St. Catherines, Ontario

Location: Lake Ontario   

Ease of Getting There:  9/10

Ease of Staying There: 9/10

Ease of Eating There: 10/10

Website of Town: tourismstcatherines.ca

St. Catherines, Ontario, often overlooked by tourists on their way to Niagara Falls, is one of the largest cities in Canada's Niagara region.  St. Catherines recently went through a massive economic development and is busting its seams with a mix of eclectic shops, cafes, bistros, pubs, breweries and food from vegan doughnut shops to creative farm to table options.

Late spring, summer and fall are excellent times to travel here.  There is no shortage of outdoor beauty, including 50 miles of trails including Bruce Trail a waterfront trail that passes through St. Catherines along Lake Ontario.  Sip on wine in world class vineyards specializing in white and ice wines.  See Decew upper and lower falls, Lacrosse Hall of Fame Museum, the Underground Railroad and Niagara's Freedom Trail.  August brings in 3000 rowers from around the world for the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta.  Welland Canals Centre Lock 3 is a great place to view ships from all corners of the world as they maneuver through the locks. And don't forget to "smell the roses" in the Garden City known for its lush parks and gardens.  Montebello has over 1300 rose bushes and 25 varieties. 

St. Catherines is 3 1/2 hours from Detroit, 8 hours from Chicago, 40 miles from Buffalo and just over an hour from Toronto.