When is the Best Time to Visit Niagara-on-the-Lake?

Old Town Niagara on the Lake in the summer

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 things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake 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.

Cherry Blossoms blooming near the Prince of Wales hotel in 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 during the spring to spot the pink, lilac, and white blossoms as they come into bloom, for a picturesque afternoon stroll.

 

People riding Zoom Leisure Bikes through a park in Niagara on the Lake

Zoom Through Niagara-on-the-Lake

Photo courtesy of Zoom Leisure Bikes Rentals and Wine Tours

Nothing says spring like cycling! Check out Zoom Leisure Bike Rentals in Niagara-on-the-Lake 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. You’ll find a perfect blend of charming wineries, scenic landscapes, and exciting outdoor activities that make Niagara-on-the-Lake a must-visit destination for your summer vacation.

A summer boat tour in Niagara Falls

Hop Aboard a Boat in Niagara Falls

Experience the natural wonder of Niagara Falls for a breathtaking day trip 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!

A wine trolley for a summer wine tour in 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 Wine Trolley Tour, sample sublime wines from three of Niagara’s finest VQA vineyards, including The Hare Co., Château des Charmes, and Bella Terra Vineyards.

Fruit picked for a Niagara on the Lake fruit festival

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.

Fall walking trails in 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 exploring Niagara-on-the-Lake in the fall. 

Grapes before harvesting in the Fall

Learn How Wine is Made During the Grape Harvest

From September to October, Niagara wineries are busy harvesting the grapes for their award-winning wines. Take part in a fall tour at a local winery to pick, stomp, and even taste the fruits that 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.

Icewine served at the Niagara Icewine festival during the winter

Taste Niagara Icewine

Celebrate the harvest of icewine, the sweet and delicious wine that Niagara-on-the-Lake is best known for! In addition to tastings, visitors can enjoy delicious food pairings, live music, and winter activities in wine country. 

Winter skating in the Gardens in Niagara on the Lake

Skate in The Gardens at Pillar and Post

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.

Hot spring pools at 100 Fountain Spa at Pillar and Post, Niagara on the Lake

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 website 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!

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