Things To Do
in Fort Erie
Fort Erie is a lakeside town on the southern shore of Lake Erie, just across the Niagara River from Buffalo, New York. It blends early American frontier history with family-friendly beaches, parks, and a relaxed small-town vibe. Visitors can explore historic forts, stroll along the waterfront, and use Fort Erie as a tranquil base for Niagara region day trips.
The town offers easy border access, affordable lodging, and a slower pace compared to larger Niagara attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Fort Erie Historical Museum, where you can explore exhibits detailing the region's rich history. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic Niagara River, taking in the beautiful views and the sounds of nature. Stop by a local café for a hearty breakfast featuring delicious homemade pastries and locally sourced ingredients.
In the afternoon, head to the historic Fort Erie, where you can tour the well-preserved fortifications and learn about the battles fought here during the War of 1812. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the surrounding parklands, soaking up the sun and the serene environment. As the day unfolds, consider visiting the nearby Old Fort Erie Cemetery, a serene place filled with stories of the past.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant offering classic Canadian cuisine. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront, perhaps stopping to enjoy live music or entertainment at the nearby amphitheater. End your evening with a cozy nightcap at a local pub, where you can mingle with locals and share stories about your day.
Kick off your day at Crystal Beach, a stunning stretch of sand that beckons with its warm waters and vibrant atmosphere. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or trying your hand at beach volleyball with other visitors. Grab a refreshing smoothie from a beachside vendor to keep you energized for the fun ahead.
In the afternoon, enjoy a variety of water sports available at the beach, including paddleboarding and kayaking, with rentals conveniently located nearby. Join a guided jet ski tour to explore the shoreline and enjoy the thrill of riding the waves. Afterward, unwind with a leisurely lunch at a beachside café, savoring fresh seafood and local favorites.
As the day winds down, watch the sunset over Lake Erie, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Head to a nearby restaurant for a delightful seafood dinner, where you can indulge in the catch of the day. Conclude your day with an evening stroll along the boardwalk, taking in the gentle sounds of the waves lapping at the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee to go | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to the US border and Buffalo for broader options
- Lake Erie beaches and family-friendly parks
- Calm, small-town charm with historic sites
- Affordable lodging and fewer crowds than larger Niagara towns
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared to Niagara Falls
- Seasonal tourism can bring crowds in summer
- Some attractions are a short drive from town center
- Public transit options are limited for longer trips
Places to Visit in Fort Erie
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fort ruins and riverfront vantage points offer sunset silhouettes and historical backdrops.
Wide sandy shores, colorful lifeguard towers, and expansive lake views ideal for sunrise photography.
Scenic overlooks along the river with birdlife and the waterfall-scarred landscape in the distance.
Coastal landscapes and coastal woodlands with dramatic lake horizons (note: access may be restricted; plan ahead).
Food in Fort Erie
Fort Erie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic catch-of-the-day meal featuring light, flaky perch served with crispy fries and tartar sauce, common at lakeside eateries.
Must-Try!
Breaded or battered whitefish or perch served with coleslaw and lemon, a staple at many casual spots along the lake.
A traditional Canadian dessert with a flaky shell and a rich, caramel-filled center; widely available at bakeries and markets.
Polish-inspired dumplings that appear on menus in some Niagara-region eateries, often filled with potato, cheese, or meat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, honey, crafts, and ready-to-enjoy treats; great for sniffing out regional specialties.
Occasional street-food stalls and snack spots along the lakeside during peak summer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings, quiet conversations in public spaces, and queueing for service are standard. Border-area travel benefits from patience and clear identification at crossings; tipping is customary but modest compared to some other countries.
Safety
Tipping in Fort Erie
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, standard tipping is 15-20% at restaurants if service is satisfactory. Bar staff, taxi drivers, and hotel staff often receive smaller tips in the 5-10% range as appropriate. Some venues automatically include a gratuity for larger groups.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments and cash are also common. ATMs are available in town, and many places accept contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens; bring a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings; shoulder-season crowds and lower lodging rates.
Warm to hot days perfect for beach time and lake activities; expect more families and weekend crowds; water-based activities are popular.
Comfortable daytime temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic drives, light hiking, and harvest-season meals.
Cold, with lake-effect chill; limited outdoor activities but cozy cafés and winter parks offer a quiet charm. Dress warmly and be prepared for wind off the lake.
Fort Erie at Night
Hiking in Fort Erie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic multi-use trail along the river offering water views and easy to moderate hikes.
Coastal trails around the Point Abino lighthouse area with saltwater shorelines.
Coastal paths along Lake Erie's shore with dunes and forested sections, suitable for day hikes.
Forest and meadow trails around the Ridgeway area, with nearby historical sites.
Airports
How to reach Fort Erie by plane.
Major international hub about 20–40 miles south via the Peace Bridge; broad domestic and international connections.
Smaller regional airport near Niagara Falls, NY; convenient for regional flights and connections.
Canada’s largest international hub roughly 100 miles northeast; extensive international options with driving or rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time residents and newcomers, with families and retirees common in the community.
French-speaking heritage and bilingual capabilities exist in parts of the Niagara region.
An Indigenous presence and history linked to the broader Niagara region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A winter staple with local rinks and community leagues; many residents follow regional teams.
Summer leagues and park fields are common; great for spectators and participants.
Part of Canada’s sporting culture with local youth and adult programs.
Several courses in and around Fort Erie and the greater Niagara region offer scenic rounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort Erie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries can accommodate vegetarian requests; look for veggie burgers, salads, pastas, and seasonal vegetables. Ask for substitutions (cheese, eggs, dairy) and consider seafood options if pescatarian. For markets, choose fresh produce, bread, and prepared vegetarian sides.