As one of Niagara’s premier hospitality chains, we’re often asked when to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake, and the answer is…it depends on what you love to do! Thankfully, there’s never a bad time to visit, because there’s always something happening in our amazing town. We’ve rounded up just a few of our favourite activities for each season to give you a preview of all the fun and relaxation available year-round in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Spring
If you want to celebrate the crisp spring air and warm sunshine after a long winter, springtime is the best time to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Spot the Cherry Blossoms
The first sure sign of spring is also a local favourite: cherry blossoms! Take a walk through Old Town or The Gardens at Pillar and Post and spot the pink, lilac, and white blossoms as they come into bloom, for a picturesque afternoon stroll.
Zoom Through Niagara-on-the-Lake
Photo courtesy of Zoom Leisure Bikes
Nothing says spring like cycling! Check out Zoom Leisure Bikes for sturdy, comfortable bike rentals that allow you to go the extra mile on Niagara’s many bike trails. They also offer biking wine tours in the springtime so you can reward yourself with a tall glass of wine after your ride.
Summer
If you’d like to greet the summer sun with equal parts relaxation and adventure, summertime is prime time for a getaway to Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Hop Aboard a Boat in Niagara Falls
Experience the natural wonder of Niagara Falls for a breathtaking daytrip you’ll never forget! Check out the many Niagara adventure tours, including the famous boat ride to the falls, exploring the cave-like tunnels on Journey Behind the Falls, and incredible photo ops along the Niagara Parkway including the whirlpool, Floral Clock, and much more. It’s not to be missed on your visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake!
Ride a Wine Trolley
Summer is the perfect time to hop onboard our San Francisco-style trolley for our Signature Wine Trolley Tour! This four-hour tour is available to guests of any Vintage Hotel property and offers fantastic value. On the tour, sample sublime wines from four of Niagara’s finest VQA vineyards, including The Hare Co., Château des Charmes, Queenston Mile Vineyard, and Bella Terra Vineyards.
Pick Fresh Fruit
Finally, don’t miss out on Niagara’s fabulous fruit festivals this summer! Our orchards provide some of the freshest local produce around, including juicy strawberries, cherries, and peaches. Festivals feature the summer bounty, plus live entertainment and tasty treats.
Fall
If you love taking in autumn’s splendour and natural beauty, fall is a great time to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Enjoy a Scenic Fall Walk
Take in the stunning colours of fall’s changing landscape with a hike along one of Niagara’s many trails. The Bruce Trail and the Niagara Parkway are excellent options for casual strollers and avid hikers alike.
Learn How Wine is Made During the Grape Harvest
Starting in September, Niagara wineries are busy harvesting the grapes that go into their award-winning wines. Take part in a tour at a local winery to pick, stomp, and even taste the fruits that the Niagara-on-the-Lake is known for.
Winter
If you dream of spending your holidays in a whimsical Christmas village, winter is the best time to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake! Our beautiful Heritage District transforms each year into a charming Christmas village straight out of a Dickensian novel.
Taste Niagara Icewine
Celebrate the harvest of icewine, the sweet and delicious wine that Niagara-on-the-Lake is known for! In addition to tastings, visitors can enjoy delicious food pairings, live music, and winter activities.
Skate in The Gardens
Grab your skates and visit The Gardens at Pillar and Post for an afternoon of winter fun at our outdoor skating rink, including hot, delicious snacks and beverages supplied by The Outpost, our year-round outdoor café.
Relax in a Hot Spring Pool
Warm up with a visit to 100 Fountain Spa at Pillar and Post, where you’ll relax in our outdoor hot spring pool—proven to cure even the most stubborn winter blues! Complete your spa visit with one of our Ultimate Indulgences, like our Elim MediHeel Pedicure, where we’ll remove those cold weather calluses and treat your feet to a soothing, hydrating treatment to banish cracked, dry winter skin.
Rediscover Niagara-on-the-Lake Year-Round with Vintage Hotels
With so much to discover in Niagara-on-the-Lake each season, you’ll want to visit all year round to experience all we have to offer. Be sure to check our site regularly for our seasonal packages, for even more ways to stay and save this season at Vintage Hotels. Book with us today to explore the many seasonal attractions in Niagara-on-the-Lake!