WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE
Niagara-on-the-Lake may be known for its wineries, but the charming town on the shores of Lake Ontario offers much more.
Located about two hours from Toronto by car, the town is a picturesque community with tree-lined boulevards flanked by gorgeous 19th-century buildings. On the opposite sides of town are two forts, both designated as national historic sites. And just steps away from the main street is the western bank of the Niagara River, facing the American shoreline.
The town’s most popular attraction is the Shaw Festival, a repertory theatre company specializing in the works of Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries. Visitors from across the province and the U.S. flock to the town’s three theatres each year to catch the festival’s Broadway-calibre productions, which begin in spring and run through December.
If you’re heading to Niagara-on-the-Lake this year, here’s a list of recommendations to make the most of your trip.
Attractions
■ The Shaw Festival, running through December, mounts a diverse mix of plays and musicals across four main stages.
■ Fort Mississauga is a national historic site located on the mouth of the Niagara River, with stunning views of Lake Ontario.
■ Fort George, another national historic site, transports visitors to another era with its costumed interpreters and guides.
■ Queen’s Royal Park is a quaint greenspace with a public beach and cute gazebo that overlooks the Niagara River and, on a clear day, the Toronto skyline.
Restaurants
■ Niagara’s Finest Thai, just steps away from the Festival Theatre, serves up delicious Thai classics, like satay, pad see ew and khao soi.
■ Kitchen76 is a fine-dining restaurant located at the Two Sisters Vineyards, offering Italian-inspired dishes, including a wonderful rigatoni bolognese.
■ The Irish Harp Pub, in a local heritage building, transports diners to Ireland with its traditional grub, beer and live music.
■ The Budapest Bakeshop specializes in sweet and savoury chimney cakes, which make for a fantastic light meal or midday treat.
■ Treadwell, located on the town’s main street, serves classic Canadian dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner in an upscale environment.
Shopping
■ Old Niagara Bookshop, located in a beautiful house, is nestled on a quiet side street and features an array of bestsellers and rare finds.
■ It’s All Fun and Games is a board gamer’s paradise, filled with rows upon rows off classic games, puzzles, playing cards and toys.
■ Just Christmas is a labyrinth of a store selling Christmas decorations and Yuletide-themed trinkets all year round.
Accommodations
■ Butler Creek House is a charming bread and breakfast tucked in a quiet corner of town, featuring well-appointed rooms and friendly hosts.
■ The Shaw Club, located just across the road from the Festival Theatre, is a stylish hotel with moderns rooms and an on-site restaurant.
■ The Prince of Wales is a Victorian-era hotel in the heart of town offering the highest of luxury.