Welcome to the final post of our Explore Niagara Series! Last but not least, we’re exploring the most quaint and picturesque corner of the region: Niagara-on-the-Lake! Known for its historic sites, boutique shopping, and charming streets, this stop is a must-do when visiting Niagara. Whether you’re in town for an afternoon or making it a weekend getaway, here’s how we recommend spending your time.
In case you missed our favourite hidden gems in Niagara Falls and Pelham:
Week 1: Tastes & Trails in Niagara Falls
Week 2: A Sweet Summer Day in Pelham
Step Back in Time at Fort George
📍 Location: 51 Queen’s Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Kick off your Niagara-on-the-Lake adventure at one of Canada’s most important historic sites. Start your visit with a dose of history at Fort George, where costumed interpreters and live demonstrations bring the War of 1812 era to life. Road trippers will appreciate the spacious on-site parking and visitor-friendly facilities, making this a convenient and educational first stop. Stretch your legs with a 1-hour walk on the Heritage Trail, pack a picnic lunch, and snap photos of history right at your fingertips.
Good to Know about Fort George:
- Free admission until September 2, 2025 (after that, adult & senior rates apply; youth are always free!)
- Paid parking: $8.50/vehicle
- On-site washrooms and a gift shop for Canadian souvenirs
- Explore at your own pace with self-guided tours
- Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to enjoy the full experience
- Check out the Daily Program Schedule to decide what time of day to plan your stop at the Fort!
Lunch at The Pie Plate
📍 Location: 1607 Four Mile Creek Rd, Virgil, ON L0S 1T0
After exploring the fort, refuel at The Pie Plate, a cozy spot that’s a local favourite. Known for its seasonal flavours, fresh sandwiches, and homemade baked goods, this café offers a relaxed stop for lunch before continuing your day. Enjoy a meal that feels homemade and hearty, the perfect fuel for the journey ahead.
This stop offers:
- Free on-site parking
- Washrooms
- Dine in or Take Out
- Indoor and outdoor seating available
Afternoon in the Heritage District
📍 Location: Queen St. Niagara-on-the-Lake
Venture back towards the lake for an afternoon of strolling through Niagara-on-the-Lake’s charming Heritage District. Queen St. is lined with boutiques, specialty shops, and local treasures, perfect for stretching your legs and discovering something new.
Good to Know About The Heritage District:
- Parking: Street and paid parking are available close by
- Pro Tip: Parking on side streets like Gage St. is often easier and more affordable than right on Queen St.
- Food & Drink Stops We Love:
- Nina Gelateria & Pastry Shop – don’t miss their made-to-order crepes!
- Cow’s Ice Cream – try the famous Cow Chips Chocolate
- Budapest Bake Shop – cinnamon chimney cake, yes please!
- Olde Angel Inn – open late, and if you’re lucky (or not!) you might spot their resident ghost…
- Visitor Amenities: Public washrooms open daily.
- Shopping Highlights:
- Irish Design – unique imported gifts from Ireland 🇮🇪
- Just Christmas – Canada’s only year-round Christmas store 🎄
- Greaves Jam – famous for their jams and jellies (samples available!) 🍓
Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, indulging in a sweet treat, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Heritage District is a can’t-miss stop on your Niagara-on-the-Lake road trip.
Sweet Stop: The Maple Syrup Store
📍 Location: 27 Queen St. Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Our third retail location opened in July 2021, designed to bring the feeling of our sugar bush right into the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Step inside and discover some of the details that make this shop extra special:
- Shadow boxes showcasing tapping tools, spiles, sap lines, and processing equipment.
- Tree trunk countertop – look closely to spot real tap hole castings.
- Custom maple drawers with tap holes in the wood
- The Colour Wall featuring all four grades of maple syrup: Golden, Amber, Dark, and Very Dark.
- Farm photo of Richard and Murray making maple syrup in our Sugar Shack.
- Vinyl flooring printed with an actual photo of our sugar bush trail.
- Immersive forest backdrop created from over 500 seamlessly stitched photos.
- Photo borders capturing maple season activities at the farm.
While you’re here, chat with our friendly staff, taste the four flavours of maple syrup, and ask all your maple-related questions. Then browse our maple syrup, gourmet jams, BBQ sauces, and unique gifts all crafted at our farm just a short drive away. Our central location makes this an easy last stop before heading home the perfect place for road trippers to stock up on edible souvenirs and end their Niagara adventure on a sweet note.
Until the Next Adventure
As we wrap up our Explore Niagara series, we’re reminded how lucky we are to be surrounded by so much history, beauty, and flavour right here in Niagara. From trails and tastes to markets and main streets, each stop has offered something special — and sharing it with you has been such a joy. Thank you for coming along with us on this summer adventure. We hope it’s inspired you to plan a road trip or two of your own, and of course, to stop by White Meadows Farms for a sweet maple memory along the way.
Here’s to many more discoveries, both close to home and beyond!
