About Welland
When the modern Welland Canal was rerouted east of the city in the 1970s, Welland turned its old canal cut into one of the most unusual urban waterways in Canada. The Welland Recreational Canal now runs straight through downtown — 12 kilometres of calm, controlled water hosting the Welland International Flatwater Centre, home to world-class rowing, canoe-kayak and dragon-boat racing.
The city was nicknamed the Rose City for the gardens that once lined its streets, and that civic-pride streak still shows. Welland's downtown is known for its 30+ outdoor murals depicting local history, its multicultural food scene (especially Italian, Hungarian and South Asian), and the Welland Farmers' Market — one of the oldest continuously running markets in Ontario.
Around the canal you'll find Merritt Island parkland, kilometres of waterfront trail, and a steady rhythm of festivals: the Welland Rose Festival, Floatfest, and major regattas every summer. It's a working city with deep canal roots, a strong sports identity, and a quieter, more affordable feel than its Niagara neighbours.
From the community
Welland through your lens
What makes Welland unique
Local character
Hardworking, multicultural and proud of its canal heritage. Friendly, unpretentious and deeply tied to the water.
Historic significance
Built around four generations of the Welland Canal; the old canal cut through downtown is itself a National Historic Site corridor.
Tourism style
Active waterfront — paddling, rowing, festivals and trails — paired with affordable dining and small-town downtown energy.