St. Catharines, Ontario

History, fine wine, and a penchant for the arts – just some of the things you'll find in St. Catharines, set near the scenic shores of Lake Ontario.

St. Catharines, settled by United Empire Loyalists in 1790, and once the last stop on the Underground Railroad and a center for abolitionist activity in North America, is today a lively modern city.

St. Catharines' population of 129,170 can count on a number of industries to fuel the local economy. General Motors has two manufacturing plants in the city, and both the tourist and wine industries play larger roles in its economic life.

Situated on the northern entrance to the Welland Canal, the city offers ample opportunities for sailing and boating, and for sport fishing on Lake Ontario. And if you'd prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, St. Catharines has over 90 kilometers (56 miles) of hiking trails linking the city with the Bruce Trail, and nearby Short Hills Provincial Park. Bicyclists might also note that St. Catharines and the Niagara region in general have, in recent years, become a favorite spot for enthusiasts.

Present and past combine in Port Dalhousie, St. Catharines' historic harborfront village. Visit a restaurant, do some shopping, or maybe just take a break after a day spent watching the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta on the lake.

The arts also play a key role in the life of St. Catharines. The city is home to the Niagara Symphony, as well as the Niagara Folk Arts Festival, a "16-day cultural extravaganza" that draws in people from all over the region. The famous Carousel Players offer intimate and interactive theatre for the younger set, and St. Catharines' Niagara Artists' Company supports the work of local artists.

Not to be forgotten is the fact that St. Catharines is located in the center of Ontario's wine country, and three large vineyards are located in and around the city – Harvest Estate Wines, the Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery, and Hernder Estate Wines. The city fetes their wines, and those of the broader region, in its many wine festivals held throughout the year, where you can sample anything from new vintages to ice wine.

So treat yourself to a glass of wine and enjoy your new home in historic St. Catharines.

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