How Do I Plan My Day At Niagara Falls?
Niagara Falls, one of Canada’s most visited destinations, is full of beauty and adventure. With new attractions opening every year there’s always something to do in Niagara Falls!
Moreover, It is a must-see for anyone who visits. This incredible spectacle has been attracting tourists and honeymooners alike since the early 1800s. It makes Niagara Falls an impressive landmark without comparison! Most importantly, Since Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother celebrated his honeymoon here more than 200 years ago, this place has been crowded with tourists even after all these years which makes it one of most the impressive places on earth. In addition to this, people visit from all over for vacation purposes or business deals. Niagara Falls is known as the honeymoon capital of the world.
There are so many things you can see within a day; it would be worth spending two or three days exploring everything this destination has to offer. Currently where people visit from all over for vacation purposes, business deals they also find some attraction opens up ever year like casinos etc.
To plan your trip to Niagara Falls, we have provided a collection of travel resources and destination information below. Use this as you begin your adventure exploring the area!
If you are going to Niagara Falls for the First Time
If you’re going for your first time to Niagara Falls, be aware that this beautiful sight is located on the bank of a river called Niagara River which separates Canada from America. Both sides have their own falls – the American side has Bridal Veil and American Falls while the Canadian side contains Horseshoe Fall among others.
Besides its majestic beauty, Niagara Falls has an interesting history. The first state park in the United States opened here and changed how Buffalo lit up at night just a year later when Nikola Tesla unveiled his direct current (DC) system. Moreover, in 1895, Niagara Falls became North America’s first state park and the world’s largest hydroelectric power station opened a year later.
If you are thinking of travelling to Niagara Falls, this article will include information about the best things to do to make your visit as fulfilling and exciting as possible.
WHERE ARE NIAGARA FALLS?
The Niagara River is a powerful force that has helped shape the geography of Canada and New York. If you’re not sure where this wonderland-like place called “Niagara Falls” exists, it can be found within between Ontario to the north along with NY State down south near Buffalo about 20 miles away. From US soil our closest city would have been Rochester which is around 400 miles (or 7 hrs.) drive away!
If you’re looking to take a trip up north, Niagara Falls is the perfect destination. Over 90 miles away from Toronto and with natural beauty that will leave your heart in awe – it’s no wonder people come here every day of the summer vacation season!
AMERICAN SIDE VS. CANADIAN SIDE – WHICH SIDE IS BETTER
If you only have a day to visit Niagara Falls, don’t worry. There are plenty of things that can be done on both sides of the American and Canadian falls for every taste imaginable!
In the upcoming paragraphs, I will include the highlights of both sides.
Remember to bring your passport and/or visa if you plan on crossing the border.
The best way to enjoy all the attractions at Niagara Falls is with a Full day trip. This will give you plenty of time in and out exploring this natural wonder, which also allows for great photo opportunities!
A full-day tour offers visitors an opportunity to see everything there is from every angle—and who doesn’t want that? To book your full-day tour with Toniagara Click here
THE CANADIAN SIDE OF NIAGARA FALLS
A Niagara Falls tour of the Canadian side is a great way to experience this famous natural wonder. Not only will you get an up-close look at most tourist attractions, but it’s also easier on your wallet and much more relaxing! if you’re looking for the best views of the most famous fall in North America, The Canadian side of Niagara Falls is the one you must visit.
Book your dream vacation and enjoy the many attractions that Canada has to offer! Well, the list of all-inclusive tours you can book at Niagara falls is endless. Here are the main and most visited attractions of Niagara Falls-
1. Hornblower (Niagara City Cruises)
The Hornblower is an oldie but a goody. It has been operating since 1846 shuttling people across to the United States border. In 1885 they started running as tourist attractions to take passengers up close and personal with Niagara Falls. Further, the boat goes right inside of it all while water surrounds you like thundering waves. You can add this to your things to do and see in the Niagara Falls Bucket list.
The former Maid of the Mist used to be only for crossing over into Canada/US borders; however, after becoming more profitable (1885), tourists were given tours that went very near falls’ edge-almost getting wet! Besides, passengers are surrounded by surging waters from above & below feeling its power and thrill. Get up close to Niagara Falls and feel the thunder at Hornblower Tour. Enjoy stunning views of the Niagara Gorge, American, and Bridal Veil Falls. Come face-to-face with the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls. You can add this tour into your bucket list while Planning Your Trip To Niagara Falls.
To Book Your Tour Click Here.
2. Helicopter Tour
Helicopter tours offer you the chance to see Niagara Falls from above.
If you want to explore Niagara Falls, a helicopter tour is arguably the most thrilling way of doing so. It’s certainly an experience that will stay with us forever.
Niagara Helicopters offers two main types: scenic flights and ice bridge sightseeing excursions which take off once a day from 8 am. January through March (and daily during peak season). Furthermore, this amazing adventure allows guests in more than 250 prominent observation decks on both sides of the border near one can enjoy breathtaking views. You can add this tour into your bucket list while Planning Your Trip To Niagara Falls. Most importantly, for those who are looking for something different this winter or just have some spare time before spring arrives, then perhaps taking flight over America’s highest waterfalls should be considered as your next vacation. Also, to book your helicopter tour click here.
3. Journey Behind The Falls
Journey behind the falls is an amazing experience at Niagara Falls! You can get up close and personal with all that mother nature has to offer on our never-ending cataracts flowing over six million litres per second during peak times.
In the first place to get the full experience of Niagara, you’ll need to first descend 125 feet below ground and explore 130-year old tunnels through bedrock. Moreover, you will feel the thunderous vibration from Horseshoe Falls long before seeing it; however, don’t forget about viewing portals cut into the rock that offers a once in lifetime view at one-fifth of earth’s fresh water crashing down in front of you!
4. Zipline Niagara Falls
The Zipline to the Falls at Grand View Marketplace is a breathtaking experience, soaring past an American waterfall and landing on top of a Canadian Horseshoe falls observation deck.
The ziplining journey takes you 670 meters (2200 feet) into the gorge towards Canada’s grandest attraction-Canadian Horseshoe Falls. This can also be added to your Things to do and see in the Niagara Falls Bucket list. The ride is like no other as it soars over America’s Niagara River Gorge with unparalleled views of both sides of this natural wonderland before finally descending onto our world-famous viewing platform overlooking Spectacular Lake Ontario – one that normally requires hours or days order to access by car!
5. Niagara Sky Wheel
Soar 175-feet above Niagara Falls for the view of a lifetime! The Niagara SkyWheel gives riders an unforgettable panoramic view of this spectacular natural wonder from the vantage of climate-controlled gondolas. Soak in awe as you see everything year-round, day and night in total comfort.
6. Whirlpool Jetboat
Just a short 10-minute drive up the Niagara Parkway from Niagra Falls, The Whirlpool Jetboat tour is five-star pure adrenaline. You’ve got to make this trip if you want some serious excitement in your life! Open or closed jetboats – it’s totally up to you as to whether or not you get wet on this ride. I prefer dry so that I can really take in all of the beauty surrounding me and truly appreciate how majestic nature is around these parts!
The scenery during my whirlybird boat experience was absolutely breathtaking, with lush greenery lining both sides of the river for miles upon miles along our path upstream before we hit those Class 6 rapids at speeds reaching 60mph within seconds after takeoff.
7. Whirlpool Aero Car
The Whirlpool Aero Car provides a spectacular view of the world-famous Niagara Falls. You can enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience from your antique cable car as it soars high above the racing Niagara River, where its passengers will be transported through air to witness one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena – The Natural Wheel!
8. Niagara Parks
The Niagara Region is a natural wonderland, with many heritage sites and scenic parks. The Niagara Parks Commission maintains these attractions for tourists to enjoy. Visitors can participate in activities such as tours throughout the region’s various hubs of activity – from wineries to casinos! You must add this beautiful attraction to your things to do at Niagara Falls bucket list.
As you explore all of Niagara Parks located in Niagara Falls, Ontario Canada from the lower observation deck at the Canadian Horseshoe Falls to incredible hiking trails and breathtaking waterfalls.
9. Butterfly Conservatory
Step inside the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatory in North America and explore a tropical garden oasis at Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory. Admire over 2,000 vibrantly coloured butterflies fluttering freely as you walk around 180 metres of pathways adorned with lush vegetation or trickling waterfalls that reach up to seven feet tall. Your self-guided walking tour starts by viewing an informative video presentation where live butterflies will do flyby demonstrations on your screen so you can get acquainted before embarking into their world!
10. White Water Walk
Feel the thrill of being at the river’s edge!
White Water Walk offers a first-hand lesson in all that is raw and powerful about Niagara River rapids. Moreover, the roar of these Class 6 whitewater rapids will provide you with an amazing ambiance as you walk among many platforms overlooking them, taking your breath away every time they’re sighted. You’ll be feeling like one lucky person on this quarter-mile boardwalk!
11. Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake is also home to the Shaw Festival Theatre, Canada’s second-largest producing theatre. Moreover, Performances run from May through December at three theatres and an outdoor theatre with wheelchair seating available.
One of the best ways to experience Niagara-on-the Lake is by carriage. Explore Queen Street with its colonial buildings and old-time candy shop while visiting one of the many historical sites in this historic town on the south shore of Lake Ontario.
12. wineries
Niagara Ontario Canada is becoming famous for its wines. Whether you are looking for wineries in the Niagara Region or a specific winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, people around the world should visit this beautiful country to escape to enjoy some food and drink. Twenty-five vineyards dot the landscape just 15 to 20 minutes outside of Niagara Falls, Canada in quiet and charming Niagra on The Lake. You can add this winery tour to your bucket list while Planning Your Trip To Niagara Falls.As well as being home to about 50 different grapes vines throughout all of the wine regions along shores at Lakeside Avenue Ontario has over 25 miles (40 kilometres). Discover best-tasting experiences by following Wine Route.
13. Queen Victoria Park
Surrounded by the Niagara River Great Gorge and the Fallsview moraine, this blooming Queen Victoria Park is a great place to relax. There are flowers everywhere! Most Importantly, it’s also fun taking in views of both American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. You can see these both from different vantage points throughout the park.
14. Table Rock Centre
Table Rock Centre at Niagara Falls has been at the heart of the traveller’s experience for decades. In the first place just for you, they have transformed this incredible historical building and Niagara Parks invites all to come in! As well as, bright and spacious when one enters, let their eyes wander as they witness brand-new architectural features fast-casual food offerings at Table Rock Market on two levels of shopping with lots more goodies that haven’t yet even opened.
In addition, Located in the heart of Table Rock Centre, this eatery is not only a feast for your eyes but also an incredible dining experience Open with locally sourced and internationally inspired menu items. You will enjoy every bite while taking in Niagara Falls as your backdrop. To provide accessible access to all areas we offer wheelchair rentals during summer months at our Welcome Centre which are just across the street from where paid parking can be found right next door at The Falls Parking lot.
Remember to maintain a distance of 2m 6ft from others.
12. Niagara’s Fury
Step inside and feel the power of Mother Nature in this multi-sensory stimulation on Niagara Falls. The temperature will drop, mist and snowfall all around you while stunning visuals surround your vision along the mighty Niagara River. Hang on tight as a trembling floor makes it seem like nature herself is carrying out her duty to create such an amazing attraction! This family-friendly experience creates a perfect introduction to any adventure at Niagara falls.
13. Niagara Parks Power Station
The Niagara Parks Power Station is the newest landmark attraction for visitors. The interior of the station has been preserved with new exhibits for visitors. They can explore while enjoying new guest amenities or looking out over the falls from one of many outdoor viewing areas. The extraordinary sound and light experience brings the building to life through state-of-the-art projection mapping technology. The rich colours, sounds of nature, and interactive features encourage visitors to explore every corner for more surprises!
Known for its amusement park-like qualities, Niagara Falls is not only the perfect destination to take in natural beauty but also offers many unique attractions. From an array of entertainment venues and leisurely outdoor spaces like botanical gardens or museums. These provide an ideal setting catered specifically towards visitors’ needs; it’s no wonder so many tourists rave about this place!
Ontario has some of the best waterfalls in all of Canada. You can enjoy them while staying at a nearby hotel or casino. The falls provide an awe-inspiring background for your vacation photos!
The American side of Niagara Falls
For those who want more outdoor recreation and nature activities, a trip to Niagara Falls U.S side won’t disappoint. The natural beauty and endless opportunities for fun that Niagara Falls has to offer will blow you away.
If you want to experience the thrill of Niagara Falls from the US side, there are a few iconic spots that should not be missed.
1. The waters of Terrapin Point at Goat Island
For one of the best views in Niagara Falls, head to Terrapin Point Lookout on Goat Island. You’ll get great shots of both Canadian Horseshoe falls and Gorge with your feet planted firmly in American water territory!
Goat Island is an island on the Niagara River that you have to cross with a bridge. Spend some time there, and if possible take in all its natural beauty by taking one of many walking trails or checking out Cave-of-the Winds which will be mentioned later!
2. BOAT TOUR ON THE AMERICAN SIDE (Maid Of The Mist)
The Maid of the Mist takes passengers from America’s Hornblower. After that, the boat has been ferrying people across the Niagara River for nearly two centuries and dates back to 1846. Accordingly, it is a 20-minute ride that will take you right next to the heart of Horseshoe Falls, one of many exciting things in Niagara falls worth seeing while visiting there! It’s one of the most exciting things to do in Niagara Falls.
12. Cave of the Winds
The Cave of the Winds trip takes you closer to Niagara Falls than you thought possible. Furthermore, you ride an elevator 175 feet deep into the waters and then, clad in a bright yellow poncho with special footwear provided by your tour guide, stand 20 ft from Bridal Veil falls soaking wet as it is just below where Hurricane Deck stands.
AMERICAN FALLS
The American Falls are a truly magnificent sight, ranking among the tallest waterfalls in North America. They’re also impressive from the Canadian side of Niagara falls due to their height that nearly reaches 100 feet! The best place you can see them is at Prospect Point with its clear view on both U.S and Bridal Veil sides; however, Luna Island offers something special between these two giants as well–something uniquely yours just for being there (and it’s not small).
Old Fort Niagara
The beauty of Old Fort Niagara is not to be missed. It’s located in Youngstown, where the Niagara River flows into Lake Ontario and provides an excellent view for travellers who want a break from their day-to-day lives on either side. If you’re feeling adventurous enough try booking this tour which includes an optional Maid of The Mist ride
It only takes 20 minutes by car or boat – whichever suits your needs best!
WHICH IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT NIAGARA FALLS
Niagara Falls is a beautiful place that you can see at any time of year. You may want to visit this attraction more during certain seasons because some areas in the park are inaccessible or closed off when other parts remain open for public use regardless if it’s winter, springtime or fall; there really isn’t an “ideal” season here since all four seasons have something special about them!
For example, all the tourist attractions are open in summer but it’s also a very crowded time to visit and it can get pretty hot. You’ll have to book your accommodation and tour tickets months ahead of time because even then they will be expensive!
Moreover, in winter when it’s cooler and more peaceful you can enjoy ice-skating at night or go hiking through nature trails without having any crowds around you!
Visiting in the spring has its benefits. You get a lower price for your hotel and you can see some tourist attractions that aren’t as crowded when it’s not summertime yet! While visiting this time of year does have more unpredictable weather. We were lucky enough to experience perfect conditions while travelling here last month. Even though there are always risks no matter what day or season one visits.
Fall is the perfect time to visit Niagara Falls if you’re looking for some peace. There aren’t as many tourists, so it’s easy enough just sit back with your loved ones in one of their gorgeous surroundings while enjoying nature at its finest!
PARKING GUIDE AT NIAGARA FALLS
Parking in Niagara Falls, Ontario can be a tricky endeavour. Whether you Search overnight spaces, daytime parking for your car or park as part of a large group’s visit, there’s no need to worry we will help with a guide to parking in Niagara Falls. We have some pointers to help guide you through.
Please follow all public health guidelines to stop the spread of COVID-19. The requirement is to maintain a physical distance of 2m/6ft at all times (indoor and outdoor).
Here is Your Guide To Parking In Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, Ontario has visitors from around the world who are eager to see its natural beauty and stunning waterfalls. The city is packed with tourists, hotels, restaurants, guests and shops so finding a place to park your car is limited for an overnight stay. It’s best if you call ahead of time or speak directly with those responsible for parking arrangements. Where you’re staying because there may not be any available spaces across the whole city area.
To get a piece of full information about the parking guide at Niagara Falls clicks here. This article includes all the information regarding Parking places at Niagara Falls.
IS NIAGARA FALLS WORTH VISITING?
For those still wondering if a visit to Niagara Falls is worth it, I would say without hesitation that yes! Niagara Falls is a must-see for every traveller. It’s an awe-inspiring natural wonder, and you can enjoy it without breaking your budget!
Niagara Falls, Canada is a must-see for those who love natural wonders. The best time to visit this beautiful area is in summer when the crowds are at their lowest. Moreover, you can take everything your heart desires without any worry about getting lost or pushed around by people trying to get on every ride quickly before it’s too late!
Now you have all the information you need to start planning your trip to Niagara Falls. Take the hassle out of planning your tour to Niagara Falls this year by booking now. You must see this place at least once in your lifetime.
If you have any questions about tours and bookings please visit ToNiagara
You’ll enjoy your visit to the Falls, but don’t forget that you need a good raincoat!
you’re going to Niagara? Make sure it’s suitable for inclement weather and bring an umbrella or jacket. Have a fun safe travels!”
Updated December 12, 2023.
Thanks for reading this blog. Check out more blogs like this one here: www.toniagara.com/blog/
