Doors Open Ontario began in 2002 as a means of connecting people to place by facilitating public access to compelling built and natural heritage sites that typically restrict regular access to the public and to ensure that Ontario’s diverse heritage would be free to access by individuals and families of all socioeconomic backgrounds without the barrier of cost. Since then, its tangible impacts have been substantial: 8.6 million visits have been made to thousands of unique buildings and spaces, 15,000+ volunteer hours are generated annually, and participants spend more than $11 million during their travels in a typical year as they learn about heritage conservation and local history and have fun. Doors Open Ontario's core principle is to create meaningful shared experiences for all Ontarians to enjoy and appreciate their heritage with as few barriers to participation as possible.