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Summer is here and we’re so ready to soak up the sun and enjoy our time outdoors. In our opinion, visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake is a must in the summertime. Plan an epic day trip there with our guide. It's the perfect summer destination in the Niagara Region.

About Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL)

NOTL, otherwise known as "the prettiest town in Ontario,"is a pretty spectacular destination in the summer. It’s full of charming streets, Lake Ontario, fabulous architecture, amazing wineries, terrific restaurants, fabulous farms and stunning natural beauty just about everywhere you look. Here’s our guide to spending the perfect summer’s day in NOTL: 

Take a morning stroll and a grab a bite

Start your day with a leisurely stroll down Queen Street in Old Town NOTL. Pop into the Niagara Apothecary, a restored 1869 pharmacy that offers a rare glimpse into Victorian-era medicine.

If you’re hungry for breakfast or a light brunch, The Epicurean has a lovely garden patio and serves classic Canadian breakfasts, gourmet sandwiches and more delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, the Noble Restaurant at the Prince of Wales Hotel offers an elegant setting and great food.

When you’re done with your breakfast, walk over to Queen's Royal Park. It’s located along the Niagara River and offers breathtaking views of Fort Niagara and sailboats on Lake Ontario. 

Enjoy afternoon sun, wine and beauty

Kick off your own NOTL wine adventure with a visit to Peller Estates Winery and Restaurant. They offer award-winning wines, great food and unique experiences like their "10Below Icewine Lounge," a true ice lounge where you can sample Icewine at -10°C, even in the height of summer! 

If you’re in the mood to explore more wineries around town, Trius Winery is a great option that’s known for its beautiful property and exceptional wines. Take the "Trius Tour" for a fun and informative exploration of their winemaking process and a wine tasting in their underground cellar. Their restaurant also features amazing farm-to-table dining so consider it for lunch.

Looking for more? Riverbend Inn & Vineyard is a charming inn which boasts a lovely garden patio where you can enjoy wine tastings with stunning sunset views. Westcott Vineyards is also praised for its seasonal patio and amazing views.

Go on a bike ride

You can rent a bicycle and explore Niagara River Recreation Trail. This paved trail runs along the Niagara River and can connect you to the town’s wineries and historical sites. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the summer weather and see more of the region's beauty at your own pace.

Indulge in sweet treats and farm fare

If you’re feeling hot after all that time under the summer sun, it may be time to indulge in a cool treat. NOTL is home to some fantastic ice cream shops. COWS offers incredible ice cream and is a must-visit. Avondale Dairy Bar offers a wide array of homemade ice cream flavours in a charming, traditional setting. And Il Gelato Di Carlotta handcrafts artisanal gelato with high-quality ingredients.

NOTL is home to some amazing local farms including some where you can pick your own fruit in the summer. Dutchyn Farms is a popular spot for picking peaches, nectarines, plums, and seedless grapes. Parkway Orchards also offers a variety of pick-your-own fruits including cherries, peaches, nectarines, plums, and apples.

Go out for dinner

End your day with an amazing meal on the town. NOTL has a diverse culinary scene, with many restaurants emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients. For an unforgettable dining experience with a view, consider The Winery Restaurant at Peller Estates. Another fantastic restaurant option with a killer view is The Waterfront Restaurant & Lounge at the NOTL Golf Club. If you want a classic NOTL farm-to-table experience, Treadwell Cuisine is excellent and committed to sourcing local ingredients. 

We hope this guide helps you enjoy a perfect summer day in Niagara-on-the-Lake. 

Moving and looking for an apartment in the Niagara Region to call home? Panoramic Properties would love to welcome you home. Please visit our website to browse our available apartments.