Niagara Falls ON Golf Weekend - Fat Guy's Guide to Golf, Beer, Wings, and Life

Niagara Falls ON Golf Weekend

T&L Golf, 7/07

Niagara Falls, Ontario
The Place: The falls remain one of the world's great natural wonders, and both the views and the golf offerings are stronger on the Canadian side. With a huge influx of new hotels and inns, easy access via Buffalo Niagara International Airport, and a city that has long had a love affair with tourists, Niagara Falls makes for an ideal summer stopover.

Playing: Whirlpool Golf Course A classic design by Stanley Thompson, this was Niagara Falls' first championship-caliber public course. A great value, Whirlpool is often very busy, so book early. $58-$67. 905-356-1140, www.niagaraparksgolf.com/whirlpool.

Loch Ness Links Designed by Graham Cooke, this gem has long attracted Americans crossing the border for some great value-priced golf. As its name would suggest, Loch Ness Links offers a links-style theme throughout. $59-$68. 905-346-2664, www.lochnesslinks.com.

Legends on the Niagara (Battlefield and Ussher's Creek) The brawny, bold features of the main courses, designed by top Canadian architects Doug Carrick and Thomas McBroom, respectively, are complemented by the beginner-friendly Chippawa course, a collaboration between the two designers. A massive practice facility rounds out the offerings. $72-$113. 905-295-9595, www.niagaraparksgolf.com.

Staying: Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview With a spectacular view overlooking the Horseshoe Falls, the Radisson is centrally located, providing easy access to all of Niagara Falls' key attractions while remaining affordable. $116-$224 per night. 905-356-1944, www.radisson.com.

Dining: Hard Rock Café Conveniently located in downtown and connected to the Casino Niagara, this rock-and-roll-themed restaurant remains a lure for tourists and locals alike. 905-356-7625, www.hardrock.com. $$

Other Activities: After you've finished your round and enjoyed a meal, take a walk to the Fallsview Casino, a huge draw for the region since it first opened in its permanent location in 2004. Open twenty-four hours for those who want to sneak in a hand of blackjack before their morning round. 888-325-5788, www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com.