15 Things To Do In Niagara Wine Country Besides Drinking Wine

From the Shaw Festival and Fort George to the falls themselves — 15 ways to enjoy Niagara wine country beyond the tasting room.

Niagara is rightly famous for its wineries, but there's a lot more to wine country than what's in the glass. Between world-class theatre, War of 1812 history, riverside trails, gardens, and of course the falls themselves, you could fill a long weekend without ever booking a tasting (though we'd gently suggest you book at least one).

Here are 15 things to do in and around Niagara wine country - perfect for filling out a wine-tour weekend, entertaining non-drinkers in the group, or simply seeing more of one of Ontario's most beautiful corners.

In and Around Niagara-on-the-Lake

1. Catch a Show at the Shaw Festival

The Shaw Festival is one of North America's finest cultural attractions and the cultural heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Its repertory company stages more than ten productions a season - musicals, comedies, mysteries, and sweeping classics - across the Festival Theatre, Royal George Theatre, and Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre. The 2026 season runs from early April to late December, so there's almost always something on. Reserve ahead for big titles and weekend dates, and confirm which theatre your show is in before you go.

2. Stroll the Heritage District

Voted one of the prettiest towns in Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake's old town is made for wandering. Tree-lined streets and lush boulevard gardens lead past whimsical boutiques, antique shops, and bistros, with a horse-drawn carriage or two clopping by. It's the kind of place where the walk itself is the activity.

3. Step Back in Time at Fort George

History comes alive at this War of 1812 fort, where red-coated soldiers re-enact the era, you can try firing a musket, and you'll learn about the people who built - and rebuilt - the town after it was razed during the war. A must for history buffs and a great stop with kids.

4. Visit the Niagara Apothecary

This beautifully preserved museum is an authentic recreation of an 1869 pharmacy, housed in a striking example of mid-Victorian architecture with Italian-inspired details. It's small, free, and a charming glimpse into 19th-century daily life right on Queen Street.

5. Walk or Picnic Along the Waterfront

Niagara-on-the-Lake sits where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario, and the waterfront offers stunning views - on a clear day you can see across the water to the United States. Bring a blanket, grab provisions from a local shop, and settle in for one of the best free views in the region.

6. Browse the Local Markets and Galleries

Beyond wine, the town has a thriving local arts and food scene, with seasonal markets, artisan workshops, and galleries scattered through the heritage streets. Check the town's events calendar before you visit - there's frequently a festival, garden tour, or music performance on.

Out in the Vineyards (No Tasting Required)

7. Bike the Vineyard Trails

You don't have to drink to enjoy the vineyards. Renting a bike lets you take in the rolling rows of vines, the lake breezes, and the scenery at your own pace. E-bikes make the gentle distances between properties effortless.

8. Walk a Section of the Greater Niagara Circle Route

Cyclists and walkers rave about the trail system linking Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake - roughly 70 km of beautiful riverside scenery if you do the whole thing, or a relaxing afternoon if you just sample a stretch.

9. Dine at a Winery Restaurant

Many of Niagara's estates have outstanding restaurants, and you can absolutely enjoy a farm-to-table meal with the vineyard views without making it about the wine. The region's chefs and growers have spent decades building a food culture rooted in the same soil and seasons as the grapes.

10. Try Goat Yoga or a Farm Experience

Wine country is still working farmland, and that means quirky, family-friendly experiences - from goat yoga to seasonal farm visits and pick-your-own outings. A fun, unexpected way to spend a morning.

Just Down the Road in Niagara Falls

11. See the Falls Themselves

You can't come to wine country and skip the main event. The Canadian Horseshoe Falls is only about 20 minutes from Niagara-on-the-Lake. See it from a riverside park, from above, or from behind - the mist hanging in the air and catching the sun is unforgettable.

12. Take a Boat Tour to the Base of the Falls

Nothing compares to experiencing the falls from the water. Boat cruises depart from the Canadian side and bring you right into the splash zone for a front-row view of the thundering water.

13. Visit the Butterfly Conservatory

More than 2,000 free-flying butterflies, representing dozens of species, flutter through this lush, climate-controlled rainforest greenhouse - occasionally landing right on you. It's part of the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, which are worth exploring in their own right.

14. Ride the Niagara SkyWheel or Explore Clifton Hill

For a complete change of pace, Clifton Hill is the high-energy, neon-lit heart of Niagara Falls, packed with arcades, attractions, and the Niagara SkyWheel - one of Canada's largest observation wheels, with sweeping views over the falls.

15. Take in the Whirlpool Aero Car

This cable car is suspended high above the Niagara River, offering dramatic views of the swirling Niagara Whirlpool and the rapids below. A short but memorable experience and a great photo stop.

Make It a Complete Niagara Day

The beauty of Niagara wine country is how much it packs into a small area - heritage town, vineyards, falls, and trails all within a short drive. Many visitors combine the two sides of the region: the tranquil, boutique charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake and the high-energy spectacle of Niagara Falls, only about 25 minutes apart.

A wine tour is the easiest way to weave the vineyards into all of it without anyone playing designated driver. Our daily public wine tours include round-trip transportation from Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake hotels, so you can build your tasting around everything else on this list. Travelling with a group that has different interests? A private, customized tour lets you tailor the day, and our corporate and social outings are perfect for mixed groups. Got questions about how it all works? Our FAQ page has answers, or contact us and we'll help you plan.

While you're planning, our guide to the 10 best wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake and our overview of Niagara's distinct wine regions will help you decide where to taste once you've had your fill of everything else.

Ready to experience the best of Niagara wine country? Browse our wine tours and let us handle the driving.

Frequently asked: What is there to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake besides wineries? Plenty - the Shaw Festival, the heritage old town, Fort George and War of 1812 history, the Niagara Apothecary museum, waterfront walks, biking the vineyard trails, and winery restaurants, plus the falls and attractions of Niagara Falls about 20 minutes away. How far is Niagara-on-the-Lake from Niagara Falls? About 20 to 25 minutes by car, making it easy to combine both in one trip.