tourism niagara falls canada

25 Awesome Things to Do in Niagara Falls, Canada

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here

Looking For Things To Do In Niagara Falls, Canada? Let’s Go!

It’s no secret that Niagara Falls is one of the top attractions in all of Canada (and the world). So if you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re thinking about visiting and you’re looking for things to do when you visit!

And whether you’re travelling as a couple on a weekend trip , as a family with kids, or as a solo adventurer, there is no shortage of both touristy and non-touristy things to do and see!

We had the best time exploring Niagara Falls (the Canadian side). It was Lisa’s first time and she loved spending time by the falls themselves.

That said, Niagara Falls (the Canadian city) can be overwhelming at times – and finding unique things to do seems difficult with all the top attractions right in your face.

So, we’ve pulled together this very detailed guide on basically everything there is to do – even if you’re exploring Niagara Falls at night or in the winter! Let’s explore the Canadian side of Niagara Falls!

Niagara Falls Quick Guide

Best Time to Visit:  Very busy in the summer season but best chance for nice weather. Autumn for colours – and Niagara Falls is also worth a visit in winter!

Getting Around:  Downtown Niagara Falls is very walkable, but you can also make use of the WEGO Bus .

Top Things to Do : Half-Day Niagara Falls Tour (w/ Boat Cruise), Journey Behind The Falls , Scenic Helicopter Tour , MistRider Zipline .

Where to Stay:  We stayed at A Moment in Time B&B . Good Hotels for Falls Views are Marriott Fallsview or Embassy Suites by Hilton .

Table of Contents

Top Things To Do In Niagara Falls, Canada

Let’s dive into this list of things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada. Of course, this isn’t everything there is to do and see and we only briefly cover the American Side of the Falls.

However, we think it’s a well-rounded list of the top attractions people come for as well as things to do that are connected to exploring the natural beauty of the Niagara Region!

There are lots of great tour, attractions, and activities in Niagara Falls including boat cruises, museum tickets, nature attractions, and more. You can explore top activities in Niagara Falls on both  Viator  and  GetYourGuide .

Keep in mind that some places or activities are only open/available during the warmer months. For example, the Voyage to the Falls boat cruise do not run in the winter. Don’t worry – there are plenty of great indoor alternatives to choose from!

Admire Niagara Falls

You don’t need to justify coming to Niagara Falls. There’s a good chance people already know what you want to see when you get there – the waterfalls!

The famous falls are a very popular Ontario attraction for a reason. Luckily for you, there are three waterfalls to keep and your adventurous soul busy.

As we mentioned above, Niagara Falls is a term used to describe the set of three waterfalls at the one site where the Niagara River cuts away at the Niagara Gorge. The waterfalls are as follows:

• Horseshoe Falls  or  Canadian Falls  (shown above) is the one you are probably thinking of when you think of “Niagara Falls”. This is the waterfall that is attributed to the Canadian side. It’s the one with the distinct “U” shape!

• The American  Falls  (shown above and below) is the waterfall that is totally on the US side of the river. It’s very flat in profile with many rocks at the base.  
• Finally, there is the Bridal Veil Falls (shown above and below) which is the very small waterfall to the right of the larger American Falls.

Now, if you are on the Canadian side, you can see all three waterfalls perfectly – which is why some claim the Canadian side of the river is the best to visit.

However, the US side has many green parks and similar boat ride attractions so it’s definitely also worth checking out for a different perspective.

The thing about the Canadian side is that there is a massive walkway that follows the river – giving you great vantage points for all the Falls. Close to Horseshoe Falls, you’ll find the Table Rock Welcome Centre.

We’ll cover it in more detail but there are restaurants and many attractions actually start here. You can go behind Horseshoe Falls with the attraction “ Journey Behind the Falls ” and walk on those lower paths to get really close while you wear the rain ponchos!

Now, if you are exploring the US side of the river, you can see the Falls from Niagara Falls State Park. Like the Canadian side, there are upper walkways that allow you up-close views of the Falls.

There are also lower walkways to get  really close  to the American Falls. These wooden walkways are called the Cave of the Winds. 

This post is about attractions on the Canadian side only. If you are interested in Falls attractions on the US side, then check out this ultimate USA Half Day Falls Tour .

This will allow you to see all the Falls from various angles and attractions (like Cave of the Winds and the famous Maid of the Mist boat tour). 

In any case, there are so many unique ways to experience the actual waterfalls at Niagara Falls. We list many of them below – but you can even combine many of the top ways to see the Falls into one awesome ticket or tour.

If you want to experience the Falls lit up at night, then check out this Niagara Falls Night Cruise with Dinner .

If you are short on time and want to experience everything – and on both sides of the river – then that is also possible.

Check out this Ultimate Tour with the Maid of the Mist US Cruise and then Skylon Tower on the Canadian side ! This tour starts in the US but you can be picked up on either side. Don’t forget your passport!

Subscribe to Ontario Away!

Receive updates & our monthly Ontario Events Calendar straight to your inbox.

• I agree to receive email updates and promotions. | For more details, review our  Privacy Policy . *

You can unsubscribe anytime. No spam.

Niagara Hornblower Cruise

Address: 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada

One of the most popular attractions (if not the most popular) on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is the Hornblower Cruise  – also known as “Voyage to the Falls”! 

To clarify: you might be familiar with the “Maid of the Mist” boat tour that takes you to the Falls, too. This is the boat tour from  the American side of the River.  It does the exact same thing as the Hornblower – but you can check out the Maid of the Mist boat tour here .

If you know you want to hop on the Hornblower Cruise on the Canadian side, you can buy your skip-the-line Hornblower tickets in advance here . 

You can buy tickets onsite through the self-serve kiosks but given the visitor numbers in the summer season, we’d suggest buying in advance to ensure your date and time.

Plus, this skip-the-line Hornblower ticket means you can head right down to the funicular to get on your cruise!

To get down to the boats, you can actually take a funicular ride. The Niagara Hornblower Funicular ride is an attraction in itself which we cover right below this one!

Once you are down there, you dawn a red poncho (to distinguish yourself from the blue ponchos from the American Maid of the Mist tour) and off you go towards Horseshoe Falls!

These boats have an upper deck where you get exposed to all the elements but they also have lower-level viewing with seats. 

So, to summarize – you can check out tickets to take the Hornblower Cruise from the Canadian Side here . If you wanted to do the Maid of the Mist on the American side (and visit the Cave of the Winds), you can find those cruise tickets here.

Niagara Hornblower Funicular + Riverside Patio 

If getting a different perspective of the Falls is what you’re after but you want to keep things on the budget side, you might want to just ride the Hornblower Funicular.

While the Funicular is meant to take people down for a boat cruise (and is included in the cruise ticket price), you can take it for the cheap ride and the unique views as you glide down unto the Gorge.

The Funicular was originally built back in 1894 and was rebuilt carefully to preserve the delicate walls and plants of the Niagara Gorge. The cable cars offer amazing views as you descent – and they even have audio commentary!

Once at the bottom, there’s a large Riverside Patio where you can enjoy a bite to eat, a drink, or just a snack as you enjoy the views of the Falls and watch the cruisers head off on their adventure! 

Journey Behind the Falls

Address: 6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 3E8, Canada

If heading  behind Horseshoe Falls is something you’re looking to do, then you should definitely do the Journey Behind the Falls !

Once you head down 125 feet, you can walk through tunnels that snake behind the thundering waterfalls. From there, you can emerge onto the lower platforms at Horseshoe Falls (with rain poncho on, of course) to get up close to the action.

The start of this adventure is located within the Table Rock Welcome Centre – which is right beside the brink of Horseshoe Falls (shown in the photo above). This is a top experience at Niagara Falls and it’s usually packed together with the Hornblower Cruise for an ultimate day !

WildPlay MistRider Ziplining

Address for Zip-lining: 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada

Ever wanted to go zip-lining? Have you been before? In any case, why not go zip-lining as you head straight towards Horseshoe Falls!?

WildPlay (the outdoor adventure company) brings you this 670-metre-long zip line starting from an elevated platform above where you get Hornblower tickets! You can check out MistRider zip-line tickets here .

If you want to monkey around some more, you can also check out their Adventure Course near the Niagara Whirlpool.

Clifton Hill Attractions

Address: Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

No stop to Niagara Falls Canada is complete without a stop at Clifton Hill – known as “The Street of Fun at the Falls!”

Even if you aren’t travelling with kids, you need to walk up and down Clifton just once. This very touristy area is absolutely packed with attractions, museums, shops, eateries, sweet treats, and more! You have to see it with your own eyes.

There are some attractions that are more well-known than others – like Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium , Dinosaur Adventure Golf, The House of Frankenstein, the Great Canadian Midway, Guinness World of Records, Louis Tussauds Wax Museum, Escape Rooms, bowling, and more.

‘We had one pass through and stopped into a few sweet shops to check out the chocolate, fudge, and candy options. 

You can even do more like go Go Karting at the Niagara Speedway – which is located at the top of the hill.

The hill itself overlooks the American Falls with the Sheraton Hotel standing at the base of all the attractions.

There are plenty of places to eat on the Hill but do check the reviews and the menus because some places have horrible service and have really high prices for the tourists.

Overall, Clifton Hill (and the surrounding downtown area along Victoria Avenue) are kind of like sensory overload – great for kids, though and something you definitely have to experience once.

If you plan on visiting a few attractions, you might consider a Clifton Hill Fun Pass which essentially gets you admission into 6 top attractions like the Niagara Skywheel, Dino Adventure Golf, and more!

Niagara SkyWheel

Address: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N4, Canada

Speaking of the Niagara SkyWheel – while you’re exploring the Clifton Hill area, it’s hard to miss the Niagara SkyWheel.

Opened in 2006 and standing at 53 metres tall, this ferris wheel is another great way to see the Falls from a unique perspective.

It’s also located right above the Dinosaur Adventure Golf so there’s no shortage of fun when you get off! If you want to go for a loop, you can buy your SkyWheel tickets in advance here .

Skylon Tower

Address: 5200 Robinson St, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 2A3, Canada

If heights are for you, then a trip up the Skylon Tower is for you! Opened back in 1965, the tower is located right downtown – you cannot miss it wherever you are. You get to take the “Yellow Bug Elevators” to the top where you get 360-degree views of the Falls and the surrounding area!

You can get your Skylon tickets here for the observation deck – but you can even head up there for a meal if you are hungry at their famous Revolving Dining Room Restaurant and or their Summit Suite Buffet.

Either way, you get to eat about 236 metres above the Falls!

Niagara Helicopter Tour

Address: 3731 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6V5, Canada

If you want a bird’s eye view of the waterfalls and the surrounding area, a helicopter tour might be for you. A ride with Niagara Helicopter Tours is a memorable experience that’ll stick with you for a long time! 

Departing from the heliport north of downtown, you’ll head over the Niagara Gorge/River back towards to main Falls area. You can even see as far as the Toronto skyline on clear days on this 12-minute flight!

Eric did a helicopter tour with his dad in the Canadian Rocky Mountains so a trip over Niagara Falls is definitely next on the list!

If you’re interested in memorable Niagara experiences, you might want to check out the ultimate Niagara Falls day tour where you can combine a helicopter tour with a boat ride, a trek behind the Falls, and a meal in the Skylon Tower to see ALL angles of Niagara Falls!

Queen Victoria Park

Address: 6345 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada

Situated along the upper walkway along the Niagara Parkway (the road that drives along the Gorge beside the river), you’ll find a lovely green space called Queen Victoria Park.

This large park kind of separates the whole downtown areas near the American Falls and the Canadian Falls. We had a wander through and it was a lovely space away from all the noise and people!

There’s actually this old-looking house – it’s currently the headquarters of the Niagara Parks Police. There are many statues and historical sites scattered throughout the park area.

The flowers were also beautiful when we visited – and Niagara Parks makes a big deal about their well-maintained flowers!

Niagara Falls Nightly Fireworks + Illumination of the Falls

If you’re into fireworks, then you should really head to Niagara Falls in the summertime. Each summer – from June to September with additional weekends after – there is a fireworks display at 10:00 pm over Niagara Falls!

The fireworks can be seen from many vantage points – so you don’t have to be right at the river’s edge to see them. Many people can see them from their hotel windows, balconies, and some other places around downtown!

As for the Falls themselves, they light up, too! Each evening – whatever the season – special lights create the effect of illuminating Horseshoe Falls.

These lights follow calendar dates and are a sight to see for sure! If you want the ultimate experience, you should hop on a Firework Night Cruise to the Falls to see the fireworks and Illumination up close.

Fallsview Casino Resort

Address: 6380 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 7X5, Canada

One of the largest attractions at Niagara Falls is the casinos – and Fallsview Casino Resort is the main one.

Located right downtown on Fallsview Boulevard, this massive complex is a hotel and casino and includes restaurants and a live entertainment venue for shows, musical performances, and more.

Rainbow Bridge

Address: 5702 Falls Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3K7, Canada

For some of the best views of the Falls, a nice walk, a cool breeze, and the chance to “stand in two countries at once”, check out Rainbow Bridge!

Originally built in back in the 1940s, this arch bridge is also a main international border between the US and Canada. There are customs checkpoints at each end because the line and the flags in the middle mark where the border is! 

If you want to explore the US side of the Falls, this is the way to go. Just be sure to have your passports/appropriate visas with you! The bridge is good for car traffic as well as having a safe pedestrian-only walkway.

There’s also a toll to cross which is more for cars than just people walking. If you want to walk from Canada to go and take photos on the bridge but NOT enter the US, this is also possible.

Either way, you have to pay four quarters (US quarters OR Canadian quarters) as foot traffic leaving Canada. Be sure to have change before you go because there IS a change machine on site but it can break and the lines can be long!

After you snap a few photos with your feet on each side of the border line, you’ll have to re-enter Canada through customs – but this shouldn’t be a problem since you just came from there!

IMAX Niagara Falls

Address: 6170 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 7T8, Canada

If you’ve had enough of the outdoors for one day and want to be entertained but also comfortable, why not check out the Niagara IMAX theatre?

Located right downtown – close to the hotels like the Hilton – you cannot miss the massive pyramid building. Inside, the IMAX experience is like none other. 

The show all about the Falls – Miracles, Myths, an Magic – teaches you about the history of the Falls and the people who have challenged the Falls and lived to tell the tales!

There are also audio guides available for the movie to be experienced in multiple languages. You can check here for your IMAX ticket .

Niagara Falls History Museum

Address: 5810 Ferry St, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 1S9, Canada

If you’re interested in Niagara Falls – the region – and not just the waterfalls, then check out the Niagara Falls History Museum . Opened in its current version in 2010, this museum is dedicated to telling the rich history of the region.

From what the river/nature looked like back in the day to the wars fought between the British and the Americans in the bloody battles of 1812, this museum is packed with things to check out and even  try on!

The museum is located close to downtown but you can take the WEGO as it heads down Lundy’s Lane.

This area is also packed with military history – like the Drummond Hill Cemetery and the Battle of Lundy’s Lane – so it’s a great place to dive into history if that’s your interest!

Bird Kingdom

Address: 5651 River Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 7M7, Canada

It’s easy to get close to wildlife if you’re in Niagara Falls – just head to Bird Kingdom !

Located just a minute walk from the American Falls (and under the Rainbow Bridge), this massive glass building is actually the largest free-flying aviary in the world!

This means that the birds get to fly about in their natural habitat – which is maintained indoors all year round.

Bird Kingdom specializes in tropical bird species (the ones that are pretty colours). It’s great because there are also many different areas to explore.

In some of them, you can hold some of the birds and learn about them from the staff and guides.

The Botanical Gardens + Butterfly Conservatory

Address: 2565 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2S7, Canada

The farther you move from downtown Niagara Falls, the quieter and more natural the scenery gets. If this is calling to you, then head for the Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Conservatory.

Located about a 10-minute drive north on Niagara Parkway from downtown, this 99-acre complex founded in 1936 is maintained by Niagara Parks.

These days, visitors can wander the grounds, check out the beautiful displays and gardens – and the world-famous rose gardens known for having over 2,400 roses!

Onsite with the Botanical Gardens is another unique Niagara attraction – the Butterfly Conservatory!

You get to walk through a lush tropical climate with waterfalls and plants to check out over 2,000 butterflies! The giant glass greenhouse full of plants and animals is a highlight of the experience – and you even get a short informational video to start off.

Get your Entrance Ticket for the Butterfly Conservatory here .

If you want them to land on you, move slowly and wear light, bright colours. Your visit is a self-guided tour so you can walk through it at your own pace.

The White Water Walk

Address: 4330 River Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 6T2, Canada

If you want to get up close to the rushing river – but not in the actual river like on a boat cruise – then the White Water Walk might be for you.

After you head down into the Niagara Gorge about 70 metres by elevator, you get about 400 metres of boardwalk to do a self-guided tour. There are tons to learn about – like the 410 million-year-old rock layers and the plant and animal life. 

The boardwalk even features viewing platforms at the edge of the river so that you can get closer to the famous Whirlpool Rapids.

This is something we didn’t do but drove by and DEFINITELY want to check out next time we visit.

Niagara Glen + Nature Centre

Address: 3050 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada

Sticking to the theme of natural attraction north of downtown, check out the Nature Glen .

You get to head down stairways that take you along 4 kilometres of pathways deep within the Niagara Gorge. The area is known for its unique Carolinian Forest, many fossils, rock formations, and more.

The Glen area looks out over the Niagara River Whirlpool which is always fascinating to see from different vantage points! There are guided hiking tours and you can even go bouldering at the Niagara Glen!

Once you are done hiking – or before you begin – you can also check out the Niagara Glen Nature Centre .

This Centre that overlooks the river offers you beverages and souvenirs. They also sell bouldering permits if you want to climb around on the rocks in the Glen.

Whirlpool Aero Car

Address: 3850 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 3E8, Canada

One of the most extreme ways to discover the Niagara Whirlpool (besides a jet boat, see below) is to soar over the top of it! To do this, you can take the Whirlpool Aero Car.

Built back in 1916 by Spanish engineers, a one-way 10-minute ride takes passengers over 500 metres between two points on Canadian soil passing over the churning waters of the whirlpool almost 80 metres below. 

You actually cross into the US while in the air but you don’t need any ID or clearance for this since you go from Canada to Canada! We stopped while driving along the Parkway but ran out of time to do the Aero Car.

It’s definitely something that we want to do in the future! If this interests you, check out this combo ticket for the  Whirlpool Aero Car AND the Journey Behind the Falls adventure !

Niagara Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours

Address of Floral Clock Pick-up: 14004 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6K2, Canada

It’s one thing to look at the Niagara River from above – it’s another thing to ride  on it.  With the Niagara Whirlpool Jet Boat tour , that’s exactly what you can expect!

Choosing either a wet tour (and you WILL get wet) or a dry dome boat, these hour-long guided tours of the Niagara River are definitely something to be experienced. Oh, and you reach speeds of almost 100 km/hr!

The jet boat actually leaves from three locations, with the main dock in the small town of Queenston (north of downtown Niagara Falls) being the most central.

If you are going on the jet boat, you can make your way using the WEGO shuttle to the Floral Clock and then get a  free shuttle  to the boat from there (shown above). Of course, you can also just go right to the dock but it’s not as straightforward if you don’t have a rental car .

The jet boats then take you up the river, passing through the Niagara Gorge and many historical points along the way. You pass through the Whirlpool and other sets of white water rapids, too!

Of course, the staff walk you through all the safety procedures beforehand. Oh, and if you ride on an open-top boat, be sure to bring a full change of clothes! If you’re keen for some adventure, you can book your spot on the whirlpool jet boat tour here .

Whirlpool Golf Course

Address: 3351 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1J0 (close to the Nature Glen Centre)

If golfing is your thing, then you don’t have to stop your game when you’re in Niagara Falls. North of downtown Niagara – located right beside the famous Niagara River Whirlpool – is the  Whirlpool Golf Course .

This top-rated public course is on a piece of pristine Ontario land just off of the Niagara Parkway. This means that players have easy parking and easy access to playing a round.

The course also has a beautiful clubhouse for having a bite to eat at the restaurant or a drink afterward.

Floral Clock

Address: 14004 Niagara Pkwy, Queenston, ON L0S 1L0, Canada

The Floral Clock is one of those things that you don’t really think of as significant until you realize the size of it and the effort that goes into creating it!

Located north of the Botanical Gardens (close to Queenston Heights Park below), the Floral Clock is a monument that actually functions as a working clock. 

The clock’s face is covered in around 16,000 small flowers (known as carpet bedding plants) and creates a colourful design.

The clock mechanisms are run by Ontario Hydro – who also runs the massive hydro dam nearby. The clock chimes every 15 minutes and the back door to the clock might be open for you to see the clock mechanisms and old photos from previous clocks!

This location (as we mentioned above) is also the meeting point for the Whirlpool Jet Boat shuttle. There’s loads of parking and we even saw people having picnics since there’s a green space and tables here, too.

If nothing else, it’s a nice stop for some quiet time away from downtown Niagara Falls – or check it out on the way up to Niagara on the Lake!

Queenston Heights Park

Address: 144 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada

Another great place to check out is Queenston Heights Park .

Located just a minute or two north of the Floral Clock (and thus far from downtown Niagara Falls), this massive green space is loaded with things to check out. The entrance is around a roundabout – something you don’t see too often in Ontario!

We had a stop-in and had a walkabout. Notably, the park is the home of two monuments: the Brock Monument and Laura Secord Monument.

We actually walk to the base of Brock Monument and had a look out over the Niagara on the Lake region and the river. The park’s location high on the Niagara Escarpment means that you get really, really great views.

There’s also loads of space for a nice picnic in the park as well as a beautiful old-looking dining experience at Queenston Heights Restaurant.

We found lots of space for parking and there are even washrooms on site should you be wondering.

Take a Niagara on the Lake Wine Tour

If you want to get away from downtown Niagara Falls for a half-day, consider a trip up to Niagara on the Lake (the town) and do a wine tour around the region. We actually did a half-day winery tour experience  and had a blast trying wine while being driven around.

Exploring wineries like Ravine, Inniskillin, and Reif Estates and more was well worth it! The best part is that this premier wine region is only 20 minutes north of Niagara Falls! We also wrote a whole post on our Niagara on the Lake winery experience here !

Things to Consider When Visiting Niagara Falls

If you’re planning a visit to Niagara Falls, there are a few things you should know about the layout of the area, the waterfalls, and the borders.

From getting around to determining when you should visit and where to stay, here’s some information to help you plan the perfect trip!

General Information About Niagara Falls

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the area, Niagara Falls is a city in Ontario, Canada. Across the border/river, there is also a Niagara Falls, New York in the US – just to make things confusing.

The grouping of waterfalls at that point is ALSO called Niagara Falls – and there are  three waterfalls  (Canadian Falls “Horseshoe Falls”, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls).

Niagara Falls, Ontario is part of the greater Niagara Region which also includes an area to the south of Lake Ontario called Niagara on the Lake.

This region is special due to its climate and geography – thus making it a top wine-growing region in Canada – and known globally, as well. If you’re into wine, check out some of our favourite Niagara on the Lake wineries .

Back to Niagara Falls, you can cross the border into the US (on Rainbow Bridge) to see their side of the river but you will need a passport or form of formal ID. Also, while you are in Niagara Falls, Canada, you should expect to use Canadian money.

Cards are also widely accepted. However, given the proximity to the US border, many retail places in Niagara Falls, Canada will accept US Dollars – but don’t bank on that as a hard rule (pun intended).

Best Time to Visit Niagara Falls

As for the best time to visit Niagara Falls – it really depends on what you expect to do and see. The summer months in Ontario are hot and humid making them prime tourist season.

Niagara Falls is VERY BUSY from Mid-June to the end of August. Depending on how hot September is, it might still be busy then, too. 

If you want the warmer weather, we’d suggest going in May/June or September/October. These are known as the shoulder seasons that avoid the middle of summer and dead of winter.

That said, we have never been but have heard (and seen photos) that Niagara Falls is beautiful in the wintertime . The ice forms from the mist of the Falls and it makes for great photos. 

Niagara Falls also does a big New Years Bash with fireworks which is pretty popular. The point is: Niagara Falls doesn’t shut down in the wintertime since there are many indoor activities and most of the outdoor ones don’t even close down!

Getting Around Niagara Falls

If you’re staying in downtown Niagara Falls, you will be able to walk basically everywhere. This is where many of the top attractions are located – and we focus on these in this post.

That said, there are some attractions that require renting a car or taking a bus to get to (we cover these attractions further down in the post).

If you do have a car and are driving in for the day or want to park near the Falls, there are lots of parking lots very close to Horseshoe Falls. It won’t be cheap – but it’ll be convenient!

If you are without a car, Niagara Falls has a bus transit system that you can certainly use – but they also have an amazing tourist-specific bus system called the WEGO . 

WEGO runs three coloured lines with routes that cover: all over downtown to top attractions, along the river north to more attractions (the Floral Clock), along Lundy’s Lane (a historic and popular district to visit), and even an extension shuttle service from April to October into Niagara on the Lake (where the wine country is).

The three lines meet around the Table Rock Visitor Centre at Horseshoe Falls. You can learn more about the routes and prices here . Don’t forget about Niagara Falls taxis if you want a quick way to get across town to an attraction but don’t have a car on hand.

Just so you know, there’s also an Incline Railway that goes from the Fallsview downtown area to close to Horseshoe Falls behind the Table Rock Welcome Centre.

The walk from downtown to the walkway beside the Falls is actually quite hilly so this is useful for those with mobility impairments, lots of kids, elderly guests, or just tired legs from all the exploring! You can learn more about the Incline Railway here .

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls

We’ve actually written a whole guide on great hotels and accommodations in Niagara Falls . That said, we’ll cover the basics here in case you are looking for a place to stay in Niagara Falls.

Basically, there are a TON of hotels, a handful of motels, and quite a few bed and breakfasts. Many people stay in or near downtown so that they are close to top attractions – and many choose to stay in a hotel where they can see the waterfalls. 

If you know you want a hotel in Niagara Falls, you can  check here for hotels in Niagara Falls . If you want to stay in an accommodation where you are very close to Clifton Hill attractions and see the  American Falls from your hotel , these are amazing hotel options on the Canadian side:

• Sheraton on the Falls  – shown in the above photos. Doesn’t get more central than this!
• Quality Hotel Fallsview Cascade  – a budget hotel located downtown where you can see the Falls from some rooms!

If you are looking for a hotel that overlooks the Canadian Falls (also known as Horseshoe Falls) , then check out the following “Fallsview” hotels:

• Embassy Suites by Hilton  – (shown in the photo above) – all suite-style rooms
• Tower Hotel at Fallsview  – (shown in the photo above) – the round tower-looking hotel!
• Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa  – (shown in the photo above) – has spa facilities
• Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview  – (not shown above) but had some great “Fallsview” rooms
• Marriott on the Falls  – (shown in the photo above) –  a simple hotel with amazing views

If you want a more cozy stay, there are plenty of great bread and breakfasts scattered around the quieter neighbourhoods and along the Niagara River/Gorge.

These are generally more historic houses that have a lot of character and friendly hosts who whip together a mean breakfast! You can  check here for bed and breakfasts in Niagara Falls . 

We stayed in  A Moment in Time B&B  when we visited Niagara Falls.

We loved our stay: the hosts were friendly, the large bed was comfortable, the breakfast was filling and fresh, and the property was only 15 minutes to downtown walking (which we enjoyed). We’d recommend staying here for sure!

*Friendly Disclaimer: We paid for this stay with our own money. This is not a sponsored promotion in any way.

Related Articles

If you are exploring the Niagara Region and/or are travelling to Niagara Falls from Toronto , here are a few more helpful posts to check out:

• Where to Stay in Niagara Falls (+ Best Falls View Hotels)
• Niagara on the Lake Wineries + A Top Winery Day Tour Guide
• Things to Do in Niagara on the Lake
• Niagara on the Lake Accommodations

And there you have it – some of the greatest things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada! There is just so much to see besides the waterfalls themselves and we feel like sometimes people forget that!

Be sure to explore the whole area as much as you can to really get the most out of your Niagara Falls experience!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? -L&E

Pin it for later!

Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

Connect With Us On Social

If you'd like to join the conversation and get more tips, you can find us on social media as well!

Niagara Falls   Travel Guide

15 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls

Updated March 29, 2024

The waterfalls are the main attraction here, and there's a range of ways to see them: from observation decks at the brink on both sides; from their foot on the legendary Maid of the Mist boat tours; from behind in caves accessible by elevator; or

• All Things To Do

Maid of the Mist Maid of the Mist

The main reason to visit Niagara Falls is to see the falls, and one of the most memorable ways to do just that is to sport a poncho and hop on a Maid of the Mist boat. These boats have been shuttling visitors to and from the base of the falls since the 1840s, but today’s fleet is sustainably all-electric. Be prepared to get wet: The Maid of the Mist practically dunks you under the falls, but rain gear is provided, and many say that this is one of the best ways to experience the splendor of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and the Horseshoe Falls. In fact, it's one of the region's best guided tours .

Recent visitors said you can't leave Niagara Falls without taking a ride on the Maid of the Mist.  Though you are provided with a plastic poncho, you should plan to wear waterproof shoes and gear, according to travelers.

Niagara Falls State Park Niagara Falls State Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Just steps from the park is Old Falls Street, a pedestrian-only cobblestone avenue that comes alive in summertime with food trucks, vendors, street performers and events. Take a stroll to discover backyard board games, public art and prime people-watching. – Devon Dams-O'Connor

New York’s oldest state park is the American side’s front row seat to the falls.

White Water Walk White Water Walk

If you're looking to view the falls from a more natural setting than the Maid of the Mist or the Journey Behind the Falls , spend an hour or two stretching your legs on the White Water Walk. After taking an elevator 230 feet to the base of the gorge, you'll be able to walk along a quarter-mile boardwalk that overlooks the Great Gorge Rapids from the Canadian side of the Niagara River. Along the walk are several observation areas where you can get a great view of the rapids. According to the park, these viewing platforms are where you can capture the best photos within the park.

Some recent visitors were disappointed with the short boardwalk, but others loved being able to see the force of the rapids up close and praised the incredible views. Several reviewers also suggested stopping to read the informational plaques that are placed along the boardwalk, as they provide interesting information about the daredevils who have attempted to cross the river.

Popular Tours

Niagara Falls in 1 Day: Tour of American and Canadian Sides

(5072 reviews)

from $ 189.95

All Inclusive Niagara Falls USA Tour W / Boat Ride, Cave & Much MORE

(758 reviews)

from $ 89.99

The iconic Boat Ride- Maid of the Mist ticket- Best selling Tour! Get Tickets

(114 reviews)

from $ 54.00

Journey Behind the Falls Journey Behind the Falls

On the Journey Behind the Falls, you'll be able to stand directly behind the roaring sheet of water and get a literal behind-the-scenes peek at this magnificent natural attraction. The tour begins with an elevator ride to an observation deck where you can take in the view of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls and the Niagara River. From there, follow the 130-year-old caverns and enjoy the roaring curtain of the falls from a different perspective. However, be prepared for crowds – Journey Behind the Falls is one of the most popular ways to see the falls, so you may find that the tunnels are rather cramped.

Recent visitors highly recommended the Journey Behind the Falls, even if you've already gone on a Maid of the Mist tour, as this attraction offers yet another interesting perspective of the falls. To avoid crowds and enjoy the view in peace, reviewers suggest getting to the attraction when it opens at 8 or 9 a.m., depending on the month. Ponchos are provided, but travelers report leaving a little damp anyway.

Cave of the Winds Cave of the Winds

Many recent visitors called the Cave of the Winds a "must-do" when in Niagara Falls.

After taking an elevator 175 feet down into the Niagara Gorge, you'll be able to roam a series of wooden walkways that put you within feet of the Bridal Veil Falls. It's called the "Hurricane Deck," thanks to the tropical storm-like conditions. Even with the souvenir poncho, you'll likely get wet. You'll also have access to The World Changed Here Pavilion, an indoor multimedia exhibit area that educates visitors on how Nikola Tesla used the power of the falls for electric currents and what the falls looked like before they became the tourist attraction they are today.

Queen Victoria Park Queen Victoria Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: One of the best times to visit the park is in the springtime when temperatures warm, crowds are minimal, and the park is exploding with color thanks to several species of flowering trees and more than 500,000 blooming daffodils. – Devon Dams-O'Connor

Laced with lush gardens and winding paths, Queen Victoria Park is the front-row seat to the falls. It’s situated directly across the gorge from the cascades and offers some of the best vantage points to see the American and Canadian Horseshoe falls, and the more than 100 fireworks displays that illuminate the skies above the brink each year.

Old Fort Niagara Old Fort Niagara

If you enjoy history, make sure to save time for a visit to Old Fort Niagara. Located on the U.S. side of the falls, this 17th-century fort has changed hands between French, British and American troops. This site has seen action during numerous wars, including the American Revolution and the French and Indian War, making it the longest operational fort in North America. Today, the fort occupies one of the most scenic areas in western New York, overlooking both Lake Ontario and the Niagara River. Inside, you can explore underground gunpowder rooms, old army barracks and ancient cannons. If you're looking for a more in-depth history, make sure to stop by the visitor center, which features a short introductory film, a War of 1812 flag and original artifacts.

Recent visitors raved about the well-preserved buildings and clean grounds, and were especially impressed with the re-enactors, who perform musket and artillery firing demonstrations during the summer months. Many also said they initially only planned to spend an hour exploring the grounds, but ended up staying half the day thanks to all the interesting demonstrations and exhibits.

Niagara Glen Nature Centre Niagara Glen Nature Centre free

If you need a break from the crowds near the falls, visitors recommend you enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre. Situated off the Niagara Parkway on the Canadian side of the falls, this nature preserve overlooks the Niagara River and its natural whirlpool, offering more than 2 miles of trails through preserved Carolinian Forest.

Recent visitors enjoyed hiking through the preserve, especially in the fall, when the trees begin changing color. Some suggest hiking boots rather than sneakers for sections of rougher trail. Reviewers were also impressed with the on-site nature center and its knowledgeable staff. From the center, visitors can also join daily guided hikes, which are available from May through August.

Niagara Falls American Side Highlights Tour of USA

(3519 reviews)

from $ 92.95

Niagara Falls Canadian Side Tour and Maid of the Mist Boat Ride Option

(2841 reviews)

from $ 159.95

Niagara Falls- Cave of the Winds- Afternoon Tour

(17 reviews)

from $ 47.00

Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory

To escape the thunderous falls and tourist crowds, take an afternoon and lose yourself in the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. If you like nature, the gardens are a must-see. This 99-acre space is home to dozens of meticulously maintained gardens – cared for by students, staff, alumni and groundskeepers at the on-site horticulture school – featuring thousands of species of plants. During the summer, guided horse-and-carriage tours allow you to explore the gardens in style. The gardens are also home to the Butterfly Conservatory, where several thousand butterflies flit and flutter among brightly colored flowers.

Recent visitors said a visit to the gardens and the butterfly conservatory provided a nice respite from the kitschy atmosphere around the falls. Reviewers cautioned that the butterfly conservatory can get crowded later in the day, but noted that the gardens were quiet. A few reviewers felt the ticket price for the butterfly conservatory was too expensive. 

Clifton Hill Clifton Hill

U.S. News Insider Tip: At night, the top of the SkyWheel on Clifton Hill is one of the best spots to catch a glimpse of Niagara Falls illuminated by multicolored lights and fireworks displays over the falls nightly from May through October. – Devon Dams-O'Connor

Clifton Hill is a tourist district on the Canadian side of the falls filled with family-friendly attractions and nightlife.

Niagara Gorge Trails Niagara Gorge Trails free

Hike down into the gorge below the falls to experience miles of boulder-strewn trails and quiet picnic spots along the churning Niagara River. Several trailheads along the rim of the gorge descend via wooden or stone stairs into the base of the ravine, where explorers can choose from a variety of trail lengths and difficulties.

The Devil’s Hole trail starts at a staircase in Devil’s Hole State Park and offers a moderate, 3-mile out-and-back hike past the rapids and the spooky Cave of the Evil Spirit. Or, hikers can connect to the Whirlpool Rapids trail, a 3.4-mile round-trip trek from the stairs at Whirlpool State Park that rewards more experienced hikers with challenging terrain near the famed Niagara Whirlpool. The Niagara Gorge Trailhead Center offers access points to even more trails of varying difficulties.

Whirlpool Aero Car Whirlpool Aero Car

Since 1916, the Whirlpool Aero Car has sent passengers 3,500 feet across the Niagara Gorge to marvel at the river below. Along the way, riders are treated to bird’s-eye views of the turquoise waters swirling into the Niagara Whirlpool, whitecapped Class VI rapids and jetboats ripping down the river. Although the car crosses the international border four times because of the way the gorge meanders, the ride starts and ends on the Canadian side, and thus, no passport is required to ride. It's one of the best tours in Niagara Falls .

The historic cable car – which is suspended from six sturdy cables – has undergone several upgrades since its 1916 debut, including most recently in 2023, when it was removed from its tracks and sent to Quebec for refurbishment. Today, it's equipped with brand-new mechanical parts, non-slip floor, roof and fresh paint.

Bird Kingdom Bird Kingdom

Inside the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary, pathways wind through a multilevel rainforest teeming with tropical birds in every color of the rainbow.

Interact directly with feathered residents at the attraction's Base Camp, where you'll meet exotic animals and friendly parrots (entry is included in admission; holding a parrot costs CA$10 or about $7). There's also Lorikeet Landing, where colorful little lorikeets may land on visitors’ arms when offered a sip of nectar (entry included in admission; nectar costs CA$5 or about $4). Meanwhile, the Night Jungle, set to resemble ancient ruins, is the place to catch a glimpse of nocturnal animals like bats, owls and amphibians. The exhibit ecosystem is also home to lush plants, flowers and trees from around the world, which offer nesting spots for the birds and beautiful surroundings to wander.

Niagara Falls American-Side Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride

(7072 reviews)

from $ 139.95

All Attractions Niagara Falls American Tour with Boat Much More

All Niagara Falls USA Tour Maid of Mist Boat & So Much More

(85 reviews)

from $ 129.99

Skylon Tower Skylon Tower

Once you've seen the falls from below and behind, consider seeing them from above at the Skylon Tower. Dominating the Ontario skyline, this 775-foot high tower offers particularly breathtaking views of the Horseshoe Falls. You can enjoy the view from either the indoor or the outdoor observation deck and – if you don't mind shelling out a small fortune – you can also revel in the landscape from the tower's revolving restaurant. To reach the top of the tower, you'll board a glass-enclosed elevator that takes just 52 seconds to ascend.

Many recent visitors recommend timing your stop at the tower at night to catch a bird's-eye glimpse when the falls are illuminated. A few also said it was worth it to buy the ticket package that allows for both a day entry and a night entry to the tower. If you're hoping to eat at the tower, either at the buffet or in the formal dining room, consider going early (between 4:30 and 5 p.m.) to take advantage of "early bird" pricing.

Inniskillin Wines Inniskillin Wines free

Aside from the falls themselves, the Niagara Falls region is known for one other thing: wine. If you have the time, take a drive north along Ontario's scenic Niagara Parkway to Inniskillin Wines and vineyards throughout in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This winery is Canada’s first estate winery and known for its ice wine, which is made from grapes that are left to freeze on the vine over the winter. Once temperatures drop to minus 8 degrees Celsius (about 18 degrees Fahrenheit), the grapes are then collected and allowed to thaw, a process that helps intensify their flavor.

Recent visitors recommended making a stop here, even if you're not interested in tasting the region's famous ice wine. Many noted welcoming and knowledgeable tour and tasting guides, along with tasty food options.

Things to Do in Niagara Falls FAQs

Explore more of niagara falls.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Niagara Falls, Canada sits on the edge of the Niagara Gorge, at the site of Niagara Falls, one of Canada's biggest attractions. Its strategic location has made it one of the most popular places to visit in Canada .

The city itself is fun and quirky, with a carnival-like atmosphere. It has a strong appeal for families who come to enjoy the falls, as well as the various things to do, including rides, tours, and action-packed amusements. A plentiful assortment of hotels and resorts adds to the vacation experience.

It also draws couples who come here for romantic getaways, to sit by a fire, relax over a fine meal, soak in the views of the falls, and stop by nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Niagara Falls' proximity to Canada's largest city makes it easy to access. It's one of the most popular day trips from Toronto , but it's better to spend the night and see the falls in the evening, when they're lit up in different colors. Visitors have several choices when it comes to getting from Toronto to Niagara Falls .

Three bridges link the city of Niagara Falls with its American counterpart, all of them with fine views into the gorge that divides the two countries.

Plan your trip and sightseeing in advance with our list of the top attractions in Niagara Falls.

1. Niagara Falls

2. journey behind the falls, 3. skylon tower, 4. niagara city cruises, 5. niagara skywheel, 6. whirlpool aero car, 7. clifton hill, 8. niagara power station, 9. whitewater walk, 10. niagara parkway, 11. butterfly conservatory, 12. niagara botanical gardens, 13. whirlpool jet boat tours, 14. bird kingdom, 15. niagara speedway, 16. niagara-on-the-lake, where to stay in niagara falls for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to niagara falls, canada, map of tourist attractions in niagara falls, canada, niagara falls, canada - climate chart.

Niagara Falls are some of the largest, most beautiful, and most famous waterfalls in the world. They are also some of the most easily accessible. You can walk up and stand on the very edge of the falls, separated only by a railing, without even having to pay a fee.

If you want to see them from a little different perspective, you can take a boat trip to the base of the falls, or go behind the falls and see the water pouring over from above.

The falls consist of three parts: The most spectacular section is the concave Horseshoe Falls , running 640 meters across from the Canadian shore to the American shore. The American Falls , about 330 meters across, is on the New York side, but the best views are from the Canadian side. A small third section, known as Bridal Veil Falls , is located between these two.

On the Canadian side of the falls, a walkway stretches from above the falls all the way along the edge of the gorge, providing spectacular views. At night, the falls are lit up in different colors.

The main viewing area is on the edge of Horseshoe Falls, behind which is the Table Rock Welcome Centre . This building has a restaurant overlooking the falls and is also where you'll find shops and an information and ticket booth where you can purchase tickets to the various attractions and tours.

Below the falls, the Niagara River flows through the deep walls of the gorge, between 80 meters and 300 meters across, forming the Whirlpool Rapids as the gorge narrows. The waters eventually flow into Lake Ontario.

Journey Behind the Falls offers a close-up view of the falls from the base of Horseshoe Falls. From the Table Rock Welcome Centre, an elevator takes you down 45 meters to tunnels with viewing portals behind the falls and an observation deck near the lower edge of the falls.

From here, you can look up at the wall of water coming over Horseshoe Falls and feel the rush of mist on your face. This view offers a unique perspective and a completely different experience than viewing the falls from above.

Official site: https://www.niagaraparks.com/visit/attractions/journey-behind-the-falls/

At a height of more than 235 meters above the falls, the Skylon Tower offers a spectacular bird's eye view of Niagara Falls, the Niagara Escarpment, and the city.

The tower features an indoor/outdoor observation area and two restaurants. The Revolving Dining Room is an upscale revolving restaurant, while the Summit Suite Buffet is a more mid-range family oriented establishment.

Access to the observation decks is free if you are dining at the tower.

Official site: http://www.skylon.com/

Niagara City Cruises, by Hornblower, offer close-up tours to the base of all three falls in 700-passenger catamaran boats. Cruises run all day and into the evening, when the falls are lit. Cruises take about 20 minutes and allow you to get up close to the thundering torrent of water.

This is a wet experience, and rain jackets are provided. Since the Maid of the Mist stopped operating out of Canada, this is the only boat tour option from the Canadian side that takes visitors to the base of the falls.

You'll find the departure docks near where Clifton Hill meets the Niagara Parkway.

Official site: http://www.niagaracruises.com/

One of the newest attractions at Niagara Falls is the Niagara Skywheel, one of the largest observation wheels in Canada , standing 175 feet tall. You'll be amazed at the views out over the roaring falls and the surrounding countryside. If the day is clear, you'll be able to see the skyscrapers of Toronto out across Lake Ontario.

Climate controlled gondolas means it's open year-round, and rides last between eight and 12 minutes. You can take these day or night. At night, you can see the city lights as well as Niagara Falls illuminated in various colors.

Official site: https://www.cliftonhill.com/attractions/niagara-skywheel

The Whirlpool Aero Car is an antique cable car in continuous operation since 1916 suspended above the roiling waters of the Whirlpool Rapids . Climb aboard and take a 10-minute trip over this portion of the Niagara River for a unique view of the powerful currents swirling around in a massive whirlpool a stunning 240 feet below. Don't be fooled by the website's claim that the cable car soars 3,500 feet above the river below – that's the distance the car travels, not the vertical height.

The Niagara Aero Car travels approximately one kilometer from one side of the gorge to the other and can hold 35 standing people per trip. You'll actually pass into the United States on this trip, but because you don't actually land, no passport is required.

Official site: https://www.niagaraparks.com/visit/attractions/whirlpool-aero-car/

Part of the attraction of the town of Niagara Falls is the festive atmosphere. A walk down Clifton Hill, also known as Niagara's Street of Fun, will take you past the Niagara Skywheel, the Niagara Speedway, restaurants, and family-oriented attractions.

Along here, you'll find shops selling ice-cream, cotton candy, fudge, and other treats. This area is just up the street from the falls. Even if you don't choose to spend much time here, it's worth a look just for the display of tacky and cheesy displays.

Over the years, people have walked or driven along the Niagara Parkway past the falls and have seen a beautiful old building seemingly abandoned. It's been a long time coming, but now the former power station dating from 1905 has been completely renovated and brought back to life.

It's now a spectacular building, bright and airy and full of antique equipment, and is fast becoming one of Niagara Falls' top attractions. Self-guided and guided tours are available, and anyone even with the slightest passing interest on how electricity is produced is sure to enjoy their visit.

Plans are in place to allow you to go down deep within the earth to the former spillway tunnels and walk to where they empty into the Niagara River.

When you visit Niagara Falls, all the views of the river, with the exception of the area above the falls, is down into the deep gorge. If you want to get within mere meters of the roaring river as it churns along, give the Whitewater Walk a try.

Located just north of the Whirlpool Bridge, the Whitewater Walk is accessed via an elevator that descends 70 meters straight down through the earth to the river's edge. As you emerge, you'll be amazed by the sheer power of the Class 6 rapids rolling by at an incredible 48 kilometers per hour.

The Whitewater Walk leaves from here; just follow the 300-meter-long boardwalk to find the best photo spots to capture the green water as it roils and boils by you.

The Niagara Parkway is a scenic drive running from Niagara-on-the-Lake , past Niagara Falls to Fort Erie, following the gorge. The road, lined by parks and green space, has many interesting sights along the way where visitors can stop.

Some of the most popular features along the parkway are the Floral Clock , Whirlpool Rapids , and the Butterfly Conservatory . Another popular (and new) attraction located just a bit past the falls is the Niagara Power Station.

A paved pathway for walking and biking runs alongside the Niagara Parkway.

The Butterfly Conservatory, along the Niagara Parkway, is home to 2,000 free-flying butterflies. The glass-enclosed conservatory with waterfalls and tropical plants features more than 40 different species of butterflies and is the largest of its kind in North America.

Inside you'll find one of the most spectacular species: the Blue Morphos. These iridescent blue giant butterflies almost glow in the light. If you are lucky, one may land on you and pose for a photo!

This attraction is open year round making it a particularly popular place to visit during the winter months when the outside gardens are not in bloom.

Official site: https://www.niagaraparks.com/visit/attractions/butterfly-conservatory/

The Niagara Falls Park service does an incredible job of making the lawns and gardens near the falls look spectacular throughout the spring, summer, and fall. You may wonder where all these spectacular plants originate from, and the answer is the Niagara Botanical Gardens.

Spread out over an extensive area, these wide-open gardens are worth a visit if you have a green thumb, love photography, or are visiting the Butterfly Conservatory located on the same property (admission is free!). One of the highlights of a stop is the incredible rose garden. Flowering throughout the warm months of the year, the smells and sights of 2,400 roses are something to behold.

The Botanical Gardens are also an excellent place to spot wildlife. Deer are frequent visitors as are squirrels, bunnies, and hummingbirds.

Interested on taking a thrilling jet boat ride through class 5 whitewater rapids towards Niagara Falls? Well then head to Niagara on the Lake and Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours. These giant super-powered jet boats race up the Niagara River on a thrill ride you won't soon forget. Choose the "wet" tour, where you'll get completely soaked as the boats crash through huge waves, or the "dry" tour, where you are comfortably enclosed in a glass dome.

At one point, the boat drivers will make the boat spin 360 degrees at high speed, a true stomach-turning experience!

During the quieter parts of the tour, the guides share educational information on the geology and history of the area.

Address: 61 Melville Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake

If you love birds, this is the place to come, and it's also a great indoor activity if you are visiting in winter. Bird Kingdom is the largest free-flying indoor aviary in the world .

Colorful tropical birds zoom past and squawk from the trees as you walk along the paths. One of the highlights of a visit is acting as a human feeding station at the Lorikeet Landing. Have the camera ready to snap photos of your favorite friend covered in colorful birds.

Another highlight is the Night Jungle. Here you'll be able to walk through a darkened area and see the denizens of the night including owls, bats, and other rarely seen birds.

Official site: https://www.birdkingdom.ca/

At the top of Clifton Hill, the Niagara Speedway is a fun family attraction, and it offers a new twist on go-kart racing. Unlike traditional flat courses, the track here is elevated in a roller coaster style that allows you to drive up a spiral ramp. This track is the largest of its kind in North America .

Single and double seater go-karts are available, making this a fun family thing to do in Niagara Falls. The go-karts are powered by a Honda engine and have a surprisingly fast top speed of 32 kilometers per hour. Each race lasts about five minutes.

Official site: https://www.cliftonhill.com/attractions/niagara-speedway

The quaint little town of Niagara-on-the-Lake sits on the shores of Lake Ontario just a 20-minute drive from Niagara Falls along the Niagara Parkway . The town has a mid 19th-century appearance owing largely to its history.

During the war of 1812, part of the town was razed and as a result, much of the original architecture was built in the years following the war. Building by-laws have since ensured that newer architecture is built in similar style, resulting in this charming town where horse-drawn carriages pulling tourists through the streets blend beautifully with the old-style buildings.

Some tours of Niagara Falls , particularly those from Toronto, include stops in Niagara-on-the-Lake, where visitors can wander through the shops or enjoy a meal. The area is particularly lovely in fall when the leaves are changing colors. If you are looking for a romantic getaway, this is a great place to stay.

While it may seem obvious, the best place to stay in Niagara Falls is as close to the falls as possible, preferably within walking distance. This will also put you in the vicinity of Clifton Hill, the main tourist area, where there are many restaurants and other attractions. Below are some highly-rated hotels in good locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Offering spectacular views of the Horseshoe Falls, the Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa has well-appointed rooms and a highly regarded steakhouse.
• The Sheraton on the Falls also offers amazing views and, with an indoor waterpark, is a very good option for families. This hotel lies in the heart of the attractions of Clifton Hills and within walking distance to the falls themselves.
• The well-positioned Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview is a large property with falls-view rooms and suites, and the WEGO shuttle to local attractions stops right in front of the hotel.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Radisson Hotel & Suites offers oversized rooms and suites with views of the falls through large windows, as well as two restaurants and an indoor pool.
• A 10-minute walk from Clifton Hill and 20 minutes from the falls is the recently renovated and centrally located Courtyard Niagara Falls . This hotel has both an indoor and outdoor pool.
• Two blocks from the falls, the DoubleTree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton features an indoor saltwater pool, rooms with mini refrigerators, and some rooms looking out to the American Falls.
• The Country Inn & Suites is a short walk from Clifton Hill and a longer walk to the falls. This hotel features standard rooms, suites with separate living areas, an indoor pool, and a complimentary hot buffet breakfast.

Budget Hotels:

• A 10-minute drive from Niagara Falls is the Niagara Parkway Court , with clean and comfortable rooms.

Joining an organized tour is a great way to make sure you see all the highlights of this tourist-friendly town and learn interesting details about them without the hassle of finding your way around. Best of all, many tours include admission to key attractions and convenient pickup and drop-off at your hotel. Below are some fun tour options that guarantee the lowest price:

• Sightseeing Tours: If you only have half a day to sightsee, the Best of Niagara Falls Tour from Niagara Falls, Ontario is a convenient and great-value option, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel. This five-hour tour includes a professional guide as well as admission to the Skylon Tower, Hornblower cruise, and Journey Behind the Falls, so you can see the falls from a variety of angles. To ensure a more personalized experience, the tour is limited to six people.
• Fly over the Falls: For a bird's eye view of the falls, consider the Niagara Falls Grand Helicopter Tour . Hover over this thundering natural wonder on a 20-minute scenic helicopter flight, while the experienced pilot shares fascinating information about the falls and nearby historic landmarks. A minimum of two people are required for this tour.

More on Canada

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Niagara Falls – What to Do + MAP

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | Niagara Falls (US) | The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Niagara Falls – What to Do + MAP

When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the  best travel insurance companies . Y ou can get a  5% discount   on Heymondo , the only insurance that pays medical bills upfront for you, HERE!

Visiting Niagara Falls  is something you must do at least once in your life. Since Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother celebrated his honeymoon here more than 200 years ago, the place has been crowded with tourists. Even after all these years, this is one of the most impressive places on earth and something you must see with your own eyes.

If it’s your first time  going to Niagara Falls , be aware that the falls are on the Niagara River between Ontario, Canada, and New York state. The American side consists of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, while the Canadian side boasts the 164-foot Horseshoe Falls.

The ultimate guide to visiting Niagara Falls

Besides being beautiful, Niagara Falls also has an interesting history, as it was the first state park in the United States. In 1895, the world’s first large hydroelectric power station opened here, and just a year later the famous engineer Nikola Tesla unveiled his direct current (DC) system, changing the way Buffalo, NY lit up at night.

If you are thinking of traveling here, this article will include information about  what to do in Niagara Falls  so you can make the most of your visit.

How to visit Niagara Falls – Plan your Niagara Falls vacation

First, you should know that you can  visit Niagara Falls  from the United States or Canada . We visited them from both sides, and if you have time, I highly recommend doing it this way.

On the American side of Niagara Falls , you can enjoy beautiful natural areas, while the Canadian side of Niagara Falls has the best views of the most famous waterfall in North America.

If you don’t have time, don’t worry, because there are awesome attractions on each side that you can add to your  Niagara Falls itinerary .

In this Niagara Falls guide you’ll find:

Where is Niagara Falls?

• Which side of Niagara Falls is better?
• Niagara Falls map
• Things to do in Niagara Falls

Tours to Niagara Falls

Best niagara falls hotels.

Moreover, at the end of the article, you will find the most frequently asked questions related to a Niagara Falls vacation .

If you’re not sure  where Niagara Falls is located , it’s within the course of the Niagara River, specifically between the province of Ontario, Canada, and New York State. From the United States, the closest city to Niagara Falls is Buffalo, NY, about 20 miles away. To go to Niagara Falls from New York City , you will have to travel about 400 miles, which is about a 7-hour drive. But it’s completely worth it since it’s one of the best things to do in New York State .

Most people who take a  trip to Niagara Falls, Canada  do so from Toronto, which is a little over 90 miles away. That said, the cities of Hamilton and Mississauga are a bit closer, so they’re two other options .

Which side of Niagara Falls is better? – American side vs. Canadian side

If you’re short on time and can only visit one side of the falls, don’t worry. There are plenty of  things to do in Niagara Falls  on both the American and Canadian sides.

There is a huge push for  tourism in Niagara Falls , so below I’m including the highlights for each side. If you can, I recommend booking  this full-day tour , which goes to the most popular attractions in Niagara Falls, New York, and Ontario. Just remember to bring your passport and/or visa to cross the border.

Niagara Falls Canadian side

If you’re interested in sightseeing, a  Niagara Falls tour of the Canadian side  is your best choice. Not only are most of the tourist attractions there, but the views of the falls are better.

There are many  unique things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada , which is why many tourists say it resembles an amusement park. The mix of entertainment venues and leisurely outdoor spaces is a hit with visitors.

In Ontario, you can stand directly in front of the falls, and there are several hotels and casinos nearby. While these large accommodations are a bit imposing on the natural environment, the waterfalls provide a great backdrop while you’re staying overnight.

Niagara Falls U.S. side

For those who want more outdoor recreation and nature activities, a trip to  Niagara Falls, USA  won’t disappoint.

While the views of the falls aren’t as spectacular on the American side, there are still plenty of things to do around this beautiful natural environment.

For example, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the country, so it’s worth visiting. I’ll share more  Niagara Falls tips  later, but keep in mind that the New York side offers more opportunities to connect with nature and get some fresh air away from the crowds .

Niagara Falls map – your best guide for visiting Niagara Falls

To help you  plan your trip to Niagara Falls , you’ll want a map of the attractions on each side. This  map of Niagara Falls will help you quickly locate the most popular activities and landmarks in Ontario and New York.

Niagara Falls map – Your best guide for visiting Niagara Falls

As you can see on the map, if you’re  visiting Niagara Falls  for entertainment and tourist attractions, the Canadian side is best, while the U.S. side is much more natural .

Things to do and places to visit in Niagara Falls

If you’re still not sure where to  go in Niagara Falls , check out these main attractions in Canada and the United States.

Things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada

We also have more  Niagara Falls tips  in our guide to  visiting Niagara Falls, Canada . To make the most of our trip, we booked   this tour , which includes a heli-tour, Voyage to the Falls boat ride, a meal at Skylon Tower, and a few other activities. It was the best way to see the falls as a first-time visitor, so I highly recommend it.

Voyage to the Falls, the official Niagara Falls boat tour on the Canadian side

A  Niagara Falls boat tour  is one of the best ways to see the majesty of the falls. If you’re on the Canadian side, Voyage to the Falls is the best attraction, and you can get your ticket  here .

This tour gets you as close to the Horseshoe Falls as possible, giving you a one-of-a-kind view of the rushing waters. The boat goes through the Niagara Gorge and passes the American and Bridal Veil Falls before inching closer to the Horseshoe Falls.

The ride will leave you speechless, and you can either stay inside the cabin or put on a poncho and go out to the deck. If you’re interested in Voyage to the Falls and other attractions on the Canadian side, I recommend booking the  full-day tour  I mentioned earlier.

Journey Behind the Falls, the best way to get close to Niagara Falls

Journey Behind the Falls  is one of the top Niagara Falls tourist attractions. As the name suggests, it takes you just behind the Horseshoe Falls, offering one of the  best ways to see Niagara Fall s up close.

You’ll enter at the Table Rock Center next to the falls, then take an elevator 130 feet down to the underground tunnels. This is one of the most striking experiences that you can’t replicate anywhere else, so be sure to  book your ticket  in advance.

Have dinner at the Skylon Tower, the best thing to do at Niagara Falls

While you’re on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, be sure to visit Skylon Tower .

This  Niagara Falls observation tower  is nearly 520 feet tall, so it offers the best panoramic perspective of the waterfalls. Even the elevators, locally known as “Yellow bugs,” are fully paned in glass so you get stellar views.

If you are going to visit the Skylon tower you have two options:  reserve your ticket  to the 360° viewpoint, or dine at the Tower’s Revolving Dining Room or Summit Suite Buffet. Both restaurants have a great menu; we ate at the buffet and would go again, for sure.

We had dinner as part of this  combo tour , which also included the Hornblower cruise, Journey Behind the Falls, and a helicopter ride.

Zipline to the Falls, a fun thing to do at Niagara Falls

Soaring over the water on a zipline is one of the  top things to do at Niagara Falls , and an experience you won’t ever forget.

The Niagara Falls zipline travels almost 2,200 feet across the Niagara Gorge to the base of the Horseshoe Falls. While it can seem terrifying and not the best for people who suffer from vertigo, it’s completely safe and even has an automatic braking system.

You can take photos from the observation platform and even fly down the zipline at the same time as your friends. Just be sure to  book in advance  so you’re sure you can experience this activity when you visit!

Niagara Falls Helicopter Tour, the best way to visit Niagara Falls

For another aerial perspective, consider a  Niagara Falls helicopter tour .  This 12-minute flight  soars over the Niagara Whirlpool and the Rainbow Bridge, which connects the Canadian and American sides. You’ll also be able to see Queen Victoria Park, Skylon Tower, and all of Toronto from a birds-eye view.

A helicopter ride is one of the top activities that I recommend, and you can also embark on this adventure  from the American side . Personally, we went with the  combo tour  that also included a boat ride and dinner at Skylon Tower.

Enjoy the views from the Niagara SkyWheel

A trip to Niagara Falls, Ontario is not complete without a ride on the  SkyWheel . At nearly 165 feet tall, it’s the largest observation wheel in Canada. It’s in the nearby entertainment district of Clifton Hill and boasts amazing views of the falls and beyond.

A ride on the Skywheel lasts about 10 minutes, and the cabins are fully enclosed and climate-controlled, so you can ride comfortably all year round. If you’re wondering  where to view Niagara Falls at night , the Skywheel is the top choice.

It’s also a popular place to see the famous Niagara Falls fireworks, so I recommend  booking a ticket  in advance, especially if you want to ride at a specific date or time.

Things to do in Niagara Falls, NY

If you want to  visit Niagara Falls , NY, there are a few points of interest you shouldn’t miss. During our trip, we opted for  this tour  because it included all the iconic spots in just a few hours. We also have a guide to   visiting Niagara Falls, USA   that you can check out.

Terrapin Point at Goat Island, the best place to see the Horseshoe Falls

One of my to p Niagara Falls tips  is to get off the beaten path and check out  Terrapin Point Lookout on Goat Island . Since the lookout is on the western end of the island, you’ll get awesome views of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls and Niagara Gorge.

Goat Island is on the Niagara River, so you have to cross a bridge to get there. While you’re there, spend some time on the walking trails or check out the Cave of the Winds, another popular place for  tourism in Niagara Falls , which I’ll mention later.

Maid of the Mist, the official Niagara Falls boat tour on the American side

One of the best ways to experience  Niagara Falls, USA  is by taking a boat tour. The American tour is called the  Maid of the Mist  boat ride and is one of the most popular attractions on this side of the falls.

You’ll travel along the Niagara Gorge and make your way out into the Canadian waters briefly to get a spectacular view of the waterfalls before returning to the  Niagara Falls U.S. side .

The boats depart every 15 minutes, and the trip takes about 20 minutes. I suggest reserving a spot in advance or booking  this tour , which also includes access to the Cave of the Winds.

Cave of the Winds, the best thing to do on Niagara Falls’ U.S. side

The  Cave of the Winds  is another popular  Niagara Falls U.S. attraction . It’s a series of platforms that lead to the base of the Bridal Veil Falls, behind which you can see a natural cave that was discovered in the 1830s.

As you traverse the wooden bridges and stairs, you’ll make your way across the Niagara Gorge. Wear shoes with good traction and keep your poncho handy because you will get wet. The conditions as you approach the falls are similar to those of a hurricane, and the observation platform is aptly named Hurricane Deck.

Before descending 165 feet to the wet and windy platforms, you can explore The World Changed Here Pavilion, a multimedia exhibition that explains the history of Niagara Falls. We enjoyed this attraction and did it as part of this  half-day tour .

American Falls, one of the best places to visit in Niagara Falls

While the Horseshoe Falls in Canada are the most famous, the Bridal Veil Falls and American Falls are also very beautiful.

The  American Falls  are nearly 100 feet tall and are quite an impressive sight from the  U.S. side of Niagara Falls . The best place to see them is from the Prospect Point viewing area. You should also check out the view from Luna Island since it’s between the American and Bridal Veil Falls. The island isn’t that big or crowded, so it’s a unique place to see the U.S. waterfalls.

Old Fort Niagara, a must-see on Niagara Falls’ U.S. side

Old Fort Niagara  is another interesting place to visit on the U.S. side. It’s located in Youngstown, where the Niagara River flows into Lake Ontario. It’s about a 20-minute drive to get there, or you could book  this tour , which includes an optional Maid of the Mist ride.

The fort is a colonial fortification built by the French Empire in 1726. Along with the historic building, there is also a visitor center that functions as a museum. Everything is contained within Fort Niagara State Park, which supports  tourism in Niagara Falls . If you’re looking for some more natural sightseeing, this area is great, as there are several nearby hiking trails.

The best time to visit Niagara Falls

You might be wondering  when the best time is to go to Niagara Falls , but the truth is that this place is beautiful any time of the year. Depending on what you want to do and which attractions you want to see, one season may be better than another.

For example, all the tourist attractions are open in the summer, but it’s also the most crowded time to visit and it can get pretty hot. You’ll have to book your accommodation and tour tickets months in advance, and even then, it’ll be quite expensive.

If you decide to visit in the spring, you’ll be able to see some of the tourist attractions as well as get a cheaper price for a hotel. While it’s less crowded this time of year, the weather is unpredictable. We visited in May and were lucky, but you never know.

Fall is the  best time to go to Niagara Falls  if you’re more interested in the natural surroundings. The autumn colors and foliage are gorgeous, the weather is nice, and there aren’t many tourists.

Finally, you might not think that a winter trip to Niagara Falls is a good idea since most of the attractions are closed. However, when it’s cold and the falls freeze over, it makes for one of the most extraordinary sights, and it’s something we hope to see for ourselves soon!

How to get to Niagara Falls – parking at Niagara Falls

If you’re not sure  how to visit Niagara Falls , the easiest way is by car. Most people who  travel to Niagara Falls  in Canada arrive from Toronto, which is about 90 miles away. That said, the cities of Hamilton and Mississauga are closer, so those are two other options.

If you’re wondering  how far Niagara Falls is from New York City , it’s about a 7-hour drive. Those who visit the American side usually come from Buffalo , which is just 20 miles away from the falls. That isn’t to say that you can’t take advantage of a trip to NYC by also visiting Niagara Falls. Just be aware that it’s a very long drive and it may be better to book a tour. We’ll list some options below.

You can get a rental car for your trip or go in your own vehicle, but you’ll run into the problem that parking isn’t free at Niagara Falls. On both the American and Canadian sides, you must pay for parking, unless your accommodation has a free parking lot. Considering this, it might be easier to book a tour that includes transportation or hotel pick-up and drop-off .

If you don’t have your own car or don’t feel like driving, you can get to Niagara Falls from Toronto, New York, and Buffalo by booking a tour that includes transportation. Here are the best options :

Niagara Falls from Toronto

There are two  Niagara Falls tours from Toronto  that I recommend.

If you want to go straight to the falls, I recommend  this tour , which goes to the most iconic attractions like Skylon Tower, Niagara Parkway, and the Niagara Whirlpool. Along with incredible views of the falls, you’ll also get a wine tasting.

Another option is  this night tour  with a boat cruise. In addition to seeing the falls up close, you’ll experience Niagara Falls’ magical evening lighting. The tour also includes a few tourist attractions and a wine tasting, so it’s the perfect choice if you don’t mind returning to Toronto after dark.

Niagara Falls from New York City

There are several great  Niagara Falls tours from New York City , depending on how much time you have.

My first choice is this  one-day bus tour   with admission to the Maid of the Mist and a few other attractions.

For those who have more time, I recommend  this two-day tour . Along with a ride on the Maid of the Mist and other interesting attractions, on your way to Niagara Falls you will stop at Watkins Glen State Park. This package also includes a nighttime viewing of the falls and an overnight stay at a hotel.

Finally, you might be interested in   this three-day tour , which includes a visit to Niagara Falls and several Toronto attractions.

Niagara Falls from Buffalo

Lastly, if you’re looking for a  bus to Niagara Falls from Buffalo , NY,  this  is the best option. Unlike the tours from Toronto and NYC, this booking is for transportation only, so you’re free to visit the falls and attractions that interest you.

I suggest spending at least one night in Niagara Falls so you can enjoy the beautiful lighting and fireworks. Seeing the falls in the evening is a totally different experience that you shouldn’t miss. If you’re looking for  hotels in Niagara Falls , here are the top recommendations.

Hotels in Canada at Niagara Falls

We stayed overnight  at a Niagara Falls hotel in Canada , the  Sheraton on the Falls , and the views from our hotel room were incredible. As this is one of the top accommodations in Niagara Falls, I suggest booking your room in advance.

Here’s more information on the Sheraton and other top  hotels on Niagara Falls’ Canadian side :

Sheraton on the Falls

I have to start with the  Sheraton on the Falls  because it really blew us away. The rooms are great and some of them offer spectacular views of the waterfalls. While these particular rooms are a bit more expensive, it was worth it to us to get stunning views from the comfort of our bed.

Sheraton on the Falls, one of the best hotels in Niagara Falls, Canada

Also, the hotel is home to the  Fallsview Restaurant , which serves buffet and a la carte meals. The accommodation’s facilities also include shops, a spa, and a Starbucks. Plus, the hotel connects to the  Niagara Casino and Fallsview Indoor Water Park , so on top of a great location, you’ll have all the amenities you want.

We loved staying here and think it’s one of the most beautiful hotels on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview

If you’re looking for luxury, the  Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview  is a perfect choice. The accommodation is just 300 feet from the falls, so it offers a convenient location and unbeatable views.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview, another hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada

The hotel also boasts awesome amenities like a breakfast buffet and complimentary drinks and snacks. Besides the hotel rooms, the facilities include a couple of restaurants (TGI Fridays and Keg Steakhouse), a Starbucks, an indoor pool, and a gym.

From the hotel, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the Skylon Observation Tower, so this is one of the best places to stay if you want to be close to the action.

The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls

The  Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls  is aptly named, as it provides wonderful views of the Canadian falls. The hotel has an observation room where you can enjoy incredible views without the crowds.

The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls, a hotel overlooking Niagara Falls, Canada

It’s next to the  Falls Incline Railway , which connects to  Table Rock  and  Journey Behind the Falls . Along with its nice location, this accommodation has rooms with waterfall views, although they cost a bit more.

That said, if you stay here, you can take advantage of some great amenities, such as a living room with a fireplace, an indoor pool, a hot tub, a sauna, and a fitness center. There is also an Applebee’s on the premises.

Tower Hotel at Fallsview

The  Tower Hotel at Fallsview  is another beautiful accommodation in Niagara Falls, Canada. Along with comfortable rooms, the hotel also has a decent restaurant, so it’s quite a bargain for the price.

Tower Hotel at Fallsview, fine lodging in Niagara Falls, Ontario

If you’re not sure  where to go in Niagara Falls, Ontario  for more quiet lodging, this hotel is the best choice. You’ll get the rest you want, and you won’t have to pay too much.

Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites

The  Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites  is another top hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada, that I recommend. It’s centrally located so you’ll have easy access to the area’s attractions and restaurants. Some of the rooms have views of the falls, too.

Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites, another good hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada

This hotel also connects to the Fallsview Casino, so it’s a great place to stay if you plan on visiting the casino in the evening.

Hotels in Niagara Falls, NY

We also stayed at a  Niagara Falls hotel  in New York. which was nice because we arrived at night. We spent a restful night in our hotel room and got up early in the morning so we could go straight to the attractions.

Our room was at the  Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino , and although the views weren’t as impressive as the Canadian hotel, if you ask for a room on a high floor, you’ll get beautiful views of the falls. You can even see the Niagara Falls fireworks without leaving your room.

Here’s more information about the Seneca resort and other top  hotels on Niagara Falls’ American side :

Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino

The   Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino  is one of the best hotels to stay in while visiting New York’s Niagara Falls. The resort includes a casino, fitness center, sauna, massage services, a hot tub, an indoor pool, a cafeteria, and several restaurants. Our room was beautiful and immaculate. It’s all-around one of the best hotels on the American side of Niagara Falls.

Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, one of the best hotels in Niagara Falls, NY

Best of all, it only took us 20 minutes to walk to Terrapin Point, one of the top  places to visit near Niagara Falls, USA . If you stay at this hotel, I suggest requesting a room on an upper floor. While you can’t see the falls directly from the hotel, you’ll get beautiful views. Plus, you can see the nighttime fireworks from your room, which is convenient if you don’t feel like going out!

Hyatt Place Niagara Falls

If you’re looking for another good hotel to stay at in Niagara Falls, USA, the   Hyatt Place Niagara Falls  is a great option.

This accommodation is located a little closer to Niagara Falls on the U.S. side, which is very convenient. Also, it is next to Old Falls Street, a small entertainment district where you’ll find great good, shopping, shows, and family activities. If you’re not sure  what to do in Niagara Falls, New York , you can always go there.

Hyatt Place Niagara Falls, a good hotel in Niagara Falls, USA

Hyatt Place Niagara Falls is also close to the Rainbow Bridge, which you can take to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.

While the prices are similar, this hotel isn’t as nice as the Seneca Resort, but it’s still a good option if you need a place to stay overnight.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York

The   DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York   is another accommodation that I recommend on the American side of Niagara Falls. While it’s a bit further away than the previous two hotels, the location is still very good.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York, another hotel in Niagara, New York

The rooms come with nice amenities and they’re very spacious. Some of the rooms offer lovely views of the Niagara River, while others overlook the city. I suggest requesting a riverside room, as it’s a more pleasant view.

Overall, this is a hotel in Niagara Falls, USA, that you can book without hesitation. It’s comfortable, affordable, and clean.

Sheraton Niagara Falls

The   Sheraton Niagara Falls   is one of the hotels in Niagara Falls, New York, that I recommend if you want to be close to the falls without breaking the bank. While it’s not the cheapest option, the price is quite good for the location.

Also, the hotel has a connective corridor to the Seneca Resort, so it’s super easy to go to the casino and enjoy some of the facilities.

Sheraton Niagara Falls, a place to stay in Niagara Falls, USA

The unique thing about the Sheraton hotel is its Reed Beach Club, which has the largest indoor pool in Niagara Falls. So, not only is this a good place to get some rest, but it’s got plenty of amenities to keep you entertained during your stay.

Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls

The last hotel that I recommend is the  Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls , which is a great option for travelers on a budget.

Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls, decent lodging in Niagara Falls, NY

For an inexpensive hotel in Niagara Falls, USA, the location isn’t bad at all. Plus, it’s the best choice if you’re planning on walking over to the Canadian side of the falls since it’s just five minutes from the bridge.

8 Tips to visit Niagara Falls

If you’ve read this far, you should have all the information you need for a  trip to Niagara Falls . Still, I’m including some final tips here so you can make the most of your visit.

1. Plan to visit both sides of Niagara Falls

Instead of wondering  which side of Niagara Falls is better , plan to visit both the American and Canadian falls.

The easiest way to see both sides is by crossing the Rainbow Bridge. That said, you’re still crossing an international border, so you need the proper documentation, such as a passport,  visa or Electronic System for Travel Authorization . You can check below what type of documentation you need.

If you’re renting a car, check first to see if they allow you to enter another country with the rental vehicle.

2. Book at least two days to visit Niagara Falls

Both sides of the falls are interesting and worth visiting, so make sure you book plenty of time. At least, I recommend spending two days visiting Niagara Falls, and that should give you time to check the most important attractions.

3. Stay in a hotel with a view of Niagara Falls

While there are different  Niagara Falls hotels  on the Canadian and American sides, I highly recommend booking a room with a view of the falls. Fortunately, several hotels offer waterfall views, so try to reserve one on a higher floor.

On the Canadian side, the hotels with the best views are the  Sheraton on the Falls ,  Embassy Suites ,  The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls ,  Tower Hotel at Fallsview , and  Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites .

If your  Niagara Falls itinerary  includes an overnight stay on the American side, I recommend the  Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino . Just be sure to reserve a room on a higher floor so you can fully see the falls.

4. Leave everything that can’t get wet in the car/hotel

There are some areas where it’s impossible not to get wet by the  Niagara waterfalls , even if you wear a poncho. That said, don’t let a bit of splash and spray deter you from getting an impressive view of the falls.

One of the best  travel tips for Niagara Falls  is to leave behind anything that could be damaged by water. Either keep it in the car or your hotel room or seal it in a waterproof bag if you’re keeping it on you.

5. Take the helicopter tour of Niagara Falls

A  helicopter tour of Niagara Falls, NY  is an unforgettable experience and the best way to get a good look at the falls. I recommend  this tour  from the American side. While it’s only a 10-minute flight, every second is mesmerizing and you can get a sense of the falls’ magnitude.

If you’re on the  Canadian side of Niagara Falls , I suggest booking  this tour . The 12-minute flight soars over the Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls, and the helicopter is one of the quietest of its kind.

6. Arrive early to find a good spot to watch the Fireworks

The Niagara Falls fireworks are one of the most popular things to see on summer evenings. The show starts every night at 10 pm, although you’ll want to find a spot 30-40 minutes beforehand. If you’re not sure where to view Niagara Falls at night , I suggest the Skywheel (at the Canada side) or Prospect Point (at the American side).

7. Treat yourself to a Niagara Falls buffet dinner

Most Canada  Niagara Falls itineraries  include a visit to Skylon Tower. Besides being a wonderful viewpoint overlooking the falls, the Tower has two excellent restaurants: the Revolving Dining Room and the Summit Suite Buffet.

We ate dinner at the buffet, and we would definitely eat there again. It’s one of the  top things to do at Niagara Falls , so be sure to  book a ticket  to the Tower in advance. Or do what we did and take  this lunch tour  with a helicopter flight and boat cruise.

The Top of the Falls Restaurant is another place where you can eat while enjoying incredible views of the falls. This one is on Goat Island, on the American side.

8. Come back to Niagara Falls in winter

As I mentioned, the  best time to go to Niagara Falls  depends on what you want to do and see here. While the summertime is popular with most tourists, there is something special about visiting in the winter.

There are way fewer tourists, the prices are lower, and the atmosphere is calmer and more peaceful. That said, I don’t recommend a winter trip for your first time in Niagara Falls since most of the attractions are closed.

Is Niagara Falls worth visiting?

If you’re still wondering if a  visit to Niagara Falls  is worth it, I would say, without hesitation, yes!

While the  best time to visit Niagara Falls, NY  is in the summer, this is also when it’s the most crowded. If you’re  planning a trip to Niagara Falls, Canada , budget enough money and days so you can get to everything.

Despite all the planning and calculating involved, this is a place that you must see at least once in your life.

FAQs about visiting Niagara Falls

While our guide to Niagara Falls includes everything you need to know, check these frequently asked questions if you have any other concerns.

Where did Niagara Falls get its name?

The name ‘Niagara Falls’ originates from the Iroquois language of the indigenous peoples of North America. Niagara means “thunder of water” and refers to the thunderous sound that falling water makes.

Where is Niagara Falls located?

Niagara Falls is between Canada and the United States in North America, specifically within the course of the Niagara River.

How tall are the Niagara Falls waterfalls?

There are actually three waterfalls at Niagara Falls: the Horseshoe Falls (164 feet), the American Falls (99 feet), and the Bridal Veil Falls (79 feet).

Where does Niagara Falls’ water come from?

Niagara Falls’ water comes from four of the five great lakes: Erie, Huron, Michigan, and Superior.

Will Niagara Falls run out of water?

No, unless the course of the river changes, Niagara Falls will not run out of water.

When did Niagara Falls stop flowing?

Niagara Falls dried up in 1969 when the United States Corps of Engineers diverted the river that flows into the falls.

How often does Niagara Falls freeze?

It is very difficult for Niagara Falls to freeze completely, although the temperatures have dropped low enough four times for this to happen. During the winter months, you can see blocks of ice and snow on the falls.

Where can I view Niagara Falls at night?

If you want to enjoy Niagara Falls at night, two of the best places are Queen Victoria Park in Canada and Goat Island in the United States.

Now you have all the information you need to start planning your trip to Niagara Falls. If you have any questions, you can leave a comment below, and I will try to help you as quickly as possible. Remember that we also have a specific guide to Niagara Falls in Canada and another about Niagara Falls, New York .

I know that you’ll enjoy your visit to Niagara Falls; just don’t forget your raincoat! Safe travels!

Don't miss a 5% discount on your HeyMondo travel insurance  

and the only one that pays all your medical bills upfront for you!

Ascen Aynat

6 replies on “ The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Niagara Falls – What to Do + MAP ”

Greetings! I’m planning to go to Niagara Falls this summer. How can I obtain a free travel guide? Please let me know. Thanks. God bless! 🙂

Hi Ricky, You can request a free travel guide to the U.S. side of Niagara Falls and the Canadian side of Niagara Falls via this website .

What’ is like in May to visit & west are Covid restrictions if any? Are booster shots & vaccines mandatory? What’s the closest airport to the Canada side Marriott or Hilton at the falls?

Hi Eileen, May is a wonderful time to visit! The weather won’t be as hot and there should be fewer crowds. Niagara Falls is following current COVID restrictions, but proof of vaccination isn’t mandatory. The closest airport is the Niagara Falls International Airport.

Is everything still open like the first week in September? Or should we plan for an August trip? This will be our first trip to Niagara Falls.

Yes, everything will be open the first week of September. Enjoy your visit to Niagara Falls. You’re going to love it for sure!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Niagara Falls, Canada: Planning Your Trip

Niagara Falls, Canada , is home to the Horseshoe Falls, the most powerful waterfall in North America and possibly the best-known in the world. The natural wonder is historically famous as a honeymoon destination—these days more in a campy, maudlin kinda way—but it also attracts a range of visitors, especially families. The tourist zone of the city centers around the Horseshoe Falls (the Canadian waterfall that is named for its bowed shape) and the American Falls, both of which gush into the Niagara Gorge. This waterfall destination may have a touristy reputation, but the surrounding fine hotels and a casino provide a classy backdrop to rest in after you've strolled around the falls or ventured beneath the mist.

It's widely agreed that the Canadian side of the falls, just across the water from Niagara Falls, New York , is more interesting to visit. To make the most of your visit to Niagara Falls, whether you decide to spend a night or two or just stop by on a road trip, you'll want to know all the possible attractions, plus the best places to eat and stay.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Summertime offers the best weather for seeing the falls, but the crowds can be overwhelming. Fall is a great time to see the waterfall surrounded by fall foliage and although you'll need a jacket, it won't be too cold.
• Language : Canada's official languages are English and French, but you'll find that everyone speaks English in Niagara Falls, as it is part of the primarily English-speaking province of Ontario.
• Currency: Because it's located on the border, U.S. dollars will be accepted at most attractions, shops, and restaurants. However, you will get a better value if you pay with Canadian dollars.
• Getting Around: If you are coming from the U.S., it is simple to drive your car over the border, but you'll find that once you get there, it will be easy to walk between attractions. If you don't have a car, you can also use public buses and taxis to get around.
• Travel Tip: If you are crossing the border from the U.S., you will need to show your passport or a passport equivalent .

Things to Do

Niagara Falls caters full-on to tourists by offering up a plethora of splashy attractions that thrill, excite and amaze, such as the famous and longstanding Hornblower Tours , the Whirlpool Aerocar , or IMAX movie theater. Beyond waterfall-related adventures, there are several other ways to stay busy on a trip to Niagara Falls.

• The Niagara region is perfect for bike riding, especially the extensive and picturesque bike path system of the Niagara Parkway and the Niagara wine region, where cyclists can stop for tastings along the way.
• Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake are big golf destinations with many scenic, some waterside, courses like Legends on the Niagara and Grand Niagara Golf Club .
• Niagara Falls has a system of rivers and waterways where you can fish for rainbow trout, brown trout, salmon, lake trout, musky and small-mouth bass. Popular locations in both the upper and lower falls include Fort Niagara State Park and Niagara Reservation .
• Niagara Falls has outlet shopping on both sides of the border. Typically, the American side has Walden Galleria and Fashion Outlets Niagara amongst others, that offer the likes of Ralph Lauren, Guess, Coach, and Pottery Barn at up to 75 percent off regular prices.
• If the timing is right you may be able to partake in annual events like the Niagara Falls Festival of Lights , a light show that includes an illuminated five-kilometer route of displays, fireworks over the Falls, and more. This festival takes place during the holiday season between November and December, but the also popular Niagara Wine Festival usually occurs in January, during the ice wine season .

What to Eat and Drink

Niagara Falls is a tourist town, which means that most restaurants you'll find are overpriced and not very high quality. Chain restaurants are the norm, but if you're a true foodie, you may want to leave downtown and take a trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake, where the selection is more diverse and sophisticated. If it's just a small bite and a drink you're looking for in town, you can grab a pint in a classic Irish pub-like Doc Magilligan's or go for a quick wine tasting at Wine on Third. For lunch, you could also try Griffon Gastropub, which keeps over 50 different kinds of beers on tap.

If you prefer to dine near the water, Casa Mia is a cozy and authentic Italian restaurant that provides complimentary shuttle service to and from many hotels. The Niagara Fallsview Casino has at least a dozen restaurants, from casual to fine dining. Of course, the most romantic thing to do is to find somewhere to enjoy a meal or a few drinks within views of the natural wonder, which is possible to do at Canyon Creek Chophouse , which is part of the casino.

If the wine tasting piques your interest in the wine of this region, you may want to extend your trip to take a tour of Niagara-on-the-Lake . This romantic destination is home to popular wineries and vineyards like Peller Estates Winery and Wayne Gretzky Estates , owned by the famous Canadian hockey player. Hockey and wine fans can come together at this unique winery, which has its own skating rink, plus a whisky bar for when you get tired of wine.

Where to Stay

Niagara Falls has many big-name hotels, such as Doubletree, Sheraton, Courtyard Marriott, Embassy Suites, and more. You'll find many of these hotels offer rooms with views of Horseshoe Falls. When booking your hotel, consider how close to the Falls you want to be and how important it is to be able to see the waterfall from your room. Other hotels are closer to outlet shopping, such as the Outlet Collection in Niagara-on-the Lake, from where you can take a short shuttle to the waterfall.

If romance is the priority, some hotels offer in-suite hot tubs or you could go the non-traditional route with a boutique hotel like the Old Stone Inn or a bed-and-breakfast like Redwood Bed & Breakfast . There are many options , but that just means you'll have more choice when it comes to choosing something right for your budget or travel style. The majority of hotels are concentrated in the center of town, sometimes known as Clifton Hills, but you can find a few more options in the area surrounding Fallsview Boulevard.

For more options of where to stay, check out this diverse list of Niagara Falls hotels .

Getting There

Niagara Falls is about 90 minutes from Toronto and 30 minutes from Buffalo. If you are traveling by plane, you have the choice of flying into Lester B. Pearson (Toronto International Airport) , Toronto Island Airport, Hamilton International Airport , The Greater Buffalo International Airport , or Niagara Falls International Airport. As a popular road trip destination, most people arrive by car, but you could also take a long-haul bus line to Toronto or Buffalo and transfer via public transportation. Go Transit  offers bus and train service from various Ontario cities, like Toronto and Hamilton. 

There are four ways to cross the border from the U.S. into Canada at Niagara Falls. The Lewiston Queenston Bridge is open 24 hours, the Whirlpool Bridge doesn't allow trucks, the Rainbow Bridge has a pedestrian crossing if you want to be able to say you literally walked across the border, or you can take your bike over the Peace Bridge.

Money Saving Tips

• If you plan to visit several attractions, consider buying a pass, such as the Niagara Falls & Great Gorge Adventure Pass , or for those visiting both U.S. and Canadian Niagara Falls attractions, the Niagara Falls Power Pass may be your best buy.
• Although winters are cold in Niagara Falls, travel during the winter months offers plenty of savings when it comes to accommodation and you can enjoy fewer crowds as well.
• When deciding which outlet malls to visit, the exchange rate should factor into deciding which side of the border you decide to shop on. The American side has better deals, but shoppers must consider personal allowances and the possibility of paying duty if shopping in the U.S. and returning to Canada (or vice versa), however, it could be worth shopping on the Canadian side if the exchange rate is in your favor.

The 11 Best Day Trips From Buffalo

A Couple's Guide to Niagara Falls

Canada's 10 Most Famous Cities

The Best Restaurants for Dinner in Niagara Falls

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls

How to Travel From Toronto to Niagara Falls by Train, Bus, and Car

The Best Ways to See Niagara Falls

Iguazu Falls Travel Guide: Planning Your Trip

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Canada

Winter in Niagara Falls: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

How to Travel From Toronto to New York City by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel from New York City to Niagara Falls by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

18 Top Things to Do in Winter in Canada

10 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls

Toronto Pearson International Airport Guide

Niagara Falls Border Crossings

Take Me To Niagara

This is our niagara... discover yours..

Where the scenery becomes the scene and our roots run deep, from our rolling vineyards to the stunning natural wonder of the Niagara Falls . Explore Niagara from the ground up in Niagara’s South Coast ,  St. Catharines , Niagara Benchlands  &  Niagara-on-the-Lake . You’ll find a host of wineries and dining experiences just waiting to be discovered, your way. So, if you think you know Niagara, think again. In fact, we can’t wait to show you what we’re all about.

My Niagara Experiences

Explore Niagara Regions

Niagara Falls

Niagara-on-the-lake, niagara benchlands, st. catharines, south coast.

To us, there is no place like home and no place like our home, Niagara. We put our heart and soul into what we do and all that we offer you, from friendly, family-run restaurants and quaint B&Bs, to bustling businesses and wineries that are generations strong.

From the rush of the Falls to the rolling Niagara Peninsula— one of the most acclaimed grape growing and winemaking regions in Ontario –we take great pride in the beauty of our region and what it offers us, and our warmly welcomed guests, in every season.

We’re serious about the unique bounty our humble roots bare, whether through our award-winning wine, craft brews, spirits or our critically-acclaimed farm-to-table dining options. The Niagara terroir is infused in everything we do. Taste your way through a place that is uniquely your own, that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Our people, history, culture and endless breathtaking landscapes are what inspire us and are sure to inspire you too. This is our Niagara, discover yours.

Niagara by the Numbers

Niagara is Canada’s largest Wine Region, home to 100+ wineries

Niagara is an outdoor playground, featuring over 4.5 Million Acres of outdoor space to explore

The Ultimate Niagara Falls Trip Planning Guide

Love it? Share it!

Niagara Falls can be described as many things. It is a legendary tourist attraction, an awe-inspiring natural wonder, and most notably, a must-see for any bucket list. The falls tend to become any visitor’s favorite destination instantly, and after your trip, we have no doubt it will be one of yours. Here is the ultimate Niagara Falls trip planning guide to help you out!

The majestic (and massive) falls have captured the imagination and attention of thousands, so it’s a no-brainer for any cross-country trip in North America and Canada .

The falls themselves and the surrounding areas genuinely feel like a different world. Epic views, breathtaking sights, and unforgettable attractions make Niagara Falls unique.

Whether you’re looking for a more outdoor and rustic naturist escape on the US side of the falls or an amusement park-style vacation on the Canadian side , Niagara Falls won’t disappoint.

So, shall we plan your ultimate Niagara Falls trip?

Niagara Falls Trip Planning | The Ultimate Guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

A Brief History of Niagara Falls

Before planning any adventure, it’s always important to know as much as possible about your destination. And with history and origin like Niagara Falls, there is a lot to know. 

Here’s a quick crash course on the interesting history of your next dream vacation – Niagara Falls, Canada & US.

It is estimated that roughly 12,000 years ago, at the end of the last Ice Age, during a massive melt-off and the extreme flow of water caused by this, the falls we know today came into existence. 

And since then, the interest and fascination with the falls have only grown. Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother celebrated his honeymoon at the falls about 200 years ago, and Charles Dickens wrote in 1842 how the falls stunned him into silence.

Essential Niagara Falls Trip Info

Planning your trip to Niagara Falls will take some careful consideration. Factors such as the time of year, the forecasted weather patterns, and travel requirements are just some things you need to know. 

Here’s our breakdown of the whens, wheres, and how-tos make visiting Niagara Falls convenient, enjoyable, and most importantly unforgettable.

The Border Crossing at Niagara Falls

Composed of several large waterfalls on the Niagara River, the Niagara Falls span across the eastern coast of the United States and Canada. What makes the falls unique is that they sit right on the border of these two countries.

If you choose to visit both sides, you will be crossing international borders so remember to check your visa requirements as border control is strict.

Now separated by the border between the USA and Canada, the largest of the three, the Horseshoe Falls, is situated on Canadian soil. The other two, the Bridal Veil and American Falls, are on American soil.

With the distinct geographical history and elements of the falls, you can choose to visit them from either country or, even better yet, plan a trip to include both. Visiting the American side of the falls and crossing into Canada if you’re a US national will require no visa. 

If you are a non-US citizen you will need the appropriate Canadian eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization Visa). For all your visa questions, iVisa offers the perfect tool.

When to Visit Niagara Falls

Deciding on the best time to visit the falls and their surrounding areas can make or break your trip. And, as with any other natural attraction, tourist influx during certain months also affects your experience.

A quick online search will tell you that the summer months in the region are ideal for any planned trip. For Niagara Falls, this means June, July, and August. The reasoning behind this is the result of higher day-to-day temperatures.

Although higher temperatures sound great, we are on the fence about this as the mists and breeze from the falls will make you doubt the actual temperatures most of the time.

What the summer months do, however, is cause a massive wave of tourists flogging the falls and the surrounding attractions, towns, and accommodation.

The falls are immensely popular, that’s for sure, but overcrowding everywhere you go can ruin a good vacation.

Winter is from November through to the end of February. Heavy snowfall occurs during December and can continue into January. The falls, in a sense, ‘slow’ down and might even freeze over in the extreme cold. Although this is also a beautiful sight to behold, many attractions at the falls shut down.

We recommend you plan your trip for the shoulder few months. These fall in Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September and October). Temperatures are excellent, usually mid-to-high during the days and comfortable at night.

Prices are reasonable for accommodation, restaurants, entertainment venues, and attractions due to fewer tourists. 

How to Get to Niagara Falls

Traveling to Niagara Falls can be done in a variety of ways. Most visitors opt to fly to one of the airports near the falls. On the Canadian side, this is Toronto Pearson International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from the falls. 

If you choose to fly on the American side, you’ll head for Buffalo Niagara International Airport, which is in Buffalo and about a 30-to-40-minute drive from the falls.

Niagara Falls also has its own train station with commuter and travel lines coming in from Toronto, New York, and several other cities. To make your trip more exciting we recommend spending at least one day in Toronto .

Once at the falls, it’s worth renting a car from the many car rental agencies around to make getting around as easy as possible and for added freedom.

But, with cab services in the area and short walking distances between most things (on either side of the falls), renting a car isn’t a necessity.

Read: Road trips from Toronto Ontario

Exploring Niagara Falls

Any trip to Niagara Falls will be unforgettable, and that’s a fact. Regardless of which side of the falls you visit, you’re in for a good time and a great adventure. Both the Canadian and American sides have their own unique charm and highlights.

The main focal point of your trip is the falls themselves, and while both sides more than meet any expectation you could have, each is distinct and worth a visit. 

Explore from Canada: Niagara Falls Activities

On the Canadian side sits the largest of the falls – the Horseshoe Falls. Being the largest of the three falls, it’s a breathtaking scene, and seeing the falls for the first time will remain in your memory forever. 

Experience Niagara Falls, Canada

The Canadian Niagara Falls experience is quite different than on the US side for several reasons. On this side of the falls, you can expect a more urbanized approach to the adventure, with a number of amusement park-style attractions close to the falls. 

The falls remain the highlight, but what sets the Canadian side apart is its focus on tourism and tourist attractions. This translates into various sightseeing options, different accommodation types, classic streetside cafes, high-end restaurants, and more.

Top Attractions

Treating yourself to some entertaining attractions on the Canadian side of the falls is a must. From Toronto, you can choose from a number of sightseeing tours, unique attractions aimed at family fun, or adventures specifically for you and your significant other.

There are some exceptional options when it comes to attractions. 

Niagara Falls Private Sightseeing Tour

If you’re looking for a scenic and private tour of the area and Niagara Falls, this private sightseeing tour comes top-rated. It boasts the best coverage of the area meaning you’ll get the most out of your trip.

Falls by Day and Night

For a full-day tour of Niagara Falls, Falls by Day and Night stands out amongst others as it is aimed at giving you a proper experience of everything the falls have to offer. It also includes dinner served after the tour ends.

Skylon Lunch Tour

Another great option that pays homage to the setup of the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is the Canada helicopter, boat ride, and Skylon lunch tour. It’s an excellent choice to get in as much of the falls and the city as you can.

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

The top pick for seeing the falls in all their beauty would have to be the royal Canadian tour and Maid of the Mist boat ride. This is a five-hour day trip that takes you up close to the falls for an exceptional view and feel of the falls.

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls Trip Planning Guide

As far as accommodation choices go, the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is a treasure trove of amazing places. The towering heights of the Hilton Niagara Falls or the Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa in Fallsview offer stunning views of the falls in a deluxe hotel setting.

Or, choose a more boutique accommodation option, the Old Stone Inn Boutique Hotel , which is only a few minutes from the falls. The Redwood Bed and Breakfast is also an excellent option for a more intimate experience.  

And if you’re bringing the whole family, we recommend the Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark Resort . It has several family suites and an indoor and outdoor waterpark – perfect for some excitement away from the falls.

Explore from the United States: Niagara Falls State Park

The remaining two falls that makeup Niagara Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the American Falls, sit on the border between New York State and Canada. Although not as large as the Horseshoe falls, these two are both equally as beautiful.

Experience Niagara Falls, USA

Where the Canadian side of Niagara Falls fulfills the need for urban tourism, the side of the falls in the US showcases a totally different perspective.

Visiting Niagara Falls on the US side means you’ll get in touch with nature a bit more than you would on the Canadian side. 

Both falls on the US side sit within Niagara Falls New York State Park, making for a more rustic and outdoorsy experience. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a scenic escape from city life.

The best part is you will get amazing views of the falls and some peace and serenity at the same time.

Just as impressive as the Canadian side of the falls, on the US side, you’ll find some super attractions as well. 

Boat Cruise and Cave of the Winds Tour

To get you close to the falls and for a mesmerizing tour, we recommend the USA boat and cave tour . A trip to the Cave of the Winds, which is a series of platforms that lead right to the base of Bridal Veil Falls, is a must.

Guided Falls Walking Tour

With its layout and terrain, the US side of the falls has the advantage of once-in-a-lifetime walking tours as well, our top pick being the guided walking tour of the falls. 

Maid of the Mist Tour

Another excellent choice is the Maid of the Mist and Adventure Walking Tour , which combines both a memorable boat trip and an exciting walk around the falls.

Wine Tasting & Vineyard Tour

And if you’re looking for a little bit of relaxation and fun, try the half-day winery tour that features wine tastings at the State Parks vineyards and an optional lunch. Including this in your Niagara Falls trip offers the perfect blend of countryside and waterfront fun.

Where to Stay

Now we must admit, although the US side of the falls focuses more on nature, the accommodation on offer covers every potential type you might want. First, for a luxurious and entertaining hotel choice, we recommend the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino.

Other luxurious hotel options include The Hampton Inn Niagara Falls , which offers a variety of room types including suites. Or The Giacomo in downtown Niagara Falls is the perfect blend of luxury and urban accommodation.

Travel Guide Tips for Your Niagara Falls Vacation

Here’s our insider’s list of top Niagara Falls vacation travel tips.

• To get the most out of Niagara Falls, we definitely recommend planning your trip for a couple of days. By doing so, you can visit both sides of the falls, and the convenience of the Rainbow Bridge helps with that. 
• When heading out on any of the tours of the falls, remember one thing, you will get wet. The best tip for this is to instead leave everything that can get damaged by water at your hotel or have a waterproof bag for your items.
• There are many world-class restaurants at the falls featuring cuisine from all around the world. Plan your trip to include some of these.

Final Thoughts – Is Niagara Falls Worth a Visit?

In short, yes, Niagara Falls is without a doubt worth any traveler’s visit. Not only are the falls majestic and out of this world to see in person, but the entire region (on both sides of the border) also stuns and excites.

So if you haven’t already planned your trip to Niagara Falls, best get to it, and with this guide by your side, it will be a trip you’ll never forget.

Pin: Niagara Falls Canada & USA trip planning guide

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

Similar Posts

Things to do in Sylvan Lake Alberta in winter & summer

Sylvan Lake is a cute little town located in western Canada. Known for its beaches, and winter celebrations, along with the replica of the famous Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, you must add this to your list of destinations when visiting Alberta. In this post, we will share the top things to do in Sylvan Lake Alberta…

Perfect One Day in Toronto Itinerary & Guide

Need to make the most of your one day in Toronto? We have the perfect Toronto Itinerary for you, written by ‘once upon a time local, who wants to go back’! Toronto is the shining star of Canada’s urban players. This city is filled with multi-cultural corners to skyrise downtown buildings, tons of work opportunities…

Perfect One day in Charlottetown Itinerary

Home of Anne of Green Gables and the “Birthplace of Canadian Confederation”, this charming island city is filled with opportunities for adventure and exploration. If you are wondering what to do, and see here, you will love our one day in Charlottetown itinerary.  Take a walk along the waterfront, visit historic sites, explore downtown or…

27+ Epic Things to do in Toronto in Winter

Just because the weather outside is frightful, doesn’t mean you can’t have a blast in the city. Toronto is a winter wonderland with plenty of activities to keep you busy. In this guide, we will share all the fun things to do in Toronto in winter along with packing, sightseeing, and travel tips! Now, Toronto…

Jasper to Lake Louise via Icefields Parkway Drive

Icefields Parkway Drive is one of the most scenic drives in the world. The route connects many of the stunning destinations in the Canadian Rockies, making it a bucket list road trip from Jasper to Lake Louise and Banff National Park.  We have driven this route from Banff and Lake Louise to Jasper, and vice…

Bears Hump Waterton Hiking Guide

Bear’s Hump Waterton offers you an uninterrupted view of the town, lakes, and the mountains of the national park. It is one of the must-do activities and should not be missed. In this guide, we will share all about the Bears Hump Trail Hike, with pictures and related information.  Hiking the Bear’s Hump Waterton Lakes…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Thoroughly Travel

Niagara Falls from the Canadian Side: The 9 Best Things to Do

The 9 best things to do in niagara falls on the canadian side, how to get there from toronto, what to eat, where to stay, interactive map and more.

(Updated 2024)

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission on anything purchased through these links at no extra cost to you. Learn more on our Disclaimer page .

Time needed: 1-2 days.

When to go: Spring (May-June) and Fall (September-October) are quieter than peak season in July and August and should offer pleasant weather.

Weather: Temperatures of -5-18°C (23-64°F) in winter and 0-17°C (32-62°F) in summer, with between 7-12 days of rain a month.

Language: English and French.

Currency: Canadian dollar.

Is Niagara Falls in Canada or America?

Niagara Falls actually lies on the border between the province of Ontario in Canada and the state of New York in the United States. While not record breaking, Niagara Falls is famous for the sheer amount of water that thunders down the Niagara River and over its edge. Standing beside this powerhouse of a cascade is awe-inspiring and should be on your travel bucket list.

Is it better to visit Niagara Falls from the Canadian side or the American side?

Many people (including us) believe that Niagara Falls is best experienced from the Canadian side . While both sides offer different angles and viewpoints of the falls, the Canadian side gives you better panoramic views of the cascades. If you have the time, it is possible to visit both sides of the falls in one day. But if you’re wondering how to choose which side of Niagara Falls to see, we’ve listed the pros and cons of each side of Niagara Falls below.

The main Niagara Falls attractions on the Canadian side include:

• The floral clock
• A hydroelectric power plant
• Panoramic views of Bridal Veils Falls, American Falls and Horseshoe Falls
• City of Niagara Cruises boat trip to Horseshoe Falls
• Journey Behind the Falls , where you can explore the tunnels behind the Falls and stand at the foot of the Falls
• Skylon Tower , which you can ascend for a bird’s eye view

While the main attractions on the American side of Niagara Falls are:

• Terrapin Point viewpoint, which is close to Horseshoe Falls
• Close up views of Bridal Veils Falls and American Falls
• Cave of the Winds wooden walkway below the falls
• Maid of the Mist boat trip to Horseshoe Falls
• Hiking and biking paths on Goat Island
• Niagara Falls Observation Tower

Niagara Falls State Park (the American side) allows you to get closer to Bridal Veil Falls and American Falls, but your view is obscured as you either look down at the falls, or from the side. The islands are unique to the American side and there are several hikes that allow you to explore Niagara Gorge further up-river. Both sides offer boat trips, observation towers and adventure activities. The Canadian side is more commercial with restaurants, shops, casinos, games centres and other attractions in the area too. It has more activities on offer and better panoramic views than the American side, making it most tourists’ preferred side.

What is Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is actually a group of three waterfalls at the southern end of Niagara Gorge:

Horseshoe Falls is the famous waterfall that you see in pictures of Niagara Falls. Horseshoe Falls lies on the border between Canada and USA and channels approximately 90% of the Niagara River. It is sometimes called Canadian Falls and sits at 51 metres (167 ft) tall and an impressive 820 metres (2,700 ft) wide.

American Falls is the second-largest of the three waterfalls. It lies on the American side of Niagara Falls and spans 290 metres wide (950 ft) and 34 metres (110 ft) tall.

Bridal Veil Falls also lies on the American side of Niagara Falls. Luna Island separates it from the American Falls while Goat Island separates it from Horseshoe Falls.

Where is Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is just over an hour’s drive from Toronto and sits in the Niagara Gorge . The gorge is a 6.8 mile (11km) canyon, through which the Niagara River flows. Niagara Falls marks the international border between Canada and USA and begins at the base of Horseshoe Falls, ending downriver at the edge of the geological formation known as the Niagara Escarpment. The falls actually originated here about 12,500 years ago but have receded upstream toward Lake Erie due to erosion of the riverbed which has created Niagara Gorge.

Niagara Falls Attractions Map

How to get to niagara falls from toronto.

Niagara Falls is most commonly accessed from Toronto or New York. If you’re visiting the Canadian side, there are 4 main options to get to Niagara Falls from Toronto:

1. While public transport is the cheapest of these options, it’s also the least convenient. Getting the train (which runs on a seasonal schedule) is slower than driving and the bus stops are located outside the main Niagara Falls area, so you’ll have to do a lot of walking. To get the train you’ll need to take the GO Train or the ViaRail Train from the upper-level tracks of Union Station. From the Niagara Falls station it’s over 2 miles (3.5km) to the falls – a 45 minute walk. The easiest way to get to Niagara Falls by bus is to take the Megabus . This is a fast and cheap option, however the bus stop is outside the train station, so you’ll have the same long walk to do.

2. Hiring a car is more expensive, but relatively easy and can be done from Toronto Airport or Downtown. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, and can allow you to spend longer at Niagara. You could even stay overnight or cross the Rainbow Bridge and explore Niagara Falls from the American side too.

3. If you don’t hire a car we’d recommend booking onto a tour . There are plenty of tour companies offering day trips to Niagara Falls from Toronto with a range of tours so you can choose the one that best fits your interests and budget. Tours can also include other stops in the surrounding area, like Niagara-on-the-Lake and local wineries, and provide really informative commentary too.

What is there to do on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls?

There is so much to do on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls it can be tricky to squeeze everything into one day. We’ve listed all the main attractions on Niagara Fall’s Canadian side, from North to South, as you enter the park from Toronto, to the showstopping Horseshoe Falls.

1) The Floral Clock

Niagara Falls lies across Lake Ontario from Toronto, but the drive requires circumnavigating the shoreline past Hamilton. On the lake’s shore you’ll find the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake , which is worth a visit itself. From here, you can follow the Niagara River south towards the gorge. The first attraction as you enter the Niagara Parks is a 12 metre (40 ft) wide clock. Featuring a face of colourful flowers , this floral clock marks the entrance to Niagara Falls. The design changes annually but the letters often spell out NIAGARA PARKS as the twelve points on the clock face. Thousands of carpet bedding plants and are changed twice each year to maintain the intricate design and the mechanism is powered by Ontario Power Generation.

2) Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant

The Robert Moses Niagara Hydroelectric Power Station sits on the banks of Niagara River. It works by diverting the water from the Niagara River, which spins turbines that power generators in the power plant, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. It is the largest power generator in New York State , with a capacity of 2.4 million kilowatts.

3) Niagara Whirlpools

As you follow the Niagara Parkway up the river the falls eventually come into view. There are a lot of attractions on this stretch, including a Butterfly Conservatory and Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens . The WildPlay Niagara Falls Whirlpool Adventure Course can also be found here, which features an exciting high ropes course over the world-famous and violently turbulent Niagara whirlpools.

Around the next riverbend, you’ll find Niagara Helicopter Tours . Offering panoramic bird’s-eye views of Niagara Falls and Gorge, flying aboard one of the world’s quietest helicopters is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You have the flexibility to fly when the weather is best, giving you great photo opportunities and you’ll receive informative audio commentary from your pilot too.

The train station is situated along this stretch of the river and will be your arrival spot if you choose to brave the public transport route from Toronto. We’d recommend stopping off at a few activities as you navigate along Niagara Parkway to really make the most of your visit.

4) Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge is an official international border crossing between Canada and USA . You can cross by car or foot for tourism purposes, allowing you to explore the American side of Niagara too. If you only have a day to explore we wouldn’t recommend you cross the bridge as, although the crossing only takes 5 minutes, getting through customs can take much longer.

By Rainbow Bridge you’ll find the Niagara SkyWheel . As Canada’s largest observation wheel, the SkyWheel stands 23 metres (175 ft) tall and gives riders spectacular aerial views from enclosed gondolas with audio commentary.

Nearby you’ll find the Zipline to The Falls , a thrilling zipline experience which allows you to soar 67 metres (220 ft) high above the Niagara River Gorge. Adrenaline junkies can glide 670 metres (2200 ft) past the American Falls to the base of the thundering Horseshoe Falls, enjoying unique birds-eye views of Niagara Falls.

5) Niagara City Cruises Boat Tour

Previously known as the Maid of the Mist tour, Niagara City Cruises boats take you up close with the power of the falls. You’ll cruise past American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls before being enveloped by a plume of mist at the foot of Horseshoe Falls . Waterproof plastic ponchos are provided as you’ll get so close you’ll definitely get wet, although there is an indoor section for anyone adverse to water.

6) Horseshoe Falls

Approximately 3,160 tons of water flows over Niagara Falls every second – 75,750 gallons over the American and Bridal Veil Falls and 681,750 gallons over Horseshoe Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the pièce de résistance of Niagara Falls. You can feel the power of the waterfall at the brink of the cascade by the Table Rock Welcome Centre .

7) Journey Behind the Falls

The Table Rock Welcome Centre houses the entrance to Journey Behind the Falls . In this experience you descend 38 metres (125 ft) in a lift to the 130 year old tunnels below, which extend 46 metres (151 ft) behind the waterfall. You can walk through the bedrock and read the history of the tunnels on informative boards along the walls. Look out for the viewing portals, which are cut straight through the rock and offer a once-in-a-lifetime view of the back of Horseshoe Falls.

Descend further to the stand on the Lower Observation Deck and look up at the falls from below – an impressive vantage point and great photo opportunity! You’ll be able to feel the vibrations of the water thundering down a 13 storey drop and may get a little wet, but fetching yellow ponchos are provided on entry.

8) Skylon Tower

From the bottom to the top, it’s worth marching up to the Skylon Tower , which offers sweeping 360° views of Niagara Falls city. On a clear day, visibility is up to 80 miles so you can see Toronto, as well as across to the USA. The tower also features an arcade and a revolving restaurant with 2 levels of fine dining, both 236 metres (775 ft) above the falls.

9) Niagara Falls Night-time Light Show

Perhaps the most impressive way to experience the falls, the night-time light show gives you the opportunity to experience Niagara falls in a way few other tourists do. At night the falls are lit up in a dazzling illumination display , with frequent firework displays . On a Niagara Falls Night Tour , you get the opportunity to cruise the river, dine in the iconic Table Rock Restaurant and visit the Illumination Tower, where you can even control the lights that appear on the falls!

There’s a lot to explore in the surrounding area of Niagara, which you can discover in our article: There’s more to Niagara than the Falls . And if you need transport back to Toronto Airport, you can book a Toronto Airport Private Transfer from Niagara Falls .

The Top 29 Best Things to do in Toronto

There’s more to Niagara than the Falls

The Best Things to do in Honolulu + Top Tips for Visiting Pearl Harbor

The Thorough Guide to Magdalena Bay Whales’ Grey Whale Camp

Big Island Retreat: Hawaiʻi Budget Hotel Review

Kona Tiki Review: A Beautiful Budget Boutique Hawaiʻi Hotel

Everything you need to know about Humpback Whale Watching in Los Cabos

The Truth about Swimming with Turtles in Akumal

The 18 Best Vegan & Veggie Spots in Downtown Tulum

The Thorough Guide to Uxmal

Everything you need to know about Blue Whale Watching in Loreto

The 15 Best Things to do in Loreto

Should You Touch a Grey Whale in Baja California Sur?

Everything you need to know about Swimming with Whale Sharks in La Paz

What to eat in La Paz + The 4 Best Spots for Fish Tacos

Check us out on social media!

Save this article for later!

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

The 21 Best Niagara Falls Tours

May 9, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Sharing is caring!

As one of the most iconic natural attractions in Canada, there are so many amazing Niagara Falls tours to choose from. Since most people come here to see one of the largest waterfalls in the world, many of the Niagara Falls tours centre around that. However, Niagara Falls is more than just Horseshoe Falls– it’s a lively destination with a vibrant tourism industry, filled with great food, exciting nightlife, and plenty of activities for thrill-seekers and nature-lovers alike.

So whether you’re looking for a Niagara Falls helicopter tour, a Niagara Falls boat tour, a Niagara Falls wine tour, or one of the many other tours in the area, we’ve got you covered in this guide to the best Niagara Falls tours in Ontario , Canada!

Niagara Falls Tours Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, we get a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and they help keep these travel guides free. It’s a win-win! For more information, visit our  privacy policy.

Don’t have time to read the entire Niagara Falls Tours article? These are our four favourite tours overall:

• Best Comprehensive Tour of Niagara Falls : There’s a reason this tour has more than 300 5-star reviews. It combined many of the top Niagara Falls attractions, including a helicopter tour, a boat cruise, lunch at the Skylon Tower, and more!
• Best Helicopter Tour of Niagara Falls : It’s not too often that you’ll find yourself near one of the world’s most famous waterfalls, so why not go all out and opt for a 20-minute grand helicopter tour?
• Best Comprehensive Tour of Niagara Falls with No Helicopter : If you’re looking to experience many of the top attractions in Niagara Falls without a helicopter tour, including Canada and the USA, this is it.
• Best Day Trip Tour from Niagara Falls : When you’ve had enough of the falls, take this tour to Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of the most famous wine regions in Canada.

1. Niagara Falls Canada Tour + Helicopter Ride and Skylon Tower Lunch

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (342+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

We’ve been to Niagara Falls so many times and have seen the waterfalls from many different angles and one of our favourite things to do is take a helicopter ride over the falls. It gives you such a different perspective of this truly amazing natural wonder. However, they’re also incredible from the ground, so that’s why we recommend this thrilling small-group sightseeing tour .

This is the best tour we could find that combines so much of what we love about Niagara Falls. You get to fly around and over the mighty falls on a helicopter ride, travel to the edge of the Horseshoe Falls and back on the iconic Hornblower Cruise, feel the power of the water on the “Journey Behind the Falls” walk, and enjoy lunch in the Revolving Dining Room at Skylon Tower. Does it get any better?

Danny was our guide from Sightseeing Tours and he did an exceptional service to our group. We kept us on time, took pictures, was friendly and took us to all the spots. The helicopter tour is fantastic and the food at the Skylon was superb. I had the Salmon and it was good. I recommend this tour 100% -Guadalupe ( see more reviews )

This 5-6 hour Niagara Falls tour includes:

• Round-trip transport from the downtown Niagara Falls area
• 12-minute helicopter ride
• Hornblower Boat Cruise (seasonal)
• Journey Behind The Falls
• Lunch at Skylons Summit Suite Buffet
• Professional guide

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

2. Niagara Falls in 1 Day: Tour of American and Canadian Sides

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (3,574+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Do you want to see the American side of Niagara Falls or the Canadian side of Niagara Falls? If you answered both, this is the tour for you!

Get the full experience from both sides of the border on this deluxe tour of everything Niagara Falls has to offer . Visit all the must-see Niagara Falls attractions, including the thrilling Maid of the Mist boat cruise, the exciting Cave of the Winds walk, take a trip to the top of the Skylon Tower, and much more. All attraction and admission fees, plus hotel transfers and road tolls are included. Food and beverages are at your own expense.

I highly recommend this tour. Our tour guide, Dayna, was funny and informative. She kept the tour going with great stories. We had hotel pickup and drop off which was very easy and convenient. Dayna, knew all the employees at each stop so we got the star treatment. Wait times were minimal and parking was great. We enjoyed all the sights. Dayna also gave us recommendations of shopping, restaurants and directions from our hotel to walk and see the falls at night. -Michelle ( see more reviews )

Marvel at Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls from both the American side and the Canadian side on this comprehensive tour of Niagara Falls.

This 7-hour Niagara Falls tour includes:

• 6-7 hour guided tour of Niagara Falls
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from the Niagara Falls area (not from Toronto or Buffalo)
• Maid of the Mist Boat Ride (late April- November, can vary due to weather)
• Journey Behind the Falls (replaces Maid of the Mist when not operating)
• Cave of the Winds with Hurricane Deck (mid-May- early November)
• Cave Gorge Trip & World Changed Here Pavilion (replaces Cave of the Winds when not operating)
• All road fees and bridge tolls

3. Best of Niagara Falls Canada Small Group w/Boat & Behind Falls

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (1,404+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

This is another one of the most popular comprehensive Niagara Falls tours. This 5-hour, small-group tour is led by a local guide who will take you to some of the area’s top attractions. Check out the view from the top of the Skylon Tower, a Hornblower cruise, or a thrilling Journey “Behind the Falls”. These are some of the top attractions in the area. Different options take place depending on the season. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Martina was a great tour guide! She included lots of city details which was awesome. She delivered us right on time and walked us to the entrance to all the attractions and we were well informed on what to do. Behind the falls and the boat ride are great. -Eric ( see more reviews )

This 4-5 hours comprehensive tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in the downtown Niagara Falls area
• Transport by minivan
• Admission to: Journey Behind the Falls and Skylon Tower Hornblower Cruise (seasonal, operating April-November only) Admission to Niagara’s Fury and Butterfly Conservatory from December – April

4. Niagara Falls Canada Day + Night Small Group Tour w/Falls Dinner

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (100+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Experience beautiful Niagara Falls by day and night on this all-inclusive full-day tour . Ascend the Skylon Tower, feel the falls’ mist aboard a Hornblower cruise, and visit Journey Behind the Falls. This is where most tours end. But not this one. After the sun sets, settle in for a gourmet 3-course meal at a restaurant offering dramatic views of Horseshoe Falls lit up by bright lights before heading to the tower where the spotlights are mounted to change the colour! Hotel transport is included on this small-group tour that is limited to seven people.

The entire day/night was amazing. The boat ride up to the falls was so much fun. Changing the lights on the falls was pretty cool. Dinner at Rock Table was very nice with a spectacular view of the falls. Watching the fireworks at the top of Skylon Tower was great. Our tour guide Khalid was super. He was so accommodating, informative, and all around a great host. We highly recommend this tour. -Teresa ( see more reviews )

This full-day Niagara Falls tour includes:

• Free hotel pickup and drop-off in the downtown Niagara Falls area
• Professional driver/guide
• “I Lit Up Niagara Falls” Certificate
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• All taxes and fees

5. Niagara Falls Canadian Side Tour and Maid of the Mist Boat Ride Option

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (2,233+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Get to know the best of Niagara Falls on this 6-hour tour . Visit some of the area’s top attractions, such as the Skylon Tower, and cross the border into the United States for an iconic cruise on the Maid of the Mist. During the off-season when Maid of the Mist is not running, you’ll get to embark on the thrilling Journey Behind the Falls excursion. This is a great way to see some of the top highlights while stepping foot in two countries! Hotel pickup and drop-off in Niagara Falls (Ontario and New York) are included.

Randy made this an awesome, memorable experience! A must do if you’re traveling in this area. The views are unbelievable we saw so much more than we would have on our own -Deborah ( see more reviews )

If you’re looking for a quick tour that combines two of the top highlights in Niagara Falls, this is a popular option. Visits also include Canadian Horseshoe Falls, Table Rock House, and Queen Victoria Park.

This 6-hour tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• Maid of the Mist Boat Ride* (early May- late October)
• Return trip up Skylon Tower
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

6. Niagara Falls Grand Helicopter Adventure

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (424+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  20 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re interested in a helicopter tour, few places compare to beautiful Niagara Falls. This is your chance to experience Niagara Falls like never before, from an entirely new perspective, on this scenic 20-minute helicopter journey . Enjoy the incredible sight of the American, Bridal Veil, and Canadian Horseshoe Falls from high above, along with a mesmerizing view of the many landmarks and renowned wine country of the Niagara region. The view is unforgettable, but bring a camera to capture the moment—and a friend—because a minimum of two people is required.

This was a brilliant experience which was worthwhile and thoroughly enjoyable. Ryan was the helicopter pilot, he was extremely helpful, very friendly and put us all at ease. The helicopter ride was smooth and gave a fantastic view of Niagara Falls and surrounding area. This was a memorable trip which my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed – thank you Ryan you were fantastic. -David ( see more reviews )

Soar over Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake aboard a state-of-the-art helicopter while soaking up panoramic views of the falls, historic landmarks, and wine country.

This 20-minute Helicopter tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• Full view of the entire Niagara Region

7. Niagara Falls CANADA Helicopter Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (530+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As you can probably tell in this guide to the best Niagara Falls tours, we’ve featured many helicopter tours. This is because it was one of the highlights of our trip to Niagara Falls back in 2017. All of them offer spectacular views, so it really comes down to budget and the amount of time you want in the air. This particular helicopter tour of Niagara Falls is only 10-12 minutes, giving you more than enough time to see the waterfalls from the sky for the least amount of money.

Enjoy the incredible sight of the American, Bridal Veil, and Canadian Horseshoe Falls from high above, along with a spectacular view of the many landmarks along the way, like the Niagara River and Whirlpool Rapids. Each passenger receives an individual headset that provides interesting and educational commentary about the falls during the flight.

Experience of a lifetime. Perfect service, perfect pilot and everything else was just perfect. We had to wait a few hours due to weather but as soon aswe got the green light, we were on the first flight. We loved every moment of it -Vinil ( see more reviews )

This 10-12 minute Helicopter tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• 10 minutes in flight 12 minutes including loading and photos (Approx).
• Taped commentary via speakers in Airbus H130 aircraft

8. Experience Niagara Falls in Three Hours

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (107+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Short on time but want to make the best of it? When it comes to Niagara Falls tours, this is one of the best for truly making the most out of your time with admission tickets to the Hornblower boat cruise, Whirlpool Observation Deck, tunnel system behind the waterfalls, and Souvenir City included. In addition to round-trip transport from select hotels, your guide ensures a stress-free tour and provides commentary at stops along the way.

Our Guide was John from magnificent tours, he was friendly and upbeat and had loads of interesting facts and stories. He was great with the kids who loved the tour. Great to skip some queues for attractions and 3 hours was just right for us. -Sheena ( see more reviews )

This 3-hour Niagara Falls tour includes:

• Transport by private coach

9. The Best All-Inclusive Walking Tour of Niagara Falls

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (25+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Experience the great wonder of the world like never before with the top must-do Niagara Falls attractions! You’ll get as close as possible to this powerful natural icon on this all-inclusive walking tour led by an experienced and friendly tour guide. You’ll start the tour by meeting in the morning at the base of the Skylon Tower, making sure that you’re one of the first in line at every attraction.

If you’re looking for a guided tour that combines many of the top attractions in addition to great value, this 4-hour tour of Niagara Falls is for you. You’ll get spectacular views of all three falls (Canadian/Horseshoe, American and Bridal), ride up the Skylon Tower for an aerial view of Niagara Falls, jump on a hornblower cruise and get super close to Horseshoe Falls, learn fascinating stories about the history of Niagara Falls, feel the thunderous vibrations of Niagara Falls from behind them, and see and learn about over 20 other landmarks along the way.

We booked this tour after having done similar excursions in Europe. This was by far the best tour we have ever been on!! The tour guide was professional, punctual and very knowledgeable of the area. The stops and attractions were well planned and organized. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone who wants a first class experience in discovering Niagara Falls! -Dino ( see more reviews )

This 4-hour walking tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• All Fees and Taxes
• Priority access
• Expertly guided tour of Niagara Falls by a local and licensed guide
• Niagara Falls coupon pack with over $150 worth of savings
• Skylon Tower
• Hornblower Boat Tour

10. Niagara Falls CANADA, Open-Top (Wet) Jet Boat Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (417+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  45 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Now for something totally different. Niagara Falls produces a lot of water, so why not enjoy a wet and wild adventure on the Niagara River on this Niagara Falls open-top jet-boat ride ? Jump aboard your powerful speedboat and strap in for a thrilling ride. Zoom across the rolling waves as your river tour guide shares entertaining commentary, and get soaked as you enjoy the ultimate Niagara experience.

The people were so nice and friendly. We felt very safe and well taken care of. They do an excellent job making sure you hit all the waves and get super wet. The most fun I’ve had in a long time! 🙂 10/10 recommend! -Shannon ( see more reviews )

Admire the beautiful scenery and swirling waters of the Niagara River on this thrilling open-top jet-boat ride. Ponchos are provided but you will still need a change of clothes.

This 45-minute adrenaline-packed tour of the Niagara River includes:

• 45-minute jet-boat ride
• Safety equipment
• Pre-trip briefing and safety orientation
• Live commentary on board
• Local taxes
• 6% fuel surcharge

11. Niagara CANADA, Domed (Dry) Jet Boat Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars (101+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  45 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If the thrill of a jet boat ride sounds amazing but you don’t want to get wet, this is the tour for you! Experience the swirling currents of the mighty Niagara River without getting wet on this Niagara jet-boat adventure . Hop aboard our domed jetboats and ride the choppy river with your guide. Please note that you do not see Niagara Falls on these tours. The only boat that goes to the falls is the Hornblower Cruise and Maid of the Mist.

Going through rapid crazy waves!!! Super fun experience! Fall foliage was gorgeous! Staff was very nice and made the experience even more fun!!! -Karen ( see more reviews )

Discover a different side of Niagara Falls on this 45-minute jetboat tour that includes:

• 45-minute jet boat ride
• Life-jacket

12. Clifton Hill Fun Pass: Top 6 Attractions

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (140+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Similar to places like Las Vegas, Niagara Falls has lots of tourist attractions, many of which can be found on Clifton Hill. If you’d like to enjoy attractions like the Niagara SkyWheel (Canada’s largest observation wheel), Wizards Golf or Dinosaur Adventure Golf, and the Movieland Wax Museum of Stars, the Clifton Hill Fun Pass is a great pass to buy .

Great deal for these attractions. We enjoyed the wax museum & Zombie ride the most. We loved doing the ferris wheel at night to see the falls lit up. Definitely recommend buying off Viator. -Roseanne ( see more reviews )

The Clifton Hill Fun Pass includes:

• 6 Top Attractions in Niagara Falls

13. Niagara SkyWheel Admission Ticket

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (306+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for one of the best ways to admire the beauty of Niagara Falls, take a spin on the Niagara SkyWheel, which stands 175 feet (53 metres) tall, making it Canada’s largest observation wheel. Enjoy a breathtaking journey on this giant Ferris wheel, with incredible views of the famed Horseshoe and American Falls, the Niagara skyline and other landmarks from the safety and comfort of an enclosed, climate-controlled cabin. Take pictures in every direction and listen as a narration details the sites below. This economical sightseeing attraction is available year-round, in any type of weather, making it one of the top attractions in Niagara Falls.

Sky wheel was a great fun experience for everyone. Staff where friendly and helpfull. Zero line up, and 3 full rotations stopped at the top and got great views of niagra. -Karen ( see more reviews )

Soar above Niagara Falls for stunning views of the Niagara River, Niagara Parks and Clifton Hill on this 8-minute tour that includes:

• Niagara SkyWheel Admission
• Fully enclosed, climate-controlled gondola
• Optional audio narration

14. Zipline To The Falls in Niagara Falls, Canada

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars (453+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking to combine an incredible view of Niagara Falls with some excitement and adrenaline, enjoy this unique zipline experience across Niagara River Gorge! Strap on your gear and head up to the launch deck before soaring down 2,200 feet (670 metres) of cable near the mighty Horseshoe waterfall. Feel this incredible force of nature and enjoy the views before landing safely on the other side.

The whole experience was awesome. The employees all very friendly and wete very knowledgeable. Would love to do it again next time I come to the Falls. -Geoff ( see more reviews )

This 1.5 Hour zip-lining experience includes:

• Safety helmet and comfortable harness with a pouch for personal effects.
• All necessary instructions safety and enjoyment.
• Falls viewing and photo opportunity at Falls Landing and Observation Deck.
• Return to the top via an open-air shuttle

15. Skylon Tower, Niagara Falls Ontario Observation Deck Admission

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (484+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Hour | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As you can see from the photo, the Skylon Tower offers one of the best views you can get of Niagara Falls. It can be busy, however, so it’s best to prebook your admission ticket to the Skylon Tower and soak up stunning views of Niagara Falls. A glass-enclosed elevator—‘Ride to the Top’—speeds you up to the observation decks in seconds. From 775 feet (236 metres) above the falls, you can snap unbelievable photos of Horseshoe and American Falls, the Great Gorge, and Niagara River. The Revolving Dining Room and the Summit Suite Buffet offer sumptuous meal options as well, so you can always pair it off with a meal as well. Visit at night to see the illuminated falls or check out the seasonal fireworks displays. We had a great time in Niagara Falls! Was a great vantage point from Skylon Tower. Would recommend to anyone visiting Niagara Falls. -Kevin ( see more reviews )

This 1-2 hour experience in Niagara Falls includes:

• Skylon Tower Admission
• Incredible Views

16. Half-Day Wine & Cheese Tour – Niagara On The Lake Wine Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (290+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Once you’ve had enough of the main attractions in Niagara Falls, you may want to join a tour over in nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of the top wine regions in Canada. During this small-group wine tour , you’ll discover the highlights of Canada’s burgeoning Niagara wine region while travelling in a comfortable minibus. You’ll visit three or four top-rated local wineries, enjoy numerous tastes, discover how wine is made, tour the vineyards, and even enjoy a wine-and-cheese pairing at one of the stops. At the end of your adventure, return directly to your hotel.

Outstanding trip! We went on this tour knowing very little about wine. By the time we finished our tours we learned so much. The wine itself was very enjoyable and the staff were incredibly friendly. I will be recommending this to EVERYONE -Sion ( see more reviews )

This 4+ Hour wine tour includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (Niagara Falls & Niagara On The Lake)
• Driver/guide
• Bottled water
• Tasting Fees at Wineries
• Hand Sanitizer

17. Niagara-on-the-Lake Cycle and Wine-Tasting Tour with Optional Lunch

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (171+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re interested in touring one of Canada’s most famous wine regions, this tour is a great option. Enjoy the quiet country bicycle trails and vineyards of scenic Niagara-on-the-Lake, which is super close to Niagara Falls, on this guided biking and wine-tasting tour . Choose from the 6.5-hour tour, complete with a two-course lunch, or the half-day 4-hour tour. Pedal over mostly flat and simple biking routes to the region’s best wineries to taste unique Canadian wines , including Ontario’s famous ice wine.

The whole tour was fantastic, Chris J was a great guide, very informative and we loved every minute. Group was small so we got to know everyone and wine tasting was well organised and different at each of the 4 vineyards. Lincoln was nice and bikes were good, definitely worth every penny! -Linda ( see more reviews )

Taste unique Canadian wine varietals, including Ontario’s famous ice wine, at wineries ranging from large-production to boutique on this 4-6 hour biking tour that includes:

• Professional, local guide
• Wine-tasting fees and vineyard tour
• Fuji cruiser bicycle and helmet
• 2 Course Lunch (Full-Day Tour Option)
• Pickup and delivery of purchases back to HQ
• Customers do not have to carry purchases on the bikes
• Small Cheese & Charcuterie Box (Half-Day Tour Option)

18. Full-Day Group Wine Tour (with cheese and charcuterie) in Niagara-on-the-Lake

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (86+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Experience the beautiful scenery and the delicious wines of Niagara-on-the-Lake on this full-day small-group wine tasting tour . This is a great introduction to the region for first-timers or can also be a wonderful day out for locals as this tour includes all your transport, allowing you to sample all the different wines without worrying about driving. You’ll also get to enjoy a cheese board and charcuterie at one winery and have some time to explore the beautiful Olde Towne. This is such a wonderful tour for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Niagara Falls.

Marko was our guide and made this experience very special from the time he picked us up until the time he dropped us off. A wonderful group of couples and a single lady who we thoroughly enjoyed tasting wine and having conversation with between wineries. Awesome experience and so glad booked this tour. -Rhonda ( see more reviews )

This 5-hour wine-tasting tour in Niagara-on-the-Lake includes:

• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Round-trip private transfer
• Wine tasting

19. Small Group Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Tasting Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (411+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As you can see, there are lots of tours around Niagara-on-the-Lake and that’s because it’s one of the top wine regions in Canada. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover Niagara-on-the-Lake, the birthplace of Ontario’s modern wine industry, on this guided, small-group wine-tasting tour . Sample the area’s wide variety of world-class wines, including Ontario’s famous ice wine. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included (on afternoon departure only).

When I tell you I had the time of my life on this tour. My husband and I ended up the only ones which was very cool. Our guide Peter was so great, patient, and enthusiastic. My God the wines…. My husband who formally claimed he wasn’t a fan of wine and didn’t like red left a different man! I swear he enjoyed it more than I did Haha All the wineries were lovely. The staff were awesome. Never felt rushed or pressured. There is no way you can leave disappointed! -Cassidy ( see more reviews )

This 4-Hour wine tasting tour includes:

• Morning Tour is 3 – 3.5 hours (9.45 am – 1 pm)
• The afternoon Tour is approximately 3.5 – 4 hours (1.30 pm – 5 pm)
• Wine-tasting tour through Niagara-on-the-Lake wine country
• Professional and knowledgeable guide
• Afternoon Tour – Hotel pickup and drop-off from Niagara-on-the-Lake Hotels or Niagara Falls Hotels

20. Premium Tasting Experience Transportation and Wine Tastings

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (72+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Interested in more than wine? Get a taste of the Niagara-on-the-Lake region on this winery, distillery, and brewery tour . This small-group tour brings you to three different properties to taste the wines of the region (with a choice of beer, whiskey, or wine tasting at the Wayne Gretzky Estate.) Learn about the properties’ histories and production methods on this interactive half-day tour.

My husband and I had a great time on this wine tour. Mark was punctual, extremely friendly and informative. Best wine tour we have been on yet! Emily’s tour at Peller Estates Winery was very informative and enjoyable. Loved their wine and ice wine. We enjoyed the wine at Trius and wine and food at Wayne Gretzky Estates. We will be back Mark!! -Lori ( see more reviews )

This 5-6 Hour tour around Niagara-on-the-Lake includes:

• Alcoholic Beverages

21. Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Tour with Lunch -Private Tour in Classic English Cab

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (39+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for a truly unique way to enjoy the wine region of Niagara Falls, this tour is for you! Enjoy an in-depth and indulgent introduction to the esteemed Niagara wine region on this private tour in a classic London black cab . Meet your guide at your Niagara Falls or Niagara-on-the-Lake hotel, hop aboard your vehicle for the day, and head out to try some of Ontario’s best wines. You’ll get an introduction to winemaking and will enjoy a tutored tasting. Following a multi-course lunch at a gourmet restaurant, or an outside picnic lunch (weather dependent), venture to four other wineries to sample numerous other varietals.

I have done several wine tours and this was by FAR the greatest one. Tom, our driver, was very knowledgeable of the area, took us to see beautiful sites when we had extra time between wineries and took wonderful care of us! The novelty of touring around in the English can was totally worth it – so fun! I highly recommend this tour to anyone who loves NOTL or is looking to experience it for the first time! A+ -Kathleen ( see more reviews )

This unique wine-tasting tour near Niagara Falls includes:

Looking for more cool tours?

Whether you’re looking for more wine tours or exploring other parts of Ontario, we’ve got you covered. Check out these travel guides below:

• The Best Niagara wine tours
• The Best Toronto Tours
• The Best Montreal Tours
• The Best Calgary Tours

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Please enter an answer in digits: three + 13 =

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© 2022 Must Do Canada. All Rights Reserved.

Things to Do in Canada

• Privacy Policy
• Work With Us
• Get in Touch
• Facts about Canada
• Canadian Languages
• Canadian Money
• Canada Flags
• Things to Do in Calgary
• Best Canada Road Trips
• Best Road Trip Essentials
• Fall in Canada
• Travel Resources

Travel Across Canada Every Week

Join our weekly newsletter for the latest articles, videos, top photos, and more!

• Yonge-Dundas Square in Toronto is Now Called “Sankofa Square”
• Best Western Brooks’ SureStay Plus debuts in Alberta
• Air Canada Arrives in Tulum, Mexico as the First Canadian Airline
• 15 Of The Greatest And Most Famous Canadian Singers Of All Time

EnjoyLivingCanada

Canadian Magazine

• Canada Attractions

The Ultimate Guide to Niagara Falls Canada

Planning a memorable vacation can be overwhelming, especially when choosing the perfect destination that offers breathtaking natural beauty and thrilling experiences.

Imagine missing out on the opportunity to witness one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, Niagara Falls. The thought of not capturing those awe-inspiring moments and creating lasting memories is disheartening.

Welcome to Niagara Falls, Canada, where nature’s grandeur meets exhilarating adventures. Experience the fall’s sheer power and beauty up close as you embark on boat tours that take you right into the heart of this majestic wonder. Indulge in captivating views, vibrant entertainment, and world-class dining options that will leave you spellbound. Make your vacation truly unforgettable by exploring Niagara Falls, Canada, today!

Page Contents

Introduction to Niagara Falls, Canada

Niagara Falls, Canada, is a world-renowned natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors annually. Located on the border between the province of Ontario and the state of New York, Niagara Falls is a breathtaking sight that captivates all who witness its majestic beauty.

The falls consist of three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the largest and most famous of the three, with its iconic crescent shape creating a mesmerizing cascade of water. These falls’ combined power and grandeur make Niagara an awe-inspiring destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Aside from its natural splendour, Niagara Falls offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From boat tours that take you up close to the roaring falls to helicopter rides that provide a bird ‘ s-eye view of this magnificent spectacle, there are endless ways to experience the wonder of Niagara.

In addition to its beauty, Niagara Falls boasts a vibrant tourism industry with numerous hotels, restaurants, casinos, and entertainment venues. Visitors can indulge in fine dining experiences overlooking the falls or try their luck at one of the many casinos in the area.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, there are plenty of opportunities to hike along scenic trails or explore nearby parks such as Queen Victoria Park. The region also offers wineries and vineyards where visitors can sample local wines amidst picturesque landscapes.

Whether you’re seeking natural beauty or thrilling experiences, Niagara Falls has something for everyone. Its timeless allure continues to attract visitors from around the world who come to witness this extraordinary marvel firsthand.

Facts about Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Here are some fascinating facts about Niagara Falls:

1. Location: Niagara Falls is located on the border between the United States and Canada, specifically between New York and Ontario.

2. Three Waterfalls: The falls consist of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the largest and most well-known.

3. Size and Power: Niagara Falls has an impressive average flow rate of about 750,000 gallons per second. It generates a tremendous amount of power that is harnessed for hydroelectricity.

4. Height and Width: Horseshoe Falls stands at approximately 167 feet (51 meters) tall, while American Falls reaches around 70 feet (21 meters). The combined width of all three falls is about 3,950 feet (1,204 meters).

5. Geological Formation: The falls were formed during the last ice age as glaciers receded from North America, allowing water from Lake Erie to flow into Lake Ontario through what is now known as the Niagara River.

6. Tourism Hub: Niagara Falls has become a major tourist destination with various attractions such as boat tours on Maid of the Mist or Hornblower Cruises, observation decks like Journey Behind the Falls and Skylon Tower, and a vibrant entertainment district.

7. Natural Beauty Preservation: Efforts have been made to preserve and protect this natural wonder. Both countries have established national parks around Niagara Falls to ensure its conservation for future generations.

8. Daredevils’ Playground: Over the years, many daredevils have attempted daring stunts at Niagara Falls including tightrope walking across it or going over in barrels—some with success but many with tragic consequences.

9. Illumination and Fireworks: At night, the falls are illuminated with colourful lights, creating a stunning spectacle. Additionally, fireworks displays are held regularly during the summer months, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

10. Symbol of Power and Beauty: Niagara Falls has become a symbol of power and beauty, inspiring artists, writers, and filmmakers throughout history. It continues to captivate people from all over the world with its awe-inspiring natural grandeur.

The History of the Canadian Side of Niagara Falls

The Canadian side of Niagara Falls has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. The majestic falls on the border between Canada and the United States have long been a source of awe and wonder for visitors worldwide.

The area’s earliest known inhabitants were Indigenous peoples, including the Onguiaahra tribe, who believed that the falls were a sacred place. European explorers first arrived in the 17th century, with French explorer Samuel de Champlain being one of the first to document his encounters with Niagara Falls.

In 1763, control of the region shifted to British hands following the French and Indian War. The British recognized the strategic importance of Niagara Falls and established Fort Niagara on the American side to control access to this vital waterway.

Niagara Falls played a significant role during the War of 1812 between Britain and the United States as both sides sought to gain control over this key territory. The famous Battle of Lundy’s Lane occurred near Niagara Falls in 1814, resulting in heavy casualties for both sides.

In 1848, an event that would forever change the appearance of Niagara Falls – an ice jam caused a massive buildup of ice at its base, temporarily stopping its flow. This allowed engineers to undertake significant construction projects on both sides of the falls, including bridges and hydroelectric power plants.

Today, millions of visitors flock to Niagara Falls each year, drawn by its natural beauty and storied past. The Canadian side offers stunning views from vantage points such as Queen Victoria Park and Journey Behind The Falls. It also has attractions like Clifton Hill entertainment district and Skylon Tower.

The history of the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is filled with triumphs, conflicts, engineering feats, and natural wonders. Its significance as a symbol of nature’s power continues to captivate people from all walks of life.

Why Niagara Falls?

There are several reasons why Niagara Falls is such a popular destination.

Firstly, the sheer power and beauty of the falls themselves are awe-inspiring. The three waterfalls that makeup Niagara Falls – Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls – collectively create a breathtaking display of cascading water. The thunderous roar and misty spray add to the dramatic experience.

Secondly, Niagara Falls offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. There is something for everyone, from boat tours that take you up close to the falls to hiking trails that offer stunning views from different vantage points. Additionally, there are casinos, museums, and entertainment venues in the surrounding area that provide additional entertainment options.

Furthermore, Niagara Falls is conveniently located between Canada and the United States. This makes it easily accessible for travelers from both countries and international tourists who can easily cross the border to experience this natural wonder.

Lastly, Niagara Falls has a rich history and cultural significance. It has been a source of inspiration for artists and writers throughout history. The falls have also played a role in various historical events and have been an important location for hydroelectric power generation.

Whether it’s the majestic beauty of the falls themselves or the range of activities available in the surrounding area, Niagara Falls continues to captivate visitors worldwide with its timeless allure.

What is available to do in Canada?

One of the main highlights of Niagara Falls is, of course, witnessing the majestic waterfalls up close. Visitors can take a boat tour on the Maid of the Mist or Journey Behind the Falls to experience the power and beauty of these iconic falls firsthand.

In addition to admiring the falls, there are numerous other attractions and activities available in Niagara Falls. Visitors can explore Clifton Hill, a vibrant street filled with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. They can also visit attractions such as Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Niagara SkyWheel, or Butterfly Conservatory.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is just a short drive away for those interested in history and culture. This charming town offers historic sites, wineries, and theaters that showcase live performances.

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails along the Niagara Gorge or a scenic drive along the Niagara Parkway. The area also has opportunities for golfing, cycling, and fishing.

Family Activities:

Niagara Falls is renowned for its most iconic attraction – the falls themselves. Families can experience the breathtaking natural wonder up close by taking a boat tour on the Maid of the Mist or Journey Behind the Falls.

For those seeking more adventure, there are several thrilling activities. The Clifton Hill area offers a range of attractions, such as indoor water parks, arcades, and mini-golf courses, ensuring that kids will stay entertained for hours.

Nature lovers can explore the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, which boasts hiking trails and stunning gorge views. Families can also visit the Butterfly Conservatory to witness hundreds of colorful butterflies in a tropical setting.

If you’re searching for educational experiences, you might consider visiting the Butterfly Conservatory or Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. These attractions offer interactive exhibits that will engage both children and adults alike.

Lastly, don’t forget to explore Niagara-on-the-Lake – a charming town located just a short drive from Niagara Falls. Beautiful parks, historical sites, and quaint shops are perfect for strolling with your family.

With so many options available, families visiting Niagara Falls will have no shortage of activities to enjoy together. Whether you wish to experience the power of the falls up close or immerse yourself in nature and culture, this picturesque Canadian destination offers something for everyone.

Fairs and Festivals

Niagara Falls, Canada is not only known for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its vibrant fairs and festivals that attract visitors from around the world. Throughout the year, there are numerous events that showcase the rich cultural heritage and entertainment options of the region.

One of the most popular festivals in Niagara Falls is the Niagara Grape and Wine Festival. Taking place in September, this festival celebrates the region’s thriving wine industry with tastings, vineyard tours, live music, and culinary experiences.

Another highlight is the Winter Festival of Lights, which runs from November to January. This festival transforms Niagara Falls into a magical winter wonderland with stunning light displays, fireworks shows, ice skating rinks, and holiday-themed activities.

For music enthusiasts, there’s the TD Niagara Jazz Festival held in July. This event brings together talented jazz musicians from across Canada and beyond for a weekend of soulful performances in various venues throughout Niagara Falls.

Other notable fairs and festivals include the Niagara Folk Arts Festival showcasing diverse cultural traditions through music, dance, and food; Canada Day celebrations featuring fireworks and live entertainment; and various art festivals highlighting local artists’ talents.

These fairs and festivals not only provide entertainment but also offer a chance to immerse oneself in the vibrant atmosphere of Niagara Falls while enjoying unique experiences that celebrate its rich heritage.

Games and Activities

Niagara Falls, in Canada, offers an abundance of exciting games and activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or prefer more relaxed entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this stunning destination.

One of the most popular attractions in Niagara Falls is the Clifton Hill Entertainment District. Here, you’ll find a variety of games and activities that will keep you entertained for hours. From arcade games and mini-golf to haunted houses and wax museums, there are endless options to choose from.

For those seeking a unique experience, take a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel. This towering observation wheel offers breathtaking views of the falls and surrounding area, and is a perfect opportunity to capture memorable photos while enjoying a leisurely ride.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, consider embarking on a thrilling jet boat tour. These high-speed rides take you through the rapids near Niagara Falls, providing an exhilarating adventure that will leave you soaked and smiling.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, take a stroll along the Niagara Parkway or visit one of the many beautiful parks in the area. Queen Victoria Park offers stunning views of both the American and Horseshoe Falls, making it an ideal spot for picnics or simply enjoying nature’s beauty.

Additionally, Niagara Falls is home to several casinos where visitors can try their luck at various games such as poker, blackjack, and slot machines. These establishments offer not only gaming but also live entertainment shows and fine dining options.

Museums and Exhibits

One prominent museum in Niagara Falls is the Niagara Falls History Museum. Located in the heart of downtown, this museum provides visitors with an immersive experience of the history and development of the city and surrounding regions. From interactive exhibits to historical artifacts, visitors can learn about the indigenous people who first inhabited the area, the growth of tourism around Niagara Falls, and significant events that shaped its past.

Another notable museum in Niagara Falls is the Daredevil Gallery located at Clifton Hill. This exhibit pays homage to those daring individuals who have attempted to conquer Niagara Falls throughout history. Visitors can explore stories of tightrope walkers, barrel riders, and other daredevils who risked their lives for fame and adventure.

For those interested in art and culture, a visit to the RiverBrink Art Museum is highly recommended. Situated along the picturesque Niagara River Parkway in Queenston, this museum houses an impressive collection of Canadian artwork spanning various periods and styles. From Group of Seven paintings to contemporary works by local artists, visitors can immerse themselves in Canada’s vibrant artistic heritage.

Additionally, there are several specialized exhibits that offer unique experiences in Niagara Falls. The Butterfly Conservatory allows visitors to walk through a tropical rainforest environment filled with thousands of colorful butterflies fluttering around them. The Bird Kingdom offers an opportunity to get up close with exotic birds from around the world within a beautifully designed aviary.

Is Niagara Falls more in Canada or the USA?

Niagara Falls is located on the Niagara River, which forms part of the border between Canada and the United States. The falls are located on the Canadian border in Ontario.

However, two other waterfalls in the Niagara Falls area are located on the American side of the border: American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. These falls are smaller than the Canadian Horseshoe Falls but are still a popular tourist attraction.

While the Canadian Horseshoe Falls are the most famous and impressive Niagara Falls, the falls are located on the border between Canada and the United States. They are a popular destination for visitors to both countries.

Why is Niagara Falls so famous?

Niagara Falls is famous for its natural beauty, power, and majesty. Here are some of the reasons why Niagara Falls is so well-known:

1. Natural Wonder: Niagara Falls is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. The falls comprise three waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. The Horseshoe Falls, located on the Canadian side of the border, is the largest and most impressive of the three falls.

2. Power and Energy: The falls are famous for their power and energy. The water that flows over the falls generates massive amounts of hydroelectric power, which is used to generate electricity for the surrounding region.

3. Spectacular Views : Niagara Falls offers visitors spectacular views from the Canadian and American sides of the border. Visitors can take boat tours, climb observation towers, or enjoy the views from the surrounding parks and trails.

4. Tourism and Attractions : Niagara Falls is famous for its tourism industry and many attractions, including casinos, museums, and amusement parks. Visitors can enjoy zip-lining, helicopter tours, and wine-tasting activities.

5. Cultural Significance : Niagara Falls has played a significant role in the culture and history of the region. The falls are an important site for Indigenous peoples and have also been the site of several historical events, including daredevil stunts and battles during the War of 1812.

Can I walk from Niagara Falls, NY, to Canada?

Walking from Niagara Falls, New York, to Canada across the Niagara River is impossible. The Niagara River is a fast-moving and dangerous body of water, and crossing it on foot is highly unsafe and illegal.

However, several legal and safe ways exist to cross the Niagara River between the United States and Canada. The Rainbow Bridge, which connects Niagara Falls, New York, and Niagara Falls, Ontario, is one of the most popular and convenient ways to cross the border. The bridge is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles and offers spectacular views of the falls and the surrounding area.

Visitors can also cross the Niagara River by taking a boat tour or helicopter ride, offering unique and exciting views of the falls and the surrounding area.

Can you catch a train from Toronto to Niagara Falls?

Yes, catching a train from Toronto to Niagara Falls is possible. VIA Rail Canada operates a train service between Toronto’s Union Station and Niagara Falls, with stops in several other cities.

The train journey from Toronto to Niagara Falls takes approximately 2.5 hours and offers passengers comfortable seating, onboard amenities, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

In addition to train service, there are several other transportation options for travelling between Toronto and Niagara Falls, including buses, private shuttles, and rental cars. Visitors can choose the option that best fits their travel needs and budget.

Is it free to visit Niagara Falls, Canada?

There is no admission fee to visit Niagara Falls in Canada, as the falls are a natural landmark and are accessible to the public free of charge. However, visitors may need to pay for parking, transportation, and any activities or attractions they participate in while at Niagara Falls.

For example, there is a fee to ride the Maid of the Mist boat tour or the Hornblower Niagara Cruises, offering close-up views of the falls from the Niagara River. Att attractions like the Skylon Tower, Journey Behind the Falls, and Niagara’s Fury require admission fees.

In addition, visitors should be aware that some areas around Niagara Falls may be privately owned, and access may be restricted or require payment. For example, some hotels and restaurants located near the falls charge for access to their observation decks or other viewing areas.

While there is no admission fee to visit Niagara Falls in Canada, visitors should be prepared to pay for any activities or attractions they choose to participate in and for any parking or transportation fees.

How much is a shuttle from Toronto to Niagara Falls?

The cost of a shuttle from Toronto to Niagara Falls can vary depending on several factors, including the shuttle company, the type of shuttle, the time of year, and the number of passengers.

As of my knowledge, the cutoff date of September 2021 and prices for a one-way shuttle ride from Toronto to Niagara Falls typically range from $50 to CAD 100 per person. Some shuttle companies also offer round-trip packages and group rates, which can provide additional savings.

It’s important to note that prices and availability vary depending on the shuttle company and the time of year. Some shuttle companies may also offer additional services or amenities, such as onboard Wi-Fi or refreshments, which can affect the price.

While the cost of a shuttle from Toronto to Niagara Falls can vary, it can be a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between the two destinations, particularly for visitors who cannot access a car or prefer not to drive.

Is one day enough for Niagara Falls?

While it is possible to see the significant sights of Niagara Falls in one day, it may not be easy to experience everything the area has to offer in such a short time. The time you need to spend at Niagara Falls depends on your interests, travel style, and the activities you want to do while you’re there.

If you’re short on time and want to see the falls, you can visit the viewing areas and take a boat tour in a few hours. However, you may need more time to explore the surrounding area, participate in additional activities, or visit nearby attractions.

Some popular activities and attractions around Niagara Falls include:

– Journey Behind the Falls: An observation deck that allows you to stand behind the falls – Niagara’s Fury: A 4D experience that simulates the creation of Niagara Falls – Skylon Tower: An observation tower with panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding area – Niagara-on-the-Lake: A charming town known for its wineries, shops, and restaurants – Niagara Fallsview Casino: A casino with gaming, entertainment, and dining options

If you have the time, spending two or three days at Niagara Falls can allow you to explore the area more thoroughly and participate in a broader range of activities. This can also give you more time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the falls and the surrounding area rather than feeling rushed to see everything in one day.

While one day can be enough to see the significant sights of Niagara Falls, visitors who have the time may want to consider spending more time in the area to experience all that it has to offer fully.

Do you need a passport to walk into Canada at Niagara Falls?

Yes, a valid passport is required to enter Canada from the United States, even if you only walk across the border at Niagara Falls. This applies to all travellers, including U.S. citizens, and is a requirement of both the Canadian and U.S. governments.

In addition to a valid passport, visitors may also need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, depending on their country of origin. It’s essential to check the specific entry requirements for your country before travelling to Canada.

Visitors should be prepared for some delays and additional screening when crossing the border, particularly during peak travel times. It’s also important to note that additional restrictions or requirements may be in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and travellers should check the latest regulations and guidelines before planning their trip.

Overall, while a passport is required to enter Canada from the United States, crossing the border at Niagara Falls can be a memorable and enjoyable experience, allowing visitors to see the falls from both sides of the border and explore the surrounding area.

Which side of Niagara Falls is better?

Both the Canadian and American sides of Niagara Falls offer unique and beautiful views of the falls, and which side is better depends largely on your preferences and interests. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which side of Niagara Falls to visit:

1. Views of the Falls: The Canadian side of the falls offers panoramic views of all three falls (Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil), while the American side provides closer views of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. The idea of the Horseshoe Falls from the Canadian side is considered more impressive and iconic. Still, the American side offers a closer and more intimate view of the falls.

2. Attractions and Activities: Both sides of Niagara Falls offer a wide range of attractions and activities, including boat tours, observation decks, museums, and amusement parks. The Canadian side has a more significant concentration of tourist attractions, including the Skylon Tower and the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort. In contrast, the American side offers more opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding natural areas.

3. Crowds and Atmosphere: The Canadian side of the falls tends to be more crowded and bustling, with a lively tourist atmosphere and plenty of restaurants, shops, and nightlife options. The American side is generally quieter and more laid-back, focusing on outdoor activities and natural beauty.

Both the Canadian and American sides of Niagara Falls offer unique and memorable experiences, and visitors should choose the side that best fits their interests and preferences. Many visitors choose to visit both sides of the falls to experience the natural beauty and attractions of the area thoroughly.

Is Niagara better at night or day?

The Niagara Falls are beautiful both during the day and at night, and each time of day offers a unique and memorable experience.

During the day, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the falls and the surrounding area, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. Boat tours such as the Maid of the Mist or Hornblower Niagara Cruises offer a close-up view of the falls from the Niagara River, and observation decks such as the Skylon Tower and Journey Behind the Falls provide panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding area.

The falls are illuminated at night by a dazzling display of colourful lights, adding a new dimension of beauty and magic to the experience. The Niagara Falls Illumination Project uses state-of-the-art lighting technology to light up the falls in various colours and patterns, creating a stunning visual display that can be enjoyed from both the Canadian and American sides of the border.

In addition to the illumination, visitors can enjoy nightly fireworks displays during summer and other special events and performances throughout the year.

Is Niagara Falls closer to Canada or New York?

The Niagara Falls are located on the Niagara River, which forms the border between the United States and Canada. The falls are closer to the Canadian side, with most Horseshoe Falls (the largest of the three falls) in Canada.

The American Falls and the smaller Bridal Veil Falls are located entirely within the United States, while the Horseshoe Falls straddle the border between Canada and the United States. The exact location of the falls can vary depending on the water flow and other factors. Still, generally speaking, the Canadian side is closer to the Horseshoe Falls than the American side.

Overall, whether you’re visiting the Canadian or American side of Niagara Falls, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views of the falls and the surrounding natural beauty of the area.

How do I get from Toronto to Niagara Falls?

There are several ways to get from Toronto to Niagara Falls, including:

1. By car: The most convenient way to get to Niagara Falls from Toronto is by car. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service from Toronto to Niagara Falls.

2. By bus: Several bus companies operate regular service between Toronto and Niagara Falls, with multiple daily departures. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, and tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station.

3. By train: VIA Rail Canada operates a train service between Toronto’s Union Station and Niagara Falls, with stops in several other cities. The train journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and offers passengers comfortable seating, onboard amenities, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

4. By shuttle: Several shuttle companies offer direct transportation between Toronto and Niagara Falls, with pickup and drop-off at specified locations in each city. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic, and prices can vary depending on the shuttle company and the shuttle type.

• Recent Posts

• Yonge-Dundas Square in Toronto is Now Called “Sankofa Square” - December 17, 2023
• Best Western Brooks’ SureStay Plus debuts in Alberta - December 16, 2023
• Air Canada Arrives in Tulum, Mexico as the First Canadian Airline - December 16, 2023

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

More Contents You Might Enjoy

What are the largest parks in Toronto? 5 of the biggest parks in Toronto

High Falls Timmins: A Natural Wonder in the Canadian Shield

The Northern Lights in Timmins: The Aurora Borealis

Meridian Place & Memorial Square Barrie: A Must Visit place

This Is The Top Tourist Attraction In Canada

• Niagara Falls is the top tourist attraction in Canada, attracting visitors from all over the world for its beauty and size.
• The Canadian side of Niagara Falls offers a range of attractions, including Queen Victoria Park, Skylon Tower, and the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort.
• Visitors to Niagara Falls can enjoy various activities, such as the Maid of the Mist Boat Tour, Journey Behind the Falls, and the Niagara SkyWheel, depending on their preferences and the season.

Niagara Falls , often dubbed the "Honeymoon Capital of the World," is undeniably the top tourist attraction in Canada. This magnificent natural wonder, straddling the border of Canada and the United States, has fascinated visitors from all over the globe for centuries. It is the second-biggest waterfall in the world and is considered a major contributor to the Canadian economy.

This breathtaking marvel has a significant portion gracing the Canadian landscape. Encompassing both natural beauty and an array of attractions, Niagara Falls is undoubtedly the top tourist attraction in Canada. In this journey, get ready to explore the factors that make Niagara Falls an iconic tourist attraction, the number of things to do and see, the best time to visit this stunning spectacle, and the attractions on the Canadian side that will leave visitors in awe .

Related: Wines And Vines: 10 Best Niagara Wineries To Visit This Fall

What Makes Niagara Falls A Famous Tourist Attraction?

Niagara Falls, a magnificent natural spectacle, fascinates millions of visitors each year . Comprising three distinct waterfalls—the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls—this picture-perfect attraction stands as an example of nature's beauty.

Horseshoe Falls, renowned as the largest and most iconic of the trio, graces the Canadian side of the Niagara River. Its allure lies in its beauty, power, and sheer majesty, continually beckoning tourists for well over a century.

The lush surroundings of Niagara Falls add to its charm. The area is replete with scenic parks and gardens, such as Queen Victoria Park and the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory , offering visitors a serene and scenic experience.

Moreover, Niagara Falls is conveniently located, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. It's just a short drive from major cities in the northeastern United States and Canada. Additionally, several airports in the region provide easy access.

Attractions on the Canadian Side of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is among the top adventurous destinations for 2023 and the Canadian side of Niagara Falls offers a range of attractions that complement the natural wonder:

• Queen Victoria Park : This park is a perfect vantage point for viewing the falls. It's beautifully landscaped and offers well-maintained gardens, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
• Skylon Tower: The Skylon Tower is an observation tower that provides breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding region. It also boasts a revolving dining room, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal with ever-changing views.
• Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort: For those looking for entertainment and excitement, the Fallsview Casino Resort is a top choice. It features a variety of games, restaurants, and a theater for live performances.

Things To Do At Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls offers visitors a wide range of activities to enjoy. Some of the top things to do include:

• Maid of the Mist Boat Tour : The Maid of the Mist Boat Tour is an iconic experience. Visitors don blue rain ponchos and board the boat, which takes them up close to the base of the falls, where they can feel the mist on their faces and witness the raw power of the falls. The boat tour offers a unique perspective of Horseshoe Falls.
• Journey Behind the Falls : For a truly enjoyable experience, the Journey Behind the Falls tour takes visitors through tunnels that lead to observation platforms behind the falls. It's a thrilling experience to stand in the misty caverns and hear the thunderous roar of the water.
• Niagara SkyWheel : For a bird's-eye view of the falls, the Niagara SkyWheel is a must. This giant Ferris wheel takes visitors high above the falls, offering stunning panoramic views of the cascading waters and the surrounding area.
• White Water Walk : The White Water Walk takes visitors along a wooden boardwalk on the edge of the turbulent Niagara River. This experience allows for a close-up view of the class 6 rapids and the incredible natural forces at play.
• Butterfly Conservatory : For a change of pace, the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is a tranquil escape. It's a lush, tropical environment filled with thousands of colorful butterflies. It's a delightful experience for nature lovers and families.
• Clifton Hill : For those seeking entertainment and dining options, Clifton Hill is a vibrant street filled with arcades, restaurants, and attractions. It's a great place to unwind after a day of exploring the falls.

Best Time To Visit Niagara Falls

The best time to visit Niagara Falls depends on individual preferences and interests. Here are some considerations for different seasons:

• Summer: Summer is the peak tourist season at Niagara Falls. The weather is pleasant, and the falls are framed by lush greenery. This is the perfect time for outdoor activities and boat tours. However, it's also the busiest time, so expect larger crowds.
• Fall: Fall offers stunning foliage as the trees surrounding the falls change colors. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the cooler temperatures. The smaller crowds make it a more peaceful experience.
• Winter: Winter provides a unique and magical experience in Niagara Falls . While the falls partially freeze, the ice formations create a breathtaking sight. However, the cold weather may limit some activities.
• Spring: Spring offers a quieter atmosphere with blooming flowers and milder temperatures. It's an excellent time for nature lovers and those who prefer a more peaceful visit. The water flow is often at its highest in spring due to snow melt.

Related: Getting From New York City To Niagara Falls: 16 Things To Know

There really is no bad time to visit Canada's top tourist attraction, as the Falls always deliver a breathtaking experience.

Canada's oldest maple tree is still growing in this small town in Ontario

Latest Videos

In Ontario's Niagara Region, the historic Comfort Maple stands as a proud symbol of Canada's natural heritage.

This majestic sugar maple tree, towering at almost 25 meters tall with a trunk wider than most people can wrap their arms around, has earned its place as the country's oldest and most revered of its kind.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Foss (@iamfoss)

With sprawling branches and weathered bark, the Comfort Maple is a silent witness to centuries of history, resilience, and change.

The story of the Comfort Maple is one of survival against the odds. Once part of a lush hardwood forest, the land around it was cleared long ago for farming. 

Yet, while other trees fell to the axe, the Comfort Maple stood strong, its roots firmly planted in the soil. It has seen generations come and go, weathering storms and seasons with unwavering grace.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rita Meier Pupo (@ritamp18)

The connection between the Comfort Maple and the Comfort family, who settled in the area in 1816, adds another layer to its rich history. Struck by the tree's magnificence, Earl Hampton set aside a piece of land to protect it. 

His sister, Edna Hampton, took the preservation efforts even further by donating the tree and surrounding land to the Niagara Region Conservation Authority in 1961. 

Thanks to their foresight, the Comfort Maple Conservation Area was born, creating a peaceful sanctuary where visitors can admire this ancient marvel up close.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Will Divers (@canadianicons4u)

Estimates suggest the Comfort Maple could be anywhere from 400 to 500 years old, making it an authentic living relic. 

As one of the few remaining "old-growth" trees in the region, the Comfort Maple reminds us of the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Annette ✨ (@beautiful.niagara)

For those visiting the Niagara Region, a trip to see the Comfort Maple is a must. Just a short drive from beautiful St. Catharines and iconic Niagara Falls, the conservation area offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Comfort Maple Conservation Area is located in Pelham, Ontario.

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority .

Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in Travel

Airline launching cheap $200 flights from Toronto to Bermuda

Air Canada just launched new flight pass to Hong Kong and here's how it works

High-speed 200km/h train from Toronto to Montreal could begin operating by 2030s

New provincial park in Ontario will have hundreds of campsites and hiking trails

Toronto-bound flight forced to land in Norway after medical emergency onboard

Canada's 'most beautiful village' is located in Ontario

This small town in Ontario has an extraterrestrial history

This provincial park in Ontario is a hidden gem for water adventures

Niagara Falls is going big for the 2024 total solar eclipse: See what the park has planned

Niagara Falls may be one of the best places to be on the planet for the upcoming total solar eclipse , offering the public a unique opportunity to not only witness but learn more about the once-in-a-lifetime celestial event on April 8. 

The state park is going all out for the total solar eclipse , scheduling a week of “free and open-to-the-public programming” leading up to the big day, according to a news release by Niagara Falls USA. 

The solar eclipse is set to chart a 115-mile-wide path of totality , passing over portions of Mexico, the United States and Canada. 

Hundreds of cities, including Niagara Falls, N.Y., and smaller towns in 13 states across the country, lie along the path, providing a glimpse of a spectacular sight not often seen, Michael Zeiler, an eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com previously told USA TODAY.

The solar eclipse is set to last nearly four minutes in Niagara Falls, making the viewing period significantly longer than the mere seconds predicted for other cities and towns along the path of totality. 

Chance of 'devil comet' on same day as total eclipse

As if the solar eclipse won't be enough, there's a small chance that a certain horned "devil comet" may make an appearance that same day as it makes its closest orbital approach to Earth later in the month, USA TODAY reported. 

"We expect the eclipse to bring the largest influx of visitors we’ve ever seen to Niagara Falls USA,” according to John Percy, president and CEO of Destination Niagara USA.  

“We are thrilled to support programming that showcases attractions and locations throughout Niagara County that will enhance the overall experience for these travelers,” Percy said in a statement.

Niagara Falls hosts NASA, fireworks planned for eclipse festivity

A range of eclipse-related activities, including planetarium shows, a cosmic paint night and programming led by NASA astronauts, will be offered at “various points of interest throughout the city” from Thursday, April 4 to Monday, April 8, according to Niagara Falls USA.

Events and activities like the ones listed above will take place all over the city, across different venues like Niagara Falls State Park, Niagara Falls Culinary Institute, Niagara Falls Public Libraries and the Niagara Aerospace Museum.

There will also be a “spectacular fireworks display” on Monday night sponsored by Wegmans to cap off the week of eclipse-related activities. 

The “dazzling show” is set to take place at 8:30 p.m. on Old Falls Street in downtown Niagara Falls, providing a “fitting conclusion to a day filled with excitement and wonder.” 

Niagara Falls solar eclipse event schedule, other important details

Before you pack up the car vehicle and head to Niagara Falls State Park with your family for an epic week of solar eclipse-related activities, there are a couple things you should know.

There will be plenty of places around Niagara County to get a good view of the eclipse, including a number of town and state parks, according to the Niagara Falls State Park website.

The best place to catch a glimpse at Niagara Falls State Park is any of the main viewing areas like Terrapin Point, Prospect Point, and Luna Island. 

Maid of the Mist boat tour and the Cave of the Winds , two of the most recognized state park attractions, will be open and operating on April 8, as well as throughout the weekend leading up to the eclipse, the park says. 

Pricing and hours, though, for the two attractions will vary, find out more here and here.

Here’s list of some of the solar eclipse events offered, you can find more events here.

• Planetarium Shows: April 4, 5, 8
• NASA Eclipse Activities at the Niagara Falls Public Library (LaSalle Branch): April 4, 5
• NASA Eclipse Activities at the Niagara Falls Public Library (Main Library): April 4, 5, 6
• NASA Eclipse Activities at Niagara Aerospace Museum: April 4, 5, 6 and 7
• Eclipse in Art at Niagara County Community College: April 
• Space-Themed music performance at Niagara County Community College Fine Arts Auditorium F-155: April 4
• Cosmic Paint Night at Becker Farms & Vizcarra Vineyards: April 4 
• NASA Mission Design Engineer Talk at Niagara Falls Culinary Institute: April 5 
• Galaxy Cookie Decorating at Niagara Falls Culinary Institute: April 5,6
• Psychological/Social Effects of Eclipse at Niagara County Community College: April 5
• Solar Stroll at the Falls at Niagara Falls State Park: April 5, 6, 7
• Daredevils of Niagara Walking Tours: Eclipse Edition at Oakwood Cemetery: April 5, 6, 7 and 9
• Live Show with Little Mountain Band at Becker Farms & Vizcarra Vineyards: April 5
• Phantoms of the Opera Hall: An Eclipse Event at Lewiston Opera Hall: April 5-7
• SEA the Eclipse at Aquarium of Niagara: April 6-8
• Total Flow Black Light Yoga at Daredevil Records: April 6

Here’s How The Niagara Falls Region Is Readying For An Influx Of Eclipse Tourists

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Niagara Falls could be at the center of the solar eclipse frenzy on April 8—and the region is bracing itself with countless marketing campaigns, a state of emergency declaration, school closures and dozens of scheduled events throughout the region.

Niagara Falls are seen from Niagara Falls, N.Y., Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2019. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

In Canada, Niagara Region chair Jim Bradley “proactively” declared a state of emergency Thursday in anticipation of “thousands of visitors” coming to the region for the April 8 event.

Bradley said a declaration “strengthens the tools” the Region has to “safeguard the health and safety of residents and visitors and protect our critical infrastructure in any scenario that might arise.”

Officials in the city of Niagara Falls, Ontario, have said they expect up to a million visitors on April 8, compared to the typical 14 million visitors who travel there over the course of the year just to see the famous waterfalls, according to Reuters, while a tourism group for the City of Niagara Falls in the U.S. says it’s planning a fireworks display and various programming with NASA in anticipation of the “largest influx of visitors” the city has ever had.

Dozens of events and promotions are planned throughout the Buffalo Niagara area in the U.S., from local business viewing parties , to breweries crafting specialty beers , to larger events like a three-hour viewing party at the Buffalo Bills’ Highmark Stadium —sponsored by an eye doctor practice.

Dozens of school districts across the Buffalo Niagara eight-county region have already closed schools for the day—the region’s largest, Buffalo Public Schools, cited the timing of the eclipse with student dismissal “and increased tourism which may impact traffic and roadways.”

Local officials are urging residents to prepare for traffic delays if going out to see the eclipse, and noting “the easiest way to see the eclipse is from your home.”

$6,000. That’s how much one Buffalo-area Airbnb was charging for two nights for the eclipse, according to the Buffalo News. A search of prices for one night from April 8-9 at several area hotels showed prices of up to $800 for a one-bed hotel room. Airbnb told local television station WKBW in Buffalo that New York was the “most booked” state for the eclipse.

What To Watch For

The start of the eclipse is set to reach Niagara Falls at 2:04 p.m. on April 8, and the sun will be fully eclipsed for about three minutes, starting at 3:18 p.m.For those viewing in person, it remains an open question whether the skies will stay clear and allow for favorable eclipse viewing, with some forecasts calling for clouds—though experts warn predicting cloud cover for a specific area 10 days out is an extremely low-confidence forecast.

Key Background

The eclipse will be visible throughout the entire U.S., but the path of totality follows a narrow band from Texas up to the Northeast NASA is broadcasting the event live from several key areas along the path, including Niagara Falls. There will not be another solar eclipse visible from the contiguous U.S. until 2044, according to NASA.

Further Reading

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Niagara Falls Visitor Guide

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• March Madness
• AP Top 25 Poll
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Good Friday

Canada’s Niagara region declares a state of emergency to prepare for an influx of eclipse viewers

Tourists on the American side of Niagara Falls take photos in Niagara Falls, N.Y. on Friday, March 29, 2024. Ontario’s Niagara Region has declared a state of emergency as it readies to welcome up to a million visitors for the solar eclipse on April 8. (Carlos Osorio/The Canadian Press via AP)

A view of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, is shown on Friday, March 29, 2024 seen from Niagara Falls, N.Y. Ontario’s Niagara Region has declared a state of emergency as it readies to welcome up to a million visitors for the solar eclipse on April 8. (Carlos Osorio/The Canadian Press via AP)

• Copy Link copied

NIAGARA FALLS, Ontario (AP) — Ontario’s Niagara Region has declared a state of emergency as it prepares to welcome up to a million visitors for the solar eclipse in early April.

The total solar eclipse on April 8 will be the first to touch the province since 1979, and Niagara Falls was declared by National Geographic to be one of the best places to see it.

The city is in the path of totality, where the moon will entirely block the sun’s rays for a few minutes. Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati said earlier in March that he expects the most visitors his city has ever seen in a single day.

The regional municipality of Niagara is proactively invoking a state of emergency to prepare for the event. The declaration announced Thursday sets in motion some additional planning tools to prepare for the day, which could involve major traffic jams, heavier demands on emergency services and cell phone network overloads.

The eclipse will reach Mexico’s Pacific coast in the morning, cut diagonally across the United States from Texas to Maine, and exit in eastern Canada by late afternoon. Most of the rest of the continent will see a partial eclipse.