Welland, known for its natural beauty and vibrant community life, offers so many outdoor activities to enjoy no matter your age or interests. From hiking trails to water sports, there are endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors in Welland, making it the ultimate outdoor destination. We’ve rounded up the top things to do in Welland that’ll make you want to spend all your time outdoors in this scenic city.
The Empire Sportsplex is a multi-purpose facility offering sports and fitness activities. It’s a great place to play outdoor sports or work out, and is suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. Enjoy the sunshine on one of several volleyball courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, and pickleball courts.
The facility is also home to a state-of-the-art fitness centre, indoor turf fields, and is well-maintained with top-of-the-line equipment — making it the perfect place to train, practice, or simply have fun with friends. Also on site is the Jumpstart Multi-Sport Court, made possible by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. This Multi-Sport Court offers inclusive amenities such as cushioned court surfacing, adjustable volleyball and basketball nets for seated and standing games, shaded benches, high-contrast colours and a self-guided free play area.
And if you’re looking for a fun and challenging workout, the sportsplex also offers group fitness classes, including spin, boot camp, and Zumba, led by experienced and certified instructors who are passionate about helping you achieve your fitness goals.
The Welland River is the perfect spot for adventure-seekers. It winds through the heart of Welland, providing paddlers with a unique perspective of the city. Its relatively shallow waters and gentle current makes for an easy and enjoyable paddle, and is home to a variety of wildlife including waterfowl, turtles, and fish, providing kayakers with a chance to observe the natural habitat up close.
Many tour operators also offer evening paddles, providing a unique opportunity to experience the river under the stars. Kayakers can choose to explore the river on their own, or join a guided tour to learn more about the history and ecology of the area.
The Welland Recreational Canal is Welland’s premier spot for fishing, home to a variety of fish species, including bass, pike, and carp. The canal is a 10km-long waterway that was constructed in the early 20th century to bypass the Welland Canal, and provide a safe and scenic route for pleasure boating and water sports. Today, the canal is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Anglers from all over can be found fishing from the shore, or at one of the many docks and piers located along the canal. It’s also a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and canoeing — so whether you want to rent a boat or bring your own, this scenic waterway is ready for exploration at your convenience.
The Welland Waterfront Trail is a scenic 13km trail that runs along the Welland Canal and the Welland Recreational Waterway. It’s part of the larger Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, a 3,000km trail that runs along the shorelines of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. Offering stunning views of the canal, the waterway, and the Niagara Region’s natural beauty, visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, including picnic areas and benches.
The trail also has several access points, making it easy to start and finish your journey at different locations. Visitors can pass through several parks including Chippawa Park, which has a playground, a splash pad, and picnic areas.
If you want an authentic Welland experience, a trip to Welland Stadium for a Welland Jackfish game should be at the top of your list. The Welland Jackfish is a Welland-based professional baseball team that’s a member of the Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) — the oldest operating independent baseball league in Canada. The team plays its home games at Welland Stadium, a historic ballpark that has been the home of baseball in Welland since 1925. The stadium underwent extensive renovations in 2019, and today features modern amenities such as a video scoreboard, a new sound system, and improved seating and sightlines.
The Niagara Circle Route is a popular destination for biking enthusiasts of all levels, offering a scenic and challenging ride through some of the most beautiful areas in southern Ontario. The route is approximately 140km long and takes riders through a variety of landscapes, including waterfront trails, vineyards, and charming small towns.
One of the highlights of the Niagara Circle Route is the Niagara Parkway, a picturesque stretch of road that runs parallel to the Niagara River. The route is also home to several bike rental shops and tour operators, providing riders with everything they need for an enjoyable and stress-free ride.
The Welland Slo-Pitch League is a recreational softball league based in the city of Welland, open to players of all skill levels. Games are played at local parks and ball diamonds throughout the summer months. The league consists of multiple divisions, with teams organized by skill and competitive level. The league is run entirely by volunteers, with a dedicated executive board overseeing its operations. With its emphasis on fun and inclusivity, it’s a great source of summertime entertainment and a beloved part of the Welland sports scene.
Thinking about making your time in Welland more permanent? Learn about our newest community, Empire Canals, and join our interest list to stay in the know on the latest release of homes.
Next, check out these fun water-based activities in Southwestern Ontario and discover why you’ll love living at Empire Canals.
Images courtesy of: Wikipedia (Welland Stadium); Niagara Region (Niagara Circle Route); Niagara Falls Review (Welland River).