Category Archives: Things to Do

Epi-Curious

Epi-Curious

Epi-Curious: Discover A New-To-You Side of Niagara’s Sizzling Culinary Scene

Niagara’s renowned collection of farm-to-table chefs and award-winning restaurants may no longer qualify as a best-kept culinary secret, but this food-loving region still has plenty of surprises up its sleeve. Here are nine flavourful ways to incorporate some fresh foodie fun into your next trip to Niagara.

 

Go Global

Having attracted new Canadians for centuries, Niagara is home to an incredibly diverse range of chefs that pull out all the stops to honour the flavours of their homeland. From authentic North Indian to fresh and fiery Mexican, Korean barbecue, Jamaican jerk, killler Cubano sandwiches, and crepes that will make you think you’ve made a trip to Paris, there is no shortage of global flavours to enjoy when dining out in Niagara.

Fan The Flames

Niagara’s barbecue and smoked food scene has really started to sizzle in the past few years. Whether dining out in Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Benchlands, or Niagara’s South Coast, you’ll find restaurants doing really delicious things with smoke, heat, sauce, and meat!

Graze For Days

Perhaps as a result of Niagara’s thriving wine culture, the region is home to an excellent selection of places offering stellar light bites, small plates, and tapas-style dining options. From restaurants specializing in customizable charcuterie platters to wine bar and snack shop combinations and eating establishments with tapas specials offered on specific nights of the week, grazing options are endless in Niagara.

Embrace Old School

Niagara’s food-loving culture is not new. All it takes is one meal at one of the region’s many seasoned culinary landmarks to taste the fact that it’s been years in the making. Whether you indulge in a greasy breakfast at a diner filled with locals, slurp ice-cold oysters in a seafood restaurant that’s been helping guests celebrate special occasions for decades, or dig into a plate of house-made cannelloni created by a mother and son team, you’ll taste the pride in every bite.

Make For The Lakes

Count on a region that is home to both Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, the Welland Canal, and the Niagara River to excel at waterside dining! Port Dalhousie’s restaurant scene has an exciting selection of international flavour options, including Italian, Mexican/Spanish, Hungarian, and German. During the summer months, don’t miss the weekly Supper Market, when a tasty collection of food trucks, mobile vendors, wineries, and craft breweries descend on Lakeside Park for an evening of food, fellowship, live music, and fun.

No trip to Niagara is complete without indulging in a feast of Lake Erie Perch. Restaurants in Crystal Beach, Port Colborne, and Fort Erie regularly work their magic with the day’s catch but also look for fresh Lake Erie fish on menus throughout Niagara.

Head Straight To The Source

Getting a taste for Niagara’s rich agricultural roots is as easy as making a quick stop or two at one of the region’s many farmer’s markets, you-pick farms, or roadside stands. In the spring, can’t-miss crops include fresh asparagus and strawberries. Niagara’s tender fruit trees explode in the summer with some of the country’s most flavourful cherries, peaches, plums, and apricots. Fall brings the fun of heading to an apple orchard or pumpkin patch to seek out treasures to take home. Even in the off-season, Niagara’s farmer’s markets sell hearty root vegetables, cabbages, and squash that offer a taste of summer in Niagara, even in the coldest months of winter. If you’d prefer to leave the cooking to someone else, many of Niagara’s restaurants showcase local produce and farm-fresh proteins proudly on their menus.

Get Schooled

Taking part in one of the cooking classes or culinary seminars offered by a growing number of Niagara restaurants and wineries is another tasty way to add some hands-on foodie fun to your next trip. Delve into the culinary curriculum of your choice, like pairing wine with food, making pasta noodles from scratch, or cooking for holiday guests. As classes can last up to four hours, consider booking an overnight stay to allow you some additional time for some culinary cruising before or after your class.

Stamp Your Passport

Niagara wine country’s many passport touring programs are an excellent way to taste your way through light bites created by a wide range of Niagara chefs. Passport programs offered throughout the year by both Niagara Grape & Wine Festival and the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake offer passport holders the opportunity to visit a selection of wineries over the course of a day or a weekend, enjoying a wine selection and culinary pairing at each stop. Some wineries share light bites prepared by their own chef, while others get a kitchen assist with their culinary pairing from top area caterers and local restaurants.

Find Your Way To A Festival

The only thing Niagara loves more than a party is a party with incredible food! Hitting one of the region’s many festivals is a fantastic way to taste dishes from multiple chefs in one festive setting. Can’t-miss options include the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival, Welland FoodFest, Sip Niagara, and annual Rib Festivals in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls.

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to plan a getaway filled with some new-to-you Niagara flavours and culinary fun? You’re in the right place! Browse our Restaurants page for inspiration, and be sure to follow @VisitNiagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to get up-to-the-minute news on what’s happening in Niagara over the weeks and months ahead. Then, book a great place to stay and make a few dining reservations to round out your trip!

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Good things are made with love and grown close to home

Niagara Wine Country: No Repeats

Niagara Wine Country: No Repeats

With over 100 wineries and a calendar filled with wine-themed festivals and special events, it’s easy to make every trip to Niagara wine country feel like a brand-new adventure. Here are some of our favourite ways to incorporate a fun twist or two into every single trip.

Passport Touring Programs & Seasonal Events

Niagara’s wineries excel at taking a team approach to helping visitors taste and tour their way through the area’s unique wine-growing regions. Both the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival and the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake offer a variety of touring programs throughout the year that allow guests to enjoy themed wine and food pairings at a diverse range of wineries. Examples of touring programs include the  Icewine Festival’s Discovery Pass program, February’s Chocolate and Cheese touring program, May’s Sip and Sizzle, and the list goes on! Check the Niagara Wine Festival, Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Benchlands websites before your next Niagara visit to see which passport touring programs will coincide with your trip. Plan to dedicate an entire day or weekend to touring, as these passports include anywhere from six to 21 tastings! Booking an overnight stay allows visitors to slow down and soak up the experience at a leisurely pace.

Niagara’s many seasonal wine events are another excellent option for those who want to try wines from multiple wineries without spending the day touring about to different locations. Each September, the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival, Canada’s oldest and largest wine festival, takes over St. Catharines’ historic Montebello Park for a weekend showcasing Niagara wine, food, music, and fun. Other wine-focused events that visitors return to Niagara for again and again include the International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration, Graze The Bench, Love The Bench, Niagara Benchlands’ Winter WineFest and the Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Village.

Winery Classes

Getting schooled in something new is a memorable way to discover a different side of Niagara wine country. Guests can choose to level up their knowledge with a variety of hands-on experiences, including classes on how to pair wine with food, cooking classes, vineyard yoga classes, painting workshops, and floral arranging seminars. 

Winery Tours

Understanding that their biggest fans often have an unquenchable thirst for insider knowledge about their wines, vineyards, and winemaking techniques, Niagara’s wineries regularly introduce new touring experiences. Those who think they’ve checked the box on wine tours will be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of today’s touring options, which include everything from guided snowshoeing through a frosty vineyard to learning how to sabre a bottle of bubbly in Canada’s largest underground sparkling cellar, and guided vineyard tastings at sunset.

Winemaker Dinners

Attending an intimate dinner and spending time around the table with a winemaker is a delicious way to acquire some seriously next-level knowledge of Niagara wine country. Reserve your space as early as possible since these small events often get booked up quite quickly.

Concerts

Canada’s top musical talent adores performing in Niagara wine country. Artists and bands who return repeatedly to wow the crowds at Niagara wineries include Chantal Kreviazuk, The Sheepdogs, Bahamas, Jim Cuddy, and Ron Sexsmith.  As concerts are typically held at night, consider booking a hotel or bed and breakfast to avoid having to make a late-night trip home after the final encore!

New Release Parties

Experiencing the excitement of a new vintage release for a much-anticipated sparkler, fresh-from-the-barrel rosé, or meticulously crafted blend is a must for any wine lover. Watch winery event calendars as special dinners, receptions, and guided tastings are often held to commemorate the launch of particularly noteworthy bottles!

Insider Events for Wine Club Members

The benefits of becoming a wine club member go far beyond the monthly shipment of bottles at your door!  Becoming a wine club member at one (or a few) of your favourite Niagara wineries is a fantastic way to score incredible perks and member-exclusive access to a wide range of winery-hosted events. From complimentary tastings to barrel cellar dinners and invite-only seminars and classes, Niagara’s wineries treat their wine club members to a host of privileges that make every visit feel extra special. Some of Niagara’s wineries with larger wine clubs even dedicate entire weekends to their members and treat them to insider experiences like seminars, tours, and special meals.

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to plan a Niagara wine getaway filled with some new-to-you ways to experience Niagara’s world-class wineries and vineyards? You’re in the right place! Browse our Wineries page for inspiration, and be sure to follow @VisitNiagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to get up-to-the-minute news on what’s happening in Niagara wine country over the weeks and months ahead. Then, book a great place to stay and make a few dining reservations to round out your trip!

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Good things are made with love and grown close to home

A Sip For All Seasons

A Sip for All Seasons

Niagara’s Thriving Craft Beer, Cider and Spirit Scene Offers 12 Months of Tasty Touring

While Niagara’s world-class wine scene often takes centre stage in the region’s beverage production story, a delicious cast of other characters has been bubbling up in the background over the last decade. Today, Niagara’s craft breweries, cideries and distilleries are garnering their own fair share of well-deserved attention. With so much happening amongst these producers, one trip may not be enough to truly get a taste of all the action! In recognition of the fact that multiple trips may be in order, here is an entire year’s worth of fun ways to sip your way through Niagara’s craft beverage scene!

September

September is crunch time for Niagara’s apple orchards and cider producers, making it a perfect month for a pick-your-own adventure. Start your visit by going straight to the source and experience the fun of gathering a basket of apples right off the trees in the orchard. On your way to one of the ten craft cider producers on Niagara’s Ale Trail, make a stop at one of the region’s many bakeries for an apple-filled pastry, fritter, crumble, or pie.

October

What better way to celebrate Canadian Beer Day on October 9 than by raising a locally crafted pint to the people who brew it, sell it, deliver it, and serve it? The friendly staff at the 19 craft breweries on the Niagara Ale Trail will be thrilled to walk you through their interesting choices, curate a flight that reflects your unique flavour preferences, and give you the inside scoop on their craft brewing secrets.

November

Spend International Stout Day, celebrated on the first Thursday in November, getting to know the darkly delicious side of Niagara’s craft beer scene. As you taste your way through Niagara’s sensational Stout selection, be prepared to encounter creative ingredients and add-ins like oatmeal, cold-brew coffee, and even oysters!

December

Spending a December weekend shopping for spirited stocking stuffers and merry merchandise at Niagara’s craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries is an excellent way to impress the beverage lovers on your holiday gift list. You’ll find endless gifting inspiration, including cans of creative brews (which fit perfectly into the toe of a stocking), fun branded swag, beautiful barware, and unique bottles of spirits! Be sure to make time for a pub-style lunch or cozy comfort food dinner at one of the many restaurants located within Niagara’s craft breweries. Consider booking overnight accommodations to allow some extra time to browse Niagara’s many unique shopping districts and outlet malls while you’re here.

January

Set yourself up for a delicious Dry January with a trip to Niagara. The area’s small-batch distilleries are a great place to find locally made fruit bitters for tasty mocktails. Several craft breweries and cideries also offer carefully crafted non-alcoholic beer and cider options. Indulge in a little extra self-care during your getaway at one of Niagara’s world-class destination spas.

February

Spending a weekend touring the Niagara Ale Trail is a fun and flavorful way to stock the fridge for February’s Superbowl festivities with small-batch beers and ciders that often can’t be found at larger retailers. With 19 different craft breweries and ten cideries to choose from, booking an overnight stay is a good idea.

March

Celebrate International Whisky Day with a dram of something delicious at one of Niagara’s award-winning distilleries. Niagara’s distilleries have been wowing the world’s wine critics lately, bringing home awards that include the Canadian Whisky Awards’ Whisky Maker of the Decade, a Double Gold from the International Spirit Awards, Best in Show at the Global Spirits Awards and a Gold Medal at the U.S. Open Spirits Competition.

April

Don’t let rainy April weather put a damper on your trip to Niagara. Many craft breweries offer fun indoor activities during the off-season, like trivia nights, Name That Tune contests and more. Taking part in a guided distillery or craft brewery tour or tasting is another excellent way to pass a rainy day!

May

Spending the first warm, sunny day of May enjoying a frosty pint on a patio is a Canadian tradition, and Niagara’s got plenty of fantastic options! In the warmer months, you’ll find patios with live music, friendly matches of corn hole happening, and beautiful Niagara views.

June

Those looking to try a diverse range of Niagara and Ontario craft brews from one fun and festive location will want to make the trip to St. Catharines for the Quench Craft Beer Festival. Niagara’s premier craft beer festival brings 25 of Ontario’s best producers to Downtown St. Catharines each June!

July

Summertime in Niagara brings bushels of farm-fresh flavours from the region’s many fruit farms, making July an excellent time to taste the interesting layers that ingredients like peaches, cherries, berries, plums, and apricots add to beer, cider, hard seltzer, and spirits.

August

Honour the dog days of summer by bringing your pooch along on your August trip to Niagara. Not only are many of Niagara’s patios dog friendly, some of the area’s craft brewers even offer special perks for dogs, like water bowls, “pup plates,” “barkuterie boards,” and branded dog bandanas!

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to plan a getaway filled with some new-to-you Niagara craft breweries, cideries and distilleries? You’re in the right place! Browse our Craft Beer, Cider, and Spirits pages for inspiration, and be sure to follow @VisitNiagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to get up-to-the-minute news on what’s happening in Niagara over the weeks and months ahead. Then, book a great place to stay and make a few dining reservations to round out your trip!

Stay

World Class Accommodations

Taste

Good things are made with love and grown close to home

We Spent the Most Romantic Saturday in Niagara

We spent the most romantic Saturday night in Niagara

If you’ve been in a relationship for many years, your version of romance may have slowly shifted from surprise hotel stays and rose bouquets to your partner remembering your favourite brand of oat milk at the grocery store.

At least, that’s the case for my relationship. After nine years of happy coupledom, our romance is more along the lines of takeout-and-HBO than jetting off to Paris. Our routine, though lovely, was in need of a jolt of old school romance – full of the kind of wonderment and delight usually reserved for Hollywood rom-coms.

We didn’t have to look too far for the perfect escape: Niagara. Just a short, enjoyable road trip from Toronto, the region has it all, from gourmet dining to over 50 vineyards made for strolling hand-in-hand. And nothing says classic romance quite like a candlelit, multi-course dinner. We had the makings of a perfect date.

In Niagara, there is no shortage of options for tasty and intimate dining experiences, from the splashy, award-winning and inventive dishes at Restaurant Pearl Morissette to the charming, elevated Canadian fare at Inn on the Twenty. For our Saturday night out, we drive along vineyard roads in the dusky early evening to our destination: Vineland Estates Winery.

Located in the heart of the famed Niagara Benchlands, about a 40-minute drive from the Falls, Vineland Estates houses one of the first winery restaurants in the area, located inside a renovated 1845 farmhouse. The executive chef at Vineland Estates Winery – The Restaurant, George Ward, is a Niagara native who innately understands the beauty of local ingredients and translates them into dishes that feel familiar yet fresh.

We start with the beef tartare and lobster tail, an indulgent dish that proves that sometimes more is more, and the savoury, complex house-cured duck pastrami. The mains – melt-in-your mouth lingcod accompanied by celeriac puree and sweet heirloom beets as well as a vegetable-packed, blue-cheese spiked fettuccine – are both excellent. For dessert, we split a chocolate pear tart made with chai-infused shortread, trading bites back and forth. All the while, we sip on a reserve Cabernet Franc that’s bursting with jammy strawberry flavours.

 

The restaurant gets the vibe just right: a tea candle on each table, subtle music that allows for rich conversation and even a crackling fire at the head of the dining room. We feel so far away from our day-to-day concerns and routines. We vow to come back in the summer, when we can enjoy a long evening on the patio.

After the night my partner and I had, there’s no doubt: Niagara knows how to do romance. Whether you’re in the early days of the honeymoon phase or looking to reignite a spark, a dinner in Niagara – with all its tantalizing bites and smooth sips – is the perfect evening.

Your relationship will thank you.

For one-of-a-kind experiences, try the Igloo-like 10below Icewine Lounge built with more than 13,000 kilos of ice, where you’ll sip on luscious Icewine.  Or take to the skies with  a helicopter ride to capture the view of the mystical sight of an icy Falls.  

Your romantic Niagara is here to be discovered.

Taste

Good things are made with love and grown close to home

Stay

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Discovering the Niagara Benchlands

Discovering the Niagara Benchlands

My full day’s itinerary of eating, drinking and exploring the Niagara Benchlands

When I say I’m going to Niagara, you’d be forgiven for thinking that must include a stop at its namesake, world-famous waterfalls. But there is another option for exploring the region, along the path less traveled: the Niagara Benchlands, where you could easily spend a day – or even a weekend – eating, sipping and exploring your way through this under-the-radar culinary gem.

And that’s exactly what I did on a recent winter weekend.

The entire Niagara Peninsula is a world-renowned wine appellation, home to 46 grape varieties (many of which are well suited to the cooler climate) growing over 13,600 acres of vineyards. This area divided into two regional appellations: Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Niagara Escarpment. NOTL boasts 40 wineries, many of which—like Pelller Estates and Wayne Gretzky Estates—are household names. The Niagara Escarpment, meanwhile, is home to the Niagara Benchlands, formerly known as the Twenty Valley. Thanks to the special air circulation in this region, grapes are protected from frost, grape growers and wine makers the ability to create refreshing, distinct wines that often buck tradition. Wineries here have attracted global attention thanks to their unique offerings and a commitment to terroir-driven practices.

The Benchlands are a charming collection of small villages, winding drives through sloping vineyards and roadside farm stands. Sweeping lake views are a common sight as you zig-zag your way to and from the area’s 54—yes 54!—wineries.

You’d hardly go wrong visiting any of the area’s wineries – from sipping award-winning Gamays at Malivoire or working your way through a flight of funky Pet-Nats and skin-contact Rosés at Rosewood. I decided to pop into Westcott, known for its excellent traditional-method sparkling wines.

This turned out to be the right decision for a winter visit: I snag a spot on an antique couch right in front of the floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace and enjoy the comforting crackle and warmth as I work my way through a tasting flight of light, jammy Pinot Noirs and celebration-worthy bubblies.

Through the window, I can see rolling vineyard hills of Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay and other grape varietals that thrive in the Benchlands. Near me, fellow wine lovers are gathered around a large farmhouse table, chatting and leisurely sipping from their glasses, in no rush to leave.

Next up on the itinerary is a stop at a brewery – appropriately named The Bench. Located in Beamsville, just a 10 minute drive from Wesctott, it’s one of Ontario’s few breweries that boasts its own estate-grown hops. In the summer, the crowd spills out onto the patio set amongst the hop vines; in the winter, we cozy up indoors in an old school building that The Bench has turned into its tap room. The Bench takes its inspiration from Belgian-style beer making, and the selection on offer includes juicy IPAs, berry-infused sours and sturdy porters.

Now that I’m getting hungry, a stop at Upper Canada Cheese is a must—requiring another short, 10 minute drive past the buzzy, renowned Restaurant Pearl Morisette in Jordan Station. Taking a page from the region’s wine makers, this cheese maker also leans towards seasonal, terroir-driven practices. That means no intervention in the process, and no aim to standardize the taste – resulting in cheeses that reflect the subtle changes in seasons, feed and environment. I go for the award-winning Niagara Gold, a semi-soft Guernsey cow’s milk cheese draped in a nutty edible rind that’s subtly salty, earthy and sweet.

Finally, it’s on to dinner at the Inn on Twenty in quaint and quiet Jordan Village, less than a five minute drive away. The Inn conveniently shares a wall with the Cave Springs tasting room, but I head straight to the restaurant’s dining room – I don’t want to miss sweeping views of the sunset from the window across from my table. The Inn’s restaurant is all about refined, farm-to-table fare. The beef short rib is slow-braised using Baco Noir from nearby Sue-Ann Staff winery, while the ice-wine poached butternut squash sits atop a bed of local greens. A glass of perfect Cave Springs Pinot Noir is the ideal accompaniment.

After dinner, I’m tempted to inquire whether the inn has any vacant suites – with so much more to taste and explore, maybe I’m not quite ready to leave the Benchlands yet. Alas, the rooms are all taken. That just means I have to plan another visit.

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World Class Accommodations

Taste

Good things are made with love and grown close to home

Family Attractions in Niagara

Niagara Family Attractions

FAMILY TIME

In Niagara

Memories that Last a Lifetime

Whatever your Niagara may be, we’ve got you covered, no matter the season. Not sure where to start? Whether you’re looking to spend time in the great outdoors, or splash around inside an Indoor Waterpark, Niagara Canada has everything needed for a perfect getaway that will keep you coming back for more.

Clifton Hill

Clifton Hill has reinvented itself over the years, and has established itself as one of the top family-fun destinations in all of Canada. Clifton Hill features hotels, attractions, restaurants and entertainment, all just one block from Niagara Falls and the Niagara Parkway.

Clifton Hill’s exciting array of attractions including the Niagara Speedway and the Niagara Skywheel, Canada’s Largest Giant wheel providing you with views like no other of Niagara Falls.

There are a number of museums, arcades, and restaurants found throughout Clifton Hill.

And based on its stellar location, you’re just steps from Niagara Falls and attractions such as Niagara City Cruises, the Niagara Zipline, and stunning natural green spaces such as Queen Victoria Park.

Clifton Hill, 4960 Clifton Hill , Niagara Falls, ON, L2G 3N4

Niagara City Cruises

You’ll be happy to be caught in the mist aboard one of Canada’s top rated attractions, Niagara City Cruises anchored by Hornblower.

Sail upon state of the art boats, coming face-to-face with the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Along the way you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. This is an experience unlike any other. You will feel the thundering roar, awesome power of this world wonder.

Niagara City Cruises: 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8

Wildplay Zipline

Get a truly unique view of Niagara Falls aboard a thrilling adventure on WildPlay’s Zipline to the Falls.

This attraction is a hands-free, worry-free and fully-guided experience for both the thrill seekers and the hesitant. This is an experience like no other in the world.

WildPlay Niagara Falls Zipline to the Falls, 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8

Niagara Parks

Experience the thrill of Niagara Parks’ attractions beloved by generations of explorers for more than 130 years.

Whether you’re standing in awe under the roar of the falls, soaring over a rushing whirlpool or surrounded by more than 2,000 free-flying butterflies, our iconic Canadian experiences will take your breath away.

Attractions include the brand new Niagara Parks Power Station, as well as the Whirlpool Aero Car, ?Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Walk, Buttefly Conservatory and more!

Tablerock Welcoming Centre, 6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 0L0

Waterparks in Niagara Falls

Enjoy the water year round in Niagara Falls. Home to major waterparks such as the American Resort’s Waves Indoor Water Park and the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, the fun continues year round. Each waterpark offers unique rides, thousands of square feet of water slides, activities and fun for the whole family.

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, 5685 Falls Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6W7

Waves Indoor Waterpark, 8444 Lundy’s Ln, Niagara Falls, ON L2H 1H4

Family Food & Fun

Sure, many of us know the Niagara Region as the home of the world-famous Falls, but there’s so much more to the region.

Here you will find Niagara restaurants, wineries, farms and more, catering to all tastes and palates.

We encourage you to discover new flavours and experiences, made with love, throughout the seasons.

Various Locations in Niagara Region

Up Close & Personal with Niagara Falls

Get up close and personal with Niagara Falls. The unique thing about a visit to Niagara is just how close you can get to this iconic natural wonder.

You will be taken in by the mist, the roar and a majesty of the Falls.

Visit the Table Rock Welcoming Centre and stand feet from the iconic falls. Or visit one of the previously mentioned attractions such as Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara City Cruises and Wildplay’s Zipline to the Falls.

Tablerock Welcoming Centre, 6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 0L0

Hiking Niagara

Did you know that Niagara is home to amazing hiking! 

Visit the Niagara Glen Gorge is one of the best preserved remaining example of Southern Ontario’s original Carolinian forest.

Niagara is also home to the start of the Bruce Trail, the oldest and longest marked hiking trail in Canada.  

Various Locations in Niagara Region

Exploring your Romantic Side in Niagara

Explore your Romantic Side in Niagara

Whether it’s toasting Icewine marshmallows over a crackling fire or relaxing in a luxury suite overlooking the Falls, romance is  a state of mind best defined by the moments shared.

Maybe it’s Valentines Day or just a weekend getaway, but discovering those experiences together is one way to heat up a cool winter day and create lasting memories.

Kick off those magical moments with a stay in a historic Inn featuring ornate architecture and four poster beds or get cozy in a room with a view of Niagara Falls, complete with fireplace and jacuzzi.

Unpack the bags and head out to discover a new favorite wine from the place where it was harvested and bottled.  Choose from a host of winery experiences to share  whether it’s a snowshoe, yoga and wine expedition or wrapping up with a blanket around a firepit sipping wine and roasting S’mores.

For foodies, Niagara’s world class chefs serve up tantalizing seasonal fare in candlelight settings. Think starters like seared foie gras with house-made toasted brioche, roasted winter squash and a cabernet merlot reduction or mains like Ontario farm braised lamb shank with a white bean cassoulet along with Icewine red cabbage.

Who doesn’t love a romantic stroll through quaint villages stretching from Jordan to Niagara-on-the-lake, free from the blaring sounds of the city? Breathe fresh air, take in the sights and just relax, perhaps capping off the afternoon with a horse drawn carriage ride.

If Lighthouses are on your list,  walk the pier in Port Dalhousie to capture Instagram worthy moments.

For one-of-a-kind experiences, try the Igloo-like 10below Icewine Lounge built with more than 13,000 kilos of ice, where you’ll sip on luscious Icewine.  Or take to the skies with  a helicopter ride to capture the view of the mystical sight of an icy Falls.  

Your romantic Niagara is here to be discovered.

Stay

World Class Accommodations

Taste

Good things are made with love and grown close to home

Winter Family Adventure to Niagara

Winter Family Adventure to Niagara

Winter Family Vacation in Niagara

Niagara, renowned for its breathtaking beauty, transforms into a winter wonderland each year, offering a plethora of activities for families to enjoy. While the Winter Festival of Lights is a popular attraction, there’s so much more to explore in this icy paradise. Here’s a list of 10 family-friendly activities that promise a memorable winter escapade in Niagara Falls, Canada.

Niagara Falls Hotel Rooms

A family hotel getaway in Niagara fosters precious moments of togetherness. With cozy rooms framing the majestic falls and family-friendly amenities like pools and game rooms, it’s a perfect setting for creating lasting memories. The hotel’s close proximity to local attractions adds to the shared experiences and joy.

View Niagara Falls Hotel Rooms

Niagara Waterparks

Escape the cold and dive into the tropical ambiance of Indoor Niagara Waterpark. These paradise offers thrilling water slides, wave pools, and a exhilarating thrills, providing a summer-like oasis amidst the winter chill. It’s a perfect spot for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.

View Indoor Waterparks

 

Journey Behind the Falls

Step into a fascinating world at Journey Behind the Falls. Here, you can witness the majestic, frozen falls from a unique vantage point – behind them! Walking through the tunnels and observing the intricate icicles and frost formations offers an unforgettable experience.

View Journey Behind the Falls

Butterfly Conservatory

Enter a warm, vibrant ecosystem at Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory, where thousands of colorful butterflies flutter freely. This magical environment is a stark contrast to the winter outside and offers a peaceful retreat for families.

View Butterfly Conservatory

Winter Festival of Lights

November 18, 2023 to January 7, 2024

The most enchanting of Niagara Falls attractions, the annual Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s largest FREE outdoor light festival. Experience the spectacular displays with millions of lights and larger than life displays across the tourism districts.

View Winter Festival of Lights

Maple Tours

Discover the sweet side of Niagara with a family-friendly, self-guided tour of Maple shops, including a visit to White Meadows Farms. Experience the charm of maple syrup production, from tree tapping to tasting, and explore quaint shops offering unique maple products. It’s a delightful and educational adventure for all ages! 

View Maple Tours

Niagara Skywheel

Take a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning panoramic views of the frozen falls and the surrounding winter landscape. An evening ride is especially magical, with the falls illuminated against the night sky.

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Helicopter Tour

Elevate your Niagara experience with a helicopter tour. Soaring above the falls and the icy landscape offers a perspective like no other, showcasing the winter beauty of Niagara in its full splendor.

View Niagara Helicopters

Niagara Falls

Taking the family up close to Niagara Falls is a mesmerizing experience. Standing next to the guard rail near the Tablerock Welcoming Centre, you feel the mist and hear the thunderous roar of the falls. Watching the icy waters cascade down, surrounded by snow-dusted landscapes, creates a uniquely breathtaking and unforgettable family moment.

Family Culinary Fun

Embark on a delightful self-guided culinary tour of Niagara this winter. Explore cozy cafés, sample local delicacies, and indulge in world-class cuisine while enjoying the frosty beauty the Region. There are unique and great food scenes across the region, including Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Catharines and the Niagara Benchlands. It’s a perfect blend of culinary exploration and family fun, offering a taste of local culture and warmth.

Educational & Fun Museums

Niagara Falls is steeped in history. Visiting local museums and historical sites, such as the Niagara Falls History Museum, offers an educational and engaging experience for the whole family.

View Niagara Falls History Museum

Niagara Falls in winter is more than just its iconic, illuminated waterfalls. It’s a destination brimming with unique experiences waiting to be discovered. From indoor tropical escapades to outdoor adventures, there’s something for every family member to enjoy, making for a winter holiday that’s both diverse and delightful. Pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable family journey in the heart of Canada’s winter beauty!

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Indoor Family Fun in Niagara

Indoor Family Fun in Niagara

Winter Family Vacation in Niagara

Imagine watching your children’s expressions after their first glimpse of the iconic Niagara Falls or hear their excited squeals as hundreds of  butterflies in a rainbow of colours descend in their midst.

Choosing a family getaway matters because those are the moments that can educate, excite and create ever-lasting memories for both  young and old. It’s a time to bond and share moments together.

That may be why so many families are drawn to indoor water adventures.

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

At the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark your youngsters can explore a mammoth play area that includes a Beach House and rain fortress complete with a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket as well as wave pool.

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Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark

When you’re looking for the ultimate family getaway, our resort has it all: a 100,000 square-foot indoor water park kept at a warm 84 degrees year-round, fun attractions & events, dining options to please every palate, and more — Experience a world of play all under one roof.

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Waves Indoor Waterpark

Splash the day away at Americana Conference Resort Spa & Waterpark Waves Waterpark. Featuring over 25,000 sq. feet of fun packed under one retractable roof. 

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Winter Festival of Lights

For over forty years, the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights has transformed into a must-visit winter destination for families and friends. Throughout its history, the Festival has consistently grown, introducing fresh light displays and events. Its expansive offerings ensure that visitors always find something new to explore, providing ample reasons to revisit and relish the Festival’s enchanting atmosphere across its 51-night duration.

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Bird Kingdom

When it is time to head inside, have your camera ready to capture your children’s expressions as they are greeted by  hundreds of tropical birds while exploring the indoor pathways of a multi-level rainforest experience at the Bird Kingdom. Feed and interact with lorikeets and get up close with parrots and a host of other exotic creatures.

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Butterfly Conservatory

Equally photo worthy is the Butterfly Conservatory where more than 2000 butterflies flutter freely throughout the tropical paradise. As well as entertaining, there’s also an educational component with interactive displays and the chance to  witness a  butterfly emerge from its pupa, hanging to dry before it takes its first flight.

View Butterfly Conservatory

Whether its indoor water sports, unique fresh air activities or encounters with rare butterflies and birds, discover how Niagara can help your family  create a treasure-trove of memories that will last a lifetime.

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Romantic Winter Getaway to Niagara

Winter Romance

Romantic Winter Vacation in Niagara

As winter wraps Niagara in a blanket of serene beauty, it becomes a haven for couples seeking a romantic escape. The frosty season in Niagara is not just about the breathtaking scenery; it’s a time to reconnect, indulge in luxury, and create unforgettable moments together.

From cozy stays overlooking the majestic falls to leisurely walks in charming towns, every aspect of Niagara in winter is tailored for romance.

Luxurious Niagara Hotel Stay

Immerse yourself in romance with a luxurious hotel stay in Niagara Falls. Picture waking up to the breathtaking sight of the falls, a natural wonder right outside your window. These hotels offer the perfect blend of comfort and elegance, setting the stage for a romantic getaway. Spend your evenings cuddling in plush rooms, savouring the beauty of the falls illuminated against the night sky.

 View Niagara Falls Hotels

Indulge in Niagara Wine

Explore the charm of the Niagara Benchlands with a winery tour. The region’s vineyards, blanketed in snow, create a picturesque setting for love to blossom. Sample exquisite local wines, learn about the winemaking process, and toast to your love amidst the peaceful, snowy vineyards. This experience combines the warmth of companionship with the unique flavours of Niagara’s wines.

 View Niagara Wineries

Couples Spa Day

Indulge in a couples massage, a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate together. This intimate experience allows you to unwind and connect on a deeper level, surrounded by soothing aromas and calming music. It’s a moment of tranquillity, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

 View Niagara Spas

Romantic Meals

Dining in Niagara is an experience. Enjoy a great meal together at one of the many fine dining restaurants overlooking the falls or nestled in the heart of the town. The combination of exquisite cuisine, intimate settings, and impeccable service makes every meal a celebration of your love.

View Niagara Restaurants

Niagara in winter is the perfect backdrop for couples to slow down and savour their time together. Whether it’s cozying up in a luxury hotel, exploring wineries, or enjoying a quiet meal, this romantic time of year is about reconnecting and creating new memories. Embrace the slower pace and let the magic of Niagara in winter rekindle the flame of romance.

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Experience Niagara Fall Colours

Experience Niagara Fall Colours

Autumn marks the transition to fall in Niagara Falls, offering an opportunity to witness the changing leaves and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Beyond the world-renowned falls, Niagara has much to offer during this season. Here are some of the best ways to take in Fall Colours in Niagara.

Niagara Falls: A Fall Spectacle of Colour

During the fall, the foliage surrounding Niagara Falls transforms with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. As you approach the falls, you’ll notice this seasonal change in the surrounding landscape. A leisurely walk along the Niagara Parkway provides excellent vantage points to appreciate the fall colors juxtaposed with the falls’ iconic backdrop.

Visit Niagara Region this Fall

Niagara Wineries Harvest

Niagara’s reputation as Canada’s leading wine-producing region is well-deserved. In the fall, the vineyards take on a new appeal as the leaves change colours, offering an excellent setting for relaxing afternoons spent sipping vintages. Whether you prefer red , white, rose or even Icewine, you can enjoy Niagara winery exclusive wines & pairings amidst the autumn scenery. An added bonus is viewing Harvest season first hand, as Niagara Wineries harvest grapes for many future vintages. 

Visit Niagara Wineries

Niagara Seasonal Craft Beers

For those with a taste for craft beer, Niagara’s growing craft brewery scene offers a multitude of options. In the fall, breweries often feature seasonal ales infused with flavours like pumpkin and spices. Many of these short batch productions are available only at the breweries, nestled in the heart of wine country.

Visit Niagara Breweries

Fall Hikes at the Niagara Glen

To immerse yourself in the Niagara Fall colours experience, consider a visit to the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve. The gorge becomes a canvas of autumn colours as you navigate well-marked trails. Tall trees create a natural canopy in shades of red and gold, and the aroma of fallen leaves permeates the air. The Whirlpool Trail offers a rewarding view of the Niagara River’s turbulent waters.

Visit Niagara Glen

Whether you’re admiring the natural wonder of Niagara Falls, exploring local wineries, sipping seasonal ales at a brewery, or hiking through the Niagara Glen Gorge, a fall visit to Niagara Falls provides a unique way to embrace the season’s beauty.

 

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Uncork Niagara

Uncork Niagara

$8 Billion Economic Opportunity

Niagara is the largest wine production region in Canada. With a steady annual 3.2% growth rate in sales, Ontario’s wine industry is a reliable accelerator for economic growth and job creation in the Niagara Region and the province. In 2019, our industry contributed over $1 billion to Canada’s GDP. Today, Niagara is primed to become a flourishing, robust economic region and a world-class wine and tourism destination, with the potential to unlock $8 Billion in additional real GDP in 25 years!

The Niagara Region is poised for growth and presents a unique opportunity for investment in the wine industry. By tapping into this potential, Ontario will unlock a multitude of benefits. Wine has proven to be a catalyst for economic expansion and job creation, making it an ideal avenue for development.

To fully leverage this potential, it is crucial to study and learn from renowned tourism destinations worldwide. Many of these destinations have thriving premium wine industries at their core, which play a pivotal role in driving economic growth. Beyond vineyards, wine contributes to the growth of the tourism sector, promotes sustainable farming practices, fuels transportation and manufacturing, initiates construction and infrastructure projects, and enhances culinary, hospitality, and cultural experiences.

Now is the opportune moment to embrace global best practices and policies established by premier wine regions. By adopting these standards in Niagara, Ontario stands to gain billions of dollars in economic growth, benefiting both the region and the province as a whole.

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Nightly Niagara Falls Fireworks

Nightly Niagara Falls Fireworks

Niagara Falls Fireworks take place every evening at 10pm from May 19th, 2023 to October 9th, 2023.

Winter Festival of Lights Fireworks Schedule

November: 18th, 24th and 25th at 8:00pm

December: 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 22nd – 30th at 8:00pm

December 31st: (NYE) at 8:00 pm and 12:00am (midnight)

January: 1st-7th at 8:00pm

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience as the night sky illuminates above the majestic Niagara Falls. Witness the breathtaking display of fireworks, painting the darkness with bursts of vibrant colors.

Experience the captivating  Niagara Falls from unique viewing locations.  

Discover the beauty of outdoor spaces nestled within Niagara Parks, offering panoramic views of the Falls and the vibrant fireworks dancing across the night sky. Feel the mist aboard a Nighttime Niagara Cruises Falls Fireworks Cruise.

Indoor options abound as well, with a multitude of hotels and restaurants offering spectacular views of the Falls. Choose to indulge in the comfort of your Fallsview hotel room, where you can relax and marvel at the fireworks display from the comfort of your own hotel room.

For a truly immersive viewing and culinary experience, select one of the many Fallsview restaurants.

Enjoy a great meal and be mesmorized by the unrivaled views of the fireworks illuminating the night sky.

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Celebrities love Niagara Falls just as much as you do

Celebrities love Niagara Falls just as much as you do

For as long as celebrities have existed, they’ve loved coming to Niagara Falls. Can you blame them? The region’s attractions, from the mighty falls to the lush vineyards, are suitably cinematic and larger-than-life. It’s no wonder the region has hosted everyone from A-list movie stars to teen heartthrobs and even international dignitaries.

Perhaps the most iconic and enduring example of this love affair between the Falls and the stars is Marilyn Monroe. The actress was shooting a film, the 1953 noir thriller Niagara, in the area; the Horseshoe Falls feature prominently on the film’s poster and, naturally, play a pivotal role in the film’s dramatic climax. (But no spoilers here!)

Monroe spent two weeks in Niagara in June 1952 while filming. Along with the rest of the cast, she stayed at what’s now known as the Crowne Plaza Hotel, just a few steps away from the Falls. Back then, the hotel was called the General Brock, in honour of the British major general who defended Canada in the War of 1812. She stayed in room 807; today, a lucky guest can still snag this suite for their stay.

Monroe wasn’t the only 20th century screen star to visit. Ginger Rogers touched down in 1974, as well as Superman stars Cristopher Reeve and Margot Kidder in 1979. Elvis played shows in the area in ’74 and ’75.

Skip ahead a few decades for another notable visit: Princess Diana.

The beloved royal made a stop in Niagara during her 1991 tour of Ontario. William and Harry were in tow; the meet-and-greet at Table Rock became Prince Harry’s first official royal walkabout. The visit was quick – Diana and the boys boarded a helicopter bound for Toronto that same day. But the trio made time for one of Niagara’s must-do attractions: a Niagara Falls boat tour.

It was October, and by then most of the boats were already in storage for the upcoming winter. But one had been set aside for this special ride. The photos of Diana, William and Harry aboard the little white boat in their blue plastic ponchos – the same ones donned by hundreds of thousands before and after them – are simply iconic.

Today’s biggest names continue to be drawn to the area: John Legend once stayed at the Prince of Wales hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Ryan Gosling took his wife Eva Mendes on a cheesy-yet-romantic ride on the Niagara Skywheel in bustling Clifton Hill. And teen star Dylan Sprouse was joined by his model girlfriend Barbara Palvin in 2021 as the duo goofed around along the fallsview trail and capped off their trip by sharing a bottle of Riesling among the vines at Peller Estates Winery.

There is one common thread that weaves these celebrity visits together: the rich and famous experience Niagara in the same ways we all do. There are no private yachts, no red-velvet-rope-exclusive sightseeing reserved for a special class of tourist. The Falls, and their surrounding charm, are open for all to see.

In this case, the stars really are just like us.

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Exploring historic Niagara was like stepping back in time

Exploring Historic Niagara

Exploring historic Niagara was like stepping back in time

As I’m passing by elegant Victorian-era homes with their ornate porches along Queen Street in Niagara-on-the-Lake, I notice a building on the lakefront horizon.

It’s Fort Mississauga, a national historic site that’s just a short walk away from NOTL’s main strip. It sits strategically on the craggy shores where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario. Built in the early 19th century to help the British protect the Niagara frontier from the invading American army, this fort was part of a system that included nearby, more well-known Fort George and Fort Erie. With Fort George temporarily closed, and Fort Eerie another hour’s drive away, my choice of historic spot is not only convenient, but also an off-the-beaten-path option.

Like all of Niagara’s history and its natural surroundings, there’s a layered story here. Prior to becoming Fort Mississauga, this spot was home to the first lighthouse on the Great Lakes. Before that, it was used by many First Nations, including the Seneca and Mississaugas, as a fishing settlement.

It’s a blustery, bright and crisp winter’s day, and the horizon is so clear that I can see Toronto’s spiky skyline all the way across the water. The fort tower sits on rolling grass that looks like it was lifted straight from an oil painting. The tower is a sturdy, square brick block surrounded by a unique, star-shaped earthwork to further protect it. All I have to do is squint, and it’s easy to imagine myself as a foot soldier emerging from a barrack, on the lookout for danger, the wind rushing between my ears and the sun blazing overhead.

From its flagship waterfalls formed over 10,000 years ago and some of North America’s oldest forest land, to its strategic fortifications and mesmerizing towns – a history buff could never feel bored in the Niagara Region. (Case in point? I didn’t get a chance to visit, but Fort George is a must on any War of 1812 discovery trail.)

If Fort Mississauga evokes thoughts of regiments and battle stations, then Ball’s Falls in the nearby Twenty Valley, about a 35 minute drive down winding winery-flanked roads, is decidedly calmer and quainter. This tiny, historically restored village is a literal hidden gem – you have to take a short hike (past the namesake waterfall) to get to it.

The hamlet dates back to 1809, and began as a gristmill built by the Ball brothers, powered by the nearby Twenty Mile Creek. The handful of buildings include a schoolhouse, the original Ball family home and a darling white chapel. There’s even a tie back to Fort Mississauga here – the gristmill provided flour for the troops during the War of 1812.

The charming little village hosts historic tours that include a glimpse at some of the homes and their antique-filled interiors, but on this day I wander from building to building alone, walking unhurriedly down the grassy trails that connect this tiny settlement (at its peak, 19 people lived here) and imagine what life must have been like for the area’s early European settlers.

Finally, a history-filled visit to Niagara must include a trip to the Tunnel – the region’s newest attraction and quite literally the talk of the town. Located 180 meters below the Niagara Parks Power Station just a stone’s throw from the falls themselves, this old tunnel, used to funnel away wastewater from the power plant, was built a century ago using only rudimentary tools and dynamite.

After entering the power station – which, having been built by iconic Toronto architect E.J Lennox of Casa Loma fame, is an architectural destination in its own right – I take a glass-walled elevator down into the tunnel. I glide down past rust-speckled gears, hidden platforms and pipes that seem forgotten by time. My fellow elevator passengers even compare the sight to the Titanic.

The tunnel is wide and brick-covered, its walls curve up towards an arched ceiling. Walking through it and hearing echoes of my footsteps makes me feel like I’m being allowed to experience something secret. The story of the tunnel’s construction and usage is revealed to me step by step as I walk past historic photographs and diagrams. Although it feels like it could go on forever, after a ten minute walk the tunnel culminates with the viewing deck – what was once the point where the water exited the station. Today, it’s a prime spot to get the best photos in the area, thanks to the unique lower vantage point of the falls.

As soon as I step out onto the deck, I think it’s started raining. But no, that’s just the mist from the powerful falls hitting me from all directions. I suddenly regret being the only visitor to turn down the free plastic poncho. Still, standing there, taking it all in, I’m left in awe, thinking about how enduring the history of these falls – and the region – really is.

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Tasting Niagara

Tasting Niagara

Fresh Tastes

OF NIAGARA

My Niagara with Kaitlin Narciso

Join Kaitlin as she enjoys some of the unique tastes and experiences from local ingredients found only in Niagara.

Revalee Brunch Café

Revalee Brunch Café offers a side by side of modern brunch fare and unique vegan dishes.

They offer an exquisite selection of local Pluck teas, fresh-roasted seasonal Pilot coffees and espresso, local wines, beers, and many of the other bounties of Niagara.

4100 Victoria Ave, Vineland, ON L0R 2C0

Quiet Acres Farms

Quiet Acres offers fresh local produce that is grown on 200 acres of their family farm in Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada

They offer a variety of fresh products, and are open throughout the spring into the early fall.

 

672 Lakeshore Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Niagara Buzz

Niagara Buzz

Sweet Tastes

OF NIAGARA

My Niagara with Kaitlin Narciso

Join Kaitlin Narciso, Travel Editor and Food Journalist as she tastes Niagara Honey throughout the Niagara Region.

The Twisted Pig

Stately Classic Italian … with a twist! Located in the heart of Port Dalhousie with a lower + rooftop patio. Wood-fired pizza and house-made pasta coupled with local ingredients are just some of the options you’ll find to pair with a Niagara wine.

1 Lock St, St. Catharines, ON

Rosewood Estates Winery

Rosewood Estates Winery is a boutique winery, founded by a 3rd generation beekeeping family who fell in love with wine.

Located in the heart of Niagara on the Beamsville Bench, Rosewood Estates Winery is Niagara’s first winery and meadery.

4352 Mountainview Rd, Beamsville, ON

Explore Niagara’s Patio Scene

Patio Season

IN NIAGARA

Niagara was made for Patio Season.

Whether you prefer wine or beer, spirits or smoothies, Niagara’s roots are steeped in fresh, award-winning products, perfect for sipping and savouring in the region’s wide-open spaces. While wine tours and brewery-hopping offer a great introduction into the great tastes of the region, a tasting experience is truly elevated with the right foundation – a patio.

From sprawling spaces and beautiful balconies, to hidden oases and private platforms, Niagara is full of patios for you to enjoy a tasty beverage under the open summer skies. To help you sip your way through the countryside where good things grow, Visit Niagara has five perfect patios to get you started, no matter your tastes.

Niagara was made for Patio Season.

Whether you prefer wine or beer, spirits or smoothies, Niagara’s roots are steeped in fresh, award-winning products, perfect for sipping and savouring in the region’s wide-open spaces. While wine tours and brewery-hopping offer a great introduction into the great tastes of the region, a tasting experience is truly elevated with the right foundation – a patio.

From sprawling spaces and beautiful balconies, to hidden oases and private platforms, Niagara is full of patios for you to enjoy a tasty beverage under the open summer skies. To help you sip your way through the countryside where good things grow, Visit Niagara has five perfect patios to get you started, no matter your tastes.

Ravine Estate Vineyard, Niagara-on-the-Lake

It’s not just the views to sprawling vineyards that make this patio a perennial favourite for locals and tourists alike. It’s all that Ravine’s outdoor space has to offer. This is the place where you can sidle up to the outdoor bar and pizza oven for one of this winery’s incredible hard ciders and a wood-fired pie. It’s also where you can bring your family to gather around a table for a more formal meal. But don’t confuse that with stuffy. There are ping pong tables to help pass the time, wide open spaces for family matches of footie and never any rush to move along.

Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery, 1366 York Rd, St. Davids

URL: RavineVineyard.com

Niagara Oast House Brewers, Niagara-on-the-Lake

The atmosphere here feels very much like hanging out in your BFF’s big, country backyard. The PatiOast is a casual gathering spot for leisurely sipping of this craft brewery’s seasonal suds, including strawberry-rhubarb ale, peach hefeweizen or its flagship Barnraiser. In keeping with that backyard feel, Brushfire Smoke BBQ serves up a changing menu of meaty and vegan fare cooked over a flame and with a view to Stratus Vineyard’s pristine grapevines, which hug Oast’s red barn headquarters.

Two Sisters Vineyards, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Two Sisters Vineyards, located in the picturesque region of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, is a renowned destination for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Nestled amidst sprawling vineyards and breathtaking scenery, the winery offers a unique experience that combines exceptional wines, exquisite dining, and a charming ambiance.

Visitors can indulge in the pleasure of dining with wine on the winery’s inviting patio, where they can savor their favorite Two Sisters wines while basking in the beauty of the surrounding vineyards. The patio provides a serene and intimate setting, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal & glass of wine from on-site restaurant Kitchen76.

Creekside Estate Winery, Jordan Station

Leave the city in your rear view when you head west to St. Catharines’ outskirts and the deck at Creekside Estate Winery. Creekside is an award-winning producer of Syrah — and one of the few Niagara wineries teasing consistently remarkable vintages from a grape that doesn’t always fare well in this climate. But everyone fares well on the deck, which conjures relaxation overlooking a koi fish pond, and comfort with charcuterie boards and casual bites by longtime wine country chef Ross Midgley. In addition to wine, Creekside makes a stellar cider, Rood Apples, that pairs well with any summer day.

Honsberger Estate Winery, Jordan Station

Beauty, charm and pizza — there’s not much more a person needs for a memorable patio experience. This family-owned and operated vineyard has a lock on all three. Once considered a hidden gem in Niagara, Honsberger and its outdoor pizza oven is rightfully becoming known as the place to while away a day from May to October. Tipple some of Honsberger’s swoon-worthy vintages or chill out with a non-alcoholic beverage, including a gelato-lemonade sipper or iced coffee. Pets are welcome.

Stoney Ridge Estate Winery, Vineland

It’s easy to miss this winery, set back from King Street, the artery carving a swath along west Niagara’s wine route. But you really don’t want to. Stoney Ridge is home to beautifully manicured rose and flower gardens that conjure Europe and provide an idyllic escape from, well, everything. Enjoy a tasting flight of Stoney Ridge’s diverse wines alongside cheese plates, or save yourself for Fridays and Saturdays when Avella’s Wood Fired Oven pulls up to serve some of the most notable pizzas in Niagara. Take your time taking in the sights and sounds, and enjoy a bottle with Avella’s signature pepperoni, Margherita or Blue Moon.

Stoney Ridge Estate Winery, 3201 King St, Vineland

URL: StoneyRidge.com

Bench Brewing Company, Beamsville

Set at the base of the Niagara Escarpment in Beamsville, Bench Brewing has quickly become as formidable in Niagara’s beer scene as the landform overlooking it. The patio is set in a protected alcove between the century school house that’s the heart of Bench and the ultra-modern addition where the brewing magic happens. Bench is known for its deep tap and bottle list boasting several award-winners. Bench brews hold their own when sipped alone on a warm afternoon or evening. They also pair beautifully with the regional, seasonal fare by chef Erik Peacock, who helms the Bench kitchen.

Bench Brewing Company, 3991 King St, Beamsville

URL: BenchBrewing.com

Redstone Winery, Beamsville

Keep heading west and you’ll find Redstone Winery, which is named for the red clay soil upon which its immaculate vineyards grow. Redstone is home to a spacious and tranquil patio overlooking rows of grapevines as far as the eye can see. In addition to offering wine by the glass and bottle, alone or alongside the locally inspired menu crafted by Chef David Cider, there’s a sizeable lawn to enjoy a packed picnic lunch. Either way, Redstone is a must-stop for enjoying the sun and warmth while it lasts.

The Good Earth, Beamsville

The Good Earth is a beacon of conviviality and its gorgeous patio overlooking English gardens, grapevines and fruit orchards has a lot to do with that. Easily one of the most picturesque and comfortable patios in the region, this outdoor dining and sipping area opens early in the season.

It’s equipped with blankets to protect against the nip in the air that can linger into May and June. And it stays open well into fall for visitors to behold the breathtaking autumn colours that spread along the spine of the Niagara Escarpment in September and October. The Good Earth patio offers a seasonal menu that changes regularly and a solid wine list that goes well with any weather, whether it’s the high heat of July or September’s more easy-going temperatures.

Lake House Restaurant - Vineland Station

What happens when you take a stunning, old Niagara home, pair it with an unparalleled view of Lake Ontario and pepper in an expansive outdoor patio featuring a taste of the Corfu coast? Transport yourself to the Mediterranean seaside with a visit to Lake House Restaurant’s waterfront patio in Vineland Station, open for lunch and dinner. The house’s natural charm offers the perfect place to quench your summer thirsts with Ontario’s finest vintages. Dive into divine dishes and Lake House’s incredible history as the lake laps the shore—and maybe make a friend or two! Said to be one of the first stops for the Underground Railway, the house played an important role in Canada’s history.

The Twenty Valley region is a short visit from the Lake House. Visit the boutique shops in Jordan Village or venture to one of the area’s 35+ wineries

Dispatch - St. Catharines

Named one of Canada’s Top 10 Best New Restaurants by enRoute Magazine, this eco-friendly restaurant offers an adventure through global cuisine on a sunny curbside patio. Creating a personalized and memorable experience for guests (with a few surprises along the way), Dispatch can be found along Niagara’s wine route within the redeveloped Lincoln Theatre in the heart of downtown St. Catharines’ arts district. Stop by for street-side small plates and drinks on a specially designed patio, where great food and summer cocktails await, along with cellar goods and take-home cocktail kits for you to recreate the feeling of sipping something great under the warm Niagara sun from home.

Continue your outdoor adventure with a stroll down to Beechwood Doughnuts for incredible vegan doughnuts before heading along the pathways hugging Twelve Mile Creek.

Lock Street Brewing Company, St. Catharines

Built by the first Lock on the Welland Canal in Port Dalhousie’s Heritage District, Lock Street Brewing Company offers a tucked-away Biergarten where you and your social circle can take your time and enjoy their range of unfiltered, 100% organic brews. Grab a seat at a table by the firepit on the open patio surrounded by trees—you’ll have no trouble sipping suds in this oasis. Taking Ontario craft beer to new heights, Lock Street’s Flagship brews are tried and true favourites, from its Port Side Pilsner and Industrial Pale Ale, to the ‘Jealous Mistress’ English Brown Ale. Looking for something a little different? Dip into an ‘Olde Red’ aged amber ale, with strong caramel and banana notes, or the ‘None the Weisser’ Belgian Witbier to taste the difference natural ingredients make in this brewery’s craftsmanship.

This patio is the perfect destination after a walk down St. Catharine’s Harbour Walkway Trail through nearby Lakeside Park. While your footprints on the park’s sandy beachfront may wash away, the memories of an afternoon well-spent in Niagara’s great outdoors will last for seasons.

Lock Street Brewing Company, 15 Lock St, St. Catharines

URL: Lockstreet.ca

Gate House Restaurant - Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake’s historic downtown street may be one of the region’s most beautiful—and peaceful—destinations for friends, family and couples visiting the region. Pairing one of the newest restaurants with one of the oldest and most historic buildings in NOTL (dating back to the 1700s!), Gate House Kitchen & Café’s shaded terrace overlooking Queen Street is the perfect place to sip your way through the sirahs and sauvignon blancs of the region. Taste the difference Niagara soil makes with fresh dishes using produce from local Thwaites and Ohme Farms, paired with a constantly evolving selection of wines with a focus on Ontario’s top producers of both wine and craft beer. 

After you’ve savoured your patio moment, explore Queen Street’s picturesque shops at your leisure or try something more adventurous on for size with a historic ghost tour or jump on a guided bike ride down the Greater Niagara Circle Route.

The Gate House Restaurant, 142 Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake

URL: TheGateHouse.ca

Taps Brewhouse - Niagara Falls

Great beer requires great food. Taps Brewhouse’s extraordinary menu and craft beers await on their expansive cobblestone patio in downtown Niagara Falls, away from the hustle and bustle of Clifton Hill’s entertainment district. As Niagara’s first and oldest microbrewery, craft beer here is brewed in small batches, but with a lot of love. Sip your way through a flight to discover what sets Taps apart – a must-try is the ‘Art Attack’ IPA, a west-coast style IPA that inspires art-full contrasts of ingredients, or the seasonal ‘Pumpkin 3.14’ (made with real pumpkin!).  Paired with a carefully-crafted menu, the brewery’s greatest bragging right is its chef!

Take a quick, post-pint drive towards the Niagara River and head south to find the legendary views of Niagara Falls. Or, head north to find Niagara helicopter tours, the Whirlpool Aero Car and Whirlpool Beach – the perfect place to start a hike in Niagara’s great outdoors.

With over 450,000 acres of wide-open spaces across the region, Niagara is home to hundreds of patios to safely share a pint or glass with those you love. Whether you prefer privately sipping under the shade of an umbrella or savouring an afternoon under the sun, Niagara’s patios look forward to welcoming you back to great taste in the great outdoors.

Patio Season in Niagara
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