by
Elsa Dyck, formerly of Palatine Hill B&B
Retreat
The
Niagara region of Southern Ontario, offers the best of old town charm and hospitality,
in the historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Visitors soon discover that it
is a town rich in historical, architectural and natural beauty. Stroll back
through history at the historical sites and museums. Enjoy the world-class theatre,
fine dining, shopping, award-winning estate wineries and farm markets. Bike
the Niagara Parks Recreational Trail and drive the Niagara Parkway to Niagara
Falls. Take in the many beautiful parks and landscaped gardens of picture-perfect
estate homes and the beautiful heritage buildings.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, recently chosen the "prettiest town in Canada," has a long and distinguished history. Site of the old Neutral Indian village of Onghiara, it was settled at the close of the American Revolution by Loyalists coming to Upper Canada, many of whom had been members of the much feared Butler's Rangers based during the American Revolution at Fort Niagara, then under British control.
In 1781 the British Government purchased land from the Mississaugas. By 1792, Newark -- as it was named by Governor Simcoe -- became the first capital of the newly created colony of Upper Canada, and the legislature met here for five sessions, until Lieutenant-Governor John Graves Simcoe moved the capital to York. The physical appearance of the town, with the exception of the powder magazine at Fort George was virtually erased by the burning of the town by the Americans during the war of 1812.
Rebuilt, Niagara became
an active commercial centre, with a busy shipping and shipbuilding industry,
as well as many shops and warehouses. The beautiful old Victorian homes and
commercial establishments lining the tree-shaded streets attest to the prosperity
of its citizens.
Getting there:
The main routes into Niagara-on-the-Lake are via the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW)
to Hwy.55, also known as Niagara Stone Road, and along the scenic Niagara Parkway.
Both these roads connect with the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie/Buffalo, where most
Americans cross into Canada. The Rainbow Bridge and Queenston/Lewiston Bridge
are other good choices for our American visitors. Click
on the Map, for a closer look at Niagara-on-the-Lake
Where to stay:
The Niagara-on-the-Lake
B&B industry has blossomed in recent years, and boasts some of the finest
accommodations available anywhere. CBBH recommends four, in particular, for particular
guests!
All are within a five-minute drive to downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake.
What to do:
Today, over 200 years after its founding, Niagara-on-the-Lake hums with a different
kind of traffic. Its many attractions include historic sites - Fort George and
the Historical Society Museum, the Shaw Festival with its three theatres, the
marina, our heritage business district for shopping, golf courses, parks and
beautiful farmland, agricultural markets and our world famous Niagara wineries.
Come to the many special events held throughout the year! Take a carriage ride
through the Old Town, or a jet boat up the Niagara River. A short drive along
the scenic Niagara Parkway leads to Queenston Heights and Niagara Falls. Check
out the Butterfly Conservatory at the Niagara Parks Commission site. Our town
attracts thousands of visitors who stroll the old streets, enjoy the comforts
of fine hotels or our charming bed and breakfast homes, dine in our many varied
restaurants, and, if even for a little while, journey back in time to a more
leisurely time - the age of Niagara-on-the-Lake!
Eating well:
Niagara-on-the-Lake is proud to present a diverse selection of dining establishments
for your enjoyment. From casual to fine dining, waterfront to downtown, you
will find a wide choice. Experience fine cuisine in warm winery settings: Terroir
La Cachette, at the Strewn Winery, Hillebrand's Vineyard Café and Peller
Estates Restaurant. Enjoy an elegant meal at the Vintage Inns' restaurants in
Queen's Landing, the Prince of Wales and Pillar and Post Inn. Looking for a
cosy inn atmosphere and traditional fare? Try the Moffat Restaurant & Pub,
the Angel Inn & Pub or the Anchorage Bar & Grill. And for great value,
you can't beat the Epicurean with its casual cafeteria style and outdoor patios.
