Doors Open: Explore Belleville For Free on Sept 13

Belleville, located on the north shore of the Bay of Quinte, is hosting its annual “Doors Open” event this Saturday, providing free access to a diverse array of sites across the city.

Credit: Heritage Belleville

Sponsored by Heritage Belleville, this initiative has been a staple since 2002 and is held in collaboration with the Heritage Trust and Doors Open Ontario.

Fourteen sites across the city, as well as in nearby Prince Edward County, are inviting the public inside for a free day of exploration on Saturday, September 13, 2025.

Among the highlights is Belleville City Hall, a landmark built in 1872–73 by architect John D. Evans. With its tall clock tower, it has watched over downtown for more than 150 years.

The Belleville Fire Station No. 1, completed in 2015, blends modern emergency services with history through its attached museum and Firefighter Memorial Rose Garden, unveiled on September 11, 2022.

Ameliasburgh Heritage Village offers an immersive look into the past with its museum complex featuring a range of historical buildings, including a blacksmith shop, a carpenter’s shop, and more. Visitors can enjoy a special talk about the DeVries Natural Heritage Collection during their visit.

Military history is preserved at the Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment Museum, located inside the 1908 Armoury.

Other stops include the Belleville Masonic Temple (1950), Glanmore National Historic Site (1883), and the Army, Navy and Air Force Duke of Edinburgh Unit 201, in operation locally since 1932.

Heritage takes a different form at the Mission Thrift Store, and Meyers Creek Brewing Company, which offers a glimpse into the history of their 1884 building through their taproom and tours.

The Parrott Riverfront Trail offers a scenic walking path along the Moira River, showcasing Belleville’s commitment to preserving and enhancing its natural and historical landscapes.

Cultural and community spaces are also opening their doors: the Islamic Society of Belleville, We Thrive Wellness Centre, and Zone Athletics, home to Pegasus Cheer Athletics.

Locations and Timings – September 13, 2025:

Ameliasburgh Heritage Village: 517 County Road 19, Noon to 4 p.m.
Army, Navy and Air Force Duke of Edinburgh: 187 Front Street, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Belleville City Hall: 169 Front Street, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Belleville Fire Station #1: 60 Bettes Street, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Belleville Masonic Temple: 132 Foster Avenue, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Corby Park Rose Garden: 210 Ann Street, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Glanmore National Historic Site: 257 Bridge Street East, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment Museum: 189 Pinnacle Street, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Islamic Society of Belleville: 33 Moira Street West, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Meyers Creek Brewing: 60 Dundas Street East, 10 a.m. to Noon (brewery production tours; maximum of five people)
Mission Thrift Store: 315 Pinnacle Street, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; guided tours on the hour
Parrott Riverfront Trail: Start at the corner of Front and Station streets (9 Station Street), 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
We Thrive Wellness Centre: 161 Front Street, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Zone Athletics (Home of Pegasus Cheer Athletics): 1989 Old Highway 2, all day.