Let’s get one thing straight — Niagara isn’t just a place you visit for a blurry wine tour or a misty photo by the Falls. It’s a full-on vibe. From vineyard views and local pours to bike trails, boutiques, lavender farms, and spa days you’ll never stop dreaming about — Niagara is where small-town charm meets bucket-list luxury.

As a local Ontario girl who lives for a good Pinot and a better photo op, I’ve rounded up the best wineries and the most fun things to do in the Niagara Region when you’re not sipping. Because the truth is, there’s way more to do between tastings than just “wait for the next one.”

Winery Highlights You Have to Hit

1. Two Sisters Vineyards – Niagara-on-the-Lake

twosistersvineyards.com
If luxury had a winery, this would be it. From the Tuscan villa vibes to the award-winning Cabernet Franc, Two Sisters is a full experience. Book a seated tasting or splurge on their Kitchen76 restaurant — the truffle arancini is not optional.

2. Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery – St. Davids

ravinevineyard.com
Set on a 100+ year-old farm, Ravine blends rustic beauty with serious wine cred. Their Cabernet Rosé is always in my fridge, and their farm-to-table restaurant is one of the best in the region. It’s low-key elegant and the patio views are ✨chef’s kiss✨.

3. Southbrook Organic Vineyards – Niagara-on-the-Lake

southbrook.com
If you’re into biodynamic and organic wines (or you just like a wine that’s good for the planet and your palate), Southbrook is a must. Their Orange Wine is super unique, and the futuristic purple-glass tasting room is a total conversation starter.

4. Megalomaniac Wines – Vineland

megalomaniacwine.com
Let’s just say the name says it all. Over-the-top in the best way, Megalomaniac sits atop a hill with sweeping vineyard views and a cheeky wine list. (Try the Narcissist Riesling — obviously.) The indoor/outdoor vibe is made for selfies.

5. Leaning Post Wines – Winona

leaningpostwines.com
Small-batch, low-key, and locally loved. Tucked in the Niagara Escarpment, this hidden gem produces seriously good Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. It’s quiet, relaxed, and feels like you're part of a secret wine club.

Now for the Fun Stuff (a.k.a. What to Do Between Tastings)

Niagara-on-the-Lake Bike Tours

niagarawine-tours.com
If you want to turn your wine crawl into a vibe, book a guided bike tour. You’ll cycle past vineyards, taste along the way, and burn just enough calories to justify more cheese. Bonus: zero designated driver drama.

Visit the Lavender Fields at Neob Niagara

neobniagara.com
In bloom from June to August, this lavender farm in NOTL is straight out of a Pinterest dream. Stroll through rows of purple, try lavender lemonade, and stock up on essential oils and handmade soaps. Relaxation mode: activated.

Shop & Stroll in Niagara-on-the-Lake

niagaraonthelake.com
Queen Street is filled with adorable boutiques, old-school apothecaries, gourmet food shops, and historic charm. Pop into Just Christmas, then grab a scoop at Cows Ice Cream and watch the horse-drawn carriages roll by.

Unwind at Thermëa Spa Village – Whitby (for the journey home)

thermea.com/ontario
Okay, so it’s technically just outside Niagara, but if you’re headed home via Whitby, Thermëa is the ultimate decompression stop. Hot-cold thermal cycles, forest hammocks, steam rooms, and an on-site restaurant. It’s like detoxing from your wine tour with style.

Catch a Show at The Shaw Festival

shawfest.com
If you’re in Niagara-on-the-Lake during show season, don’t sleep on a live performance at the Shaw Festival. Beautiful theatres, world-class actors, and plays that range from timeless to laugh-out-loud modern.

Honourable Mentions for the Chill Crew

• Queen’s Royal Park – Pack a picnic and sit by the lake. Watch the boats, listen to the waves, reset your soul.

• Niagara Glen Nature Reserve – Stunning hiking trails along the Whirlpool Rapids. Bring real shoes and prepare to feel something.

• Niagara Helicopters – If you're feeling dramatic (love that for you), book a short helicopter tour over the Falls and vineyards. It’s a little pricey but worth every second.

Final Thoughts From Your Niagara Wine Country Insider

Niagara Region is way more than just a tourist destination — it’s a full-body, feel-good kind of place. You’ll sip. You’ll snack. You’ll soak in views that look like a painting and moments that feel like a memory before they’re even over.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Niagara knows how to keep things fresh, flavourful, and just a little bit fancy.

So book the tasting, grab your cutest hat, and make a whole day of it.