Niagara-on-the-Lake
Best known as Canada’s Niagara wine region, a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake isn’t complete without touring a local winery. If you’re sipping your way through town, you might also try one of the craft breweries and distilleries in the area.
This quaint village also offers many outdoor activities, including great guided and self-guided cycling tours. Experience charming old-world architecture and a wealth of history at Fort George National Historic Site. View the Niagara River, Fort Niagara and New York State from the iconic gazebo at Queen’s Royal Park in downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Where is Niagara-on-the-Lake?
Niagara-on-the-Lake is located in Southern Ontario, roughly a 25-minute drive north of Niagara Falls. The city is also approximately one hour from Hamilton, and 1.5 hours from the Greater Toronto Area via the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW Highway). The surrounding region is most easily visited by car and bus.
From May to October, the WEGO shuttle offers service between Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls.
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Things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Explore by bike
Take a bike tour around Niagara-on-the-Lake with stops at local wineries for snacks and wine tastings or rent a bike and pedal your way on a self-guided excursion.
Attend a wine festival
For two weeks every January, the Niagara Icewine Festival transforms the town into a winter wonderland with plenty of opportunities to sample some of the region's best Icewine and cuisine.
Visit a historic fort
Explore the region’s history at Fort George National Historic Site, a Parks Canada attraction that offers insight into over 250 years of Canadian history, including the War of 1812.
Enjoy local history and special events
Visit the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum, home to one of Ontario’s most important collections of Upper Canadian history. Popular events include heritage garden parties and the Niagara Polo match on The Commons.
Hike in a nature reserve
Explore the region’s Carolinian forest at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre set atop the Niagara Gorge overlooking the Niagara River.
Sample local wines
Discover the many wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake and spend an afternoon sampling this year’s production along with locally sourced foods and tasting menus. Guided tours are available.
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Last updated: February 24, 2025