About Niagara
The Niagara Region is strategically situated between two lakes, Erie and Ontario, and between two large metropolitan cities, Toronto and Buffalo. With quick and relatively easy access to markets in Toronto as well as the USA through Buffalo, the Niagara Region has historically been a key part of the North American trade and transportation spheres. What has become more and more significant over time, is the recognition of Niagara as an agricultural wonder. The soil is perfect for several varieties of fruits and plants, and is now home to a thriving and world renowned wine industry. Together with the natural beauty of the area, and the wealth of greenspaces and parklands, Niagara is also home to one of the Wonders of the Earth, Niagara Falls. This combination of natural and man made features has vaulted Niagara into an international tourism destination. With a reputation for peaceful friendly citizens, a low crime rate, and mild weather, Niagara is a wonderful spot to live, love and laugh, whether raising children, enjoying retirement, or beginning a new endeavor. Niagara is home to many great attractions, here are a few that are must see if you are coming to the area.
Niagara Falls
An amazing sight whether you are coming during the hot summer months, the colorful fall months, the cold but sparkling winter months or in spring! During the Christmas season enjoy the beauty of the festival of lights which started in 1983 here in Niagara and every year has attracted more and more visitors from worldwide. With attractions like the Maid of the Mist, Bird Kingdom, Ripley’s Believe it or Not, The Sky Wheel, an Indoor Water Park, IMAX, 2 Casino and much more Niagara Falls has something for the whole family, so come and explore!
The Welland Canal
The canal is not as well-known as Niagara Falls but is definitely something worth seeing. Spend sometime in the Lock 3 museum and learn of the history of St. Catharines and of the canals. The observation deck allows you to watch the ships work their way through the canal, which is an incredible site. If you are the outdoor type, bring a picnic and sit on one of the many picnic tables, watch the kids play on the playground or take a stroll on the recreation trail. Also, located in this center is the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame & Museum. For more information go to: http://www.stcatharines.ca/en/experiencein/StCatharinesMuseum1.asp
Wine Country
Niagara Region is home to over 75 wineries, and each year there are 3 major wine events that happen in Niagara, The New Vintage Festival (June 18-26 2011), The Grape & Wine Festival (September 16-25) and The Ice Wine Festival (January 13-29 2012). For those of you wine lovers, enjoy discovering the many wineries in Niagara or book a tour and education yourself on great wines and food pairing.
Port Dalhousie
This charming harbour front village is located in St. Catharines and has been home to the Royal Henley Regatta for almost 100 years. Enjoy the beauty of Niagara while you peruse the Village, take in all the history that Port Dalhousie has to offer. Beautiful historic buildings house galleries fashion shops, restaurants and more. Take a 5 cent ride on the antique carousel, enjoy a live theatre performance, go fishing or just enjoy Niagara’s beauty while taking a walk on the pier.
Niagara Folk Arts Festival
If you are visiting Niagara during mid-May to early June you may want to stop by Montebello Park and enjoy the sights, sounds & flavors from around the world. Local Niagara groups display a host of multicultural items in the park that you can purchase or just enjoy looking at. Fun for the whole family!
Balls Falls Thanksgiving Festival Craft Show and Sale
Each Thanksgiving, the Balls Falls ConservationArea in Lincoln hosts a huge craft show. Come enjoy the wonderful flavours of local gourmet foods & wines, watch Niagara area entertainers or peruse the wonderful variety of arts & crafts, featuring the work of artisans from across North America. The fall colours explode around you, and the atmosphere is joyful and optimistic.
