Port Colborne, Ontario

Port Colborne is a port city of 18,000 residents located at the southern entrance of the Welland Canal on the northern shore of Lake Erie.

Port Colborne has the distinction of being home to one of the longest locks in the world.

Following the completion of the canal in 1833, this small settlement on Gravelly Bay was given its present name in honour of Upper Canada's then Lieutenant-Governor Sir John Colborne, who was instrumental in securing funding for the canal project.

Since the first vessel emerged from the canal here in 1833, the presence of the Welland Canal, which bisects the city, has played an instrumental role in shaping the city of Port Colborne.

By the 1880's, Port Colborne had become an important summer tourist resort as side-wheeling steamers, steam engine locomotives, and high wheeled bicycles brought hundreds of tourists on a daily basis to lake-side beaches and recreational destinations.

Nickel Beach consists of more than a mile of white sand, providing great windsurfing, swimming and sunbathing. Shady picnic areas along with rest room facilities and a food concession stand meet all needs.

Sherkston Shores has over seven kilometres of clean sandy beaches and is one of North America's largest campground sites. A giant water slide, mini golf, tennis, picnic groves, water sport rentals, and horseback riding assure you'll never get bored.

Among the many areas where ships can be seen passing through the downtown area is from Fountain View Park, overlooking one of the world’s longest locks.

Canal Days at the beginning of August offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the city’s rich nautical history. A midway, evening performances by live bands, street vendors and clowns all make for a memorable and fascinating weekend.

Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum located on King Street explores the areas’ rich heritage. On the grounds of the museum is a 1869 historic home with exhibits relating to the Welland Canal’s history and other assorted maritime memorabilia.

Stroll down historic West Street, which features charming shops and boutiques or take a break and enjoy an ice cream cone on one of the many park benches dotted along the way. Port Colborne is a perfect family destination.