Fort George is the town's most important historic site — a restored British fortification from the War of 1812 that saw its share of action when American forces captured and partially burned it in 1813. The reconstruction is thorough, with period-costumed staff and good interpretive displays. The Shaw Festival, running from April through October, fills three stages with productions ranging from classic George Bernard Shaw to contemporary Canadian theatre and is one of the strongest theatre companies in North America.
Fort Mississauga, at the mouth of the river where it meets Lake Ontario, is a quieter alternative — a round tower and earthworks dating from the same period, set on the grounds of the golf club and accessible without a fee. The Niagara Apothecary on Queen Street, a former pharmacy from the 1820s, is one of the best-preserved Victorian interiors in Canada and is free to visit.
Wine touring is a full afternoon's occupation — the wineries lining the Niagara Parkway and the back roads are mostly accessible by bicycle on flat terrain, and the region is one of Canada's best for white wines and ice wine.