NEWS RELEASE
HURONIA HISTORICAL PARKS
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Discovery Harbour and Sainte-Marie among the Hurons are open for the summer season.
These living history museums offer visitors a captivating journey through time, welcoming guests daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
With immersive experiences, knowledgeable guides, and a chance to explore authentic historical settings, both sites promise an enriching time travel adventure for all who step through their doors. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families and history enthusiasts to delve into Canada’s past and create lasting memories.
“Huronia Historical Parks’ two premier living-history attractions offer unique, family-friendly experiences for visitors of all ages,” said Neil Lumsden, minister of tourism, culture and sport. “With new, exciting events and activities at both sites, I encourage everyone to visit Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Discovery Harbour, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind, made-in-Ontario cultural experience.”
Discovery Harbour invites visitors to uncover fascinating tales of 19th-century naval and military history. It beckons adventurers of all ages to explore the lives of sailors and soldiers who lived at what was once a remote outpost. Time travellers are sure to enjoy viewing the tall ship HMS Bee, exploring the original officer’s quarters, and taking in the hull of the HMS Tecumseth, pulled from the depths of Georgian Bay. In July and August, Discovery Harbour will also offer a treasure trove of engaging activities including black powder musket -firing demonstrations, sea shanties, and rope work.
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons offers an opportunity to step into the 17th century and discover a story of cultural contact, determination and survival. Ontario’s first European community, Sainte-Marie was the headquarters for the French Jesuit mission to the Huron-Wendat Nation. Today, guests can explore the reconstructed mission, connect with costumed historical interpreters, and enjoy fascinating historical demonstrations. The experience also includes an introductory video, indoor museum and gift shop.
“With beautiful locations on Georgian Bay and the Wye River, these historical attractions are perfect destinations for families looking for a fun day trip, history buffs hoping to immerse themselves in the past, or anyone seeking a memorable summer adventure,” says Will Baird, general manager of Huronia Historical Parks, the organization managing both attractions.
New this summer are the addition of daily guided tours in July and August. Led by historical interpreters in both English and French, these experiences offer further insights into the events and innovations that shaped the daily lives of the people stationed at these two historical locations.
Those seeking an extra dose of excitement should check out evening experiences available at both Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour in July and August. Ghost Tours, happening Saturday nights at Discovery Harbour, offer spine-tingling stories of the reportedly haunted Penetanguishene Naval and Military Establishments. Shadows and Stone, a new Thursday night experience at Sainte-Marie, invites guests to explore the historic mission by lamplight.
“It’s one thing to walk through a historic site in broad daylight, and quite another to experience the sights and sounds of the past at night,” says Baird. “These historical locations take on a new dimension in the dark.”
For guests looking to experience a little intrigue, the Bo’sun’s Brig: Escape Room at Discovery Harbour awaits. Starting May 18, this immersive experience invites guests to test their wits and unravel clues and puzzles in a race against the clock. With English sessions available seven days a week and French sessions offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, adventurers of all backgrounds can partake in this exhilarating challenge.
In addition to all of this historical fun, both sites are hosting events this summer including National Indigenous Peoples Day at Sainte-Marie on June 21, and Pirates of the Bay on Aug. 3 at Discovery Harbour.
Don’t miss your chance to experience living history this summer season. For more information and to plan your visit, please visit hhp.on.ca.
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