9+ Comforting Things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake This Winter
Niagara-on-the-Lake may be known for its summer charm, but this picturesque historic town truly shines in the winter. From quaint shops to frosty outdoor adventures, fireside wine flights and pampering, it’s the perfect destination for a winter escape.
While it is cold, you’ll find better deals, way less crowds, and lots of things to do right at your fingertips. Plus, Niagara-on-the-Lake transforms into a postcard-perfect town during the winter. It’s known as one of the most beautiful towns in Canada, and resembles a set right out of a Hallmark movie!
One of my favourite things to do during the winter in Niagara is stopping by this lovely little town, so if you’re looking for a winter getaway in Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake should be a top contender!
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1. Stroll and Shop on Queen Street
Queen Street in historic Niagara-on-the-Lake turns into a magical scene during the winter. The charming boutique shops are dressed up and are perfect for finding unique gifts, artisan crafts, and delightful keepsakes.
Warm up with a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate from one of the quaint cafes, like Balzac’s! If you’re looking for a snack to tide you over, head to Budapest Bake Shop for their amazing chimney cakes, Doughvine Bakehouse, or Nina Gelateria & Bake Shop, all found around Queen Street.
If you’re visiting with kids (or are just a kid at heart!) and if they’re anything like my niece, gelato and ice cream are considered a year-round treat! Cow’s Creamery and Il Gelato di Carlotta are her favourites.
December is my favourite time to visit, and if you happen to come then too, you’ll see the beautiful Christmas decorations adorning every corner—pure postcard perfection! Pick out the perfect Christmas ornament at Just Christmas (which is open year round!), stop by Maple Leaf Fudge for the best fudge I’ve ever eaten, or pop by Greaves to pick out tasty preserves.
There are so many eclectic shops to stop into, so whether you’re looking for a gift for a loved one, or yourself (!) you’re bound to find something unique.
Navigating Niagara tip: Parking in Niagara-on-the-Lake is free during the month of December. Otherwise, parking close to Queen Street ranges from $5.00 – $5.50 an hour (and is enforced from 10 am – 8 pm).
2. Sip on Wine & Icewine at a Local Winery
Winter is a fantastic time to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake’s world-renowned wineries. For me, one of the best parts is enjoying wineries without the crowds. Yes, you won’t be able to enjoy the outdoor experience as you would during the warmer months, but visiting on a winter day is peaceful and a great way to spend an hour or two. There have been many times we’ve sat and sampled a variety of wines, had some snacks, and just enjoyed the ambience on a lazy Sunday.
As snow blankets the vineyards, indulge in rich reds, crisp whites, and the region’s iconic icewine, made from grapes frozen on the vine. After all, winter is icewine season, so I recommend giving it a try! If you’ve had icewine in the past and didn’t like it, I suggest giving it another try. They’ve come a LONG way and is such an enjoyable treat.
Looking for something truly unique? Check out Peller Estates’ Greatest Winery Tour, where your tasting experience is in Niagara’s only igloo-like lounge – the 10Below Icewine Lounge! This incredible lounge is made from 13,500 kg of ice and is kept at a cool -10º.
Or, if you want to really experience a Canadian winter, check out Konzelmann’s Fireside Flight Tasting Experience, where you’ll be cozied up next to a private fire table and treated to a tasting flight with a sweet and savoury s’mores board!
You can also book a Vineyard Dome Experience in a heated dome overlooking the vineyard while enjoying a tasting paired with locally-sourced charcuterie.
3. Glide Into Outdoor Skating Fun
Bundle up and hit the ice at one of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s outdoor skating rinks! Head to Wayne Gretzky Estates, where you can skate while you’re surrounded by vineyards. Admission is $5/person and skate rentals are available for $10/pair. It’s an amazing way to spend an afternoon, especially if you pair your experience with a wine tasting and pizza on their heated outdoor Whiskey Bar Patio.
In the historic part of Niagara-on-the-Lake, head to Pillar and Post. They have a huge outdoor garden that’s free to visit called The Gardens. It offers a beautiful backdrop and it’s entirely free to skate there! Rentals are $5/pair. Cozy up next to a fire pit and warm up with hot drinks and snacks afterwards for a perfect winter day out!
4. Take a Winter Walk
Crisp air, crunching snow, and scenic views make winter walks in NOTL an absolute joy. Stroll along the Niagara River Recreation Trail or explore the historic streets lined with heritage homes. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a light dusting of snow—perfect for photos!
You can also join a free walking tour (well worth doing!!) or go on a guided ghost walk; after all, Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of the most haunted places in Niagara!
For the more adventurous, the Bruce Trail begins at Queenston Heights. You can also hike the same path Laura Secord took (called the Laura Secord Legacy Trail) on her epic journey from her home in Queenston all the way to Thorold (in nothing but shoes resembling ballet slippers!!!).
I love the self-guided War of 1812 trail at Queenston Heights. There are numerous lookout points and interesting pieces of history to be found here and takes about 45 minutes to complete.
Navigating Niagara fun fact: The birthplace of Niagara Falls is located at Queenston Heights! It marks the original location of the Falls thousands of years ago. Around 12,000 years ago, after the last Ice Age, the Falls began forming near Queenston, where Lake Erie drained into the Niagara River. Over millennia, erosion caused the Falls to migrate upstream to their current location.
5. Indulge in a Spa Day
Need a little R&R? Treat yourself to a luxurious spa day to ward away the winter chill. At 100 Fountain Spa at the Pillar and Post, indulge in a hot stone massage or a soak in the indoor saltwater pool or heated outdoor hot spring pool that will melt away any winter blues. Add in a glass of local wine for the ultimate relaxation.
For something a bit different, check out the Spa at Q at 124 on Queen. On top of traditional spa services, you’ll also find a hydrotherapy circuit, a halotherapy salt lounge, sensory showers, eucalyptus steam room, and even a snow room! I’m a huge fan of a good hydrotherapy circuit and they leave you feeling so refreshed and relaxed!
6. Enjoy World-Class Restaurants & Comfort Food
Warm up with a hearty meal at one of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s amazing restaurants. For farm-to-table dining, Treadwell Cuisine is a standout for its locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes. I also love HobNob Restaurant at The Charles Hotel. Their dining room is gorgeous and there’s a cozy bar and lounge, all under the roof of a Victorian manor. Pair your meal with a local wine, and you’ve got yourself a winter feast to remember.
For comfort classics, the Olde Angel Inn and the Irish Harp Pub are local favourites. You’ll find shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, steak & onion pie, and hearty stews. What better way to warm up on a brisk winter day?
7. Indulge in Afternoon Tea
Escape the winter chill with afternoon tea in Niagara-on-the-Lake! Indulge in warm scones, finger sandwiches, and decadent desserts while sipping on premium teas. The historic Prince of Wales Hotel and HobNob Restaurant offer a cozy, elegant setting that feels like stepping back in time.
It’s a delightful way to unwind, stay warm, and treat yourself. Perfect for a winter date or a girls’ day out!
8. Catch a Holiday Show at the Shaw Festival
The Shaw Festival Theatre brings holiday cheer with its seasonal performances in December. Catch A Christmas Carol (until December 22nd) as the perfect annual reminder of what Christmas spirit is all about.
It’s a magical way to wrap up your visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake and a great way to get into the festive spirit.
9. Attend Winter Events
Keep an eye on the calendar for special winter events in Niagara-on-the-Lake. From candlelit strolls to wine festivals, there’s always something happening. The Icewine Festival in January is a highlight, featuring tastings, culinary pairings, and live entertainment.
While winter is Niagara-on-the-Lake’s quiet season, there’s a ton going on!
🎄 Candlelight Stroll
Kick off the holidays with the magical tradition of the Candlelight Stroll! Grab a candle, wander through Old Town’s festive streets, and enjoy live carolers surrounded by sparkling decorations. Pure holiday charm!
When: December 6, 2024 from 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm beginning at the Old Court House
🏠NOTL Rotary Holiday House Tour
Peek inside six stunning homes and heritage properties decked out in full holiday splendour! All proceeds from the Rotary Holiday Hour Tour support local charities, so it’s festive and feel-good fun. Plus, enjoy complimentary wine samples and discounted lunches at participating locations! This event almost always sells our early, so grab your tickets when you can!
When: December 6 & 7, 2024
✨Merry & Bright Christmas Tour at the McArthur Estate
Step into a holiday wonderland at the stunning McArthur Estate! The Merry & Bright Christmas Tour offers you the chance to explore dazzling Christmas displays, beautifully decorated rooms, and twinkling lights that capture the magic of the season. It’s like stepping into a winter snow globe!
When: December 6th & 7th, 2024. 1 hour tours starting at various times.
🎅 Santa Claus Parade
Bundle up for this jolly parade! Watch Santa himself and a lineup of festive floats roll through Old Town, spreading holiday cheer for all.
When: December 14, 2024
❄️Icewine Festival
Celebrate what Niagara is known for – icewine! Sample this liquid gold and food pairings at the annual Niagara Icewine Festival with a Discovery Pass or hit the Icewine Village on Queen Street for fire pits, live music, and frosty fun. Don’t miss the Cool As Ice Gala in Niagara Falls – a truly unique evening located at the Niagara Parks Power Station!
When: January 10–26, 2025
🍫Chocolate & Cheese
Wine, chocolate, and cheese—oh my! This incredible Chocolate & Cheese event is a self-guided tour that lets you indulge in your choice of 20 wineries’ tastiest pairings. The perfect winter treat! Tasting passes like these are my favourite way to experience what different wineries have to offer. Grab your pass starting January 1st!
When: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in February
Navigating Niagara tip: If you’re looking for something to do nearby, don’t forget to check out the Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls, on until January 5th, 2025! Over 8 km and 3 million twinkling lights are on display! Warm up with the Hot Chocolate Trail for a perfect evening in Niagara Falls during the winter!
Niagara-on-the-Lake in winter is all about cozy vibes, delicious flavours, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re strolling Queen Street admiring the shops, skating surrounded by vineyards, sipping icewine by a roaring fire, or enjoying a comforting meal, you’ll find the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Start planning your winter getaway today!
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