Old Fort Erie among Niagara Parks sites offering June seniors deal

Jim Hill admits that a large percentage of the history buffs who come through Old Fort Erie are well aged.

“We do see a fair amount of retired folks who visit the fort, especially this time of year,” said Hill, senior manager of heritage and legacy for Niagara Parks.

On Wednesdays in June, people 60 and over will receive 50 per cent off admission to all Niagara Parks attractions and heritage sites, a way to recognize seniors’ month in June.

“It’s great we can provide this offer,” said Hill in an interview with Fort Erie Radio.

Part of the appeal, he expects, is that Old Fort Erie and the rest of the commission’s attractions are less busy in the spring, compared to in the heart of tourist season, July and August.

It will allow them to get a “more fulsome experience,” said Hill.

Visits to Old Fort Erie can be a bit “generational,” especially for local residents, said Hill, referring to most getting their first experience during a field trip in elementary school.

“And then 20 or 30 years later, they come through with their kids,” said Hill, adding that the next visit could also come decades later but with grandkids in tow.

Some people may have not had a chance to see the new welcome centre, which is already 14 years old. It holds a cafe that serves coffee and food, which is part of the overall experience. There are numerous displays, as well as a short video shown in the fort’s theatre before guided tours take place.

Hill said people often find that there is more to soak in than what they expected.

“You might get trapped in the 19th century a little bit longer than planned,” he quipped.

And there’s more to the site than just the War of 1812. Visitors can learn about the Underground Railroad, the Fenian Raids, and much more.

Credit: Niagara Parks

“There are so many other amazing historical events that took place in Fort Erie,” he said.

To take advantage of this offer, seniors must present valid identification at any Niagara Parks Welcome Centre or at the entrance to any participating attraction or heritage site. This offer is only available for in-person ticket purchases and cannot be applied to online sales.

More information about Niagara Parks attractions and heritage sites is available at niagaraparks.com.

Stay Informed

Events, offers, contests, and breaking news, all delivered straight to your inbox.