Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 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. This community was abandoned and burned down in 1649.

After extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s compelling story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters and activities. Learn about the lifestyle of early Europeans in Canada through self-guided visits, group tours, interactive education programs, and special events. Complete your experience by exploring our interpretive museum and themed gift shop.

Hours and admission rates

• Open from early May to Thanksgiving weekend every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Admission rates vary by date, but range from $10 to $15 per person, taxes included. Children five and under are free!
• Be sure to check out special events that happen at Sainte-Marie all year round including First Light in late November/early December, as well as Adventures in Time Travel over march break

What's included in your admission

• Access the fully reconstructed mission community of Sainte-Marie
• Watch an introductory video on the story of the historic mission headquarters
• Connect with friendly and knowledgeable costumed historical interpreters (limited during self-guided season)
• Visit the Church of Saint-Joseph, where the graves of Canadian Martyrs Father Jean de Brébeuf and Gabriel Lalemant are located
• Learn the story of Sainte-Marie with a free audio tour, accessible through the Huronia Historical Parks app
• Meet our friendly farm animals in the stables
• View some of North America's oldest stone masonry
• Experience our award-winning interactive indoor museum
• Shop for gifts and souvenirs in our retail store, Flint & Timber Co.
• Discover culinary delights at Restaurant Sainte-Marie
• Free same-day admission to the Martyrs Shrine (proof of purchase required)

*Guided tours available for an additional $5 per person.