Downtown St. Catharines

About Downtown St. Catharines

Downtown St. Catharines is the vibrant heart of the city, combining historical charm with modern amenities. Known for its curved main street, St. Paul Street, the area is home to over 100 heritage buildings, some dating back to the early 19th century. This historic core also features Montebello Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, famed for creating New York City’s Central Park.

Recent revitalization has transformed downtown into a cultural and economic hub, with 120+ local shops, 50+ eateries, and the renowned FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.

Rich in history, the area—once called Shipman’s Corner—was a key stop on the Underground Railroad and home to Harriet Tubman. Notable sites include Salem Chapel and one of Ontario’s oldest farmers’ markets.

Popular Spots in Downtown St. Catharines

• FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre: A cultural hub featuring live performances, films, and workshops.
• The Merchant Ale House: A beloved brewery known for craft beer, casual fare, and live music.
• Farmers’ Market at Market Square: One of Ontario’s oldest markets offering artisanal goods and fresh produce.
• Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts: A campus of Brock University located in the heart of downtown, fostering arts education.

Interesting Facts

• St. Paul Street was once an Indigenous trail connecting Queenston to Hamilton.
• The Welland Canal, a historic engineering marvel, is closely tied to the city’s development.
• Montebello Park features the city’s largest rose garden with over 1,300 bushes.

Whether you appreciate history or modern life, Downtown St. Catharines has something for everyone.