Why come to Niagara?

Well for starters, to see us! The bonus is that there is just so much fun stuff to do and see here (especially in the summer). We are thrilled that our friends Jen and Regan are coming out at the beginning of August and my cousins Debbie and Tim are coming out for a visit in mid August. I was talking to Debbie the other day and she asked me to write a little list of possible things to do/ see. I figured why not write a whole post on it, I wonder if I can lure some people to come visit us in Ontario. If you always wanted to come see the falls this may be your perfect opportunity. A free place to stay and of course we'll feed you!

In no particular order

Niagara Falls (FYI: is just 15 minutes away)
-See the falls and go on the Maid of The Mist: These are those little boats that you often see in postcards that go right up to the falls. A must do and a very reasonable price. ($14.50)
-Clifton Hill: After visiting the falls the thing to do is take a walk up and down Clifton Hill. This place has lots of haunted houses and wax museums. It also has a sky wheel, Guiness World Records museum, Lego Brick City, Ripley’s Believe it or not museum and lots of other things to check out.

-Check out the little town Niagara on the Lake (free) and go for a drive along the parkway (beautiful)
-Take a winery tour (visit David at work and receive samples for free)
-The Butterfly Conservatory: A beautiful open conservatory with butterflies everywhere, loved it! Also have beautiful gardens around the conservatory ($11.50)

-Bird Kingdom: An open aviary with lots of different birds to see. ($17) http://www.niagarafallsaviary.com/
For Adventure/ Fun: -Marineland: See shows with belugas, killer whales, walrus’ and dolphins. There are lots of land animals and many amusement park rides as well. ($39.95 per adult or $5 more for a seasons pass) http://www.marinelandcanada.com/
-African Lion Safari: Just 45 minutes away take a safari tour in our vehicle through an open game reserve. ($29.95 per adult) http://www.lionsafari.com/

-Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour: If you love rafting and water this is for you, prepare to get VERY wet; on the pricey side but one of those once in a lifetime things to do. ($57 but always has a $5 off coupon) http://www.whirlpooljet.com/
For History:
-Fort George: Several times in the summer the people at the fort dress up and perform reinactments of battles($11.70) On Canada Day there are fireworks, free admission etc. http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/on/fortgeorge/index_E.asp

Toronto:
Medieval Times Toronto: Set in medieval Spain, the actors tell a story that includes jousting, combat, swordsmanship, etc. Included is a full meal. ($62.95 per adult, however there are often special rates and 2 for 1 deals) http://www.medievaltimes.com/findcastles/toronto/

-CN Tower : get a view of the city ($21.49)
-CNE and Ontario Place: A great exhibition if you happen to be here around the end of August.
-The Hockey Hall of Fame ($13)
-Go to a Jays Game (cheap seats for $12)
-Toronto Zoo ($21)

Looking for a Day Trip?
-Canada’s Wonderland: Just over an hour away outside Toronto is this mega amusement park, with over 200 attractions and 65 rides. If you like roller coasters then this park is for you! The park also includes a huge water park for guests to enjoy. ($42.44 per adult but 20% off specials often exist) http://www.canadaswonderland.com/

-Shopping in New York State: Niagara Falls and Buffalo have lots to offer in the area of outlet malls and shopping. Just 20 minutes away. The Buffalo Zoo is also near.($9.50)

-St. Jacob’s Country and Market: About 2.5 hours away is Canadian Amish country. There is a large covered market and quaint town. If you’re hoping for a chance to see people in horse drawn buggies this is the place for you.

Free Things close to home

-Port Dalhousie & 5 cent Carousel: Beach/ water front
-Hoppy Ralphs Bird Sanctuary & Petting Zoo
-Visit the canals to see the ships
-Morning Star Mill: A cute little mill with hiking trails, just 5 minutes away. http://www.morningstarmill.ca/

Hope that gives you a better idea of what there actually is to do around here, lots of options. We've also got a stocked games cupboard to fill in the evenings.