The Niagara Region is a major tourist attraction and has a lot to offer visitors; but what about the locals? Not to worry, Niagara also presents a plethora of activities for us residents to enjoy! I’ve listed some of my top choices; a few things you wouldn’t necessarily think to do and a few old go-to’s. Feel free to add some of your favourite activities or locations in the comments below!
Skyzone
Trampolines are no longer just for kids! Kids are always more than welcome at Skyzone however, but I personally love jumping around with my adult friends as well; and not to worry, they normally separate adults and young children for safety purposes. Skyzone is fun, exciting and provides a great out-of-the-box workout.
St. Catharines flea market
The St. Catharines Factory Outlet Flea Market is the largest indoor/outdoor market in the Niagara Region. With over 250 booths, and over 125 vendors they have a huge variety of merchandise; a lot of which is hard to find anywhere else. This is one of my favourite places to go on a lazy Sunday Morning/Afternoon, you never know what treasures you’re going to find!
Niagara Farmers Markets
No matter where you live in Niagara, chances are there is a farmers market nearby. Niagara’s farmers markets offer a wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables. In addition to that, some vendors offer wine, meats and pastries. The market vendors include local growers, small businesses, restaurants and more. I especially love the markets in the Spring and Summer months for homemade ice cream, fresh flowers, and all the wonderful fruits and vegetables the Niagara Region offers.
Hiking Niagara
This is by far my favourite thing to do in Niagara in the warmer months. The region has such amazing trails, many of which offer up a fantastic view and/or beautiful waterfalls. You haven’t experienced Niagara until you’ve hiked the Morningstar Mill/Decew Falls trail, down to the gorge and gone swimming under the falls!
Safari Niagara
Never a dull moment at Safari Niagara! This place is for children and adults alike; where else in Niagara can you experience different animals and birds up close, go paddle boating, fly high on an aerial ropes obstacle course, and watch the kids enjoy a splash pad while you eat, all in the same place!
Canal Days
Four days of partying, eating festival food, perusing shopping kiosks, enjoying live music and SO MUCH MORE. Canal days just has too much to offer to properly describe here, I just wouldn’t do it justice! This is a signature event in the Niagara region, and a must-try!
Niagara Skydive Centre
If you’re a daredevil or just looking for the adrenaline rush of a lifetime than Niagara Skydive is the place for you! They offer different skydive options for first time skydivers as well as the more experienced. When in doubt, choose tandem your first time and get strapped to a “skydive master”. This is not for the faint of heart but isn’t skydiving on most people’s bucket list? Why not experience it here in Niagara with a reputable company.
Peaks Indoor Rock Climbing
Peaks is a great place to go for a fun workout; with 60 climbing routes, they offer walls for all different levels of experience. Depending on what you prefer, there is the option to belay with a climbing harness or really put your upper body to work and boulder. I personally prefer belaying due to my lack of upper body strength but I know many people who love Peaks for their bouldering!
Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill isn’t just for tourists; as long as you don’t mind the prices associated with a touristic location, Clifton Hill can be great fun for all ages! Some of my favourite things to enjoy on Clifton Hill include the haunted houses, Great Canadian Midway, and anything on or near the water.