Hectic schedules can make it tricky to find time for that someone special. This year, make spending time together a priority by dedicating one day away for just the two of you. Then, hop in the car (or on the GO Train) and head to Niagara to sneak in some time that will allow the two of you to reconnect over an activity you both enjoy.
Date Idea #1: A Picture-Perfect Day tasting Niagara Icewine
It’s winter in Niagara, and we know there’s nothing better than a glass of Icewine – except, maybe, a glass of Icewine and a seasonal culinary pairing! This January, we invite you to embark on a self-guided Niagara wine tour with our Discovery Pass Program.
Each Discovery Pass entitles you to enjoy 6 unique wine and culinary experiences, all for just $49 ($39 for Driver’s Pass). New this year, we’re also offering Flex Friday passes! These Friday-Only Discovery and Driver’s Passes allow you to enjoy wine and culinary pairings on January 13th, 20th, and 27th, rather than trying to squeeze all the fun into one weekend. Don’t wait – Passes are on sale now, and groups of 8 or more can get 10% off with discount code DISCOVERYGROUP!
Date Idea #2: Outdoor Art & Butter Tarts
Recognized as Ontario’s number-one winery at the 2022 National Wine Awards, 13th Street Winery offers so much more than just wine. Bundle up and explore the grounds surrounding the winery, which feature a permanent exhibit of spectacular sculptures with scannable QR codes that allow you to learn more about the artwork. There’s also an on-site gallery that specializes in Canadian historical and contemporary fine art.
After you’ve browsed the artwork, break for the on-site bakery, where the butter tarts were voted Canada’s best by House and Home magazine. If you’d prefer an indoor winery art experience, visit Henry of Pelham Family Estate, where visitors can enjoy the collection of Canadian art proudly on display in a light-filled space above the tasting room.
Date Idea #3: Lager & Lights
Get a taste for St. Catharines’ hopping craft beer scene and enjoy a flight with some fabulous food at Merchant Ale House, Cold Break Brewing, Decew Falls Brewing Company, Dragan Brewing & Wine, or Trust Beer Bar.
If you’d prefer your pint in Port Dalhousie, visit Lock Street Brewing Co. and then enjoy a winter’s walk along the old canal.
Date Idea #4: High Tea & Greenery
The Watering Can’s lush Vineland greenhouse hosts daily Garden Teas complete with finger sandwiches, scones, sweets and all the trimmings. Before or after, enjoy a few hours of creative crafting in one of their hands-on workshops, and you’ll take home an arrangement that’s uniquely yours. Afterward, keep the green thumb fun going with a visit to Adam’s Flora in St. Catharines.
Date Idea #5: Campfire & Charcuterie
Cuddling up beside a crackling fire with a glass of wine and some tasty snacks is the perfect way to win at winter dating! Wineries in the St. Catharines and Niagara Benchlands area with fire pits available for visitors include:
- Niagara Custom Crush Studio
- 13th Street Winery
- 180 Estate Winery
- Greenlane Estate Winery
- Red Stone Winery
- King’s Court Estate Winery
If you’d prefer a little protection from the elements, consider one of Fielding Estate Winery’s cozy heated wine domes or a flight beside the fireplace at Westcott Vineyards.
Date Idea #6: Waterfall Walk & A Wonderful Meal
A frosty hike with the promise of a stunning waterfall along the way is a pretty perfect way to spend a winters day. Excellent options for your waterfall hike include:
- Ball’s Falls Conservation Area
- Rockway Falls Conservation Area
- The Swayze Falls Trail at Short Hills Park
- The Louth Side Trail at Louth Conservation Area
After your hike, cue up comfort food favourites that will chase away any chill. Tasty choices include:
- Authentic Caribbean favourites like curries and jerk chicken at 7 Mile Bistro or a monster charcuterie board at Twenty Kitchen and Bar in St. Catharines
- Hearty pasta dishes at Just Cooking Rustic Italian or Lake House Restaurant in Vineland
- Tasty barbecue at 1954 Bourbon and Smoke in St. Catharines or Smoke and Moonshine in Beamsville
Date Idea #7: Spa Day & A Sleepover
Spending the afternoon together at the spa and then sneaking away to a cozy hotel room for the evening feels extra luxurious when the weather is cold. Some spectacular spa and stay combinations include:
- Spa On The Twenty and a room at Inn On The Twenty
- Sugar and Spice Elite Spa and a room at The Juniper Waterside Inn
- Bench and Balance Elite Spa and a room at Jordan House
- Kevin Lunn Salon and Spa and a room at Stone Mill Inn
Date Idea #8: Destination Dining
Sometimes a dinner date in your own neighbourhood feels like it’s over too soon. Picking a road-trip-worthy restaurant stretches out the fun, so you have time to enjoy each other’s company a little longer on the commute. Fabulous choices in Niagara for a meal to remember include:
Get even more ideas for enjoying a visit in St. Catharines and the Niagara Benchlands.
Supported by the Tourism Partnership of Niagara
