Enjoy Local This Summer: Niagara Edition
With businesses and activities reopening for what’s left of the summer, it’s only natural to catch the travel bug. But the good news is, you don’t have to go far to satisfy the itch. Niagara offers a wide range of food, drink, activity, and leisure making this summer the perfect time to explore your own backyard.
Known for its affordability and high quality of life, the region is attracting more visitors to take in the sights and invest in local residences and businesses. The area is rich in history and culture, making this the spot to eat, work, and play all season long. Here are some of the unique adventures available for you to explore:
Winery & Brewery Industry
Niagara is well known for its wine and beer industry. The Beamsville/Jordan area is home to many wineries and breweries, bringing both locals and tourists to a lesser-known part of the region. Grab a pint at Bench Brewing on their beautiful patio or stop in for a tasting at 13th Street Winery, where you can sip the local fruit while you stroll through their art gallery. The Beamsville area is home to beautiful views of the escarpment and vineyards, all at an affordable price. Located on the northern side of the region, these wine and beer tours are just a quick commute to and from the GTA.
Entertainment Districts
Downtown St. Catharines is a perfect spot for weekend staycations. You can always catch a live, local band at Merchant Ale House and other downtown hotspots. For special occasions, Montebello park hosts many local favourites such as Rib Fest and The Grape and Wine Festival, where you can indulge in great food and music. If music isn’t your thing, you can catch a Hockey Game at the Meridian Centre, home to the St. Catharines Ice Dogs. Before or after your night out, make sure to stop in at many of the local restaurants downtown offering unique food and drinks, widely sought after in Niagara. With a variety of entertainment options bringing in tourists and locals every day, St. Catharines makes an incredible spot to open or run a business.
Shopping & Culture
Niagara-on-the-Lake sits on the shores of Lake Ontario, offering beautiful views and a peaceful ambiance. It is well known for its shopping and rich culture along with it’s beautiful wine country. Niagara on the Lake presents an “Old Town” feel, though it is packed with modern activities to find and enjoy. Take a stroll downtown via horse and carriage, or enjoy some homemade gelato while you sit by the water. Despite its bold and lively spirit, Niagara-on-the-Lake remains an ideal place to retire. It’s only a short drive away from the excitement of Niagara Falls and has views that can be enjoyed all year round, as the lake freezes over.
Recreation & Leisure Opportunities
Niagara is home to many parks, golf courses, swimming pools, and sports teams making it the perfect place to stay active. Niagara has approximately 32 golf courses to choose from, each with an amazing view in its own right. The Niagara Parks Commission takes great pride in the cleanliness and safety of their parks, including Dufferin Islands where you can stroll past the waterfalls in the summer and enjoy the Festival of Lights in the winter. Rockpoint and Short Hills provincial parks are among popular hiking trails in the region, and Niagara Falls is home to water cruises, zip lining and ropes courses for every adventurer!
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Niagara hosts approximately fourteen million visitors a year offering amazing business opportunities, in addition to incredible agriculture and activity. As one of the seven wonders of the world, the Niagara Region is rich in history and culture, making it clear why so many choose to call it home. The high quality of life paired with the hundreds of experiences to enjoy year-round, make this hybrid of countryside and modern city the place to work and live in 2021.