Historic Boutique Inn near Niagara Falls

The Stone Mill Inn is a relative newcomer, but the building that houses it is much older. It was built in 1860 to serve as a cotton mill—the structure was one of the first of its kind in Canada. Today, the architectural beauty of the historic structure has been restored; as you stroll through the halls of the inn, you’ll notice wrought-iron gates, original stonework, and a grand staircase modeled after the ones on the Titanic.

The inn is just 15 miles west of Niagara Falls—a convenient location for exploring the region. In addition to the famous waterfalls, the area is known for its collection of wineries. With this deal, you’ll get a chance to experience some of them for yourself; tastings for two at Ravine Estate Winery, Diamond Estate Winery, Southbrook Vineyards, and Niagara College Teaching Winery are included.

You’ll also get a $20 dining credit to use at Johnny Rocco’s Italian Grill. Across the street from the inn, Keg Steakhouse Bar & Grill offers prime rib, seafood, and sirloin.

Each of the inn’s 34 suites is unique and contemporary; some units feature exposed brick walls and dark leather furniture. King suites are decked out with flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, and Keurig coffeemakers. Downstairs, you can get a massage, facial, or salon services at Azura Spa + Hair Studio.

St. Catharines, Ontario: Historic Port City on Lake Ontario near Niagara Falls

The city of St. Catharines sits along a harbor located between Lake Ontario and Niagara Falls. There are galleries, restaurants, and boutiques along the pier, which is bookended by two lighthouses dating back to the 19th century. At Lakeside Park, you can ride the famous Lakeside Park Carousel. Less than 4 miles (6 km) north is the Lock 3 Museum & Viewing Deck for the Welland canals system of locks that extend all the way from Lake Ontario to Lake Erie.

The area around St. Catharines is a globally recognized cool-climate region for winemaking. Nutrient-rich sediment from the surrounding Great Lakes helps winemakers produce top-notch rieslings, chardonnays, and pinot noirs. Several nearby wineries host tastings and tours.

Located about 15 miles east of St. Catharines, Niagara Falls straddles the Canada-U.S. border. There are segments of the falls located in both New York and Ontario, but the Canadian side of the Niagara River is universally hailed as the finest vantage point to take in all three of Niagara Falls’ photogenic brinks: American, Bridal Veil, and Horseshoe Falls. Niagara Boat Tours ferry raincoat-clad passengers around the base of the falls from April through October, depending on the river’s ice conditions.

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