Over the past few years, I’ve really changed my attitude towards the Canadian winter, or rather, the Toronto winter. Yes, it’s cold, yes, it can snow, yes, sometimes we miss out on a bit of sunshine. But I want to enjoy winter rather than suffer through it and count the days until spring returns. That’s why I made a commitment to myself to do more winter activities. And I was lucky to have my boyfriend’s help: for my birthday in February, he organized a 2-day trip to the Niagara region. I’ve been there many times before, but never in winter! I loved our weekend there and can’t wait to share all the information with you so that you too can enjoy a few days in winter in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Before I go any further, don’t forget to find me on Instagram, Pinterest and Youtube.
You can also read my other blog posts about Niagara region:
- Things to do around Niagara Falls
- The guide to see Niagara Falls from the Canadian side
- Your essential guide to get to Niagara Falls from Toronto
How long can I stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake in winter?
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a popular tourist destination in Ontario. On sunny days, there are lots of people. It’s a very pretty little town, where you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. In winter, the days are shorter and there’s less to do. However, if you’re lucky enough to get there after a snowfall, it’s simply magnificent. It’s like something out of a Christmas movie! I’d recommend staying for 2-3 days. It’s important to note that a stay in this region at this time of year will be quieter. Ideal for recharging your batteries, slowing down the pace and spending time alone.
Where to stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake?
- Prince of Wales hotel is probably the most iconic hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake. You can’t miss it. It’s a Victorian hotel that was built in 1864 and hosted Queen Elizabeth in 1973. I’ve driven past it several times without having the chance to stay there, until this weekend! The hotel has a restaurant, tea room, swimming pool and Jacuzzi. Yes, the hotel is old but not outdated.
- 124Q hotel is a hotel I’ve seen passed around a few times on Instagram and am eyeing for our next stay! It’s a more modern option if that’s more your style.
- Pillar and Post is part of the same group as the Prince of Wales Hotel. The space seems really nice, but a little more remote than the other two options on the main street.
What to do in the winter in Niagara-on-the-Lake?
Wine tasting
The Niagara region is famous for its vineyards. There are many options to choose from. Some offer tastings only, others have on-site restaurants. You should find what you’re looking for. Personally, I can’t recommend any in particular, as I drink little or no alcohol. But I’m sure you’ll find what you’re looking for!
Ice skating in Niagara-on-the-Lake
If you’re spending a few days in Niagara-on-the-Lake in winter, don’t forget to put the ice skates in the car. You may impress with your ease on the ice, or like me, feel like you’re skating like a pro and realize there’s still work to be done. The most important thing is to enjoy yourself. For that you have two options:
- The Ice Rink in the Gardens at Pillar and Post. The ice rink is part of the hotel, but at slightly different times for hotel guests and the public. But access is free!
- Wayne Gretzky Estate to skate right next to the whisky bar. At the time of writing, there was a $5 fee to use the rink.
Spa/Massage
As I mentioned earlier, spending a few days in Niagara-on-the-Lake in winter means resting, recharging, pampering and relaxing. And what better way to do that than with a spa treatment? If, like us, you’re staying at the Prince of Wales Hotel, you can book a treatment directly on site at their spa, the Secret Garden Spa. My only recommendation would be to make sure you book well in advance so you have plenty of choice, especially if you’re going at the weekend.
Here are a few other spa options in Niagara-on-the-Lake:
- 124Q Hotel and Spa: this one is on my list for our next visit! I’ve read some good experiences!
- 100 Fountain Spa: at the risk of repeating myself: this one is also on my list for our next visit. I’ve also read some good reviews of this place.
- Ospa: I don’t have any feedback but I found it when I was doing my research, you’ll let me know if you go!
Snow shoeing
If it snowed, you could snowshoe through the vineyards! I did it again this year at Creemore for the first time in …. 15 years or more. I loved it! I wanted to do it again in Niagara-on-the-Lake, but apparently you have to book well in advance. So I’m sharing the info with you, recommending that you book well in advance … then send me your photos on Instagram so I can enjoy them through you!
See Niagara Falls frozen
So yes, it’s not in Niagara-on-the-Lake and you’ll have to take the car for about twenty minutes. But I promise it’s worth the detour! For the record, the first time I went to Niagara Falls was in March 2015. The Falls were frozen, so the experience was really different from what I’d imagined. This winter I really wanted to go back and see Niagara Falls frozen again. I think it’s an incredible sight. It’s also a great lesson in life: even the strongest of us can sometimes get stuck, but just as one day the ice will melt and the Falls will return to their original strength, we can also get out of situations that block us and move forward.
Stroll by the lake
Take advantage of being so close to the shores of Lake Ontario to take a short stroll to the Queen’s Royal Bandstand. In winter, if it’s been very cold, you’ll be able to see the lake frozen. In our case it was extremely frozen at the edge, to the point where it looked like the earth was going much further than it really was. Mind you, it looked very solid and I saw people walking on it, but I’d always recommend admiring it from a distance to avoid taking any unnecessary risks.
See Toronto in the distance on a clear day
If it’s a sunny day, you might be lucky enough to see Toronto in the distance as you stroll through Queen’s Royal Park. You’ll need a much better view than mine, but it’s possible. And it helps a little to situate you in relation to Toronto. When you come by car, you wouldn’t think it was that close as the crow flies.
Stroll through the neighbourhoods to admire the beautiful homes
One of the first times I came to Niagara-on-the-Lake, I really appreciated the architecture of the houses. There’s a mix of Victorian and Georgian styles, and the houses are imposing and very well maintained. Walking around in winter adds an even more magical touch. Especially since, unlike the snow we had in Toronto, their snow is still beautiful and white. They clearly have less traffic, and we appreciated that!
Stroll along the main street
You can simply stroll down the main street of Niagara-on-the-Lake. You’ll find lots of little stores, it’s really pretty and you’ll feel like you’re in a Christmas movie. If you didn’t know, a lot of Christmas movies are filmed in Ontario, including some in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Where to eat in Niagara-on-the-Lake in the winter ?
It’s important to note that during the winter season, not all restaurants are open! You can find info on Google or on their Instagram in general.
- 11th post on Queen – The restaurant is really nice, but if you go there you must try the nachos. It’s a chic version that’s sure to please. Personally, I think they’re the best I’ve ever had in my life!
- Noble Restaurant: – Our hotel also had this restaurant. We didn’t go, but the photos made our mouths water.
- Treadwell – This restaurant was also recommended to us but as there aren’t 36 meals in a weekend we didn’t have the chance to try it.
I hope all this information will help you enjoy your stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake. If you have any other suggestions for activities, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment. If you’d like a summer or autumn version, let me know! I’ve seen other things during my research that aren’t available in winter but that I’d really like to try out in fine weather.
