Come tour
*Around N' About St Catharines*
with us

Come tour *Around N' About Niagara* with us
Around N' About Niagara magazine for and about Niagara (The Peninsula) our coverage is more than just Niagara Falls.

Our coverage provides you with up to date information on *Around N' About Niagara* communities, attractions, activities, entertainment, art, restaurants, nightlife, hotels, motels, Inns, bed and breakfast accommodations, festivals, events, shopping and other happenings Around N' About Niagara our home.

Visitors, and residents get all the news Around N' About Niagara here!
Check often for site information updates on the fun things to see and do, and (the shopping!) all the discounts on products and services available in our beautiful Niagara.

= = = = Side Bar = = = =
Better yet!
Know Before You Go Around N' About Niagara
Get the latest vacations travel fun information and special to members only offers and discounts delivered to your email inbox. Get access to member's only area information. Join the *Shopping Club* here at the top left of this page above the navigation bar now! It's free! OK! I'll wait...
= = = = End Side Bar = = = =

Oh! You're Back!

So! Let's travel to...
The City of St Catharines Ontario Canada
Is made up of the following communities:
Port Dalhousie, Port Weller, Power Glen, St Catharines

To St Catharines
From The Falls our *Attractions Central* via Thorold Stone Road or Mountain Road that is a quiet scenic ride of about 16 minutes, or via the busy QEW west to exits 37, 44, 46,47 or 48 into...

= = = = Side Bar = = = =
There are some less traveled routs to Niagara Falls our *Attractions Central* (and to other Niagara communities) through beautiful countryside and charming villages with possibilities of great pictures for your holiday travel wall and album. Don't miss out while you're here take the time to enjoy the region and take photographs Around N' About Niagara (The Peninsula).

If you're interested, we have some off the beaten path travel information made up in the form of self guided tours with travel guide and travel maps available
Click here to  *Contact Us* for more S-G Tours information

These are tours I've made often over the years here and are suitable for biking or driving, I prefer to drive and stop often to take pictures. Hey, we might meet on the road Around N' About Niagara. See you there! = = = = End of Side Bar = = = =

St.Catharines the lovely "Garden City" is situated in the heart of the Niagara Fruit belt.

The city is home to the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta and to the popular Niagara Grape and Wine Festival and much more.

For more fun stuff to see and do in St.Catharines check out the * Around N' About Niagara *, Festivals and Events, museums, Attractions, and the other sections (from 01 to 14)

Whether it's your destination of choice or the home base for your Niagara getaway, St. Catharines is right where you want to be.

St. Catharines is a city with a rich past, exciting future and a spirit of celebration in the present.

Lying between the shores of Lake Ontario and the cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment, St. Catharines is surrounded by vineyards, orchards and all that Niagara has to offer, whether a destination of choice or a home base to an Around N' About Niagara Adventure, Ontario's Garden City is right where you want to be.

Around n' about St. Catharines you'll find a wide variety of excellent accommodations from economy motels and family inns to major hotels and quaint Bed and Breakfasts.

From your comfortable accommodations you can explore the city at your leisure or take a short country drive Around N' About Niagara to Niagara Falls, Fort Erie, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Grimsby, or Long Beach.

Travel time from Toronto international airport is only an hour and 45 minutes from Hamilton or Buffalo airports by airport bus or rental car.

Nestled at the Niagara escarpment between Lake Erie and Ontario in the heart of the Peninsula's vineyards and orchards.

Historically linked to the building of the Welland canals, the War of 1812, and as a terminal for the Underground Railroad that guided American slaves to freedom here in Canada.

Host to the annual Royal Canadian Henley Regatta Home of the Annual Niagara Grape and Wine Festival check the Around N' About Niagara listings Festival and Events section for other great year round happenings.

A bit of history
The very early history of St.Catharines was influenced by events that happened a considerable distance away from the city. In 1783, the treaty of Paris ended the American Revolutionary War.

The treaty acknowledged the independence of the United States of America and an International boundary was set.

Many British supporters (loyalists), living south of this boundary, preferred to stay British subjects, so they migrated northward.

The British government encouraged this and offered free fertile land to all Loyalists who chose to settle in Canada.

A large amount of this land was in the Niagara Peninsula, so many came to this area. The first men known to have taken up land within the limits of what is now St.Catharines were John Hainer and Jacob Dittrick about 1790.

Over the years, the name of the community changed several times and was, in the early 1800's, known as "Shipman's Corners".

Paul Shipman's tavern was an important stagecoach transfer point as well as the hub of the community's social life.

"The Twelve" was another name used, referring to the Twelve Mile Creek. However, the name St.Catharines, in one form, or another had preceded all other names. Though its origin is obscure.

With a population of over 140,000, St.Catharines has now become the dominant centre of the Niagara Peninsula.

Although the city has grown commercially and industrially, it has not abandoned its agricultural roots.

The Niagara Escarpment provides a natural shelter for soil that are particularly conducive to fruit growing.

These two factors, plus a climate favorable to fruit production, have led the development of the fruit lands to such an extent that they are one of the most productive agricultural areas, not only in Ontario and Canada, but also in the world.

Travel Around N' About Niagara Rural Routes
Niagara is the fruit basket of Canada, and the Garden City of St.Catharines is at its heart.

The city offers an abundance of recreational trails, picturesque harbour fronts and marinas that are available to you to enjoy.

From early spring to late fall we live in a paradise of blossoming orchards, century-old farms, stately vineyards, lush fields, farmers markets and roadside stands.

Experience fresh fruit from the source - an abundance of sun-ripened peaches, plums, pears, apples, cherries and apricots.

From field to field, the ongoing harvest is a rainbow of sweet peppers, zucchini, cabbage, snow peas, garlic, shallots and vine-ripened tomatoes.

Centrally located in St.Catharines historic downtown, the newly restored farmers' market is the longest running market in Ontario that offers a variety of fresh produce and an assortment of fare from a number of friendly vendors.

The market operates every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday year round.

I find Saturday is the best day to visit the market, as there are more farmer vendors on site offering their harvest, maybe I'll see you there early Saturday morning after brecki at one of the neighboring restaurants downtown.

It is also an ideal starting point for a walking tour of the commercial core and residential heritage district of downtown St.Catharines.

A bit more background for your personal tour pictures wall and album:

Population:       142,200
Mayor:             Timothy H. Rigby

Many of the city's thoroughfares originated as trails used by the Indians several hundred years ago. Although the community dates back to 1787, the completion of the Welland Canal in 1829 is credited with sparking its development as the regions principal industrial centre.

Canal improvements encouraged the establishment of local shipyards and the basis for the city's strong industrial profile. Niagara's largest city it is home to Ridley College, a stately and historic private school founded in 1888.

In contrast to its industrial character, the city is known as "The Garden City".

Its economy:
General Motors is one of the largest employers. At Brock University employment totals 800 people, while at Niagara College Campus there are 450 employees, Port Weller Dry Docks, one of only four shipbuilders in Canada, employs 200 skilled trades people.

Major industries include automotive components, primary metal, metal fabricating, wood furniture and fixtures, biotechnology, paper products, printing and publishing.

Big Box stores the like of Home Depot, Coscos and Wal-Mart and other major chains have also located here in various shopping mall areas around the city.

Fun stuff to see and do Around N' About St Catharines: America's finest scullers compete at the Henley Regatta each year.

Annually the Folk Art Festival recognizes our multicultural mosaic with city wide culinary and cultural celebration.

In September one of the country's top events: the Grape and Wine Festival celebrates the harvest and showcases Niagara's wine industry.

In Port Dalhousie an antique carousel offers 5-cent rides, while lighthouses, quaint boutiques and waterfront eateries provide a delightful ambience.

At the Welland Canal Centre gigantic freighters from all over the world can be viewed navigating the canal.

The St.Catharines Museum is located at this exciting canal lock location.

Around N' About St Catharines Downtown
St.Catharines offers a mix of specialty shops, services and one of the oldest continuously operated Farmers' Market in Ontario.

As you stroll along the streetscaped avenues, you can delight in food destinations beyond and shop where the merchants know your name while catering to your taste and desire for quality.

The architectural richness of its buildings and animated stories behind its past add to your downtown experience and the enjoyment you'll get from a walking tour through the business area, historical Montebello Park and residential heritage districts.

The extensive waterways, trail system and parklands of St. Catharines create a natural network of recreational opportunities that include fishing, sailing, boating, hiking, cycling, golfing - the possibilities are endless! Check out the Outdoor Activities listings for more details.

Around N' About Port Dalhousie
Take the QEW from the Falls our *Trip Central* to the Ontario Street Exit #47 north to Lakeport Road; left on Lakeport Road takes you past the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta Course and into Port Dalhousie.

Hogan's Alley takes you to the Lakeshore Park parking area. From there you can stroll the beach the Harbour and the village to your hearts content.

Port Dalhousie on the shores of Lake Ontario lays St.Catharines' picturesque harbour front village where the Welland Canal began over 170 years ago.

There are shops, restaurants, beach, historic sites boating facilities and attractions. Check out Rides & Tours listings for details on Historic walking tours are available Around N' About St Catharines.

Experience the attraction of this picturesque harbour front community, where the eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and historic sites will ensure your return visit to Old Port Dalhousie.

Where tall ships once entered the first three Welland Canals, the historic harbour front village of Port Dalhousie still extends a warm welcome of hospitality.

For almost 100 years, rowers from around the world have visited to compete in the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta.

Recalling a time of handcrafted quality, Port Dalhousie is a living museum of the 19th century architecture, from the lighthouses on the pier, shops, restaurants, theatre and a 5-cent carousel along the restored waterfront promenade.

The antique carousel, carved and painted by hand, still offers an unforgettable ride at the original price-5 cents!

Stroll along the sandy beach or take the Harbour Walkway and catch a sunset on the pier. Explore bookstores, galleries, gift shops and fashion boutiques.

Enjoy a unique selection of casual and fine dining establishments. We enjoy an occasional late meal at the Port Mansion; we may see you there sometime.

Whatever the season, Port Dalhousie will captivate and enchant you.

To Port Weller
From The Falls via the QEW it's a quick 16 to 20 minute ride to the Lake Ontario shipping access to the Welland Canal at Port Weller Harbour. Use the QEW exit 38 to York Road west, onto Queenston Street over the lift bridge to the Welland Canals Parkway (Government Road) right onto this relaxing drive, with many stop areas, to the Lake Ontario Port Weller harbour.

You can begin or end your Welland Canal pictures tour (walking) hiking, biking on the paved path along the canal.

Or, take a peaceful drive taking photography stops at the many parking areas along the Welland Canal Parkway.

And, or, take advantage of the parks and beaches in the area, of family interest check out Happy Rolph Conservation Area, lots of possibilities for nature photos and for a family pictures and fun day.

See Around N' About St Catharines listings under *Parks*, *Outdoor Activities* and *Of Interest* for more details. Oh! Don't forget *Rides & Tours* an evening of dining on Lake Ontario might be nice, with some pictures for the travel memories album and wall.

To St Catharines downtown or uptown whichever...
From The Falls via the QEW it's a quick 16 to 20 minute ride to downtown via the Dieppe Road Exit #44 to south on Welland Avenue then south on Niagara Street onto Church Street then onto King Street (is a one way streets south to Ontario Street).

You can stop anywhere between Court Street and Ontario Street or continue left onto Ontario Street to left onto St. Paul Street (is a one way street north to Geneva Street), which is another downtown core main street.

You can park on St. Paul Street between Ontario and Court Streets to walk the downtown core, or continue the loop to Church Street and around again to orient yourself.

It's a great area to walk and shop or stop for a refreshing drink and a snack where you have dozens of restaurants and pubs to choose from.

Hey, we may even meet on one of our excursions to the bank, shopping, or at the farmers market, at breakfast or lunch. When I'm downtown in the a.m. I usually have breckie at Christina's Eatery or, one of the restaurants near the farmers market. Maybe we'll see you there. = = = = =

>>>>= = = = =
Special Note:
For residents and visitors Around N' About Niagara (The Peninsula)...

Find your best deals!
Know Before You Go shopping or travel Around N' About Niagara
Check out Around N' About Niagara magazine the guide to our Niagara Peninsula Communities.

The listings pages here, at this site, guide you to the communities of Niagara Falls, Port Colborne, St Catharines, Welland, Fort Erie, Grimsby, Lincoln, Niagara-on-the-lake, Pelham, Thorold, Wainfleet, West Lincoln Ontario Canada and their villages and hamlets (where and when available).

These pages contain, for your convenience, listings to Shopping, Dining, Tours, Golfing, Art, Museums, Rides, Parks, Wineries, Outdoor Activities, Nightlife, Historical sights, Attractions, Accommodations, Festivals, Events, Amusements, Products and Services suppliers (and the discounts)

And do make use of the Community Info and the Seniors Guide pages for our Niagara communities