Niagara-on-the-Lake Family Activities Guide 2024

Expericnce Niagara on the Lake old town with your family

Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Old Town looks like it’s straight out of a Hallmark movie. With its charming streets, historic buildings, and vibrant flowers, it’s the perfect spot for a family stroll. Cozy cafes, unique shops, and friendly locals make you feel right at home. It’s a magical place that feels like stepping into a storybook, perfect for creating lasting family memories.

Some of the stores you’ll find here are truly one-of-a-kind, like Beau Chapeau, Just Christmas, Maison Apothecare, The Butterfly Gallery, Maple Leaf Fudge, and Serendipity, just to name a few.

From charming horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic Old Town to exploring the Niagara River via bike (rentals available if you don’t have your own), there’s something for everyone.

Enjoy a picnic in one of the many picturesque parks, or embark on a thrilling ghost tour that will enchant older kids and teens. With a variety of activities, tours, and excursions, Niagara-on-the-Lake ensures families can create lasting memories in one of Canada’s most beautiful towns.

One of my personal favorites is spending Canada Day with my parents and dog by the waterside. We grab lunch from a local business, shop around the area, and sometimes take a drive to other spots in NOTL like the Brock Monument (more on that later), getting home just in time for dinner.

Recently, my dad and I started a new tradition of taking the Ghost Walks around Halloween. We coincidentally went on the eve of Halloween, setting the perfect spooky mood for the season’s scariest night!

If your family enjoys thrills and chills (both from ghost stories and the late October weather), this event is perfect for you. Maybe it will become an annual tradition for you, just like it has for me and my dad. Let’s dive into Niagara on the Lake family activities.

The Shaw Theatres

Despite Niagara-on-the-Lake being considered ‘Wine Country,’ there are plenty of activities that don’t involve wine or wineries. A personal favorite of mine is the Shaw Festival. The downtown core of NOTL is home to four performing arts theatres: The Festival Theatre, The Royal George Theatre, The Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre, and The Spiegeltent.

All four theatres are within walking distance. In fact, The Festival Theatre, The Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre, and The Spiegeltent are all located in one building at 10 Queen’s Parade. There’s also a gift shop inside the Festival Theatre, which I discovered only recently despite visiting The Shaw since 2019. Be sure to pop in and browse for any trinkets you might want from your play!

The Royal George Theatre

The Royal George Theatre, located at 85 Queen Street, is my personal favorite. It’s smaller but still spacious, and I’ve attended many plays there, including the annual production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” from November to December. The most recent play I saw there was Agatha Christie’s “Witness for the Prosecution.”

If your family loves theatre, The Shaw Festival is a must-see in Niagara-on-the-Lake. With a mix of classic plays by George Bernard Shaw and modern productions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here is a list of the 2024 Shaw Festival shows:

Get Involved with The Shaw

The festival’s lively shows, hands-on workshops, and kid-friendly performances make it a great way to introduce children to the magic of live theatre. The events at Shaw change often, so it’s wise to always check their website for events, just to name a few events coming up there is Backstage Tours, Early Rehearsals, Gardens and Nature – The Secret Garden Pre-show Workshop, Mini Manners – Workshop and Children’s Tea and many more!

Explore Parks Niagara

Explore the natural beauty and historical significance of Niagara-on-the-Lake through its Parks Canada sites. These well-preserved parks and historical locations offer a unique blend of outdoor adventure and educational opportunities, perfect for families with kids.

Old Town alone boasts fourteen parks, so if one is too busy, there’s always another to explore. For a complete list, visit www.notl.com. All parks are free and family-friendly, with most being spacious green areas. However, some, like Fort George, are more suited for older kids due to their interactive and educational features.

Visit Fort George, where history comes to life with reenactments and exhibits that transport you back to the War of 1812 and also offers musket demonstrations, soldiers’ barracks tours, and hands-on history programs that bring the early 19th century to life. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along scenic trails, and picnic amidst lush landscapes. These parks offer a perfect setting for children to learn about Canada’s heritage while enjoying the outdoors.

Tasting More than just wine

As mentioned, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers more than just wine; it’s a food lover’s paradise with a variety of delicious spots to explore. If you’re looking to taste the town’s culinary delights, here are my top five favourite food places:

Budapest Bakeshop
Kicking off our list is The Budapest Bakeshop at 118 Queen Street. This place specialises in chimney cakes, offering a variety of options from traditional to dessert versions, and even savoury sandwich styles. Indulge in these freshly baked Hungarian treats and enjoy a unique, delicious experience for the whole family.
Pistacchio Gelateria
Next up is Pistacchio Gelateria at 114 Queen Street. My first visit was with Meg before seeing the Agatha Christie play back in April. This cosy, welcoming spot left a great impression. We shared an incredible turkey brie sandwich, and we couldn’t stop talking about how good it was throughout our day in NOTL!
The Garrison House
If you’re looking for a fantastic dining experience in Niagara-on-the-Lake, I highly recommend The Garrison House. I’ve had the pleasure of dining there, and it’s truly a gem. It’s located at 111C, Unit 2 Garrison Village Drive. The cosy, welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for families.

Their menu offers a delightful mix of locally-sourced dishes, and everything I tried was absolutely delicious. The wood-fired pizzas are a standout, with a perfect balance of flavours and a crispy crust that kept us coming back for more.The staff are incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure every meal is memorable. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch, dinner, or just a quick bite, The Garrison House is a must-visit spot that adds a special touch to any day in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Sandtrap Pub & Grill
For a relaxed and enjoyable meal in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Sandtrap Pub & Grill is a fantastic choice. I’ve eaten there a few times, and each visit has been a treat. They are located at 358 Mary Street.

The pub has a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for families looking to unwind after a day of exploring. The menu features a great variety of classic pub fare, from juicy burgers to crispy fish and chips, all prepared to perfection.

The wings are a must-try, packed with flavour and perfectly cooked. The friendly staff always make you feel right at home, adding to the overall great experience. Whether you’re in for a casual lunch or a hearty dinner, Sandtrap Pub & Grill is a wonderful spot to enjoy some delicious food and good company.
The Irish Harp Pub
If you’re in Niagara-on-the-Lake and craving an authentic Irish pub experience, The Irish Harp Pub is the place to go. I’ve had the pleasure of dining there, and it’s quickly become one of my favourites.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with traditional Irish decor that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a pub in Dublin. The menu is filled with hearty, comforting dishes like shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash, each bursting with rich flavours.

My dad loves their Guinness stew. The fish and chips are some of the best I’ve ever had. The live music adds a lively touch, making it a fun spot for the whole family. The staff are friendly and make sure you have everything you need for a great meal. The Irish Harp Pub is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy great food and a fantastic atmosphere in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Beyond Old Town

Beyond Old Town, there are countless other places to explore in Niagara-on-the-Lake, making it an exciting tradition to try somewhere new each visit. Venturing beyond the heart of town opens up a plethora of delightful discoveries.

Avondale Dairy Bar
As the summer months approach, a must-visit local favorite to cool down is the Avondale Dairy Bar, located at 461 Stewart Road. This popular ice cream spot offers a nostalgic step back in time, nestled in a charming rural setting perfect for family visits. The dairy bar exudes an old-fashioned ice cream parlour vibe, with outdoor seating overlooking scenic farmland, providing a relaxing backdrop for enjoying delicious treats.

The casual, friendly atmosphere is ideal for families to unwind and savor their treats. Additionally, watching the cows in the nearby fields adds an educational and entertaining element for children, making Avondale Dairy Bar a quintessential kid-friendly destination. The combination of high-quality ice cream, a picturesque setting, and a welcoming environment makes it a standout choice for anyone visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake.
MJ’s Own Munchies
Mj’s is located at 406 Lakeshore Road, St. Catharines, it is just before you enter NOTL from the canal. It’s a fantastic spot for a tasty and casual family meal. This charming eatery is known for its cosy and inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a family outing.

The menu offers a variety of comfort foods that kids and adults alike will enjoy, including mouth-watering burgers, crispy fries, and delicious hot dogs. A personal favourite of mine is their Nacho Bag!

One of the highlights for kids is the wide selection of fun and creative snack options, perfect for satisfying any craving. The friendly staff at MJ’s Own Munchies go out of their way to make sure families feel welcome, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for everyone.
Bugsy’s
Bugsy’s is located at 33 Lakeshore Road in St. Catharines, is a great place for a family-friendly meal near Niagara-on-the-Lake. The pub offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere that caters to both adults and kids. The menu is diverse, featuring everything from hearty pub classics like burgers and wings to healthier options like salads and wraps.

Kids will particularly enjoy the fun, casual vibe and the variety of tasty dishes to choose from. The staff at Bugsy’s are always friendly and attentive, making sure families feel right at home. The spacious setting and laid-back ambiance make it easy for families to relax and enjoy their time together. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Bugsy’s is a fantastic choice for a kid-friendly dining experience.

Popular Spots

Speaking of places outside the old town there’s some places that families like to check out in NOTL.

Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm
A summer staple to Niagara locals. Located at 650 Read Road, St. Catharines, Happy Rolph’s is just before you drive into Niagara On The Lake, so it’s added in this little guide. That being said, Happy Rolph’s is a cosy park with an animal viewing area, playground & picnic pavilion, plus walking trails, ponds and a gorgeous view of Lake Ontario. On clear days if you look really hard you can see Toronto!
Port Dalhousie (Dal-lou-see)
Also in St.Catharines we have Port Dalhousie, in which houses the Lakeside Carousel, a very popular attraction for kids and adults alike! With 68 animals to choose from there is a ride for everyone – even a sleigh should you have a little one with you. Some of the animals are stationary, and some move up and down. I have very fond memories of going on this ride growing up! It is five cents a ride or entry by donations.

This historic carousel, a Charles I.D. Looff original, was hand carved from 1898 to 1905 and is a historic part of St.Catharines history. Did you know that The Lakeside Park Carousel is one of approximately 350 antique hand-carved carousels still operating in North America – only nine of which are in Canada? Despite how old the ride is, you’d never know because it is maintained often and is probably even safer than when it was put up!
Queenston Heights
Back in NOTL we have the Queenston Heights, more specifically the Brock Monument, which is a 56-metre column dedicated to Major General Sir Isaac Brock, one of Canada’s heroes of the War of 1812. This area also has public washrooms open all year round, which is great for kids (and adults too, who am I kidding?). This is a great spot for photos and picnics, both of which I have done since I was a little girl.
The Living Water Wayside Chapel
Another popular place is a small roadside stop but worth it for photos, or a bit longer if you decide to browse the Walker’s Country Market next door, however this is a wide open grassy area to let your kids run around and tire themselves out before getting back into the car.

This place is none other than The Living Water Wayside Chapel. It is often said to be one of, if not, the smallest church in the world. This sweet little place is located at 15796 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Are you ready to bring your kids to Niagara on the Lake?

As you can see, Niagara-on-the-Lake is brimming with exciting and enriching activities for families with kids. From captivating theatrical performances and historical adventures to exploring the great outdoors and indulging in delightful local treats, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, this charming town offers countless opportunities to create unforgettable family memories. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to experience the magic of Niagara-on-the-Lake with your loved ones!

We’d love to hear from you! Have you discovered other hidden gems or fun activities in Niagara-on-the-Lake that we didn’t mention?

Share your favourite family-friendly spots and experiences with us in the comments below, or connect with us on social media. Your insights and ideas can help other families make the most of their visit. Let’s keep the conversation going and inspire more unforgettable adventures!

Virtual Roots Agency