St. Catharines, known as the “garden city” with a population of 135,000 people has become the dominant centre of the Niagara Peninsula. Although the city has grown commercially and industrially, it has not abandoned its agricultural roots. The Niagara Escarpment provides a natural shelter for soils that are particularly conducive to fruit growing. These two factors, plus a climate favorable to fruit production, have led the development of the fruitlands to such an extent that they are one of the most productive agricultural areas, not only in Ontario and Canada, but the world. St. Catharines is well located from many cities. 45 minutes to Toronto, 30 minutes to Buffalo USA, 5 minutes to Fonthill/Town of Pelham, 15 minutes to historic Niagara on the Lake , and 10 minutes to Niagara Falls. St. Catharines enjoys a unique micro-climate because of the moderating influence of the two Great Lakes: Erie and Ontario and also due to the sheltering effect of the Niagara Escarpment. From early spring when acres of orchards are in full bloom, until the grapes harvest in late fall the surrounding countryside beckon visitors with brilliant colours of its fields and flowers. When you first discover St. Catharine rural routes you will feel like you are entering a different country, perhaps in Europe especially when you see Hernder Estate Winery a charming restored 1867 barn with stone turret, covered bridge, pond and classic elegance which houses a complete winery including tasting room, gift shop and wines. The setting is breathtaking and a perfect backdrop for pictures which newlyweds and local photographers have discovered. Located between the shore of Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment St. Catharines offers a diversity of accommodations, restaurants and shopping. St. Catharines is Niagara’s premiere shopping destination featuring the regions largest mall The Pen Centre, conveniently located next to the highway with over 162 stores and one million square feet of floor space for your shopping pleasure. The newest addition is the Famous Players Silver Screen multiplex cinema complex with food, family fun, party rooms, where no seat is bad and with 8 screens to choose. The dining experience has become an exciting mix of traditional and ethnic cuisine. Savor the marriage of fine estate wines and unique regional cuisine prepared by critically acclaimed chefs. Find over 200 restaurants offering ethnic family, casual and upscale eateries to suit any palate. The dynamic night life and club scene will suit all ages. Our Grape and Wine Festival offers VQA wines with over 64 wineries in and around St. Catharines to sample. The ice wines are among the finest found anywhere. St. Catharines a city for all seasons features vineyards, orchards, natural areas, waterways and diverse ethnic population base to make interesting events and festivals all year round. The outdoor enthusiast and connoisseur of culture alike will find a wealth of interesting activities in our Garden City. Visit a harbourfront historic village known as Port Dalhousie to shop, eat and explore. Watch a massive freighter climb its way up the mighty Escarpment in the Welland Canal through the lock system or enjoy the serenity of a bird sanctuary or art gallery nestled on picturesque Twelve Mile Creek. Enjoy many live theatre productions, concerts at the Centre for the Arts at Brock University or visit one of Canada’s oldest farmer’s market in downtown St. Catharines where you will find a mix of specialty shop, services and restaurants. You will be amazed at the architectural richness of its buildings which ads to your downtown experience and enjoyment. Whether is sports, the arts, community envelopment or enjoying nature St. Catharines and the Niagara Peninsula have everything one could ask for.