Two interpreters raise their hands while riding in a canoe in the locked waterway

Go back
in time

Step into this story of cultural contact, determination and survival

Open daily until October 13

Icon of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

Welcome to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie was the headquarters for the French Jesuit Mission to the Huron-Wendat people. In 1639, the Jesuits, along with French lay workers, began construction of a palisaded community that included barracks, a church, workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. By 1648, Sainte-Marie was home to 66 French men — one-fifth of the entire population of New France. Sainte-Marie’s history ended in 1649, when members of the mission community were forced to abandon and burn their home of ten years.

A mom and young girl feed a heritage cow at Sainte-Marie

Experience Living History

Until Oct 13

This national historic site is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Your living history experience includes an introductory film, the fully-reconstructed mission, a restaurant, an indoor museum and a gift shop. We suggest allocating at least 1.5 hours for your visit. Dogs on leashes are permitted on the historic site.

A group enjoying the patio at Sainte-Marie

Restaurant Sainte-Marie

Open daily

Enjoy lunch or dinner inside the Restaurant Sainte-Marie dining room or on their beautiful patio just outside the palisade walls! With a great mix of traditional French dishes, fan favourites, and kid-friendly options, you and your guests are sure to delight in this new culinary destination at the heart of this historical attraction.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30

This free program offers space for reflection, learning, and connection, honouring the resilience of residential school survivors and the memory of those who never returned home. From a sunrise ceremony, to survivor testimonials, and interactive exhibits, each element of the day is designed to foster understanding and healing.

An image of fall gourds decorating the cookhouse at Sainte-Marie

Hometown Harvest Festival

October 11 to 13

This vibrant autumn celebration offers a rich blend of history, culture, and seasonal fun. Guests will enjoy live music, hands-on crafts, and interactive games, all set against the backdrop of the historic 17th-century site! Plus shop an extensive artisan market and meet our friendly heritage animals.

Hearth to Table: Dinner in 1648 – Special Harvest Edition!

On Saturday, October 11, join us for an indulgent celebration of the harvest season. Guests will be treated to a beautifully plated, five-course, 17th-century feast —featuring sumptuous renditions of turkey ragout, velvety pumpkin pottage, and a spiced apple tourte.

Indigenous Ingenuity banner with event and partner logos

Anishinaabewin Maamninendimowin – Indigenous Ingenuity

A travelling exhibition presented by Indigenous Tourism Ontario and Science North

Sainte-Marie is thrilled to host the Anishinaabewin Maamninendimowin: Pane Gii-Bite exhibit – also known as Indigenous Ingenuity: Timeless Inventions!

This captivating exhibit blends science, culture and fun to ignite pride in and appreciation for the incredible innovations of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.

VOTE NOW:
Ontario’s Choice Awards!

Vote for Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Discovery Harbour in the Ontario’s Choice Awards!

Sainte-Marie is up for the prize in the Top Museum category and the Top Festival category (First Light).

Discovery Harbour is nominated in the Top Small Museum category and the Top Festival category (Pumpkinferno).

Vote living history! Takes seconds, closes September 7.

Un mur de bois

Plan Your Visit

Sainte-Marie is open for daily time travel until October 13, 2025. Educational programs, group bookings, and facility rentals are also available most of the year. Special events, such as First Light, take place on select dates.

Two historical interpreters, dressed in donné costumes, to teach writing with feathers and ink

Sign up for our newsletter

Monthly updates

Sign up for our newsletter and be in the know! Get early notice about your favourite events at Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour. Pick up interesting historical facts. Hear about deals and discounts. Find out about career opportunities at Huronia Historical Parks. Learn about new activities at both historic sites.

The interior of the Brébeuf center, decorated for an event.

The perfect venue

Brébeuf Event Centre

Historic Sainte-Marie offers a fascinating backdrop to your Annual General Meeting, conference or staff retreat! Our Brébeuf Event Centre is fully equipped with a projector, screen, table and chairs for up to 100 guests, a kitchen, private entrance, coat room, and can accommodate up to 100 guests. Ample free parking onsite. Catering is available through Restaurant Sainte-Marie or book your own!

View of a couple from the back looking out over the Sainte-Marie historic site.

Buy your season passes

Valid April 1 to March 31

For just $35 tax included, season pass holders gain unlimited admission to both Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour during their visitor seasons, as well as unlimited admission to most special events, including First Light, Pumpkinferno, Pirates of the Bay, Hometown Harvest Festival and many more!

Students playing lacrosse as part of an educational program at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

Educational programs

Discover hands-on, curriculum-driven (and fun!) learning opportunities at this reconstructed 17th century Jesuit mission in the heart of Wendake. Explore half-day, full-day and digital learning experiences your students will never forget.

We’re on Instagram!

Share your adventures by tagging us and using #SainteMarieAmongTheHurons

Four images of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons: two men playing lacrosse, the blacksmith at work, some resin and birchbark, a smiling interpreter in costume