Niagara has a rich and distinguished historical past and there are many Niagara museums devoted to exploring it. Once the capital of Upper Canada, the area overflows with historic sites, churches, military forts, and architecture that are evidence of monumental historical events. Niagara history has been carefully preserved in over 20 community museums.

Niagara is one of the most important destinations for history hounds that love the War of 1812. Both Niagara-on-the-Lake, the first capital of Upper Canada, and Fort Erie were sites of great battles during this long war. Fort George and Fort Erie, destroyed during the war, have been restored so that visitors can get a taste of early 19th Century military and civilian life. Costumed staff that perform daily activities and full scale re-enactments are a favourite at each fort open spring, summer and fall.

The Bicentennial of the War of 1812 celebrates a 200 year legacy of friendship and peace between Canada and the United States. Many celebrations, re-enactments and commemorations are taking place in Niagara. Activities have already begun and will continue through the Bicentennial in 2012 to 2014.