The Other Side of Niagara...

When you think of Niagara, you immediately think of the 12,000 year old massive white waterfalls...

...and of course, considering that they are one of the seven natural wonders of the world, how could you not?

Something else? Marriage, of course.

Marriage has been associated with Niagara for years. But what many people don’t realize is that there is more to Niagara than the famous Falls.

The Niagara region is a spectacular resort destination with a plethora of things to do (besides see the waterfall (which IS spectacular, by the way), or get married (which you CAN do on the Canadian side of the Border!)).

The Niagara Region includes the Falls (of course) and the Falls communities, the Niagara River (which only flows between two of the Great Lakes: Lake Erie and Lake Ontario), several communities on or near the river, the area on the shores of Lake Ontario where the river enters the Great Lake (a short eleven or so miles away), and, on the Canadian side, many of the communities located within the Niagara Peninsula. The area has more than 40 world-class golf, some 70 award-winning wineries, several National Parks and/or State Parks, great theatre, historical treasures, museums, art galleries, world-class dining, antique shopping, and more! It also boasts connections to two Great Lakes, so when it comes to recreation on the water, the Niagara Region can compete with just about anybody (at least in the Summertime).

Niagara-on-the-Lake (on the Canadian Side of the Niagara River, and on the shores of Lake Ontario) is a small historic town offering culture, rich heritage, breathtaking beauty, gentle climate, and many amenities, including elegant hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, exquisite shops, world-class theatre and lush orchards.

Directly across the river from Niagara-on-the-Lake (on the U.S. side) is Youngstown, New York, a village of 2,000, located about 11 miles north of Niagara Falls, NY (and also on the shores of Lake Ontario). It is part of the Town of Porter and is best known for Fort Niagara State Park, and as the training area for the New York Army National Guard.

STAY

There are a variety of hotels, motels, and inns - all with a view of the falls. The Konica Minolta Tower (6732 Fallsview Blvd.) is one great choice, and boasts an observation deck at 500 feet, offering a spectacular view of the Falls, and the entire Niagara Region. Atop this giant tower is the award-winning Pinnacle Restaurant providing an exceptional gourmet menu to suit every taste, and an elegant panoramic view of the falls.

Vintage Hotels is another great option, with three distinctive, Four-Diamond Victorian properties. QUEEN'S LANDING offers a Georgian-style elegance and gracious service in a spectacular waterfront setting. Whether it is a romantic getaway or business endeavor. Queens Landing can accommodate all. PRINCE OF WALES, located on Queens Road in Niagara-on-the-Lake, is an oasis of Victorian elegance. This hotel was named after future George V who visited it in 1901, and lets each guest experience the sophistication and refinement of that long past, but not forgotten time period. The PILLAR AND POST, third of the Vintage Hotels, is known for its country charm. It was built in the late 1890s as a canning factory, and has since been transformed into a stunning five-star hotel. With bright skylights and terra cotta tile floors this hotel has the relaxed elegance for any family vacation or business trip.

Harbour House (85 Melville Street) offers a unique alternative to the existing larger hotels and smaller B&B’s. The staff takes pride is creating a stay that will cradle you in luxury, with king-sized beds, fireplaces, whirlpool baths and complete entertainment centres right at your fingertips in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

TOURING WINE COUNTRY

On the Canadian side of the river is Niagara’s Wine Country – a stunningly beautiful area that includes over 140 wineries. Whether you take a stroll down the country roads to see some of the vineyards, or take a guided tour through one or more of the vineyards; the aromas, flavors and views of Niagara’s Wine Country will seduce your senses. As the locals say “making wine is not what we do, it’s who we are.” Some of our favorite vineyards include: Jackson-Triggs (2145 Niagara Stone Road), Innskillin Wines (Service Road 66 of the Parkway), Pellar Estates (290 John Street East), and Chateau des Charmes Wines (1025 York Road).

ENTERTAINMENT

The Shaw Theatre is one of the world’s finest theatre companies, and its internationally celebrated Shaw Festival features vivid and exhilarating productions of plays by Bernard Shaw.

Looking for rollercoaster excitement and thrills? You must visit Whirpool Jet Boat Tours. Don’t let these boats fool you; they have Hamilton 321 Jet engines, creating an impressive 1500 Horsepower that can propel you through the Class 5 rapids of the famous ‘Devil’s Rapids’. To quote the captain “It’s happy hour time! Always, all you can drink.” Is he ever right! This is not a trip for the faint hearted.

If you like Illusion and Magic, you must see the international Grand Champion of Magic - Greg Frewin. The Greg Frewin Dinner Theatre is a 700-seat dinner theatre presenting daily shows that will take your breath away. Cages, Fire, Showgirls, and Beautiful Tigers are only a part of the excitement that will mystify and move you in this Las Vegas style Magic and Illusion Show.

DINING

Vintage Hotels offer three award-winning dining experiences featuring flavors from around the world. Choose between Escabeche at The Prince of Wales with its Victorian Elegance, Tiara at Queens Landing with a picture perfect waterfront setting, or Cannery and Carriage at the Pillar and Post, with their menu of classic family favorites.

And if these are not enough, take a look at some other great restaurant options, including: The Buttery Theatre Restaurant, 19 Queens Street, 905-468-2564; Stone Road Grille, 238 Mary Street (in the Garrison Plaza), 905-468-3474; Irish Harp, 245 King Street, 905-468-4443; Zees Patio & Grill, 92 Picton Street, 905-468-5715; Hillebrand Vineyard Café, 1249 Niagara Stone Road, 800-582-8412; Estia Restaurant, 65 Queen Street, 905-468-7877

NIGHTLIFE

Niagara’s Gay Hot Spot is The Breeze Martini Bar & Guest House located at 4776 Bridge Street. With Leather Night on Thursday, Martini Night on Friday, Party-Pick Up Night on Saturday, and Tea Dances on Sunday, you’ll have all the music, dancing, and boys you could possibly want. And if you don’t want to leave, you don’t have too! They have guest rooms available for you (and any new friend you may meet).

The NEW Vouz - Club Rendevouz Bar & Restaurant, located at 151 Queenston Street in St. Catherines, is Niagara’s longest gay-owned and operated business. With cabaret events, dinner buffets, movie nights, free pool nights, and karaoke, you’ll be sure to find something (or someone) just right for you.