If you're passionate about art and history, you're in for a treat. Niagara-on-the-Lake is a vibrant destination brimming with captivating museums and diverse art galleries. From intriguing historical exhibits to local pottery and oil paintings, this charming town has something for every art enthusiast. Here are four must-visit galleries and a standout museum to explore during your stay at The Scotsman.
1. Gate Street Studio
Gate Street Studio tells stories of personal history and connection through its captivating artifacts, including vintage maps, aged books, and delicate lace on canvas. Sandra Lafrate, the studio’s owner, showcases a diverse portfolio featuring portraiture, landscapes, and still-life compositions, hoping to inspire viewers to reflect and experience their own stories through her layers of artwork. Located on Gate Street – true to its name - the studio is open every day of the week from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a special open studio visit and artist talk on August 10th, at 7 p.m., where you can learn more about her process and truly connect with her pieces of work.
2. Lakeside Pottery
Since opening their studio in 1989, Ron and Barb Simmermann have created unique stoneware pottery in their garden studio. Over the years, they’ve refined their designs and decorative motifs, ensuring that each piece is not only visually stunning but also functional. Many of their pieces have been inspired by the lush surroundings of the Niagara region and the way the vineyards and orchards lead to the cool blue of Lake Ontario. Located on Lakeshore Road, Lakeside Pottery resides on the waterfront and is a mere 10-minute drive from The Scotsman, making it the perfect afternoon activity. Their gallery is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.
3. Niagara Image Gallery
Formerly known as “The Romance Collection Gallery,” the Niagara Image Gallery showcases the art of Trisha Romance, Tanya Peterson, Jordan Morrison and Alex Colville. These experienced artists, each with their own specialty, develop artwork known and loved worldwide. The Scotsman is privileged to have a custom art piece of the hotel painted by the talented Tanya Peterson. It can be spotted hanging in one of our lounges. Located on Stone Road, their pieces can be explored from Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
4. Queenston Pottery
Founded in 1978 by Eva and Frank Mlcak, Queenston Pottery has become a cherished staple in the Niagara region. Queenston Pottery offers something for everyone, from dinnerware to platters, mugs, plates, and bowls, each with distinctive hand-painted designs and glazes. While visiting their gallery, they encourage those to wander through their luscious gardens and experience the bliss of the wine country. Located on York Road, their studio is open Thursday to Monday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. To learn more about their artworks, visit queenstonpottery.com.
5. Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum
The Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum is home to one of the finest early Canadian artifacts and archives collections. The Museum has over 8,500 artifacts, 41,000 documents, 4,000 photographs and 900 books. The Museum also hosts historical walking tours every Sunday starting at 11 a.m. Located only one street over from The Scotsman, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum offers the perfect enjoyment for any afternoon. To learn more about the Museum and its offerings, visit notlmuseum.ca.
While staying at The Scotsman, immerse yourself in the rich art and cultural scene that surrounds the hotel. From handmade paintings by some of the best artists in the world to gorgeous pottery and historical artifacts, there is something for every art lover in this town. Speak with our concierge today to discover more of the art offerings in the Niagara Region.
