Niagara Canada Travel Magazine 2014 by Visit Niagara Canada

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canada

niagara TRAVEL

Journey Behind the Falls

Niagara Parks is...

The Ultimate Falls Experience. Experience the incredible power and beauty of Niagara Falls at Ontarioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Niagara Parks. Get as close as you can to the thundering water at Journey Behind the Falls and White Water Walk, then dine with a panoramic view at Elements on the Falls. Explore the Butterfly Conservatory and the Botanical Gardens or play Whirlpool Golf course in the fabulous setting beside the Niagara Glen. History, nature, gardens and so much more at Niagara Parks.

ready, set, go Experience Niagara Falls like never before

WHERE'S THE PARTY? 4 seasons of Niagara fun

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ON 4 TOP ATTRACTIONS

NEW FOR 2014 - Includes Hornblower Niagara Cruises

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Cobi Ladner discovers a whole new Niagara

visitniagaracanada.com

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

I love when out-of-town guests come to visit.

It’s the perfect opportunity to share the incredible sense of pride I feel for this beautiful region that I get to call home and also show off all my favourite Niagara spaces, places, meals and deals. Last summer, we hosted family from England for two jam-packed weeks of Niagara fun. We rode the WEGO to Niagara Falls attractions and experienced the Falls by boat and helicopter. We took in festivals, stepped back in time at Niagara's historic forts, watched ships float their way down the Welland Canal, hit an indoor waterpark on a rainy afternoon, sampled VQA wines (and sparkling grape juice for the kids) at wineries, hiked through the Niagara Glen and even managed to fit in some time for a little shopping. Our guests were impressed at just how much Niagara has to offer. That’s a trend you’ll notice in this issue of Niagara Canada Travel as well. Whether they were shopping the region’s unique boutiques, exploring the Bruce Trail, cruising in a convertible alongside the Welland Canal, or sipping and savouring at our wineries, our writers were universally wowed by Niagara and the diversity of experiences here. Now it’s your turn. We hope this issue inspires you to plan your very own escape. Use the great travel tools available at www.visitniagaracanada.com to create your custom-fit getaway and be sure to try something new while you’re here. We can’t wait to see you in Niagara!

Tina Truszyk Marketing Director The Tourism Partnership of Niagara

P. S.

Be sure to share your latest Niagara adventures with us! visitniagara

FORT GEORGE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

@visit_niagara

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51 60 36

44 14 4

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

inside 16

features

departments

Away WEGO

Notable Niagara

Lose your car keys and discover a great new way to explore Niagara Falls. By Liz Fleming

Fresh Finds

Fantastic Four

Join Cobi Ladner for some Niagara retail therapy. Taste your way through some of the best things happening in Ontario wine.

Great Drives Convertible Country Grab your sunglasses and hit the road for some of the country’s best top-down cruising.

Five-Minute Niagara Guide

Where’s the Party?

Great Trails Walk This Way Take a hike on The Bruce Trail, Canada’s longest and oldest footpath.

Must See & Do

Get Hooked

A Whole New View

Choose Your Own Adventure

History and Heritage Homes With History Step back in time at some of Niagara’s most storied addresses.

Arts and Culture STRUTT Your Stuff Canada’s largest wearable art show is a surreal spectacle you won’t want to miss.

niagara

canada

TRAVEL

You’re invited! Join in on the fun at Niagara’s hottest events.

By Micah Toub

Explore a new-to-you corner of Niagara on your next visit.

Niagara Agenda

By Garry Sowerby and Lisa Calvi

Find out what all the buzz is about.

By John Szabo

niagara discoveries

New & Noticed in Niagara

Can’t-miss stops for your next Niagara visit. Get caught up in some fabulous fishing on your next visit to Niagara.

Experience Niagara Falls like never before. Take our quiz and create a custom-fit Niagara escape.

In Every Issue

Niagara 365

Niagara Places

Winter, spring, summer and fall, there’s always something happening here. Find your way to our local tourism organizations.

On the cover Ready, Set, Go Away WEGO................................16 A Whole New View.................14 Where's the Party?............22 Shop 'til you drop Fresh Finds..................................51

ready, set, go Experience Niagara Falls like never before

WHERE'S THE PARTY? 4 seasons of Niagara fun

PLUS shop 'til you drop

Cobi Ladner discovers a whole new Niagara

com

visitniagaracanada.

visitniagaracanada.com

FINALLY. SOUVENIRS FOR THE FASHIONABLY INCLINED. Bring home a fashionable souvenir. Head to Outlet Collection at Niagara to find over 100 irresistible brands including Tommy Hilfiger, J. Crew Factory, Nike Factory Store, Coach Outlet, Pandora, White House Black Market, Fossil, Bench, Lacoste, North Face and Marshalls — all at outlet prices.

OUTLETCOLLECTIONATNIAGARA.COM — OFF THE QEW AT 300 TAYLOR RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, ONTARIO (QEW & GLENDALE AVE.) niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

canada

niagara TRAVE L

Publication Director & Marketing Director Tina Truszyk Circulation: 900,000 Published by The Tourism Partnership of Niagara 5881 Dunn Street Niagara Falls, ON Canada L2G 2N9 Design & Production Loud+Clear Copywriting and Editing Virginia Lewis For general information and advertising sales contact: 289-477-5344 info@niagarasrto.com

contributors Liz Fleming Liz Fleming is a travel writer whose articles appear in newspapers and magazines across Canada. Though she’s covered the globe – from Botswana to Bora Bora – she’s never found a place she loves more than Niagara. From the breathtaking landscape, to the incomparable local cuisine and the welcoming people, Liz loves nothing better than writing about Niagara and encouraging others to come and share what she’s sure is the most beautiful place in the world.

Cobi Ladner

Cobi Ladner, past editor of Canadian House & Home magazine, is one of the country’s leading design and decorating authorities. A frequent guest of national radio and television programs and on the pages of newspapers, magazines and a number of design books, Cobi has a special connection with homeowners across Canada and into the United States. After an enormously successful tenure at House & Home, Cobi has now developed her own lifestyle brand, Cobistyle.

Printed in Canada Niagara Canada Travel © 2014. Niagara Canada Travel is published once a year by The Tourism Partnership of Niagara with funding provided by the Government of Ontario. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permissions is prohibited. All information is current at press time. At the time of publishing, we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible, but details may change. The publisher cannot and does not guarantee the accuracy of all information and will not be responsible for errors, changes or omissions. We ask that you refer to visitniagaracanada.com for the most up-to-date information. Special thanks to Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership (OTMPC) and Niagara tourism partners for allowing us to use their photos throughout this publication.

John Szabo Master sommelier John Szabo is a partner and principal critic for WineAlign.com, and his bi-monthly reports are published on nationalpost.ca. John is wine editor of Toronto’s CityBites Magazine, author of Pairing Food and Wine For Dummies, and has freelanced for Wine & Spirits, Nation’s Restaurant News, En Route, The Globe and Mail, and Vines, Wine Access, and Grapevine magazines, among others. He also owns a small vineyard in Hungary. As a holder of a 3rd degree black belt in Goju-Karate-do, his grapes are well protected, too.

Garry Sowerby and Lisa Calvi

a place of wonders...big and small.

www.visitniagaracanada.com Follow us online for Niagara travel info 'on the go.' @visit_niagara visitniagara

VisitNiagaraCanada

The Tourism Partnership of Niagara (TPN) was established in 2010 as one of Ontario’s 13 Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs). Representing all of the municipalities within the Regional Municipality of Niagara, the TPN is an independent, industry-led, not-for-profit organization responsible for working with tourism partners to enhance and grow Niagara’s tourism products and marketing activities. For more information on TPN go to www.niagarasrto.com Images courtesy of Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership (OTMPC), Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) and Niagara Tourism Partners including, City of St. Catharines Tourism, The Good Earth Food and Wine Co., Illuminaqua, Niagara Parks Commission, Twenty Valley Tourism, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Photographer Dwayne Coon, Brian Youngblut, Hornblower Niagara Cruises, Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Winter Festival of Lights.

Four-time, world long-distance, automotive record breaker, Garry Sowerby and his wife, Lisa Calvi are consumed by all things automotive. The talented pair’s recent motoring adventures include driving across the country to set a new Canadian fuel consumption record (just 250.9 litres of diesel). When not writing about their incredible journeys, Garry and Lisa assist automotive companies in creating unforgettable routes to assist automotive writers in reviewing new vehicles.

Micah Toub

Micah Toub is the author of a memoir, Growing Up Jung: Coming of Age as the Son of Two Shrinks. A National Magazine Award-winning journalist, he is The Grid's spirituality columnist and his work has appeared in The Walrus, Canadian Family, Psychology Today and The Globe and Mail. He lives with his wife, Bryony, in Toronto.

Andreas Trauttmansdorff Andreas Trauttmansdorff’s photography has garnered numerous National Magazine, Advertising and Design Club, Magnum Opus and Pearl awards in both Canada and the United States. While it’s been a number of years since he has called Niagara home, Andreas still loves to return here to capture the region’s beauty on film.

visitniagaracanada.com

UNLIMITED FUN AND ADVENTURE AWAIT YOU ON FALLS AVENUE RESORT The 20 acre Falls Avenue Resort is Canada’s largest one-stop entertainment destination! Featuring indoor connections to first rate hotels, restaurants and attractions. You‘ll love the bumper cars, mini putt and arcade games at Adventure City, enjoy dining options that include Hard Rock Cafe, Rainforest Cafe and Planet Hollywood and satisfy a sweet tooth with decadent treats from Hershey’s Chocolate World Niagara Falls. The whole family will love the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark – a 3 acre aqua extravaganza. Voted #1 Amusement Park and Waterpark in Canada on TripAdvisor, the Waterpark features sixteen thrilling waterslides, a massive indoor wave pool, a year round outdoor sundeck and activity pool, the Beach House Aqua Play area and is a perfect 84 degrees year-round.

Hotel Rooms from $79 Hotel Waterpark Packages from $179

NIAGARA FALLS

FALLSVIEW niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

FallsAvenueResort.com y 1.866.939.5241

New & Noticed in Niagara

NOTABLE NIAGARA

Back on track

▲

Fans of live thoroughbred racing are celebrating the announcement that there will be a 2014 racing season at Fort Erie Race Track. Widely regarded as one of North America’s most picturesque tracks, Fort Erie Race Track has a proud history dating back to 1897 that includes the maiden victory of King of Canadian horse racing, Northern Dancer. Visit www.forterieracing.com for race dates and details.* *Race dates were still being finalized at the time of printing.

▲

Enthralled by the Falls

Tourists have spoken and they’ve chosen Niagara Falls as one of Canada’s top three travel destinations in the TripAdvisor 2013 Travellers' Choice Awards. The Travellers' Choice Destinations Awards honor the world’s top travel spots based on millions of valuable reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor travellers.

▲

New boats on the block

Hornblower Niagara Cruises’ brand new state-of-the-art catamarans, Niagara Wonder and Niagara Thunder, have sailed into town and are raising the bar on the Niagara Falls cruising experience to a completely new level. The decked out new boats offer guests a range of tour options including evening Sunset, Fireworks and Illumination Cruises. Read all about these exciting new experiences on page 15.

Wheel appeal Thanks to its abundance of safe cycling choices, Pelham is the first Canadian town of its size to receive the coveted “Bicycle Friendly Community” designation from the Share the Road Cycling Coalition. Over 60 per cent of Pelham’s total road network is considered highly suitable for road bikes, offering cyclists 150 km of smooth lanes, hilly streets, winding roads, and challenging short hills. www.pelham.ca/lifestyle/cycling

▲

Leave it to beaver (tails)

Pony up

▲

Time to refuel after a busy day of sightseeing? Head to Beavertails’ new Clifton Hill location in Niagara Falls for a taste of this beloved Canadian pastry treat. www.beavertailsinc.com

The sport of polo returns to Niagara-on-the-Lake on September 6th when The Friends of Fort George will present two polo matches, half-time entertainment, music, a parade and, of course, the traditional divot stomp. www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca

visitniagaracanada.com

NIAGARA AGENDA

Must see & DO

▲

You'll be amazed by just how much there is to experience in Niagara. Here are a few suggestions for your next getaway. Reel-y big news for film lovers

NIFF, the Niagara Integrated Film Festival, will hit Niagara for four fabulous days of film, food and festivities from June 19-22 with Niagara’s stunning wineries, restaurants and extraordinary locales providing the backdrop. The festival, which is being brought to Niagara by TIFF co-founder Bill Marshall, will deliver more than 100 screenings of major international independent feature films, with Q & A sessions where guests can connect with the stars, producers and directors. Can’t-miss events include Filmalicious, a “dinner and a movie” spectacular that will be hosted at some of Niagara’s most fabulous vineyards and The World’s Smallest Film Festival, a short film competition for pieces shot entirely on hand-held devices. www.niff.co PELLER ESTATES WINERY, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

Designer deals for all

▲

Body language

The new Bodies Revealed exhibit at the Four Points by Sheraton Niagara Falls, which opens on May 25th, provides an amazing glimpse deep inside the human body. Over 200 actual human bodies and specimens have been meticulously dissected and respectfully displayed, allowing visitors to discover the systems of the body like never before. www.bodiesniagara.com

The wait is over. Niagara’s newest shopping destination, The Outlet Collection at Niagara, an outlet shopping centre in Niagara-on-the-Lake is opening May 2014. This new shopping experience is home to almost 100 marquee outlets including Banana Republic, Bench, Brooks Brothers, Calvin Klein, Forever 21, Gap, Izod, Michael Kors, Naturalizer, Osh Kosh, Tommy Hilfiger and Van Heusen. www.outletcollectionatniagara.com

▲

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

Stroll and sniff

▲

Twenty varieties of fragrant lavender are the stars of the show at Terra Lavanda in Vineland. In addition to walking through the lavender fields and enjoying spectacular views, visitors can witness lavender steam distillation and shop for lavender products in the on-site boutique. Guests are also invited to stop by for the annual lavender harvest event on July 5th. www.terralavanda.com On July 12th and 13th, lavender lovers won't want to miss the annual Lavender Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake hosted by Niagara Essential Oils and Blends. You'll find a lavender market area, demonstrations, tastings, pickyour-own lavender and more. www.niagaralavenderfestival.com

War of 1812 – 1814

Celebrations wrap up with a BANG! This summer Niagara is hosting a number of exciting events to help commemorate the historic events that occurred in this region that shaped our country 200 years ago. Battle of Chippawa Re-enactment Saturday and Sunday, July 5 & 6 The Battle of Chippawa will be re-enacted on the pristine Chippawa Battlefield for the very first time to commemorate the 200th anniversary of this important event. Battle of Lundy’s Lane Commemoration Friday, July 25 The 200th anniversary of the Battle of Lundy’s Lane will be commemorated with a nighttime participatory event that will recreate the British and American march to the Lundy’s Lane battlefield. The Siege of Fort Erie Saturday and Sunday, August 9 & 10 The 28th annual Siege of Fort Erie re-enactment is the largest 1812 re-enactment in North America. This 200th anniversary features a Saturday night battle with pyrotechnics. The Battle of Cook’s Mills Saturday, October 18 The 200th anniversary of the Battle of Cook’s Mills will include a re-enactment of the battle along with a ceremony to the fallen soldiers. Visit www.discover1812.com for more details on War of 1812-1814 celebrations.

▲ THE SANDS OF TIME Looking for another great way to learn about the War of 1812? Consider a trip to the International Sand Sculptures Exhibition in Niagara Falls, where 17 of the world's best sand sculptors have used about 3 million kilograms of sand to create an astonishing exposition of sculptures to depict the personalities of the War of 1812 – 1814. www.v2niagara.com

Go to visitniagaracanada.com for more must-do events.

visitniagaracanada.com

ga Experience Nia

St. Catharines - Twenty Valley

Wine We ekend

Your wine destination in any season!

from

2014 2015

Get Fresh in the Valley

April 5&6, 12&13, 26&27

Niagara New Vintage Festival

June 14 to 22

Niagara Wine Festival

September 13 to 28

Wrapped Up in the Valley

November 8 to 23

Niagara Icewine Festival

January 9 to 25

Twenty Valley Winter WineFest

January 10 &11

Getaways

$89 .99

Based on double occupancy, plus all applicable taxes and service fees. Subject to availability, at participating hotels. Based on standard room.

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

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NOTABLE NIAGARA

FIVE-MINUTE NIAGARA GUIDe

Want in on one of Niagara’s best-kept secrets? There’s a whole collection of "off-the-radar” gems that must be seen to be believed. Add an extra day to your next getaway and spend some time exploring a “new-to-you” corner of Niagara while you’re here.

GRIMSBY ww.town.grimsby.on.ca w

SOUTHCOAST

WHY you’ll love it

PORT DALHOUSIE, ST. CaTHARINES

Nestled between Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment, Grimsby is the gateway to Niagara, offering visitors a destination that is rich in history and small town charm.

Scenic Lake Erie shorelines, a proud marine history and fun festivals make Niagara’s South Coast a great destination for visitors looking to relax and experience a laidback, lakeside Niagara vibe.

Home to over 1,000 acres of parks and trails, a world-famous rowing course and a vibrant arts scene, the Garden City is growing and is a great place to stop and smell the roses.

DON'T MISS

CANAL DAYS, PORT COLBORNE

Beamer Memorial Conservation Area is renowned as Ontario’s best perch for observing the annual spring hawk migration, and also offers stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario.

Lake Erie’s Crystal Beach has been attracting dedicated sun worshippers and water babies for generations. When it’s time to shake the sand out from between your toes, the unique shops of Port Colborne are sure to delight.

Enjoy an ice cream cone as you walk along Port Dalhousie’s pier and then take a few turns on the beloved antique carousel. Rides are still just a nickel!

STOP FOR A BITE

PENINSULA RIDGE ESTATE WInery, GRIMSBY

Enjoy fresh local fare with perfectly paired wines at The Restaurant at Peninsula Ridge. www.peninsularidge.com

Take a time out for delicious tapas at Port Colborne’s Twisted Small Plates Bistro. www.twistedbistro.com

Wellington Court has been wowing diners for 25 years with creative world-class cuisine inspired by Niagara’s bounty. www.wellington-court.com

www.southcoasttourism.com

ST. CATHARINES www.tourismstcatharines.ca

visitniagaracanada.com

YOGA AT SOUTHBROOK VINEYARDS

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

NIAGARA AGENDA

over

behind

Experience Niagara Falls like never before u n d er

All aboard Niagara Wonder & Niagara Thunder The launch of Hornblower Niagara Cruises’ state-of-the-art catamaran Voyage To The Falls tours of Niagara Falls marks the beginning of an exciting new era for one of the world’s most popular visitor experiences. Guests aboard the new Niagara Wonder and Niagara Thunder 700-passenger boats will experience the unforgettable thrill of a lifetime on a journey past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and into the very heart of the mighty Horseshoe Falls for an up-close and personal connection with the thundering water, awesome power and amazing mist of Niagara Falls. Tiered decks on the boats will ensure an unobstructed viewing experience for all with on-board comforts that include retractable glass walls for dry viewing areas, on-board concessions and passenger washrooms. Exciting new tour options include Early Morning Sunrise Tours and extraordinary new evening and nighttime cruises. These extended

The backstage pass Journey Behind the Falls takes visitors on a journey deep below and behind the Horseshoe Falls. After taking an elevator ride 45 metres (150 feet) down, you’ll follow bedrock tunnels to viewing portals and observation decks that provide a whole new perspective on the 2,800 cubic metres of water thundering over the brink every second! www.niagaraparks.com

Niagara Helicopters

Hornblower Niagara Cruises

one-hour experiences include Sunset Cocktail Cruises, Falls Illumination Cruises and Falls Fireworks Cruises. Set against the backdrop of stunning sunsets, a dazzling city skyline and the beautiful colours of Falls illumination and fireworks, these cruise experiences also feature on-board music, a licensed bar and snacks. Hornblower Niagara Cruises offers customers the opportunity to purchase tickets at home and print them in advance for their preferred cruise tour, date and time, alleviating the long waits visitors may have experienced in days gone by. Customized private charter tours are also available for special events and weddings. What a way to say, “I do!” www.niagaracruises.com

Journey Behind the Falls

The downstream delight The White Water Walk will take you for an unforgettable walk on the wild side along one of the world’s most extreme stretches of whitewater. After riding 70 metres (230 feet) down in an elevator, a boardwalk with observation areas provides a perfect perch to take in the Class 6 Whirlpool Rapids, the largest series of standing waves in North America. www.niagaraparks.com

The view from on high Helicopter tours offer visitors the ultimate high when it comes to seeing the Falls. Don’t forget your camera! The helicopter’s large windows will ensure you capture the perfect shot to remember the ride of a lifetime. www.niagarahelicopters.com, www.nationalhelicopters.com/niagara

The White Water Walk

OPPOSITE PAGE: HELICOPTER TOUR OVER NIAGARA FALLS

visitniagaracanada.com

CLIFTON HILL, NIAGARA FALLS

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

WEGO Shift gears and discover a whole new way to get around Niagara Falls By Liz Fleming There’s nothing that kills fun faster than searching for a parking spot. Luckily, visitors to Niagara Falls can now forget parking hassles entirely. WEGO has you covered. The best of all possible transportation options, WEGO is a hop-on/hop-off, fully accessible system that starts at 9 a.m., as the Niagara Falls attractions open and finishes as late as 1 a.m. during the busy tourist season. For one fee, you can ride WEGO all day long from destination to destination on the well planned, interlinking routes. Designed to make exploring Niagara Falls’ many attractions as convenient as possible, WEGO’s state-of-the-art buses are divided into colour-coded routes that cover all the areas a tourist might want to explore. Your pass gives you access to all the routes, some of which cruise the major hotel strips, so you can kiss your car keys goodbye at the beginning of your holiday and not think about them again until it’s time to go home. Each WEGO bus makes stops every 20-30 minutes at the designated spots on its route. To help visitors maximize their fun and minimize the time they spend waiting, riders can use smartphones to access WEGO’s BusTime Tools for up-to-the-minute location and arrival times for the various stops at www.wegoniagarafalls.com. The online listing makes it easy to plan your travels. The Falls and the Table Rock Welcome Centre are both located at the main transfer point for all of the routes, so no matter which bus you hop on to, you can rest assured you won’t miss the spectacle of more than 168,000 cubic metres (6 million cubic ft.) of water flowing over the crest line of the Falls every minute! Table Rock Welcome Centre's prime location in Niagara Falls is the only spot from which you can gaze directly over the Falls as you enjoy a meal at Elements on the Falls Restaurant. The complex also houses a shopping area, the Journey Behind the Falls and Niagara’s Fury, a 4D ‘immersive’ film experience that will explain the birth of Niagara Falls in a way you’ll never forget! www.niagaraparks.com Just where else can you go? A quick look at the WEGO route map tells you – everywhere! We’ve highlighted a few of the most exciting stops on the following pages.

WEGOs' bus routes cover all the areas you'l l want to see.Pick a colour and start exploring.

IMAX® IMAX Corporation

< The Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort Try your luck at the tables, play the slots, check out the world-famous performers appearing in the Avalon Theatre, shop at unique boutiques or dine at one of the 18 delicious dining options in this stunning complex. www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com

< Imax Theatre

Oh Canada Eh?! Dinner Theatre

Discover the human history of Niagara Falls through the magic of a 60-foot IMAX screen. Niagara: Miracles, Myths and Magic, will introduce you to stories of brave warriors, adventurous explorers and death-defying daredevils that will make you look at the Falls in a whole new way. www.imaxniagara.com

Looking for a quintessentially Canadian good time? This is the place! A cast of hilarious characters will sing, dance and fill you full of classic Canadian comfort food. The two-hour show will entertain the whole family and children 12 years and under are free when you purchase a full-price adult ticket in the Maple seating section. www.ohcanadaeh.com

Marineland >

you can't beat

Featuring the world’s largest collection of beluga whales, as well as killer whales, bison, elk and friendly deer, Marineland offers daily dolphin and sea lion shows, an amusement park and more. www.marinelandcanada.com

The Blue LinE < The Skylon Tower Take in the awe-inspiring views of the Falls while riding up the 158-metre Skylon Tower, but don’t blink, the Yellow Bug elevators will whisk you to the top in under a minute! Don’t worry, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the view from the indoor and outdoor observation decks. www.skylon.com

< Bus and Train Terminals If you’d like to make your holiday in Niagara Falls completely car-free and carefree, you’ll find both the bus and train terminals located on the Purple Line, so you can simply hop on and ride to the hotel of your choice! www.gotransit.com

French Twist > While you’re on the Purple Line, make a stop at Paris Crepes Café for delicious sweet and savoury crepes and French Bistro cuisine. www.pariscrepescafe.com

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

NOTABLE NIAGARA

Waves Indoor Waterpark at Americana Resort > Whether you’re staying at the resort, or just diving in for a few hours of splashing with a day pass, Waves Indoor Waterpark offers 25,000 square feet of fun. The space is flooded in natural light, making you feel like you’ve escaped to the beach during cold winter months. In the summer, the sun shines in thanks to a retractable roof. www.americananiagara.com

rock it on

the red line

< Canada One Factory Outlets You’ll find a collection of name brand outlet stores such as Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, lululemon, Nike and more at this conveniently located mall. www.canadaoneoutlets.com

Clifton Hill >

Casino Niagara

Called the ‘Street of Fun by the Falls,’ Clifton Hill offers a wealth of wax museums, restaurants and hotels, a dinosaur-themed mini putt course and the 300 interactive games at Canada’s largest entertainment complex. There's also the 53-metre Niagara SkyWheel, a four-season ride that takes you high above the Falls in an enclosed gondola. www.cliftonhill.com

In addition to all the fun of the gaming tables and slot machines, Casino Niagara is also home to Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club and offers full sports wagering. www.casinoniagara.com

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark >

Greg Frewin Theatre >

You’ll find three acres of sensational splashing just a two-minute walk from the Falls at Fallsview Indoor Waterpark. Thrill seekers will love the 16 waterslides and those who prefer a more relaxed vibe will enjoy a long soak in the hot springs or stretching out on the sunny pool patio during the summer months. www.fallsviewwaterpark.com

Greg Frewin earned the title of The International Grand Champion of Magic after winning first place in all of the world's top magic competitions. Catch one of his amazing shows for yourself. www.gregfrewintheatre.com

it's a party on

The PURPLE LinE For WEGO route maps, schedules and more visit www.wegoniagarafalls.com

BUNDLE &

save

Save 30% on the top Niagara Falls attractions: Hornblower Niagara Cruises, Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara's Fury and White Water Walk and receive two days on the WEGO transportation service with the Niagara Falls Adventure Pass. You’ll also receive over $30 in Bonus Coupons for other exciting attractions, including the Whirlpool Aero Car and the Butterfly Conservatory. www.niagaraparks.com

visitniagaracanada.com

it's great on

The GREEN LinE

< Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory

White Water Walk, Whirlpool Aero Car & Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours > Feel the rush of the Class 6 Whirlpool Rapids, North America’s largest series of standing waves, on the roaring boardwalk trek that’s known as the White Water Walk. Once you’ve walked beside them, take in the view from above while riding the Whirlpool Aero Car, an antique cable car that takes you high above the raging Niagara River, or brave the rapids on a Whirlpool Jet Boat tour. www.niagaraparks.com, www.whirlpooljet.com

Queenston Heights Park

Be amazed by the over 2,000 butterflies that live here as you explore the 180 metres of lush trails inside the Butterfly Conservatory. This truly immersive experience may include your new fluttering friends catching a ride on your shoulder as you explore their tropical home. www.niagaraparks.com

Home to the first major battle of the War of 1812, the events that took place at the Battle of Queenston Heights, including the death of Sir Isaac Brock, unified Upper Canadians behind the war effort. Today, Queenston Heights Park is filled with gorgeous floral displays, a children's splash pad, tennis courts, a band shell and plenty of open green space for family picnics. High on the Niagara Escarpment, the park remembers its past with both the Brock and Laura Secord Monuments. Take a walking tour of the historic sites to gain a fascinating perspective on our proud history. www.niagaraparks.com

< Hornblower Niagara Cruises This year, Hornblower Niagara Cruises introduces state-of-the-art Catamaran boat tours of Niagara Falls that will take the legacy of North America’s oldest tourist attraction and elevate it to an entirely new level. Your Voyage To The Falls tour will sail you past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and into the misty heart of the mighty Horseshoe Falls. New Sunset Cocktail Cruises, Falls Illumination Cruises and Falls Fireworks Cruises offer exciting options for seeing the Falls in a whole new light. www.niagaracruises.com

Queen Victoria Park

Bird Kingdom > Be sure to soar into this popular Niagara Falls attraction - the largest free-flying indoor aviary in the world. You’ll find more than 400 birds from 80 species fluttering through the spectacular, multi-level, indoor rainforest that features a 40-foot waterfall and a jungle of tropical plants. www.birdkingdom.ca

Overlooking the magnificent Horseshoe and Bridal Veil Falls, this is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of some of the more high-traffic areas. Be sure to bring your camera! www.niagaraparks.com

for little ones

Did you know there is no admission fee for children five and under at Niagara Parks attractions? For a complete list of applicable attractions, visit www.niagaraparks.com

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

Floral Showhouse

free fun

Some of Niagara’s most beautiful blooms can be enjoyed at the Floral Showhouse, a visitor favourite for more than 60 years. Inside, you’ll find orchids, succulents and other tropical plant species, along with colourful tropical birds. When the weather cooperates, tour the impressive outdoor pond, rose and fragrance gardens. www.niagaraparks.com

visitniagaracanada.com

where's the party Niagaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun-filled fetes are always

in season

Go to visitniagaracanada.com for a complete list of upcoming events

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

DĂ&#x17D;NER EN BLANc, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

NOTABLE NIAGARA

Niagara loves a good party and no matter what time of year you visit, you’re bound to find some sort of celebration happening. While each has its unique flavour, they all share a “the more, the merrier” philosophy that encourages guests from near and far to join in on the fun.

spring and summer soirées Niagara Falls Comic Con has become such a

Each year Niagara ushers in summer with a solstice

beloved event that a third day has been added

celebration like no other. The New Vintage Festival’s

to this June’s annual celebration of super heroes.

annual Tailgate Party is held in the vineyard of the

This year William Shatner, Dean Cain and a

grape grower who’s been crowned as Grape King

seriously diverse cast of characters will be making

during the annual Niagara Wine Festival. This

their way to Niagara to mingle with fans.

delicious event celebrates the delicious connections

June 6, 7, 8, 2014.

between vineyard, farm, winemaker and chef with

www.niagarafallscomiccon.com

wine and food pairings, live music and a whole

Niagara Falls’ Springlicious is a great local street festival that serves up the best Niagara has to offer. Explore historic Queen Street and enjoy culinary delights, great live music, exceptional beers and wines from the Niagara region and fun family entertainment. May 30, 31 and June 1, 2014. www.springlicious.ca Niagara VegFest in downtown St. Catharines’ Market

lot of fun. The New Vintage Festival also features two weekends of wine and culinary adventures at wineries across Niagara through the New Vintage Discovery Pass. Discovery Pass holders can enjoy eight unique tasting experiences at award-winning wineries and designated drivers can enjoy eight mocktail and culinary pairings at a reduced rate with the Driver's Discovery Pass. June 14 – 22, 2014. www.niagarawinefestival.com

Square celebrates the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle by showcasing dozens of exhibitors, vendors and speakers from the Niagara region and beyond. June 1, 2014. www.niagaravegfest.com Music lovers won’t want to miss Welland’s IlluminAqua concert series from June through August where top Canadian musical talent performs on a floating stage surrounded by floating fire pods on the waters of the former Welland Canal. June 13, July 4, August 8, August 29, 2014. www.illuminaqua.com NIAGARA NEW VINTAGE FESTIVAL

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CLOCKWISE: IlluminAqua, Welland Canal; Marshville Heritage Festival, WAINFLEET (Photo taken by b. pearce) and canal Days, Port Colborne.

Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Dîner en Blanc combines culinary

and kite show, enter the annual Canal Days Mountain Bike

delights with friendship, wine, wardrobes of white and a

Race and enjoy great family activities, shopping and food.

top-secret location for an evening you’ll never forget. Be

August 1 - 4, 2014. www.portcolborne.ca/page/canal_days

sure to register early, as spaces are limited. June 12, 2014. www.niagara.dinerenblanc.info The Fort Erie Friendship Festival celebrates peace along the longest unprotected border in the world with great music, crafters, fireworks and fun events, like the Hands Across the Border giant human handshake across the Peace Bridge. June 27 - July 1, 2014. www.friendshipfestival.com During the first weekend of August, Port Colborne celebrates Canada’s Civic Holiday with the annual Canal Days Marine

What better place to celebrate the perfection of the peach than Niagara-on-the-Lake? The town’s annual Peach Festival in August includes live music, street markets, historic displays, entertainment, fun and lots of Greenbelt-grown peaches. Don’t miss Sunday evening’s Shades of Summer Dinner, where 1,000 diners will sit down to an alfresco moonlit dinner along Queen Street. Enjoy live music as you dine on delectable dishes you’ve packed for yourself, or ordered in advance from the talented Signature Kitchens chefs. Reserve your table early! August 9, 10, 2014. www.niagaraonthelake.com

Heritage Festival. This four-day celebration offers activities

On Labour Day weekend in Wainfleet, the past meets the

and attractions that celebrate the rich, nautical history of this

present at the Marshville Heritage Festival with engaging

marine community and its connections to the St. Lawrence

demonstrations celebrating skills, crafts, professions and foods

Seaway. Cruise Lake Erie on a Tall Ship, enjoy concerts from

from days gone by. August 30, 31, September 1, 2014.

top-notch talent, take in Ontario’s largest outdoor classic car

www.marshvilleheritagefestival.com

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

13 different passports, no jetlag Touring passes are a fabulous way to discover new wineries while sipping and savouring Niagara wines and cuisine. Purchase a touring pass for one of the programs below and you’ll have access to a collection of ready-to-be enjoyed signature experiences that can’t be duplicated anywhere else on the planet.

NiAGARA WINE FESTIVAL, ST. CATHARINES

fall frolics

In September, foodies descend on downtown Welland for Niagara’s tastiest party, the Niagara Food Festival. Enjoy fantastic food, cooking demonstrations from celebrity chefs, live entertainment and more.

passport program

date

Wine and Herb

May

GRAze the bench

june

New Vintage Festival

June

Niagara Wine Festival

September

Taste the Season

November

Wrapped up in the Valley

November

Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival

January

Niagara Icewine Festival

January

Twenty Valley Winter WInefest

January

Twenty Valley SWEET SPARKLING SENSATIONAL EXPERIENCE

February

Days of Wine and Chocolate

February

Cuvée Enroute

March

Get Fresh in the Valley

APRIL

September 5, 6, 7, 2014. www.niagarafoodfestival.com The Niagara Wine Festival has been celebrating all things grape each September for over six decades. The party lasts for three weeks and features

to dine for events

over 100 events including great concerts, one of Canada’s largest street

Time your next trip to coincide with one of Niagara’s dining promotions and enjoy fantastic food with a serving of great savings on the side.

parades, food and wine tastings, and the Discovery Pass Touring Program, featuring weekend wine and culinary adventures at wineries across Niagara. September 13 – 28, 2014. www.niagarawinefestival.com The Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival celebrates its fortieth anniversary this year and has become an annual tradition for locals and visitors alike on the long weekend in October. With over 130 selected artisans displaying and selling their creative wares such as pottery, paintings, jewelry, ornaments and clothing, it’s also a great time to get a head start on holiday shopping. October 10 – 13, 2014. www.ballsfalls.ca

St. Catharines Downtown D’Lish, August and January, www.mydowntown.ca Niagara-on-the-Lake Fabulicious, November and March, www.signaturekitchensofniagaraonthelake. com/events

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The events detailed here are just a sample of the fun going on in Niagara. For a complete list, head to our events calendar at www.visitniagaracanada.com/events

ABOVE CLOCKWISE: OPG WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS, NIAGARA FALLS (©WFOL.COM CEmpey); NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE ICEWINE FESTIVAL and Twenty valley winter winefest.

winter blues busters

The Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights is the

Throughout the month of January, the communities of Niagara

largest illumination festival in Canada, transforming the city of

pull out all the stops for a variety of celebrations honouring one

Niagara Falls into a winter wonderland from November through

of the region’s most beloved exports, Icewine.

January. Holiday light displays, Friday night fireworks and skating

The Niagara Icewine Festival is a cross-regional celebration of

amongst the famous backdrop of the Falls has made the Winter Festival of Lights a tradition for folks from near and far. With over three million sparkling and twinkling lights along a 6-km route, it’s no wonder Frommer’s Travel Guide ranked Niagara Falls as one of the world’s best decorated cities. November 2014 – January 2015. www.wfol.com Why watch Canada’s biggest and best New Year’s Eve celebration on television when you can be a part of the action? Join the thousands of happy revelers that arrive at Niagara Falls’ Queen Victoria Park to enjoy the great concerts, amazing fireworks, food and fun. Past performers have included superstars like

Niagara’s liquid gold. The annual Icewine Gala is Canada's largest tasting of VQA Icewine and table wines. The Discovery Pass allows holders to sample fabulous wine and culinary pairings along Niagara’s Wine Route. January 9 - 25, 2015. www.niagarawinefestival.com The Twenty Valley Winter WineFest takes over Jordan Village with a fantastic street party that shines the spotlight on the area’s VQA red, white and sparkling wines and Icewines. There are also plenty of locally inspired dishes, celebrity chef demonstrations, winemakers’ challenges, fashion shows and an unforgettable evening street party. January 10 - 11, 2015. www.twentyvalley.ca

Demi Lovato, Serena Ryder and Nelly Furtado. We can’t wait

Historic Queen Street transforms into a sparkling street scene for

to hear who will be rocking in 2015! December 31, 2014.

Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Icewine Festival. Visitors to this festival enjoy

www.niagaraparks.com

tutored tastings with some of Canada’s leading Icewinemakers, Icewine-inspired culinary creations, and an Icewine cocktail competition. January 17 - 18, 2015. www.niagaraonthelake.com

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES,

in the heart of Niagara’s Wine Country.

ESCAPE TO YOUR CHOICE OF AWARD-WINNING VINTAGE HOTELS IN NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, ONTARIO:

Theatre, romance, culinary and spa getaway packages any time of year 3 award-winning restaurants offering locally sourced cuisine 2 top-rated spas 3 saltwater pools One-of-a-kind hot springs Unique trolley tours of wine country Steps to local shops and artisans (free shuttle within town) GOLD LIST Condé Nast Traveler 2013

Location

NIAgara falls at night.

vintage-hotels.com

1-888-669-5566

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario visitniagaracanada.com

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

NIAGARA AGENDA

o h oked

Get caught up in some fabulous fishing on your next visit to Niagara.

gear up Be sure to bring an empty tackle box to stock up on fishing gear at the brand new Bass Pro Shops Outpost store in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The 80,000 squarefoot store, which is scheduled to open later this year, will serve as an anchor store for The Outlet Collection at Niagara.

the anglers have spoken

Bass Pro Shops’ unique, award-winning outdoor stores are

When the World Fishing Network announces its annual pick for

and outdoor education. The store also offers equipment and

the Ultimate Fishing Town, the world’s anglers take notice. That’s why the city of Port Colborne was as pleased as pickerel at being named WFN’s Ultimate Fishing Town for 2013.

known for combining retail with entertainment, conservation clothing for hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, camping, outdoor cooking and an expansive boat showroom. www.basspro.com

Port Colborne, which is located where the Welland Canal meets the north shore of Lake Erie, beat out 700 other American and Canadian towns competing in the challenge. Port Colborne’s waterways are world renowned for having some of the best bass, trout and walleye fishing on the Great Lakes. Big names, including Bob Izumi, love to fish these waters, and annual events, like the 444 International Walleye Tournament, draw avid competitors.

fish finder Use our insider tips and fish like a local on your next trip to Niagara. Mad for muskie? Head to Lake Erie's Gravelly Bay, especially during the month of June.

catch of the day Prefer your fish served up on a plate instead of on a hook? Betty’s Restaurant in Niagara Falls is sure to please. After over 45 years in

Itching for ice fishing?

the fish and chips business, Betty’s has become an institution with locals and tourists alike. www.bettysrestaurant.com

cast off with the kids Introduce future anglers to the joy of fishing at Safari Niagara in Stevensville. Your admission to the park includes complimentary

Feeling fly?

More and more fly fishers are heading to the shores of Lake Erie. Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority’s Mud Lake and Wainfleet Wetlands parks also offer great fly fishing.

Just perchy?

The perch are often hungry in the waters off Point Abino, just east of Port Colborne, especially in May and June.

fishing equipment and access to a fishing pond that’s stocked with bass and sunfish. www.safariniagara.com

go with the pro Contact a Niagara fishing outfitter to plan your next fishing adventure on Lake Ontario, Lake Erie or the Niagara River. Cast Adventures: www.castadventures.ca Niagara Fishing Adventures: www.niagarafishingadventures.com

Gravelly Bay is typically frozen for several months each winter and yields pike, perch, crappie and bass. Sugarloaf Point is also a popular ice fishing spot for perch.

Niagara Sport Fishing: www.niagarasportfishing.ca visitniagaracanada.com

NIAGARA AGENDA

choose your own adventure ANSWER A few easy questions FOR an amazing Niagara adventure aligned with your unique personality.

relax ing at the spa

With nothing else on your to-do list, how do you prefer to spend your free time? Resting and Relaxing

ycle morning c

If you’re craving some chill time, Niagara’s collection of worldclass spas is a wonderful place to start. One Hundred Fountain Spa, Secret Garden Spa, Spa at White Oaks, Shaw Club Spa, OSpa and Sanctuary International Day Spa are great choices in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara Falls favourites are Five Lake Spa AVEDA, Senses Spa and The Spa at Sterling Inn. Spa on the Twenty is another popular destination in Jordan Village.

www.visitniagaracanada.com/experiences/spas

Fresh Air Fun When nature calls, Niagara’s great cycling trails are a natural choice. The Greater Niagara Circle Route boasts over 140 kilometres of mostly off-road, paved trails that are a cyclist’s dream. Cycle and Stay Niagara, a network of "cycle-friendly" Bed & Breakfasts throughout Niagara, is a great resource for cyclists planning their next trip. Visit us online for some cycle-friendly accommodation suggestions: www.visitniagaracanada.com/we-love-cyclists

Cooking If you love making dinner even more than eating it, consider taking a cooking class on your next trip to Niagara. Beamsville’s The Good Earth Food and Wine Company offers a range of demonstration cooking classes around their huge kitchen island. Strewn’s Wine Country Cooking School in Niagara-onthe-Lake offers hands-on cooking classes designed to tempt your palate while increasing your culinary knowledge and appreciation of the relationship between food and wine. www.goodearthfoodandwine.com www.winecountrycooking.com

a cooking class

afternoon golf 30

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

Golfing

Home to over 40 courses, Niagara has the greatest concentration of golf courses in Canada. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned pro, you’ll discover beautifully designed courses with challenges for all levels of play. Visit us online for some suggestions: www.visitniagaracanada.com/experiences/ outdoor-activities/golf

the need f or

speed

Which tool do you use to prepare your favourite beverage? Cocktail Shaker Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers in Beamsville produces vodka and gin using local grapes and white rye made from 100 per cent Ontario rye grain. Their Sipping Room is a great place to sample and see how their products are made. Stock up on their unique line of bitters to create your very own signature cocktail at home. www.dillons.ca

Corkscrew Ontario wine takes centre stage each March at the annual Cuvée festivities. Mingle with the stars of Ontario's wine industry at the Cuvée Grand Tasting Gala while sampling the personal favourites of Ontario's winemakers and enjoying signature dishes. Spend the rest of the weekend tasting your way along the Niagara Wine Route with your Cuvée en Route touring passport. www.cuvee.ca

Bottle Opener Beer lover? You have plenty of tasting to look forward to on your next trip to Niagara, including Oast House Brewers and Silversmith Brewing Company in Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Merchant Ale House in St. Catharines. www.oasthousebrewers.ca, www.silversmithbrewing.com, www.merchantalehouse.ca

old-school arcade fun

When the kids finally let you choose, which video game are you most likely to pick? Mario Karts Niagara Go-Karts is one of North America’s fastest go-kart tracks. Their Formula 1 karts handle like a professional race car, with quick acceleration and super handling. www.gokartsniagara.com

Pac-man Niagara Falls has amazing arcades if you’re looking for a fun gaming experience that takes you back to the video games of your youth. You’ll find old-school favourites like Skee-Ball and Roll-a-Ball as well as all the latest and greatest interactive video games. www.piratescoveniagarafalls.com

Just Dance If you’re looking to dance the night away, head straight to the red-hot nightclubs of Niagara Falls. Once the sun sets, follow the beat and you’re bound to find a dance floor, or head to perennial favourites like Club Seven Nightclub, R5, Club Mardi Gras Bar and Patio, Hard Rock Night Club and Rumours Night Club. www.niagarafallstourism.com/play/nightlife

3 cheers

for beer

m wine gala gla our oc cktail h CUVÉE GALA, NIAGARA FALLSVIEW CASINO (ROBERT NOWELL)

dance, dance, dance visitniagaracanada.com

NIAGARA AGENDA

Which high school subject did you enjoy the most? Physics

adrenalin rush

love e r t a e h t live

t musketiq mys ue

Brush up on the study of motion, energy and force on a Whirlpool Jet Boat ride on the Niagara River's thrilling whitewater playground. Choose the Jet Dome Tour if you prefer a dry ride, or prepare to get soaked by the Class 5 rapids on the Wet Jet Tour. www.whirlpooljet.com

Drama In addition to plays by the acclaimed playwright, George Bernard Shaw, The Shaw Festival features plays from and about his era, along with contemporary plays that share his provocative exploration of society and celebration of humanity. This season’s playbill features Cabaret, The Philadelphia Story, The Philanderer, Arms and The Man, When We Are Married, Juno and the Paycock, The Charity that Began at Home: A Comedy for Philanthropists, The Sea, A Lovely Sunday for Creve Coeur and The Mountaintop. www.shawfest.com

History

Experience the sights and sounds of a historic military fort at Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Fort George or Old Fort Erie in the town of Fort Erie. Time your visit with one of the many special events and re-enactments taking place as part of the final year of War of 1812 – 1814 Bicentennial Celebrations. www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca, www.oldforterie.com

Art

creative e scape

Historic Rodman Hall in St. Catharines maintains a permanent collection of over 850 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, prints and drawings. While the primary focus of the collection is Canadian artists, 19th and 20th century American and European artists are also represented in the collection. www.brocku.ca/rodman-hall

RODMAN HALL, ST. CATHARINES (Michelle Nicholls)

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

Fort George

National National Historic Historic Site Site

n Informatio 88 8 -8 1-888-773 .gc.ca/ a d a parkscangeorge fort da.gc.ca/ parcscangaeorge fort

Lieu Lieu historique historique national national

Fort-George

THIS ROCKS! T! N A N N O I S S E R IMP visitniagaracanada.com

HERITAGE AND HISTORY

homes with

Salute the past on your next trip to Niagara with a visit to one OF the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s storied homesteads. Experience what life was like in Niagara between 1800 and 1830 with a visit to the beautifully restored McFarland House in Niagara-on-the-Lake. One of the oldest structures in Niagara-on-the-Lake, this Georgian home served as a hospital during the War of 1812 and a gun battery on the property helped guard the Niagara River. Guided tours of McFarland House are available from mid-May through Labour Day. Stop in for refreshments at the licensed Conservatory Tea Room. www.niagaraparks.com

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

In 1813, Laura Secord walked into Canadian history when she trekked 32 kilometres on foot through enemy lines to warn the British and their First Nations allies of an impending attack. Elevate your knowledge of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous heroine beyond her namesake chocolate with a tour of the Laura Secord Homestead in the village of Queenston. Learn about the adventures of this brave Canadian from costumed tour interpreters and then refuel with delicious ice cream and some Laura Secord chocolates. Guided tours of the Laura Secord Homestead are available daily from May through October. www.niagaraparks.com

The Keefer family was one of Canada’s most important engineering families, influencing the building of the Canadian Parliament Buildings, the Welland Canal, Canada’s first suspension bridge, Vancouver’s first sewer system and more. Get a glimpse into what life was like for this fascinating family at Thorold’s Keefer Mansion. While the building of this 9,000 square-foot mansion led to near bankruptcy for the family, today the stately home has been beautifully restored. Now a fully functioning bed and breakfast, visitors have the option of staying in one of the luxurious rooms or stopping in to enjoy local VQA wines and a tapas menu at the cocktail lounge. www.keefermansion.com

In addition to being one of the most important battles of the War of 1812, the Battle of Lundy's Lane was also the fiercest and bloodiest. After the war, veterans and tourists flocked to the Battle Ground Hotel, in order to see the infamous battlefield for themselves. Today, the 1850’s tavern has been restored into the Battle Ground Hotel Museum, featuring furnished period rooms and interesting artifacts from the War of 1812. The museum is open daily from Victoria Day through August 30th. Guided tours are available, but must be booked in advance. www.niagarafallsmuseums.ca

visitniagaracanada.com

GREAT DRIVES

country Come along for the ride as Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Indiana Jones of adventure driving and his favourite co-pilot discover the joys of top-down motoring in Niagara.

by Garry SowerBY & Lisa Calvi

Niagara-on-the-lake

Cruising through the twists and turns of Niagaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back roads is a pretty enjoyable way to spend the day.

It’s quiet, like the inside of a church. We are outside though and the late afternoon sun is dappling through the trees. We turn off the engine of our Audi Cabriolet to appreciate the stillness.

What better way to immerse oneself in the charm and history of Niagara than with a roofless car? The blue sky is our ceiling. Singing birds and chirruping crickets are our soundtrack.

Stepping out of the vehicle, I tiptoe across the grass, compelled by a feeling of reverence in the air, to have a look at the memorial cairn in the middle of the circle.

We are lucky enough to have found a few days of freedom to cruise. As we tool around this fertile section of land between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie that’s speckled with vineyards, fruit orchards and tree-lined back roads, we quickly discover we’ve landed smack dab in the middle of some of the nation’s best convertible country.

A tiny enclave of cottages around the circle in Grimsby Beach on the south shore of Lake Ontario has drawn us to this spot. With their whimsical colours and wooden scrollwork, the cottages look like they are made of gingerbread and belong in a fairy tale. We feel as if we’ve stepped into one. In the mid-1800s, a group of Methodists held religious revival summer camps here. The camps became so popular that in 1888, the group built a large auditorium in the centre of the circle that could hold 7,000 people. Campers who were tired of sleeping in tents during the weeks-long festival constructed the cute cottages. Today, a memorial cairn marks the spot where the auditorium once stood.

Nature’s perfumes and visual delights lend themselves to the lightness in spirit we are both feeling. A roofless car makes one have only loving thoughts for everything and everyone on Earth. Lake Ontario waves at us with gentle whitecaps. Roadside produce stands roll out a red-carpet welcome of colourful produce. We shift gears and smile. There’s no place we’d rather be right now. Although cruising through the twists and turns of Niagara’s back roads is a pretty enjoyable way to spend the day, there are a few other things we want to do while we’re here. While this is obviously one of the best places in Canada to do some serious winery hopping, we’ve chosen a different path for today. Well, maybe just one winery after we are all done with our driving for the day.

Forget the drive-thru! A road trip in Niagara means slowing down to fuel up on fresh, local cuisine.

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE: A spot of shade in Niagara; One of the charming painted cottages in Grimsby; Niagara peaches; The vineyard view at Ravine, (PHOTOGRAPHED BY Stephen Elphick); Stratus Winery's retail gallery; A guided tasting of Stratus wines; A Niagara orchard; Vineyard Restaurant at Ravine and aN Heirloom beet salad from Treadwell Farm-to-table Cuisine in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

visitniagaracanada.com

Go to visitniagaracanada.com to plan your next great road trip.

OPPOSITE PAGE: LOCK 3 WELLAND CANAL, st. catharines. ABOVE: WELLAND CANALs CEntre, st. catharines; lake erie beach fuN

One of the top items on our list of things to do is to witness a lift lock in action. We are sure many people coming to this area forget about the wonder of the Welland Canal, a humanmade system of locks that uses water and gravity to lift and lower massive ships in a watertight chamber. Each year, 3,000 massive vessels ply the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes. With the simply brilliant engineering marvel of a lock, these enormous ships can get up and down the Niagara Escarpment with relative ease and bypass Niagara Falls. We choose Lock 3 in St. Catharines as our destination and arrive just in time to see the colossal Maccoa, a 185-metre long vessel, approach the lock on the northern side. With our ragtop lowered, we’re able to enjoy a big view from the comfort of the cockpit. Despite the fact that a crowd of people has gathered to watch the huge ship get through the lock, it is strangely quiet. As at Auditorium Circle, there is a feeling of awe in the air, even though this ship-in-a-lock thing is a common occurrence. The gargantuan ship sits far below us, barely whispering as it glides to the end of the lock. The water then silently rises with astonishing speed and before we know it the ship is towering above us, ready to be released at the other end. With no set route or schedule to follow, we decide to loosely follow the ship’s path to Lake Erie at the southern end of the Welland Canal. We aren’t quite sure where we are going but this is actually another item on our ‘to do’ list in this relaxing road trip region. We have a mandate to just ‘putter’ and

maintain a fly-by-the-seat-of-our-pants attitude. This means we don’t always see what is on the must-see list. We’re not looking for vacation à la checklist, and it seems that Niagara is a wonderful place to do just that. We are looking for spontaneity and serendipity, a philosophy with which driving a convertible goes hand-in-hand. In the 15 seconds it takes to lower the top, voilà, instant vacation! It really doesn’t matter where we are going or what route we use to get us there. Before long, we find ourselves at Port Colborne’s Elco Beach. We stride up the dune and breathe deeply, wiggling our toes in the warm sand. The wind is whipping Lake Erie into a furious ocean. Nature is alive and well in Niagara and deserving of reverence, not for its peace and calm here but for its show of enthralling power and undisputable authority. A day that’s unrolled with neither a map nor a plan has helped us remember how great it can feel to get lost on your own terms. Our tranquil puttering in the fairy tale world of the Niagara Peninsula reminds us of the joy that can be found in these spontaneous kinds of days. The wind in our hair may have helped a bit too.

The view from the Falls If you’re staying in Niagara Falls, there are plenty of great options for scenic cruising, including the Niagara Parkway, which meanders along the Niagara River from Niagara Falls to Fort Erie. Learn more about this great route at www.visitniagaracanada.com/freewheeling-niagara

visitniagaracanada.com

ARTS AND CULTURE

your stuff You can’t spell PARTY without A-R-T, and nowhere is that more evident than during the Niagara Artists Centre’s STRUTT Wearable Art Weekend. The annual November mashup of art, fashion and music channels the vibes of New York Fashion Week, an industrial rave and a colony of creatives, culminating in a surreal party scene that you must see, hear and feel to believe.

Experience the surreal party scene that must be seen to be believed. 42

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

The crown jewel of the weekend is Canada’s largest wearable art show, the STRUTT Runway Show. Last year’s extravaganza showcased over 40 unique wearable artworks created by artists from across the province.

Set inside an edgy St. Catharines industrial space, partygoers sip Niagara wines, savour regional cuisine and rock to live Canadian music. Last year alt-country legends, The Sadies wowed the crowd, and apparently the feeling was mutual. Rumour has it that the boys are itching to come back for this year’s show. While details regarding STRUTT 2014 hadn’t been released at the time of printing, we can guarantee it will be an experience you’ll never forget. Check out www.struttwearableartshow.ca for the latest details.

visitniagaracanada.com

Connect with nature in Niagara on Canada’s oldest and longest footpath By Micah Toub

Walking is known to provide great benefits to the mind and body, but most of the time we walk with stress at our heels – hustling to work, crossing off errands, or just getting to where we’re going. Home to the southernmost section of Ontario’s great Bruce Trail, Niagara provides several excellent options to slow your pace, calm the traffic in your head and reclaim this most common pastime while exploring Canada’s oldest and longest footpath.

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

Plan your Niagara hiking holiday at visitniagaracanada.com

Twenty Mile Creek, Ball's Falls CONSERVATION AREA, Jordan (Daniel K. Wilson Photography)

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Let’s start at the very beginning Eighty of the 885 kilometres that make up the Bruce Trail pass through the Niagara region, and in fact, a small stone cairn at the south border of Queenston Heights Park marks the trail’s official southern terminus. From there, you can walk on the unbroken Bruce all the way to Tobermory. Many have done it, but best to begin with ambitions that are just a tad more relaxed. Queenston Heights Restaurant's outdoor patio provides a spectacular view of the Niagara River, which is also the site of a major battle in the War of 1812. You’ll find it quite peaceful, however, as you fuel up for the day. Make sure that you’ve downloaded or ordered a map from the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s website in advance and then ask your server to point you towards the spot where the trail proper begins, at the west end of the park. The Bruce Trail starts off in grand fashion, wide and with a majestic view down the Escarpment. About twenty minutes in, the trail narrows to an intimate width, allowing your feet to brush against the wildflowers that appear in openings among the trees. As the gentle hypnosis of the walk sets in, you can hike on this easy trail for as long as you like, letting your mind decompress as it reflects on the simplicity of trees that are hundreds of years old. Double back when you’re ready and end the day with a short drive into the town of Queenston, where you can take a tour of The Laura Secord Homestead and buy chocolate that honours the famous heroine who took a long walk (32 kilometres) herself to warn of an American attack. If heading back the same day doesn’t appeal, take advantage of hospitality along the way to keep going. At a steady pace, you can reach Four Mile Creek Road in an hour and a half. When you emerge from the wooded area at this crossing, instead of following the white blaze trail markers to the left, you can take a right and head to St. Davids. Fifteen minutes of strolling and a left on York Road will bring you to Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery, which serves lunch and dinner. The outdoor pizza bar overlooking the vineyard is a delicious setting to rest your feet. If you’d like to start hiking in the

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

afternoon and spend the night here, the Green Oaks Bed & Breakfast backs out onto Ravine’s vineyard. Or check out the town’s many other accommodations, including the Historic Secord House. Built in 1782, it is designated as Niagara-onthe-Lake’s oldest home. For the more ambitious hiker, an all-day walk on the Bruce – or roughly eight hours – brings you to the back garden of The Morningstar Cottage Bed & Breakfast, which abuts the trail itself. Owner, Denise Bradden, is happy to drop you off at Queenston in the morning with a packed lunch in hand. For a two-day walk, Bradden says a five- or six-hour hike the other direction from her place will bring you to the Louth Conservation Area. Of course, if your eyes end up bigger than your feet are on either of those days, she’s happy to come pick you up at whatever point tired toes say, “No more.”

Savour something on the side The Niagara region has plenty of side trails and loops for those who have other plans but want to include a hike as part of their day. Trudy Senesi, past president of the Niagara Bruce Trail Club, suggests the Terrace Creek Side Trail inside of Short Hills Provincial Park, which you can access just off of Pelham Road east of the Fifth Line. A truly immersive journey into the lush green of the region, the trail winds up, around and down the hills that give the park its name. At a brisk pace, the hike takes just over an hour, but remember: you’re taking your time to smell the flowers. In the spring, Trilliums abound and at other times you’ll catch sight of Queen Anne’s Lace, wild lilies and Phlox. Stop for a breather at the Terrace Creek Falls to listen to the water play against the rocks. A proudly well-maintained trail, hiking club members have built and carried in bridges to take you over the creek wherever needed. Afterwards, a short drive west along Pelham Road brings you to the Henry of Pelham Winery where you can try some of the sommelier’s recommendations and have a meal on the cozy backyard patio. Senesi’s second favourite trail is the Woodend Conservation Area off of Taylor Road just east of St. Catharines. The Bruce Trail Conservancy’s website includes inexpensive downloadable maps for these suggested side trails, as well as many others.

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Ingrid Sapona

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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE: ANGELS GATE WINERY, BEAMSVILLE; HIDDEN BENCH WINERY, BEAMSVILLE; ANGELS GATE WINERY, BEAMSVILLE. ABOVE: PENINSULA RIDGE ESTATE WINERY, BEAMSVILLE; HIDDEN BENCH WINERY, BEAMSVILLE.

A grape way to spend the day For those who have dreamt of strolling amidst the vines, seven neighbouring wineries have organized the Beamsville Bench Vineyard Trail, on which a wine lover can easily spend a half-day or more. Park at Angels Gate, and after tasting the winery’s awardwinning Pinot Gris, ask for a map of the trail. As you head out, make sure to stop for contemplation at the winery’s pond for a moment where you’ll find the perfect role model for your day – a snapping turtle taking his sweet time getting from one end to the other. Follow the yellow diamond trail markers through the property and down to the Thirty Bench Wine Makers where the trail guides you through the vine rows. Take a moment to spot the clusters of pearl-sized grapes, and imagine you are a vintner inspecting the yield. Across Mountainview Road, the trail takes you around the far edge of the Rosewood Estates Winery, through more vines, and then up to the house where you can try some mead. In case the rush of the city made you forget how sweet life is, this honey-flavoured wine is a tasty reminder. Returning to Angels Gate, you can take a break for lunch on their terrace overlooking all three wineries you’ve just passed. The kitchen utilizes earthy flavours and local ingredients for dishes that include “Ontario ground lamb slider with mint pea relish.” The upper loop of the trail – which takes you around and through Hidden Bench Winery, The Organized Crime Winery, and Fielding Estate Winery – starts after a short walk up Mountainview Road. On your way there, look out for a couple of horses using the shade of a tree for their standing meditation.

Peninsula Ridge isn’t connected directly to the other six wineries, but a short drive down the road is rewarded by a walk through the vines there as well. Take this last stroll to collect a few mental snapshots of the sights and sounds of Niagara, ones you can use back home to keep your newfound serenity in your stride. For more information, please visit:

www.brucetrail.org www.niagaraparks.com www.greenoaksinn.ca www.historicsecordhouse.com www.bbcanada.com/morningstar www.npca.ca/conservation-areas/woodend www.friendsofshorthillspark.ca www.henryofpelham.com www.angelsgatewinery.com www.rosewoodwine.com www.hiddenbench.com www.organizedcrimewine.com www.fieldingwines.com www.peninsularidge.com

The view from the Falls Looking for a Niagara Escarpment hiking option a little closer to the Falls? Consider the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve where walking trails will take you down to one of the lowest points of the Escarpment at the edge of the Niagara Gorge. Learn more at www.visitniagaracanada.com/naturally-reserved

visitniagaracanada.com

Wine Country Ontario

Our wines have put us on the map. Ontario award-winning vintages have won praise the world over. So now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to venture into our own backyard and discover these critically acclaimed wines and wineries. Plan your trip: winecountryontario.ca @winecountryont facebook.com/winecountryontario #winecountryont

Prince Edward County Lake Erie North Shore Emerging Regions Niagara Escarpment & Twenty Valley Niagara-on-the-Lake

GREAT DRIVES

FRESH FINDS Tag along with Canadian design authority, Cobi Ladner, as she discovers a whole new Niagara.

It’s a good thing that Cobi Ladner loves her work, because even when she slips away from the office for a few days, her keen eye for design and signature sense of style never goes on vacation. Cobi, who is credited with transforming Canadian House and Home magazine into the country’s bible of decorating and home inspiration during her 18 years there, now sits at the helm of her own design empire. Cobistyle, her line of home décor products that includes upholstered furniture, fabric, draperies, accessories and lighting, can be found in stores across the country. Whether she’s scoring vintage finds at an antique market, chatting with shop owners at the region’s eclectic mix of stores and galleries, or soaking in vineyard views from a sunny patio, a few days exploring Niagara provides Cobi with endless inspiration and a trunk full of treasures. Come along for the ride and pick up a few pointers for your next trip to Niagara from one of Canada’s most beloved design gurus.

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GREAT DRIVES

“I feel like I’m in Sonoma! Let me get a picture I can’t believe I didn’t know about this!” marvels Cobi as she makes her way through Niagara-on-the-Lake’s busy Wednesday evening Supper Market enjoying delicious treats from the diverse range of food trucks and vendors. It’s not the first surprise of her trip. Cobi has been making regular pilgrimages to Niagara over the past thirty years, but this trip has been different. “There’s

a new energy here, it’s hard to describe, but it just feels like there’s been a shift.”

BEE MODERN FABRICS and YARNS, virgil

Go to visitniagaracanada.com to plan your shopping trip. Shop Class While Cobi may have trouble finding just the right words to describe Niagara’s new vibe, she certainly doesn’t have any problem capturing it in her shopping basket. Combing through the quaint shops of Jordan Village and Niagara-on-the-Lake, she repeatedly uncovers one-of-a-kind finds that surprise and delight. In Jordan Village’s Beauty Safari, a bottle of Blenheim Bouquet, Penhaligon’s signature fragrance that’s been on the market since 1902 and was a favourite of Sir Winston Churchill, makes the perfect gift for her husband. A stylish fedora from Niagara-on-the-Lake’s BeauChapeau Hat Shop is packaged up in a beautiful box to take home to her teenage daughter. A handcrafted necklace made by an artisan in Crystal Beach is wrapped up from Virgil’s Modern Bee as a lovely memento of her trip. A beautiful vintage kimono scooped up from Lakeshore Antiques and Treasures in Niagaraon-the-Lake will make a perfect addition to Cobi’s colourful wardrobe of interesting statement pieces.

beauchapeau hat shop, niagara-on-the-lake

beauty safari, jordan village

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ABOVe clockwise: doug forsythe gallery, niagara-on-the-lake; the garrison house, niagara-on-the-lake; s&b antique gallery, jordan village; ninavik native arts, jordan village; beauty safari, jordan village and s&b antique gallery, jordan village.

PErSONALITY PLUS “What an incredibly talented family,” Cobi sighs after touring Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Doug Forsythe Gallery. In addition to showcasing the works of its namesake, the gallery displays pieces by his wife Marsha, a painter and printmaker; his son Jonathan, a photographer; and his daughter Stephanie and her husband, Todd MacAllen, two architects whose innovative, collapsible furniture can also be found at The Museum of Modern Art in New York City. It’s not just the plethora of interesting finds in Niagara that captivate Cobi; it’s the people behind them. As Cobi makes her way through the region’s shops and galleries, the friendly, casual conversations she has make it feel more like a high school reunion than a shopping trip. Shop, winery and gallery staff are proud of their treasures and happy to help customers find just the right thing to take home as a memento of their time in Niagara. “I’ve always felt strongly that your home should showcase your unique journey through life. Bringing back a few pieces from Niagara that will always remind you of the great fun you had here is such a perfect way to do that,” says Cobi.

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

Bring home beautiful memories of your Niagara getaway with some of Cobiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite finds:

Antique barware, like this liqueur set from S & B Antique Gallery in Jordan Village, is a fun way to remember a day spent sipping your way through the Niagara Wine Route.

Frame vintage Niagara Falls postcards like this one from Lakeshore Antiques and Treasures.

queen street, niagara-on-the-lake

This serving tray, made from a reclaimed wine barrel, found at Refuge in Niagara-on-the-Lake is fabulous and functional. visitniagaracanada.com

Can’t-miss Niagara wineries for architectural design enthusiasts • Jackson-Triggs Winery • Stratus • Southbrook Vineyards

• Tawse Winery • Flat Rock Cellars • Fielding Estate Winery

“If people think they know Niagara wineries because they did a tour back in the 90’s, they really need to come back and see how things have evolved.”

fill your trunk “Oh, let’s pull over and check this place out,” exclaims Cobi as she spots a hand-painted roadside sign advertising plants. She quickly discovers that veering off the highway to explore

OPPOSITE PAGe: stratus, niagara-on-the-lake. above CLOCKWISE: stratus, niagara-on-the-lake; a niagara fruit stand and greaves JAMS, niagara-on-the-lake

BOTTLE SHOCK

some of Niagara’s side roads can really pay off. Beautiful perennials and shrubs including Shasta daisies, boxwoods and mile-high ornamental grasses can often be found at a fraction of the cost of their big-city cousins at Niagara’s

“This space is just absolutely stunning.” It’s not the first time

roadside stands and garden centres. Mori Gardens and

that the staff at Stratus has heard that remark made about their

Regal Florist and Garden Centre are fan favourites among

boutique and tasting room, but it’s clear to see they’re pleased

Niagara-on-the-Lake green thumbs. In Twenty Valley, The

that Cobi shares their sense of appreciation for the beautiful

Watering Can’s Vineland Garden Centre offers a custom

winery. Designed by noted interior designer, Diego Burdi of

planting program in the spring so patrons can drop off

Burdifilek, Stratus’ tasting room and boutique have a cozy but

planters, window boxes and baskets and return later in the

cool aesthetic that encourages guests to linger as they sip and

day to pick up beautifully designed solutions tailored to

sample and browse through an interesting collection of books

their unique growing zone.

and distinctive wine accessories.

Niagara’s many produce stands also offer another opportunity

“If people think they know Niagara wineries because they did a

to stock up on the fresh and fragrant flavours for which the

tour back in the 90’s, they really need to come back and see how

region is famous. Gourmet jams, jellies and preserves are

things have evolved,” comments Cobi. “From a design perspective

another great thing to take home to brighten up winter meals

alone, there is just so much to see.”

with the flavours of Niagara. visitniagaracanada.com

the call

of the mall

In addition to unique shopping districts, Niagara’s also got a dynamite collection of shopping malls.

NEW

The Outlet Collection

Niagara-on-the-Lake

This brand new outlet centre right off the QEW will feature 100 irresistible outlet retailers, including Banana Republic, Bench, Brooks Brothers, Calvin Klein, Forever 21, Gap, Izod, Michael Kors, Osh Kosh, Tommy Hilfiger and more when it opens in May 2014. www.outletcollectionatniagara.com

The Pen Centre St. Catharines

You’ll find over a million square feet of shopping above: supper market, niagara-on-the-lake

including popular national stores and brands here. There’s also a 10-screen movie theatre in case your travelling companion isn’t as excited

MANY HAPPY RETURNS “Wow, I’ve really done well, haven’t I?” laughs Cobi as she inspects the various treasures that have accumulated in the trunk of her car over the course of her day in Niagara. But thoughtful gifts and personal mementos aren’t the only things that Cobi’s taking home from her trip. She’s returning to the city with a brand new outlook on one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. And a promise to return with a much larger trunk. For more information, please visit: Jordan Village: www.20valley.ca/page/shopping Niagara-on-the-Lake: www.niagaraonthelake.com/page/tripplanning/Shopping Beauty Safari: www.beautysafari.com Beau Chapeau: www.beauchapeau.com Modern Bee: www.beefabrics.ca Lakeshore Antiques and Treasures: www.lakeshoreantiques.net Landmark Shops of Niagara-on-the-Lake: www.landmarkshopsofniagaraonthelake.com Doug Forsythe Gallery: www.dougforsythegallery.com Refuge Antiques and Giftery: www.refugeniagara.com Mori Gardens: www.morigardens.com Regal Florist and Garden Centre: www.regalflorist.com The Watering Can: www.thewateringcan.ca Stratus: www.stratuswines.com Cobi Ladner: www.cobistyle.com

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

about shopping as you are. www.thepencentre.com

Canada One Factory Outlets Niagara Falls

Hit 40 brand name stores including Coach, Escada, Roots, and Nike right in the heart of Niagara Falls’ tourist district. www.canadaoneoutlets.com

The view from the Falls Looking for unique finds in the heart of Niagara Falls? In addition to great gaming and entertainment, Fallsview Casino Resort is a fabulous destination for shopping. The glamourous Galleria offers dozens of interesting boutiques filled with the latest styles, accessories, gifts and collectibles, toys, specialty foods and fine art. www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com/amenities/shopping

Breathtaking! This isNiagara Falls! Holiday Inn By The Falls is just steps from the Falls, the famous Skylon Tower and the Fallsview Casino.

One night from $99*PP/DB includes a beautifully appointed room, a Romantic Fallsview Dinner

for two high atop the Skylon Tower Revolving Dining Room, breakfast for two in Coco’s Restaurant at Holiday Inn, a Niagara wine tasting at Inniskillin Estate, full use of Nordic Spa and more! Two-night Breakation Package from $169*PP/DB. Ask about our Niagara Attractions Package!

Call Now! 1.800.263.9393 Niagara Falls, Canada

holidayinnniagarafalls.com

*Rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Prices valid Sun to Thurs. Holidays, weekends higher. Tax extra. Free parking. Rates higher after June 12, 2014. Child add-ons, whirlpool suites, gift certificates also available. *Subject to exchange rates. Visit www.holidayinnniagarafalls.com for details.

Sleep Well.Next to the Thunder of the Falls One Night Casino Package...

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Two Nights from $149*PP/DB including meals... 2 full breakfasts, dinner at Coco’s Steakhouse, and a superb dinner high atop Skylon’s Revolving Dining Room overlooking the Falls. Ask about our Niagara Attractions Package...

Book Now! 1-800-663-3301 qualityhotelfallsview.com

*Rates are per person, double occupancy. Prices valid Sun to Thurs. Holidays, weekends higher. Tax extra. Free parking. Rates valid until June 26, 2014. Child add-ons, whirlpool suites, gift certificates also available. *Subject to exchange rates. Visit www.qualityhotelfallsview.com for details.

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fantastic four Spend a day discovering the shining stars of Niagara Wine Country

By John Szabo MS

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

With over 75 award-winning wineries dotted throughout the region, narrowing down your choices for a day or two of touring in Niagara can seem like an overwhelming task. Relax, and let one of Canada’s leading wine experts be your guide. We’ve asked Master Sommelier, John Szabo, to share his must-see and must-sip selections for your next visit to Niagara. Niagara is a cool climate region, best suited to early ripening grape varieties. Over the past few decades, four grapes have emerged here as consistent winners: Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc. While these are not the only grapes that perform well in Niagara, they do make a perfect starting point to begin your explorations. So choose your favourite variety and taste your way through some of the best things that are happening in Ontario wine. The following itinerary suggestions will take you to some of our country’s world-class producers of each grape, but don’t forget to try their other specialties too.

Lailey Vineyard, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE (Mathew Plexman photography)

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Riesling Rocks Riesling is the wine lover’s wine: a pristine, transparent reflection of place, zesty and food friendly, as refreshing as a summer shower.

Start your tour at Vineland Estates, where you’ll see some of the oldest Riesling vineyards in Ontario. Brian Schmidt crafts Riesling in an off-dry style, the best of which is the St. Urban Vineyard. The winery restaurant has a beautiful view of Lake Ontario and Toronto. The gourmet market above the wine shop has a great selection of artisanal Canadian cheeses. riesling grapes

A BEAMSVILLE VINEYARD

Quaint Jordan Village and Cave Spring Cellars is just a short drive away. Angelo Pavan makes no fewer than eight Rieslings, from sparkling to Icewine. If you’re limited to just one, make it the old vine CSV, a dry, full-bodied essence of Escarpment limestone. The main street in Jordan is lined with boutiques and cafés, ideal for meandering after your tasting. Next, make your way to Flat Rock Cellars, perched on top of the Escarpment overlooking Lake Ontario. Proprietor Ed Madronich’s focus was clear from opening day in 2005: the winery only makes Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling.

door-to-door service

There’s no need to draw straws to determine who will drive from winery to winery. In addition to offering pre-set itineraries, companies like Crush on Niagara Wine Tours, Community Transport Group and Grape Escape Wine Tours provide customized shuttle service for small groups. Need wheels to get to Niagara Wine Country? Niagara Airbus will pick you up from your home or hotel in Toronto and whisk you away for a day of touring.

Here you’ll want to try the Nadja’s Vineyard Riesling, named after Ed’s mother, a wine of shimmering purity and quivering acidity. Gourmet food trucks are regularly spotted at Flat Rock on summer weekends, giving you more reasons to try another sample. Your Riesling itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a taste of Canada’s signature style: Icewine. Head to Niagara-on-theLake and the birthplace of Icewine, Inniskillin. Founders Don Ziraldo and Karl Kaiser made some of their first wines from frozen grapes in the mid-eighties and have led the pack ever since. They produce four Icewines, but the Riesling is the class of the lot.

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

flat rock cellars, JORDAN

Chardonnay Heyday Chardonnay is the most planted fine white wine grape in the world and it comes in a wide variety of styles. Niagara excels at the citrusy and stony cool climate version. To underscore

southbrook vineyards, niagara-on-the-lake

the region’s strength, a group of winemakers banded together in 2010 to create the annual International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration, or “i4c,” which takes place July 18-20, 2014. The event includes vineyard dining experiences, culinary showcases and over sixty wineries from Ontario and abroad making Chardonnay in the key of cool. www.coolchardonnay.org Start your cool Chardonnay tour at Hidden Bench, one of Niagara’s most uncompromising operations. Founder Harald Thiel spares no expense to highlight the unique character of his 100 acres of vineyards on the Beamsville Bench. Twist an arm to get a taste of the Tête de Cuvée Chardonnay, the winery’s top selection. The next stop is the venerable Henry of Pelham winery. The Speck brothers, Paul, Matt and Daniel, merrily recall shovel planting the family’s first vineyards in the mid-eighties, the

hidden bench winery, beamsville

first in the Short Hills Bench. Chardonnay fanatics go for the Speck Family Reserve as well as the bubbly Cuvée Catherine. Stay to enjoy a casual lunch at the Coach House Café. Venture to Niagara-on-the-Lake to experience Chardonnay grown in slightly warmer vineyards. Southbrook Vineyards, on Niagara Stone Road, is Canada’s first certified biodynamic winery (think ultra-organic), where Ann Sperling coaxes chardonnay grapes

henry of pelham family estate winery, st. catharines VINELAND ESTATES WINERY

significant richness from her Chardonnays, especially the Whimsy! and Poetica range, the latter featuring the work of Canadian poets. Enjoy artisanal pizza on the patio and admire this LEED certified, Jack Diamond-designed showpiece winery.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NIAGARA'S WINERIES, PLEASE VISIT: www.winecountryontario.ca www.twentyvalley.ca www.niagaraonthelake.com www.tourismstcatharines.ca fielding estate winery, BEAMSVILLE

13th street winery, st. catharines

cabernet franc grapes

a tasting flight at stratus

tawsE winery, vineland

stratus, niagara-on-the-lake

ravine vineyard, st. david's

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

pinot noir grapes

3. 4. Pining for Pinot

Let's be Franc

Winemakers who make Pinot Noir are often a little bit

Of the classic Bordeaux varieties, Cabernet Franc is the most

masochistic. It’s the variety they’ll pamper the most, lose

overlooked and under appreciated. Yet it’s perfectly suited

sleep over and then be the least satisfied with. Such is

to cool-moderate climates. At its best, it’s perfumed and

the emotion that Pinot engenders that a group of Niagara

floral, with a beguiling spicy-herbal tinge, less tannic than

specialists have dedicated a festival to it, aptly named The

Cabernet Sauvignon but more stately than Merlot.

Pinot Affair (www.thepinotaffair.com). Remember to be kind to the winemakers while touring.

Start your tour at Fielding Estate on the Escarpment above Beamsville. The cottage-like atmosphere of the winery,

A fine place to start is Tawse, an award-winning winery where

complete with Muskoka chairs (the tasting room is dubbed

you’ll see how vineyard-sensitive Pinot is. Paul Pender

“the wine lodge,” a nod to Heidi and Curtis Fielding’s

makes four single-vineyard Pinots, including the organic/

Haliburton heritage) makes this a warm and inviting place

biodynamically farmed Cherry Avenue and Quarry Road

to sample their firm and sturdy Cabernet Franc.

vineyards. Taste them side-by-side and compare their finer nuances.

Ravine Vineyard, a certified-organic 20-acre property on the ancient Niagara River bed in St. David’s produces another

It’s a short drive to 13th Street Winery where Burgundian-native

top contender. Ravine’s sumptuous but elegant Cabernet

Jean-Pierre Colas knows a thing or two about Pinot. The secret

Franc will capture your attention, but that’s not all. As you

here is the bubbly, the stunning Vintage Grande Cuvée is one

stand in the historic c. 1802 farmhouse you’ll smell the

of the country’s best. Art lovers will enjoy the original Canadian

aromas from the restaurant where casual but refined cuisine

art collection here, while foodies will want to stock up on local

comes from the onsite organic garden and nearby farms.

cheese and charcuterie at the onsite bakery and market.

Make your way toward Niagara-on-the-Lake and you

Continue your Pinot tour at Lailey Vineyard, a nine-acre

can’t miss the dramatic Stratus Winery, a LEED-certified

estate off of the Niagara Parkway near the picturesque town

contemporary glass, steel and stone structure. Although

of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Derek Barnett fashions his wines with

Stratus’ main aim is to make top-notch blends, each year

minimal intervention, expressing great purity. Ask for the

small lots of varietal wines are bottled and sold only at the

Brickyard Vineyard Pinot, or if there’s any left, the “Lot 48,”

winery. Ask for a sample of the ultra-concentrated Cabernet

of which only 48 cases are made in top vintages.

Franc, served in an elegant crystal glass. Looking for a few more wineries to add to your itinerary?

The view from the Falls

Visit us online for additional winery recommendations from John Szabo. www.visitniagaracanada.com/fantastic-four

Many of Niagara’s wineries are just a short drive from Niagara Falls. If your schedule doesn’t permit a winery visit on your next trip, dining at a restaurant with an extensive Niagara wine list, such as Windows by Jamie Kennedy, The Terrapin Grille, The Watermark and AG Inspired Cuisine, is another great way to explore the region’s fantastic wines. visitniagaracanada.com

niagara 365

This collection of can’t-miss events offers just a taste of all that’s happening in Niagara this year. For additional events and more details, go to visitniagaracanada.com.

FALLS ILLUMINATION, NIAGARA FALLS

may

June

Wine and Herb Passport Tour Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in May Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com

Niagara Falls Women’s Half Marathon June 1 Niagara Falls www.nfwhm.com

Shaw Garden Tour June 7 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.shawfest.com

Annual Hydrangea Display May 10 – June 6 Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse, Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com

Niagara VegFest June 1 St. Catharines www.niagaravegfest.com

Ride to Conquer Cancer Two-day Cycle Challenge June 7 – 8 Niagara Falls www.conquercancer.ca

Go Sip Girls: an evening of sipping, nibbling and shopping June 5 Jordan Village www.twentyvalley.ca

Dîner en Blanc June 12 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagara.dinerenblanc.info

Niagara Falls Comic Con June 6 – 8 Niagara Falls www.niagarafallscomiccon.com

IlluminAqua – Fire, Music, Water Concert Series June 13 Welland www.illuminaqua.com

Floral Showhouse Regal Geranium Show June 7 – 27 Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse, Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com

Flavours of Niagara Food Festival June 14 – 15 HH Knoll-Lakeview Park, Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca

Mother’s Day Tea at Historic McFarland House May 11 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraparks.com Spring in the Glen Tour May 16 Niagara Glen, Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com Spring Bird Migration Walk with Local Naturalists May 24 St. Catharines www.niagaranaturetours.ca Springlicious May 30 – June 1 Niagara Falls www.springlicious.ca

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

3rd Annual Pride in the Park June 7 Montebello Park, St Catharines www.prideniagara.com

Niagara New Vintage Festival June 14 – 22 Niagara www.niagarawinefestival.com Niagara Integrated Film Festival (NIFF) June 19 – 22 Locations throughout Niagara www.niff.co

NIAGARA 365

Strawberry Festival June 21 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com Summer Solstice Drumming Down the Sun June 21 Port Dalhousie www.niagaranaturetours.ca Fort Erie Friendship Festival June 28 – July 1 Fort Erie www.friendshipfestival.com Floral Showhouse Annual Summer Show June 28 – September 12 Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse, Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com

July Canada Day Celebrations at Fort George July 1 Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca Artistry By The Lake July 1 – 4 Queen’s Royal Park, Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com IlluminAqua – Fire, Music, Water Concert Series July 4 Welland www.illuminaqua.com Grapes of Wrath – Niagara’s Extreme Survival Race at 13th Street Winery July 5 St. Catharines www.cancer.ca/grapesofwrath 12th Annual Downtown St. Catharines Classic Car Show July 5 St. Catharines www.mydowntown.ca 23rd Annual Niagara-on-the-Lake Garden Tour July 5 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com Cherry Festival July 5 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com Battle of Chippawa Re-enactment July 5 – 6 Chippawa www.discover1812.com

Celtic Festival at Fort George July 12 Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca

Niagara Falls South Asian Festival August 17 Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Falls

Lavender Festival July 12 – 13 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.neoblavender.com

Echoes of Niagara’s Past August 23 – 24 Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca

International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration (i4c) July 18 – 20 Locations throughout Niagara www.coolchardonnay.org

IlluminAqua – Fire, Music, Water Concert Series August 29 Welland www.illuminaqua.com

Battle of Lundy’s Lane Commemoration July 25 Niagara Falls www.discover1812.com

Marshville Heritage Festival August 30 – September 1 Wainfleet www.marshvilleheritagefestival.com

2014 International Mela South Asian Festival & Bhangra Dance Competition July 25 – 26 Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Falls

August Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival August 1 – 4 Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca IlluminAqua – Fire, Music, Water Concert Series August 8 Welland www.illuminaqua.com Peach Celebration August 9 – 10 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com 200th Anniversary of the Siege of Fort Erie Re-enactment August 9 – 10 Fort Erie www.oldforterie.com Shades of Summer Harvest Dinner August 10 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com Fife and Drum Muster and Soldier’s Field Day August 16 – 17 Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca Annual BBQ & Blues at 13th Street Winery August 16 St. Catharines www.13thstreetwinery.com

Go to visitniagaracanada.com for additional events and more details.

September Niagara Food Festival September 5 – 7 Welland www.niagarafoodfestival.com Murder Mystery at Old Fort Erie September 5 – 6 Fort Erie www.oldforterie.com Polo Niagara September 6 Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca Autumn in the Niagara Glen Hiking Tour September 6 Niagara Glen, Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com Majestic Monarchs Event September 6 Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory, Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com Fall Handmade Market at 13th Street Winery September 12 – 13 St. Catharines www.handmademarket.ca Willowbank Stone Festival September 12 – 14 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.willowbank.ca visitniagaracanada.com

ongoing events

Catch these recurring events in Niagara

april to october Shaw Festival

Niagara-on-the-Lake

www.shawfest.com

Coca-Cola Concert Series and Falls Fireworks

May 16 – August 31 Queen Victoria Park Stage, Niagara Falls

www.niagaraparks.com

JUNE to september Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Summer Concert Series

June – September Niagara-on-the-Lake

www.jacksontriggswinery.com Supper at the Market Wednesdays

Wednesdays from June through September, 5 pm - dusk Niagara-on-the-Lake

www.marketatthevillage.ca

Safari Niagara Annual Summer Concert Series

June-August Stevensville

www.safariniagara.com Friday Night Frights – Ghost Tours at Old Fort Erie

June 14, July 11, August 22, at 9 pm Fort Erie

www.oldforterie.com

RCMP Officer Meet and Greet

Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, 10 am – 4 pm June 27 – August 31 Table Rock Visitor Centre, Niagara Falls

www.niagaraparks.com

Music Niagara Concert Series

July – August Niagara-on-the-Lake

www.musicniagara.org

NOVEMBER TO JANUARY Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights

November – January 31, 2015 Niagara Falls

www.wfol.com

Niagara Wine Festival September 18 – 28 Niagara www.niagarawinefestival.com A Walk Through History: Theatrical Cemetery Tour September 19, 20, 26, 27 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarahistorical.museum

October Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival October 10 – 13 Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, Jordan www.ballsfalls.ca All Hallows Eve Tours October 18, 25, 25 Old Fort Erie Fort Erie www.niagaraparks.com The Battle of Cook’s Mills October 18 Welland www.discover1812.com Niagara Falls International Marathon RunFEST Weekend October 24 – 26 Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsmarathon.com

November Wrapped Up in the Valley November 8, 9,15,16, 22, 23 Twenty Valley www.twentyvalley.ca Taste the Season Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in November Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com Fabulicious Dining Promotion November 13 – 20 Select restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake www.signaturekitchensof niagaraonthelake.com

DECEMBER Candlelight Stroll December 5 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com 16th Annual Rotary House Tour December 5 – 6 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com

New Year’s Eve Niagara Falls December 31 Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com

Winter & Spring 2015 Niagara Icewine Festival 20th Anniversary January 9 – 25 Niagara www.niagarawinefestival.com Twenty Valley Winter WineFest January 10 – 11 Jordan Village www.twentyvalley.ca/ winterwinefest Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival January 17 – 18 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com Days of Wine and Chocolate Weekends in February Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com Sweet. Sparkling. Sensational! Experience February 2015 Twenty Valley www.twentyvalley.ca Winter Sunshine Owl Prowl and Luncheon February 21 Various locations across Niagara www.niagaranaturetours.ca Kettling Raptor Migration April 18 Beamer Memorial Conservation Area, Grimsby www.niagaranaturetours.ca Raptorfest April 25 Peach King Centre, Grimsby www.raptorfest.ca Chimney Swift Urban Safari April 25 St. Catharines and Fort Erie www.niagaranaturetours.ca

marketplace Shaw Festival IN HISTORIC NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE. GREAT THEATRE IN THE HEART OF NIAGARA WINE COUNTRY The 2014 Season features 10 plays in four theatres including the Tony Award-winning musical CABARET, the beloved comedy THE PHILADELPHIA STORY, and Bernard Shawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s THE PHILANDERER.

BeaverTails Pastry The canadian TradiTion since 1978. ONEIDA LANE and CLIFTON HILL (behind Burger King) Niagara Falls, Ontario 289-296-2056

BeaverTails.com

Tickets at 1-800-511-SHAW.

www.shawfest.com

Photo illustration for Cabaret by Emily Cooper.

rvation decks obse mit suite buffe sum t olving dining room r ev

5200 ROBINSON STREET, NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA L2G 2A3 ph 905.356.2651 | tf 1.800.814.9577

visitniagaracanada.com

marketplace DoubleTree Fallsview by Hilton

Margaritaville Café – Niagara Falls

Located just two short blocks from the brink of the Falls, 400 yards to Fallsview Casino. Timeless grand lodge architecture. 224 guestrooms/suites – most offering panoramic views. Regional cuisine, AVEDA day spa, indoor pools, Precor fitness & more. Four star resort. Call today for 1 & 2 night packages 1-800-730-8609.

* Home of the World Famous “Cheeseburger in Paradise” * Overlooking the Falls * Next to Fallsview Casino * Featuring Four Patios, Surf Shop & Tropical Theme * Kids Entertainment Daily * Bands Every Weekend

niagarafallsdoubletree.com

* 6300 Fallsview Blvd., Niagara Falls, ON (905) 354-1245 www.margaritaville.ca

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

CONNECTED TO FALLSVIEW CASINO

Overlooking both, the Canadian and American Falls, Hilton is Canada’s tallest hotel and Niagara’s premier Fallsview hotel. Located in the heart of the city’s entertainment and recreation district, Hilton provides guests with convenient indoor access to Fallsview Casino.

niagarafallshilton.com

1·888·370·0700

F A L L S V I E W

C A S I N O

R E S O R T

More Than a Casino! • ENTERTAINMENT – Over 250 shows every year

• GAMING – Over 3,000 slot and 100 table games • DINING – Over a dozen restaurants • HOTEL – 374 luxury rooms with a full-service spa and fitness centre

What are You waiting for?

6380 Fallsview Boulevard | www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com Must be 19 years of age or older to enter the casino.

visitniagaracanada.com

VE A S & CAN

Unforgettable! Conquer the class 5 rapids of the Niagara River in a Whirlpool Jet Boat and soar over the Niagara Falls in a Niagara Helicopter. Two trips you will never forget!

WHIRLPOOLJET.COM â&#x20AC;˘ 1.888.438.4444

61 Melville Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario â&#x20AC;˘ 3850 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario

only

locals know the best

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

• 1 Block to the Falls, Casino and Clifton Hill “Street of Fun” • Best Rates Guaranteed • 198 Spacious Guestrooms with 37” Flat Screen Televisions • In-Room Safe, Iron, Ironing Board, Coffee Maker & Hairdryer • Family Suites and Whirlpool Fireplace Suites Available • Pay Per View Movies • Packages and Sightseeing Tours • Kids Stay Free & Eat for $2.99 • Indoor/Outdoor Pool, Arcade, Fitness Room & Guest Laundry Facilities • Convenient stop-on site • Designated Pet Friendly rooms available • Free WIFI throughout entire property • Denny’s Restaurant - Open 24 hours • Pizza Hut, KFC Express and Baskin Robbins

1-800-565-4656 5905 Victoria Ave., Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3L8

nfhojo.com

Stay with uS!

Your perfect Niagara getaway begins here. A living postcArd Nestled on the southern shores of Lake Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake welcomes millions of visitors every year who come to enjoy its picturesque small-town charm and architectural beauty; live Shaw Festival and Music Niagara performances; award-winning wineries; year-round festivals; unique boutiques, galleries and museums; farm-to-fork culinary experiences; its heritage, historic sites and re-enactments; cycling paths, hiking trails and championshipcalibre links. And Niagara Falls is just 20 minutes away.

cozy lodgings Whatever your reason for visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake, you’ll need value-added accommodation. And that’s where we excel. The Niagara-on-the-Lake Bed and Breakfast Association represents more than 135 world-class properties ranging from historic, quaint and contemporary bed and breakfasts and country inns to cottage rentals. Your hosts are local residents who can help you discover all the enticing options Ontario’s Niagara Region has to offer. They’ll send you on your way with hearty, homemade breakfasts every morning and welcome you back to cozy guest rooms. Travelling with family members or friends? Book a fully equipped cottage, where all the comforts of home await you.

For wonderful hospitality and beautiful memories, book online at niagarabedandbreakfasts.ca or call 1-866-855-0123. visitniagaracanada.com

Circle shows a radius around Niagara, Ontario of 650 km or 400 miles.

niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.

niagara places Fort Erie

www.forteriecanada.com

Grimsby

www.town.grimsby.on.ca

Lincoln/Twenty Valley

Port Colborne

www.portcolborne.ca www.experienceportcolborne.com

St. Catharines

www.tourismstcatharines.ca

www.lincoln.ca www.twentyvalley.ca

Thorold

Niagara Falls

Wainfleet

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Welland

Pelham

West Lincoln

www.niagarafallstourism.com www.niagaraonthelake.com www.mypelham.com

www.thoroldtourism.ca www.wainfleet.ca www.welland.ca www.westlincolnchamber.com

Discover Niagaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 12 unique communities, each with distinctive sights, events and personalities. Contact our local tourism organizations for more information when planning your next Niagara getaway.

visitniagaracanada.com

Journey Behind the Falls

Niagara Parks is...

The Ultimate Falls Experience. Experience the incredible power and beauty of Niagara Falls at ontarioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Niagara Parks. Get as close as you can to the thundering water at Journey Behind the Falls and White Water Walk, then dine with a panoramic view at Elements on the Falls. Explore the ButterďŹ&#x201A;y Conservatory and the Botanical Gardens or play Whirlpool Golf course in the fabulous setting beside the Niagara Glen. History, nature, gardens and so much more at Niagara Parks.

SAVE 30%

ON 4 TOP ATTRACTIONS

NEW For 2014 - Includes Hornblower Niagara Cruises

Find out more and purchase Passes at niagaraparks.com