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Niagara’s Big Freeze = Big Icewine Fun

Niagara’s Big Freeze = Big Icewine Fun

While January brings a post-holiday hush to many parts of Ontario, that’s certainly not the case in Niagara. The thermometer’s initial big sub-zero dip, which typically occurs in late December or early January, marks the onset of Niagara’s Icewine harvest, ushering in a fresh crop of frost-fuelled fun.

Icewine is a luxury product that’s a true labour of love for many Niagara wineries. The painstaking process of producing it involves leaving the grapes on the vine until they freeze. Because the grapes are so high in sugar, a frosty 0°C doesn’t cut it when it comes to freezing the fruit’s sweet liquid. In order to comply with Canadian wine laws, grapes used for Icewine must remain on the vine until temperatures drop to at least -8°C. Then grapes are picked, often by hand, and harvested while still frozen. Icewine grapes only produce about a fifth of the juice of their unfrozen counterparts that are harvested in the fall, which is why the product is often affectionately referred to as Liquid Gold.

With glitzy galas, intimate winery events, cocktail-making competitions and outdoor street celebrations, Icewine season in Niagara is an experience that deserves a spot on every wine lover’s bucket list.

Celebrate Icewine Season In Style

The annual Cool as Ice Gala, held at Niagara Parks Power Station, is a one-of-a-kind evening soiree that brings together 25 different Niagara wineries to showcase a decadent selection of Icewines. Guests can also enjoy Icewine cocktails, complementary food pairings prepared by some of Niagara’s most talented chefs, live music and arts performances in a festive atmosphere on the brink of Niagara Falls. Get your tickets early. This January 18 event is sure to sell out!

Taste & Tour

Niagara Wine Festival’s Icewine Discovery Pass, offered on January 10 -12, 17-19, and 24 – 26, invites pass holders to indulge in this celebrated dessert wine with their choice of six seasonal wine and food pairings served at 28 different wineries throughout Niagara. Niagara’s wineries pull out all the stops when it comes to cooking up creative wine and culinary combinations. This year’s 28 delightful pairing duos include Cabernet Sauvignon Icewine and Lemon Cream Shortcake at Creekside Winery, Gewürztraminer Icewine with a savoury Caramelized Onion Tart topped with Double Smoked Bacon, Crème Fraiche, and Aged Cheddar at Malivoire Wine Company and Chef Frank Dodd’s Icewine Chocolate Beignets alongside Cabernet Franc Icewine at Trius. Delicious vegetarian, vegan, and mocktail offerings are available, as is a “mini-pass” for those who only have time to visit three wineries, and a convenient shuttle service.

Visit An Icewine Village

Historic Niagara-on-the-Lake has been taking its Icewine celebrations to the streets each January for over two decades! This year, the town’s Heritage District will transform into a sparkling winter wonderland on January 18, 19, 25 and 26. Local wineries will pour their favourite Icewines for visitors to enjoy alongside tasty food pairings from area restaurants. The friendly weekend event features live music, roaring bonfires, sparkling ice sculptures and plenty of family-friendly Niagara wine country fun.

Set Your Own Course

Those who prefer to dig a little deeper into the Icewine offerings of a specific winery or two have plenty of options to add to their Icewine itinerary. Wineries with dedicated Icewine tours and events include:

Lakeview Wine Co.’s exclusive Ice Flights
Inniskillin’s Icewine Experience
Peller Estates’ Greatest Winery Tour, which includes an Icewine tasting in the 10Below Icewine Lounge, an igloo-like room constructed out of 13,607 kilos of ice and kept at a frosty 10º below zero
Chateau Des Charmes Iced and Glazed Experience
Reif Estate Winery’s Icewine Dinner

Shake and Stir Things Up

Icewine is equally as delicious shaken or stirred into a signature cocktail, and Niagara’s mixologists love to showcase it as an ingredient. Must-try Icewine Martinis to add to your Niagara sipping selection include the offerings at Zees Wine Bar and Grill in Niagara-on-the-Lake, AG Inspired Cuisine, and Prime Steakhouse Niagara Falls. For the ultimate Icewine cocktail experience, be sure to attend Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Icehaus Icewine Cocktail Competition and DJ Party on January 25.

Add Even More Ice

In addition to all the Icewine festivities, frosty temperatures create many other fun ways to experience Niagara on the rocks! Enjoy ice skating on an outdoor rink at Wayne Gretzky Estates or Pillar and Post. If the thermometer makes a drastic drop, catch a rare sighting of Niagara Falls suspended in time. A winter hike at a Niagara Geoparks site that is home to a smaller waterfall, like Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, Louth Conservation Area, Rockway Conservation Area, or Short Hills Provincial Park, is another excellent way to discover the sub-zero spectacle of an icy cascade.

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to start planning your own Icewine getaway? Check out our Wineries, and  Winter pages and @visit_niagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for trip inspiration and to learn about upcoming events. Then, browse through accommodations and dining options to discover places that will perfectly round out your trip!

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Bright Lights. Big Magic. Niagara Flips The Switch on Winter Wonder

Bright Lights. Big Magic.

Niagara Flips The Switch on Winter Wonder

Niagara has a special way of making winter’s long, dark nights feel extra cozy and bright. Incredible light displays, spirited holiday events, one of Canada’s most renowned New Year’s Eve soirees, and a robust roster of post-holiday events running right through March will chase any chance of the winter blahs far, far away.

Look For The Light

Time a trip during Niagara Falls’ Winter Festival of Lights, which runs from November 16 through January 5th, to step into a sparkling scene lit with millions of lights, engaging displays, and interactive experiences along the Niagara Parkway and through the Dufferin Islands.

For a lighting celebration that’s a little smaller in scale, head to Let It Glow – A Celebration of Light displays and events in St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie.

When the holiday season comes to an end, Niagara Falls continues to light up the night with colourful illuminations of the Falls beginning at dusk every evening.

Merry & Bright

Nothing beats a holiday show for getting into the spirit of the season, and Niagara’s December calendar is full of excellent options. Here are just a few:

• The Shaw Festival’s adaptation of A Christmas Carol brings the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge to Niagara-on-the-Lake for a heartwarming performance that’s become a holiday tradition for many.
• Fallsview Casino brings out the holiday magic with a sensational selection of seasonal shows, including the skating spectacular Holiday On Ice, Christmas With The Tenors, and Christmas With Johnny Reid.
• With performances by the Niagara Symphony Orchestra, as well as a diverse range of other holiday concerts, including an Elvis Christmas Special, The Jersey Nights Before Christmas, Natalie MacMaster, Handel’s festive Messiah, Music of a Charlie Brown Christmas, and Choir, Choir, Choir’s interactive Unsilent Night experience, the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre in St. Catharines will be hopping right through the holidays.

Retail That’s Just Right

Whether you’re on the hunt for unique holiday gifts, Boxing Day deals, that perfect winter outfit, or just enjoy browsing around for one-of-a-kind finds, Niagara’s charming shopping districts, malls, winery boutiques, antique stores, and galleries serve up an extensive range of retail options that make shopping really fun! Excellent additions to your retail roster include:

Outlet Collection at Niagara
• Niagara Falls’ Canada One Outlets
• Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Heritage District
Jordan Village
• Port Colborne’s West Street
• Niagara Falls’ Queen Street
Downtown St. Catharines
• Winery retail boutiques stocked with interesting culinary and houseware gift options, like 13th Street Winery, Trius Winery, and Vineland Estates
• Wineries with award-winning Icewines that are perfectly packaged for holiday gifting, such as Konzelmann Estate Winery, Pillitteri Estates Winery, Inniskillin, and Caroline Cellars

Only-in-Niagara NYE Fun

When it comes to memorable places to ring in the new year, Niagara has plenty of excellent options:

• Head to Canada’s Entertainment Capital for a Niagara Falls New Year’s Eve to remember with fireworks displays at both 8 pm and midnight, a special magic show at Greg Frewin Theatrical Centre, live music, and more.
• Many Niagara Falls restaurants offer special New Year’s Eve dinners, including Milestones on the Falls, Fallsview Grand Buffet, and The Rainbow Room by Massimo Capra.
• Travel back in time for an 80s celebration in the Peller Estates Barrel Cellar, complete with an 80s-inspired cocktail bar, a decadent five-course dinner paired with Peller Estates wines, and dancing.

Keep The Party Going All Winter Long

There’s no such thing as post-holiday hibernation in Niagara! The second the festive season wraps up, Niagara’s annual Icewine harvest ushers in a fresh new month of fun celebrations throughout January, including the glamorous Cool As Ice Gala on January 18 at Niagara Parks Power Station, the Icewine Discovery Pass, a popular winery touring option, and Niagara-on-the-Lake’s annual Icewine festivities.

The end of the Icewine harvest doesn’t mean the end of winter fun at Niagara wineries. On February weekends, Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake host their decadent Chocolate and Cheese, a signature event that invites guests to explore the art of pairing wine with chocolate and cheese. Niagara Benchlands Wineries also welcome guests to indulge in cozy wine and food pairings on February weekends with Love The Bench. March’s annual Cuvée weekend is another can’t-miss event for wine lovers, with both a Grand Tasting gala and a winery touring component.

An impressive array of music and comedy acts will also be heating up Niagara’s entertainment scene this winter. Niagara Falls’ OLG Stage will host big-name acts, including The Beach Boys, Morrissey, Diana Krall, Ryan Adams, The Beaches, and Melissa Etheridge. Comedians Craig Ferguson, Billy Gardell, Larry The Cable Guy, Gerry Dee, Tony Hinchcliffe, and Paul Reiser will serve big laughs at the Fallsview Casino. Niagara’s more intimate venues, including the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre and Ridgeway’s The Sanctuary, will host a diverse assortment of critically acclaimed talent, like The Strumbellas, Jully Black, Finger Eleven, Brett Kissel, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Great Lake Swimmers, and Ashley MacIssac.

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to discover some bright lights and big magic of your own in Niagara this winter? Check out our Events, Shopping, Wineries, and  Winter pages and @visit_niagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for trip inspiration and to learn about upcoming events. Then, browse through accommodations and dining options to discover places that will perfectly round out your trip!

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Even More Magical: Add Some Niagara Sparkle To Your Family’s Festive Season

Even More Magical

Add Some Niagara Sparkle To Your Family’s Festive Season

For families eager to create merry new holiday memories, Niagara delivers endless ways to get in the spirit while spending quality time together. Choose from a sleighful of holiday activities, including dazzling light shows, festive performances, and good old-fashioned festive fun throughout Niagara from mid-November through early January.

Step Into A Sparkling Snowglobe

Millions of twinkling lights and beautiful holiday scenes set against the dramatic backdrop of Niagara Falls will make your family feel like they’ve been transported inside a magical snow globe during Niagara Falls’ Winter Festival of Lights from November 16 through January 5. Discover why the Winter Festival of Lights has been wowing crowds for 42 years and has become a cherished family tradition for so many.

In addition to the Winter Festival of Lights, families can find even more seasonal sparkle at the annual Let It Glow – A Celebration of Light, which features beautiful light displays and family-friendly events in St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie.

Surprise Them With A Splash

Santa’s not the only one who can serve up a spectacular holiday surprise. Book a hotel with an incredible waterpark as a home base for your Niagara weekend and you’ll be a holiday hero! Splash the day away at Great Wolf Lodge, Americana Resort, or the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark. Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls – Fallsview and Skyline Hotel and Waterpark all offer direct indoor access to the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark.

Get Your Green On

Why not make this the year your family starts a new tradition of taking a jolly family journey to find that perfect evergreen tree? Niagara’s many nurseries and cut-your-own tree farms make it easy to source spectacular seasonal trees. Great choices include:

Making a holiday urn or centrepiece is another fun way for families to take home Niagara memories to brighten their home all season long. The Watering Can offers kid-friendly workshops as well as take-home urn kits. Hitting one of Niagara’s many farmers’ markets for holiday greenery is another great option for families who want to make their urns from scratch.

Set Out On A Hot Chocolate Hunt

During the Winter Festival of Lights, spend an afternoon tasting your way along Niagara Falls’ self-guided Hot Chocolate Trail. Everyone in your crew can keep track of their favourite chocolatey concoctions created by chocolatiers, chefs and mixologists at 22 of the area’s favourite restaurants and bake shops.

When it’s time to warm chilly toes, head to the Annual Poinsettia Show at the Niagara Parks’ Floral Showhouse. The show, which runs from November through January, features cyclamen, azaleas, Christmas cacti and paperwhite narcissus, and a spectacular display of festive poinsettias.

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to start planning your family’s Niagara holiday breakaway? Check out our Family Fun, Attractions, Winter pages and @visit_niagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for trip inspiration and to learn about upcoming events. Then, browse through accommodations and dining options to discover places that will perfectly round out your trip!

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Make It A Wonder-Filled Winter: Discover Niagara’s Many Off-Season Surprises

Make It A Wonder-Filled Winter

Discover Niagara’s Many Off-Season Surprises

Family trips are a magical time when stepping away from the daily routine ushers in special opportunities for parents to enjoy even more moments of wonder and delight with their kids. From awe-inspiring experiences like standing beneath or flying over one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls to unique interactions with the natural world that leave an equally impactful impression, family trips to Niagara wow in every season.

The Wonder of Nature

Niagara’s famous waterfall isn’t the only captivating example of Mother Nature’s influence to experience when visiting Niagara Falls. Niagara Park’s Butterfly Conservatory, one of North America’s largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories, is a tropical garden oasis with over 2,000 vibrantly coloured butterflies fluttering freely. Kids will adore exploring meandering pathways, watching butterflies at feeding trays, and marvelling at the Emergence Window, where butterflies hang in their pupae stage.

Nature lovers will also adore exploring all the aviary action at Bird Kingdom, the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary. Prepare for awesome memories to be made as your gang hand-feeds Lorikeets, explores the Night Jungle, and meets exotic rainforest creatures, including snakes, tortoises, bearded dragons, and parrots.

If your Niagara getaway coincides with maple syrup season in March and April, White Meadows Farm’s Sugar Bush Trek is a tasty way to wow your crew with the wonders of biology. The 45-minute walking tour includes the quintessentially Canadian experience of making maple taffy on snow. Can’t make it to the farm? Stop by White Meadows’ shops at the Fallsview Casino or in Niagara-on-the-Lake, or make a visit to Maple Leaf Place.

A visit to any of The Niagara Geopark’s 20 Geosites across the Niagara region is another excellent way to open your family’s eyes to the wonder of nature as they discover off-the-radar waterfalls, cliffs, vistas, and gorges that help paint a picture of the Earth’s evolution.

The Wonder of History

A visit to a museum is a great way to make Niagara’s rich past jump out of the history books and into your family’s heart. Head to Niagara Falls History Museum, where kids will love trying on a replica uniform from the War of 1812, feeling the heft of a musket, building a bridge to span the Niagara Gorge and walking a tightrope like daredevils from the past! St. Catharines Museum is also a compelling stop that is home to over 800,000 fascinating artifacts that tell the story of St. Catharines and the Welland Canal. The museum is also home to the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame. In Jordan Village, the Lincoln Museum and Cultural Centre embraces its goal of acknowledging our past for our future with a diverse range of exhibits and programming. Be sure to snap a family photo at the Distelfink located at the museum’s front entrance. This delightful art piece and climber is made in the likeness of the lucky golden finch based on the motifs of the early 1800s Fraktur displayed inside the museum.

The Wonder of Water

Until you’re actually standing within earshot of Niagara Falls, it’s hard to comprehend the sheer power of one-fifth of the world’s freshwater flowing over the Falls! Fortunately, even in the winter, there are some really cool ways to get up close and personal with the Falls.

Journey Behind the Falls offers a unique view of the Falls from below and behind. Visitors descend 125 ft. on an elevator to a short tunnel with access to two outdoor observation decks and two portals located directly behind the Falls.

The Niagara Parks Power Station offers another can’t-miss view of the Falls. After gliding 180 feet down in a glass-paneled elevator, guests walk along a 2,200-foot-long tunnel leading to an observation deck at the river’s edge. An all-new nighttime experience blends state-of-the-art LED lighting technology, immersive sound effects and the iconic backdrop of the illuminated Falls to take guests on a truly unforgettable journey.

After experiencing the wonder of Niagara Falls, let the kids create a big splash of their own at one of the city’s three waterparks. Choose from Great Wolf Lodge, Americana Resort or Fallsview Indoor Waterpark.

Families who prefer their water on the frozen side will want to pack some skates to enjoy a glide at a picture-perfect outdoor rink like those at Wayne Gretzky Estates or Pillar and Post.

The Wonder of Magic

Treat the family to a few hours of enchantment and illusion in Niagara Falls. The Evolution Magic Show is an unforgettable Vegas-style performance featuring International Grand Champion of Magic Greg Frewin alongside Canada’s Lady of Magic, Alexandra.

Be sure to leave some time before or after the show to explore the magical world of Clifton Hill. Interactive attractions like Ripley’s Museum, Ghost Blasters, Wizard’s Mini Golf, and Carnival Chaos will keep the excitement level high!

The Wonder of Flight

For an unparalleled perspective, go up! Niagara Helicopters’ sky-high tours run right through the winter and offer passengers the view of a lifetime that, on a clear day, stretches all the way from Lake Erie to Toronto.

For those who prefer a sky-high view with a slower pace, Niagara SkyWheel delivers a breathtaking panoramic view of Niagara Falls from 175 feet up from the comfort of a climate-controlled gondola. Another fun option is a trip to the top of the Skylon Tower, which combines an exhilarating 52-second ride with the awe of seeing Niagara from 775 feet above the mighty Falls.

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to start planning a wonder-filled Niagara getaway for your family? 

Check out our Family Fun, Attractions, Winter pages and @visit_niagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for trip inspiration and to learn about upcoming events. Then, browse through accommodations and dining options to discover places that will perfectly round out your trip!

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Shake It Up: 8 Delicious Ways to Discover New Foods, Flavours & Sips in Niagara

Shake it Up

8 Delicious Ways To Discover New Foods, Flavours & Sips In Niagara

Is your restaurant routine feeling a little too, well, routine? A quick trip to Niagara is all it takes to inject some exciting new flavours onto your plate and into your glass! Here are just eight of the countless ways to discover a new-to-you side of Niagara’s red-hot culinary, wine, and craft beverage scene on your next visit.

SHAKE IT UP SUGGESTION #1:

Follow The Tire Tracks

If all the buzz about the television series The Bear has you curious to learn more about the mysteries of the MICHELIN Star, Niagara is a tasty place to get schooled. MICHELIN Guides were introduced as a marketing tactic in 1900 by the French tire maker to encourage more people to drive by offering helpful road trip stop suggestions. In the decades since the MICHELIN Guide has gone on to become one of the world’s most respected sources of restaurant reviews. Anonymous MICHELIN Inspectors travel the globe, assigning one, two, or three MICHELIN Stars for the restaurants they deem to be worthy of distinction. The MICHELIN Guide also assigns Recommended Restaurant status to places with the potential to qualify for a star in the future and Green Stars to establishments that are actively committed to sustainable gastronomy.

Recently, Niagara has caught the attention of MICHELIN Inspectors. Niagara Benchlands’ Restaurant Pearl Morissette has earned its first MICHELIN Star as well as Green Star status. Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Trius Winery Restaurant and St. Catharines’ Fat Rabbit both scored Recommended Restaurant status in the 2024 MICHELIN Guide.

SHAKE IT UP SUGGESTION #2:

Take It Two Bites At A Time

Niagara’s many winery touring passport events offer another great way to try award-winning wines paired with a wide range of small-plate culinary offerings from top winery restaurants and local chefs, all in a single afternoon. During the winter months, great options include Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Taste The Season and Chocolate and Cheese signature events, and Niagara Benchlands Wineries’ Get Wrapped Up and Love The Bench weekends.

SHAKE IT UP SUGGESTION #3:

Expand Your Pairing Perspective

Niagara’s growing collection of craft breweries also pours an impressive selection of food and beverage pairings. There are tasty tipple and food options at all 19 craft brewery stops along the Niagara Ale Trail, including Cold Break Brewing, Counterpart Brewing, and Silversmith Brewing Co. Be sure to ask your server to recommend their favourite beer and culinary companions.

SHAKE IT UP SUGGESTION #4:

Feed Your Eyes Too

A meal should be a feast for all the senses, and Niagara’s stunning waterfalls, snow-covered Escarpment, and frosty vineyards offer amazing views for diners. Niagara Falls restaurants that serve up a killer view of The Falls include Prime Steakhouse located inside the historic Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls – Fallsview, Table Rock House Restaurant, and Watermark Fallsview Dining, located on the 33rd floor of Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites, and Skylon Tower’s Revolving Dining Room. For stunning Niagara Escarpment views, reserve a table at Megalomaniac or Vineland Estates. Restaurants that boast lovely vineyard views include Kitchen 76 at Two Sisters Vineyards, Oaklands Restaurant at Riverbend Inn and Vineyard, and The Restaurant at Redstone Winery.

SHAKE IT UP SUGGESTION #5:

Find Global Flavours That Locals Love

Whether you’re topping up your gas tank, checking out the produce at a farmers’ market, or chatting with your server at a winery or craft brewery, asking Niagara locals about their favourite local places to enjoy global flavours is a great way to find your way to some culinary gems you might otherwise miss. Taste for yourself why locals flock to Port Colborne’s The Smokin’ Buddha for tasty Thai, Niagara Falls’ Dhaba On The Falls for North Indian favourites, Ma Chinese Cuisine in St. Catharines, and Masaski Sushi in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

SHAKE IT UP SUGGESTION #6:

Keep It Class-y

Many of Niagara’s chefs, mixologists, and other tastemakers are incredibly passionate about sharing their knowledge with others. Spending a few hours learning some new tips and tricks is a fun way to broaden your food and beverage perspective. Delicious options include Strewn’s Wine Country Cooking School, The Good Earth Food and Wine Co., pasta classes at Casa Mia Ristorante, and The Whisky Bartender interactive experience at Wayne Gretzky Estates. Enjoying lunch at Niagara College’s award-winning on-campus restaurant, Benchmark, is another creative way to get schooled in the region’s culinary scene. Students from the college’s culinary and hospitality programs work back- and front-of-house to wow guests with a three-course price-fix menu.

SHAKE IT UP SUGGESTION #7:

Switch Up Your Culinary Clock

Culinary creatures of habit who tend to always enjoy the same meal out will find endless inspiration for a memorable dining experience at a new time of day in Niagara. Swap a decadent dinner for a beautiful locally sourced and Feast On-certified Sunday brunch at Queenston Heights Restaurant. Hit snooze on Saturday morning breakfast and enjoy late-afternoon tapas at Odd Bird or Just Cooking Rustic Italian instead.

SHAKE IT UP SUGGESTION #8:

Blend History and Modern Cuisine

Experience the intersection of history and modern cuisine in Niagara-on-the-Lake on December 7 when celebrated Indigenous Chefs Tawnya Brant and Aicha Smith-Belghaba present a multi-course dinner highlighting the rich culinary traditions and seasonal ingredients of their heritage. The Great Taste of Canada Experience, hosted in Navy Hall at Fort George, will evoke community, connection, and celebration with an Indigenous opening ceremony, a variety of thoughtfully crafted courses, and stories shared by the Chefs.

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to bite into a flavour-filled Niagara adventure? Check out our Restaurants, Wineries, Craft Beer, Cider, Spirits pages and @visit_niagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for trip inspiration and to learn about upcoming events. Then, browse through accommodations and dining options to discover places that will perfectly round out your trip!

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Good things are made with love and grown close to home

Warm Up Your Winter: 7 Cozy Niagara Couples Escape Ideas

Warm Up Your Winter

7 Cozy Niagara Couples Escape Ideas

There’s something extra romantic about Niagara in the winter. Long nights, breathtaking lights, fun activities for two, and a chill in the air create an equation for cozy couples getaways that’s hard to beat. Here are just a few of the many ways to enjoy some quality time with someone special this winter in Niagara.

Indulge In Some Spa Time For Two

Instead of heading off on your own to enjoy treatments on your next visit to a Niagara spa, treat yourself to some self-care time together. Spas, treatment options, and packages to keep in mind as you plan your Niagara couples getaway include:

Sterling Inn and Spa, where all services offered in the spa are available as side-by-side couples treatments.
• The Couples Massage at White Oaks Resort and Spa or Spa On The Twenty.
• The Reconnect For Two Hours package at Christienne Fallsview Spa which includes both a side-by-side Stress Relief Massage and a Body Glow Exfoliation treatment.
• The Halotherapy Salt Lounge and Sound Bath experience at Spa at Q’s 12,000-square foot spa.
• The Hydrotherapy Circuit at Burning Springs Spa and Thermal Pools.

Get Lost In The Lights

Couples who love taking a romantic evening stroll together will want to time their trip during Niagara Falls’ Winter Festival of Lights. The Festival, which runs from November 16 through January 5th, captures the magic of the season with millions of twinkling lights, engaging displays, and interactive experiences along the Niagara Parkway and through the Dufferin Islands.

While smaller in scale, Let It Glow – A Celebration of Light, offers another excellent option for an illuminated evening stroll in St. Catharines and Port Dalhousie.

Those who prefer to enjoy an illuminated view with a delicious meal can opt for a dinner at a restaurant with a front-row seat to Niagara Falls when it’s all aglow. Niagara Falls is transformed into an incredible, multi-coloured water and light masterpiece each night at dusk. Check the Illumination Schedule, as the Falls are often lit in special colours for charities to mark a significant date in support of their cause.

Sip Liquid Gold Together

Bundling up and enjoying the frosty festivities of Niagara’s annual Icewine harvest in January is an entertaining way for couples to shake off winter’s chill together. Activities to consider adding to your agenda include:

• The glamorous Cool As Ice Gala on January 18 at Niagara Parks Power Station.
• Winery touring events, like the Icewine Discovery Pass.
• Peller Estates’ Greatest Winery Tour, which includes the chance to sip Icewine in Niagara’s only igloo-like lounge, the 10Below Icewine Lounge.

If you’re visiting Niagara before January, be sure to stop by some wineries to browse through beautiful Icewine sets that are perfectly packaged for holiday gifting. Niagara wineries that have cultivated loyal followings of Icewine lovers include Konzelmann Estate Winery, Pillitteri Estates Winery, Inniskillin, and Caroline Cellars.

Take Things Fireside

Sampling wines beside a crackling fire is another cozy option for enjoying some couple time in Niagara. Wineries known for their welcoming fireside experiences include 13th Street Winery, Lakeview Wine Co., De Simone Vineyards, Peller Estates, Niagara Custom Crush Studio and Konzelmann Estate Winery.

Set Out On A Relaxing Rural Roam

Finding a great playlist, getting a steaming cup of coffee, and heading out on a Niagara road trip together is always a fun way to spend a winter afternoon together. To guarantee lots of interesting stops along the way, use one of Niagara’s many touring routes or seasonal tasting programs as your guide:

• Designate a driver and tour your way to a collection of different wineries courtesy of one of Niagara’s winter winery passport weekends like Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Taste The Season and Chocolate and Cheese signature events, or Niagara Benchlands Wineries’ Get Wrapped Up and Love The Bench weekends.
• Follow the Niagara Ale Trail and choose from over 20 stops at the region’s boutique-like breweries and cideries.
• Get to know the many farms, markets and bake shops that call Niagara Benchlands home by exploring the CultivATE Taste Trail.

Add Some Music & Drama To The Equation

Niagara’s live arts scene sets the stage for a memorable night out together enjoying music, comedy shows, and dramatic performances. Can’t-miss musical events on the calendar in the months ahead at Niagara Falls’ OLG Stage include The Beach Boys, Morrissey, Diana Krall, Ryan Adams, The Beaches, and Melissa Etheridge. The Shaw Festival wraps up 2024 with two favourites: A Christmas Carol and My Fair Lady.

Comedians including Craig Ferguson, Billy Gardell, Larry The Cable Guy, Gerry Dee, Tony Hinchcliffe, and Paul Reiser will all be serving up big laughs at the Fallsview Casino. Niagara’s more intimate venues, including the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre and Ridgeway’s The Sanctuary, will host a diverse assortment of critically acclaimed talent, like The Strumbellas, Jully Black, Finger Eleven, Brett Kissel, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Great Lake Swimmers, and Ashley MacIssac.

Hunker Down In A New-To-You Winter Hideaway

While there is no shortage of romantic activities to enjoy on a winter day in Niagara, finding a place that makes you feel like you’re a million miles away is never a bad choice! Lovely places to press pause include:

• The oh-so-dramatic Black Room or one of the other themed suites at Hotel Philco in Crystal Beach.
• A King Suite complete with fireplace and jetted tub at Harbour House in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
• The peaceful Room P at The Juniper Waterside Inn, which features three different views of Port Dalhousie.
• A Fallsview Tower King room at Tower Hotel Niagara Falls Fallsview, a beautifully renovated boutique hotel located within a former observation tower near the brink of the Falls.
• Your own private vineyard vacation rental located at renowned wineries like Vineland Estates Winery, Cave Spring Vineyard, Alvento Winery, and Vieni Estate.

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to start planning your romantic Niagara getaway? Check out our Shopping and Spas, Winter, Wineries, Arts & Entertainment pages and @visit_niagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for trip inspiration and to learn about upcoming events. Then, browse through accommodations and dining options to discover places that will perfectly round out your trip!

Stay

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Good things are made with love and grown close to home

Niagar-ahhhh: 6 Top Tips For A World-Class Winter Wellness Escape

Niagar-ahhhh

6 Top Tips For A World-Class Winter Wellness Escape

With award-winning spas, incredible backdrops for fresh air fun, and a host of relaxing activities to enjoy, Niagara is an ideal destination for those needing some time to top up their tanks. While a single-day shot of self-care is certainly doable, adding an overnight stay delivers rush-free relaxation that transforms a trip from a quick getaway to a true escape. Round up your favourite spa pals; it’s time for a winter wellness reconnect in Niagara!

WINTER WELLNESS ESCAPE TIP #1:

Schedule In Some Spa Time

Make some reservations in advance at Niagara’s award-winning spas to score coveted spots for one-of-a-kind warming winter pampering like:

The Spa at White Oaks Resort’s Hot Stone Treatment
100 Fountain Spa at Pillar and Post’s Yon-Ka Wellness Voyage Body Wrap
Secret Garden Spa at Prince of Wales Hotel’s Bio Effect EGF Imprinting Facial
Christienne Fallsview Spa at Sheraton Fallsview Hotel’s Infinity Hydrotherapy Tub
Burning Springs Spa and Thermal Pools at Marriot Niagara Falls Fallsview’s three-pool hydrotherapy process
Spa On The Twenty’s BABOR Experience Wrap

WINTER WELLNESS ESCAPE TIP #2:

Embrace the Chill

Don’t let winter weather keep you from enjoying some time outside. A blast of fresh air on a crisp winter day is an excellent way to coax your body out of hibernation mode. Fun activities to get your gang outside and moving include:

• A hike exploring one of Niagara’s 20 remarkable Geoparks
• A snowshoe through the vineyard at Thirty Bench Wine Makers
• An outdoor skate at Wayne Gretzky Estates or Pillar and Post
• A blustery Great Lakes stroll on the Port Dalhousie Pier or Bay Beach in Crystal Beach

WINTER WELLNESS ESCAPE TIP #3:

Stretch It Out

Yoga with friends is always a good idea and easy to accomplish while visiting Niagara thanks to many studios that offer single pass options, such as:

Alchemy Yoga in Niagara Falls
Bridgewater Yoga in Chippawa (check out their special Puppy Yoga and Taylor Swift Eras Tour Yoga classes)
Lost ‘n Found Yoga in St. Catharines
The Yoga Vine in Grimsby
Stream Yoga in Port Colborne

WINTER WELLNESS ESCAPE TIP #4:

Bask In The Art of The Browse

While shopping for a specific item can feel like a chore, shopping with no end goal in mind is a whole different exercise. Discover the relaxing side of retail in unique shopping districts like Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Heritage District, Jordan Village, Port Colborne’s West Street, Niagara Falls’ Queen Street and Downtown St. Catharines.

Seasonal markets, like The Handmade Market at the Niagara Falls Convention Centre, Reif Estate Winery’s Holiday Market, and the Deck The Halls Holiday Market at the Niagara Falls Exchange, are a fun way to discover local artisans and their one-of-a-kind wares.

Those who prefer the adrenalin hit that comes with finding a designer deal will want to schedule some time at the Outlet Collection at Niagara and Niagara Falls’ Canada One Outlets.

WINTER WELLNESS ESCAPE TIP #5:

Graze With Your Wellness Goals In Mind

There’s no reason a few days away with friends has to take your wellness goals off track, especially if you’re visiting Niagara. Those trying to incorporate more plants in their diet will be spoiled for choice at beloved vegetarian and vegan purveyors in Niagara, like Rise Above Restaurant and Plant No.1, or restaurants with incredible vegan options like Moksha Indian Bistro and Revalee Brunch Café. If reducing sugar is a priority, sipping your way through some low-sugar wines at Niagara wineries like Lakeview Wine Co. and Fielding Estate Winery is a fun way to spend an afternoon. Friends embracing the sober-curious lifestyle can enjoy zero-alcohol beverages like Bench Brewing’s Hop Water, Vineland Estate’s alcohol-free wines, or marvelous mocktails at Cured Charcuterie and Cocktails, 335 On The Ridge, and Dispatch Restaurant.

WINTER WELLNESS ESCAPE TIP #6:

Leave Plenty of Time To Unwind

Booking accommodations with cozy perks like fireplaces, comfy couches for lounging, and luxurious soaker tubs will help encourage everyone in your group to press the pause button on life for a few hours. Excellent choices include:
Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Riverbend Inn, Niagara Falls’ Sterling Inn and Spa, St. Catharines Stone Mill Inn, South Coast Guest House in Port Colborne, and Inn The Orchard’s beautiful Niagara Benchlands cabins.

Plan Your Getaway 

Are you ready to start planning your Niagara winter wellness escape? Check out our Shopping and Spas, Winter, Outdoor Sports, Restaurants pages and @visit_niagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for trip inspiration and to learn about upcoming events. Then, browse through accommodations and dining options to discover places that will perfectly round out your trip!

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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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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!

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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

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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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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.

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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.

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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! 

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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.

View Niagara Skywheel

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.

View Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

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. 

View Waves Indoor Waterpark

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.

View Winter Festival of Lights

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.

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Icewine igloo

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.

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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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