Location
Where is Niagara-on-the-Lake? We’re just a 20-minute drive along the beautiful Niagara River Parkway from Niagara Falls; a 90-minute drive along the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) from Toronto; a 75-minute drive from Toronto’s L.B. International Airport; a 50-minute drive from Buffalo’s International Airport in northern New York State; and a comfortable day’s drive from New York City, Detroit and points in between.
A car is recommended if you plan to tour the Niagara Region, but not necessary if you intend to spend your entire time in the Old Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. If you do not plan to rent a car at any of the airports, Niagara Airbus provides door-to-door service between all of the airports and Globetrotters B&B/Gallery in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Make your reservations online at www.niagaraairbus.com and save 10% or call them direct at 905-374-8111 in Niagara or 716-835-8111 in Buffalo, NY.
Niagara Airbus also offers winery tours, sightseeing tours throughout the Niagara Region and Toronto and inter-city transfers.
What’s there to do in
Niagara-on-the-Lake?
In a single word—plenty. The small historic Old Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a range of activities for all ages and interests: a repertoire of live theatrical performances at the Shaw Festival; historical, architectural and winery tours; a host of great shopping and dining venues; hiking, biking and horseback riding trails; as well as a huge variety of unique sightseeing tours in and around Niagara Falls.
Some of our star attractions for the upcoming season are listed below for your convenience.
For a full listing of events and attractions Niagara-on-the-Lake has to offer, click here.
For information on sightseeing tours in Niagara Falls and the Discover Niagara Pass, click here.
For your dining pleasure:
Looking for a restaurant that offers quality food and service at reasonable prices? We highly recommend the following:
Stone Road Grille, 238 Mary Street (Garrison Plaza), Niagara-on-the-Lake: 905-468-3474.
Old Winery Restaurant, 2228 Niagara Stone Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake: 905-468-8900;
For a more complete listing of dining options in Niagara-on-the-Lake, visit www.niagaraonthelake.com and click on Dining.
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE?
For information on what is happening each month, scroll down to our list of upcoming events.
THERE’S ALWAYS LOTS TO SEE AND DO IN NIAGARA—
EVEN ON RAINY DAYS *
ALL ABOARD THE TORONTO–NIAGARA BIKE TRAIN !
The Toronto-Niagara Bike Train is a new initiative that introduced bike racks on board VIA Rail Canada service between Toronto and the Niagara Region. The Bike Train provides travellers with a unique and sustainable way to discover the Niagara Region’s renowned tourism and cycling opportunities. For information on schedules, prices and packages, visit www.biketrain.ca.
BACKSTAGE AT THE SHAW FESTIVAL
Take a guided one-hour Backstage Tour at the Shaw Festival Theatre every
Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday to learn about the history and unique
operations of this repertory theatre company and the many facets of theatre
production. Tickets are just $5. Book tickets in advance by calling
1-800-511-7429 or visit www.shawfest.com.
BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY *
2405 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls
In a tropical rainforest setting you explore an ingenious network of pathways among lush, exotic flora. Everywhere there are exquisite butterflies floating in the warm, moist air and spreading their iridescent wings on leaves and flowers. It’s magical.
ZOOM CYCLING TOURS AND BIKE RENTALS
What's new here is the location. ZOOM has moved to 431 Mississauga. Until
April 1, they are open subject to weather (most days) and starting May 1,
they are open 9-5, seven days a week. Call 905-468-4691 or visit
www.zoomleisure.com.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Scenic trails meander on the Niagara Escarpment offering panoramic views of the Niagara region and beyond. Trail rides take approximately 45 minutes and cost $30 per person. Rides are available year-round with winter rides when weather permits. Conveniently located within 15 minutes of Niagara Falls and Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Contact: Dinah McGibbon, Niagara Riding Stables
Address: 471 Warner Road, Niagara on the Lake, ON
Tel: 905.262.5101
Website: www.niagarariding.com
IMAX THEATRE NIAGARA FALLS *
Experience The Falls inside. The IMAX Theatre Niagara Falls, home of one of the most spectacular IMAX adventures of all time, presents Niagara: Miracles, Myths and Magic. In 45 minutes, you will witness Niagara Falls’ incredible stories that would take a lifetime to experience.
JACKSON-TRIGGS EVENTS
SAVOUR THE SIGHTS: This year’s Savour the Sights dates are March 20, April 17, May 15, September 25, October 30, November 20 and December 11, 2010. It all begins at 6:30 p.m., at a cost of $145 per person. Enjoy an epicurean experience including five courses of fine wine and food served in picturesque locations throughout the winery. The first course, a selection of assorted hors d’oeuvres and sparkling wine, is served in the Great Hall. This is followed by a second course in the Atrium of the fermentation room. A third course is served in the Tasting Gallery with its view of the vineyard. A fourth is served at candlelit tables amidst oak barrels in the vaulted ceiling Barrel Cellar.
TWILIGHT IN THE VINEYARD: Every year open-air amphitheatre series is offered July through September. For an unsurpassed combination of award-winning wines, gourmet food and the performing arts, check their website at www.jacksontriggswinnery.com or call 905-468-4637, Ext. 226 to reserve your seat.
LONDON CAB SERVICE AROUND NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE
Try this unique, safe and inexpensive mode of transportation. They'll pick you up and return you to our door. Stay and enjoy your time as long as you want, then simply call them when you are ready to return. Call Matthew or David Mole at 905-262-0005 or visit www.niagaraclassiccabs.com for a list of services and tours provided.
NIAGARA VINTAGE WINE TOURS
Planning a wine tour? Join Chris on a day tour to the best wineries in the Niagara area that includes a three-course gourmet lunch. Or how about an evening tour that includes a four-course wine and food pairing dinner? If you have ideas of your own, Chris will help you work out the details. And Globetrotters guests also receive a very special discounted rate. Call us at 1-866-835-4446 or Chris at 905-933-7433 for details and savings.
MAID OF THE MIST *
5920 River Road, Niagara Falls
Truth is, you’re going to get wet anyway, so what if it’s raining! This is as good a time as any to take the tour. They’ll even provide you with slickers and rubber boots to keep you as dry as possible as they transport you to the base of the Falls. This is one half-hour adventure you will never forget! Call 905-358-5781.
MV SENATOR RIVER CRUISES *
From early May through mid-October, the 140-passenger Senator offers regular daily sightseeing cruises as well as Cruise ’n Dine specials. It is also available for exclusive charters. Embarkations are at Navy Hall Dock. Call 905-468-0114 between 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. to book your cruise. Tickets can also be purchased directly from Niagara River Cruises, their sales kiosk located at the docks by Navy Hall.
NIAGARA FALLS AVIARY *
5651 River Road, Niagara Falls
The Aviary is home to more than 300 tropical birds from around the world; some are free flying while others are observational exhibits. It’s well worth a visit.
NIAGARA'S FURY
Daredevils used to tempt fate by going over Niagara Falls in a barrel. Now ordinary visitors can experience the extreme and violent birth of Niagara Falls at an interactive multi-million dollar attraction called Niagara’s Fury. Inside the new Table Rock located at the brink of the Falls, Niagara’s Fury immerses you in the sights, sounds and sensations of Niagara’s birth with bone-chilling cold as the floor begins to tremble and the theatre explodes in sound and monstrous glaciers calve and crash all around. To see an overview of the Fury experience first-hand, visit niagarasfury.com. Photo credit: Niagara Parks.
NIAGARA FALLS SCENIC TOURS
Avoid and eliminate traffic problems, parking fees, confusion, guide and service fees, and let this company look after that for you. Just bring your camera and relax. They offer fully narrated sightseeing tours with licensed knowledgeable guides on air-conditioned buses. Call 905-354-6099 or 1-888-325-5786.
NIAGARA’S ONE-OF-A-KIND GIANT OBSERVATION SKYWHEEL *
It’s big, it’s round and it spins! Canada’s largest observation wheel is now open. At 175 feet tall (53 metres), the Niagara SkyWheel is the newest, most exciting way to see Niagara Falls. This world-class ride features fully enclosed heated and air-conditioned gondolas, for year-round comfort and enjoyment. Operating from 9am to 1am daily, rides last between 12 to 15 minutes and tickets cost $9.99/adult and $5.99/child under 10. Call 905-358-4793 or visit www.cliftonhill.com/packages.
NIAGARA TOTEM POLE & WOODCARVING PARK AT NIAGARA GLEN
The new Niagara Totem Pole and Woodcarving Park — North America’s largest totem pole garden — is located along the Niagara Parkway about one kilometre (.5 mile) north from the Whirlpool golf Course. The four-acre park will eventually feature a collection of 500 hand-carved, one-of-a-kind totem poles created over 25 years by Master Carver, Frank Kim, from South Korea. On-site carving, interactive demonstrations and guided tours are also featured in this peaceful environment overlooking the Great Gorge. Parking on site. Admission fees apply. Customers purchasing Niagara Falls & Great Gorge Adventure Pass receive coupons worth $2 off to Totem Park.
OUTLET MALL RETAIL THERAPY *
7500 Lundy’s Lane at the QEW, Niagara Falls
Shop till you drop at 40 brand-name stores at Canada One Factory Outlets in Niagara Falls. Call 1-866-284-5781.
PHANTOM TROLLEY TOURS
Step back in time and experience the haunting tales and scandalous stories behind the prettiest town in Canada. Enjoy a horse-drawn trolley tour (don’t worry, they’ll keep you dry and warm as toast) through the back lanes of Olde Town. You will be served a sumptuous, four-course food and wine pairing served in full period costume — a culinary adventure in regional cuisine — a fine selection of VQA wines. Be entertained by the Lord Mayor Kent of Newark 1837 and his Lady Clair. Minstrels, music and merriment for all. Call 905-262-6021 or toll-free 1-866-742-6866.
THE SHAW FESTIVAL *
The stage is set for the Shaw Festival, which runs from April 1 to October 31, 2010. Full details are found at www.shawfest.com or call 1-800-511-SHAW.
SKYLON TOWER *
5200 Robinson Street, Niagara Falls
Take a ride up to the observation deck of the Skylon Tower for a breathtaking view of Niagara Falls and the surrounding countryside. Call 905-356-2651.
SPA-A-A-A-A-AH LUSCIOUS (the perfect rainy day escape *)
Book an in-room Reiki treatment (in Moulin Rouge and Sultan’s Tent only). Advance reservations are necessary.
In-room Massages (available in Moulin Rouge and Sultan's Tent only) Dave, a registered massage therapist and former nurse, offers deep tissue and relaxation therapy, while Amy offers hot stone massages. Advance reservations are necessary.
Vintage Inn Spas: You have a choice: 100 Fountain Spa in the Pillar and Post located nearby at the corner of John and King Streets or, Secret Garden Spa at Prince of Wales at the corner of King and Picton Streets. Ask us about discounts (for Globetrotters B&B guests only) and their Day Spa pass.
WELLAND CANAL MUSEUM *
Government Road, St. Catharines
If you only have time for one canal stop, the Lock 3 Viewing Complex and Museum is the place to go. The complex houses a tourist information and interpretive centre complete with ship schedules, the St. Catharines Historical Museum, the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame, a restaurant, picnic areas and free parking. Climb the special viewing platform where you can look down on the decks of gigantic ships as they manoeuvre through the locks with only inches to spare and climb or descend “the highest water staircase” this side of China.
WHIRLPOOL JET BOAT TOURS *
61 Melville Street at the Marina, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Again, this is as good a time as any to take this moving adventure since you’re going to get wet anyway. Be sure to bring along a FULL change of clothing to change into after the ride — and we mean underwear and all. For those who don’t want to get wet, there’s a covered boat excursion as well. Tickets are available through the Chamber of Commerce or give Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours a call at 905-468-4800.
WINERY EVENTS HAPPEN YEAR-ROUND
Niagara-on-the-Lake
For a full listing of wine events scheduled throughout the year, visit
www.niagaraonthelake.com. Here are a few to watch for in 2008:
• Peller Estate Winery lectures and seminars throughout the year *
• Jackson-Triggs Twilight in the Vineyard Summer Concert Series, June–September
• Hillebrand Jazz at the Winery in July
• Hillebrand Blues at the Winery in AugustKonzelmann Winery Lakefront Summer BBQs
• Reif Winery Calypso Cruise in September
• Reif Winery Wine & Cheese Seminar in October
WILLOWBANK HERITAGE ESTATE *
Queenston
Throughout the year, hands-on workshops, seminars, lectures, historical walks and performances are featured at the Willowbank Heritage Estate in Queenston. For information on upcoming events, call 905-262-1239 or visit www.willowbank.ca.
UPCOMING EVENTS IN 2010:
JANUARY 2010:
Festival Film Series:
Every Saturday during the months of January and February, enjoy a feature-length film selected from the September 2009 Film Festival lineup. Movie time is 3 p.m. at the Festival Theatre, and tickets cost $11 per person.
Icewine Festival:
Enjoy live jazz at the Courthouse, followed by a seminar lead by wine personalities from wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Seminars take place at 1 and 3 p.m., January 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31. Space is limited to 24 people per seminar. Cost per seminar is $20. Call 905-468-1950 to reserve your spot. Also on January 23, from 9 to 11 p.m., Queen Street comes to life with Jazz and an exciting Icewine Cocktail Competition. Admission is free; cocktails are just $5 each.
FEBRUARY 2010:
Festival Film Series:
Every Saturday during the months of January and February, enjoy a feature-length film selected from the September 2009 Film Festival lineup. Movie time is 3 p.m. at the Festival Theatre, and tickets cost $11 per person.
Days of Wine and Chocolate
Celebrate your love every weekend in February at 21 wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Fabulicious:
From February 25 through March 1, here is an incredible opportunity to dine at 17 of the finest restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake with special three-course menus at amazing prices ranging from $20 to $25 for lunch and $30 to $35 for dinner.
MARCH 2010:
APRIL 2010:
Shaw Festival:
This year’s lineup starts March 1 and continues through to the end of October 2010. Check out www.shawfest.com for full details.
MAY 2010:
JUNE 2010
2010 The Shaw Garden Tour
Mark June 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on your calendar to tour unique Niagara gardens. Make it a day and add a Shaw picnic lunch. Tickets are $20. Call 1-800-511-7429 to book yours.
27th Annual Strawberry Festival:
It all happens at the St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 19, 2010.
JULY 2010
Canada Day 2010
Join in the celebrations as we commemorate this great country of ours on July 1 in Niagara-on-the-Lake and at Fort George.
Echoes of Niagara’s Past
Join in the fun at Fort George on July 17 and 18.
Niagara Music Festival
Join us for an exciting new series combining classical and the best in jazz or contemporary music. Every week from July 17 to August 14 features performers in two different genres carefully chosen to complement each other. Tickets are $30. View this year’s program at www.niagaramusicfest.com.
AUGUST 2010
SEPTEMBER 2010
Niagara Foundation House Tour 2010
This is your opportunity to tour seven of the finest heritage homes and sites in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Tours run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased online at www.niagarafoundation.com.
OCTOBER 2010
Doors Open Free of Charge:
On October 16 & 17, some of the most architecturally and historically significant sites in the region open their doors free of charge to visitors. Many of the sites in both the U.S. and Canada are registered as National Historic landmarks and others played important roles in the history of both countries. A Visitor’s Guide will be available in early October and distributed at all sites as well as tourism visitors’ centres in the Erie and Niagara Counties and Southern Ontario. Complete descriptions with maps and images will be listed at doorsopenniagara.com or call 1-888-333-1987.
NOVEMBER 2010
DECEMBER 2010
Candlelight Stroll 2010:
Take a guided stroll through the historical town, accompanied by local choirs and seasonal entertainment. It all begins at 6:30 p.m. on December 3, on Queen Street. Candles are $3 or two for $5; all proceeds from candle sales go to a local child with special needs. Please bring a non-perishable food item for Newark Neighbours.
Festival Film Series 2010/11:
Every Saturday during the months of December, January and February, enjoy a feature-length film selected from the September 2010 Film Festival lineup. Movie time is 3 p.m. at the Festival Theatre, and tickets cost $11 per person.
Rotary House Tour:
On December 3 & 4, Christmas comes to life at six professionally decorated homes. Call 905-351-3807 for details.
Santa Claus Parade:
At 11 a.m. on December 11, Santa comes to town. Join us for one of the best parades in Canada.
WINTERGLOW:
Generally felt in the vicinity of historic sites, wineries, spas, the Heritage Shopping District, fine accommodation and dining facilities, experience a feeling of wellbeing that is unique to Niagara-on-the-Lake with more than 300 fantastic events for your entertainment.
Book your seat now for the 2010 Taste of Niagara Progressive Dinner
A SPECIAL INVITATION FOR A WINTER WEEKEND GETAWAY
JANUARY 29–30; MARCH 5–6; APRIL 9–10, 2010
Here is a unique way to enjoy an Ontario winter weekend as a couple or with a group of friends. Experience a progressive dinner through five top restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Enjoy a gourmet five-course meal served in a progressive manner at five top restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake. A winery representative will be available at each venue to inform you about the wines being served with each course. At the end of the evening, you will be brought back for a get-together at the Pillar & Post.
Begin your culinary journey on Saturday night at one of the five restaurants and you will be transported by genuine London taxicabs to another restaurant for each successive course. Your ticket entitles you to a complimentary wine and cheese welcome party on the Friday night between 8 and 10 p.m., retail discounts as well as free wine tastings at participating wineries on Sunday.
The cost for this unique experience is $140 Cdn per person if paid two months prior to the event and $145 per person if paid within two months of the event. Included are:
• Welcome wine and cheese reception on Friday night;
• Five-course gourmet tasting menu on Saturday;
• Transportation between Pillar & Post and restaurants on Saturday;
• Retail discounts and free wine tastings at participating locations;
• All taxes and gratuities
The cost of accommodation is extra and a minimum two-night stay (Friday and Saturday) applies on all three weekends. To book your favourite room(s) at Globetrotters B&B/Gallery, call us direct at 1-866-835-4446.
Space is limited to 134 participants per event and event tickets must be purchased in advance (cheques are preferred).
For information or to purchase tickets, call 1-877-342-4374, visit www.atasteofniagara.ca, or email aton@cogeco.ca.
This makes a great Xmas gift idea for those who have everything.
GETTING AROUND NIAGARA
Niagara Falls & Great Gorge Discover Pass:
This is the most affordable way to experience Niagara Falls and all its major attractions. Parking in Niagara can be expensive ($20 a day). We highly recommend that you park your car at the Butterfly Conservatory where you can purchase the Niagara Falls & Great Gorge Adventure Pass for $40 per adult and $26 per child. Your parking at the Butterfly Conservatory is included. Also included in a complimentary air-conditioned shuttle service that travels between the Conservatory and Niagara Falls every 20 minutes. You can step on and step off at any of the attractions along the way and admire the sights along the way.
By Car or Taxi:
A car is highly recommended when visiting the Niagara Region. For those who prefer not to drive, there is taxi service between Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls. The cost is $26 one way. In this case, the taxi picks you up and delivers you to our door. Call 905-358-3232 to order a taxi.
Some attractions offer convenient free parking, however attractions and restaurants in and around the Falls do not. Paid parking is available at the Falls parking lot, the Greenhouse and the Rapids View parking lot. If you park at the Rapidsview Parking lot south of the Falls, you can ride the free shuttle bus (see below) from the parking lot to the Falls and back. All three lots are located just south of the Falls on the Niagara Parkway in Niagara Falls. For those who do not have a car or who prefer not to drive, there are shuttle services between Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls:
Recreational Vehicles:
During the summer only, RV parking is available at Rapids View parking lot.
Incline Railway:
The Incline Railway is a simple way for visitors from the Fallsview tourist area to descend the escarpment to the Falls. For a $2 single-trip fee, an open-air car transportsyou to the Table Rock Complex opposite the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
Parking:
• Rapids View Parking Lot People Mover
Park here and ride a FREE shuttle bus to the Falls. Once at Table Rock or prior to boarding the shuttle, you may choose two convenient options to discover our Niagara Parks:
1. Purchase a People Mover Ticket and ride all day long;
2. Purchase a Niagara Falls and Great Gorge Adventure Pass.
• Falls Parking
Park all day for one low price in the parking lot located opposite the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, just across the street from the Table Rock Complex.
• Greenhouse Parking
Located just south of the Falls by the Niagara Parks Greenhouse, this lot offers parking by the hour.
THE NIAGARA PARKS PEOPLE-MOVER SYSTEM
Travel all day for one low price. Niagara Parks’ 30-kilometre (19-mile) bus loop runs from Table Rock at Horseshoe Falls to Queenston Heights Park. Air-conditioned coaches stop approximately every 20 minutes at all Niagara Parks attractions. You may get on and off different People Mover buses as often as you like for the day for no additional fee. The Niagara Parks People-Mover System is a public “loop” transportation system that operates from April 1 until October 31. The People-Mover, in conjunction with the Falls shuttle, offer a safe, convenient and environmentally friendly transportation alternative. The one-day transportation voucher also includes all day rides on the Falls Incline Railway, a funicular that connects Table Rock Centre and the Fallsview Tourist Area. The upper terminus is near the south side of the Fallsview Casino Resort. Tickets are available at stops 1, 3, 7, 8, 18 and 20 along the route as well as at Ride Niagara. Stops 1 through 12 are northbound toward Queenston Heights Park while stops 13 through 22 are southbound toward the Falls. Onboard announcements indicate when the system closes down for the day and onboard conductors assist you with your inquiries. Pets are not permitted on People-Movers.
People-Mover Rates:
The following one-day People-Mover rates include access to the Incline Railway:
Adult: $7.50 (plus tax)
Children 6-12: $4.50 (plus tax)
Children 5 and under: Free
South Shuttle is complimentary with paid Rapidsview Parking.
For more information on hours of operation, visit www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/peoplemover.php.
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