First things first: gas prices are down, so take advantage of it.
And, if you’re travelling from the US, you’re in luck! Your US $ goes much further in Canada. Thanks to a really embarrassingly favourable exchange rate. For example, US $1 gets you $1.30 in Canada. Or, a $99 Shaw theatre ticket would cost you about US $76 (subject to change and based on daily exchange rate).
Living in or near Toronto? No need to rent a car: hop on our luxury motor coach (free WiFi included, of course) for just $25 round-trip per person. Learn more.
You can also take the VIA Rail or the Niagara GO Bus.
There’s a wide variety of options when staying and dining in Niagara-on-the-Lake — hotels, motels, B&Bs, vacation rentals by owners, camping, etc. check out Niagara-on-the-Lake Tourism for more information — but might we suggest:
The Residence and Conference Centre, a unique and affordable alternative about 15-minute drive from The Shaw and across from the Outlet Collection (go bargain-hunting!) at Niagara.
Camping? Why not. Niagara area campgrounds let visitors get closer to the great outdoors, one of Niagara’s best assets. There are many options here. A quick Google search will link you to a selection of local campgrounds such as Shangri-La, Bissell’s Hideaway, Jordan Valley Campground, and more.
Stay nearby. Niagara Falls and St Catharines are two Niagara cities that boast affordable accommodations within a 20 minute drive to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Check out niagarafallstourism.com or tourismstcatharines.ca for your best options.
Eat on the cheap. Food and wine? Wine and food? The two go hand-in-hand in the Niagara Peninsula, one of the great wine regions of the world and a big player in the farm-to-table cuisine. It’s worth splurging on a meal if you can, but there are always cafés and pubs, or picking up a Shaw picnic for $11.95 and eating it by the Niagara river and gazebo, that might make saving there worth splurging elsewhere.
With kids? In addition to the activities listed above, here are activities that every member of the family will enjoy. Some are free but most have a cost. Please visit the various websites below for pricing and more information.
Happy Rolph’s in St Catharines, along the shores of Lake Ontario, and only about 10 minutes from Niagara-on-the-Lake, provides an opportunity to experience a variety of animals, birds and plants, in a natural setting. Visitors can also enjoy quiet seating – picnic lunch occasion! – and viewing opportunities along Lake Ontario or adjacent to two ponds on site. The site also features the 9/11 Memorial walking Trail. Free.
Or go to the Butterfly Conservatory in Niagara Falls.
In Niagara-on-the-Lake, let history come back to life with a visit to Fort George, a military post that goes back to the war of 1812. Self-guided tours of the Fort with interactive reenactments within the buildings. Musket and canon demos daily.
Backstage Tours at The Shaw
Take a peek behind the scenes and explore the inner workings of a large-scale theatre company. Discover what it takes to bring the plays to vibrant life.
Niagara Historical Museum
Dedicated to understanding the history of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Ghost Tours
Experience Fort George after dark. In addition to one of the prettiest towns in Canada, Niagara-on-the-Lake is commonly referred to as the most haunted. May to October.
Niagara-on-the-Lake Public Pool and Tennis Courts
Daily public swim times available. Court times available through the town.
Simcoe Park
Located in the center of historic Niagara-on-the-Lake with a wading pool with fountain and great playground. Free.
Zoom Leisure Bike Rentals
Bike rentals for the whole family including children’s bike, baby trailers and trail a longs that attach to an adult bike like a tandem.
Whirlpool Jetboat Tours
Splish splash! Head down the Niagara river for a fun – and wet – ride. Height restrictions for the Wet Jet tour are 44” (avg 6 year old) and for the Doom Tour 40” (avg 4 year old). Under 16 must be accompanied by a parent.
Paddle Niagara
Get a unique view from the Niagara River down onto Lake Ontario as your guide teaches you the basics of paddle boarding. (10 yrs+)
Niagara Heritage Trail
Visit the Laura Secord Museum and the Mackenzie Printery and Newspaper Museum among other.
Our Ways to Save include lower prices for visitors under 30, season’s passes, senior pricing, and special promotions. See if you can scoop up a discount! Also, make sure you sign up for The Shaw’s eNewsletter for the occasional special offer.
Not picky on what date you see a show? Check out Today’s Deal for amazing prices on specific performances.
We also offer occasional perks with your tickets, like winery tour vouchers.
Now, a cheaper (and more delightful) way to get to The Shaw from Toronto: The Toronto-Niagara Shaw Express! Why rent a car when you can take a luxury motorcoach here & back for only $25? Learn more.
