This charming towns offers wineries, spas, a world-class theater festival, gourmet dining and lots of history.
Built on the southwest shore of Lake Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a picture-perfect town. It’s full of beautifully restored 18th and 19th century houses, many of them converted into inns or bed and breakfast accommodations. Profusions of flowers adorn parks and gardens in spring and summer. Charming shops selling wine, cheese and other food — as well as other items to browse and buy — line the main street. You won't find many fast-food joints here, but there are restaurants and pubs to satisfy every taste. A big plus is that the town’s surrounded by one of Canada's finest wine regions.
Stroll along Queen Street, located in the picturesque Heritage District, for window shopping. Or, buy regional wine and cheese to enjoy at one of the town’s lovely beaches. Take in a round of golf on a course that stretches along the southwest shore of Lake Ontario or mount up for a horse and carriage tour of the town. These depart from the Prince of Wales hotel in the town's center.
History buffs should head to one of the many historic sites around town. Guided tours are offered through Fort George on the east side of town. It’s well worth the price for a well-informed costumed local to teach you some of the local history. This town was entrenched in the war of 1812 when the British, aided by Canadian Militia, fought the United States.
Visit between April and October to see a performance at the Shaw Festival, named for one of Ireland’s greatest playwrights, George Bernard Shaw. The festival has been a well-attended annual summer event since 1962.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is about 30 minutes’ drive north of Niagara Falls, along the Niagara River Parkway and Queen’s Parade. It’s located in Ontario, on the Canadian side of the Niagara River.