Admit it; you need a break. Life is supposed to be fun, too, and your inner child is yearning to come out and play. It’s high time to step up and enjoy yourself. After all, it’s Leo season, a time for romance, levity, exploration, discovery, awakening creativity, self-expression and re-invention! Learning your “turn-ons” is an essential part of life’s journey. And, under the leonine sun, the more dramatic, the better!
Why not try something edgy and fun?
Challenge Your Comfort Zone
Stepping outside of our comfort zone does wonders for our self-esteem. It doesn’t have to be a life-changing event. Just the fact that you are willing to try something new is often enough.
Perhaps it’s as simple as a scenic hike through the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve along the Niagara River where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, admire stunning views, dip your toes in the water and maybe even spot some wildlife. Or getting back on a bicycle or e-bike to explore the region’s beautiful vineyards and wineries, many of which offer tastings and tours. While you’re out and about, take time to visit local farmers’ stands for fresh produce, artisanal products and more.
Maybe it’s time to broaden your diet. Tease and educate your palate on a culinary adventure as you indulge in the local food scene by trying out different restaurants and cafés that offer unique and innovative dishes from around the world. The Menu Book mentioned above features a wide selection.
Awaken and celebrate your sleeping Andy Warhol or Trisha Romance. Unleash your creativity and learn new artistic techniques in workshops led by local artists, such as those offered at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre, RiverBrink Art Museum and Bélisle Pottery, to name just a few.
How do you feel about ghosts? Embark on a spooky adventure by joining a guided ghost walk through Old Town or Fort George, a military fortification from the War of 1812. Step back in time at the Niagara Apothecary, a restored 19th-century pharmacy that offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of medicine. You might encounter the long-time occupant, a pleasant looking gentleman dressed in 1860s period costume. He may be a little camera-shy though.
Kick it Up a Notch
Ready for a bigger hit of adrenalin? Hop on board the historic Whirlpool Aero Car (c. 1916) to soar 3,500 feet across the Niagara Gorge between the USA and Canada for spectacular views of the swirling Niagara Whirlpool 200 feet below. The experience is especially breathtaking in the fall.
Add some zip to your life. Put your fear aside to experience two world-class ziplining adventures offered by Wildplay at the unforgettable Zipline to the Falls and the Whirlpool Adventure Course.
Take to the skies for the ride of a lifetime with National Helicopters Inc. for an eagle’s eye perspective of the iconic Niagara Falls and surrounding area. Feeling romantic? Make it a sunset flight or a proposal or even a wedding event. Or finish your heli-tour with a landing at the vineyard of your choice to partake in a wine-tasting experience, a winery tour or an exquisite meal.
Prefer to be on the water rather than above it? Join other white-water warriors on a heart-thumping, adrenalin-pumping Whirlpool JetBoat Adventure up the scenic Niagara River. You have two choices: get soaked or stay dry. If you opt for the former, be sure to bring along a full change of clothing.
Breathe in the fresh and natural surrounding beauty as you kayak or paddleboard on Lake Ontario and the Niagara River. For the experienced, two-hour kayaking excursions with Niagara Kayaking depart from the shores of Niagara-on-the-Lake or Queenston. Always wanted to learn how to kayak or paddleboard? Here’s your chance. Paddle Niagara offers lessons and rentals to able swimmers as well as guided kayak tours, Kids’ Paddle Camps and their memorable Full Moon Paddles (weather permitting) under the Sturgeon Moon on August 1, the Blue Moon on August 30 and the Corn or Harvest Moon on September 29.
Go ahead: plan a date both of you will never forget!
Update Your Calendar
Whether you decide to challenge yourself or not, there’s always plenty to do in and around Niagara-on-the-Lake:
Until August 29: Music Niagara Summer Festival Concert Series
Until September 15: Jackson-Triggs Summer Concert Series
August 3: Pride and Prejudice
August 4: Craft Fest at The Irish Harp
August 6: Bell Concert at St. Mark’s Anglican Church
August 12: Peach Festival
August 12: Sip, Savour & Stroll
August 13: Shades of Rosé
August 13: NOTL Kinsmen Show & Shine Car Show & Barbecue
August 19-20: Fife & Drum Muster & Soldiers’ Field Day
August 23: Shades of Summer Dinner
August 26: Glowing Sushi Night at Reif Estate Winery
August 26 & 26: AWA Niagara Festival at RiverBrink Art Museum
August 31: Heritage Garden Party at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum
September 3: Bell Concert at St. Mark’s Anglican Church
September 8: Moonlight Picnic at Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
September 15: Icewine Cocktail Party
October 21: Doors Open Niagara-on-the-Lake
October 28 to December 3: Bravo Niagara!