Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario is a beautiful destination any time of year. But as the vibrant colors of fall start to set in, this preserved town transforms into a must-see marvel. From tree-lined streets to stunning chateaus, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers visitors a peaceful, idyllic vacation in one of Ontario’s most beautiful small towns. During fall, a trip there simply wouldn’t be complete without stopping by some of the town’s top attractions and landmarks.
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Catch a Show at The Shaw Festival
The Shaw Festival is an ongoing theatre experience that begins in April and runs all the way through the holiday season. The festival first began in 1962 as an homage to Irish playwright Bernard Shaw’s work. Over 62 seasons, the Shaw Festival has included productions from many other beloved playwrights and novelists, including Charles Dickens and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Plays today are hosted in three stunning theatres—the Festival Theatre, the Royal George Theatre, and the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre—as well as the beautiful outdoor Spiegeltent venue.
Taste Niagara’s World-Famous Wines
Located in the heart of Niagara wine country, visiting wineries for tastings and tours is one of the best activities Niagara-on-the-Lake has to offer. The region is known for its riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet franc, rose, and sparkling wines. September and October are prime harvest months, making a stop in fall a must on your Niagara-on-the-Lake itinerary. If you need help narrowing down options, check out Konzelmann Estate Winery Château Des Charmes Winery.
Konzelmann Estate Winery is the only lakefront winery in the town. Since 1984, the Konzelmann family has owned and operated this gorgeous winery and provided tastings, private experiences, and special events. Aside from the 100% Niagara-grown wines, guests can also see views of Toronto’s skyline across Lake Ontario, including glimpses of the CN Tower. Château Des Charmes Winery is located amidst 40 hectares along the southern part of the town. Beside its immaculate entryway and grounds, the winery is also known for its sustainable farming practices, making it one of Canada’s few Certified Sustainable Wineries.
Stroll Down Queen Street
If you’re looking for Niagara-on-the-Lake shopping and restaurants, Queen Street is the place to go. Considered one of the prettiest streets in all of Ontario, Queen Street is the epicenter of historical charm. This picturesque street has picture-perfect houses, boutiques, bistros, hotels, and more. Much of the street was rebuilt following the War of 1812 and has been carefully preserved ever since.
Check Out the Waterfront Scenery
If Niagara-on-the-Lake’s weather holds during fall, a walk along the shores of Lake Ontario and the Niagara River offers breathtaking views of the waterfront without the hustle and bustle of the summer crowds. Ryerson Park, Mississauga Beach, and Queen’s Royal Park are located right along the lake and river, allowing guests to walk near or along the shore.
Visit Museums and Historical Sites
There are plenty of historical things to see in Niagara-on-the-Lake, as its roots go back to the late 1700s. Fort George National Historic Site played a crucial role during the War of 1812. It was established to protect the region from American attacks by neighboring Fort Niagara on the American side of the river. Fort George has eight restored buildings, military music performances, and plenty of daily programs suited for guests of all ages. Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum delves further into local history through a curated collection of local preserved heritage and artifacts. On Queen Street, the Niagara Apothecary provides visitors with an authentic look at the turn-of-the-century apothecary.
