Nestled where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a postcard-perfect gem bursting with charm, history, and culture. Just 25 minutes from the roar of the Falls, this enchanting town remains one of our favourite places to visit, especially this time of the year. The picturesque landscape invites you to wander through tree-lined streets, explore beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, and soak up a vibrant atmosphere filled with boutique shops, world-class theatre and modern architecture meets winery tradition for a perfect balance. Whether you’re a history buff, wine lover, or simply in search of a little magic, NOTL delivers no matter what your idea of fun means!
Originally known as Butlersburg in honour of Colonel John Butler, NOTL was later renamed Newark and served as a British military base and refuge for Loyalists after the American Revolution. In 1792, it became the first capital of Upper Canada (now Ontario), hosting the first provincial parliament at Navy Hall. During the War of 1812, it was captured by American forces after a fierce battle and later saw its capital status moved to York (now Toronto).
The town was burned to the ground in 1813 during the war and painstakingly rebuilt, which is why so much of its architecture reflects Regency and Georgian styles from that era.
The heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake is its Heritage District, where arbour-framed streets and garden-lined boulevards lead to whimsical boutiques, antique shops, cafés, and bistros. Horse-drawn carriages add to the town’s old-world charm, while attractions like the Shaw Festival Theatre showcase its cultural flair and the most beautiful and robust flower baskets cascade down the streets.
NOTL is one of Canada’s premier wine regions, home to nearly 40 wineries (closer to 70 if looking at the entire Niagara region) known for producing award-winning vintages, including the world-famous Niagara Icewine. More than 90% of Canada’s Icewine is produced in the Niagara region, and NOTL is the crown jewel of that legacy. Its unique microclimate—thanks to the lake and escarpment makes it ideal for grape growing, especially the Vidal grapes used for Icewine. Winemakers here must harvest grapes at –8°C or colder, often by hand, in the middle of the night—making each bottle of Icewine as precious as it tastes. Whether you prefer guided tours, biking between vineyards, or dining at elegant winery restaurants, Ontario Wine Country offers something for every palate.
Beyond sipping wine and strolling the Heritage District, visitors can explore breweries, distilleries, and scenic waterfronts. The town is also home to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club, North America’s oldest golf course, established in 1875 and still offering views of Fort Niagara across the water. It’s also home to several destination spas and Vintage Hotels. The Shaw Festival presents world-class theatre from April to December, drawing visitors from around the world. The town’s Fort George National Historic Site offers a glimpse into military life in the early 1800s, with costumed interpreters, musket demonstrations, and living history events that are especially popular with families. For fans of ghost stories, NOTL is considered one of the most haunted towns in Canada, ghost walks and historical tours share chilling tales of its centuries-old past.
Today, NOTL has a population just under 20,000 and welcomes over 3 million visitors annually- a testament to its enduring appeal. Niagara-on-the-Lake weaves together rich history, timeless charm, and memorable experiences, creating a destination that keeps calling you back.