Heritage & Culture
Heritage
Step back in time & experience the sights and sounds of a fort under siege at this War of 1812 National Historic Site. Join First Nations, British and American soldiers on a tour of the grounds and learn more about Niagara’s pivotal role in the War of 1812.
The Niagara Frontier was a main route used by fugitive slaves fleeing to Canada. Fort Erie’s border location across from Buffalo made the Town an Underground Railroad station. Learn more about black history in Niagara’s South.
Culture
Inspired by country roads, lush farms & rocky coastlines, spend a day or two travelling 50 km from Wainfleet through Port Colborne, into Ridgeway and Crystal Beach, visiting studios & galleries showcasing Niagara-inspired artists & photographers. There is no shortage of art to admire & culture to experience.
Lighthouses
The iconic Gravelly Bay Lighthouse in Port Colborne and Fort Erie’s Port Abino Lighthouse played a vital role in the operation of the Welland Canal, the main commercial route connecting ships from Lake Ontario to Lake Erie.
Theatre
Head off-off-Broadway in Niagara’s South Coast! Showboat Festival Theatre presents live professional theatre every summer in Port Colborne, while Garrison Little Theatre in Fort Erie is a non-profit, volunteer based community theatre group that has been entertaining crowds since 1986. From murder-mysteries to comedies and more, everyone loves a little drama in life, don’t they?
Events
Each season offers a showcase of culture across Niagara’s South Coast. Learn about history and enjoy the live experiences at Welland’s Concerts on the Canal and Port Colborne’s Canal Days Festival, both offering evenings with an array of musical talent and popular album covers. With new festivals, events and immersive experiences launching annually, please visit our events page for updates!
Live Music
Experience live music in unique and memorable venues, such as The Sanctuary of the Arts in Ridgeway, or even local bands playing stripped down sets at our breweries and restaurants. Music can be found everywhere, right here in Niagara’s South Coast.
Waterfront
Heritage sites, historical museums and unique artifacts offer many ways to connect with the history of the Welland Canal, the role the lighthouses played in this history, and of course, just sitting on a bench watching the world flow by is an interesting experience too.
