St. Catharines Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in St. Catharines, Ontario with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan an unforgettable visit with our tips, itineraries, and recommendations.


Introduction to St. Catharines

Nestled in the heart of the Niagara Peninsula, St. Catharines is a vibrant, picturesque city that offers a fascinating mix of natural beauty and urban culture. Known for its impressive array of wineries and vineyards, the city is also home to a wide range of attractions, from historical and cultural landmarks to scenic parks and outdoor recreation areas. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, St. Catharines has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in St. Catharines

Here are some of the must-visit destinations in the city of St. Catharines:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The St. Catharines Museum at Lock 3
  • The Rodman Hall Art Centre
  • The Morningstar Mill
  • The Laura Secord Homestead

Natural Attractions of St. Catharines: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Niagara Escarpment
  • Short Hills Provincial Park
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake
  • Lake Ontario Shoreline

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. Catharines

St. Catharines boasts plenty of hiking and biking trails that provide excellent opportunities for outdoor adventures.

  • Bruce Trail
  • Waterfront Trail
  • Welland Canal Parkway Trail
  • Ship’s Graveyard Trail

Best Things to Do in St. Catharines: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the top things to do in St. Catharines:

  • Visit the wineries and vineyards of the Niagara-on-the-Lake region
  • Take a scenic boat tour along the Welland Canal
  • Explore the historic downtown district
  • Attend a local festival or event
  • Go ice skating at the Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre

Week-Long Itinerary for St. Catharines

Here’s an example itinerary for a week-long trip to St. Catharines:

Day Activity
1 Visit the St. Catharines Museum at Lock 3 and the Rodman Hall Art Centre
2 Go hiking at Short Hills Provincial Park and explore Niagara-on-the-Lake
3 Take a scenic boat tour along the Welland Canal and visit the Laura Secord Homestead
4 Visit some of the city’s impressive wineries and vineyards
5 Take a day trip to Niagara Falls
6 Explore the historic downtown district and attend a local festival or event
7 Go ice skating at the Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre and enjoy a final dinner in the city

Food and Drink Scene of St. Catharines

St. Catharines has a thriving food and drink scene that features a mix of traditional Canadian cuisine and international flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine
  • Beaver Tails
  • Butter Tarts
  • Tourtiere

Local Beverages

  • Ice wine
  • Craft beer
  • Cider
  • Canadian Whisky

Where to Stay in St. Catharines: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in St. Catharines, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  • Best Western St. Catharines Hotel and Conference Centre
  • Comfort Inn St. Catharines
  • Four Points by Sheraton St. Catharines Niagara Suites

What to Buy in St. Catharines: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring back a piece of St. Catharines with you, consider buying some locally-made souvenirs and products. Some of the best options include:

  • Ice wine
  • Maple syrup
  • Locally-made crafts and artwork
  • Niagara peach jam

Local Culture and Customs of St. Catharines

The people of St. Catharines are generally friendly, welcoming, and proud of their Canadian heritage. Common customs and traditions include:

  • Celebrating Canada Day on July 1st
  • Attending local festivals and events
  • Embracing the outdoors through hiking, biking, and other activities

Best Time to Visit St. Catharines

The best time to visit St. Catharines is between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the landscape is in full bloom. The city’s wineries and vineyards are particularly beautiful during this time, and there are many local festivals and events to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. Catharines

Do:

  • Explore the local wineries and vineyards
  • Take a scenic boat tour along the Welland Canal
  • Embrace the outdoors with hiking and biking adventures
  • Learn about the area’s rich history and culture

Don’t:

  • Forget to try some poutine and other Canadian cuisine
  • Miss the opportunity to attend a local festival or event
  • Leave without exploring the beautiful nearby areas such as Niagara Falls

Safety and Health

Safety in St. Catharines

St. Catharines is a safe city, with low levels of crime and a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors should take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables in plain sight and staying alert at night.

Health in St. Catharines

St. Catharines has excellent healthcare facilities, with several hospitals and clinics located throughout the city. Visitors should be aware of the potential for tick-borne illnesses in certain outdoor areas during the summer months.

Getting to St. Catharines: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near St. Catharines

The closest airport to St. Catharines is the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, located roughly 45 minutes away by car. The Toronto Pearson International Airport is also nearby, located about 90 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near St. Catharines

St. Catharines has a Greyhound bus station located downtown, as well as a terminal for the local public transit system, Niagara Region Transit.

Other Options

Other transportation options for getting to St. Catharines include renting a car or taking a taxi or ride-sharing service.

How to Get Around in St. Catharines

The best way to get around St. Catharines is by car, as many destinations are spread out across the city. There is also a local public transit system, Niagara Region Transit, as well as taxis and ride-sharing services available.

Where to Go Next from St. Catharines: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

St. Catharines is located in the heart of the Niagara Peninsula, and there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Some popular options include:

  • Niagara Falls
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake
  • Toronto
  • Hamilton

Conclusion

St. Catharines is a hidden gem of a city, with plenty to offer visitors of all interests. From exploring historical landmarks and cultural attractions to indulging in the local food and drink scene, there’s so much to discover in this charming Canadian town. Plan your trip today and get ready to experience all that St. Catharines has to offer!

Montebello Park Montebello Park British Methodist Episcopal Church, Salem Chapel British Methodist Episcopal Church, Salem Chapel Morningstar Mill and DeCew Falls Morningstar Mill and DeCew Falls Rodman Hall Rodman Hall The Old Courthouse, at the corner of James and King streets The Old Courthouse, at the corner of James and King streets Rear Range Lighthouse Rear Range Lighthouse