Doors Open Ontario presenting sponsor
Doors Open Ontario presenting sponsor

Viewing

Doors Open Ontario:

Along the Grand

in-person event information

Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For the first time, the City of Brantford, the County of Brant and Six Nations of the Grand River have come together to host Doors Open Along the Grand.

Come celebrate and explore 10-plus unique heritage buildings and sites across all three of our communities — all free of charge.

Stay in the loop with Doors Open Along the Grand and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Close


Volunteer for Doors Open Along the Grand

Do you want to volunteer for Doors Open Along the Grand?

Learn more at www.Brantford.ca/Volunteer.

Close


About our communities

City of Brantford

City of Brantford logo

Situated on the beautiful Grand River in the heart of Southwestern Ontario, Brantford has all the major amenities of a big city with the charming feel of a small town.

Sports lovers can enjoy watching Brantford Bulldogs hockey or Brantford Red Sox baseball, depending on the season. Or you can get outside for a round of golf at the Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course in the Tournament Capital of Ontario.

Outdoor adventure enthusiasts will relish in our 70 km (43.5 miles) of natural trails for hiking or biking, with the Hub of Ontario Trails connecting us to Hamilton, Cambridge, Paris and Port Dover. Pick up a paddle and escape to the Grand River, a designated Canadian Heritage River, and explore by canoe, kayak, stand-up paddle board or river raft.

Discover our heritage with a visit to the Bell Homestead National Historic Site — the place where Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1874. Then catch a show at the stunning Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts, where we have been delighting audiences for over a century.

Whether it’s for a special event, a day trip or a weekend stay, we’re excited to welcome you to Brantford, the big city with a small-town feel.

County of Brant

County of Brant logo

Located in the heart of Southern Ontario, the County of Brant is vibrant and diverse. Each community within the county has its own distinct personality — ranging from artistic charisma to outdoor adventure and country charm. Offering an exceptional quality of life, Brant provides residents and visitors with a wide array of recreational activities — from kayaking and fishing along the Grand River to scenic hiking and cycling trails that showcase the area's natural beauty.

The County is rich in arts and culture, featuring local galleries, heritage sites and community events that celebrate our creativity and history. From small-town fairs to lively music festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Paris, known as the "Prettiest Little Town in Canada" and the "Cobblestone Capital of Canada," offers stunning architecture and charming streetscapes. St. George hosts the annual St. George Applefest, a beloved local tradition. Burford, with its strong agricultural roots, embodies the County’s deep connection to farming and rural living. Throughout Brant, hamlets and towns each have their own unique charm, contributing to the County’s special character.

The County of Brant proudly celebrates the unique stories, places and people that make it a sought-after destination to live, work and play. We invite you to be a part of it!

Six Nations of the Grand River

Six Nations of the Grand River logo

The traditional homelands of the Haudenosaunee along the Grand River, Six Nations is the largest First Nations reserve in Canada by population with a wealth of history, cultural experiences and more.

History buffs will fall in love with His Majesty’s Royal Chapel of the Mohawks, located in Brantford along the banks of the Grand River. The carefully crafted stained-glass and wood panel walls tell the story of the first settlers of the Mohawk Village after the American Revolutionary War brought them out of their homelands in what is now New York State.

Chiefswood National Historic Site offers an exciting look into the lives of Indigenous people from Six Nations in the mid- to late 1800s. It was built by Chief George Johnson as a gift for his wife Emily. Explore the beautiful, wooded areas that give Chiefswood its name and learn about the writing methods of Mohawk Poetess E. Pauline Johnson. Stay in luxury accommodation at Chiefswood Park with fully winterized cabins, camping areas and glamping huts along the Grand River.

And explore the downtown core of Ohsweken and visit Indigenous-owned and -operated shops like Iroqrafts for authentic craft supplies, and Sapling and Flint for finely crafted silver jewelry. The Everything Cornhusk store and gallery showcases the talent and artistry of traditional cornhusk dolls.

Close


Contact information

15 In-person Doors Open sites

Arlington Hotel, TheDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Arlington Hotel, The

This hotel was erected by O.D. Bradford. It was, at one time, one of 17 drinking establishments in Paris. Its next owner, John Ealand, expanded the hotel, adding a yellow brick addition with Romanesque arcades. It was at this time, too, that it was renamed The Arlington. Come and explore this timeless and historical boutique hotel.

  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Site is protected by the Ontario Heritage Trust
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

106 Grand River Street North
Paris, Ontario
Email: kviskantas@arlingtonhotel.ca
https://www.arlingtonhotel.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1851
Building type: Historical landmark
Architect: O.D. Bradford

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Bell Homestead National Historic SiteDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Bell Homestead National Historic Site

This restored home was the first Canadian home of Alexander Graham Bell. It provided the stage for the invention of the telephone in 1874. See how the Bell family lived and worked. You will also learn about how Bell invented the telephone. Explore how telephones have changed since. And see what activities and special events are available throughout the year.

  • Food vendors
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • National Historic Site (Canada)
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Site has blue and gold provincial plaque
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

94 Tutela Heights Road
Brantford, Ontario
http://bellhomestead.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1858
Building type: Historical house Museum
Architect: Robert Morton

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Brantford and Area Sports Hall of RecognitionDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Brantford and Area Sports Hall of Recognition

Brantford has a rich sport history. Come and explore this hall of fame, which proudly recognizes hometown heroes — from local athletes to those in supporting roles. Explore features such as inductee artifact and memorabilia displays, a wall of recognition, an interactive inductee touch-screen zone, a trivia game and broadcast booth as well as a mini-theatre and Wayne Gretzky tribute area.

  • Food vendors
  • Full wheelchair access
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

254 North Park Street
Brantford, Ontario
https://www.brantfordareasportshall.ca

Architecture

Year built: 2014
Building type: Museum Sports facility

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Brantford Flight CentreDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Brantford Flight Centre

Since 1929, the Brantford Flying Club has been providing quality flight training. One of the oldest flight training schools in Canada, they have successfully helped thousands of students get their pilot licences over the years. With a busy restaurant and sightseeing flights available seven days a week, the airport is a must-see destination in Brantford.

  • Adaptive reuse
  • Food vendors
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

110 Aviation Avenue
Brantford, Ontario
https://www.flybfc.com

Architecture

Year built: 1940
Building type: Transportation

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Brantford Greenhouses, Parks & Recreation Operations FacilityDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Brantford Greenhouses, Parks & Recreation Operations Facility

Brantford’s Parks & Recreation Department has a storied history of horticultural excellence, which has long been a source of community pride. For 75 years, these greenhouses have played an integral part of the city's horticulture operations, program and reputation — providing approximately 500,000 plants annually that are used in horticultural displays, annual and perennial beds, and community gardens throughout the city.

  • Adaptive reuse
  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

1 Sherwood Drive
Brantford, Ontario
https://www.brantford.ca/en/things-to-do/horticulture-program.aspx

Architecture

Year built: 1950
Building type: Government building

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Brantford Public Library, Main BranchDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Brantford Public Library, Main Branch

In 1992, the main branch of the Brantford Public Library moved into this former department store. Today, the busy, three-storey location offers approximately 5,600 square metres for visitors (60,000 square feet) — featuring a local history room, a makerspace, children and youth areas, and multiple murals. Staff will offer tours and activities that showcase the library’s history and its many resources.

  • Adaptive reuse
  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

173 Colborne Street
Brantford, Ontario
https://www.brantfordlibrary.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1992
Building type: Commercial Library
Architect: Moffat Kinoshita Associates Inc.

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Chiefswood National Historic SiteDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Chiefswood National Historic Site

Chiefswood was given by Mohawk Chief George Johnson as a wedding present for his English bride Emily Howells. It was also the birthplace and childhood home of famous Mohawk poetess E. Pauline Johnson, who travelled throughout Canada celebrating her Mohawk heritage. Chiefswood offers a glimpse at the lives of the Johnson family, and life on Six Nations in the mid-1800s.

  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Site has blue and gold provincial plaque
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

1037 Highway 54
Ohsweken, Ontario
Email: SNTMPC@Sixnations.ca
https://chiefswoodnhs.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1853
Building type: Historical house
Architect: Chief George Johnson

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Creek View Acres Nursery & OrchardDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Creek View Acres Nursery & Orchard

Creek View Acres is home to a growing nursery and orchard. The farmhouse was built in 1902 and is of simplified Italianate architecture featuring original large glass windows. The main barn foundation dates back to 1880. The property features a mixed orchard and a professionally landscaped botanical garden. A historical walking tour uses landmarks to tell the stories.

  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

400 Johnson Road
Brantford, Ontario
Email: office@400johnson.ca
http://creekviewacresbrant.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1902
Building type: Farm
Architect: John Sargent (builder)

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Former Cockshutt Moulded Aircraft FactoryDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Former Cockshutt Moulded Aircraft Factory

The Cockshutt Aircraft Division, formed early in the Second World War, supplied critical military aircraft parts. This building was specially constructed to produce airplane fuselages. Since the war, this building has continued to house manufacturing operations. During Doors Open, join hosts Vince Capotorto (the current owner) and the Canadian Industrial Heritage Centre and view interpretive displays and historical artifacts.

  • Adaptive reuse
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

148 Mohawk Street
Brantford, Ontario

Architecture

Year built: 1942
Building type: Commercial

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

His Majesty's Royal Chapel of the MohawksDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

His Majesty's Royal Chapel of the Mohawks

His Majesty’s Royal Chapel of the Mohawks is the last surviving building of the Mohawk Village and the oldest surviving Protestant church in Canada. The chapel features eight stained-glass windows that tell the history of the Six Nations people. They continue to hold special services here — like Easter, Thanksgiving, Indigenous People's Day and Christmas. They can also host weddings.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Site has blue and gold provincial plaque
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

301 Mohawk Street
Brantford, Ontario
Email: SNTMPC@sixnations.ca
http://www.mohawkchapel.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1785
Building type: Cemetery Place of worship

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Onondaga Community HallDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Onondaga Community Hall

Built in 1874, this Italianate-style building was designed by John Turner, a well-known architect who created several buildings throughout Southwestern Ontario. The hall has served as a focal point and hive of activity in the Onondaga community, including as a school for two years and a council chamber until 1976. In 2016, it was designated under the Ontario Heritage Act.

  • Adaptive reuse
  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Site is protected by the Ontario Heritage Trust
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

42 Brantford Street
Onondaga, Ontario
Email: onondagaonthegrand@outlook.com
https://www.facebook.com/onondagaonthegrand

Architecture

Year built: 1874
Building type: Historical landmark
Architect: John Turner

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Salt Springs ChurchDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Salt Springs Church

A Methodist mission was established here in 1822, attracting both white settlers and Indigenous residents. In 1830, a wooden structure was built. Over time, the congregation grew and a brick building replaced the wooden one in 1860. The current structure dates from 1902. Of interest is the simple wooden furniture and the adjacent cemetery (containing many early settlers).

  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

61 Salt Springs Church Road
Brantford, Ontario
https://images.ourontario.ca/brant/227/exhibit/1

Architecture

Year built: 1822; 1860; 1902
Building type: Cemetery Historical landmark Place of worship
Architect: L. Taylor (current structure)

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

St. George Walking TourDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

St. George Walking Tour

The original Howell Block was a series of wooden frame buildings with businesses, replaced by Jonathan Howell in 1891 with stone buildings that were remodelled into a community hall in 1925. In 2006, a plaque was unveiled recognizing war veterans. For Doors Open, take a tour of St. George Memorial Hall or enjoy a walking tour of this community.

  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

Meet at 36 Main Street South
St. George, Ontario
https://www.southdumfrieshistory.ca

Architecture

Year built: Various

Architect: Various

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

St. Paul's ChapelDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario
St. Paul's Chapel

St. Paul's Chapel is a rare board-and-batten landmark in the Village of Middleport. Its tower is furnished with a bell — which tolls to this day — cast in New York by Nemeely-Kimberly. The chapel itself, within a cemetery nestled on the banks of the Grand River, offers a remarkable heritage legacy of past generations and beautiful natural vistas.

  • Adaptive reuse
  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

1159 Highway 54
Caledonia, Ontario

Architecture

Year built: 1868
Building type: Cemetery Historical landmark
Architect: attributed to John Turner

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10

Woodland Cultural CentreDoors Open Along the Grand

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Woodland Cultural Centre

The Woodland Cultural Centre was established in 1972 by the Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians on the closure of the Mohawk Institute Residential School. Their focus began with research and artifacts, expanding to include art in 1975 and a language program in 1984. With over 50,000 artifacts, it is one of the largest Canadian facilities managed by First Nations.

  • Adaptive reuse
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • National Historic Site (Canada)
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Site has blue and gold provincial plaque
  • Site is protected by the Ontario Heritage Trust
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

184 Mohawk Street
Brantford, Ontario
Email: tkelley@woodlandculturalcentre.ca
https://woodlandculturalcentre.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1831
Building type: Museum
Architect: Unknown

Dates/hours open

May 10 - May 10