Queenston Heights – Ontario, Canada

The biggest surprise of our trip to the Niagara Falls area occurred one afternoon while we were traveling along Niagara Parkway about 15 miles north of Niagara Falls. We were enjoying the view when suddenly there was this very tall monument.

“Wonder what that is about?”

With a turn of the rental car steering wheel, we drove into a lovely park area – Queenston Heights.

We decided to explore. The 185 foot tall monument is Brock’s Monument. It is the second monument built on this site. It was built in 1853 after the original monument was destroyed by terrorist in 1840. (Some things never change.) It was a little strange to see a monument to a British major-general that led a campaign against the Americans in the War of 1812.

Guides in costumes were available to answer questions.

Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for a panoramic view of the Niagara River and the surrounding area. I love this door.

The gardens were beautiful with boxwood hedges and lush lawns. Everything was so green.

In the Queenston Heights Park there is also a restaurant.

It isn’t just any restaurant. It is a famous restaurant. We had no idea.

Basically this restaurant is an event center for weddings and corporate events. A few years ago Queenston Heights was listed (Brides Magazine???) as one of the top wedding venues in the world. (I saw the sign, but didn’t take a picture.)

The patio area is open to visitors for casual dining.

Be still my heart! This was our view of the Niagara River flowing towards Lake Ontario. What a view.

Not only was the view breathtaking, the food was fantastic. On the advice of our personable waitress Anne, I ordered the Lobster Grill Cheese Sandwich with Root Vegetable Chips. Sweet Mother of Pearl! This is food to write home about. You could taste the lobster, and the melted cheese was not overpowering. This sandwich was so yummy! The chips were yellow and red beet chips. I had never heard of beet chips before – I liked them.