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Summer’s heat often brings a slower place to the day.

Once the day’s work is done, Niagarans from all 12 municipalities head outdoors to enjoy a lazy afternoon or evening on the best patios in Niagara. 

Whether it’s their own patio, or the outdoor dining room of their favourite restaurant or winery, there are a few things you can count on as good weather arrives: The fare will be a little lighter, conversation and company will be lively, and who knows – you may even have room for dessert.

Regardless of the actual date, “summer” weather may hit Niagara anywhere from late March to mid-May. That’s one of the things our McGarr Realty team of experts love to tell newcomers: We have great weather here!

We also have a vibrant entertainment and dining scene, with choices for every budget – even in areas like the Niagara Falls tourism district. And thankfully, most of our awesome restaurants, including those located at wineries, feature patio dining.

Some of the best patios in Niagara as ranked by our McGarr Realty team include:

  • Niagara’s wineries. To check out a list of ALL the wineries you can visit, head to Wine Country Ontario’s website, where grape-growing areas are broken down by region, to make finding your favourites a little easier. In the summertime, there is often entertainment on a patio, especially on weekend days.
  • Anywhere with a view: We’re talking about patios adjacent to water or green spaces – and there are plenty of those in Niagara! Take a drive through any of our 12 municipalities and you’re sure to happen upon a pretty spot with a cafe or restaurant featuring a patio. One of our new favourite spots with a view is Taris on the Water, located at 25 W. Main St., Welland. It’s like a wine country bistro, but overlooking the Welland Canal – a beautiful spot. For other great lake views, try Port Colborne, Fort Erie, Port Dalhousie (St. Catharines), Niagara-on-the-Lake or even Grimsby. While there isn't a lake view, there are plenty of beautiful patios in Pelham at the top of the escarpment.
  • We love Niagara Falls, too – there are so many beautiful patios! Niagara Parks Commission properties along the Niagara Parkway from the Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake offer gorgeous views and plenty of places to stop and enjoy a picnic. If you want a restaurant with a view, try Elements on the Falls; Queen Victoria Place; the Queenston Heights Restaurant; Whirlpool Restaurant, or Legends on the Niagara. Enjoy afternoon tea at McFarland House, or grab a quick bite while relaxing outside at Table Rock, or from the Butterfly Cafe at the Butterfly Conservatory.

If you are actively seeking Niagara real estate, it’s good to spend some time in our 12 municipalities, to see if you can get a “feel” for home.

Browse the shops, visit the parks, and find a great little restaurant or cafe patio, where you can soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the view.

It’s a great way to wind down and put things into perspective after viewing properties or visiting open houses. It’s also a great way to enjoy summer’s slower pace, once the work day has been put to bed.

Once our team of experts at McGarr Realty has helped you locate your dream home, the only question remaining will be whether to stay on your own patio, or pick one offering a gorgeous view and a delicious dinner.

We have just one piece of advice: Save room for dessert!

Are you ready to begin your home search? At McGarr Realty, we’re ready to help you find the perfect property!

Reach our staff by calling the McGarr Realty office at 905-468-9229 in Niagara-on-the-Lake, or 905-687-9229 in St. Catharines. Alternatively, send us a message HERE.

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