This well-preserved 19th-century village in Ontario is one of the prettiest in the province

A trip to the Niagara region is always a good plan, no matter the season. In Ontario, we are fortunate to have such a stunning local getaway, with historic towns and waterfront views. Not only that, Niagara-on-the-Lake is often said to be one of the prettiest towns in Ontario, and it lives up to its reputation.

Let’s take a look at the beauty of this village, and add it to your fall travel list!

The picturesque quaint town

Located in the Niagara region, this waterfront community is bursting with old-world charm, and is one of Canada’s most historic towns.

“Niagara-on-the-Lake is a well-preserved 19th-century village and the heart of Ontario Wine Country,” states Niagara Falls Tourism, adding that it “epitomizes old town charm.”

This picturesque town is beautiful in every season, from the bloom of spring to the first snowfall of the holidays during winter.

“Known by the locals as NOTL, this must visit village is bordered on both sides by waterfront with arbour-framed streets among lush boulevard gardens,” according to Niagara Falls Tourism.

“Wander through the Heritage District as you discover whimsical boutiques, enthralling antique shops and delightful bistros – maybe even a horse drawn carriage or two.”

What to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake

There is so much to do in the town and the surrounding region.

Tourism Niagara says that the Heritage District in the town is “made for walking, with its boutique shops, cast-iron planters bursting with flowers, and horse-drawn carriages transporting riders to another time and place.”

Outside of town, in the countryside, you will find the Escarpment, “dotted with vineyards – their sun-drenched rows of grapes serving as enticing invitations to some of Canada’s best wineries.”

The region also boasts parks, hikes, and golf courses. In fact, Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to the oldest golf course in North America. Established in 1875, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club offer scenic round of golf, with a glimpse into the town’s history!

As for historic sites, you will find the Fort George and the Historical Society Museum. You’ll also find world-class theatre at the Shaw Festival with its three theatres.

Further along the scenic Niagara Parkway, you’ll find the Queenston Heights and Niagara Falls.

There’s also the Butterfly Conservatory at the Niagara Parks Commission site, which is a great place to visit with your family!

On a warm day, you can rent bikes and do a self-guided tour of the surrounding neighbourhoods, filled with quaint heritage homes that belong to a different era.

History of the region

According to Niagara Fall Tourism, Niagara-on-the-Lake was originally known as Butlersburg. The area was also named the first capitol of Upper Canada (now the province of Ontario). It was during the War of 1812 when the capitol was moved to York, which was later renamed as Toronto, “so as to be farther from the areas of combat.”

Last year, Niagara-on-the-Lake was named in Tripadvisor’s 2023 Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” Popular Destination in Canada award. Not surprising!

A little historic town, with a side of charm. And all in our own backyard.

We’ll see you in NOTL, friends!

How to get there: Niagara-on-the-Lake is about an hour and 25 minutes from Toronto. Directions can be found here.

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