The gateway to North Western Ontario, Fort Frances is located just across the border from International Falls, Minnesota. During the Summer months this border town welcomes thousands of American visitors who are either visiting the local area or passing through to other destinations in Canada. Also an important stop for Canadians visiting or returning from the U.S.A.

In 1731 the French established their presence in the area by building Fort St. Pierre. Then in 1775 the North West Company of Montreal built another fort named "Lac La Pluie Fort" which was used as a trading post for furs.

Today, Fort Frances has grown on to be an important link between Canada and the U.S.A. All International trade between North Western Ontario and the U.S.A. must travel through Fort Frances.