Niagara Falls

Derek Purdy
Niagara Falls and Wine Country Guide
Niagara On The Lake, Niagara Falls (ON), 4 Days
Table of contents:
Guide Description 2
Itinerary Overview 3
Daily Itineraries 5
Niagara On The Lake Snapshot 16
Niagara Falls (ON) Snapshot 17
1
Guide Description
AUTHOR NOTE: A visit to Niagara Falls is on the list of most
travelers, - which explains why more than 7 million people visited
last year alone. But a first time visitor can be overwhelmed by
the variety of activities available, and may be unaware of the
natural beauty of the broader area, or the fact that Canada's most
famous wine growing country and culinary hotspot is just a short
drive, or bike ride, away.
2
things to do
restaurants
hotels
nightlife
Itinerary Overview
Day 1 - Niagara Falls (ON)
DAY NOTE: Niagara Falls is the reason you are here - you
and over seven million others who make the pilgrimage to see
one of the wonders of the world each year. Chances are, if you
are traveling to Niagara Falls on this first day, you will arrive
sometime past noon. I'd recommend checking in to your hotel,
-one with a great Falls' view like the newly opened tower of the
Hilton Niagara, which has sliding panels beside the Jacuzzi tub
so you can soak in a bubble bath while you gaze at the Falls. It's
also officially the tallest hotel in Canada. The Sheraton Fallsview
also has great room views, and the Tower Hotel in the Konica
Tower is a newly renovated space with probably the most exciting
views in the city. There's an amazing range of accommodations from bargain to deluxe boutiques - and every kind of cuisine you
desire.
.
The best time to view the Falls up close and personal is early
in the morning, so save that for tomorrow. Take a walk along
Fallsview Boulevard, do some shopping and maybe stop for
a drink at one of the many outdoor patios. Make your dinner
reservations early. This is a very busy town from May until
October. For your first night, I'd suggest looking for one of the fine
dining rooms with a view of the Falls, like The Watermark. End
your night with a visit to the glamorous Fallsview Casino, topped
off with a nightcap in R5, an intimate bar with spectacular views
of the illuminated Falls.
.
the White Water Walk, the Floral Clock, and the Botanical
Gardens. Spend some exciting time on Clifton Hill, where the
carnival atmosphere is lively and noisy. One of the best places
to photograph the Falls is from the top of the SkyWheel ride.
Ripley's Believe It Or Not is interesting but more suited to teens
or adults, and some of the attractions, like the House of Horrors,
are too scary for children. But there are plenty of things that will
appeal to the younger set. Prices can add up, so think about
buying one of the group passes, obtained at most of the outlets.
.
End your evening with a great pizza at Antica Pizzeria at the
top of Clifton Hill, or go upscale and dine in the best restaurant
in town, AG in the Sterling Inn. Save some time to take in a
show at the Greg Frewin Theatre or visit one of the clubs, like
the Dragonfly on Fallsview Boulevard. The shows at the Imax
Theatre often display the history and fascination of the Falls, and
help to add layers to your enjoyment.
.
Journey Behind The Falls
Thundering Great Fun
Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Museum
You Gotta Believe
Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory
Free-Flying Butterflies
Niagara Falls
Floral Clock
Watermark Restaurant (The)
Screamers House Of Horrors
Spectacular Natural Wonder
Dine with a View
Day 2 - Niagara Falls (ON)
DAY NOTE: This is the day to really see the Mighty Niagara
and you'll want to start early. It's a good idea to purchase the
Great Gorge Adventure Pass at the kiosk at the bottom of
Murray Street. The pass includes most of the major attractions
in and around the Falls, as well as all day access to the People
Mover which will take you to all the Niagara Parks Commission
stops. You can even buy the pass ahead of time online at
www.niagaraparks.com. You can pay by credit card, customize
your pass and print out your ticket.
.
Do the Falls attractions first, starting with The Maid of the Mist.
Last summer, Brad Pitt brought his children here to sail on the
Maid while Angelina was filming nearby.
.
Use the People Mover to travel through the lovely parklands
and visit the other attractions, like the Butterfly Conservatory,
See it in Time
Get Ready to Scream
Konica Minolta Tower
For that Breathtaking View
Cham Shan Temple
Enjoy the Buddhist way of life
Niagara Falls IMAX Theatre
Presenting Niagara's Myth & Magic
Day 3 - Niagara On The Lake,
Niagara Falls (ON)
DAY NOTE: Now it's time for some history, some retail therapy
and some theatrical fun. A short drive from Niagara Falls will take
you to Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of the most historically important
3
things to do
restaurants
hotels
nightlife
Itinerary Overview
and well preserved towns in Canada, often called "Canada's
prettiest town". Old Fort George is a window into living history,
recreating the days before the War of 1812. The Shaw Festival
presents excellent theatre, and the main street of this lovely town
is lined with specialty shops that are irresistible. There's elegant
dining at historic places like The Charles Inn, and more casual
dining at pubs like the Angel. Enjoy an authentic English high tea
at the Prince of Wales Hotel. Tour the Laura Secord Home or visit
the Riverbend Art Gallery for a glimpse of some of Canada's most
historic art pieces.
.
There are many fine hotels here, from the elegance of the
Queen's Landing and the warmly inviting Harbour house, to the
simplicity of Apple Tree B&B.
.
Arrange ahead of time to secure tickets to one of the plays at
the Shaw Festival. This season's The Ideal Husband" by Oscar
Wilde, is spectacular. Afterwards, enjoy a drink in the bar at the
Prince of Wales, where many of the actors come to decompress
after a performance.
.
of the best wine in the country - places like Daniel Lenko Winery
and John Howard Cellars of Distinction.
Vineland Estates Winery - Restaurant
Exquisite Vineyard Dining
PRINCE OF WALES
Lavish Accommodations
Apple Tree Historic B&B
QUEENS LANDING
Laura Secord Homestead
A Canadian Heroine's Historic Home
Fort George National Historic Site
Harbour House, an Ontario's Finest Inn
Charming award winning inn close to the thatre and
downtown
Day 4 - Niagara Falls (ON)
DAY NOTE: This is the day to explore Wine Country. One of
the best ways to see the area is by bike. There are several
companies that conduct guided bike tours that include visits and
tastings at four or five different wineries, as well as lunch. Be sure
to pick up a bottle or two of the ones you particularly liked at the
tastings. Many of these are wines that you can't buy anywhere
else but at the cellar door. Be sure to visit the large and well
established wineries like Peller Estates and Jackson-Triggs, but
don't neglect the smaller boutique wineries that are making some
4
Day 1 - Niagara Falls (ON)
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Niagara Falls is the reason you are here - you and over seven million others who make the pilgrimage to see one of the
wonders of the world each year. Chances are, if you are traveling to Niagara Falls on this first day, you will arrive sometime past noon. I'd
recommend checking in to your hotel, -one with a great Falls' view like the newly opened tower of the Hilton Niagara, which has sliding
panels beside the Jacuzzi tub so you can soak in a bubble bath while you gaze at the Falls. It's also officially the tallest hotel in Canada.
The Sheraton Fallsview also has great room views, and the Tower Hotel in the Konica Tower is a newly renovated space with probably
the most exciting views in the city. There's an amazing range of accommodations - from bargain to deluxe boutiques - and every kind of
cuisine you desire.
.
The best time to view the Falls up close and personal is early in the morning, so save that for tomorrow. Take a walk along Fallsview
Boulevard, do some shopping and maybe stop for a drink at one of the many outdoor patios. Make your dinner reservations early. This is
a very busy town from May until October. For your first night, I'd suggest looking for one of the fine dining rooms with a view of the Falls,
like The Watermark. End your night with a visit to the glamorous Fallsview Casino, topped off with a nightcap in R5, an intimate bar with
spectacular views of the illuminated Falls.
.
contact:
tel: +1 905 356 6061(Tourist
Information) /+1 800 563
2557(Tourist Information)
fax: +1 905 356 5567(Tourist
Information)
http://www.niagarafallstourism
.com/
location:
Niagara Parkway
Niagara Falls ON L2E 6T2
1 Niagara Falls
DESCRIPTION: It all began 12,000 years ago when a huge
trench was carved to create Niagara Falls, spectacular natural
wonder. At the time, the Falls were about 11 kilometers (seven
miles) down river in the Lewiston-Queenston area. In their
present position, the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side
and the American Bridal Veil Falls are eroding at a fast rate.
Together, they pour about 60,000 cubic meters (200,000 cubic
feet) of water every second over the brink. Come the winter
holiday season, the Falls are beguilingly decked out for the
annual Winter Festival of Lights. © wcities.com
wcities
MY NOTE: See the Falls early in the morning. Crowds get
heavier as the day goes on and the walkway along the river
becomes pretty crazy. If you want a good unobstructed view,
especially for photography, get down to the Falls before 9 am.
Also, try to catch the first sailing of the Maid of the Mist, so you
can get a good viewing position, or else wait until late in the
afternoon.
contact:
tel: +1 905 353 7138 / +1 866
388 8396 (Toll Free)
http://www.watermarkrestaura
nt.com/,http://www.niagarafall
shilton.com/dining/
location:
6361 Fallsview Boulevard
Niagara Falls ON L2G 3V9
2 Watermark Restaurant (The)
DESCRIPTION: Have a wonderful dining experience at
The Watermark Restaurant. Housed in Hilton Niagara Falls
Fallsview. This restaurant serves meals that suit the varied
taste buds of international guests it attracts. Prepared with
choicest of ingredients and well presented, every meal is a
treat. Enjoy all this along with a fantastic view this place flaunts.
Must visit for its panoramic views. © wcities.com
Photo courtesy of Watermark
Restaurant (The)
5
Day 1 - continued...
6
Day 2 - Niagara Falls (ON)
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: This is the day to really see the Mighty Niagara and you'll want to start early. It's a good idea to purchase the Great Gorge
Adventure Pass at the kiosk at the bottom of Murray Street. The pass includes most of the major attractions in and around the Falls, as
well as all day access to the People Mover which will take you to all the Niagara Parks Commission stops. You can even buy the pass
ahead of time online at www.niagaraparks.com. You can pay by credit card, customize your pass and print out your ticket.
.
Do the Falls attractions first, starting with The Maid of the Mist. Last summer, Brad Pitt brought his children here to sail on the Maid while
Angelina was filming nearby.
.
Use the People Mover to travel through the lovely parklands and visit the other attractions, like the Butterfly Conservatory, the White
Water Walk, the Floral Clock, and the Botanical Gardens. Spend some exciting time on Clifton Hill, where the carnival atmosphere
is lively and noisy. One of the best places to photograph the Falls is from the top of the SkyWheel ride. Ripley's Believe It Or Not is
interesting but more suited to teens or adults, and some of the attractions, like the House of Horrors, are too scary for children. But there
are plenty of things that will appeal to the younger set. Prices can add up, so think about buying one of the group passes, obtained at
most of the outlets.
.
End your evening with a great pizza at Antica Pizzeria at the top of Clifton Hill, or go upscale and dine in the best restaurant in town,
AG in the Sterling Inn. Save some time to take in a show at the Greg Frewin Theatre or visit one of the clubs, like the Dragonfly on
Fallsview Boulevard. The shows at the Imax Theatre often display the history and fascination of the Falls, and help to add layers to your
enjoyment.
.
contact:
tel: +1 905 351 0254
http://www.niagaraparks.com/
nfgg/behindthefalls.php
location:
6650 Niagara Parkway
Niagara Falls ON L2E 6T2
1 Journey Behind The Falls
DESCRIPTION: This thundering adventure literally brings
visitors beneath and behind the Canadian Horseshoe Falls,
for a wild and wet time up close and personal with one of the
world's natural wonders. Protected by rain gear included in
the price of admission, visitors are taken through various manmade tunnels. They come out at an observation area where the
noise is deafening, the mist all-surrounding, and the view aweinspiring. Open hours vary seasonally. © wcities.com
Photo courtesy of Journey Behind
The Falls
MY NOTE: You'll never get closer to the Falls than this!
contact:
tel: +1 905 356 2238
fax: +1 905 374 7345
http://www.ripleysniagara.com
location:
4960 Clifton Hill
Niagara Falls ON L2G 3N4
2 Ripley's Believe It Or Not!
Museum
DESCRIPTION: Now you can put a face and a place to all
those Believe It or Not cartoon figures when you visit this
gallery of the unusual. Located a block from Casino Niagara
and a walk away from the Falls, this is one of two Believe It
or Not museums in Canada and of 28 worldwide. It features
exhibits and interactive displays inspired by the work of Robert
Ripley, who worked as a cartoonist for The New York Globe in
the early 1900s. Open hours vary seasonally, check website for
details. © wcities.com
Photo courtesy of Ripley's Believe It
Or Not! Museum
7
Day 2 - continued...
MY NOTE: A worthwhile visit, but heavy on reading material.
Each display has a story. Could be a bit tedious for younger
ones.
contact:
tel: +1 905 358 0025 / +1 905
356 2241(City Park Council)
http://www.niagaraparks.com
/garden-trail/butterfly-conserv
atory.html
location:
2405 Niagara Parkway
Niagara Falls ON L2E 6T2
3 Niagara Parks Butterfly
Conservatory
OUR LOCAL EXPERT SAYS:
Don't forget your camera. And be prepared to shed
a few layers of clothes. It is very warm in here, just
the way the butterflies like it.
DESCRIPTION: This attraction is perhaps better for achieving
a state of tranquility than meditating at the Buddhist temple
down the road. In a glassed in conservatory, with a damp and
warm atmosphere, tropical flowers and dense greenery, there
are few sounds - some bird songs, and occasional gasps from
visitors who have spied a beautiful butterfly. But otherwise a
tranquil silence. The Butterfly Conservatory is paradise for
photographers, nature lovers and anyone who loves colour.
It's a good activity for kids, and there are child-based activities
that will keep them happy and amused. Just spotting the exotic
butterfly species in the bushes and trees is exciting - there
are more than 2000 butterflies, flying free, from 65 different
species. The curing pathways and waterfall take you around the
space, and are wheelchair and stroller accessible. Audio tours
are available in six languages. © NileGuide
Photo courtesy of Barbara Ramsay
Orr
MY NOTE: This is a wonderful place, calm. beautiful and
relaxing. Children love it and the butterlies are spectacular.
Great for photography.
contact:
tel: +1 905 371 0254(Tourist
Information) /+1 905 356
2241(Tourist Information)
http://www.niagaraparks.com/
garden-trail/floral-clock.html
location:
14004 Niagara Parkway
Niagara Falls ON L2G 7K3
4 Floral Clock
DESCRIPTION: Administered and cared for by the Niagara Parks
Commission, this clock presents an ever-changing display April to October
and attracts visitors like bees to honey. Located close to the shores of
the Niagara River and directly across from the city power reservoir about
ten kilometers (six miles) north of the Falls, the clock was first set up by
Ontario Hydro in 1950. More than 16,000 plants make up the display and
there's a three-meter wide (ten-foot-wide) oval pool at its front. This is the
perfect photo op for the family album. © wcities.com
MY NOTE: I've never really seen the point of this attraction, but there is
no denying its popularity. There is always a crowd around the clock, taking
photos and posing. IF you're a gardener or a photographer, this could be a
stop for you. Otherwise it is just worth a quick look.
Photo courtesy of Floral
Clock
8
Day 2 - continued...
contact:
tel: +1 905 357 7656
http://www.screamersniagara
.com/
location:
5930 Victoria Avenue
Niagara Falls ON L2G 3N7
5 Screamers House Of Horrors
DESCRIPTION: If you're tired of the sunshine and the roar
of the Falls, why not try walking in total darkness while scary
monsters leap out at you? That's the gist of this haunted house,
where you never know what will come at you next and what
will send you screaming towards the exit. But don't worry, you
simply yell out "screamers" and the ordeal is over; you'll simply
join thousands of others on the Chicken List. © wcities.com
Photo courtesy of Screamers House
Of Horrors
MY NOTE: A little too scary for young ones.
contact:
tel: +1 905 356 1501 / +1 800
461 2492 (Toll Free)
fax: +1 905 356 8245
http://www.niagaratower.com/
location:
6732 Fallsview Boulevard
Niagara Falls ON L2G 3W6
6 Konica Minolta Tower
DESCRIPTION: Konica Minolta Tower ranks as one of the oldest in
town, a landmark since 1962. More than 150 meters (500 feet) above the
Niagara Gorge, the tower features a spectacular view of the surrounding
countryside from its indoor and outdoor observation decks and top-notch
dining room in the Pinnacle Restaurant. © wcities.com
MY NOTE: There's a new hotel in the tower, done in a kind of Op-Art style,
that is for those who like excitement. The floor to ceiling windows look right
out over the Falls, and the distance to the ground is vertiginous.
wcities
contact:
tel: 1.905.371.2679
fax: 1.905.475.2412
http://www.visiting-niagara-fall
s.com/chamshantemple.html
location:
4303 River Road
Niagara Falls ON L2E 3E8
7 Cham Shan Temple
OUR LOCAL EXPERT SAYS:
There are free guided tours during those hot
summer weekends from June to October.
DESCRIPTION: The Cham Shan Temple name means "Ten
Thousand Buddhas" and is a perfect site to take in all that the
Buddhist culture has to offer. Located just minutes from the
wonders of Niagara Falls this is a must to see as the seven
level Chinese temple offers a peaceful oasis for tourists and
locals alike. As this is a place of worship for members of the
Buddhist religion tourists are reminded to treat the temple with
respect. The temple is built of three wondrous acres of land that
await the interested tourist.
© NileGuide
Photo courtesy of Cham Shan
Temple- Ten Thousand
MY NOTE: This is such a bizarre thing to find on a main street
near the Falls. But it is a cool place to visit and a real change
from the other places you will visit here. The White Water Walk
is just across the street, so you can do both activities at one
stop.
9
Day 2 - continued...
contact:
tel: +1 905 358 3611 / +1 866
405 4629(Toll Free)
fax: +1 905 358 3613
http://www.imaxniagara.com/
location:
6170 Fallsview Boulevard
Niagara Falls ON L2G 7T8
8 Niagara Falls IMAX Theatre
DESCRIPTION: Apart from standing before them, there is no better way to
see the Falls than through the wonder of IMAX. Presented daily, Niagara:
Miracles, Myths and Magic is a thrilling ride into the roaring waters without
leaving your seat. The film by Academy-award winner Keith Merrill takes
you to the very beginnings some 12,000 years ago when the Falls were
first formed. The story moves on to the daredevils who have defied its
majesty. Accompanying the viewing is the Daredevil Adventure, featuring
props from the stunts. © wcities.com
wcities
10
Day 3 - Niagara On The Lake, Niagara Falls
(ON)
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Now it's time for some history, some retail therapy and some theatrical fun. A short drive from Niagara Falls will take you
to Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of the most historically important and well preserved towns in Canada, often called "Canada's prettiest
town". Old Fort George is a window into living history, recreating the days before the War of 1812. The Shaw Festival presents excellent
theatre, and the main street of this lovely town is lined with specialty shops that are irresistible. There's elegant dining at historic places
like The Charles Inn, and more casual dining at pubs like the Angel. Enjoy an authentic English high tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel.
Tour the Laura Secord Home or visit the Riverbend Art Gallery for a glimpse of some of Canada's most historic art pieces.
.
There are many fine hotels here, from the elegance of the Queen's Landing and the warmly inviting Harbour house, to the simplicity of
Apple Tree B&B.
.
Arrange ahead of time to secure tickets to one of the plays at the Shaw Festival. This season's The Ideal Husband" by Oscar Wilde,
is spectacular. Afterwards, enjoy a drink in the bar at the Prince of Wales, where many of the actors come to decompress after a
performance.
.
contact:
1 PRINCE OF WALES
tel: +1 905 468 3246
fax: +1 905 468 5521
http://www.vintage-hotels.com DESCRIPTION: This is Niagara-on-the-Lake's most luxurious
/niagara-on-the-lake/hotels/pri hotel, and it has it all: a central location across from the lovely
nce-of-wales.php
gardens of Simcoe Park; recreational facilities, including an
location:
6 Picton Street
Niagara on the Lake ON L0S
1J0
location:
263 Regent Street
Niagara-on-the-Lake ON L0S
1J0
indoor pool; a luxurious spa; lounges, bars, and restaurants;
and attractive, beautifully decorated rooms. It has a lively
atmosphere yet retains the elegance and charm of a Victorian
inn. Bathrooms have bidets, and most rooms have minibars. All
rooms are nonsmoking. © Frommer's
Hotels.com
2 Apple Tree Historic B&B
DESCRIPTION: Location.
This bed & breakfast is located in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Horseshoe Falls and Skylon Tower are local points of interest.
Another local attraction is Fallsview Indoor Waterpark.
Features.
A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Apple Tree Historic
B&B features a fireplace in the lobby. Guestrooms.
There are 3 guestrooms at Apple Tree Historic B&B.
Furnishings include fireplaces and desks. Bathrooms feature
jetted tubs. Wireless Internet access is complimentary.
Air-conditioned rooms also include irons/ironing boards.
Notifications:
Additional fees and deposits may be charged by the property
at time of service, check-in, or check-out.
Hotels.com
11
Day 3 - continued...
location:
155 Byron Street
Niagara on the Lake ON L0S
1J0
contact:
tel: +1 877 642 7275
(Reservations)
http://www.niagaraparks.com/
heritage/laurasecord.php
location:
29 Queenston Street
Niagara Falls ON L0S 1J0
3 QUEENS LANDING
DESCRIPTION: EXPERIENCE STATELY GEORGIAN STYLE
ELEGANCE AND GRACIOUS SERVICE IN A SPECTACULAR
WATERFRONT SETTING. QUEENS LANDING IS AN
IDEAL LOCATION FOR A ROMANTIC LEISURE GETAWAY
OR A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS MEETING.NATURAL
LIGHT POURS IN THE FLOOR TO CEILING WINDOWS.
THE SWEEPING STAIRCASE INVITES AN ENTRANCE
WORTHY OF SCARLETT O-HARA. MARBLE FLOORS AND
A STAINED GLASS CEILING DEFINE QUEENS LANDING AS
A MANSION WITH STYLE.IN TIARA DINING ROOM ENJOY A
PANORAMIC VIEW OF HISTORIC NIAGARA ON THE LAKE
HARBOUR. CHEF ANDREW DYMOND WILL DELIGHT YOU
WITH HIS ORIGINAL CUISINE CREATED FROM ORGANIC
INGREDIENTS GROWN ON LOCAL FARMS. COMPLEMENT
YOUR MEAL WITH AWARD WINNING WINES FROM THE
NIAGARA REGION OR THOUGHTFULLY SELECTED
VINTAGES FROM AROUND THE WORLD. FOR A LESS
FORMAL MEAL VISIT BACCHUS LOUNGE WHICH OFFERS
CASUAL DINING DAY AND NIGHT. AND IN THE SUMMER
ENJOY CLASSIC BARBECUE ON THE WATERFRONT
PATIO. QUEENS LANDING PROVIDES EXECUTIVE
QUALITY MEETING FACILITIES RANGING FROM OUR
MAGNIFICENT GRAND GEORGIAN BALLROOM TO MORE
THAN A DOZEN SMALLER ROOMS FOR BREAK OUTS
AND MORE INTIMATE GATHERINGS.OUR CONCIERGE
TEAM MEMBERS OF THE EXCLUSIVE LES CLEFS D-OR
SOCIETY ARE HIGHLY SKILLED PROFESSIONALS WHO
ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL
PERSONAL SERVICE TO OUR GUESTS.
Hotels.com
4 Laura Secord Homestead
DESCRIPTION: Home of Canadian heroine Laura Secord, who warned
the British of an impending American attack during the War of 1812, this
museum features genuine furnishings from the era. Costumed guides
relate the story of how Laura risked death in uncharted woods through
enemy lines to reach British command after overhearing an American plan
to ambush the British. © wcities.com
Photo courtesy of Laura
Secord Homestead
contact:
tel: 905/468-6614
www.parkscanada.ca
location:
5 Fort George National Historic Site
DESCRIPTION: The fort played a central role in the War of 1812: It was headquarters for the British
Army's Centre Division. The division was comprised of British regulars, local militia, Runchey's
12
Day 3 - continued...
Niagara-on-the-Lake ON
hours:
Apr 1-Oct 31 daily 10am-5pm
(open on weekends during
the rest of the year)
contact:
tel: 1-866-277-6677 or
905-468-4683
fax: 905-468-0366
http://www.harbourhousehote
l.c
location:
85 Melville St
Niagara-on-the-Lake ON L0S
1J0
corps of former slaves, and aboriginal forces. The fort was destroyed by American artillery fire in
May 1813. After the war it was partially rebuilt, but it was abandoned in 1828 and not reconstructed
until the 1930s. You can view the guardroom (with its hard plank beds), the officers' quarters, the
enlisted men's quarters, and the sentry posts. The self-guided tour includes interpretive films.
Those who believe in ghosts take note: The fort is one of Ontario's favorite "haunted" sites (ghosthunting tours are available throughout the summer and in October). © Frommer's
6 Harbour House, an Ontario's
Finest Inn
OUR LOCAL EXPERT SAYS:
ASk for a room on the river side - it will be quieter,
and the views are nice.
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inn has the comfort and warmth of a heritage property. 
Located just a short walk from the heart of Niagara-on-theLake, the thirty-one room Harbour House is a perfect home
base for exploring the pleasures of Niagara, from the wineries,
to the theatres, to the biking and walking trails along the
Niagara parkway.  Fort George is a short walk away.
           
Decorated in warm shades of Tuscan yellow, the lobby
has a cozy fireplace, overstuffed sofas and chairs, and
wireless internet access.  That same blend of
comfort and convenience is obvious in the rooms. 
There are Frette  robes in the closet and the
king sized beds have fluffy duvets and feather beds
layered on top of the mattresses, but the fireplace is
gas and the flames spring to life with the turn of a dial.
           
There is also high speed internet access in all of the rooms.
           
The Conservatory, where breakfast is served, is large
and cheery, and breakfast is a selection of warm and
cold dishes.  There's often a selection of good
Canadian cheeses, cold meat, and fresh fruit, as well as
a warm dish like warm blueberry French toast , home
Hotels.com
13
Day 3 - continued...
made jams and bread, muffins and cereal.  In
summer, guests can take their coffee out to the patio.
           
At four o'clock each day, there is a wine tasting, featuring a
different area winery.  The Harbour House is a sister
property to the lovingly restored Charles Inn, and guests can
arrange to have lunch or dinner there.  A complimentary
shuttle will take guests back and forth.
© NileGuide
MY NOTE: At four each afternoon, there's a complimentary
wine tasting, with snacks. Nice touch. And the breakfast is
really fresh and healthy. The hotel has arrangements with the
Charles Inn so you can make reservations to have dinner there.
14
Day 4 - Niagara Falls (ON)
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: This is the day to explore Wine Country. One of the best ways to see the area is by bike. There are several companies that
conduct guided bike tours that include visits and tastings at four or five different wineries, as well as lunch. Be sure to pick up a bottle
or two of the ones you particularly liked at the tastings. Many of these are wines that you can't buy anywhere else but at the cellar door.
Be sure to visit the large and well established wineries like Peller Estates and Jackson-Triggs, but don't neglect the smaller boutique
wineries that are making some of the best wine in the country - places like Daniel Lenko Winery and John Howard Cellars of Distinction.
contact:
tel: +1 905 562 7088 / +1 888
846 3526(Toll Free)
fax: +1 905 562 3071
http://www.vineland.com/inde
x/page/name/restaurant
location:
3620 Moyer Road
Vineland ON L0R 2C0
hours:
Mo to Su from 11:30 AM to
02:30 PM,Mo to Su from
02:30 PM to 04:00 PM,Mo to
Su from 05:00 PM to 09:00
PM
1 Vineland Estates Winery - Restaurant
DESCRIPTION: A magnificent view of the Vineland Estates vineyards graces almost every diner at
this memorable restaurant. Whether you're in the warmly appointed interior, or on the restaurant's
outdoor deck, you'll be as delighted with the view as you'll be with the food. Executive Chef Jan
Willem Stulp creates dishes using the freshest seasonal products from the area. Helpful staff can
help select one of many fine wines from the surrounding vineyard to accompany your meal. The
Vidal and the Riesling Icewines enhance just about any dessert. © wcities.com
MY NOTE: This is one of the iconic wineries of Niagara. There patio restaurant serves excellent
meals, and the views are lovely.
15
Niagara On The Lake Snapshot
Local Info
Niagara on the Lake is a small town in
the Niagara Region of Ontario, Canada.
It sits on the shore of Lake Ontario at the
mouth of the Niagara River. It is a frequent
destination daytrippers from Niagara Falls
and a destination in its own right.
© Wikitravel
Hotel Insights
Festival theatres. The town also has an
extensive network of B&Bs, which provides
an opportunity to mix with other tourists,
bookable through the NOTL B&B Assn
© Wikitravel
There are a number of fine hotels, including
several within walking distance of the Shaw
16
Niagara Falls (ON) Snapshot
Local Info
It's huge, it's noisy and it makes your heart
race.
Standing on the edge of Niagara Falls are
unique travel experiences awaiting you,
where you will be thrilled over and over
again when you venture on back to this
beautiful city. This hands down explains
why a visit to Niagara topples theTo See list
of world travelers. Deemed Often as one
the Seven Wonders of the World, Niagara
Falls has been attracting attention since
Father Louis Hennepin first published his
description of the Falls in 1678. By the time
the first Maid of the Mist was launched in
1846, Niagara was welcoming over 50,000
summer visitors. It is estimated that 13
million tourists visit Niagara Falls yearly.
Niagara Falls is something special as you
don't just get the one main attraction that is
Niagara Falls but you get three Falls in onethe Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side,
and the American and Bridal Veil Falls on
the U.S. side. Together they conduct water
from the four Upper Great Lakes into Lake
Ontario and then on out into the ocean.
Over 20% of the world's fresh water flows
over these Falls and is compressed through
the Niagara Gorge. The resulting power
and speed of 600,000 gallons of water
per second tearing through this conduit is
astounding.
Locals refer to them simply as The Falls,
and most people acknowledge that the
view from the Canadian side, as well as
the compelling array of attractions that are
clustered around the Canadian Horseshoe
Falls, provide the quintessential Falls
experience. In Niagara Falls its not just
about The Falls itself, it is all about the
whole package deal of bright lights and long
nights while in the city.
The rich and famous frequently flee to
Niagara Falls and always gain a warm
Canadian welcome. The likes of Royalty,
politicians, presidents, writers and movie
stars have all wander over the border to
see what all the hype is all about. Many
members of the Royal Family have come
to visit, such as King George VI, Princess
Margaret, Queen Elizabeth, and Princess
Diana, Prince William and Harry. Various
movies have also been filmed here, Marilyn
Monroe with herNiagara, and Christopher
Reeve inSuperman. Celebrities to visit
Niagara Falls include John Lennon and
Yoko Ono spent their honeymoon here,
Regis and Kelly and Brad Pitt.
A tourism playground is what many call
Niagara Falls and its surrounding areas.
With everything from wine tours to Clifton
Hill there really isn't anything short of funfilled activities to partake in for the whole
family. With lush vegetation and walking
trails throughout the Niagara Region,
Niagara Falls is a perfect spot to gain
some rest and relaxation you have been
waiting for all those days being cramped
up in an office. In 1885, the Niagara Parks
Commission was created to act as steward
for the green spaces in Niagara Falls and
the Niagara River corridor from Niagara
Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake. This area has
been kept as parkland and it is maintained
primarily by students of the Niagara Parks
School of Horticulture. The park-lands of
Niagara remain lush and green and provide
many with a sense of solitude around all
the hustle and bustle of Clifton Hill and the
tourists spots in Niagara Falls.
Over the years Niagara Falls continues
to prosper and expand. With Marineland,
The Fallsview Casino, The SkyWheel,
restaurants galore and much, much more
you really will succumb to the perfection
and growth that the city has mastered over
the years. The newest addition to Niagara
Falls is the$100 million Convention Centre.
With an abundance of shows and what not
to partake in at the convention centre this
just as to the wondrous list of adventures to
go on while in Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls brings wonder and
excitement to anyone and everyone who
visit this perfect tourist destination. It has
something for everyone- from the natural
wonder of the world to history lessons, arts
and theatre, attractions and walking trails
Niagara Falls is really the perfect spot to
gain insight into the Niagara Regions world
of tourism.
© NileGuide
History
The history of the Niagara Region is pretty
textbook. Some 12,000 years ago the first
settlers came to the Niagara Region to
witness the birth of The Falls. Way back
when the land was nothing but spruce and
tundra forest, a whole lot different of a look
then nowadays with its flashy lights and
filled up streets. The Clovis People were
amongst the first to inhabit this picturesque
place who were nomadic hunters that
most likely camped along the old Lake
Erie Shoreline. Through the years huntergatherers made their way here during the
Archaic Period approximately 9,000-3,000
years ago. Fish camps were set along the
rivers and lakes that cascaded the likes of
the Niagara Region.
During The Woodland Period which lasted
from 3,000-300 years ago The Iroquois
came to the area. When the Iroquois came
here they started to create small villages
and a political system was put in place
in these villages, which was rare at the
time. At the beginning of the 17th century
the European explorers and missionaries
arrived causing havoc of power.
Many great explorers made their way to the
New World, but never made it over to see
Niagara Falls. In 1615 Etienne Brule is said
to possibly be the first to behold Niagara
Falls. The Recollect missionary was said
to explore Ontario during this time. Just a
decade later the Jesuits arrived and Gabriel
Lalemant was the first to record the Iroquios
name for the river:"Onguiaahra", in laments
terms,"The Strait"."Niagara" is the simplified
original name.
In 1651 the Iroquois wiped out the Neutrals.
The fur-trade rivalry is what caused the
wipe out and until the American Revolution
the Iroquois somehow managed to almost
keep white settlers out of the Niagara
Region.
Louis Hennepin published"Nouvelle
Decouverte" which speaks of The Falls.
After visiting The Falls in 1678 he fell in
love with the Wonder of the World. He left
an impression on the area as he believed
The Falls to be a large masterpiece,
estimating it at 183 metres high, more than
3 times what is actually is.
The war of 1812 broke out in the area and
after the war the area was able to in time
rebuild itself. A part of the country was
fiercely fought over by British and American
soldiers in the War of 1812, where history
has left its mark. Museums, preserved
forts, and the home of Canada's heroine,
Laura Secord, are found here. This is
also the home of Canada's wine growing
region. Today there are around 80 wineries
in the area that continually persevere the
greenery of Niagara.
17
Niagara Falls (ON) Snapshot continued
The first ferry service across the lower river
began in the 1820's showcasing to the
world that Niagara was continually building
itself back up. By 1827 paved roads were
created and had been built up from the ferry
landing to the top of the bank. The Clifton
hotel was built in this area and this area is
now Clifton Hill, a place with many highrises and activities for all to partake in.
Over the last 150 years, daring souls have
gone over the Falls by the dozens in every
contraption possible. Some have died in the
attempt; others like 63-year-old widowed
schoolteacher Annie Taylor, the first person
to survive a plunge over the Falls in a
barrel, made history and gained fame.
In 1829 a major investment was created
in the region, The Welland Canal, which
still has cargo boats and yachts come
through its walls daily. In 1841 the first
Upper Canada railroad open its rails and
later on in 1854 served the township of
Niagara Falls with steam engines. The
1820's was a great time for the Niagara
Region as tourism began to boom and still
to this day Niagara Falls is known as a
perfect tourist destination for all. After World
War 1 attractions, accommodations and
restaurants galore began to develop and
now over 13 million tourists visit Niagara
Falls yearly. Niagara Falls and surrounding
areas boast an immense amount of history.
That history is showcased through the
various adventures one can venture off in
while in this perfect region.
© NileGuide
Hotel Insights
Did you know... That there are more
than 12,000 hotel and motel rooms in the
Niagara Region? And that this number is
surpassed in Canada only by Toronto and
Vancouver?
Not bad for an area that has some 200,000
people at the most, with the city of Niagara
Falls, Ontario, weighing in at about 80,000.
But, of course, that doesn't take into
account the 14-18 million visitors who
flock to the region each year from every
conceivable part of the world.
Suffice it to say that you won't go begging
for a room when you head down to the Falls
—be it for a honeymoon, a long-awaited
family vacation, or a crucial business
trip. Better still, the choice and type of
room is just as varied as the number,
with luxury hotels lined up alongside
neon-glitter motels, and Niagara-on-theLake European-style B&B's tucked away
in the same countryside as full service
campgrounds.
Scrambling for a view Of course, for the
true Falls aficionado, nothing but the best
will do—and that means getting as close
to their object of desire as possible. That,
in turn, means a room at one of the high
rise deluxe hotels between Clifton Hill and
the Horseshoe Falls. Starting at the top of
the hill, you'll find the Brock Plaza and the
Skyline Foxhead, often referred to as the
Grand Old Lady and her Much Younger
Sister. The Brock is redolent with original
1920's Art Deco furniture, chandeliers and
marble; the Skyline is sleek and built with a
wall of glass to enhance the view.
Along the ridge above Queen Victoria Park
are a number of other well-known hotels
including Quality Inn Fallsview, Sheraton
Fallsview Hotel& Conference Centre,
Renaissance Fallsview, and Days Inn
Fallsview District. Any of these will make a
guest feel right at home amid the mist and
the roar.
Those who want to sleep near the Falls
without paying for a fancy hotel can opt for
Travelodge Clifton Hill, formerly known as
the Honeymoon City Motel and on the site
of the first motel ever built in the city. What
better shrine for the Honeymoon Capital of
the World? Claiming the title of closest inn
to the Falls is Michael's Inn, one block north
of Casino Niagara and featuring various
theme rooms for the more imaginative
guests!
Lundy's Lane: A motel battleground
Starting out close to the Niagara River
and stretching westward into the Niagara
Region countryside, this road is famous
for two things: as the site of the Battle
of Lundy's Lane during the War of
1812(commemorated in the Lundy's Lane
Historical Museum); and as a present day
corridor for many of the motels in the area.
Here you'll find both the chains in the form
of Days Inn, Econo Lodge and Travelodge
Bonaventure, and such stand-alones as
the Gardens Motel with its country setting,
and Voyageur Inn, featuring home cooked
meals and a fireplace in the lobby area.
If your idea of accommodations calls for
a little more privacy and a little less noise
from cars backing up to doors, then you've
got to get on the reservation hotline for
one of the Niagara Region's incredibly
varied bed& breakfasts. There are B&B's
scattered throughout the countryside and
vineyards from Fort Erie to the south to St.
Catharines to the north. These include a
few in the Falls area itself, such as Niagara
Inn Bed and Breakfast, Cooper's Bed and
Breakfast, and The New Hadden Hall along
the Niagara River.
But the absolute mecca for B&B's has to be
the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, north of
the Falls and home to the world-renowned
Shaw Festival. Here, amid turn-of-the-20th
century homes and boutiques that seem
untouched by the passage of time, you'll
find everything from the Farmhouse Bed&
Breakfast with its adjacent Ice Creamery&
Market to the Victorian Kiely Inn and
Blairpen House Country Inn, with an
historical library and balconies off the
rooms.
Getting the massage If it's creature
comforts you're wanting, check out Niagaraon-the-Lake's Pillar and Post Inn or Prince
of Wales Hotel.
Okay, so you're more the hardy outdoors
type who likes to wake up to the stars
overhead and the crunch of leaves
underfoot. Well, you're in luck. The
Niagara region has some 30 full-service
campgrounds in all—from the very basic
pitch-your-tent variety to sites offering twobedroom cabins, hot-and-cold running
water and electricity for that TV set.
There's Campark Resorts for camping right
in the middle of the city; King Waldorf's,
located on the banks of the Welland River
just south of Marineland; Scott's Tent&
Trailer Park with game room and swimming
pool; and Niagara RV Rentals with its own
boat launch.
From plush hotel to historic inn, gaudy
motel to Victorian B&B, basic tenting to
comfortable RV-ing—it's all here near the
roar of the Falls!
Please Note: Room rates and other costs
fluctuate greatly depending on the time of
year. So please check all rates to make
sure you're not in for a surprise when you
arrive.
©
Restaurants Insights
Award winners and more From award
winner to your basic family eatery, chain to
18
Niagara Falls (ON) Snapshot continued
mom-and-pop operation, big theme or just
big portions, with a view or hole in the wall,
Niagara Falls, Ontario, has a restaurant to
suit your taste and wallet.
If money is no object, treat yourself to
a meal prepared by an award winning
restaurant team. Michael Heeb, executive
chef of Mulberry's Dining Room in the
Renaissance Fallsview Hotel, took home
the silver medal at the World Culinary
Olympics in Germany, competing grill to grill
with chefs from around the globe. Now he's
sharing those dishes with both hotel guests
and anyone else who cares to have a taste.
On top of Clifton Hill sits the Beef Baron
Restaurant, an impressive joint that has
won Family Restaurant of the Year honors
three times. Go west to the nearby town of
Jordan where you will find On the Twenty
Restaurant, part of the Inn on the Twenty
complex. The decor includes work by local
artists and the menu features local produce
and from-scratch entrees. It's no wonder
it is a Distinguished Restaurant of North
America award winner.
For the good of the family If you are
traveling with the family or simply trying
to pinch a few pennies, there's always
the search for places where you can take
yourself or the crew for good grub at an
affordable price. Niagara Falls has plenty,
including Victoria Park Restaurant(where
Princess Di and the kids ate during their
visit), La Fiesta Fish& Chips(English-style),
and the Village Restaurant, located in the
village of Chippawa, just minutes from
Marineland. The Flying Saucer Restaurant
is perfect for the family on a budget with its
99-cent breakfast, while Betty's Restaurant
is the place to go for the home-cooked meal
away from home.
There are other family eateries that will
force you to dig a little deeper into your
pockets. But what's a tourist destination
without one or two theme restaurants,
right? Get up close and personal with your
favourite celebrity at the Hard Rock Cafe or
Planet Hollywood, both located right in the
heart of the action next to Casino Niagara.
Both spots feature rock music and movie
photographs, clothing and other cultural
artifacts. But be ready to wait in long lines
for the privilege of these close encounters
of the starry kind. Oh yes, the food's okay,
too.
Seal of authenticity For a break from
all-you-can-eat buffets, chain and theme
restaurants, try an authentic meal from a
varied selection of ethnic cuisines. The chef
at Tandoor Hut serves up traditional home
cooked Indian food with recipes dating
back generations. Yukiguni Japanese
Restaurant& Sushi Bar has been rated as
having some of the best sushi in Southern
Ontario—and that's really saying a lot with
all the sushi bars in Toronto. And when that
honeymoon hits your eye...you've got to go
Italian. Try Delduca's for that avant garde
yet personal feel. Or Mama Leone, winner
of the coveted Niagara's Best Fine Dining
Award.
One of the first things many tourists do after
arriving at their vacation destination is to
ask the hotel concierge or B&B host where
they can find the best restaurants. Truth
is, those restaurants are often under your
very nose—or at least in the place where
you rest your weary head. For example,
those staying at the Renaissance Fallsview
Hotel can take advantage of its 18th floor
Rooftop Fallsview Dining Room, serving
ana la carte dinner nightly with delights
such as Blackened Swordfish and PanRoasted Steelhead Trout.
B&Bs break out the silver Out in the
countryside, many bed and breakfast
inns are serving more than the traditional
sunrise feast. Inside Niagara-on-theLake's Pillar and Post Inn can be found
the Cannery and Carriages Dining Rooms,
a series of three lovely areas to enjoy
breakfast, lunch and dinner. Also situated in
the prettiest town in Canada is the elegant
Escabeche restaurant, featuring classic
French cuisine and ambience inside the
Victorian-style Prince of Wales Hotel.
A number of restaurants come not only
with good food but also with a spectacular
view as part of the price of admission.
And yes, you do pay a little extra for the
privilege. One of the most amazing is the
Revolving Dining Room situated at the top
of the Skylon Tower, 775 feet above the
Niagara River gorge. As the name implies,
this restaurant brings a view of the Falls to
your seat, revolving once every hour.
Not quite so heady, La Doria Restaurant,
located within Days Inn North of The Falls,
offers a view of the Niagara Gorge in a
garden-like setting. Queenston Heights
Restaurant, inside the lovely Queenston
Heights Park, which is home to Brock's
Monument and the Floral Clock, overlooks
the Niagara River.
Dinner and...on with the show
Entertainment with your dinner helps the
food go down and cleanses the palate for
the next round. Niagara Falls has its share
of such offerings, including the Niagara
Grand Dinner Theatre, where a witty
romantic comedy is performed after your
grand meal. At Yuk Yuk's Comedy Club,
the rule of the house is to chew with your
mouth open. Actually, you won't have a
choice when you are laughing aloud as the
best in upcoming stand-up comics do their
thing. The dinner menu features everything
from sirloin to finger foods.
And then there's the unforgettably hilarious
Oh Canada Eh?! dinner show. Recently
celebrating its 1,500th performance, this
musical celebration and gentle send-up
of all things Canadian has won numerous
awards. And there's a delicious five-course
meal to boot, served by wait staff dressed
as characters from the show.
If the meal is over and the night's still
young, enjoy a cocktail or two at one of
the local clubs. There are a number of
bars both in the downtown area and along
Lundy's Lane Road, including Kelsey's
Neighborhood Bar& Grill and 007 Bar
Restaurant, claiming the best martinis in
town—shaken not stirred.
Whether you are a high roller or just like
to watch others gamble, Casino Niagara's
Marilyn's Lounge, named in honor of none
other than La Monroe, and Twenty One
Club are sure bets to help end your evening
on a high note.
©
Nightlife Insights
Been there, done that"Okay, we've seen
the Falls—now what do we do?" is an alltoo-familiar refrain for visitors to the area,
especially among younger members of the
family. And non-honeymooners!
Well, truth is the Falls, awesome and
inspiring as they are and definitely
the single most-important attraction,
aren't a one-trick pony by a long shot.
From historical museums to fun-house
mausoleums, wine tastings to winery tours,
golf courses to freshwater fishing, botanical
gardens to world-class theater, the Niagara
Region is rich with attractions that draw
people back time and again.
19
Niagara Falls (ON) Snapshot continued
Heck, even saying you've"seen the Falls"
doesn't really do justice to the number of
ways you can look at them. Sure, you can
stand on the edge and stare down or take
the Falls Incline Railway and gaze across
at them from Table Rock. But what about a
Journey Behind The Falls for a wet thrill of
a lifetime? Or a trip on the Maid of the Mist
to the rocky base of the mighty cataracts?
Better yet, why not a helicopter ride over
the Falls? And what about the Falls at night
when they're all lit up? Or in the winter
during the spectacular Festival of Lights?
Of parks and aero cars Surrounding the
Falls for miles in each direction along the
Niagara River lie parks and recreational
trails administered by the Niagara Parks
Commission. You'll find such delights as the
Niagara Parks Greenhouse, the Butterfly
Conservatory with more than 3,000 flying
around at any one time, Queenston Heights
Park with its Brock monument and Floral
Clock, the Great Gorge Adventure, and
the Niagara Spanish Aero Car, a marvel of
engineering as it travels over the Whirlpool
Rapids.
Golf fanatics can whack the little white ball
around at the 18-hole Whirlpool Course or
the 9-hole Oak Hall Course—with the Falls
roaring their approval(or misgivings)! Sports
of a different kind gather at the Casino
Niagara to wager on that lucky spin of the
wheel, flip of the card, or toss of the dice.
It's only appropriate that Clifton Hill right
next to the Casino is lined with"dare
you to walk through" horror chambers
such as Screamers Haunted House and
NIGHTMARES Fear Factory. Once you
have joined the long line of those who
have chickened out before the last mummy
rushes out of the wall, you can relax a bit at
Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Museum, Louis
Tussaud's Waxworks, and the Guinness
World Of Records Museum.
And no vacation in Niagara Falls would be
complete without a trip to the Daredevil Hall
of Fame and The Daredevil Adventure at
the IMAX Theatre. For kids and the young
at heart, there's the thrill of Adventure
Dome, Ride Niagara: The Ultimate Thrill,
and Niagara Go-Karts& Mini-Putt.
Making wine while snow swirls After a
night on Clifton Hill and environs, you might
be more than ready to escape into the
countryside where peace reigns supreme
and all you can hear is the wind soughing
through the vineyards. The Niagara
region is wine-making country with about
40 wineries vying for international gold
medals and tourist visits. Some 15 of these
wineries lie between Niagara Falls and
Niagara-on-the-Lake, and each offers tours
and tastings. And not just in the summer
or fall either. This is also ice-wine making
country with wineries such as Hillebrand
Estates, Inniskillin, and Strewn producing
the highly-valued dessert wine while the
snow swirls in the vineyards.
After a tour and some tastings of the
winemaker's art, you're ready for a bit of
history and culture, Niagara-style. First
stop is the Laura Secord Homestead in
Queenston, commemorating one of the
heroines of the War of 1812. Then, it's
on to the Mackenzie Heritage Printery
Museum, featuring the oldest printing press
in Canada, and McFarland House, built in
1800 and with rare furnishings from that
period. Finally, you're in Niagara-on-theLake itself, an enclave of Victorian buildings
where time seems to have stood still. Here,
you can check out the Doug Forsythe
Gallery, Niagara Pump house Visual Art
Center, and Historic Fort George complete
with Ghost Tours.
Skilled actors, trained whales And, of
course, the Shaw Festival. From April to
November, this troupe of world-class actors
brings to life the world of George Bernard
Shaw and his contemporaries, thrilling
audiences from around the globe. True
theatre-lovers will want to buy something at
the Shaw Festival Shops, take part in the
Shaw Festival Village Fair and Fete and
Shaw Guild Arts& Crafts Show, and enroll
in one of the Shaw Seminars.
Have we forgotten anything? Well, there's
Marineland, where you can pet a killer
whale or watch the graceful movements of
dolphins from an underwater observation
area. And Historic Fort Erie, where
volunteers in period costumes recreate
the War of 1812. And the Steve Bauer
Bike Tours, where you can check out
more wineries and historical sites during a
leisurely bike ride. And, for the horse-racing
fan, the Fort Erie Slots& Racetrack, live and
simulcast racing in a brand-new$25 million
facility.
There you have it, then. Some of the
things you can do in the Niagara Region
without even looking at the Falls! But a
nod in that direction won't hurt—to keep
those particular gods roaring for as long as
possible!
©
Things to Do Insights
The reason you made the trip Of course,
an up-close and personal view of the
Falls is the main reason for making this
trip. And there are plenty of ways to tour
those Thundering Waters, including a
Journey Behind The Falls that brings you
to the base of the Horseshoe Falls, the
Maid of the Mist boat ride, and a Niagara
Helicopters tour from above. Beyond
the Falls, the Niagara Spanish Aero Car
suspends you high above the Whirlpool
Rapids in a cable car while the Great Gorge
Adventure takes you on a walking tour
along the narrowest point of the Niagara
River.
Speaking of walking tours, before and after
the Falls, the Niagara River is lined with a
series of parks and walking trails ranging
from Fort Erie to the south all the way to
Niagara-on-the-Lake to the north. Taking
the Niagara River Recreation Trail, on foot
or on bike, you can make your way up what
has been called the prettiest Sunday drive
in the world—except no cars allowed!
Start with a visit to Dufferin Islands Park,
with interlaced walking paths and bridges,
and the Niagara Parks Greenhouse,
featuring a gift shop and floral displays.
Then move on the Table Rock area and
Queen Victoria Park with its celebrated rock
and rose gardens.
Definitely for the birds From there, it's
around the Whirlpool Rapids and the edge
of the Whirlpool Golf Course to the Niagara
Glen Nature Areas. Here, you'll find the
Feather in the Glen Country Store, a bird
lover's toy shop, and guided nature walks in
season.
A little further up and you're into what
some consider the most spectacular areas
of the Niagara Parks zone: the Butterfly
Conservatory with its ever-changing display
of fluttering beauty, and the 100-acre
Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, featuring
herb, floral, and rock gardens and even a
School of Horticulture whose students tend
the gardens.
On the other side of Ontario Hydro's
generating stations, you'll find Queenston
Heights Park, home of Brock's Monument,
20
Niagara Falls (ON) Snapshot continued
a tribute to the British general who lost his
life trying to re-capture Queenston during
the War of 1812, and the Floral Clock,
featuring a design with upwards of 16,000
carpet bedding plants. Queenston also
marks the starting point for the Steve Bauer
Bike Tours, with trips down scenic back
roads past wineries, orchards, and Victorian
homes.
Get that fortified feeling Several historic
forts are located in the Niagara Falls region,
including Historic Fort Erie at the south
end and Historic Fort George at the north.
Fort Erie, an important military post during
the War of 1812, features a guided tour
including battle re-enactments. Fort George
offers a tour with guides dressed in period
clothing and also includes re-creations of
key battles during the war. A special treat
are Ghost Tours of Fort George, a candlelit
journey to the other side during which
guides tell of real life experiences with the
spirits of people dating back to 1812. It's all
in fun, of course, but don't be surprised if
you find yourself sleeping with the light on
that night!
Historically-minded tourists who've had
their appetites whetted by the forts can
complete their education with a tour of the
numerous historical museums in the area,
including the Niagara Historical Society and
Museum, Willoughby Historical Museum,
The Welland Historical Museum, and Fort
Erie Historical Museum.
The Niagara Falls Heritage Week, held
in February, celebrates 200 years and
more of local history with exhibits and other
festivities. Participants include Lundy's
Lane Historical Museum, Laura Secord
Homestead, and Mackenzie Heritage
Printery Museum.
Museums with an edge If you find
museum exhibits a touch boring, maybe
you should try a whirlwind tour of Clifton
Hill's special brand of bizarre museum
madness. The Guinness World Of Records
Museum stands as a 21st century version
of a freak show with exhibits featuring
the world's tallest man, shortest woman,
longest fingernails, etc. Ripley's Believe It
Or Not! Museum features wacky exhibits
and interactive displays of work inspired by
Robert Ripley.
Would you like to rub elbows with the stars?
Movieland Museum of Stars includes the
wax form of Cher, Jim Carrey and several
other celebrity icons. Louis Tussaud's
Waxworks lets you touch your favourite
celebrity or hero—or at least their waxed
identical twins. Railroad history fans can
get a closer look at a historic locomotive at
the Fort Erie Railroad Museum while sports
buff get to see the entire history of lacrosse
at the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame and
Museum.
No sour grapes here Ontario produces
80% of wine in Canada with about 15 of
those wineries and vineyards located in
the countryside between Niagara Falls
and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara Wine
Tours International takes visitors via
bicycle or van, on guided or solo tours of
various areas in the wine region. Many
wineries offer tours of their vineyards and
wine tastings, including Inniskillin Wines,
Chateau des Charmes and Reif Estate
Winery.
Hillebrand Estates Winery teaches the art
of wine tasting with lessons on technique,
in addition to a tour of the property. The
pièce de résistance is the Niagara Grape
and Wine Festival, held each fall. Celebrate
the harvest of the grape with a 10-day gala,
including live concerts and fine cuisine. For
the truly brave, come back in the dead of
winter to take part in the numerous ice-wine
tours and tastings!
If your feet are getting sore and the
temperature is rising, inside and out, take
advantage of one of Niagara Falls' many
tour companies for an air-conditioned ride
in a comfortable bus. Companies such as
Niagara Falls Scenic Tours and Double
Deck Tours Ltd will whisk you away to
the major attractions both in the city and
surrounding areas, accompanied by your
own narrator or interpreter.
American Eagle(+1 800 433 7300/ http://
www.americanair.com)
Continental(+1 800 525 0280/ http://
www.continental.com)
Conair/Delta Connection(+1 800 221 1212/
http://www.comair.com/home)
Independence Air(+1 800 FLY FLYI/ http://
www.flyi.com/)
Jet Blue(+1 800 538 2583/ http://
www.jetblue.com/)
Northwest(+1 800 225 2525/ http://
www.nwa.com)
Prior Aviation(+1 800 621 2923/ http://
www.prioraviation.com)
Southwest(+1 800 435 9792/ http://
www.southwest.com/)
United(+1 800 241 6522/ http://
www.ual.com)
United Express(+1 800 241 6522/ http://
www.ual.com)
US Airways(+1 800 428 4322/ http://
www.usairways.com)
US Airways Express(+1 800 428 4322/
http://www.usairways.com)
Shuttles, taxis, limousines, and other
transportation services are readily available
at Toronto Pearson Airport.
Buffalo Niagara International Airport(BNIA)
(+1 716 630 6000/ 4200 Genesee
Street, Cheektowaga NY 14225http://
www.nfta.com) contains 26 terminals that
house 13 airlines.
Air Tran Airways(+1 800 247 8726/ http://
www.airtran.com/)
Whichever tour you choose, you can be
sure there'll be plenty to see and admire,
and plenty of memories to bring back home.
©
American Eagle(+1 800 433 7300/ http://
www.americanair.com)
Travel Tips
Conair/Delta Connection(+1 800 221 1212/
http://www.comair.com/home)
Getting There:
By Air: Toronto Pearson International
Airport(+1 416 776 3000/http://www.torontoyyz.com/) has three terminals with a total
of 82 air carriers flying an average of 25
million passengers annually. Some of the
airlines provided are as follows:
Air Tran Airways(+1 800 247 8726/ http://
www.airtran.com/)
Continental(+1 800 525 0280/ http://
www.continental.com)
Independence Air(+1 800 FLY FLYI/ http://
www.flyi.com/)
Jet Blue(+1 800 538 2583/ http://
www.jetblue.com/)
Northwest(+1 800 225 2525/ http://
www.nwa.com)
Prior Aviation(+1 800 621 2923/ http://
www.prioraviation.com)
21
Niagara Falls (ON) Snapshot continued
Southwest(+1 800 435 9792/ http://
www.southwest.com/)
United(+1 800 241 6522/ http://
www.ual.com)
United Express(+1 800 241 6522/ http://
www.ual.com)
US Airways(+1 800 428 4322/ http://
www.usairways.com)
US Airways Express(+1 800 428 4322/
http://www.usairways.com)
There are numerous shuttles parked
outside BNIA, most of which provided
by nearby hotels, touring companies,
and independently owned transportation
enterprises.
Taxi Services- all metered per mile and
available near the entrance of BNIA.
Airport Taxi(+1 716 633 8294/ http://
www.buffaloairporttaxi.com/)
Amherst Taxi(+1 716 875 1900/ http://
www.amherst-taxi.com/)
Buffalo Taxi Cab(+1 888 822 3030/ http://
www.buffalotaxicab.com/)
5-0 Taxi(+1 905 358 3232/ http://
www.5-0taxi.com/)
Rental Car companies include:
Alamo(+1 716 631 2044/ http://
www.alamo.com)
Avis(+1 716 631 2044/ http://www.avis.com)
Budget(+1 716 632 6400/ http://
www.budget.com)
Enterprise(+1 716 565 0002/ http://
www.enterprise.com)
Hertz(+1 716 632 4783/ http://
www.hertz.com)
National(+1 501 376 7221/ http://
www.nationalcar.com)
Limousines:
Magic Mist Limo(+1 716 284 7040/http://
www.magicmistlimo.com)
For further service to Niagara Falls,
consider Niagara Falls International
Airport(+1 716 297 4494/ http://
www.nfta.com/).
By Train:
GO Transit(1 888 GET ON GO/ http://
www.gotransit.com) provides train and bus
services. In the Toronto area, there are
various stations including 1456 Bloor St.
W., 0 Manitoba Road, and Yonge Street
and Finch Avenue. Operating Hours are
4:15a to 7p Monday through Friday, and
subject to change. Closed weekends&
holidays.
By Bus:
GO Transit(1 888 GET ON GO/ http://
www.gotransit.com) provides train and bus
services. In the Toronto area, there are
various stations including 1456 Bloor St W.,
0 Manitoba Road, and Yonge Street and
Finch Avenue. Operating Hours are 4:15a
to 7p Monday through Friday, and subject to
change. Closed weekends& holidays.
By Car:
From the west, take 405 east to 18F north.
From the South, take the QEW north.
Getting Around:
GO Transit(1 888 GET ON GO/ http://
www.gotransit.com)
Mississauga Transit(905 896 5000/http://
www.mississauga.ca/portal/residents/
publictransit)
female schoolteacher.
3. Sad Fact: Jesse Sharpe, a 28 year old
from Tennessee, went over Niagara Falls
in a kayak. Robert Overacker, a 39 year
old from California, used a jet ski to go over
Niagara Falls. Neither of them survived.
4. High wire tightrope acts used to be
performed across the river. The best known
high wire walker was"Blondin" who once
actually carried his manager across on his
back, stopping midway to rest!
5. Amazing fact: Twenty percent of the
world's fresh water lies in the Great Lakes,
and most flows
over Niagara Falls.
6. Niagara Falls is home to the world's
largest glass-enclosed butterfly
conservatory. More than 2,000 species of
butterflies call this tropical setting home.
7. The Niagara River is not a river; it is a
strait.
8. Marilyn Monroe stayed at the Brock
Plaza Niagara Falls, now called the Crowne
Plaza, while filming the movie"Niagara" in
1953.(If you wander through the Crowne
Plaza Hotel lobby you will find more
pictures with other fun facts about Niagara
Falls.)
9."Niagara" is the only Marilyn Monroe film
in which her character dies.
Pacific Western Airport
Express(1 800 387 6787/ http://
www.torontoairportexpress.com/) provides
regular public transit service to and from
Toronto Pearson Airport and around the city
of Toronto.
©
10. Fish swim over the falls all the time, and
90% of them survive. In fact,a tourist was
hit by a salmon while walking on the Cave
of the Winds boardwalk. He was not hurt
but was able to take the fish home with him
as a memento.
Fun Facts
11. The amount of water going over the falls
could fill up 50 Olympic sized swimming
pools in one minute
1. Interesting fact: Almost 1/3 of the
Canadian Falls lies within US Territory.
2. Weird fact: The first person to go over the
Falls in a barrel and survive was a 63 year
old
12. The world's first railroad suspension
bridge was erected over the Niagara River
in 1848.
© NileGuide
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