Niagara Canada Travel Magazine 2015

TRAVE L

CANADA

mother knows best 3 moms share Niagara Falls trip tips

12 months

of wine country PURSUITS

take note

Can’t-miss concerts and music festivals

PLUS

Dozens of ideas for an unforgettable Niagara escape

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“How can we help?”

Wouldn’t it be nice to travel with a personal concierge? Someone who could point you to just the right restaurant for a romantic meal, suggest an activity to tire out your little ones or find the perfect experience to impress someone special?

Consider this issue of Niagara Canada Travel a personal concierge for your next Niagara getaway.

Whether you’re looking to please toddlers, grade schoolers, tweens or teens you’ll find three families’ worth of kid-approved Niagara Falls family fun starting on page 27. We’ve even enlisted some of Niagara’s youngest insiders to share their perspective on activities your family is guaranteed to love.

If your next Niagara escape is more of a grownup getaway, you’ll find dozens of options inside this issue for ideal escapes whether you’re a music lover, wine enthusiast, foodie, cyclist, or theater buff.

And that’s just the beginning. These pages are packed with all kinds of inspiration for your next visit to Niagara. Looking for additional ideas for your next trip? Connect with us on Facebook or Twitter and let us be your guide.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Niagara. We hope you will discover and explore all that Niagara has to offer.

Jody Larose Executive Director The Tourism Partnership of Niagara

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@visit_niagara

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JOURNEY BEHIND THE FALLS, NIAGARA FALLS

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contents features

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THREE TIMES THE FUN IN THE FALLS

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THE BABYMOONERS

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A PLAN FOR ALL SEASONS

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TAKE NOTE

Follow the lead of three moms who know how to please kids at every age and stage.

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Niagara Falls offers a perfect escape for one last soiree before the stork flies. Micah Toub

Discover 12 months of delicious and diverse wine country experiences.

Niagara’s music scene sizzles with one-of-a-kind festivals and events.

niagara discoveries 62

GREAT DRIVES VIEW FINDER

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Shift into gear and cruise to some of Niagara’s most stunning vantage points. Jim Kenzie

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GREAT TRAILS CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

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HISTORY AND HERITAGE GHOST STORIES

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ARTS AND CULTURE BACKSTAGE PASS

notable niagara 7

NEW & NOTICED IN NIAGARA

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FIVE-MINUTE NIAGARA GUIDE

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WHAT DO THE TOTS SAY?

Pedaling pals explore Niagara’s South Coast.

Goose bumps are guaranteed at these hallowed Niagara haunts.

Find out what all the buzz is about.

Taste your way through the pick of the crop.

Niagara’s pint-sized insiders are spilling the beans.

Go behind the scenes at the Shaw Festival.

niagara agenda

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MUST SEE & DO

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DINNER AND A SHOW

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SKIP THE GYM

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HOMEGROWN FINDS

Can’t-miss stops for your next Niagara visit.

Outstanding cuisine + live entertainment = date night done right.

These fresh takes on exercise will make your heart skip a beat.

Take home a piece of Niagara that’s been made right here.

in every issue

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GETTING HERE

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NIAGARA 365

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NIAGARA PLACES

Niagara is closer then you think.

There’s always something happening here.

Find your way to our local tourism regions.

TRAVE L

niagara contributors CANADA

Publication Director & Executive Director Jody Larose Published by The Tourism Partnership of Niagara 5881 Dunn Street Niagara Falls, ON Canada L2G 2N9 Design & Production Loud+Clear For general information 289-477-5344 info@niagarasrto.com Niagara Canada Travel © 2015. 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.

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, Henry of Pelham, HOCO Entertainment & Resorts, The Good Earth Food and Wine Co., Niagara Parks Commission, Twenty Valley Tourism, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Hornblower Niagara Cruises, Brian Yungblut, Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Winter Festival of Lights.

Yashy Murphy Yashy Murphy has explored over 35 countries and continues to do so with her young family. Yashy and her husband travel the world in search of good food, fine wine and cultural experiences with their two toddlers. Yashy is a Toronto-based travel writer who blogs at Baby & Life about maintaining the pre baby lifestyle post baby. You can find Yashy lusting after the next travel adventure and sharing culinary and travel pursuits on most social media channels.

Amanda Lee Amanda Lee is a writer whose work has appeared in Toronto Star, Cottage Life, Bunch Family, Toronto Standard, and Flight Centre blog. Originally from Australia, she inherited her wanderlust from her father who left the north of England for the opal mines of Coober Pedy, and hopes to pass her love of travel to her Canadian children, Conan and Pippa. Amanda has travelled with Conan and Pippa to Thailand, Mexico, Britain and Australia—and now Niagara Falls.

Lisa Goodmurphy Lisa Goodmurphy is a Canadian lawyer turned family travel writer who is on a mission to show her daughters the world – one trip at a time. Lisa shares her family’s travel adventures on the blog, Gone with the Family, which she founded in 2011 and contributes regularly to several other online publications. Lisa also serves on the executive of the Professional Travel Bloggers Association.

Jim Kenzie Jim Kenzie is Canada's foremost automotive journalist. He is Chief Auto Reviewer for The Toronto Star's Wheels section which is approaching 30 years as Canada's leading automotive publication.

He appears on "Kenzie's Korner" on TSN'S Motoring, Canada's most-watched and most-authoritative automotive television program, now in its 27th season. His work also appears in a variety of magazines, newspapers and web sites around the world.

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 was also a longtime relationship columnist for The Globe and Mail and his work has appeared in a variety of magazines including The Walrus, Canadian Family, Psychology Today and Report on Business. Micah lives with his wife and son in Toronto.

Goh Iromoto Goh's curiosity with stories of the human spirit led him to an early career in documentary photography and filmmaking. Everything he learned working in these genres continues to have a huge influence on his commercial work, where he is known for carefully executed cinematography and the authentic feel of documentary.

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.

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Spend time having fun on your vacation, not getting there.

With easy access from four international airports, and airport shuttle service offered through the region, getting to Niagara is a breeze.

AIRPORT

DISTANCE TO NIAGARA

TORONTO PEARSON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

125 km/78 miles

BUFFALO NIAGARA USA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

45 km/28 miles

JOHN C MUNRO HAMILTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

85 km/53 miles

NIAGARA FALLS USA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

15 km/9 miles

border crossings Travelers coming via land from the United States have four international bridge crossings in Niagara to choose from: • Rainbow Bridge Niagara Falls • Lewiston-Queenston Bridge Niagara Falls • Peace Bridge Fort Erie

Montreal

• Whirlpool Bridge (Nexus Passholders only) Niagara Falls

Kingston Toronto

Niagara Detroit Chicago Toledo

Boston Buffalo

Cleveland

Cincinnati

Pittsburgh

New York Philadelphia

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

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Albany

With a valid passport, and in certain cases, a travel visa, border crossing is a seamless process.

Additional details about travel documentation requirements can be found at the Canada Border Services Agency website: cbsa-asfc.gc.ca

NOTABLE NIAGARA

new & noticed IN NIAGARA

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1 A DECADE OF DIAMONDS For the 10th consecutive year, Fallsview Casino’s luxury 374-room hotel in Niagara Falls has been granted the coveted Four Diamond honour from CAA/AAA. Four Diamond awards were also presented to two fine-dining restaurants at Fallsview Casino, 21 Club and Ponte Vecchio. fallsviewcasinoresort.com

2 CHARGE IT Electric vehicle owner?

Enjoy complimentary vehicle charging when you stay at Niagara-onthe-Lake’s Harbour House Hotel, The Charles Hotel, Shaw Club Hotel and Spa and Colonel Butler Best Western or dine at HobNob Restaurant and Wine Bar, and Zees Grill. niagarasfinest.com

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TRIPADVISOR LOVE

NEW KID ON THE BLOCK

Thousands of tripadvisor members agree that Niagara is the place to be.

Both Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake were recognized within the Top 10 Canadian Destinations category in tripadvisor’s 2015 Travelers’ Choice Awards. tripadvisor.ca

This fall, Niagara will open the doors to the state-of-the-art FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre in downtown St. Catharines. Schedule a stop in the Garden City for local and international music, theatre, film, and dance just steps away from great dining. newpac.ca

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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.

▲

THE ULTIMATE WATER TRAP

Golf fans heading to Port Colborne’s Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival this August will want to take a swing at the Welland Canal Challenge.

Hit a golf ball 140 yards across the Canal to the sand green and you’ll score a 9-hole pass to Whiskey Run Golf Club. Make it all the way to the green for 18 complimentary holes. portcolborne.com

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FIDO-APPROVED WINERY FUN

PICTURE PERFECT

Vineland Estates Winery and Featherstone Estate are rolling out the red carpet for the dogs of wine lovers at their Muddy Paws Wine Festival on July 25 and 26. Enjoy new releases paired with delicious food and then take your four-legged friend for a walk on The Bruce Trail, which connects the two wineries. featherstonewinery.ca/events

It’s been over 300 years since the first image of Niagara Falls was printed, but depictions of this famous world wonder continue to amaze the masses. From print media to social media, Sharing an Icon: Niagara Falls Through the Centuries, explores captivating images of this beloved landmark. See for yourself at the Niagara Falls History Museum from May 14 through September 6. niagarafallsmuseums.ca

THE GREAT CANADIAN COUNTDOWN

▲

ET Canada is returning to Niagara Falls on New Year's Eve to ring in 2016 with live performances by best-selling artists and special guests. Musical alumni of this free party include Keith Urban, Nick Jonas, Nelly Furtado and Shawn Mendes. niagaraparks.com

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PELLER ESTATES WINERY, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

▲ PRETTY NIFF-TY

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▲ CROWN JEWELS Witness history on horseback at the Fort Erie Race Track on July 28 at the 80th running of the second jewel in the Canadian Triple Crown, the Prince of Wales Stakes. forterieracing.com

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The Niagara Integrated Film Festival (NIFF) returns from June 18 – 21 for a second year of fabulous film, food and wine. This year’s Film Feast program offers a unique three-hour bus excursion to Niagara wineries where guests will enjoy award-winning vintages and exquisitely prepared hors d’oeuvres while watching a selection of short films. Filmalicious offers guests the opportunity to settle into a winery and have Canada’s most talented chefs present a sumptuous three-course dinner, highlighted with stunning wine pairings followed by a feature film presentation in the vineyard. niagarafilmfest.com

SHOP TALK

If you haven’t visited The Outlet Collection at Niagara since it’s opening in 2014, it’s time to make the trip. New additions since then include Bass Pro, Kate Spade and Cole Haan and a fresh crop of openings is on the horizon including Gerry Webber and Levi’s. outletcollectionatniagara.com

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PADDLE TO THE BEAT OF YOUR OWN DRUM The best dragon boat crews from around the globe will leave it all on the water this summer in Welland. Four thousand paddlers from over 20 countries will compete in the Pan American Club Crew Dragon Boat Championships from August 14 through 16 and the International Dragon Boat Federation 12th World Dragon Boat Racing Championships from August 18 through 23. wdbrc2015.ca If you prefer paddling at a more leisurely pace, consider renting a canoe, kayak, paddleboat or stand-up paddleboard to explore the Welland Canal Recreational Waterway for yourself. canalcorp.ca

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NIAGARA AGENDA

homegrownfinds Bring a little piece of Niagara home from your next getaway with a made-right-here treasure.

dillon’s distillery Dillon’s vodka and gin are produced using local grapes and white rye, but their Pear Eau-de-Vie is a perfect way to take home the quintessentially Niagara flavour of a freshly picked pear.

4833 Tufford Road, Beamsville dillons.ca

rossi glass Each piece of Rossi Glass’ mouth-blown, handcrafted glass is beautifully unique.

Visit their factory and showroom for an amazing selection of wall platters, table lamps, chandeliers and more.

4199 River Road, Niagara Falls rossiglass.com

shannon passero

lakeside pottery The beautiful stoneware pottery that Ron and Barb Zimmermann create in their garden studio can be found in homes and offices across the globe. A fruit plate is a perfect way to showcase the fresh Niagara produce you bring home from your trip.

755 Lakeshore Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake lakesidepotteryniagara.com

lousje & bean This mother-daughter team makes and sells innovative and youthful pieces for women of all ages from their James Street studio.

39 James Street, St. Catharines lousjeandbean.ca

In addition to her lines of Neon Buddha and Pure Handknit clothing, designer and Niagara native Shannon Passero’s shop and design studio also carries a unique offering of select brands, many of which are exclusive to the area.

12 Albert St. West, Thorold shannonpassero.com

nigh’s sweet shop The Nigh family began making Easter chocolates for friends and family in 1958. Today, the family tradition continues from their factory and shop where you’ll find a delicious selection of bars, fudge, chocolates, truffles and ready-to-be-devoured gifts.

3757 Netherby Road Stevensville nighs.ca

to market, to market.

Looking to really stock up on some of Niagara’s best homemade wares?

Time your visit with one of the three Handmade Markets held each year. This travelling boutique experience, hosted at Niagara wineries, promotes products created by local artisans, including jewellery, pottery, glass, hand-sewn bags, preserves, natural bath and body products, original art, designer clothing, home decor, leather, hand-bound books and more. handmademarket.ca

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NIAGARA AGENDA

niagara falls THE EATS: AG Inspired Cuisine’s threecourse Field to Fork menu changes daily to highlight the freshest ingredients Niagara has to offer. Make a toast to spending time together with the Ultimate Icewine Martini, which features Icewine, vanilla vodka, Niagara white grape and a maple sugar rim. agcuisine.com

THE SEATS: Niagara Fallsview Casino’s state-of-the-art Avalon Ballroom Theatre attracts top-notch talent like Ringo Starr, Jay Leno, Kelly Clarkson, Keith Urban, Sylvester Stallone, Diana Ross and Il Divo. See for yourself why this amazing venue has earned a reputation as one of Canada's premiere live entertainment destinations. fallsviewcasinoresort.com

st. catharines

niagara's south coast

THE EATS: Wellington Court has been delighting diners and restaurant critics for almost three decades. Chef Eric Peacock’s delicious paté, served with cranberry crostini and house-made pear compote, has garnered raving fans and is a perfect plate to share with someone special. wellington-court.com

THE SEATS: Settle into St. Catharines’ brand-new FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre for a fantastic night of music with The Niagara Symphony Orchestra. The NSO’s 2015/16 Pop Series is sure to get toes tapping with salutes to The Beatles, the Gershwins, and Oscar-winning film scores. thenso.ca

niagaraon-the-lake THE EATS: Treadwell Farm To Table Cuisine, a trailblazer in Niagara’s local food movement, promises guests a “serious exploration of Niagara cuisine.”

Savour a selection of house-made and local charcuterie and sip from the restaurant’s extensive selection of Niagara wines as you watch the world go by from prime patio seating. treadwellcuisine.com

THE SEATS: The Shaw Festival is one of North America’s finest cultural attractions.

Its calendar brims with an eclectic array of quirky comedies, bold dramas and sweeping classics representing the best of theatre. Join the legions of passionate Shaw devotees who return to Niagara-on-theLake year after year. Turn to page 54 for the 2015 season. shawfest.com

THE EATS: Carve into a perfectly aged, AAA, centre cut steak as you watch the ships make their way along the Welland Canal from the porch of Port Colborne’s @27 Steakhouse.

THE SEATS: After dinner, catch one of the summer performances at Port Colborne’s Showboat Festival Theatre.

The 2015 playbill features Corpse!, a fun whodunit comedy, Stag and Doe, another comedy about the perils of pre-nuptial shenanigans, One Moment, a comedy musical and Same Time Next Year, one of the most popular romantic comedies of the century. showboattheatre.ca

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DISCOVER DATE NIGHT DONE RIGHT WITH AN EVENING OF PHENOMENAL CUISINE FOLLOWED

BY AN OUTSTANDING LIVE PERFORMANCE. visitniagaracanada.com

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NIAGARA AGENDA

e h t p i k S

Gym

YOGA AT SOUTHBROOK VINEYARD

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Love to travel but hate to miss your daily workout?

Forget exercise machines and fitness classes. upgrade to the real deal in Niagara.

Pick a pedal

Cruising Niagara by bike

is a fantastic way to take in all the region has to offer. Shift gears pedaling through wine country, cruising beside the Welland Canal or following winding Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, or Niagara River shorelines. Vinemount Velo leads cyclists to five wineries along the Niagara Escarpment’s Vinemount Ridge for a delicious lunch course at each. Zoom Leisure’s afternoon Parkway Tour takes cyclists along the historic Niagara Parkway from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake.

20valley.ca; zoomleisure.com

Ride the river

Experience Niagara's waters by stand-up

paddleboard. Paddle Niagara’s packages include a one-hour lesson and all the equipment you’ll need to get out and enjoy this popular new sport. paddleniagara.com

RUN WILD

Caution: timing your Niagara visit to coincide with one of the

region’s many road races has been known to be habit forming. Some serious fan favourites include:

May The Chocolate Race in St. Catharines, features a variety of decadent on-course and post-race chocolate treats. thechocolaterace.com

JUNE The Niagara Falls Women’s Half Marathon, boasts one of the best swag bags in Canada and

firefighters placing medals around the finishers’ necks!

The Color Run in Niagara Falls is a five-kilometer, un-timed race where runners are doused from head to toe in different colors at each kilometer.

JULY

nfwhm.com ; ca.thecolorrun.com/ niagara-falls

Get your fall miles in at the Run for the Grapes Half Marathon / 5k in St. Catharines and

The Beamsville Bench 5k is a scenic and challenging race that wraps up with wine tasting, a barbecue and music. niagararunningseries. com/races/bench

SEPTEMBER

Run or Dye Niagara Falls. niagararunning series.com; ca.runordye.com

OCTOBER The Niagara Falls International Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier and one of the few marathons in the world to start in one country and finish in another.

Unleash that downward dog Take your yoga practice to a whole new level with a class set amongst the vines of Niagara’s verdant vineyards.

The Marriott Fallsview offers a Vineyard Yoga retreat in the JacksonTriggs Amphitheatre and Southbrook Vineyards’ Vino and Vinyasa allows guests to sip Southbrook wines paired with Vinyasa poses. niagarafallsmarriott.com/events/vineyard-yogajackson-triggs; southbrook.com

niagarafallsmarathon.com

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the

s r e n o o m y bab

BY MICAH TOUB

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ON LEGENDS ARA G IA N E H T

Looking for one last romantic escape before baby’s arrival?

Niagara Falls offers the perfect getaway and a few lessons in parenting too.

NIAGAR A HORN B LO W E ILLUMIN R ATION C RUISE

CLIFTON HILL

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hit the greens... and the spa.

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LEGENDS ON THE NIAGARA, NIAGARA PARKS, NIAGARA FALLS

Teeing off

our new phase of life

While my wife started off our weekend of relaxation at the spa, I headed to Legends on the Niagara golf course. My dad and I used to play together from the time I was thirteen until I left home for university. The game was solid bonding time and I wanted to pick it up again now that I was going to be a father to my own son.

“It’s been about ten years,” I told Norm Moote, the instructor at the historic course’s golf academy. In truth, it had been more like twenty - and it showed.

“It’s best if you don’t try to hit the ball,” Norm suggested - to my surprise - after I’d hooked and sliced half a dozen drives. “Instead, just think of the ball as being placed in the way of your momentum.”

After adjusting my backswing to limit my movements to only what was necessary, he told me to close my eyes. I did so reluctantly, but then - thwack! I made my best distance of the day by far.

Norm’s counter-intuitive wisdom continued on the green, where he told me of a NASA scientist who calculated that an amateur golfer like myself had a fairly high chance of sinking the ball if it sat within eight feet of the hole. “You’re not yet a pro,” he reminded me, winking. “So you’re best off to just lower your margin of error.” It was advice, I thought to myself, which perhaps could apply equally as well to parenting a newborn.

ABOVE: GOLF INSTRUCTOR, LEGENDS ON THE NIAGARA

Meanwhile, back at the Falls, Bryony had scored a great massage at the Christienne Spa on the 14th floor of the Sheraton Hotel.

“I ate a crisp apple and read about the health benefits of almonds with the Falls humming in the background,” she said of her preappointment wait. The masseuse arranged pillows around the baby bump so that she could lie on her stomach. “It was like lying on top of a doughnut,”she said. “And a welcome break after sleeping on my side for eight months!”

She asked me what I’d learned on the links.

“It’s all about putting good intentions into motion,” I said. “And then opening your eyes to see what happens.”

ABOVE: CHRISTIENNE SPA, NIAGARA FALLS

niagaraparksgolf.com/legends-on-the-niagara christiennefallsviewspa.com

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a mother of

a cruise

We were not the only babymooners in Niagara Falls — we shared knowing smiles with many expecting couples over the course of the weekend. In fact, walking aboard Hornblower Niagara Cruises’ Falls Illumination Cruise, we found ourselves shuffling next to a pregnant midwife and her husband. As we prepared to view the Falls up close and painted in a rainbow of spotlights, she shared a couple of equally colourful stories about births she’d witnessed, and the amazing strength of the women she’d assisted.

The Hornblower Falls Illumination Cruise, which was a brand new addition to cruise offerings in ABOVE: WINDOWS BY JAMIE KENNEDY, NIAGARA FALLS

dining with

Niagara in 2014, can only be described as the Falls turned into a lively disco. As the cascading water

wonders of the world

turned from blue to pink to yellow, passengers danced to pop tunes in their red plastic ponchos.

Our dinner at the Windows by Jamie Kennedy restaurant began with

And, as a nod to the area’s other main attraction—

a plate of scallops hand picked by Nova Scotian divers. We watched

some of the world’s best wineries - a Peller Estates

the sunset light against the Falls as we enjoyed them, and also had

Riesling could be purchased inside to enjoy on the

a great bird’s eye view of the spectacular Oakes Garden Theatre below.

cruise deck. Bryony and I held each other tight as

We’d strolled through it earlier to build up our appetite. “Can you

the wind and spray from the Falls wet our faces,

see the Falls behind the bump?” Bryony had asked when I snapped

and I thought to myself that this, our baby’s first

a picture. Now high up, we watched children running the entire expanse

experience on water, was a good omen for the

of the garden’s open space and it was a bit like looking into our future.

other adventures that lay ahead for him.

Another hopeful glimpse ahead came from the couple sitting at the

After we disembarked and waved goodbye to our

table next to us. Dressed to the nines, they looked like two newlyweds on a honeymoon. But after they asked when we were due, we learned about the kids they’d left with the grandparents for a weekend away on their own.

new friends, we wandered across the street and up Clifton Hill promenade. Video games and haunted houses were definitely going to be a part of our future, but while we still could, we decided to hit

Over a polenta appetizer that featured local maple syrup followed

the Niagara Fallsview Casino. I won the first hand I

by our Cumbrae Farms beef tenderloin mains, we considered the

played at the blackjack table, then rubbed Bryony’s

massive change that was about to occur in our lives. It could be

belly for good luck before the second. “Stay,”

compared to the river out the window, I mused - water flowing over the

Bryony said when I was dealt a 15. It was a tough

Earth is just a mundane thing until there’s a great transformation

call, but I followed her advice. I lost.

in the shape of the land, like an escarpment. “Our son’s going to

But, as we exited to U2’s “Sweetest Thing” playing

be one of the wonders of our world,” Bryony agreed.

over the speakers, I remarked to her that I won’t

After sharing a deliciously decadent butter tart with raisins, pecans and

ever mind her telling me to “stay,” a comment that

ice cream, we fell into a silence. I asked Bryony how she was doing. “I’m

I knew had great odds to return a smile sweeter

totally mellow,” she said, which I thought was exactly what you want

than any riches.

your pregnant wife to say a month before the big day.

windowsbyjamiekennedy.com

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niagaracruises.com fallsviewcasinoresort.com

HORNBLOWER NIAGARA CRUISES, NIAGARA FALLS

our baby's first experience on “the water was a good omen for other adventures that lay ahead.” visitniagaracanada.com

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ARKS ENS ARA P NIAG ICAL GARD N BOTA

OAKES GA

horsepower for our

RDEN THEA TRE

ABOVE CLOCKWISE: NIAGARA PARKS BOTANICAL GARDENS, HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDE, (PHOTOGRAPHED BY BUBBA HARMON). NIAGARA FALLS (PHOTOGRAPHED BY F8IMAGES), OAKES GARDEN THEATRE, NIAGARA FALLS

upcoming stunt

While I doubt that pregnant women were the inspiration for the horse

As we leaned over the crest where the water drops

and carriage rides offered through the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens,

almost sixty metres, I recalled tightrope walker Nik

it’s certainly a great target market. Sitting comfortably with weary

Wallenda’s strut across the Falls in 2012. “Life is

feet rested, Bryony and I were toured by a gorgeous half-Clydesdale

on the wire, everything else is just waiting,” I said,

named Jet past rhododendrons, azaleas, North America’s largest herb

repeating a quote I remembered from Wallenda’s

garden, and the stately residence that houses the School of Horticulture

grandfather. And with that, refreshed by two

students who are largely responsible for caretaking the Gardens’ 99

beautiful and intimate days in Niagara Falls, we

acres. The garden across from that building, the tour guide told us,

headed back to our car and back home to wait

was modeled after those on the grounds of Louis XIV’s Versailles. The

for our own upcoming daredevil act — parenting.

pregnant partner’s review of the hour-long wander? “It’s so romantic!”

But perhaps the greatest attraction for an expecting mother is the very one that made this place a destination in the first place—the Falls themselves. “The misty coolness is perfect for pregnancy,” Bryony said as we strolled along the walkway that overlooks the Niagara River.

Indeed, she declared that summertime in the third trimester would be ten times nicer if the spray from the Horseshoe Falls was always softly alighting on her skin.

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TAKE NOTE GET YOUR GROOVE ON AT NIAGARA’S AMAZING MUSIC FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

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Trius Jazz at the Winery When: July Where: Niagara-on-the-Lake Trius Winery has been bringing premier Canadian talent to Niagara Wine Country for a quarter of a century. A range of ticket options allows jazz lovers to choose from a variety of experiences, from setting up a lawn chair in the vineyard to a

Niagara Jazz Festival When: July

backstage pass option that includes

Where: Niagara-on-the-Lake

the best seats in the house, visits

This three-day festival showcases the finest Canadian and internationally

from the musicians, a sparkling wine

renowned jazz musicians with a multi-venue series of live jazz concerts,

reception and a four-course meal.

educational initiatives and free events.

triuswines.com

niagarajazzfestival.com

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Canal Bank Shuffle When: October Where: Thorold "The Canal Bank Shuffle is one of the finest small town Blues & Music Festivals that I have had the pleasure of playing and attending. Everybody walks around looking for that special evening or that artist that they have heard so much about! It is a wonderful sight to see how excited people get, when they come to The Canal Bank Shuffle. World Class Music with World Class Artists all within walking distance."

Johnny Max, Canadian Blues musician canalbankshuffle.com

CLOCKWISE: KRISTA BLONDIN, JOHNNY MAX AND JOE-LOUIS WALKER

Trius Blues at the Winery When: August Where: Niagara-on-the-Lake Fine wines, great local cuisine and spectacular music - this is reds, whites and blues at their best. Last year’s performers included Carlos del Junco, Chris Antonik, The MacKenzie Blues Band and the Ben Racine Band.

triuswines.com

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Niagara Wine Festival When: September Where: St. Catharines Niagara wines pair beautifully with music in a series of free concerts offered in historic Montebello Park.

niagarawinefestival.com

Mumford and Sons When: June 15, 2015 Where: The Commons on Butler’s Barracks National Historic Site, Niagara-on-the-Lake While the initial 25,000 tickets for this concert sold in less than two hours, there’s talk that additional tickets may be released, so stay tuned.

mumfordandsons.com/tour

Canal Days When: July 31-August 3, 2015 Where: Port Colborne From Elvis impersonators to

Coca Cola Concert Series When: May through October

Canadian icons like Platinum

Where: Niagara Falls

Blonde and Honeymoon Suite,

Enjoy free classic rock concerts next

this marine community’s annual summer celebration features a healthy dose of rock and roll at a number of free all-ages concerts.

portcolborne.ca

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to the thundering Falls on Sunday nights in Queen Victoria Park. Be sure to stay afterward to catch the spectacular fireworks show.

niagaraparks.com

STRUTT When: November Where: St. Catharines Canada’s largest wearable art show is always set to a soundtrack of amazing live music. Past performers have included The Sadies and Canadian electro hip-hop band, Radio Radio.

struttwearableartshow.ca LEFT IMAGE: THE SADIES, (PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRIAN YUNGBLUT)

SCENE Music Festival When: June Where: St. Catharines SCENE Music Festival is Canada Day weekend done right.

Downtown St. Catharines becomes party central with big-name bands and eager up-and-comers. Last year’s performers included Matthew Good, Arkells, Marianas Trench and The Sheepdogs.

scenemusicfestival.com

Jackson-Triggs Amphitheatre Summer Concert Series When: June through September Where: Niagara-on-the-Lake Enjoy award-winning wines, gourmet cuisine, and brilliant Canadian talent under the stars in the vineyard at this popular music series. This year’s performers include Sam Roberts Band, Chantal Kreviazuk, Whitehorse, Michael Kaeshammer, the Jim Cuddy Band, Jann Arden, Stars, Spirit of the West, Arkells and Steven Page.

jacksontriggswinery.com/events

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Music Niagara When: July through August Where: Niagara-on-the-Lake From jazz under the stars to Vivaldi in the vineyards, Music Niagara

LEFT IMAGE: THE JOHN SHERWOOD TRIO PART OF THE JAZZ ON THE PATIO SERIES, MUSIC NIAGARA’S SUMMER FESTIVAL, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE’S EPICUREAN BISTRO

showcases amazing music in stunning settings in a series of concerts between May and August.

musicniagara.org

Peller Estates Wine Country Fare When: August Where: Niagara-on-the-Lake Dust off your Stetson for some boot-stomping country fun in the Peller Estates vineyard including great country music, amazing farm-to-table fare, mechanical bull rides and a Wild West shooting gallery.

peller.com

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123 Toddlers

Grade-Schoolers

Teens

3 TIMES THE FUN IN THE FALLS Three families prove that Niagara Falls offers up kid-approved family fun for every age and stage.

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WATERPARK, NIAGARA FALLS

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1 TODDLERS ON THE PROWL Written by Yashy Murphy

Toronto-based travel writer Yashy Murphy, travels the world with her husband and two toddlers in search of good food, fine wine and cultural experiences. Her three-year old has been to eight countries and over 28 cities and recently added Niagara Falls to that list.

visitniagaracanada.com

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NIAGARA HELICOPTER, NIAGARA FALLS

Niagara Falls by Air Soaring high above Niagara Falls in a helicopter is thrilling whether you’re a kid or a parent. Niagara Helicopters offers a family friendly experience where kids under three ride for free with accompanying parents. Headsets are provided for kids to protect sensitive ears from the noise of propellers until you board the six passenger helicopter. While our youngest cried during load in, we were truly amazed that

he stopped the very moment we took off. Both kids were enthralled (and silenced) by the amazing view of Niagara Falls as we followed the Niagara River from the Whirlpool up to the Rainbow Bridge. Loading, flying and unloading takes about twelve minutes, so things do move quickly which is great when you have little ones along. A unique experience and perspective, Niagara Helicopters offered us the chance to get an intimate view of the Niagara Falls region and created memories for years to come.

niagarahelicopters.com

Mind-bending Magic The Greg Frewin Theatre, located in the heart of Niagara Falls, features International Grand Champion of Magic, Greg Frewin and his world famous illusions. Most shows take place over two sets of forty-five minutes with the option for parents to sneak out easily for breaks in the foyer, which houses a bar and confectionary stand. Matinee shows may work best for those with babies and toddlers. Kids three and under are free as they sit on the laps of accompanying adults. Greg makes everything from a duck to a tiger disappear and then re-appear, and our toddler was absolutely mesmerized by the entire disappearing act. The appearance of the tiger even inspired an excited ‘wow!' If she were a bit older she may have volunteered to help Greg on stage! The Greg Frewin Show is a family-friendly experience that will captivate the smallest of the lot.

gregfrewintheatre.com

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

Cartwheels in the Sky Clifton Hill is home to many attractions and offers everything from golfing to kid-friendly museums. The SkyWheel provides a fun ride for ferris wheel loving toddlers, who will enjoy looking down at the Dinosaur Adventure Golf miniature golf course below while parents enjoy the perspective of the Falls from above. More often than not, families get a gondola to themselves and there’s secured stroller parking at the foot of the attraction. This ride is under fifteen minutes and is a great place to watch the fireworks from during peak season, as it offers little ones a comfortable seat with a full view of the lights that’s away from the crowds. cliftonhill.com

NIAGARA SKYWHEEL, NIAGARA FALLS

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Noshing Niagara style Whether you’re looking for a quick refreshment or a relaxing meal, there’s no need to sacrifice dining options or cocktails just because of small bellies.

Niagara Falls has many dining options available for those accompanied by toddlers and babies. Antica Pizzeria not only has fresh wood-fired pizzas and traditional Italian fare but also offers plastic cups complete with lids and straws, change tables and high chairs for the little ones to enjoy a speedy and delicious experience.

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If it’s a quick drink in a relaxing environment that you’re after, head over to the Rainforest Café and pop by the bar area. We enjoyed our adult jungle juice as the wee ones took in the sights and sounds of the jungle, including stampeding elephants, rattling snakes and singing macaws.

anticapizzeria.ca niagarafallsrainforestcafe.com

RAINFOREST CAFÉ, NIAGARA FALLS

Running Wild Sometimes you just need a break for some free play. That’s when the many parks scattered throughout the city will be a welcome sight. With gorgeous flowers in bloom in the spring and summer months, the gardens and parks provide the perfect place for toddlers to stretch their arms, pick up rocks and run wild.

The walkway by the Falls is also great for free play, so don’t be surprised if toddlers and infants aren’t as awe struck as the adults by the famous Falls. As you stroll along the escarpment taking in the magnificent wonder of the world, your little ones may have other sights in mind. Our two were more impressed by the small water fountain by the foot of the Falls where they blew bubbles and tossed in coins.

QUEENSTON HEIGHTS, QUEENSTON

The Final Verdict The honeymoon capital of the world is not only kid-friendly but also toddler approved.

Niagara Falls provides the perfect backdrop for families with toddlers and babies to explore and unwind. While the Falls may be the main attraction for many, little ones will have their senses tickled by many of the additional experiences and attractions. Our young ones loved exploring the thrilling rides and shows and were dazzled by the city’s bright lights.

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HORNBLOWER NIAGARA CRUISES, NIAGARA FALLS

2 GRADESCHOOLERS GONE WILD Written by Amanda Lee Originally from Australia, Amanda Lee is doing her best to pass her love of travel to her Canadian children, nine-year-old Conan and seven-year-old Pippa. The threesome has travelled to Thailand, Mexico, Britain and Australia and now, Niagara Falls.

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Exhilarating Adventure Our Niagara Falls adventure begins with seeing the beauty of the Niagara River from above with a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. “There will be a small bump, so hold on,” the operator warns us. Suspended above the Great Gorge, Conan and Pippa grip the rails of the vintage cable car as we

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slowly traverse the Niagara River. Below us surges 170 million litres of water, creating a mesmerizing whirlpool. As the cable car only accommodates 35 people, it’s easy to feel it’s just you—and the power of nature.

niagaraparks.com/niagara-falls-attractions/whirlpool-aero-car WHIRLPOOL AERO CAR, NIAGARA FALLS

BIRD KINGDOM, NIAGARA FALLS

Feathered Friends The next day our first stop is Bird Kingdom. Housed in the original Spirella Corset Factory built in 1907, all the birds have been rescued or acquired from owners who can no longer care for them. In the Explorer's Base Camp area, Conan gets up close to a parrot while Pippa tries to entice a shy cockatoo into talking. The small aviary is a hive of activity; we’re fascinated by the industrious birds collecting twigs to make their nest. In Bird Kingdom’s free-flying indoor aviary, visitors can feed nectar to the resident Lorikeets. Conan’s grin is huge as two birds perch on his head.

birdkingdom.ca

Tee Time The Clifton Hill Fun Pass provides access to five different attractions, including mini-golf. We decide on a sporting round of golf in the indoor glow-inthe-dark Wizards’ Golf. We putt our fluorescent golf balls amongst trolls, fairies, dragons and wizards and Conan manages to beat me out by one point.

cliftonhill.com

CAPTION:

The Clean Plate Club My children vote to dine at The Keg. While I enjoy a glass of local Cave Spring Pinot Noir with a grilled top sirloin, Conan and Pippa are treated like a young prince and princess as they settle into a large booth and tuck into their mini burgers.

We unanimously decide to finish with a round of mini-fudge brownies with ice cream and caramel.

fallsviewrestaurant.com visitniagaracanada.com

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Old-School Entertainment While walking around the Clifton Hill area we discover All Ways Antique Photography. The studio has a photo booth and props where you can ham it up.

Scrambling to change up mustaches, kissable lips, hats and feather boas before the flash pops, we pose for photos.

At $5 for two sets of four photos, it’s a memorable—and affordable—keepsake of our trip to the Falls.

allwaysphoto.com Part of the fun of vacation is indulging in treats. At BeaverTails on Clifton Hill, Conan opts for the classic cinnamon sugar BeaverTail with lemon. As my kids are reluctant to share, I discover you’re never too old for a candy apple.

beavertailsinc.com

Wax On At the Movieland Wax Museum of the Stars, my kids instantly recognize Katy Perry and Harry Potter and stop to pose for a photo with wax models of the Obamas.

Before exiting, we muster up the courage to brave the hair-raising “House of Horrors;” though not without a few whimpers as Pippa and I cling on to each other to navigate the dark, mirrored maze. cliftonhill.com/attractions/ movieland-waxmuseum-stars

Make A Splash Ensuring any excess energy the kids might still have is burned off, we round out our trip to the Falls at the Waves Indoor Waterpark. Pippa and I race each other down the two body slides and squeal on the exhilarating tube ride.

We bobble in the wave pool like ducks in a pond. The waterpark also has a Jacuzzi for adults and offers free activities and organized games.

americananiagara.com/niagara-fallsindoor-waterpark

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WAVES INDOOR WATERPARK, NIAGARA FALLS

Not Your Average Bedtime Story Since we’re on holiday and my kids are notorious night owls, we’ve booked a nighttime Falls Illumination Cruise with Hornblower Niagara Cruises. Dressed in our rain protectors on the top deck of the catamaran, we watch the Falls change from blue to purple to pink.

“The pink looks like strawberry ice cream!” says Pippa.

Stifling yawns, we finally call it a night.

niagaracruises.com

NIAGARA FALLS SKYLINE

The Final Verdict A family trip to Niagara Falls isn’t exactly a tough sell to kids between the ages of five and ten. The biggest challenge isn’t what to do – but how to keep up as you pack in the many attractions available on Clifton Hill, waterparks, and of course, getting up close to the Falls itself.

“This was too much fun,” says Conan.

“When can we come back?” asks Pippa, as we call time on our Niagara Falls adventure and pledge to return. visitniagaracanada.com

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3 THE TWEEN & TEEN SCENE

Written by Lisa Goodmurphy Lisa Goodmurphy is a Canadian lawyer turned family travel writer who is on a mission to show her tween and teen daughters the world, including Niagara Falls – one trip at a time.

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FALLSVIEW INDOOR WATERPARK, NIAGARA FALLS

Making Waves A good waterpark is a surefire hit with kids of any age and the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is one of the best. A huge tidal wave pool and 16 waterslides rising up to six stories high provide plenty of thrills, even for families with big kids. My tween couldn’t get enough of the tube rides, especially the twists and turns of the Canadian Plunge Bowl. Even though the Beach House aqua play area was designed for younger kids, it features a 1,000 gallon tipping bucket that she found

irresistible as well. At Fallsview, grown-ups have permission to join in the fun and watching parents run, laugh and play together with their kids was a highlight for me.

fallsviewwaterpark.com

Break for the BIG Screen It's impossible to go wrong taking teens and tweens to the Niagara IMAX Theatre. The six-story-high screen, the digital surround sound and the captivating story of Niagara: Miracles, Myths and Magic are all crowdpleasers. The film transports viewers through time covering the ancient myths and legends of Niagara Falls, the first European exploration of the area, and modern-day tales of daring feats and miraculous rescues.

Intrigued by the movie’s account of Annie Taylor who, along with her cat, was the first person to survive a trip over the Falls, we toured the adjoining Niagara Daredevil Exhibit to see the actual barrels and learn more about the daredevils themselves. Although my daughter was fascinated by the movie and exhibits, she was convinced that taking on the Falls in a barrel was the last thing she would ever want to do.

imaxniagara.com

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

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The Falls Up Close Even the most jaded of teenagers can't help but be impressed by the power of nature on display at the Horseshoe Falls, so the best bet is to purchase a Niagara Falls Adventure Pass and head directly there to experience the best attractions up close.

This was our first visit to Journey Behind the Falls and we loved the unique perspective of descending 45 metres and exploring the tunnels built behind the Falls. It's an incredible feeling to stand at the two portals realizing that you are actually behind the Falls looking out as the water rushes over the edge at speeds of up to 65 km/hr. My daughter recommends heading outside to the two-level observation deck at the foot of the Falls to stand in the blowing mist with the Horseshoe Falls as the backdrop – you won’t find a better spot to take a selfie!

While at the Table Rock Welcome Centre, be sure to check out Niagara’s Fury – a 4D multi-sensory experience. We screamed louder here than we did on the actual cruise to the basin of the Falls and I was never so thankful to be wearing a plastic poncho. Anyone with a sweet tooth must also shop at Pop & Lolly’s – a unique candy store which, according to my tween, has the “best fudge in the world.”

niagaraparks.com

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JOURNEY BEHIND THE FALLS, NIAGARA FALLS

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OH CANADA EH! DINNER THEATRE, NIAGARA FALLS

Flag-Waving Fun Planning evening activities is a priority with teens and tweens but it can be downright difficult to find something appropriate that everyone will enjoy. In Niagara Falls, the Oh Canada Eh! Dinner Show is the answer. This upbeat show, which takes place in a rustic log cabin theatre, is a light-hearted celebration of Canadian culture that includes such memorable characters as a singing Mountie, a FrenchCanadian fur trapper, Klondike Kitty and our personal favourite, Anne of Green Gables. More than 60 familiar

songs with a Canadian connection are performed by the talented cast and we couldn’t help but sing along. During breaks in the on-stage action, the cast doubles as waiters serving a five-course all-Canadian meal consisting of delectable items like French Canadian pea soup, Atlantic haddock, PEI potatoes, Alberta roast beef and maple chocolate cake. This high energy production was the highlight of our trip and we can’t wait to see it again!

ohcanadaeh.com

Hypercharged History The Niagara Falls History Museum showcases the rich history of the city with audio-visual and hands-on activities that engage all ages. It's also compact enough to experience in under 2 hours.

The War of 1812 exhibit provides meaningful insight into the war which will be of particular interest to older kids studying history. My daughter was pleased to see a bonnet on display that had belonged to Canadian heroine Laura Secord and she enjoyed trying on the replica uniforms from the War of 1812 as well. One of the pivotal events, the Battle of Lundy's Lane, happened just up the street from where the museum is located and that site can be visited as well.

Interactive exhibits in the Community Gallery also do a great job of immersing kids in many aspects of the history of Niagara Falls. Our favourite was the daredevil exhibit where my tween attempted to walk a low-level tightrope across a virtual Falls over and over again only to discover that it’s much more difficult than it looks!

niagarafallsmuseums.ca

The Final Verdict Parents of teens and tweens know all too well that travelling with this age group can be fraught with challenges - not the least of which is convincing them to come along in the first place. Fortunately, Niagara Falls has attractions that are can’t miss, no matter the age of the kids or how difficult they are to please. visitniagaracanada.com

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NOTABLE NIAGARA

WHAT DO THE TOTS SAY?

Niagara’s next generation of insiders share their favourite finds for family fun.

“I like to ride my bike along the river.’’

Adam, 4, spins his wheels on the Niagara River Recreation Trail. niagaraparks.com

“Dinosaur Mini Golf and The Great Canadian Midway are the best!’’

“I want to go back to the merry-go-round by the beach in Port Dalhousie!’’

Rhys, 10 and Even, 13, head to Niagara Falls’ Clifton Hill every chance they get. cliftonhill.com

Morgan, 3, loves the Lakeside Park Carousel. tourismstcatharines.ca/things-to-do/ port-dalhousie

“The horseback ride we went on was amazing. “We love seeing Santa at the end of the parade!’’

My horse was named Spencer, 2 and Morgan, 7, look forward Sunny.’’

Campbell, 8, loves to saddle up for a trail ride with Horseplay Niagara. horseplayniagara.com

to their annual Santa Claus sighting at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Santa Claus Parade. niagaraonthelake.com

“Feeding the giraffes is so cool. It feels like they’re going to eat your whole hand!’’

“I love going to Niagara Falls and seeing all the super heroes!’’

Michael, 5, is a raving fan of Comic Con Niagara Falls, held each June at the Cole, 6, fuels his wild side at Safari Niagara.

Scotiabank Convention Centre. safariniagara.com niagarafallscomiccon.com

“Chase seagulls in Port Dalhousie.’’

Jack, 7, likes to run off a little steam with a killer view of Lake Ontario. tourismstcatharines.ca/things-to-do/ port-dalhousie

“I like to see the animals at Happy Rolph’s. The goats are funny.’’

“The baseball game at Waves is awesome!

I won SO many tickets!’’

Owen, 8, tests his luck at the Waves Arcade after a day at the indoor waterpark. americananiagara.com/niagara-fallsindoor-waterpark

“The lights in Niagara Falls at Christmas time are so pretty.’’

Ciara, 8, gets in the holiday spirit with a visit to the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights. wfol.com

Mason, 3, hangs out with his furry friends at Happy Rolph’s Bird Sanctuary in St. Catharines. tourismstcatharines.ca/things-to-do/outdoor-activities

MOM & POP TALK

Visit Niagara Canada’s social media community also weighed in with tips from a parent’s perspective for fun-filled family travel in Niagara.

“Make sure they have comfortable shoes.’’

Antoinette

“Make sure you go for more than one day, so you can enjoy all the attractions.’’

Naiddla

“Look for attraction packages.

Don’t be afraid to ask people that work in the hotels too.

That’s what they’re there for.’’

Adam

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Love me tender

NOTABLE NIAGARA

A visit to Niagara means you’re smack dab in the middle of Ontario’s tender fruit capital.

Be sure to savour the flavours of freshly plucked perfection on your next visit.

Cherries IN SEASON

Peaches, Plums and Nectarines

Pears

July and August

August and September

Pick a basket yourself at

Join in the fun at the Niagara-

Raise a glass of Sunnybrook

Hildreth Farms in Beamsville.

on-the-Lake Peach Festival

Farm Estate Winery's

hildrethfarms.ca

from August 8 – 9.

Pear Blossom Wine.

niagaraonthelake.com

sunnybrookwine.com

June and July

CELEBRATE THE HARVEST

ENJOY IT IN A FRESHLY MADE TREAT Stop by 13th Street Winery’s

The Rainbow Room by

Spend the night at The

onsite bakery for delectable

Massimo Capra in Niagara

Historic Pacific B&B in

cherry tarts – get a few extra

Falls makes a delectable fruit

Niagara-on-the-Lake and

for the road!

crumble featuring vanilla

you may be treated to a

13thstreetwinery.com

roasted seasonal Niagara fruit.

delicious pear turnover

fallsviewrainbowroom.com

for breakfast.

STOCK UP FOR WINTER WHILE YOU'RE HERE

thehistoricpacific.com

Pick up a bottle of 100%

Stop by Greaves Jams and

Grab a few jars of Pear Jam

Pure Concentrated Tart Cherry

Marmalades in Niagara-on-

from Kurtz Orchards Farm

Juice at Cherry Lane Frozen

the-Lake for a bottle of their

and Gourmet Marketplace

Fruits in Vineland. It’s loaded

peach jam. It’s loaded with

in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

with antioxidants and has all

hand-picked peaches

kurtzorchards.com

sorts of health benefits.

and is a delicious glaze

cherrylane.net

for pork. greavesjams.com

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CAPTION:

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FORT GEORGE, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE (PHOTOGRAPHED BY COSMO CONDINA)

HISTORY AND HERITAGE

OLD FORT ERIE Built in 1764, Old Fort Erie was the first fort built in Ontario by the British. With over 200 years of history, this Canadian landmark has some stories to tell. It served as the Underground Railroad’s major crossing point into Canada and was also the site of one of the War of 1812’s bloodiest battles, The Siege of Fort Erie, which is re-enacted each August.

Old Fort Erie’s Ghost Tours have become a popular tradition. Thrills and chills are guaranteed as costumed interpreters with lanterns walk you through the old stone fort sharing the eerie stories of the ghosts who are believed to have made themselves at home there. oldforterie.com

FORT GEORGE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Fort George served as the headquarters for the Centre Division of the British Army during the War of 1812. Today, visitors can experience the sounds of the Fife and Drum band, watch the training maneuvers of the 41st Regiment Infantry unit, taste food prepared over an open fire in the Officer's Kitchen, and witness musket and artillery demonstrations, but that’s not all.

Brave-hearted souls can step inside Fort CAPTION:

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George after dark for a candlelit ghost walk and learn about the hundreds of reported paranormal sightings, ranging from the benevolent spirit of a little girl named Sarah Ann to a more ominous presence simply known as "The Watcher."

There’s also a special Halloween ghost walk that features stories too frightening to be told on the summer tours, and offers access to the Officers' Quarters, which are normally off limits. niagaraghosts.com

DOWNTOWN ST. CATHARINES FULL MOON GHOST WALKS When the moon is full from April through October the spooky stories of St. Catharines’ historic downtown come out with the sharing of eye-witness accounts of hauntings and paranormal experiences. The 75-minute walking tours highlight spine-tingling tales including strange occurrences that took place during a series of séances and a poltergeist-plagued young boy whose story made it all the way to Johnny Carson’s monologue in 1970.

Merritt House, once home to William Hamilton Merritt, builder of the Welland Canal, is a popular stop on the tour. The spirit of Mary, a maid who lived in the attic

quarters and tripped to her death down the mansion’s stairs, is believed to be just one of the many spirits that have given this St. Catharines landmark its reputation as one of the most haunted houses in Canada. mydowntown.ca/events

THE OLDE ANGEL INN Niagara-on-the-Lake’s The Olde Angel Inn is Ontario’s oldest operating inn, originally established in 1789. Two centuries ago, British soldiers and townsfolk gathered here for food and drink.

Legend has it that in 1813, Captain Colin Swayze delayed joining the British retreat in order to rendezvous with a young woman, believed to be his true love.

Surprised by American soldiers sent to search the Inn, he hid in an empty barrel in the cellar. The invaders used bayonets to prod into every possible hiding place and the unlucky lover received a fatal wound. Many believe strange noises heard coming from the empty dining room, rearranged place settings and other strange occurrences are the work of the Ghost of Captain Swayze. But don’t let that you keep you away. It is said that his ghost will remain harmless as long as the British flag flies over the Inn, a precaution prudently taken by the proprietor. angel-inn.com

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GREAT TRAILS

FOUR PALS + EIGHT WHEELS = MILES OF FUN EXPLORING NIAGARA’S CYCLING TRAILS

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“We actually did it,” I marvel as we stand back and admire the four bikes snugly secured in the super-sized bike rack. I’m ashamed to admit that the loading of the bike rack has traditionally been designated a “boy job” in our household, but today’s cycling adventure is all about girl power.

While we’re all huge fans of Niagara’s wineries and have been known to do more than our fair share of spending at the region’s many great shopping destinations, a sunny summer day calls for an outdoor adventure. Looking for something new, we’re putting foot to pedal and hitting the Welland Canal Trail, a paved 42-kilometre trail that winds its way from Lake Ontario to Port Colborne. Our priorities are a leisurely ride and a delicious lunch, so we’ve decided to make a two-way trip on the Welland to Port Colborne section, which will be about a 34-kilometre cruise.

Once our wheels hit the trail in Welland, we quickly fall into an easy riding rhythm. The trail is flat and smooth, making it easy to chat as we go and catch up on the news in each other’s lives.

Sights along the trail range from the impressive new Welland Pan Am Flatwater Centre, which will host the 2015 Pan Am Games canoe and kayak sprint events to the historic former Robin Hood Flour Mill. As we cross a rusty old bridge and stop to watch the water gently rolling past beneath us, we listen to the birds singing in the bushes and feel like we’ve been magically transported a few decades back in time.

Arriving in Port Colborne, we’re delighted to cruise into Lock 8 Gateway Park. An elevated platform for viewing ships making their way up and down the Welland Canal is the perfect place for watching this marvel of engineering. There are also beautiful flower gardens, fountains and a picnic pavilion, which reminds us: we’re starving!

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ABOVE CLOCKWISE: A NIAGARA FRUITSTAND; WELLAND RECREATIONAL WATERWAY TRAIL, WELLAND; @27 RESTAURANT, PORT COLBORNE; NIAGARA VINEYARDS; WELLAND RECREATIONAL WATERWAY TRAIL, WELLAND; THE NIAGARA PARKWAY, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE.

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The Canalside Restaurant’s open-air patio beckons and offers up yet another fantastic view of the Welland Canal. The Lake Erie perch seems like an obvious choice for the farm-to-table fans among us, but there are also great gluten-free options and an interesting selection of sandwiches. An impressive choice of local wines and Ontario craft beers makes quenching our thirst from this morning’s ride an enviable task.

After lunch we take a break from the bikes and wander along Main Street West on foot. Interesting shops in beautifully preserved heritage buildings beckon — if only we’d brought a trailer to cart home some of these finds!

After fueling up with butter tarts and lemon squares from a nearby bakery, we set off on our journey back to Welland. Our repeat encounters with the landmarks we discovered this morning are welcomed like old friends. Before we know it, we’re back at our car, strapping in our bikes to the bike rack like old pros and asking each other...

“When can we do this again? again?’’

Plan your trip

Niagara Region’s Scenic Bicycle Routes tool allows users to search over 200 cycling routes in Niagara and sort by theme, terrain, route length, municipality and level of difficulty. Users can print a pdf version or download the Bike Map App for iphone and take their planned trip with them.

Learn more at niagararegion.ca/exploring/cycle

VINELAND ESTATES WINERY, VINELAND

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BACK STAGE PASS Take a peek behind the curtain at the Shaw Festival

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ARTS AND CULTURE

As we enter the empty theatre a burly stagehand vacuums the rug of an ornate living room set while another delicately combs a swath of floor-to-ceiling ribbons.

It’s a side of this world-class repertory theatre we’ve never considered before and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

Whether you’re an avid theatre enthusiast or are attending your first production, the Shaw Festival’s hour-long Backstage Tour experience offers a perspective that will forever change the way you watch live theatre. Passionate guides share insider stories and provide behindthe-scenes access to areas guests don’t normally get to see.

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Did you know? The Shaw uses yak hair to create realistic looking sideburns and moustaches.

ABOVE: VIEW OF FESTIVAL THEATRE AND COURTYARD FROM THE SOUTH LAWN, SHAW FESTIVAL, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, ON CANADA (PHOTOGRAPHED BY COSMO CONDINA PHOTOGRAPHY)

THE DRESSING ROOM Stepping into a working dressing room provides a glimpse into the magical transformation that happens as cast members prepare to make their entrance onto the stage. The wigs used at The Shaw, which are made of human hair shipped from a broker in England, can take up to 40 hours of labour to create. It’s a painstaking process to ensure each wig is customized to each actor’s hairline, and some have learned the hard way that a spontaneous mid-season haircut can lead to a serious reprimand from the costume department.

ABOVE: COSTUMES ARE ORGANIZED IN THE DRESSING ROOM FOR QUICK CHANGES

THE SHAW’S 2015 SEASON FEATURES 11 PRODUCTIONS INCLUDING THE RE-ENVISIONING OF TWO ENDURING

SWEET CHARITY Charity Valentine, the eternally optimistic dance hall hostess, her romantic trials and tribulations and New York in the Swinging Sixties take centre stage.

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PYGMALION Bernard Shaw’s hugely popular tale of a Cockney flower girl who is transformed into a “lady” is reimagined in a new production.

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LIGHT UP THE SKY A madcap love letter to the theatre written by one of Broadway’s most renowned playwrights, Moss Hart.

PETER AND THE STARCATCHER A humorous and adventurous prequel to the tale of Peter Pan and his arch nemesis Captain Hook.

YOU NEVER CAN TELL Comic errors and mistaken identities abound in Bernard Shaw’s most lighthearted and whimsical play that still manages to examine the issues of social justice, marriage and freedom.

THE DIVINE Sarah Bernhardt’s controversial visit to Quebec City in 1908 is used to explore the tensions between Church, State and Theatre.

ARTS AND CULTURE

ABOVE: MINIATURE SET MODELS IN THE REHEARSAL HALL

Did you know?

Every minute of a production on stage requires 60 minutes of rehearsal time.

ABOVE:A GUIDE SHARES STAGE SECRETS IN THE FESTIVAL THEATRE

THE REHEARSAL HALL It seems fitting that the Rehearsal Hall looks like a large classroom, because this is where the actors come to study. From initial script readings, to blocking, voice coaching and dress rehearsals, the work that happens in this room is at the heart of what transports the audience when they see the final product. The miniature models of the sets that the actors use as a reference during their rehearsals fascinate us.

SHAW COMEDIES AND TWO NEWLY COMMISSIONED CANADIAN WORKS.

THE LADY FROM THE SEA A moving story about a wife faced with a lasting choice that will ultimately change her fate and the future of her family.

TOP GIRLS A powerful, relevant time-bending work that crosses centuries examining the role of women in society and the price that must be paid to get to the top.

THE TWELVEPOUND LOOK A “grown-up” social satire full of wit and irony about an early 20th-century woman who trades money and status for freedom and liberation. Written by J.M. Barrie, the creator of Peter Pan.

THE INTELLIGENT HOMOSEXUAL’S GUIDE TO SOCIALISM AND CAPITALISM WITH A KEY TO THE SCRIPTURES A funny and deeply moving rollercoaster ride through values, both familial and political, played out in a Brooklyn brownstone.

THE NEXT WHISKY BAR – A KURT WEILL CABARET A cabaret featuring a playlist of familiar songs by Kurt Weill, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century.

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ARTS AND CULTURE

CLOCKWISE: THE WARDROBE DEPARTMENT

“Who’d have thought?” continues to be the collective sentiment as our tour group makes its way through the set storage area and the “Trap Room” beneath the stage. We’ve stepped through the looking glass and we can’t wait to experience a show from this brand new perspective when the curtain lifts in a few more hours.

THE WARDROBE DEPARTMENT “Are you ready for the eye-popping, jaw-dropping, part of the tour?” our enthusiastic guide laughs. The Shaw’s talented Wardrobe Department makes almost everything

If you go

for costumes besides shoes, and that fact is evident the

The Shaw Festival’s Backstage Tours are offered at 11

moment you step onto their turf. Rows of sewing machines,

a.m. on weekends in April and May, and on Tuesday,

huge racks of thread and industrial-strength irons speak to

Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from June through

the hours and hours that go into the stunning costumes on

October. Tickets are $10, or $5 with a ticket to a

display. An organized rack of labeled costumes for

performance, and can be booked in advance through

understudies illustrates the level of planning that goes into

the Box Office or, if available, just prior to the tour.

costumes for each production – not all understudies are

Learn more at shawfest.com

the same size as their counterpart, after all.

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PARTY CENTRAL These perennial favourites attract a crowd for good reason.

PASSPORT These events are just the ticket for unique tasting experiences at multiple Niagara wineries.

FOODIE FUN If you’re as passionate about what’s on your plate as what’s in your glass, these food-focused wine events are sure to please.

A PLAN FOR ALL

SEASONS

IN NIAGARA WINE COUNTRY Our 12-month roundup of wine country fun proves harvest time isn’t the only season our wineries shine.

ARTS These events pair wine with great music, theatre and film.

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Get Fresh in the Valley

Graze the Bench

APRIL

JUNE grazethebench.com

20valley.ca

New Vintage Festival JUNE niagarawinefestival.ca

SPRING & SUMMER

Sip and Sizzle MAY wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com

MARCH TO AUGUST

After a long, cold winter, Niagara’s wineries are always eager to shake off the chill. New vintages are celebrated, sumptuous food pairings sizzle on the grill, and lush vineyards become the beautiful backdrop for movies, music and theatre.

Cuvée MARCH PASSPORT

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FOODIE FUN

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PARTY CENTRAL

ARTS

cuvee.ca

Shakespeare in the Vineyard JULY shakespeareinthevineyard.com

International Cool Climate Celebration

Trius Jazz at the Winery JULY triuswines.com

JULY coolchardonnay.org

Niagara Integrated Film Festival JUNE niagarafilmfest.com

Vinemount Velo Winery Cycling Tour

Jackson-Triggs Summer Concert Series

AUGUST - OCTOBER

JUNE - SEPTEMBER

20valley.ca

Wine Country Fare

jacksontriggswinery.com

Trius Blues at the Winery

AUGUST

AUGUST

pellerestates.com

triuswines.com

Peller Estates Food Truck Eats MAY pellerestates.com

F’ing Wine Tour MAY 20valley.ca

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Niagara Wine Festival SEPTEMBER niagarawinefestival.com

Wrapped Up in the Valley NOVEMBER 20valley.ca

Taste the Season NOVEMBER wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com

FALL

SEPTEMBER TO NOVEMBER Celebrate the harvest of Niagara’s favourite fruit at a host of autumn events.

PASSPORT

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FOODIE FUN

PARTY CENTRAL

visitniagaracanada.com

ARTS

The Pinot Affair OCTOBER thepinotaffair.com

WINTER DECEMBER TO FEBRUARY

Niagara’s flurry of winter wine festivals and events are guaranteed to tempt your taste buds and warm your heart.

Twenty Valley Winter WineFest

Niagara Icewine Festival

JANUARY

JANUARY

20valley.ca

niagarawinefestival.com

Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival

The Twenty Valley Wine Experience

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

niagaraonthelake.com

20valley.ca

Days of Wine and Chocolate FEBRUARY wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com

DÎNER EN BLANC, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

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View Finder

By Jim Kenzie

Jim Kenzie cruises his way to some of Niagara’s most stunning views and vantage points.

As the Jaguar F-Type I’m driving purrs its way

Fifty-some years later, it’s clear there is no

through Niagara’s twists and turns, I can’t help

shortage of “now what’s” in Niagara. Whether

but think of my late brother, Ross. During his

you’re looking for stunning scenery, history,

tenure as Manager of the Niagara Falls Visitor

entertainment, golf, or are just a car freak like

and Convention Bureau back in the 1960’s,

me looking to drive interesting roads, eat great

Ross was fond of saying that his role was to

food and meet some real characters along the

give people some “now what’s” to experience

way, the Niagara region checks every box.

after they’d seen the Falls.

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GREAT DRIVES

ABOVE: PENINSULA RIDGE ESTATES WINERY, BEAMSVILLE

ABOVE: A TWENTY VALLEY FRUIT STAND

A ROLLING HILL IN TWENTY VALLEY

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CLOCKWISE: BEAMER MEMORIAL CONSERVATION AREA, GRIMSBY; THE GOOD EARTH FOOD AND WINE CO., BEAMSVILLE

Beam me up!

If you’re making your way to Niagara from the Greater Toronto Area, it’s more than worth your time to veer off the highway in Grimsby to stretch your legs at Beamer Memorial Conservation Area. This former 1790 homestead has been designated an Internationally Important Birding Area, and provides a perfect perch for watching the hawk migration in the spring and fall.

Put some fuel in the tank Just down the road, The Good Earth Food and Wine Co. is a great option if you’re looking for a great meal and warm hospitality. Their imaginative menu often showcases ingredients grown right on the farm and the surrounding gardens, orchards and vineyards are almost as vibrant as proprietress, Nicolette Novak. We had a great chat with her over our lunch and even got a recommendation for a local dentist!

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GREAT DRIVES

CLOCKWISE: LAKE ONTARIO, NIAGARA-ONTHE-LAKE; A NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE BED AND BREAKFAST; BROCK’S MONUMENT, QUEENSTON HEIGHTS; NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE GOLF CLUB; THE SHAW FESTIVAL’S ROYAL GEORGE THEATRE

As you make your way toward Niagara-on-theLake, you’ll know you’re getting close by a rapid increase in signs for Bed and Breakfasts. Niagara must contain the world’s highest concentration and it’s easy to find a great one. Ours provided a luxurious room, a fabulous breakfast and plenty of interesting conversation.

I tend to agree with the remark often attributed to Mark Twain that golf is a good walk ruined, but still enjoyed a visit to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club. Golfers can check playing North America’s oldest course off their bucket list, and non-golfers like myself will be rewarded with excellent food and a gorgeous view of the Niagara River.

History on the rocks Whether you like your history with a human or geological twist, there’s no shortage of either in Niagara. Brock’s Monument honours the British general who repelled the American invasion in the War of 1812, and the prize for braving a trip up its steps is a view that will take what little is left of your breath away. Directly opposite the monument is Roy Terrace, which marks the spot where the Wisconsin Glacier receded some 12,000 years ago to leave a little 11-metre ripple that would eventually erode into the massive Niagara cascades, some 9 kilometres upstream.

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“ Niagara Falls is one of

the few wonders of the world…that you can drive right up to!”

And what drive through Niagara would be complete without

While driving past does provide a decent view, you really need

a spin past those famous Falls? As my nephew (Ross’s son),

to park your car to get a true appreciation for the power and

likes to say, “Victoria Falls may have more water going over it,

majesty of Niagara Falls. Every time I come here I’m amazed at

Angel Falls might be higher, but Niagara Falls is one of the few

the The Old Scow that still sits where it was scuttled some 700

wonders of the world that you can drive right up to!”

metres from the brink of the Falls back in 1918. Equally amazing is the story of seven-year-old Roger Woodward, who survived a plunge over the Horseshoe Falls in 1960 wearing only a swimsuit and a lifejacket.

ABOVE: NIAGARA FALLS

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GREAT DRIVES TORONTO

LAKE ONTARIO NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

55 Y

GRIMSBY

W

QEW E RO

H

Y2 HW

RID G

BEAMSVILLE

AD

HW Y

ST. CATHARINES

8

QUEENSTON

NIAG ARA RIVER

0

HAMILTON

HWY 405

JORDAN

AG

EW

A PARK WAY

Q

WELLAND

NI

AR

HWY 20

USA

NIAGARA FALLS

WELLAND CANAL

From the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) take the Centennial Parkway (Highway 20) south from Stoney Creek about 4 km to Ridge Road. Turn left (east) for a stunning ride along the edge of the Niagara Escarpment until it ends at Thirty Road in Beamsville.

HWY 406

Detour

DUNNVILLE PORT COLBORNE

FORT ERIE

HWY 3

LAKE ERIE

The perfect way to wrap up a drive through Niagara is a cruise down the Niagara Parkway.

Follow this beautifully maintained road all the way to Fort Erie and then turn off your GPS. Now it’s time to find your own path exploring Niagara’s South Coast, where a whole new collection of “now what’s” awaits.

ABOVE: RIVERBEND INN AND VINEYARD, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

Resources

npca.ca/conservation-areas/beamer-memorial goodearthfoodandwine.com notlgolf.com niagaraparks.com/niagara-falls-attractions/brocks-monument southcoasttourism.com

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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.

2015

MAY SIP & SIZZLE PASSPORT PROGRAM Fri., Sat. and Sun. in May Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com SPRING BIRD MIGRATION WALK WITH LOCAL NATURALISTS St. Catharines www.niagaranaturetours.ca F’ING WINERY TOUR May 1-3, 8-10 Vineland www.featherstonewinery.ca NIAGARA FOLK ARTS FESTIVAL May 1-31 St. Catharines www.folk-arts.ca WORLD RUN May 3 Niagara Falls www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com SPRING HANDMADE MARKET AT 13TH STREET WINERY May 8-9 St. Catharines www.handmademarket.ca

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13TH STREET BAKERY & MARKETPLACE OPEN HOUSE May 9 St. Catharines www.13thstreetwinery.com ANNUAL HYDRANGEA DISPLAY May 9 - June 6 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com MOTHER’S DAY TEA AT HISTORIC MCFARLAND HOUSE May 10 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraparks.com CULTURAL CULINARY CRAWL May 12 St. Catharines www.folk-arts.ca SPRING IN THE GLEN TOUR May 16 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com RIVERBRINK ART MUSEUM EXHIBITIONS Opening May 16 Queenston www.riverbrink.org

RIVERBRINK ART MUSEUM FREE ADMISSION WEEKEND May 16-18 Queenston www.riverbrink.org NIAGARA FOLK ARTS FESTIVAL OPEN HOUSES May 16-29 Throughout Niagara www.folk-arts.ca INTERNATIONAL MUSEUMS DAY May 18 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com JANE AUSTEN LECTURE WITH DR. BARBARA SEEBER May 26 Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca NIAGARA FOLK ARTS FESTIVAL JUMP-UP May 29 St. Catharines www.folk-arts.ca SPRINGLICIOUS May 29-31 Niagara Falls www.springlicious.ca

NIAGARA FOLK ARTS FESTIVAL UNDERGROUND RAILROAD TOUR May 30 Throughout Niagara www.folk-arts.ca NIAGARA FOLK ARTS FESTIVAL MONTEBELLO PARK May 30-31 St. Catharines www.folk-arts.ca ARABELLA’S PIE SOCIAL & HISTORY FAIR May 31 Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca

JUNE TASTE OF LINCOLN June Twenty Valley/Lincoln www.20valley.ca OPENING DAY AT FORT ERIE RACE TRACK June 2 Fort Erie www.forterieracing.com

FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT CONCERT: BOSTON June 3, 4 Niagara Falls www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com

FLORAL SHOWHOUSE REGAL GERANIUM SHOW June 6-26 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com

JANET CARNOCHAN DAY June 4 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarahistorical.museum

NIAGARA VEGFEST June 7 St. Catharines www.niagaravegfest.com

FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT CONCERT: JOHN KAY & STEPPENWOLF June 5, 6 Niagara Falls www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com

NIAGARA FALLS WOMEN’S HALF MARATHON June 7 Niagara Falls www.nfwhm.com

NIAGARA FALLS COMIC CON June 5-7 Niagara Falls www.niagarafallscomiccon.com SHAW GARDEN TOUR June 6 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.shawfest.com STEVENSVILLE SPRINGFEST June 6 Stevensville 13TH STREET WINERY SPRING NEW VINTAGES CELEBRATION June 6 St. Catharines www.13thstreetwinery.com

FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT CONCERT: STEVEN MA & SUSANNA KWAN June 7, 8 Niagara Falls www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com FESTIVAL OF SMILES June 11 Pelham www.pelham.ca NIAGARA FALLS RIB FEST June 12-14 Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsribfest.com

FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT CONCERT: SPIRIT OF THE DANCE June 12-21 (excluding June 17) Niagara Falls www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com RIDE TO CONQUER CANCER TWO-DAY CYCLE CHALLENGE June 13-14 Niagara Falls www.conquercancer.ca NIAGARA NEW VINTAGE FESTIVAL June 13-14, 20-21 Niagara www.niagarawinefestival.com PINK IS THE NEW BLACK June 13-14, 20-21 Vineland www.featherstonewinery.ca POLISH SUNDAY ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE June 14 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com KIDS FISHING DERBY June 14 Port Colborne www.pcdcc.com

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THE WHITE EFFECTS DINNER June 18 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com

FATHER’S DAY AT FORT ERIE RACE TRACK June 21 Fort Erie www.forterieracing.com

PELHAM’S HERITAGE TEA PARTY June 27 Pelham www.pelham.ca

NIAGARA INTEGRATED FILM FESTIVAL (NIFF) June 18-21 Locations throughout Niagara www.niagarafilmfest.com

SUMMER SOLSTICE DRUMMING DOWN THE SUN June 21 Port Dalhousie www.niagaranaturetours.ca

PELHAM MULTICULTURAL DAY June 27 Pelham www.pelham.ca

23RD ANNUAL 444 INTERNATIONAL WALLEYE TOURNAMENT June 19-21 Port Colborne www.pcdcc.com

MAYOR’S DRIVE FORE BUSINESS GOLF TOURNAMENT June 22 Legends on the Niagara www.forteriechamber.com

GRAPES OF WRATH – NIAGARA’S EXTREME SURVIVAL RACE June 27 St. Catharines www.cancer.ca/grapesofwrath

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL June 20 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com

FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT CONCERT: HEART June 25, 26 Niagara Falls www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com

FLAVOURS OF NIAGARA FESTIVAL June 27-28 Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca

NIAGARA NEW VINTAGE FESTIVAL TD TAILGATE PARTY June 20 Niagara www.niagarawinefestival.com

FORT ERIE FRIENDSHIP FESTIVAL June 26—28 Fort Erie www.friendshipfestival.com

S.C.E.N.E. MUSIC FESTIVAL June 27-28 St. Catharines www.scenemusicfestival.com

LAURA SECORD DAY June 20 Queenston www.niagaraparks.com

FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT CONCERT: RICHARD MARX June 27 Niagara Falls www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com

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JULY CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS AT FORT GEORGE July 1 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca CANADA DAY - OPTIMIST DAY IN THE PARK July 1 Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca CANADA DAY FAMILY STREET PARTY July 1 St. Catharines www.tourismstcatharines.ca CANADA DAY IN NIAGARA FALLS July 1 Niagara Falls www.niagarafalls.ca NIAGARA ANTIQUE POWER ASSOCIATION EVENT July 3-5 Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca JOY AND BUBBLES July 3-5 Vineland www.featherstonewinery.ca

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24TH ANNUAL NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE GARDEN TOUR July 4 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com CHERRY FESTIVAL July 4 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com 13TH ANNUAL DOWNTOWN ST. CATHARINES CLASSIC CAR SHOW July 4 Downtown St. Catharines www.tourismstcatharines.ca ARTISTRY BY THE LAKE July 4-5 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com RIDGEWAY SUMMER FESTIVAL July 4-5 Ridgeway www.ridgewayont.ca ANNUAL BATTLE OF CHIPPAWA MEMORIAL July 5 Chippawa www.discover1812.com

SHAKESPEARE IN THE VINEYARD AT HENRY OF PELHAM July 10-12, 17-19 St. Catharines shakespeareinthevineyard.com CONCERTS AND MOVIES IN MONTEBELLO AND LAKESIDE PARKS July 10, 17, 24 St. Catharines stcatharines.ca/moonlightflicks TRIUS JAZZ July 11 Niagara-on the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com BATTLE OF FORT GEORGE, WAR OF 1812 RE-ENACTMENT July 11-12 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.pc.gc.ca/fortgeorge LAVENDER FESTIVAL July 11-12 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.neoblavender.com CRYSTAL BEACH WATERFRONT PARK CONCERT: THE MOONLIGHTERS July 12 Fort Erie www.focb.net

FORT GEORGE CELTIC FESTIVAL July 25 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca PELHAM SUMMERFEST July 16-19 Pelham www.pelhamsummerfest.ca

CHRISTMAS IN JULY July 25 Ridegway www.legionbranch230.com SOUTH ASIAN FESTIVAL & BHANGRA DANCE COMPETITION July 25 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com

INTERNATIONAL COOL CLIMATE CHARDONNAY CELEBRATION (I4C) July 17-19 Locations throughout Niagara www.coolchardonnay.org

MUDDY PAWS WINE FESTIVAL July 25-26 Vineland www.featherstonewinery.ca

SHEEP TOUR July 18, August 18 Vineland www.featherstonewinery.ca

BATTLE OF LUNDY’S LANE COMMEMORATION SERVICE July 26 Niagara Falls www.discover1812.com

CRYSTAL BEACH WATERFRONT PARK CONCERT – THE REMNANTS July 19 Fort Erie www.focb.net NIAGARA JAZZ FESTIVAL July 23-26 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarajazzfestival.com PASSION FOOD AND WINE EVENT July 24 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarapassion.com

80TH PRINCE OF WALES STAKES July 28 Fort Erie www.forterieracing.com WELLAND CANAL CHALLENGE July 31, August 1 & 3 Port Colborne www.whiskyrun.com CANAL DAYS MARINE HERITAGE FESTIVAL July 31 - August 3 Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca

TRIUS BLUES August 8 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com

ROTARY RIBFEST July 31 - August 3 St. Catharines www.rotaryniagara.org

AUG.

PEACH CELEBRATION August 8—9 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com

SIMCOE DAYS August 1-3 Queenston www.niagaraparks.com ROYAL CANADIAN HENLEY REGATTA August 2-9 Port Dalhousie www.henleyregatta.ca THE PAST IS PRESENT: A HERITAGE FESTIVAL August 3, 4 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarahistorical.museum EMMA’S BOXHILL PICNIC August 6 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com CONCERTS AND MOVIES IN MONTEBELLO AND LAKESIDE PARKS August 7, 14, 21 St. Catharines stcatharines.ca/moonlightflicks

SIEGE OF FORT ERIE RE-ENACTMENT August 8—9 Fort Erie www.oldforterie.com CRYSTAL BEACH WATERFRONT PARK CONCERT: THE TORONTO ALL-STAR BIG BAND August 9 Fort Erie www.focb.net SHADES OF SUMMER HARVEST DINNER August 9 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com DOWNTOWN D'LISH August 14-29 St. Catharines www.mydowntown.ca

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DRAGON BOAT NIAGARA 2015 August 14-23 Welland www.wdbrc2015.ca ANNUAL BBQ & BLUES AT 13TH STREET WINERY August 15 St. Catharines www.13thstreetwinery.com 16TH ANNUAL FIFE & DRUM MUSTER AND SOLDIERS FIELD DAYS August 15—16 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.pc.gc.ca/fortgeorge NIAGARA FALLS SOUND & LIGHT SHOW August 21—31 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com CRYSTAL BEACH WATERFRONT PARK CONCERT: BARLEY BRAE August 23 Fort Erie www.focb.net PELLER WINE FARE August 29 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.peller.com

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CHIMNEY SWIFT URBAN AND WILDLIFE SAFARI August 29 St. Catharines & Fort Erie www.niagaranaturetours.ca ECHOES OF NIAGARA’S PAST August 29—30 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.pc.gc.ca/fortgeorge

ANNUAL HARVEST BBQ September 6 Queenston www.niagaraparks.com WILLOWBANK STONE FESTIVAL September 11—13 Queenston www.willowbank.ca

SEPT.

NIAGARA FOOD FESTIVAL September 11-13 Welland www.niagarafoodfestival.com

MAJESTIC MONARCHS AT THE BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY September 5 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com

MURDER MYSTERY AT OLD FORT ERIE September 11 Fort Erie www.oldforterie.com

AUTUMN IN THE NIAGARA GLEN HIKING TOUR September 5 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com MARSHVILLE HERITAGE FESTIVAL September 5-7 Wainfleet www.marshvilleheritagefestival. ca

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BIG, BOLD AND BACO September 12-13, 19-20, 26- 27 Vineland www.featherstonewinery.ca ANNUAL REIGER BEGONIA DISPLAY September 12—October 30 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com NIAGARA WINE FESTIVAL September 12—27 Niagara www.niagarawinefestival.com

QUILTS AND THE STORIES THEY TELL September 16 Fort Erie www.town.forterie.ca/Museum A WALK THROUGH HISTORY: THEATRICAL CEMETERY TOUR September 18-19, 25-26 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarahistorical.museum MULTISPORT CANADA - NIAGARA FALLS BARRELMAN TRIATHLON September 20 Niagara Falls www.niagarafallstriathlon.com WAINFLEET FALL FAIR September 24—26 Wainfleet www.wainfleet.ca 2ND ANNUAL GRAND CANADIAN STEAMPUNK EXPOSITION September 25—27 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.canadiansteampunk.com SPLIT ROCK FARMS ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE September 26—27 Fort Erie www.splitrockfarmsbb.com

OCT. BRAVO NIAGARA! PRESENTS THE NORTH STAR FESTIVAL October 2—4 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.bravoniagara.org PIONEER DAY October 3 Jordan www.lincoln.ca BALL’S FALLS THANKSGIVING FESTIVAL October 9-12 Jordan/Vineland www.20valley.ca BATTLE OF QUEENSTON HEIGHTS COMMEMORATIVE TOURS October 10—11 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca OCTOBER GHOST WALKS October 16-28 St. Catharines www.mydowntown.ca ALL HALLOWS EVE TOURS October 23-24, 30-31 Fort Erie www.oldforterie.com

CLOSING DAY AT THE FORT ERIE RACE TRACK October 20 Fort Erie www.forterieracing.com JORDAN VILLAGE HAUNTED TOUR October 23-24 Jordan www.lincoln.ca NIAGARA FALLS INTERNATIONAL MARATHON October 25 Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsmarathon.com ANNUAL CHRYSANTHEMUM DISPLAY October 31 - November 25 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com

NOV. WRAPPED UP IN THE VALLEY November Twenty Valley/Lincoln www.20valley.ca TASTE THE SEASON Fri., Sat. and Sun. in November Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com

GARRISON LITTLE THEATRE PRESENTS “MRS. PARLIAMENT’S NIGHT OUT” November 6-8, 13-14 Fort Erie www.garrisonlittletheatre.com REMEMBRANCE DAY COMMEMORATION PERFORMANCE November 11 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarahistorical.museum FABULICIOUS November 12-19 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com GREATER FORT ERIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 10TH ANNUAL GALA AUCTION November 13 Fort Erie www.forteriechamber.com 13TH BAKERY’S CHRISTMAS REVEAL November 14 St. Catharines www.13thstreetwinery.com NIAGARA FALLS SANTA CLAUS PARADE November 14 Niagara Falls www.niagarafalls.ca

STRUTT WEARABLE ART SHOW November 21 St. Catharines www.struttwearableartshow.ca

PELHAM OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS MARKET December 4 Fonthill www.pelham.ca

PORT COLBORNE SANTA CLAUS PARADE December 5 Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca

FORT ERIE SANTA CLAUS PARADE November 21 Fort Erie

PELHAM 17TH ANNUAL ROTARY HOUSE TOUR December 4-5 Pelham www.pelham.ca

13TH STREET WINERY’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE December 5 St. Catharines www.13thstreetwinery.com

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DISPLAY November 26 - January 10 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com CHRISTMAS IN THE SCHOOL HOUSE November 28 Jordan www.lincoln.ca CHRISTMAS IN QUEENSTON November 28 Queenston www.niagaraparks.com

DEC. CANDLELIGHT STROLL December 4 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com

CHRISTMAS ON THE RIDGE FESTIVAL December 4-6 Ridgeway www.ridgewayont.ca

THE FIVE ELVES YULETIDE TOUR December 5-6 Vineland www.featherstonewinery.ca

A MCFARLAND CHRISTMAS December 4-6 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraparks.com WINTER WINGS OVER NIAGARA December 5 Niagara www.niagaranaturetours.ca THE PHOENIX SOIREE December 5 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarahistorical.museum TUGBOAT SANTA December 5 Port Colborne

GRAND OLD CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL December 6 Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE SANTA CLAUS PARADE December 12 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com HOLIDAY TEA AT THE MCFARLAND HOUSE December 12-13 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraparks.com

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NEW YEAR'S EVE December 31 Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca

NIAGARA ICEWINE FESTIVAL January 15-31 Niagara www.niagarawinefestival.com

ET CANADA’S NEW YEAR'S EVE AT NIAGARA FALLS December 31 Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com www.etcananda.com

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE ICEWINE FESTIVAL January 15-25 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com

2016

JAN.

2016 IIHF ICE HOCKEY U18 WOMEN'S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP January 2016 St. Catharines www.hockeycanada.ca TWENTY VALLEY WINTER WINEFEST January 2016 Jordan Village www.20valley.ca XEROX ICEWINE GALA January 15 Niagara Falls www.niagarawinefestival.com

NIAGARA ICEWINE FESTIVAL January 22-24 Niagara Falls www.icewinefestivals.com

FEB. DAYS OF WINE AND CHOCOLATE Fri., Sat. and Sun. in February Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com TWENTY VALLEY SENSATIONAL EXPERIENCE February Twenty Valley/Lincoln www.20valley.ca SPORTSFEST February Port Colborne www.portcolborne.ca

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FAMILY DAY PROGRAMMING February 15 Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsmuseums.ca

MAR. MARCH BREAK PROGRAMMING March 15—18 Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsmuseums.ca PELHAM’S EGGSTRAVAGANZA! March 27 Pelham www.pelham.ca

APR. GET FRESH IN THE VALLEY April Twenty Valley/Lincoln www.20valley.ca

ONGOING EVENTS @ THE MUSEUM THURSDAY NIGHT Year Round (Free admission after 5p.m.)

Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsmuseums.ca WHITE MEADOW FARM TOURS Open every weekend year round and daily July & August St. Catharines www.whitemeadowfarms.com THE GREAT WAR LECTURE SERIES March - October (Every third Thursday) Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarahistorical.museum SHAW FESTIVAL April - November Niagara-on-the-Lake www.shawfest.com

LIFE UNDER CANVAS: NIAGARA CAMP 1915-1919 April 15, 2015 April 15, 2016 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarahistorical.museum COCA-COLA CONCERT SERIES AND FALLS FIREWORKS May 15 - September 6 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com WELLAND CANOE RENTAL PROGRAM May - September (weekends only in May & September) Welland www.canalcorp.ca BROCK’S MONUMENT NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE TOURS May - September Queenston www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca PELHAM FARMERS’ MARKET May 7 - October 8 (Thursday nights) Pelham www.pelham.ca SHARING AN ICON: NIAGARA FALLS THROUGH THE CENTURIES May 14 - September 6 Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsmuseums.ca

SAFARI NIAGARA ANNUAL SUMMER CONCERT SERIES June - August Stevensville www.safariniagara.com PELHAM SUPPER MARKET June 4 - September 3 (Thursday nights) Pelham www.pelham.ca FRIDAY NIGHT FRIGHTS: GHOST TOURS AT OLD FORT ERIE June 12, July 3 and August 14 Fort Erie www.oldforterie.com LIVE SUMMER ENTERTAINMENT June 15 - October 15 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES June 21 - August 30 Queenston www.niagaraparks.com FLORAL SHOWHOUSE ANNUAL SUMMER SHOW June 27 - September 11 Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com

RCMP OFFICER MEET AND GREET June 28 - August 30 (Fri., Sat. and Sun.) Niagara Falls www.niagaraparks.com HISTORICAL WALKING TOURS OF NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE June - September Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagarahistorical.museum HISTORICAL WALKING TOURS OF QUEENSTON June - September Queenston www.riverbrink.org JACKSON-TRIGGS NIAGARA ESTATECONCERTS IN THE VINEYARD June - September Niagara-on-the-Lake www.jacksontriggswinery.com SUPPER AT THE MARKET WEDNESDAYS June - September Niagara-on-the-Lake www.marketatthevillage.ca

FOOD FOR HEALTH EXHIBITION September - January Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsmuseums.ca

For additional events and more details, go to visitniagaracanada.com

CHRISTMAS IN PELHAM November 4 - January 3 Pelham www.pelham.ca WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS November 14 January 11 Niagara Falls www.wfol.com WINTER IN WINE COUNTRY December—February Niagara-on-the-Lake www.niagaraonthelake.com CANADA’S WATERSCAPES INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION January 2016 - April Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsmuseums.ca

MUSIC NIAGARA CONCERT SERIES July 11 - August 9 Niagara-on-the-Lake www.musicniagara.org visitniagaracanada.com

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APPROXIMATELY 75km — less than 1 hour —

Approximate driving distance to Niagara

76

visitniagaracanada.com

niagara places St. Catharines / Twenty Valley West Lincoln

westlincolnchamber.com

Grimsby

town.grimsby.on.ca

Lincoln/Twenty Valley lincoln.ca 20valley.ca

St. Catharines

tourismstcatharines.ca

Thorold

thoroldtourism.ca

Niagara-on-the-Lake Niagara-on-the-Lake niagaraonthelake.com

APPROXIMATELY 50km — 40 minutes —

Niagara Falls Niagara Falls

niagarafallstourism.com

Niagara's Southcoast southcoasttourism.com

Pelham

mypelham.com

Welland welland.ca

Fort Erie

forteriecanada.com

Port Colborne

portcolborne.ca experienceportcolborne.com

Wainfleet wainfleet.ca

Discover Niagara’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

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