Doors Open St. Catharines offers rare public access to 19 historic buildings June 13

Residents and tourists are invited to explore historic and architecturally significant buildings on Saturday, June 13 during Doors Open St. Catharines.

The 19 participating organizations include the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre, and Brock University’s Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts. Significant heritage sites will also be open, including Lake Street Armoury, The Brown Homestead, Ridley College, and Niagara Memorial Masonic Temple Association. The event takes place as St. Catharines proudly marks its 150^th anniversary as a City in 2026.

“Doors Open St. Catharines invites people to connect with the city in a new way – by exploring the buildings, landmarks, and places that reflect our rich shared history and community identity,” said Carla Mackie, Historical Services Coordinator. “The event celebrates the people and stories that have shaped over city over generations.”

Eight places of worship will participate, including Knox Presbyterian Church, Royal House Redeemed Christian Church of God, Salem Chapel – British Methodist Episcopal Church, St. Barnabas Anglican Church, St. George’s Anglican Church, St. Ignatius of Antioch Antiochian Orthodox Church, St. Thomas’ Anglican Church, and Sts. Cyril and Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church. Many will hold special events, such as organist and choir performances, exhibits, tour talks, and hymns in Byzantine chant.

THK Rhythm Automotive Canada will also open its doors, as will Niagara Region – Decew Water Works, and Ontario Power Generation – Decew Generating Station No. 1, which both require pre-registration. Pre-registration is also required for the resident-led Power Glen Valley Walking Tour, and for the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre – Yates Street Heritage Architecture Walking Tour.

All locations and tours are free, with most locations open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please check individual tour details, as some have limited space. Check our Doors Open St. Catharines webpage at stcatharines.ca/DoorsOpen for more information.

Photo: A stained-glass window in Knox Presbyterian Church.