Unique Things To Do In Niagara-on-the-Lake That Aren’t Wineries

Situated only 20 minutes from Niagara Falls and sitting on the shores of Lake Ontario at the mouth of the Niagara River, Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) is well known for its wineries and makes for a popular tourist destination.

This historic little town will transport you back to the Victorian era and its 19th century charm with its quaint buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and flower-filled, tree-lined streets.

things to do niagara on the lake

This small town is packed full of character and offers much more than wineries. Don’t get me wrong, I live in wine country and LOVE wineries and there’s an abundance of fabulous ones to visit (I’m not exaggerating when I say I’ve been to 99.9% of them 😂) , but they’re not for everyone and there’s more to explore than just them! 

Looking for unique things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Check this list out!

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1. See a play at the Shaw Festival Theatre

Niagara-on-the-Lake is well known for the Shaw Festival Theatre. Inspired by George Bernard Shaw, there are more than 10 plays every year, hosting upwards of 250,000 audience members!

It’s become a major Canadian cultural icon and features a diverse collection of plays from past and present brought to you by a talented team of actors, directors, and designers, and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

I’ve seen a few shows here; Alice in Wonderland and Sweeney Todd – both great plays! There are numerous showtimes during the year and the theatre is on Queen Street itself, so it’s within walking distance to shops and restaurants! 

2. Stroll down Queen Street and Browse Unique Shops

We came recently and all we did was wander the streets and that alone was really enjoyable. There’s always something to admire while walking down this street – from the unique shops, historic buildings, and gardens.

My very patient husband silently followed me around and stopped every few feet so I could grab a shot of something that caught my eye, and there is a lot to see in this picturesque town. Even the surrounding neighbourhoods are filled with character and you could easily spend an afternoon ambling through the flower-adorned streets.

things to see in niagara on the lake

Each shop is unique in its own way – no two are alike, and you won’t find stores like this anywhere else. From preserves to handmade goods, antiques, artisanal foods, and even an entire Christmas store, there is something to please everyone. 

There is such an eclectic collection of shops. Some that stand out is BeauChapeau, a boutique dedicated to hats, Cheese Secrets (yes please!), which carries mostly Canadian cheeses, Scottish Loft, a shop offering hundreds of Scottish products and British foods and candy, and the Old Niagara Bookshop, the only dedicated bookshop that has been serving the community for over half a century!

niagaraonthelakeactivities

3. Olive Oil Tasting

Yes – that’s right – you can actually go olive oil sampling here, which is something I have enjoyed doing and would recommend to everyone! It sounds weird, but you can sample the different flavoured oils and balsamic vinegars at OLiV, right on Queen Street. My favourite one is the Basil oil!

It’s not just for dipping bread or making salad dressings! You’ll be given helpful suggestions on what to do with the various oils and vinegars, since some of them are so unheard of (pineapple balsamic anyone?), including putting balsamic on ice cream or popcorn!

p.s. Tastings at OLiV are free! Check out what other things you can do for free in Niagara-on-the-Lake!

things to do in niagara on the lake

4. Eat a Chimney Cake

One of the signs from Budapest Bake Shop caught my eye while we were walking down the street. I saw “Budapest” and I was sold – if I can’t get to Hungary this year then at least I can try one of the traditional foods from there!

Kürtőskalács are the official dessert of Hungary! It’s essentially one long piece of dough that’s twirled around a spit and baked to perfection. They’re cylindrical and hollow, and are served fresh, hence the name “chimney cake”.

I ended up getting the walnut one, but there are many sweet and savory flavours, including Nutella-filled, raspberry, or jalapeno and cheddar. I’m glad I didn’t see it until after, but they also offer sundaes which look amazing.

  Things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake that aren’t wineries Situated only 20 minutes from Niagara Falls and sitting on the shores of Lake Ontario and the mouth of the Niagara River, Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) is well known for its wineries and makes for a popular tourist destination. This historic little town will transport you back to the Victorian era and its 19th century charm with its quaint buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and flower-filled, tree-lined streets. This small town is packed full of character and offers much more than wineries. Don’t get me wrong, I live in wine country and LOVE wineries, but they’re not for everyone and there’s more to explore than just them!    See a play at the Shaw Festival Theatre Niagara-on-the-Lake is well known for the Shaw Festival Theatre. Inspired by George Bernard Shaw, there are more than 10 plays every year, hosting upwards of 250,000 audience members! It’s become a major Canadian cultural icon and features a diverse collection of plays from past and present brought to you by a talented team of actors, directors, and designers, and is sure to leave a lasting impression. I’ve seen a few shows here; Alice in Wonderland and Sweeney Todd - both great plays! There are numerous showtimes during the year and the theatre is on Queen St itself, so within walking distance to shops and restaurants!  Stroll down Queen Street We came recently and all we did was wander the streets and that alone was really enjoyable. There’s always something to admire while walking down this street - from the unique shops, historic buildings, and gardens. Olive Oil Tasting Yes - that’s right - you can actually go olive oil sampling here, which is actually something I have enjoyed doing and would recommend the same! It sounds weird, but you can sample the different flavoured oils and balsamic vinegars at Oliv, right on Queen Street. My favourite one is the Basil oil! Chimney Cake One of their signs at Budapest Bake Shop caught my eye while we were walking down the street. I saw “Budapest” and I was sold - if I can’t get to Hungary this year then at least I can try one of the traditional foods from there! Kürtőskalács are the official dessert of Hungary! It’s essentially one long piece of dough that’s twirled around a spit and baked to perfection. They’re cylindrical and hollow, and are served fresh, hence the name “chimney cake”. I ended up getting the walnut one, but there are many sweet and savory flavours, surely to appeal to all palates! Voices of Freedom Park I’ve visited NOTL numerous times in my life but I had no idea the Voices of Freedom Park was here! We stumbled upon it while wandering through some streets a block back from Queen Street. Opened in November of 2018, this area is dedicated to commemorating the town’s Black history and to mark the anniversary (now 227 years) of the Act to limit slavery in upper Canada. On one of their plaques, it states that Voices of Freedom gives expression to the silence and forgotten stories of people of Africa descent, enslaved, freed, and free, whose sacrifices, labour, skills and talents contributed to the development of Niagara-on-the-Lake.  NOTL was the capital of Upper Canada from 1792-1796 and has had Black residents since the 1780s. This is also where the first anti-slvary legislation was introduced in the British Empire. I didn’t know this! Following the American Revolution during the 1780s, United Empire Loyalists settled here and many brought enslaved Africans with them. The post-revolution also included Black Loyalists who fought in “Butler’s Rangers” and were granted their freedom and land, yet, racism and discrimination was a reality and they struggled with becoming equal and truly “free”. There is actually a really beautiful metaphorical message to the design of the Park, which contains four elements. The first of which represents “handcuffs” which symbolizes slavery and captiviy. Next there is a path which represents the journey North of those escaping the USA. Ahead, there are two curved steel designs, marking a passage that symbolizes the struggles and barriers to passage. Historical dates and names are inscribed here. At the end of this path, there are steel forms of people in the shape of a circle which is the focal point of the park. It represents community, support, kinship and unity. It points towards the North Star as the Beacon of Hope - the same star that guided freedom seekers towards Canada. Truthfully I didn’t know any of this, so I’m really glad we found this spot, and think it’s an important spot to see while visiting here.  Fort George I was lucky to see this place completely empty not too long ago - while their grounds were open but nothing else was! This is a popular day trip for schools, and a great place to explore with your family!  Fort George National Historic Site was one of the most important times in Canada’s history, with the War of 1812. Fort George served as the headquarters for the Centre Division of the British Army and Major-General Sir Isaac Brock (if you’re travelling to Niagara Falls, be sure to stop by and visit his monument LINK TO FREE POST). Control of the river supply route was essential to the survival of forts west of the Niagara Region, and protected Navy Hall, a vital warehouse and wharf facility. This place was destroyed by artillery before Americans invaded and took over for 7 months in 1813. Outnumbers 5-1, the British defenders fought desperately while under fire from the U.S., after which the British reclaimed it for the duration of the war. Today, you’ll see musket demonstrations, take part in tours to learn about the lifestyle of those who lived there, and listen to 18th and 19th century music. Living Wayside This adorable chapel is only a few minutes’s drive from downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake, right next to Walker’s Country Market, and is worth a stop for a photo! This tiny chapel only seats 6 people - and yes - you can get married here too! Local guides claim this Living Water Wayside Chapel holds the title for the Guinness Book of World Records for smallest chapel, but I couldn’t find anything official for that. But at 78 square feet, it definitely seems plausible! Built in 1964, it was meant to serve as a place of worship for passing tourists. There are two bibles and a guest book inside! Bike Ride This little town is the perfect place for a bike ride. There are endless streets to explore and our favourite area is XXXX by turning left instead right on to Queen Street, you’ll end up in narrow lanes and charming houses. I wouldn’t advise driving for a few reasons - the roads are very narrow, and you’ll very likely get lost (oops!). Navigating your way through these streets is much easier with a bike, and there are many stops along the water to sit and enjoy the view. There isn’t a lot of available parking down at this end since it is residential, so that’s something to keep in mind too! Visit an Art Gallery This tiny historic town offers the perfect setting for artists! We are really fortunate in Niagara to have an abundance of talent- be sure to visit the numerous galleries for inspiration! With 5 art galleries on Queen Street alone, you’ll be sure to get your fill of inspiration.  Each summer, an event and market takes place called “Artistry by the Lake” (postponed from summer to fall 2020 TBD), which features 80 artists displaying their work - from painting, sculptures, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery and more. It’s a juried event, and it’s FREE to go! Browse the Shops Each shop is unique in its own way - no two are alike. From preserves to handmade goods, antiques, artisanal foods, and even an entire Christmas store, there is something to please everyone.  McFarland House Tucked away in a picturesque park-like setting, McFarland house was built in the 1800s by John McFarland and his sons, on the land granted to him by King George III, and is one of few buildings in Niagara-on-the-Lake that predates the War of 1812. It was used as a hospital and headquarters for the British and American armies during the war, and was also home to a cannon battery aimed to protect the Niagara River. $7 entry for Adults, Children 5-12, $5. High Tea at Prince of Wales Hotel Want to feel fancy? Check out Afternoon Tea at Prince of Wales Hotel! (INC PIC OF HOTEL) Treat yourself to Victorian elegance with ornate tea sets, decor, sweet and savoury treats, and royal treatment. Add on mimosas or champagne for some added fun. A perfect addition to a spa day, or girls’ day out. Check out their menu here!  Be sure to make a reservation in advance - this is a popular place!

5. Visit Voices of Freedom Park

I’ve visited NOTL numerous times in my life but I had no idea the Voices of Freedom Park was here! We stumbled upon it while wandering through some streets a block back from Queen Street. Opened in November of 2018, this area is dedicated to commemorating the town’s Black history and to mark the anniversary (now 227 years) of the Act to limit slavery in upper Canada.

On one of their plaques, it states that Voices of Freedom gives expression to the silence and forgotten stories of people of African descent, enslaved, freed, and free, whose sacrifices, labour, skills and talents contributed to the development of Niagara-on-the-Lake. 

Niagara-on-the-Lake was the capital of Upper Canada from 1792-1796 and has had Black residents since the 1780s. This is also where the first anti-slavery legislation was introduced in the British Empire. I didn’t know this!

Following the American Revolution during the 1780s, United Empire Loyalists settled here and many brought enslaved Africans with them. The post-revolution also included Black Loyalists who fought in “Butler’s Rangers” and were granted their freedom and land, yet, racism and discrimination was a reality and they struggled with becoming equal and truly “free”.

There is actually a really beautiful metaphorical message to the design of the Park, which contains four elements. The first of which represents “handcuffs” which symbolizes slavery and captiviy.

Next there is a path which represents the journey North of those escaping the USA. Ahead, there are two curved steel designs, marking a passage that symbolizes the struggles and barriers to passage. Historical dates and names are inscribed here. At the end of this path, there are steel forms of people in the shape of a circle which is the focal point of the park. It represents community, support, kinship and unity.

It points towards the North Star as the Beacon of Hope – the same star that guided freedom seekers towards Canada.

Truthfully I didn’t know any of this, so I’m really glad we found this spot, and think it’s an important spot to see while visiting here. 

things that arent wineries in niagara on the lake

6. Visit Fort George

I was lucky to see this place completely empty not too long ago – while their grounds were open but nothing else was! This is a popular day trip for schools, and a great place to explore with your family! 

Fort George National Historic Site was one of the most important times in Canada’s history, with the War of 1812. Fort George served as the headquarters for the Centre Division of the British Army and Major-General Sir Isaac Brock (if you’re travelling to Niagara Falls, be sure to stop by and visit his monument!).

Control of the river supply route was essential to the survival of forts west of the Niagara Region, and protected Navy Hall, a vital warehouse and wharf facility.

This place was destroyed by artillery before Americans invaded and took over for 7 months in 1813. Outnumbered 5-1, the British defenders fought desperately while under fire from the U.S., after which the British reclaimed it for the duration of the war.

Today, you’ll see musket demonstrations, take part in tours to learn about the lifestyle of those who lived there, and listen to 18th and 19th century music.

Related: How to Get from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake

7. Visit the Living Water Wayside Chapel

This adorable chapel is only a few minutes’s drive from downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake, right next to Walker’s Country Market, and is worth a stop for a photo! This tiny chapel only seats 6 people – and yes – you can get married here too!

Local guides claim this Living Water Wayside Chapel holds the title for the Guinness Book of World Records for smallest chapel, but I couldn’t find anything official for that. But at 78 square feet, it definitely seems plausible!

Built in 1964, it was meant to serve as a place of worship for passing tourists. There are two bibles and a guest book inside!

thingstoseeNOTL

8. Go for a Bike Ride

This little town is the perfect place for a bike ride. There are endless streets to explore and our favourite area is the quaint neighbourhood at the end of Queen Street. By turning left instead right on to Queen Street off of Mississauga Street, you’ll end up in narrow lanes and charming houses.

I wouldn’t advise driving for a few reasons: the roads are very narrow, and you’ll very likely get lost (oops!). Navigating your way through these streets is much easier with a bike, and there are many stops along the water to sit and enjoy the view.

There isn’t a lot of available parking down at this end since it is residential, so that’s something to keep in mind too! Please be respectful of residents and their properties along the way. 😊

If you don’t have a bike to bring, there are bike rentals from Zoom Leisure right along Mississauga Street to enjoy! Three hours is only $20, giving you lots of time to explore the hidden areas.

things to see in NOTL

This tiny historic town offers the perfect setting for artists! We are really fortunate in Niagara to have an abundance of talent – be sure to visit the numerous galleries for inspiration! With 5 art galleries on Queen Street alone, you’ll be sure to get your fill of inspiration. 

Each summer, an event and market takes place called “Artistry by the Lake” (postponed from summer to fall 2020 TBD), which features 80 artists displaying their work – from painting, sculptures, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery and more. It’s a juried event, and it’s FREE to go!

niagaraonthelakethingstodo

10. Take a Ride with Pedal Pub NOTL

How much fun does this look?! Handcrafted in the Netherlands, this bar on wheels can accommodate between 6-9 people. Pedal Pub NOTL offers a different way to soak in the sites of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Don’t want to take a solo bike ride, walk, or drive? Here’s your answer, and you get to stop to have a drink or two along the way! This 2.5 hours tour of the city stops at two restaurants and a brewery to stop for samples of local wine and beer.

There are also 5 non-pedal spots for those who aren’t able to, or just want to enjoy the ride!

Due to Covid-19, their booking process has changed to accomodate group bookings within the same social circle (currently no individual bookings), bikes are sanitized 5 times throughout the tour, and proper measures are taken before entering local establishments.

So, if you have a group of friends are looking for something unique to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake,this seems like the perfect day out!

Pedal Pub NOTL
Image from Pedal Pub NOTL

11. Visit McFarland House

Tucked away in a picturesque park-like setting, McFarland House was built in the 1800s by John McFarland and his sons, on the land granted to him by King George III, and is one of few buildings in Niagara-on-the-Lake that predates the War of 1812.

It was used as a hospital and headquarters for the British and American armies during the war, and was also home to a cannon battery aimed to protect the Niagara River. $7.75 entry for Adults, Children 5-12, $5.

McFarland House makes a great spot for a picnic!
Check out the best 10+ spots in Niagara-on-the-Lake for a picnic!

12. Treat Yourself to High Tea at Prince of Wales Hotel

Want to feel fancy? Check out Afternoon Tea at Prince of Wales Hotel! Treat yourself to Victorian elegance with ornate tea sets, decor, sweet and savoury treats, and royal treatment. Add on mimosas or champagne for some added fun.

A perfect addition to a spa day, or girls’ day out. Check out their menu here!  Be sure to make a reservation in advance – this is a popular place!

princeofwaleshotel

Final Thoughts

Niagara-on-the-Lake should be a place for everyone to visit. Full of charm and great collection of shops and restaurants, it makes for a great day trip and there are plenty of things to see and do aside from wineries.

Planning a trip to Niagara Falls after? Check out the best 12 Free Things to do in Niagara Falls! Or maybe you’re looking for an awesome restaurant? See my top recommendations for inexpensive places to eat.

Pin it for later!

Unique things NOTL
things to see in niagara on the lake

74 Comments

  1. August 3, 2020 / 7:29 am

    Wow! Amazing articles and great advice!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 3, 2020 / 7:34 am

      Thank you!

  2. August 3, 2020 / 7:30 am

    I love this place! My husband and I used to go every year. We love our wine tasting. NOTL is also suppose to be haunted so you can do some sort of haunted walking tour, which I would love to do someday! 🙂 Great post!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 3, 2020 / 7:33 am

      There is so much history here! Think I’ll pass on the haunted walking tour!!! 😂😂😂

      • Carolyn
        March 29, 2021 / 6:30 pm

        My family of 2. adults and 5 teenagers did the Haunted Walk. It was great fun. Nothing to scare anyone, the stories are interesting to hear.

        • Sarah
          Author
          March 30, 2021 / 5:06 am

          Sounds like so much fun! I want to do that this year for sure!

  3. August 3, 2020 / 9:06 am

    I never knew there were so many things to do in this area! It has been on my bucket list, and now I have more things to do and see! I cannot wait to get tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel, too! Thank you so much for this helpful guide!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 3, 2020 / 11:41 am

      Thanks Nichole! Tons of little treasures around town 🙂

  4. August 3, 2020 / 2:33 pm

    Wow! There’re so much to do in Niagara. I love the chimney cake, it’s so good!! Thank you for sharing.

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 3, 2020 / 8:27 pm

      Thank you! There certainly is a ton to do around here!

  5. August 3, 2020 / 3:10 pm

    As someone who doesn’t drink, this is so helpful! A raspberry chimney cake sounds yummy! I’d follow that up with visiting Voices of Freedom Park. As the daughter of an artist, I can’t pass up an art gallery 😁 I had no idea there was so much to do in that area – thanks for sharing!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 3, 2020 / 8:31 pm

      Thanks Steph! I didn’t realize there were that many activities that didn’t involve wine! It’s a beautiful spot to come and be inspired by art.

  6. August 3, 2020 / 5:34 pm

    You had me at “chimney cake”! What a lovely town. I’ve never been over by Niagara, but now I might find more reasons to head that way.

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 3, 2020 / 8:31 pm

      Hahhaa! It’s amazing! The Niagara Region has so much to offer. I hope you make it one day!

  7. August 3, 2020 / 7:28 pm

    I love that high tea is offered at the Prince of Wales! Also, that sculpture on Queen Street? If that’s only one picture, I imagine I would be walking (and stopping) for hours!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 3, 2020 / 8:33 pm

      There are so many hidden gems in Niagara-on-the-Lake and everywhere you look there is something neat to take a photo of! 🙂

  8. August 3, 2020 / 7:47 pm

    You had me at Chimney cake!! Looks like a gorgeous place!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 3, 2020 / 8:34 pm

      Yes!!! They’re so good! It’s a beautiful little town 🙂

  9. August 3, 2020 / 11:18 pm

    I’ve (sadly) yet to do any of these, but goodness, that chimney cake looks awesome! :O!! That’s awesome that they have so many different flavors! (+ I love olive oil/balsamic vinegar-tasting!!)

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 4, 2020 / 6:56 am

      I love the tastings to! It’s not something you see every day and I had no idea there were so many different things to do with oil and vinegar!!

  10. August 4, 2020 / 1:46 am

    oh my gosh everything is so charming and quaint! And Chimney Cake with NUTELLA???? 🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 4, 2020 / 6:56 am

      Right?!?! I am SOOO happy I stumbled across that one!!!

  11. August 5, 2020 / 10:12 am

    Okay, so I live in Ontario and have been to Niagara on the Lake multiple times, and have not done the majority of the things you have written on this list! Thank you so much for this great post!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 5, 2020 / 11:29 am

      Thank you!! It’s a great little spot to explore!

  12. August 5, 2020 / 10:21 am

    I love the variety of architecture this little town seems to have. I would really like to check out this region on a road trip!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 5, 2020 / 11:30 am

      It’s a great roadtrip stop! It’s definitely a unique place to visit 🙂

  13. Francesca
    August 5, 2020 / 4:16 pm

    I LOVE the Niagara wineries! It is super cool to see though that there are other things to do besides the wineries too. Chimney Cakes are such a good snack and going for a bike ride looks gorgeous.

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 5, 2020 / 9:27 pm

      We’re soooo lucky to have so many wineries around us!!! It was a lot of fun uncovering some non-wine things to do too! 🙂

  14. August 6, 2020 / 12:00 am

    I feel like I only ever drive through Niagara on the lake on the way back from the falls! Great tips and what to do there!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 6, 2020 / 7:08 am

      I hope you are able to stop next time! It’s a gorgeous little place to stop for a few hours!

  15. August 6, 2020 / 1:21 am

    Love this! It looks like there are so many cool things that could be done. I absolutely love Chimney Cakes and the suggestion of the olive oil sampling is so cool as well. I am certainly looking forward to a point when I would be able to visit Niagara on the Lake.

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 6, 2020 / 7:07 am

      Thank you Polly! It’s a quaint little town with lots of fun things to do! Definitely stop for a chimney cake! 🙂

  16. August 6, 2020 / 3:07 am

    These are truly unique things to do in Niagara on the Lake. I would love to treat myself to an afternoon tea at the Prince of Wales hotel and compare it with the one in the UK.

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 6, 2020 / 7:05 am

      Oh yes! That would be a fun comparison! Although nothing beats a proper English cup of tea for me, but I do wonder how the treats compare!

  17. August 6, 2020 / 6:09 am

    Wow I didn’t know olive oil tasting was a thing. Very interesting post 🙂

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 6, 2020 / 7:04 am

      Right?? It’s really different! Kind of weird, but so interesting to do!

  18. August 6, 2020 / 7:25 am

    I never knew of so many things to do in Niagara!! Like most. I was there visiting the wineries and wish I had known of Fort Gorge and Freedom Park – would have loved to stroll through.

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 7, 2020 / 6:00 am

      Both are really neat places. I’m so happy I stumbled upon Freedom Park!

  19. August 6, 2020 / 7:33 am

    I love your photos so much, they have such a summer-ish vibe! Great article!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 7, 2020 / 6:16 am

      Thank you! 🙂

  20. August 6, 2020 / 7:54 pm

    Never knew there are so many interesting things to do in this part of Canada. Although I have never been there, I have read so much about Canada but never came across visiting Niagra-on-the-lake. The chimney cake is sure an eye catcher and probably the biggest motivation to visit this place 🙂

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 7, 2020 / 6:16 am

      Haha yes!!! I’m only just discovering all these amazing things in Canada too – and I’ve lived here my whole life!

  21. Ramya
    August 6, 2020 / 11:25 pm

    I loved the way you elaborated on the things one can do in Niagara on the lake. The chimney cake definitely looked like an amazing option. Do they really go for olive oil tasting? This is definitely a news to me. Do they also impart knowledge around the different varieties of olive oil? I would check few of the places whenever I visit the place.

  22. August 7, 2020 / 12:45 pm

    It looks so charming here, I love the architecture. It’s like a hybrid between european styles and american

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 8, 2020 / 9:15 am

      Yes! It is sooo beautiful, I just love it!

  23. Nicole
    August 7, 2020 / 12:47 pm

    It looks so charming and peaceful here. I love the architecture. It’s like a hybrid of european styles with american.

  24. August 7, 2020 / 7:43 pm

    The building (especially that hotel) have a bit of a Disneyland feel to me! Seems like such a cute town to visit and I love the history behind older buildings and places 🙂

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 8, 2020 / 9:17 am

      It is adorable!! 🙂 Tons of history here which is always fascinating!

  25. Taylor
    August 7, 2020 / 9:33 pm

    I still haven’t been to the Niagara area, but you totally sold me with this article. It looks so quaint and its nice to know that there is much more to do than drink. 🙂

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 8, 2020 / 9:19 am

      Absolutely!!! I love the wineries, but I can only do so much of that haha!

  26. August 8, 2020 / 3:07 am

    So wineries are good but this list is better! So much to do in this area. That chimney cake…

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 8, 2020 / 9:20 am

      I’m still dreaming about that chimney cake hahaha!!!

  27. August 8, 2020 / 9:31 am

    The chimney cake looks DIVINE! Also love the idea of biking around this cute town! Thanks for sharing!!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 8, 2020 / 10:02 am

      Thank you Courtney! It’s such a cute town!

  28. August 8, 2020 / 1:04 pm

    WOw, we only drove through Niagara on the lake on our way back fro Niagara Falls to Toronto. Found the flowers beautiful, but didn’t realise there was so much more to do.

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 8, 2020 / 4:27 pm

      Yes! It’s gorgeous! It makes for a great day trip 🙂 !

  29. August 8, 2020 / 3:10 pm

    Chimney cakes!!! Thank you for creating a list of activities for people who dont drink! This is such a great compilation of diverse activites. The entire city looks like a great place to just walk around and absorbe the vibe of the city!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 8, 2020 / 4:31 pm

      It really is! Thank you!!

  30. Kanupriyaa
    August 8, 2020 / 4:13 pm

    This is such a cute little town, it reminds me of small villages im France. I would love to explore this if I take a trip up towards Ontario. Thank you for the guide!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 8, 2020 / 4:37 pm

      And I’d love to get to France!! We were supposed to come in May, but you’re right, it totally does have a little European vibe!

  31. August 8, 2020 / 6:57 pm

    Great list of things to do (and eat) while visiting Niagara! Not everyone likes to just go to winieries or want some variety. I’ve never been to Niagara and this is definitely on my bucket list. We will definitely take advantage of some of your suggestions and I loved your photos. Great post and thanks for sharing!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 9, 2020 / 7:38 am

      Thank you Arielle!! Even as a local I had no idea there were so many non-winery things to do in a town so focused on wines! I hope you are able to get here one day! 🙂

  32. mayuri
    August 8, 2020 / 7:39 pm

    Can’t believe there is so much to do in Niagara. I only explored probably 35-40% of Niagara on the lake. Can’t wait to revisit – hopefully summer of 2021. Thanks for sharing, will save it for future.

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 9, 2020 / 7:39 am

      Thanks Mayuri! I used to only just come to walk down Queen St but clearly there is a lot more to it than that! It’s been great staying home and exploring locally this summer!

  33. August 8, 2020 / 9:38 pm

    I’ve never heard of olive oil tasting! Sounds like an interesting thing to try someday!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 9, 2020 / 7:47 am

      It does sound a bit odd but it’s very informative and I had no idea there were so many variations of flavours!!

  34. August 9, 2020 / 2:55 am

    I actually landed up in Niagara on the Lake by chance because the jet boat ride we had booked in Niagara Falls didn’t take place there and the venue was moved to Niagara on the Lake. I absolutely loved the charming little town and though I did not get much time to spend there, just strolling the streets and walking into cute unique shops was a great experience. I did not know that you can find chimney cakes there, I loved them in Budapest!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 9, 2020 / 7:48 am

      That’s awesome!! It certainly makes for an interesting visit. I’m not sure how long the Bake Shop has been there but as someone who hasn’t been to Hungary – I’m glad I was able to try one!!!

  35. Shay
    August 9, 2020 / 7:54 am

    Looks so fun! I’ve actually gone olive oil tasting before and I would highly recommend to others!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 9, 2020 / 7:57 am

      Yes!! It sounds a bit off-putting but so interesting!!

  36. Stephanie
    August 9, 2020 / 9:58 am

    I love high tea, what a unique way to spend an afternoon in this area! Since having my baby I can’t hang like I used to (one glass of wine and I’m shot!) It was nice to see so many alternatives. I love the idea of visiting an art gallery. Awesome post, and much appreciated by people like me!

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 10, 2020 / 6:20 am

      Thank you Stephanie! I’m glad I was able to put together a great list of activities to do in this cute little town!

  37. Sharon
    August 20, 2022 / 11:45 am

    My husband and I lived in NOTL for 16 years. What a blessing!
    * A shout-out to the golfers as NOTL has the oldest Golf Course in North America.
    * Bicycle trails galore.
    * Shopping in Olde Towne is always interesting, with treasures waiting to be found.
    * Great restaurants
    * Many B&B’s with extremely helpful Host

    • Sarah
      Author
      August 22, 2022 / 12:10 pm

      We love NOTL! We learn something new every time we visit 🙂

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