Autumn is calling, and what better time to rest and rejuvenate before the holiday rush? Explore the very best fall experiences and activities in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Whether you visit one of the outstanding local wineries or take a hike on one of the many beautiful trails, Niagara offers a perfect blend of leisure, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. At the end of the day, refuel and recharge with fantastic food and drinks at one of our fine dining establishments! Booking your perfect fall getaway has never been easier than with Vintage Hotels.
Discover Niagara’s Wine Country
It’s harvest season at Niagara’s top wineries, and there’s plenty to sip on and savour this year. Pay a visit to one of the top-tier vineyards in the area or hop on our Wine Trolley Tour for a sampling of several regional wines!
For a personalized tasting with a touch of fall fun, check out a wine tour at Hare Wine Co. where you’ll sample three of their premium wines and charcuterie. Alternatively, enjoy hand-made, locally produced chocolate and wine at Château des Charmes. Finally, if you’re looking for a memorable fall tour through stunning vineyards with spectacular views of Lake Ontario, check out Cave Spring Vineyard in Beamsville, just 40 minutes from Niagara-on-the-Lake. There, you can sip on their premium wines while learning about the winemaking process.
Take Part in Coffee Tastings
Fall in Niagara-on-the-Lake isn’t just about wine! Coffee lovers have something special to look forward to as well. Tucked slightly off the town’s main tourist trail, Junction Coffee Bar has become a beloved gathering place for locals. While their menu of hot and cold drinks and fresh baked goods is always tempting, Junction is best known for its coffee tasting flights. You’ll sample four handcrafted specialty drinks, each with its own creative twist. The flavours change seasonally, making fall the perfect time to try autumn-inspired beverages.
Explore Historical Sites Like Fort George
Fall is an ideal time to explore Fort George, as the colourful scenery provides a stunning backdrop for your historic adventure. This well-preserved military fortification, dating back to the War of 1812, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with its exhibits and reenactments. As you wander through the fort’s historic grounds, you’ll experience firsthand the significance of this site and the daily life of soldiers.
Stroll Through Autumn’s Splendour
Image courtesy of The Canadian Encyclopedia
The Niagara Region is an avid hiker’s dream destination! Take in the fall colours and rugged beauty of the Bruce Trail, which follows the Niagara Escarpment from Queenston all the way up to Tobermory (over 900 kilometres!). Short Hills Provincial Park is another great option for hiking, with seven trails of varying difficulty to choose from, so people of all abilities can enjoy a stroll through its rich autumn landscape. Don’t miss the chance to visit the magnificent Swayze Falls via the Paleozoic Path, which is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it ideal for afternoon walks with the family.
Visit Local Farms and Orchards
Autumn in Niagara-on-the-Lake is synonymous with bountiful harvests, making it the perfect time to explore local pumpkin patches, farms, and orchards. Stroll through charming apple orchards, pick your own pumpkins, and enjoy the crisp fall air as you discover the region’s agricultural treasures. Local farms offer seasonal produce and festive events for everyone, providing a hands-on experience with the harvest season. Whether you’re sampling freshly made cider or selecting the perfect apples for a homemade pie, visiting these farms is essential to exploring Niagara-on-the-Lake’s fall charm.
Attend the Shaw Festival
Image courtesy of Peter Andrew Lusztyk
Fall is a fantastic time to attend the renowned Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake, where the vibrant cultural scene comes alive with world-class theatrical performances. Each autumn, this festival celebrates the works of George Bernard Shaw and other playwrights of his era with a series of captivating plays and musicals. The crisp fall weather enhances the experience, making it the perfect time to enjoy an evening of live theatre in one of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s historic venues.
Whether you’re a theatre aficionado or a casual attendee looking for unique things to do this fall, the Shaw Festival offers a rich cultural experience that perfectly complements the autumn atmosphere of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Spend a Day Shopping
Image courtesy of Destination Ontario
During your fall getaway, make time for shopping. Queen Street in Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake is lined with boutique shops, galleries, and specialty stores that make browsing an experience in itself. In the fall, the streets are framed with vibrant foliage, adding a cozy, picturesque backdrop to your stroll.
You’ll discover everything from handcrafted jewelry and artisanal home décor to gourmet food products, Canadian-made clothing, and, of course, bottles of Niagara’s famous Icewine to take home.
Indulge in Fine Dining
Savour the flavours of fall at one of our top-rated restaurants right in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake! For a special night out, visit our Tiara Restaurant at Queen’s Landing, where elegant, farm-to-table cuisine and five-star service are king. Indulge with our classic steak and potato dish or try something new with our house made saffron linguini! Meanwhile, elevated pub fare is the name of the game at Vintages Wine Bar & Lounge, located at Pillar and Post. We serve up pub staples like fish and chips alongside new favourites like our Pillar Smash Burger.
Finally, for a truly unique experience, enjoy afternoon tea at The Drawing Room in the Prince of Wales hotel. You’ll love our selection of premium teas and regional wines, along with delectable house-made pastries and artisan cheeses. It’s an old-world classic with a brand-new twist!
Take in the Fall Season with a Stay at Vintage Hotels
With so much to see and do in Niagara-on-the-Lake in the fall, it’s easy to create a weekend getaway that will relax and inspire you as we head into the holidays. With seasonal packages such as our Retreat to Wine Country offer, there’s never been a better time to stay with us. Contact us today to learn more about our seasonal offers and plan your weekend fall getaway with us!