Ontario Premier Doug Ford Unveils Niagara Tourism Strategy Updates in Niagara Falls

Ontario Premier Doug Ford held a press conference in Niagara Falls on February 25, 2026, to discuss updates on the "Ontario Building Destination Niagara" strategy, part of his government's ambitious plan to boost tourism and local economic development in the region.

The initiative, initially announced in December 2025, is a multibillion-dollar strategy designed to draw 25 million visitors annually, effectively doubling the current count of 13 million. It aims to generate an additional $3 billion to the GDP yearly, while supporting over 40,000 jobs in the $3 billion tourism industry—an industry that accounts for approximately 6% of the region's economic output.

Key Components of the Strategy:

• Tourism Attractions: New major developments such as a theme park, an observation wheel similar to the one in London, and the redevelopment of significant locations like the Ontario Power Generating Station and the Niagara Parks Marina. Moreover, a 3.8 km electric tram offering spectacular views of the Falls will be constructed through Queen Victoria Park.

• World-Class Gaming: An expansion of the casino offerings, modeled after Las Vegas-style facilities, with the intention of attracting additional hotels, entertainment venues, and dining options.

• Culinary and Wine Tourism: Boosting the region’s agritourism sector, including promoting its wineries, restaurants, and local beverage production.

• Arts and Culture: Investments include funding events such as the Shaw Festival and the enhancement of historical landmarks.

• Transportation Improvements: Plans include the widening of the QEW highway, twinning the Garden City Skyway, expanding GO transit services, and extending the Niagara District Airport runway by 3,000 feet.

Premier Ford was accompanied by key representatives, including Prabmeet Singh Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation; Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming; Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati; and Niagara Parks Chair Bob Gale.

The provincial government has indicated that it will collaborate with Niagara Parks and pursue private-sector partnerships through a "Request for Information" to make the signature theme park a reality.

The news conference in Niagara Falls did not bring any new announcements beyond highlighting ongoing commitments and partnerships established since the strategy's inception.

Ford's visit underscores the province's commitment to investing in Niagara's tourism infrastructure and positioning it as a world-class destination.