In the Niagara Region, there’s no shortage of fun summer activities to enjoy. Exploring the top attractions in Niagara Falls alone can fill up your entire day. And that’s just scratching the surface; cities like St. Catharines, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Fonthill, and Welland have their own unique summer offerings. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve put together the Ultimate Summer Bucket List: Niagara Region edition. From outdoor concerts to berry picking, let’s make this summer one to remember!

Enjoy Melodies Through Parks Across the Region

Fonthill Bandshell. Get your lawn chair ready for a fantastic time! From June 20th to September 5th, the Fonthill Bandshell in Peace Park becomes a musical haven. With musical performances by award-winning Canadian artists and nostalgic tributes, this free summer concert series runs every Thursday from 7 pm to 9 pm, offering fun for all ages. If you’re searching for entertainment during the week in the Niagara Region, look no further! Check out this year’s concert schedule here.

Summer Concert Series. Get ready for St. Catharines’ highly anticipated annual concert series! This year, they’re expanding to two venues – Lakeside Park and Montebello Park – and adding more dates. Featuring a mix of local and touring Canadian artists, the Summer Concert Series takes place every Thursday from 6 pm to 9 pm. You can also enjoy food trucks, craft beverages, and family games, making it a standout summer event in Niagara. Don’t forget to bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating! Browse this year’s lineup here.

Spend Time in Nature

Conservations Areas and Trails. Looking for ways to stay active this summer? Take a hike through Niagara’s sights! Explore DeCew Falls and admire the historic grist mill rebuilt in 1872 at Morningstar Mill. In Niagara-on-the-Lake, trek through Woodend Conservation Area for stunning views of Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment. And don’t miss the breathtaking Niagara Gorge in Niagara Falls, where you can marvel at the ancient boulders shaped over thousands of years at Niagara’s Glen.

Gardens. Speaking of natural wonders, Niagara has plenty of must-see gardens in Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake and beyond! In Niagara Falls there’s the famous floral clock and Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, decorated in vibrant seasonal blooms. Travelling over to Niagara-on-the-Lake, you can book a garden tour in the historic old town with the NOTL Horticultural Society.

Pick Your Own Fruit

Cherry Avenue Farms. Located in Beamsville, Cherry Avenue Farms invites you to come pick blue plums, peaches, nectarines, cherries, apricots, or pears. The farm is open every day from 8 am to 7 pm, except Sunday and Monday. Before you visit, it’s a good idea to contact the farm to confirm which fruits are in season for picking.

Parkway Orchards. A beloved spot in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Parkway Orchards is a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike. They provide the opportunity to pick your own apples, nectarines, plums, peaches, and cherries. However, it’s wise to give them a call beforehand to check which fruits are currently in season and available for picking.

Tigchelaar Berry Farms. Whether you’re in a hurry or have the leisure to select each strawberry carefully, Tigchelaar Berry Farms is the perfect destination. Situated in Jordan Station, they offer a market filled with delectable local produce and baked goods, as well as a pick-your-own strawberry farm!

The ideas for summer fun don’t stop there! Take your picked fruit and make homemade pie, jam, or jelly. If it turns out okay, consider gifting them to family and friends.

Try a New Food at One of the Region’s Restaurants

Looking for exciting things to do in the Niagara Region? Exploring the local food scene can be a highlight of your visit. Expand your culinary horizons by dining at one of the region’s many restaurants. Now’s the perfect time to try that dish you’ve been curious about! It doesn’t have to be something exotic like escargot; even something as simple as sushi can offer an exciting new experience. With numerous restaurants scattered through Niagara, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample a diverse array of cuisines. Who knows? You might just discover your new favourite dish waiting to be savoured.

Experience Niagara Falls After Dark

Experience the magic of fun summer activities with the spectacular Niagara Parks Fireworks Series! Set against the backdrop of the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls, these breathtaking displays light up the night sky. Enjoy the show from different viewpoints, such as Clifton Hill, Queen Victoria Park, and the Top of the Falls. Don’t miss out on this captivating event, happening every night until October 9th at 10 pm!

Cool Off at the Beach

Discover exciting ideas for summer with a visit to Niagara’s top beaches! Lakeside Park Beach in St. Catharines offers the perfect escape with easy shore access, allowing you to relax by the water while your kids enjoy rides on the Looff Carousel for just a few cents. For more summer fun, head to Nickel Beach in Port Colborne. Enjoy over a mile of pristine white sand and refreshing Lake Erie waters at this must-see destination in the Niagara Region!

Catch a Movie Under the Stars at the Drive-In

Experience movies under the stars at Skyway Drive-In Theatre, Fonthill’s premier destination for outdoor cinema. With four screens and open rain or shine, Skyway guarantees an unforgettable movie-watching experience. Bring your blankets and pillows, pack up your van, and prepare for a night of summer fun and entertainment at this iconic Niagara sight!

Niagara Sights– More Than Just a Seasonal Delight

Discovering the Niagara Region isn’t limited to a single season. From tourist gems in Niagara Falls to beloved attractions in Niagara-on-the-Lake, there’s a plethora of things to do in the Niagara Region year-round. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, culinary connoisseur or music aficionado, you’ll never be bored during your time spent in the Region.

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