Port Colborne, located on Lake Erie at the southern terminus of the Welland Canal, is one of the greatest small towns in Canada for raising children. Not only does the city of 19,800 feature sun, sand and an easy lifestyle, but it also has been nationally recognized for above-average academic achievement for elementary-aged school children.

Founded in 1833 with the construction of the Welland Canal, and built around the fishing and marine industry, Port Colborne has retained a quaint charm, yet has moved to diversify its local economy by building on the Niagara-wide tourism strategy. The features include well-groomed golf courses, marinas, arenas, pools, and miles of sandy beaches, including the nearby Sherkston Shores, with more than three kilometres of white, sandy beachfront. Lock 8, near the entrance to the Welland Canal, measures 421 meters, and is one of the longest locks in the world. There is a viewing stand in Fountain View Park.

The city heavily promotes its public and private beaches, as well the 900-slip marina at Sugarloaf Harbour. It has also developed an active arts community with its own theatre (the Roselawn Complex), museum, and art galleries that draws from Niagara and beyond.

The city has developed a series of special events, family festivals and the Canal Days marine heritage signature event. Thousands gather on the August holiday weekend for this annual waterfront family festival, which includes tall ship cruises, fireworks, multi-cultural food, kids zone and heritage displays. Other attractions include the Showboat Festival Theatre at the Roselawn Centre Theatre; the Antique Power Show in Sherkston during the Canada Day weekend; and the International Week at Lakeview Park in mid -July.

Visit the City of Port Colborne's Web Site at http://www.portcolborne.com