Where to eat, drink, and play in Ridgeway, ON
Located 25 minutes south of Niagara Falls is the quaint, up-and-coming village of Ridgeway. It has a has a picturesque downtown with trendy restaurants and shops, and a Saturday morning Farmer’s Market in the summer. It’s about 10 minutes from the Peace Bridge that connects Canada and Buffalo, NY. It neighbours the beach-town of Crystal Beach which is just minutes away (guide to Crystal Beach coming soon!).
The main drag of Ridgeway is located on Ridge Rd and is the perfect spot to start a day exploring the village.
To eat & drink:
335 on the Ridge—the first restaurant to bring fine dining to Ridgeway. The food is second-to-none, and the ambiance inside AND on the patio is idyllic. Order the cup n char pizza and a dirty gin martini. 335 Ridge Rd.
Brimstone Brewing Co. Ridgeway’s own brewery and smokehouse! Be sure to make a stop here, even just to pick up some local brew and check out the space: it’s located in an re-imagined 20th century church. 209 Ridge Rd.
To Play:
Bernard Beach: At the end of Bernard Rd is a small parking lot with public beach access. If you go early in the summer you can snag a spot to lay down, but I more-so recommend it as a jumping off point for a walk along Lake Erie. In the summer the water is beautiful here, and usually crystal clear, so it’s perfect if you want to go in for a dip. But, regardless of the time of year, it is a picturesque spot to check out.
Farmer’s Market: On Saturday mornings from May-Oct at the end of Ridge Rd you’ll find live music, local makers, fresh produce, bakery stands, and so much more. It’s starts early in the morning and ends early afternoon.
Friendship Trail: Go on a walk or bike ride down the Friendship Trail which runs 16km’s from Fort Erie down to Port Colborne. There are many jumping on and off points, but an easy spot to hop on is at the end of Ridge Rd.
To Shop:
Lovely Day: A charming store lovingly curated with a mix of vintage, new, and artisan-made goods. 285 Ridge Rd.
Gypsy Ridge Studio: Hand made home goods, vintage and repurposed clothing, jewelry and some furniture! A very enjoyable shopping experience. 247 Ridge Rd.
Lakeside Books & Art An adorable two-storey shop full of neat books, toys, and vintage knick knacks. Give yourself some time to get lost for a while. 341 Ridge Rd.
Lasting Impressions This shop has been around for more than 20 years and is a benchmark in the area. The whole store is colour-coordinated for a very pleasing shopping experience. 327 Ridge Rd.
Your Farm Gate I can’t mention food in Ridgeway and not talk about this local butcher. This is where you will find the highest quality meat in the area. They have a whole animal approach (nothing goes to waste) and all meat comes from local farmers. 3822 Dominion Rd.
