About Fort Anne National Historic Site
Canada's first administered National Historic Site, located in Annapolis Royal. Features a 1702 Vauban-style star fort with the oldest military building in Canada — the 1708 Powder Magazine. Museum in the Officers' Quarters, earthen walls, walking trails, and scenic views over the Annapolis River.
Features & Highlights
Detailed Information
Perched at the confluence of the Annapolis River and Allains Creek, Fort Anne National Historic Site stands as one of Canada's most historically significant locations. As the country's first administered National Historic Site, designated in 1917, this remarkable Vauban-style star fort has witnessed the struggle for North America for over 225 years — attacked or blockaded more than 19 times by Scottish, French, English, and American forces. With a 4.6-star Google rating, Fort Anne offers visitors an immersive journey through 300 years of colonial history, centered on the oldest military building in Canada — the 1708 Powder Magazine. The fort's earthen walls, museum exhibits, and sweeping views of the Annapolis River make it an essential stop for anyone exploring Nova Scotia's rich heritage.
Practical Information
Address & Location
323 St George Street, Annapolis Royal, NS B0S 1A0
Fort Anne is located in the heart of Annapolis Royal, approximately a 2-hour drive from Halifax (driving west on Highway 101). Port-Royal National Historic Site and the Melanson Settlement are nearby.
Hours of Operation
- Grounds and trails: Open year-round (no winter maintenance on trails)
- Museum and washrooms: Mid-May to Thanksgiving Day (October)
- Full experience (museum + interpretive programs): June through September
- Daily hours: 9am to 5pm during the operating season
Admission
2026: Free admission through the Canada Strong Pass (June 19 to September 7). Regular admission is via the Parks Canada fee structure. The Discovery Pass provides access to all Parks Canada sites for a full year. Special program fees may apply for guided experiences.
Amenities
- On-site parking (including bus parking)
- Electric vehicle charging station
- Wi-Fi access
- Gift shop
- Picnic areas along the Annapolis River
- Lookout points with red chairs
- Accessible parking and toilets
- First aid services
Contact
- May to September: (902) 532-2397
- October to May: (902) 532-2321
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/ns/fortanne
Plan to spend at least two hours touring the site, though it's easy to pass more time exploring the museum, walking the earthen walls, and picnicking along the Annapolis River.
Suggested Nearby Sites
Fort Anne is part of a rich cluster of historic sites in the Annapolis Valley. Combine your visit with Port-Royal National Historic Site (the 1605 French habitation reconstruction), the Melanson Settlement, and the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens — all within a short drive.
Fort Anne National Historic Site is more than just a fort — it's a window into the epic struggle for North America that shaped Canada's identity. The combination of genuine historical significance, beautiful setting, and engaging interpretation makes it an essential destination for anyone visiting Nova Scotia. Whether you're a dedicated history buff eager to trace the lines of Vauban's fortifications, a family seeking an educational outdoor adventure, or simply someone who appreciates stunning river views, Fort Anne offers an experience as rich and layered as the centuries of history embedded in its earthen walls. The free admission in 2026 makes this the perfect time to discover Canada's first National Historic Site.
