Fort Erie is a town of roughly 33,000 at the southern end of the Niagara River where it flows out of Lake Erie, directly across from Buffalo, New York. It is linked to the United States by the Peace Bridge, one of the busiest Canada-US border crossings, opened in 1927. The town includes the lakeside resort community of Crystal Beach and the restored War of 1812 military site of Old Fort Erie.
Known for
- Peace Bridge crossing to Buffalo
- Crystal Beach on Lake Erie
- Old Fort Erie historic site
- Fort Erie Race Track
- War of 1812 heritage
- Niagara River and Lake Erie shoreline
Frequently asked questions
What US city is Fort Erie across the border from, and how do you cross?
Fort Erie sits directly across the Niagara River from Buffalo, New York, connected by the Peace Bridge. Opened in 1927, the Peace Bridge is one of the busiest crossings on the Canada-US border, handling both passenger cars and commercial truck traffic.
Is Crystal Beach part of Fort Erie?
Yes, Crystal Beach is a lakeside resort community within the town of Fort Erie, on the Lake Erie shore. It has long been a summer destination for its sandy beach and was once home to Crystal Beach Park, a well-known amusement park that operated until 1989.
What is Old Fort Erie?
Old Fort Erie is a restored War of 1812 military site in the town of Fort Erie, open to visitors. Known as Canada's bloodiest battlefield for the fighting during the 1814 siege, it offers guided tours and hosts an annual battle reenactment that is among the largest in Canada.
Is Fort Erie on Lake Erie or on the Niagara River?
Both, because Fort Erie sits at the southern end of the Niagara River right where it flows out of Lake Erie. That puts the town on Lake Erie's shoreline while also fronting the Niagara River directly across from Buffalo.
What is Fort Erie Race Track?
Fort Erie Race Track is the town's historic thoroughbred horse-racing venue, running live races through the warmer months. Nicknamed the 'Border Oval' for its location near the US line, it hosts the Prince of Wales Stakes, the second leg of the Canadian Triple Crown.
