City of St. Catharines, Ontario

St. Catharines, Ontario, also known as the “Garden City,” is a charming city situated in the Niagara region, between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. Known for its lush parks, beautiful gardens, and vibrant arts and culture scene, St. Catharines offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. In this guide, we’ll explore the city’s top attractions, outdoor activities, and dining options to help you make the most of your visit.

Top Attractions

• Port Dalhousie: This historic harbor village features picturesque waterfront views, a marina, boutique shops, and restaurants. The Lakeside Park Carousel, a century-old carousel, is a popular attraction for families.
• FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre: This state-of-the-art facility hosts a variety of performances, from theater and dance to live music and film screenings. The center also houses the Film House, showcasing independent and international films.
• Rodman Hall Art Centre: Located in a historic Victorian mansion, this art gallery showcases contemporary art exhibitions and offers educational programs for all ages.
• St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre: Learn about the history of St. Catharines and the Welland Canal at this museum, which features interactive exhibits and a viewing platform to watch ships navigate the canal’s locks.
• Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm: A family-friendly attraction, Happy Rolph’s offers a chance to interact with farm animals and enjoy scenic walking trails along the waterfront.

Outdoor Activities

• The Bruce Trail: As the oldest and longest marked footpath in Canada, the Bruce Trail passes through St. Catharines and offers picturesque hiking opportunities with views of the Niagara Escarpment and surrounding area.
• Burgoyne Woods Park: This large park features trails for hiking and jogging, sports fields, a playground, and a leash-free dog park. During the winter months, the park is a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• Short Hills Provincial Park: Spanning over 660 hectares, this park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park’s diverse ecosystem is also ideal for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
• The Royal Henley Park and Rowing Course: This world-class rowing course is a great spot for walking, running, or simply watching rowers in action. The adjacent park offers picnic areas and a playground.

Dining and Nightlife

St. Catharines offers a diverse selection of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Explore the city’s downtown core for a variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisine, or venture to Port Dalhousie for waterfront dining options. The city is also home to several craft breweries and wineries, where you can sample locally produced beverages.

For nightlife, St. Catharines features live music venues, bars, and pubs, offering entertainment options for every taste. The downtown area is a popular hub for nightlife, with a mix of bars and clubs catering to different crowds.

Shopping

The Pen Centre, located in the heart of St. Catharines, is the largest shopping mall in the Niagara region, featuring over 180 stores and services. For a more local shopping experience, visit the city’s downtown core, where you’ll find boutique shops, galleries, and specialty stores.

Events and Festivals

St. Catharines hosts a variety of annual events and festivals, celebrating arts, culture, and the local community. Some popular events include the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival, the In the Soil Arts Festival, and the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta.