Niagara Falls is a destination that offers a wide variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. From visiting the Niagara Scenic Trolley to the Niagara Adventure Theater, there's something for everyone to experience. The region is also known for its wine and beer culture, with over 100 wineries and 20 breweries to visit. Wine lovers can sample delicious wines and learn about the wine-making process at wineries like Chateau des Charmes, Inniskillin Wines, and Trius Winery. Beer lovers can visit breweries like the Niagara College Teaching Brewery, the Silversmith Brewing Company, and the Oast House Brewers to sample a variety of beers and learn about the brewing process.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are also 5 tours to choose from, including a wine tour with Canadian Craft Tours, a brewery tour with Canadian Craft Tours, a beer and wine tour with Canadian Craft Tours, a wine bike tour with Grape Escape tours, and a party bike tour with Pedal Pub. These tours offer a unique way to experience the Niagara region while being guided by experienced tour guides.
There are also many fun and exciting activities in the surrounding area, such as a leisurely stroll through the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, visiting the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory, taking a hike through the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, or visiting the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse. The Niagara Parks Greenhouses and the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture are also worth a visit for those interested in gardening and horticulture. All these activities are budget-friendly and you can pick and choose what you would like to do according to your budget. Niagara Falls is a destination that offers something for everyone, from romantic getaways to family vacations and adventure-filled trips. With 50 fun things to do in Niagara Falls, you're sure to find something that you'll love.
Niagara is home to some of the most beautiful wineries in Canada, and many of them are family-owned and operated. These wineries offer a unique and authentic experience, as they are deeply rooted in the local community and culture. In this blog post, we're going to take a closer look at 10 of the best family-owned wineries in Niagara.
Flat Rock Cellars - Located in the Twenty Mile Bench sub-appellation, Flat Rock Cellars is a family-owned winery that has been producing high-quality wines since 2002. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir wines.
Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery - This winery is run by the Speck family, who have been growing grapes and making wine in Niagara for over 30 years. They specialize in producing Baco Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling wines.
Château des Charmes - Founded in 1978 by Paul Bosc and his family, Château des Charmes is a family-owned winery that produces a wide variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc.
Peller Estates - Peller Estates is a family-owned winery that has been producing wines in Niagara for over 60 years. They specialize in Chardonnay, Riesling, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Tawse Winery - Tawse Winery is run by the Tawse family, who have been growing grapes and making wine in Niagara for over 10 years. They specialize in producing Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir wines.
Inniskillin - Inniskillin is a family-owned winery that has been producing wines in Niagara for over 40 years. They specialize in producing Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Stratus Vineyards - Stratus Vineyards is a family-owned winery that has been producing wines in Niagara for over 15 years. They specialize in producing Chardonnay, Riesling, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Trius Winery - Trius Winery is a family-owned winery that has been producing wines in Niagara for over 30 years. They specialize in producing Chardonnay, Riesling, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Southbrook Vineyards - Southbrook Vineyards is a family-owned winery that has been producing wines in Niagara for over 10 years. They specialize in producing Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Noir wines.
Two Sisters Vineyards - Two Sisters Vineyards is a family-owned winery that has been producing wines in Niagara for over 5 years. They specialize in producing Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Noir wines.
Honourable Mention Cave Spring Vineyards
All of these wineries offer tours and tastings, which allow visitors to learn about the winemaking process and sample a variety of wines. Many of these wineries also have beautiful grounds and offer unique experiences, such as vineyard walks, picnics, and special events.
Visiting a family-owned winery in Niagara is a great way to experience the local culture and meet the people who are passionate about making great wine. These wineries are not only producing high-quality wines, but also leaving you with a lifelong memory.
Visit Niagara Falls: One of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, Niagara Falls is a natural wonder that should not be missed. The falls are located on the Niagara River and are made up of three separate waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Visitors can take in the stunning views from various lookout points, such as the Maid of the Mist boat tour, which takes visitors right up to the base of the falls.
Take a Maid of the Mist boat tour: This iconic boat tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Niagara Falls. The tour takes visitors on a thrilling ride right up to the base of the falls, where they can feel the mist and spray from the falls. The tour also provides amazing views of the falls from the water, and is a great way to see the falls from a different perspective.
Visit the Cave of the Winds: The Cave of the Winds is a popular tourist attraction located at the base of the American Falls. Visitors can take an elevator down to the cave and walk along the wooden boardwalks to get a close-up view of the falls. The Cave of the Winds also offers the Hurricane Deck, where visitors can stand behind a wall of water and feel the full force of the falls.
Take a helicopter tour: For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour of Niagara Falls. Visitors can see the falls from a bird's eye view, and also see the Niagara River, Niagara Gorge, and other nearby attractions from the air.
Visit the Niagara Falls State Park: The Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the United States and is home to the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. The park offers a variety of activities and attractions, such as hiking trails, observation decks, and the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center. It is also a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Take a Journey Behind the Falls tour: The Journey Behind the Falls tour is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows visitors to walk behind the Horseshoe Falls. The tour includes an elevator ride down to the base of the falls, where visitors can walk along a series of tunnels and walkways to get a unique view of the falls from behind.
Visit the Niagara Falls Illumination: Each evening, the falls are lit up with a colorful display of lights. The Niagara Falls Illumination is a must-see attraction, and visitors can see the falls in a whole new light.
Visit the Niagara Falls Observation Tower: The Niagara Falls Observation Tower offers visitors a panoramic view of the falls and the surrounding area. The tower is located on the Canadian side of the falls and offers an observation deck with a glass floor, providing a unique perspective of the falls.
Visit the Niagara Falls Adventure Movie Theater: The Niagara Falls Adventure Movie Theater is a state-of-the-art theater that offers visitors a 3D and 4D experience of the falls. The theater uses special effects, such as water sprays, wind, and even smells, to create an immersive experience.
Visit the Niagara River Gorge: The Niagara River Gorge is a beautiful and natural area that offers visitors a chance to explore the Niagara River and the Niagara Gorge. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the Niagara River, hike along the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center and also check out the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve where you can see various species of birds, mammals and plants.
Niagara Falls is not just a destination for natural wonders and adventure, but also for craft beer enthusiasts. With nearly 20 breweries in the Niagara Region, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. But fear not, we've compiled a list of the top 10 breweries in the area that should not be missed.
21) Counterpart Brewing, 3659 Stanley Ave,
Niagara Falls Counterpart Brewing is the number one brewery in the Niagara Region, according to many beer enthusiasts. They opened their doors in early 2019 with a goal of building community through great craft beer and food, and they have certainly succeeded. Not only is their beer fantastic, but their food is also regularly included in "Top-10 Places To Eat In Niagara Falls" lists. They offer a selection of Sour Beers that are particularly noteworthy, but their Stouts and IPAs are what keep people coming back for more. Must-try beers include Sound of Silence Imperial Stout with maple and cocoa, any of their Roller Oatmeal Stout line, and Dreamland Double IPA.
22) Brimstone Brewing Company, 209 Ridge Rd N,
Ridgeway (Fort Erie) Built in an old church and sharing that building with The Sanctuary Centre For The Arts, Brimstone Brewing is a must-visit destination. They offer a huge selection of 12 different beers on the menu, so there's something to please everyone's taste. They also have a reputation for their food menu, which is highly praised by customers on social media. Must-try beers include Bad Habits Oat Pale Ale with Coffee, Heavenweiss Wheat Ale with Grapefruit and Cara Cara Orange, and Midnight Mass Chicory Oatmeal Stout.
23) Bench Brewing Company, 3991 King St, Beamsville (Lincoln)
Bench Brewing Company opened four years ago and quickly made a name for itself. Located in the stunning Twenty Valley wine country, the Belgian-inspired farmhouse brewery embraces old world brewing techniques such as open air foeders and produces top-notch barrel-aged, sour and mixed fermentation beer. Their specialty bottled beers are simply phenomenal. Despite the countless Hamilton breweries, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats football team chose Bench’s Lincoln Lager to be relabeled with their logo for a limited edition. Must-try beers include Lincoln Helles Lager, Flanders Red Barrel-Aged Sour, and the Apricot Wildwood Golden Sour.
24) Niagara Oast House Brewers, 2017 Niagara Stone Rd,
Niagara-on-the-Lake Oast House, as it's more commonly called, could have easily been higher on this list but with breweries of this caliber, it's hard to choose an order. Built using an old 1800s barn, Oast has a fantastic patio upper party deck and inside events space, a.k.a. The Hayloft. They offer the largest and most varied selection of beers in the Niagara Region, including their Offshoot series, specialty bottled farmhouse ales and Rural Route series. Must-try beers include the seasonal Strawberry Rhubarb Ale, Crop Duster Belgian IPA (offshoot), Pitchfork Porter and Saison (farmhouse).
25) Niagara College Teaching Brewery, 135 Taylor Rd,
Niagara-on-the-Lake Niagara College Teaching Brewery is where future brewers first begin, so some may question its inclusion on this list. However, their styles are basic and there are no bells-and-whistle beers being produced. That's precisely what makes it special. They make a straight-up Porter in the traditional British style, a regular Pilsner in the traditional Czech style and so on.
26) Silversmith Brewing Company, 177 South Service Road, St. Catharines
Silversmith Brewing Company is a family-owned and operated brewery located in the heart of St. Catharines. They specialize in small batch beers, which allows them to experiment with different styles and flavors. They also have a rotating selection of seasonal beers. They are known for their flagship beer, Black Lager, which has won multiple awards. The brewery has a cozy and welcoming taproom, with a small outdoor seating area. It's a perfect place to enjoy a pint with friends and family. MUST TRY: Black Lager, Belgian Wit, and any of their seasonal beers.
27) Exchange Brewery, 7 Queen Street,
Niagara-on-the-Lake Exchange Brewery is a small craft brewery located in the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. They are committed to creating high-quality beers using only the finest ingredients. They have a wide range of beers on tap, from light and refreshing to dark and complex. They also offer a limited selection of bottles and cans to take home. The brewery has a modern and industrial taproom, with a small outdoor seating area. They also have a food truck on site, offering delicious bites to pair with your beer. MUST TRY: Belgian Dubbel, Imperial Stout, and any of their seasonal beers.
28) Niagara Brewing Company, 4460 Ontario Street,
Niagara Falls Niagara Brewing Company is a local craft brewery located in Niagara Falls. They pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients and traditional brewing techniques. They have a diverse selection of beers, from classic styles to experimental brews. They also offer a limited selection of bottles and cans to take home. The brewery has a spacious and comfortable taproom, with a small outdoor seating area. They also have a food truck on site, offering delicious bites to pair with your beer. MUST TRY: Niagara Lager, Hops of Fury IPA, and any of their seasonal beers.
29) Lock Street Brewing Company, 80 Lock Street, St. Catharines
Lock Street Brewing Company is a local craft brewery located in the heart of St. Catharines. They specialize in creating high-quality beers using only the finest ingredients. They have a diverse selection of beers on tap, from light and refreshing to dark and complex. They also offer a limited selection of bottles and cans to take home. The brewery has a cozy and welcoming taproom, with a small outdoor seating area. They also have a food truck on site, offering delicious bites to pair with your beer. MUST TRY: Lock Street Lager, Hops of Fury IPA, and any of their seasonal beers.
30) Niagara College Teaching Winery, 135 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara College Teaching Winery is the perfect place to discover the art of winemaking. The winery is run by the students of Niagara College's Wine Technology Program and produces a variety of wines, including VQA wines. The winery offers tastings and tours, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and sample the wines. They also offer a small selection of bottles and cans to take home. The winery has a modern and welcoming tasting room, with a small outdoor seating area. They also have a food truck on site, offering delicious bites to pair with your wine. MUST TRY: Niagara College Teaching Winery's VQA wines, such as their Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
Niagara Falls is not just about the falls themselves, but also the many other natural and educational activities that the area has to offer. From the Niagara Scenic Trolley to the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture, there are plenty of options for visitors looking for something different and fun. These ten activities offer a unique way to explore the beauty of Niagara Falls and learn about the area's history, culture and nature. Whether you're interested in taking a scenic ride, watching a 3D film presentation, visiting an aquarium, conservatory or nature reserve, or exploring botanical gardens and greenhouses, there's something for everyone. These activities are not alcohol related and perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for an alternative and educational experience.
Take a ride on the Niagara Scenic Trolley - This is a great way to see the Niagara Parks while learning about the history and culture of the area. The trolley takes you on a leisurely ride through the parks, passing by famous landmarks and providing commentary on the sights you see. It's a fun and relaxing way to take in the beauty of the area and learn more about its history.
Visit the Niagara Adventure Theater - The Niagara Adventure Theater is a state-of-the-art 3D film presentation that takes you on a journey through the power and beauty of Niagara Falls. This immersive experience is great for all ages and gives you a new perspective on the falls. It's a fun and exciting way to learn more about the falls and experience the thrill of being right in the middle of the action.
Visit the Niagara Aquarium - The Niagara Aquarium is a great place to explore the underwater world of the Niagara River. It's home to a wide variety of fish and aquatic life from the river, as well as other bodies of water around the world. The aquarium also includes interactive exhibits and educational programs that make it a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Visit the Niagara Butterfly Conservatory - This tropical paradise is home to thousands of beautiful butterflies from around the world. It's a great place to learn about different species of butterflies and their habitats, as well as take in the beauty of the colorful fluttering butterflies. It's a great place to take a peaceful stroll, and a perfect family-friendly activity.
Visit the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve - This natural area is located in the Niagara River Gorge and offers great hiking opportunities to see the falls from a different perspective. It's a great place to learn about the geology and natural history of the area and enjoy the beautiful scenery. A visit to the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area and get some exercise.
Visit the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens - These gardens showcase a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees from around the world in a beautiful garden setting. It's a great place to learn about different plant species and their habitats, as well as take in the beauty of the gardens. It's a perfect place for a peaceful stroll, and a great family-friendly activity.
Visit the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory - This conservatory is home to hundreds of butterflies from around the world. It's a great place to learn about different species of butterflies and their habitats, as well as take in the beauty of the colorful fluttering butterflies. It's a great place to take a peaceful stroll, and a perfect family-friendly activity.
Visit the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse - This showhouse features a wide variety of plants and flowers from around the world in a beautiful greenhouse setting. It's a great place to learn about different plant species and their habitats, as well as take in the beauty of the gardens. It's a perfect place for a peaceful stroll, and a great family-friendly activity.
Visit the Niagara Parks Greenhouses - These greenhouses showcase a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees from around the world in a beautiful greenhouse setting. It's a great place to learn about different plant species and their habitats, as well as take in the beauty of the gardens. It's a perfect place for a peaceful stroll, and a great family-friendly activity.
Visit the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture - This school offers educational programs and tours that teach visitors about the history, science, and art of horticulture. It's a great place to learn about different plant species, gardening techniques,
Niagara Falls Marriott on the Falls - This hotel offers stunning views of the falls from many of its rooms and is just a short walk from the Niagara Parks. It also features a fitness center, indoor pool, and several on-site dining options.
Sheraton on the Falls Hotel - This hotel offers breathtaking views of the falls and is located just steps away from the Niagara Parks. It also features an indoor pool, fitness center, and several on-site dining options.
The Tower Hotel at Niagara Falls - This hotel offers panoramic views of the falls and is located in the heart of the Niagara Parks. It also features an indoor pool, fitness center, and several on-site dining options.
The Falls Hotel & Inn at Clifton Hill - This hotel is located in the heart of the Niagara Falls tourist district, close to many attractions and dining options. It features an indoor pool, fitness center, and several on-site dining options.
Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel & Suites - This hotel offers great views of the falls and is located just steps away from the Niagara Parks. It also features an indoor pool, fitness center, and several on-site dining options.
A wine tour is the best way to visit the wineries in the Niagara region because everything is pre-booked and organized for you, allowing you to fully enjoy your experience without the stress of planning or worry about drinking and driving. The tour company will handle all the transportation, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside to the wineries. You'll also be able to sample a variety of wines at several wineries without worrying about the legal limit of driving, which means you can fully enjoy your wine-tasting experience. The tour guide will also provide information about the wineries and the wines, which means you'll have a more educational and enjoyable experience. Furthermore, you will be able to taste different wines, paired with different foods, which will be a great experience. All in all, a wine tour is a great way to explore the Niagara region's wine country while avoiding the hassle of driving and planning, and ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Niagara Wine Tour with Canadian Craft Tours - This tour takes visitors on a journey through the Niagara region's wine country, visiting some of the area's most renowned wineries. Guests will have the opportunity to taste a variety of wines, learn about the wine-making process and the history of the region's wineries. The tour includes transportation, tastings at several wineries, and a knowledgeable guide who will provide information and answer any questions you may have. This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, couples, or anyone looking for a relaxed and educational experience.
Niagara Brewery Tour with Canadian Craft Tours - This tour takes visitors on a journey through the Niagara region's brewery scene, visiting some of the area's most popular breweries. Guests will have the opportunity to taste a variety of beers, learn about the brewing process and the history of the region's breweries. The tour includes transportation, tastings at several breweries, and a knowledgeable guide who will provide information and answer any questions you may have. This tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a fun and educational experience.
Niagara Beer and Wine Tour with Canadian Craft Tours - This tour combines the best of both worlds, offering visitors a chance to taste the region's wines and beers. The tour includes transportation, tastings at several wineries and breweries, and a knowledgeable guide who will provide information and answer any questions you may have. This tour is perfect for those who want to sample a variety of drinks and explore the region's wine and beer scene.
Niagara Wine Bike Tour with Grape Escape Tours - This tour offers visitors a unique and active way to explore the region's wine country. Guests will cycle through the picturesque Niagara countryside, visiting several wineries and tasting a variety of wines. The tour includes transportation, bike rental, tastings at several wineries, and a knowledgeable guide who will provide information and answer any questions you may have. This tour is perfect for active individuals, families, or anyone looking for a different and fun way to explore the region's wine scene.
Niagara Party Bike Tour with Pedal Pub - This tour offers visitors a fun and unique way to explore the Niagara region. Guests will pedal through the streets on a large bike while enjoying drinks, music, and the company of friends. The tour includes transportation, bike rental, and a knowledgeable guide who will provide information and answer any questions you may have. This tour is perfect for groups of friends, bachelorette parties, or anyone looking for a fun and social way to explore the region.
Brandon Moscrip
Author
If you can not get a hold of Brandon he is either Snowboarding, diving, in a hammock or on the hunt for his favourite new Craft Beverage somewhere globally. If you are looking for Brandon, you'll have a better chance finding Waldo.