Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
4.5
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Welcome to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, a magical place on the edge of a continent where past and present come together to celebrate Canada’s diverse heritage. Please note that we have three seasons throughout the year:
Low season
Opportunities to experience the Fortress of Louisbourg's quiet streets during the low season allow visitors to imagine life in the toughest of conditions almost 300 years ago. While there are no services available, a low season visit may provide the best opportunity for visitors to experience the stillness of the streets, take in the beauty of the exterior architecture of the buildings, or simply enjoy the treasures that life's quietest moments may bring.
For a new way to experience the site in the low season, try our Explora app. Through sound, video, photos, quizzes and text, you will hold stories about Louisbourg in your hands as you walk through both the reconstructed town and the fortress's ruins. Explora is available to download for free at the App Store and through Google Play.
Shoulder season
For those seeking quiet opportunities and some on-site services, visiting during the shoulder season is recommended. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy an inspiring setting with beautiful visuals as they stand on our history-laden grounds. Several buildings with exhibits are open for you to discover. Explore the site on your own or embark on an Explora tour of the grounds. To enhance your visit you may purchase a guided tour or participate in the Time Travel program. Accessible guided tours are available as well. We recommend reserving a place on these tours in advance.
By the end of June, the site will begin to fill with costumed interpreters as we ramp up for peak season. After Labour Day, the Fortress of Louisbourg winds down once again with costumed animators interpreting some buildings into September. No matter the season, be sure to find out from reception what activities and experiences may be on offer that day.
Peak Season
Peak season brings a different kind of magic on-site as costumed people add life to the streets and the homes. A foggy day cloaks the site in mystery and creates scenes and images not to be forgotten. A cold day with wind and rain may draw visitors to the warmth of a welcoming fire or to the cozy inn for a warming bowl of soup. A hot day shows the town and its various gardens at their brightest. On summer feast days colour and pageantry break the routine of daily life as the townspeople promenade in their finery. Chores are the order of the day on summer and fall mornings. With the rooster's crow comes bread from the ovens that supplies both soldiers and hungry visitors.
Louisbourg's inhabitants are happy to share their stories, and can be found working the forge, tending the gardens and running the kitchens. The beat of drums and the chime of the garrison clock order the soldiers' day. The sound of a cannon marks midday. You can even fire a cannon or musket yourself by taking part in our 'Have a Blast' or 'Have a Ball' programs. Music might be heard from a waterfront tavern. Children play games in the streets, while the sentry at the gate challenges those who wish to enter the walled town. A public punishment gathers spectators. Sheep run through the streets, called home by the stable hand. Each hour offers something unique and real.
During the peak season you can immerse yourself in an 18th century dining experience, available daily, at the Hotel de la Marine and Grandchamp House. For those who prefer a modern experience L'Epee Royale Cafe offers a cozy stop for hot and cold beverages and a variety of pastries. Groups can pre-arrange a dining experience by calling 902-733-3552. The daily fare varies with the season. Please check in advance for menu options and our ability to accommodate any special dietary requirements.
Hours of Operation
Low season: October 11, 2016 - May 21, 2017)
Open Monday to Friday (except statutory holidays)
9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Shoulder Season: May 22 2017 to June 30 2017 and September 5 2017 to October 9, 2017
Open 7 days per week
9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Peak Season: July 1 - September 4
Open 7 days per week
9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Dining Establishment Hours of Operation
Grandchamp House Lower class
(Less formal dining) July 1 - August 25
(Doors open at 10:30 a.m.)
Hotel de la Marine Upper class
(More formal dining) July 1 - August 25
(Doors open at 11 a.m.)
Hotel de la Marine Lower class
(Less formal dining) August 26 - October 9 2017
(Doors open at 10:30 a.m.)
L'Epee Royale Cafe May 22 - October 9 2017
(Doors open at 10 a.m.)
When the Fortress of Louisbourg is in low season, programs and services are provided through the Fortress Louisbourg Association after-hours programs.
Whether it's the bustling street or the solitude of the shore, a visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg offers many opportunities for memorable experiences.
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- Esther PChicago, Illinois1,402 contributionsExcellent experiencePlan to spend at least 4 hours here. Go into every house and talk with the costumed docents /characters and learn about their life in the fortress. I especially enjoyed visiting with members of the First Nations Micmaw people and spent a considerable amount of time with them learning about their history and traditions. Be sure to also visit the building which has photos of the development of the archaeological site. It will give you an appreciation for the work Parks Canada does. Restaurant and snack shop is available.Visited June 2023Written July 6, 2023
- fffearlessHalifax, Canada30 contributionsa must see!Really enjoyed the our visit to Louisburg despite the fog, mist and cold. We took the 45 minute guided tour and it was EXCELLENT! He was an awesome guide!!!! We learned a lot and we were so glad we took it! It has been many years since I have been to Louisburg and was so pleased to see the increase in diversity and the inclusion of the indigneous story of the land and the people. My only disappointment was in the sit down restaurant that we ate at. The food was good but I thought it would be more in period with the staff acting in character. One of the servers that initially looked after us, you could tell was just not into working. We asked for info on an ingredient in a menu item for allergies. She left to find out and then never came back. She was then assigned to a large table of people and you could tell she was very annoyed to be given a large table of guests. They also seemed to have trouble managing the people coming to the door where it was roped off. As a guest, it was hard to tell if they were closed or open or just not taking anymore clients as they took a very long time to acknowledge the guests. Since you are standing outside in the cold and mist - not ideal. This could all be due to staff shortages, which I understand but thought the feedback might be helpful.Visited July 2023Written July 12, 2023
- Fanny FBurlington, Canada11 contributionsAmazing experience!!!Amazing costumed interpreters, wonderful period village and fortress. 3 hours was not enough to explore. We learned so much and enjoyed it despite the pouring rain. A truely impressive attraction. If you like history don't skip this!Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten July 17, 2023
- Lorrie FToronto, Canada403 contributionsExcellent experience and must see location!Unfortunately it was quite foggy, but still warm and well worth the visit no matter what! Such an amazing and fascinating historical site to visit, go into all the buildings and talk to all the people who have so many stories to tell of the history of the location and how the folks lived back in that time period. Just an amazing place and experience!Visited July 2023Written July 17, 2023
- jeep_girl_00St. John's, Canada577 contributionsJourney Back in TimeThe Fortress of Louisbourg offers a captivating journey back in time. The authenticity and attention to detail in recreating an 18th-century fortified town are impressive. The costumed interpreters and restored buildings bring history to life. Breathtaking views add to the allure. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking Canada's rich heritage. Don't forget comfortable footwear and take a photo of the map for exploring. Overall, a truly memorable experience. (Shuttle is every 15 minutes)Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten July 21, 2023
- Candice S3 contributionsWonderful historical experienceAmazing value for the money! We thoroughly enjoyed visiting all the houses, talking with the interpreters, and participating in a reconstruction of a public punishment. We paid for a one hour motorized tour, which provided a great overview of the history of the area and fortress (thank you, Alice!). You could easily spend 4+ hours here.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten July 22, 2023
- localcanadian793Halifax, Canada127 contributionsAmazing day spent!Absolutely amazing time spent here! We have two teens and weren’t sure what their reaction would be but they had such a great time! We opted not to do a tour and instead explored on our own, and we got to spend a total of 4 hours walking around, chatting with the “residents” and learning about the history of the fortress town. We are at one of the restaurants, which was a bit pricey (to add bacon to your burger they charge $4 and you only get one slice of bacon cut in half). Definitely plan to see the moon cannon and gun fire “show”. It’s incredible!Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten July 27, 2023
- Marcus MHalifax, Canada6 contributionsMore than a museumMore than just a fortress, Louisbourg is an actual walled town positioned on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. It has roads, a stunning chapel, houses and gardens and offers much to see and do. The staff are knowledgeable and attentive and the entire site is just so beautiful as is the surrounding area.Visited August 2023Written August 7, 2023
- Karen FChokoloskee, Florida193 contributionsA must visitWe have been to many historical sites all over this continent, and this is one of the finest. They’re a constant reenactments going on, and I have been thoroughly impressed with how well educated the rain actors are. The revitalization of this fortress was sponsored by the government in the 1960s to supply jobs for the locals as the mining Industry was Slowing in this area. There are numerous displays of the rebuilding of this for it and it appeared to me like many of the characters more involved in different phases of the rebuilding of this fortification. Yes, you must go see this.Visited August 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten August 11, 2023
- musicman1961208 contributionsImpressiveThe welcome center is excellent as you get a good background history. Beautiful building and great staff. Then you take a shuttle bus down to the fortress which is huge. If you can catch some events it will be interesting. Otherwise, you're basically walking around outside. If the weather is bad I'd say don't do it.Visited August 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten August 14, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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2,217 reviews
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World_travellor79
Sudbury, Canada171 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
First time ever going to a French fort! I'm a history lover and for many years have seen American forts, British forts, and historical locations in Great Britain and Canada. But this was a first for me. Well worth it doing the tours. The guide had plenty of knowledge and made the experience very enjoyable. The kids had a great time learning about history and see what / how people lived many years ago.
Written March 12, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KK78
Bay Shore, NY730 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
A little out of the way, but it was a nice stop during a long day of driving. It was a sunny day, which made walking around the fortress even nicer - I wouldn't recommend on a rainy day. The history of the fortress is very interesting. I'm sure kids would love the character actors.
Written October 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
roaming_kiwi58
Christchurch, New Zealand2,827 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
We did a tour from our cruise ship, which was docked in Sydney, to the Louisbourg Fortress. The drive from Sydney to the fortress was about 40 minutes on a coach. We had a guide with us, but had trouble hearing him so we went off on our own and just wandered. It is quite an extensive site and there is plenty to see. Bear in mind it is a reconstruction of part of the original fortress. About 11.45am they fire the cannon in the main courtyard.
This is probably one of the more worthwhile trips to do from Sydney. It is worth seeing.
This is probably one of the more worthwhile trips to do from Sydney. It is worth seeing.
Written October 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BobN06
Avondale, PA616 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Fantastic recreation of a small but instrumental part of Cape Breton and colonial history. The buildings have been faithfully recreated and tours are given in the manner of the time. We thought we might spend an hour or two but were here for over 6 hours exploring the buildings and taking a couple of tours. Highly recommend the tours - they are all informative and give you are great overview.
Written October 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jamie H-D
Poole, UK696 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
Free entry with a Parks Canada Pass to this fantastic reconstructed historic site, it is huge with SO much going on, even in shoulder season every building you go in has something happening.
We decided to pay a bit extra to have a tour which included the firing of a rifle and an original style hot chocolate in the kitchen area, it was well worth the money.
You really need to spend a good few hours here to make the very most of your time and to experience everything possible. All of the staff and actors were brilliant, so professional, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, we really enjoyed our time here.
A must do if you are in the area, we didn’t know just how much this area had an impact on Nova Scotia and the world from 1744.
We decided to pay a bit extra to have a tour which included the firing of a rifle and an original style hot chocolate in the kitchen area, it was well worth the money.
You really need to spend a good few hours here to make the very most of your time and to experience everything possible. All of the staff and actors were brilliant, so professional, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, we really enjoyed our time here.
A must do if you are in the area, we didn’t know just how much this area had an impact on Nova Scotia and the world from 1744.
Written October 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Deborahjune
Toronto, Canada715 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
Really interesting historic place to visit. Its a world treasure and has been wonderfully restored. Excellent time spent here and would highly recommend seeing it.
Written October 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
anne d
6 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
history fans are certain to love this whole experience. My husband an I spent a whole day there and cant wait to return!
Written October 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
eVe 🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬
Singapore, Singapore802 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
We arrived at Fortress of Louisbourg at opening hour of 9.30am and was greeted at the gate by a young guide. She presented a short history of this historic site and highlighted buildings of interests. Thereafter, we were free to roam the place on our own. I particularly liked those guides who dressed in period costume which enabled them to bring alive their presentation.
Written October 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CultureVulture60657
Chicago, IL10,470 contributions
Sept 2023 • Friends
I've wanted to visit Louisbourg for years; it did not disappoint. It operates in a similar way to Williamsburg, Virginia: you stroll around, ducking into doorways and encounter costumed interpreters who play the roles of historic personages from the 18th Century who lived there. They demonstrate their crafts and tell you about their lives. They happily answer questions and engage with you. It's picturesque, historically accurate, entertaining and informative. The reconstructed buildings, which are only about 25% of the original site, contain exhibits and period furnishings, giving a good picture of what life may have been like for the people centuries ago.
Plan to spend at least 3 hours there.
Plan to spend at least 3 hours there.
Written September 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Trevor R
5 contributions
Sept 2023 • Family
This was alovely thing to do. Enjoyed the whoel experience. Very interesting! All round good experience!
Written September 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lynne J
11 contributions
We will be visiting the Fortress in October this year and wondered if everything will be open and the actors in costume / role??
seatourist
Seattle, WA46 contributions
I had the same question before we left - I referred to the website, which shows dates for all levels of activities and participation by actors. I also realized through speaking with other tourists on-site that it is highly advised to do so since last-minute closures are possible for a variety of reasons (including weather, I believe). Check the website before going, but it is a remarkable place and worth the visit!
lettylake
San Francisco, CA25 contributions
We will be visiting the Fortress in September and will take an excursion off the ship. Which is a better time of day for the excursion: 8 to 11:30 or 12 to 3:30? Thanks.
Canuck2017
Cheticamp34 contributions
I would go in the later one. It may be busier but that's relative, you won't have crowds like you would in New York or London.
First, based on the weather forecast, early afternoon will likely be nice and warm... eight a.m. is cool along the ocean...only a few feet away. And, the food experience, if it is still available, is worth an extra few minutes.
MICHEL D
56 contributions
Bonjour, quelle attraction est annulé lorsqu'il y a de fortes averses de pluie ?
Sandra P
Melbourne, Australia68 contributions
What is the best way to visit the fortress from cruise port
dixiefowler
Lethbridge, Canada63 contributions
Your cruise ship will have escorted tours to the Fortress, and probably is the easiest way to see it. Alternatively, you can walk off the ship and be in the middle of town where you may be able to find a car rental agency. I would google rental agencies prior to departing on the cruise.
Terri1964_12
St. Marys, Canada1 contribution
Do they have wheelchairs
Martin B
St. Stephen, Canada30 contributions
Sorry for such a long delay. Yes, they do have wheel chair access.
bevwilliment
Winnipeg, Canada
Is it open Sept 7 2018
Renee T
St. Albert, Canada275 contributions
The Louisbourg website has their hours and costs. Check there first before going.
VJMT
Lewistown, MT
Hi, VJMT. What would you like to know about this attraction? We are taking a cruise and stopping off at Sydney! We are looking at best excursion in the area and Fortress of Louisberg was recommended. Do you agree? How would you recommend getting from ship to site. There are ship tours but thought we could tour on our own. Is there taxi, uber, or would you just recommend taking tour bus there for $95.00. Thank you
paullevin
Scottsdale, AZ169 contributions
The transportation is the issue. A rental car is likely best as it will be a 45 minute drive. The Fort has several tours you can take dependent on the time you arrive and how much in depth you want to get into the historical facts.
Stephanie C
Philadelphia, PA2 contributions
We will be in Sydney on June 13, 2018. Will there be costumed narrators around? I'm considering renting a car so we can spend more time at the fort as I heard the cruise ship excursion on allows about 1.5 hours at the Fort.
merrmat
Grande Prairie, Canada76 contributions
I think I should be ok
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Claim your listingFortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
- Hotels near Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site:
- (2.36 km) North Star Beach Suites
- (2.27 km) Cranberry Cove Inn
- (2.98 km) Louisbourg Harbour Inn
- (2.92 km) Louisbourg Heritage House Bed & Breakfast
- (2.33 km) Pecks Cottages
- Restaurants near Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site:
- (0.12 km) Grandchamps Restaurant
- (2.25 km) The Bothy
- (2.91 km) Spoondrift Cafe
- (2.85 km) Foggy Hermit Cafe
- (2.39 km) Point of View
- Attractions near Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site:
- (3.88 km) Louisbourg Lighthouse
- (1.64 km) Kennington Cove Beach
- (3.07 km) Louisbourg Playhouse
- (3.88 km) Louisbourg Lighthouse Coastal Trail
- (2.76 km) Stella Maris Rectory