Whether you’re looking for inspiration in fine art, keen to explore the heritage and history of the region or looking for a show to pair with dinner out, there are plenty of choices to fill your calendar.
Port Dalhousie Lighthouses
Beacons of the region’s importance for those navigating nearby waterways, the historic inner and outer lighthouses on the waterfront were built in the late 1890s helping those navigating the lakes and Welland Canals. Their design is unusual for lake-situated lighthouses. Today the inner lighthouse is one of only three octagon-shaped structures in the Great Lakes system. A beautiful backdrop for viewing stunning sunsets over the lake.
La Grand Hermine Shipwreck
A local landmark affectionately referred to as a “ghost ship,” this was once an intact replica of the wooden ship that brought Jacques Cartier to the shores of Canada from France in the 1500s. The vessel was moved to Jordan Harbour in 1997 and in 2003 was burned in a fire. The steel hull remains, captivating passersby. Plans are being discussed to remove the ship before it further deteriorates, so the time to visit is now!
Lakeside Park Carousel
It looks like an amusement ride, but it’s also a time machine. Hop on to one of the 68 animals around the carousel – camels, horses, giraffes and more – and be transported back to the early 1900s with a ride on this historic carousel. The Lakeside Park Carousel was hand carved over seven years by Charles I.D. Looff, the renowned designer and maker of carousels, and completed in 1905.
Have a seat!
The Town of Lincoln recently installed Big Benches in various spots throughout the region. Not only are they oversized – nearly 7 feet high – but they’re located in prime locations that give you incredible views of the area, including Lake Ontario. There are currently six installed around town, with more on the way. Capture a photo sitting on each one!
Lincoln Museum and Cultural Centre
Just a short walk along Main Street in Jordan is a treasure trove of art and local history. Take in the two permanent exhibits, Fraktur, which celebrates the culture and traditions of early European settlers to the area, and Our Story, which traces the history of Lincoln, including Indigenous peoples and those who migrated here. Temporary exhibits run twice a year in the rotating gallery space, exploring other cultures and communities that have called Lincoln home. Also on site are historic buildings and living history you’ll want to explore. Fry House is a two-storey log house that dates back to roughly 1815. The Schoolhouse was once a one-room school, Jordan’s first. It opened in 1859 and was used until 1948. During the summer, both can be toured with a costumed interpreter as guide. Also on site is Haines Cemetery, a historic site that dates back to 1840.
St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre at Lock 3
Home to 800,000 artifacts and archival items that tell the story of St. Catharines and the Welland Canal, this small museum is brimming with history. Permanent exhibitions will take you through the history of the canal, a vital link between the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway, the importance the area played for those seeking freedom via the Underground Railroad, and the role immigrants have played in the city’s growth and development. Don’t miss the museum’s elevated observation platform where you might catch sight of a passing ship if your timing is right.
Salem Chapel British Methodist Episcopal Church (BME Church)
In 2023, the BME church became the first international location included in the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom program. Built in 1855, this church was a pivotal centre for abolitionist and civil rights activity during the 19th century. Harriet Tubman, who was instrumental in helping many African Americans escape slavery in the United States, lived near the church between 1851 and 1858 and was a member of its congregation. Guided tours are available by appointment between 1851 and 1858 and was a member of its congregation. Guided tours available by appointment.
Morningstar Mill
Morningstar Mill is both a monument to the cultural heritage of this part of Niagara, and to the importance of the power of water. Built in 1872 as a small flour mill, today it is one of the few mills in the province that still has its original equipment and can operate powered by water. The mill was run by the Morningstar family for 50 years, and today is maintained by a passionate group of local volunteers. Walk the grounds and enjoy a walk-through history.
The Morningstar Mill site will be closed for the 2024 season for construction. Please check visit their website for additional information.
