As soon as the days stretch longer and the scent of lilacs and lavender drifts through the air, something magical begins to stir in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Tucked between the southern shores of Lake Ontario and the rolling vineyards of Niagara wine country, this historic gem transforms into Ontario’s ultimate summertime getaway.
Whether you crave culture, cuisine, the countryside or a cozy retreat, there’s something here for everyone. And the best part? It’s all wrapped in that signature small-town charm you can’t find anywhere else.
A Town Made for Strolling
Summertime in Niagara-on-the-Lake practically begs you to slow down and take it all in. Wander along Queen Street where horse-drawn carriages clatter gently along tree-lined residential streets. Flower baskets spill vibrant colours from lampposts, boutique storefronts tempt shoppers with one-of-a-kind finds, and outdoor patios buzz with relaxed conversation and the clink of wine glasses.
Take your time popping into art galleries, chocolate shops and bakeries, or simply sit back on a bench and watch the world go by. It’s all part of a perfect summer day in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
A Toast to the Season
This is wine country, after all, and there’s no better season to sip your way through it. With more than 20 wineries just a short drive (or bike ride!) from Old Town, you can spend a sun-soaked afternoon tasting crisp whites, bold reds or summer-perfect rosés. Many vineyards offer open-air tastings, food and wine pairings and even live music among the vines.
Looking for something a little different? Try a cider tasting, join a vineyard yoga class or toast the sunset on a vineyard patio with a locally sourced charcuterie board and your favourite vintage wine.
Summertime on Stage
No visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake in the summer is complete without a night—or afternoon—at the theatre. The world-renowned Shaw Festival lights up the season with a dazzling lineup of plays and musicals, from clever comedies to stirring dramas.
This summer’s calendar offers something for every theatre lover, and with intimate venues just steps from Queen Street, you can go from fine dining to curtain call without missing a beat.
Events That Make the Season Sing
There’s always something happening here in the summer. From music festivals and art shows to vintage car weekends and lavender field tours, each week brings a fresh way to explore the region.
The Niagara Jazz Festival and Music Niagara return with toe-tapping performances, while the annual Peach Festival in August celebrates the area’s delicious fruit harvest with food, crafts and old-fashioned fun. Keep an eye out for local markets too, where you’ll find everything from handmade soaps and fresh-cut flowers to jams, honey and farm-fresh produce.
History Comes Alive
For history lovers, Niagara-on-the-Lake invites you to step back in time. Tour Fort George for musket demonstrations and costumed re-enactors or stroll through the charming streets lined with 19th-century architecture. Visit the Niagara Apothecary, a lovingly restored 1860s pharmacy, or take a guided walking tour to uncover the stories behind the town’s pubs, stately homes and historic inns.
Evenings bring their own kind of magic. As the sun sets over the lake, the breeze turns cooler and the streetlights begin to glow, you’ll understand why this place has captured hearts for generations.
Play Outdoors
Prefer your summer days with a little adrenaline? From kayaking and jetboat rides on the Niagara River to cycling the scenic Niagara Parkway, there are endless ways to get moving. Tee off at one of Canada’s oldest golf courses with views of the lake, or rent a bike and cruise through orchards, vineyards and waterfront trails.
If relaxation is more your speed, a spa afternoon or quiet picnic overlooking the mighty Niagara River or Lake Ontario might be just the ticket. With views stretching across the lake to Toronto’s skyline, it’s the perfect place to press pause.
Stay in Style
Of course, the cherry on top of any Niagara-on-the-Lake escape is where you rest your head. With more than 100 charming bed and breakfasts, inns and boutique guesthouses and villas, you’ll find your perfect home away from home. Each offers its own personal touch—whether it’s a gourmet breakfast on the porch, a garden full of blooms, or insider tips on where to go and what to see.
Many of our STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake members are long-time locals who love sharing the heart of the town with visitors. Think of your hosts as your personal summer concierge.
The Time Is Now
Whether it’s a romantic weekend, a girlfriends’ getaway or a solo adventure in search of inspiration, summer in Niagara-on-the-Lake is where stories are made and memories are sealed with sunshine.
So pack your sandals, bring your appetite and make this summer one to remember in Ontario’s most enchanting escape. We’ll be waiting with open arms—and maybe a chilled glass of chardonnay.
NOTHING’S FINER THAN SUMMERTIME IN NOTL
With Summer around the corner, there’s much to see and do in Niagara-on-the-Lake:
Until September 13: Tales in Line and Colour exhibit at RiverBrink Art Museum
April 9–December 21: Shaw Festival 2025
June 7 & 8: Second Annual NOTL Studio Tour
June 12: Mandala Rock Dot Painting Workshop at Lakeview Wine Co.
June 13: Soirée en Blanc at Château des Charmes
June 14: The Shaw Guild Garden Tour
June 14 & 15: Summer BBQ Series at Lakeview Wine Co.
Mid-June to mid-August: Music Niagara 2025
June 19: Canvas Paint Party: Summer Sunset at Lakeview Wine Co.
June 20-September 25: Jackson-Triggs 2025 Summer Concert Series
June 21: Strawberry Festival at St. Andrews Church
June 22: Laura Secord Run
June 22: Hot for Vegan Food & Wine at Stratus Vineyard
June 28-July 1: Artistry by the Lake
July 1: Canada Day (free entry to Fort George and fireworks!)
July 12: Niagara-on-the-Lake Horticultural Society’s Gardener’s Garden Tour
Juyly 17-20: International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration
July 30: Gateau & Grace at St. Andrews Church
August: Peach Festival—details are still ripening
August 13: Gateau & Grace at St. Andrews Church
August 27: Gateau & Grace at St. Andrews Church
September 28: SeptemberFest at Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate
HELPFUL TIPS
Lost & Found: Did you lose something while you were in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Contact the lost and found centre at the NOTL Chamber of Commerce located at 26 Queen Street in the lower level of the building. Or call 1-905-468-1950 or email tourism@niagaraonthelake.com for more information.
Drive Safely: As part of Niagara Region’s Vision Zero program, automated speed enforcement cameras have been installed in school zones. Please pay attention to the speed limits posted throughout Niagara-on-the-Lake as more cameras are planned.
Metered Parking: General information on metered parking in Niagara-on-the-Lake is found here. Your STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts feature complimentary on-site parking for guests and are happy to advise you on where to park for free in and around Old Town. (Remember, parking is free in Old Town during the month of December!)
Accessible Parking: Several accessible parking spaces are located throughout the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, both on the street and in municipal parking lots.
All vehicles parking in the accessible zone must display an original and current accessible permit. Any vehicle found parked in an accessible zone without the valid accessible permit will be ticketed. The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has approved the use of accessible parking permits in the following areas only:
- Designated accessible zones/spaces; and
- At any meter free of charge, including municipal lots governed by pay-and-display parking meters. In these locations, a pay-and-display permit is not required if the vehicle is displaying a valid accessible permit.