15 Best Romantic Things to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Romantic Things to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake
If you are looking for romantic things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake, then you have come to the right place! Located in the heart of Ontario’s wine country, this charming town is the perfect place for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in some quality time together.
Now that our kids are getting older, it’s a little easier for Hubby and I to escape for a romantic weekend. And one of our absolute favourite places to visit is Niagara-on-the-Lake.
In fact, you couldn’t ask for a more romantic place than the Niagara region. With its gorgeous old-town charm, wonderful architecture, incredible wineries, and an awesome foodie scene, your romantic getaway will practically plan itself!
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our list of the best romantic things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake!
Best Romantic Things to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake
1. Stay in a Vintage Hotel
If you are planning a romantic trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake, then we really recommend staying in a luxurious vintage hotel. And with 4 choices right in the heart of town and 2 in nearby Jordan, you may have a hard time deciding which you like best!
Our favourite is the Pillar & Post. Located just minutes from downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake, this vintage hotel offers the whole package!
Not only are the rooms cozy, with fireplace suites available. But they also have an awesome on-site spa, restaurant, lounge, indoor and outdoor pool, and an outdoor hot tub.
We also thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Queen’s Landing. Our comfortable suite had an awesome fireplace as well as a view of the lake.
We also enjoyed an included breakfast the next morning in the dining room. The Queen’s Landing is also just a short walk from downtown.
Located right in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, you can’t overlook the convenience of staying at the Prince of Wales Hotel.
The hotel is situated directly across the street from Simcoe Park, and adjacent to all the unique shops. You can’t ask for a better location.
The Prince of Wales Hotel has a spa, an indoor pool with a hot tub, and an awesome on-site restaurant. The hotel is spread over 5 buildings that are connected by walkways.
Whichever of the vintage hotels you choose, they all offer luxurious rooms, fantastic dining experiences, spa treatments, and a wonderfully romantic ambiance!
🏨 Find the best deals on all Niagara-on-the-Lake hotels here.
2. Enjoy the Stars While Soaking in a Hot Tub
Another reason to spend the night at the Pillar and Post Hotel is for their outdoor spa. No matter what time of the year you are visiting, nothing could be more romantic than soaking in a hot tub under the stars.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, this is a great way to spend a romantic evening.
And you don’t have to worry about the hot tub being overcrowded. The Pillar & Post requires reservations to be made on a first-come-first-served basis, thus limiting the number of people in the spa.
3. Relax with a Couples’ Spa Treatment
If you’re looking for a relaxing and romantic activity to enjoy with your partner in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a couples’ spa treatment is definitely worth considering.
The area is home to several world-class spas and wellness centers, offering a range of rejuvenating treatments and services that are perfect for an afternoon of pampering and reconnecting with your sweetheart.
In fact, each of the vintage hotels has its very own spa, making it very convenient to indulge in a treatment or two during your stay!
From luxurious massages and facials to hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, and more, there are plenty of options to choose from to suit your preferences and budget.
Many of the spas also offer special packages and deals for couples, such as champagne and chocolates, private suites, and other indulgent extras.
4. Enjoy the Small-Town Ambiance While Strolling Down Queen Street
One of the best ways to experience the charm and beauty of Niagara-on-the-Lake is by taking a leisurely stroll down Queen Street.
Lined with historic buildings, quaint shops, and cozy cafes, this picturesque street captures the essence of small-town life and offers plenty to see and do.
You can browse the local boutiques for handmade crafts and gifts, sample artisanal chocolates and gelato, or simply soak up the atmosphere and people-watch from a sidewalk cafe.
Along the way, you’ll also encounter numerous historic landmarks, such as the Court House, the Apothecary Museum, and the Voices of Freedom Park. Each has its own fascinating stories and insights into the town’s rich history.
So, whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon activity or a romantic evening stroll, Queen Street is definitely worth a visit.
5. Savour the Local Flavours on a Wine-Tasting Tour
One of our favourite romantic things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake is a wine tour. I mean, especially if you are not from around here, you can’t come to this incredible wine region without heading out to a vineyard!
Aside from the awesome tours that are available throughout the year, Niagara-on-the-Lake also has several months of the year when they do special-themed wine tours. These tours offer food and wine pairings, are self-guided, and are something you should definitely consider.
In fact, Hubby and I time our romantic fall weekend getaway to coincide with one of these events – the Taste the Season. The event allows you to purchase a “couple’s passport” for 8 visits to any participating wineries.
We choose to split our visits over the 2 or 3 days we are in town. However, technically you have the entire month that the event is running to use up your visits.
You choose which ones you would like to visit, then book which dates you are interested in, and away you go. The descriptions of the wine and food offered at each winery are listed on the event’s website, so it’s easy to decide what you would like to try.
Some of the other wine-tasting events include Chocolate & Cheese in February and Sip & Sizzle in May.
6. Shop for Treasures in Downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake
When visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake, you don’t want to miss out on shopping in the downtown area. Give yourself plenty of time to browse in all the awesome little shops.
There are some amazing clothing boutiques, ice cream shops, housewares, restaurants, and other specialty shops, just to name a few! And the best part is, most of these shops are family-owned and run, and sell locally made products.
You could easily spend the better part of a day shopping in downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake. And for your convenience, behind the main street and courthouse, you will find large, clean public washroom facilities with all the amenities.
7. Enjoy a Romantic Picnic in the Park
Simcoe Park is located a few minutes walk from the main downtown area. The park is quite large, with plenty of shady spots to set up your picnic.
You will also find public washrooms, gorgeous flowers, plenty of green space, a bandshell, and picnic tables. This is the perfect place for a romantic picnic or just a place to relax and unwind between shopping trips.
Parking is located along the perimeter of the park. This makes it pretty convenient to grab your cooler or picnic basket, and any other gear you may have brought along.
8. Take a Bicycle Tour of Niagara-On-The-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a great place to go for a romantic bike ride! Why not pack yourself a blanket and a small picnic and head out for a ride on the wonderful trails in the area?
Heading out along the Niagara River Parkway, you will find a separate bicycle path tucked away from the roadway. There, you will come across picnic tables, amazing views of the Niagara River, as well as a variety of historical sites.
And don’t fret if you didn’t bring along your bicycles! There are several options you can choose from!
Your first option is to take a guided bike tour. These are usually wine or beer tours and may require advanced reservations.
These small group tours are a great option if you want to learn about the history of Niagara-on-the-Lake while sampling some of the best wines and beer in the region.
🍷 Purchase your tickets for a guided Wine and Cheese Bicycle Tour here.
You can also choose to rent a bike and just explore the area on your own. There are several Zoom bike share locations in and around town, where you can rent a bike by the day or half-day.
These bikes are well-maintained, convenient, and a great option for an impromptu ride with your sweetheart.
9. Share a Gelato on an Outdoor Patio
Niagara-on-the-Lake is filled with small cafes, bistros and other eateries that have quaint outdoor patios.
If you are in town on a beautiful day, there is nothing better than sipping a coffee or sharing a gelato, while enjoying the weather and people-watching on a patio.
In fact, many of the restaurants also have patios that are lit and heated. So, if you wanted to upgrade to a glass of wine or even a meal, that would be a wonderfully romantic opportunity.
10. Book a Couple’s Photoshoot
If your romantic Niagara-on-the-Lake getaway is to celebrate a special occasion, why not commemorate it with a couple’s photoshoot?
Niagara-on-the-Lake has a ton of romantic locations, both within the town, or just on the outskirts, that would be the perfect location for some gorgeous photography.
Whether you are looking for a waterfront sunset shot at Queen’s Royal Park (see below), or photos of you strolling through a picturesque vineyard, the sky is the limit.
There are a ton of local photographers that you can look into for your session. We would recommend taking a look at their portfolios, and seeing if their photos align with your vision for the shoot.
Since many photographers are booked well in advance, especially for summer weekends, we would also recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.
11. Have a Fireside Dinner at the Cannery Restaurant
The Cannery Restaurant is located inside the Pillar & Post Hotel. It is one of the most romantic restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Not only is the food incredible, but the ambiance and the fact that you can book a fireside table, make it a must-have experience on a romantic getaway.
Dress up or go casual, it’s totally up to you. And with a menu that includes prime rib, braised short ribs, lamb gnocchi, mushroom risotto, butter tarts, tiramisu, and an entire menu of ice wines, you really can’t go wrong.
There are a few vegan and vegetarian options on the menu but would enquire further if you have any dietary restrictions. I was happy to find out that there was a non-dairy milk option for my coffee afterwards!
12. Catch a Show at the Shaw Festival
One of the must-do activities when visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake is catching a show at the Shaw Festival. The festival was founded in 1962 and was dedicated to the works of George Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries.
Running from April to December, the annual festival presents a diverse lineup of plays, musicals, and other performances across its three theatres. The Shaw Festival features talented actors, directors, and designers from across Canada and beyond.
The festival’s productions are known for their high quality and engaging storytelling, and there’s always something new and exciting to see.
Whether you’re a fan of classic theatre or you’re just looking for a fun and unique night out, catching a show at the Shaw Festival is definitely worth adding to your romantic Niagara-on-the-Lake itinerary.
13. Relax on a Romantic Carriage Ride
If you are looking for a cozy and romantic way to see the town, then look no further than a horse-drawn carriage ride through Niagara-on-the-Lake.
The carriages conveniently depart from outside the Prince of Wales Hotel, located in the center of the downtown area. They run rain or shine, all year long.
The Sentineal Carriages can be booked for different lengths of time. You can choose rides from 15 minutes up to 1 hour; making it easy to book around your schedule and budget.
Reservations can be made ahead of time, or they can also do walk-ups depending on availability. However, we would strongly advise booking a reservation, especially if you are visiting on a summer weekend, or during a holiday.
This experience should definitely be on your list of romantic things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The drivers are knowledgeable about the history of the town, so it’s a great way to sit back and soak up some local history!
14. Watch the Sunset from the Gazebo at Queens Royal Park
Just a few minutes walk from the downtown area, off Ricardo Street, you will find the gazebo at Queen’s Royal Park.
Not only is the gazebo a popular draw for thousands of visitors each year but it is rented out for wedding ceremonies throughout the summer as well.
And with a crystal-clear view of the Niagara River, Fort Niagara in Youngstown, Lake Ontario, and even the Toronto skyline, it’s the perfect place to enjoy an evening stroll and to watch an incredible sunset.
As we mentioned, the gazebo is incredibly popular during the day. But don’t worry, we have never found it to be busy during the evening.
Fun Fact: After its use as a prop in the 1982 David Cronenberg film, The Dead Zone, starring Christopher Walken and Martin Sheen, the gazebo was donated to the town. It has been kept in good condition ever since.
15. Go for a Midnight Firelit Swim
Another great reason to stay at the Pillar & Post for your romantic Niagara-on-the-Lake getaway is to be able to use their outdoor pool at night. The pool is fully heated, so even if you are visiting during the winter, you are able to use it!
The pool has an awesome built-in waterfall with a fire feature that is just fabulous and romantic! Patio heaters, thick towels, and loungers are also provided poolside.
What could be more romantic than a swim under the stars?
Is Niagara-on-the-Lake Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming and picturesque town that offers plenty to see and do.
From strolling along the quaint streets and admiring the historic buildings to exploring the numerous shops, galleries, and restaurants, there’s something for everyone here.
The town’s natural beauty is also a major draw, with stunning views of the Niagara River.
And of course, Niagara-on-the-Lake is famous for its wine. With over 90 wineries producing delicious and award-winning wines, it will be difficult to decide which ones to visit first!
So, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a wine lover, Niagara-on-the-Lake is definitely worth a visit!
How Do You Get to Niagara-on-the-Lake?
Only about an hour and a half from Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a pretty easy drive.
You would need to head west on the Gardiner Expressway until you get on the Niagara-bound Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW). Take the QEW until you hit Regional Rd 89 in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Once you are in the area, there are so many great places to visit. There are also a ton of awesome things to do, all within a short drive from one another.
🚗 Need to rent a car? Find the best deals at RentalCars here.
How Many Days Do You Need in Niagara-on-the-Lake?
The amount of time you need to spend in Niagara-on-the-Lake largely depends on your interests and what you want to see and do. We would recommend a minimum of 2 days for a romantic getaway.
If you’re primarily interested in exploring the town itself, strolling along the streets, visiting the shops and galleries, and enjoying the local cuisine and wine, then a day trip or a weekend getaway might be sufficient.
However, if you are visiting for the first time and want the whole Niagara-on-the-Lake experience, then you may want to consider spending 3-4 days or more.
This would give you enough time to explore the town, visit some of the wineries, and maybe even venture out to nearby attractions like Niagara Falls.
Niagara-on-the-Lake – FAQs
If you want a quieter, more romantic getaway with plenty of wineries and picturesque scenery, then Niagara-on-the-Lake is the better choice. The gorgeous ambience and small-town feel are far more romantic than the hustle and bustle of Niagara Falls.
The most famous and popular street in Niagara-on-the-Lake is Queen Street, which is the town’s main thoroughfare and is lined with charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
Yes, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a very walkable town, with most of its attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a compact area. Walking is a great way to explore the town’s charming streets, historic sites, and beautiful waterfront.
While having a car in Niagara-on-the-Lake can be helpful for exploring the surrounding area and wineries, it’s not strictly necessary if you’re planning to stay in the town itself.
As mentioned earlier, Niagara-on-the-Lake is very walkable, and there are also plenty of bike rentals, local tours, and taxi services available. If you’re planning on visiting nearby attractions like Niagara Falls or some of the region’s wineries, a car may be more convenient, but it’s not a must-have.
Uber does operate in the Niagara-on-the-Lake region, as well as other ride-sharing services like Lyft. However, availability may be limited compared to larger cities, so it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and check availability before relying on these services for transportation.
Yes, the tap water in Niagara-on-the-Lake is safe to drink, as it meets all the provincial drinking water quality standards. The town’s water comes from Lake Ontario and is treated before it’s distributed to residents and visitors.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is great for wine due to its unique microclimate and soil conditions that create the ideal environment for growing high-quality grapes with complex flavours, resulting in delicious and award-winning wines. With over 90 wineries in the region, Niagara-on-the-Lake has become a popular destination for wine enthusiasts from around the world.
While some wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake allow walk-ins for wine tastings, it’s generally recommended to make reservations in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak tourist season.
Making reservations ahead of time ensures that you’ll have a spot at the winery and can help avoid disappointment if the winery is fully booked. Additionally, some wineries may require reservations for specific types of tastings, such as group or private tastings, so it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is known for producing a variety of wines, including white wines like Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as red wines like Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.
However, the region is perhaps most famous for its ice wine, which is made from grapes that have been left on the vine until winter and then harvested and pressed while still frozen. The resulting wine is sweet and rich, with flavours of honey, apricot, and tropical fruit, and is highly sought-after by wine enthusiasts around the world.
Yes. Queen’s Royal Beach is the only public swimming beach on the Niagara River, located in the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake at the foot of King Street.
Still Looking for That Perfect Place to Stay on Your Romantic Getaway?
Best Vintage Hotel for a Romantic Getaway in Niagara-on-the-Lake
💕 The Pillar & Post is the best vintage hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake, with a ton of romantic amenities!
Final Thoughts on the Most Romantic Things to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake
There you have it! Our list of the best romantic things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake! Hopefully, this post has given you some inspiration for your next romantic getaway or date night in this beautiful town.
From sipping wine in a scenic vineyard to strolling hand-in-hand along the waterfront, Niagara-on-the-Lake has something for every type of couple.
So why not plan a trip today and see for yourself why this charming town is known as one of Canada’s most romantic destinations?
We’d love to hear about your favourite romantic things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake!
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