Deux interprètes historiques habillés en costumes de donnés voyages en canoe le long du canal de Sainte-Marie-au-pays-des-Hurons

Go back
in time

Step into this story of cultural contact, determination and survival

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 historical interpreter offering a guided tour

April guided tours

April 1 to 26

Join an exclusive, small-group tour led by one of our most seasoned historical interpreters this spring—before we are officially open! Tours include a pre-determined route through the historic site, our fascinating introductory film as well as access to the Restaurant, Museum and Gift Shop.

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

Daily time travel

May 3 to October 13

This national historic site will be open for daily time travel from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting May 3. 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.

Hope, a costumed interpreter at Sainte-marie, entertaining a group of students outside of the main entrance wigwam

Educational programs

Book your field trip

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. School and community group visits available from April to October. Winter programs offered from January to mid-March.

A mosaic of photos of kids having fun at camp with the Summer Science Camp logo on top

Science North at Sainte-Marie

July 7-11, 14-18 & 21-25

Since 1987, Science North has been delivering summer science camp experiences to children in communities across Ontario. This summer, these fantastic camps are coming to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons! Science North offers children the opportunity to get hands-on with real tools, engage in modern science, and most importantly, have fun with friends!

Restaurant Sainte-Marie

Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner inside the Restaurant Sainte-Marie dining room, or book your own personal snow globe or snow crystal for 2 to 10 people! 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.

Un mur de bois

Plan Your Visit

Sainte-Marie will reopen for daily time travel in early May 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.

Deux interprètes historiques, habillés en costumes de donné, à enseigner l'écriture avec des plumes et de l'encre

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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.

L'intérieur du centre Brébeuf, décoré pour un evenement.

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!

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!

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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