Constructed in 1880, this building was Niagara's first telephone exchange. In 2015, it was transformed into a brewery but retains some of its original features. Original hemlock floor joists became the second-floor bar and tabletops. Some nods to the building's use as a telephone exchange include brewing numbers (instead of names) and a tasting board shaped like a rotary dial.

Grace United Church was designed by William Thomas — the same architect who designed Toronto’s St. Michael’s Cathedral, Hamilton’s St. Paul’s Presbyterian and Brock’s Monument in Queenston. The magnificent stained-glass windows memorialize early church members and wartime casualties, and the interior reflects the classic Methodist form of practical design. In 2023, the Grace United congregation celebrated its 200th anniversary.

Step inside the restored home of publisher, rebellion leader and Toronto’s first mayor, William Lyon Mackenzie. Get hands-on with a working linotype and other operating heritage presses. Don’t miss the rare Louis Roy Press, the oldest printing press in Canada and one of the few original wooden presses remaining in the world! Limited parking. Interior accessible by stairs only. No bathroom available.

In 1765, British naval craftsmen began erecting buildings that would come to be known as Navy Hall, a key supply facility for British forts on the upper Great Lakes. In 1792, Lieutenant Governor Simcoe converted a building into his residence, which later served as an officers' dining hall. After the War of 1812, the British rebuilt some buildings, one of which one survives today. 

Step through these doors and see how pharmacists practised their profession over 100 years ago. The apothecary opened in the late 1860s at this location and closed in 1964. The Ontario Heritage Trust acquired the property, led its restoration and opened it as a museum in 1971. Operated by volunteers from the Ontario College of Pharmacists.

The Niagara Lodge No. 2 is the oldest Masonic lodge in Ontario. It is also the site of the first legislature of Upper Canada and the site of the first hospital in Newark, founded by Col. John Butler. During Doors Open, come and explore the museum of Masonic artifacts not regularly available to the general public.

Located on the banks of the Niagara River in a heritage building that formerly supplied water to Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre connects the community through visual arts programs, exhibitions and events. The Niagara Pumphouse Art Centre Association was formed in 1990, and the building was restored and converted to this visual arts centre in 1994.

Founded in 1877, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Lawn Bowling Club is one of the oldest in Canada. Before this club was built, they bowled on the grounds of the Queen’s Royal Hotel. Today, they are located at the adjacent community centre, where visitors can learn more by stopping by the Mori and Simpson rooms during Doors Open.

The Niagara Historical Society opened this museum in 1907. It collects, preserves, researches, educates and promotes the history of Niagara-on-the-Lake and area — inspiring a local history appreciation through engaging programs and exhibitions. During Doors Open, there will be pop-up curator-led tours of the exhibits and heritage baking samples. Visitors can also explore the latest exhibition, Curators: Our Eras Tour.

The Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery is a timeless Niagara destination for award-winning wines and world-class farm-to-table cuisine. It is steeped in history, family legacy and agricultural heritage. Situated in the heart of St. Davids, this charming and historical property offers a unique escape from the everyday hustle and bustle while being conveniently located only minutes from the Queen Elizabeth Way.

The RiverBrink Art Museum is a fine-art museum, open since 1983, featuring changing exhibitions from the renowned art collection of lawyer Samuel E. Weir (the museum is his former home), as well as outstanding works on loan from contemporary artists and Canadian and international collections. Exhibitions change throughout the year. There is also a library and gift shop onsite.

With 856 seats, this is the Shaw Festival's largest venue. Built in the modernist style, it was designed to provide a spacious yet intimate audience experience. While touring backstage, you will hear stories from docents about the history of the theatre, the ensemble and secrets of the 2026 season. Come and learn about the importance of real human connection.

The original 1794 church was burned by the American army during the War of 1812. A new church was later erected, but was also destroyed by a cyclone. In 1855, the current building was constructed. While major restorations have occurred over the years, the interior and exterior of this architectural gem appear much the same as the 1831 building.

St. Mark's is the oldest Anglican church in continuous use in Ontario. Completed in 1804, it was damaged in the War of 1912. The original balconies necessitated the unusual high pulpits. The 1840 East Window is the oldest stained glass in the province and, with the other windows, form the finest collection of stained glass in Ontario.

Founded in 1826 and celebrating the 200th anniversary, this is the oldest Catholic church building in continuous use for worship in Ontario. From humble beginnings in homes and makeshift chapels, to the construction or this beloved church and its ongoing restoration, St Vincent de Paul has remained a sanctuary for worship, education and gatherings for all who seek comfort, purpose and community.

Come and visit this beautiful national historic site, Willowbank, which was built in 1834-36 in the Greek classical revival style. Since 2006, Willowbank has been home to the School of Restoration Arts. The school’s Heritage Conservation diploma program has trained students in the theory and practice of this unique field, helping shape a new generation of heritage conservation leaders.