Nearly 14 million people visit the Niagara Falls every year for a once in a lifetime experience. Other than the natural wonder of the Falls themselves, there are so many year-round attractions and special events that are organized at the Niagara Falls that it becomes difficult to fit all of them into a travel itinerary.
HOW TO PLAN A VISIT TO NIAGARA
1. Decide upon dates during which to visit: Though the Falls are open throughout the year, the best season to visit Niagara would be from spring to the fall season.
2. Make reservations for accommodations: There are hotels, bed and breakfast inns, campsites and hostels suitable for every budget.
Hotels located in the Clifton Hill area provide easy access to Niagara Falls promenade and are affordably priced.
3. Travel to Niagara: Niagara Falls is easily accessible via international airports, trains and by road. If you are traveling from Toronto to Niagara Falls, there are various bus tour operators. You can book a day, evening private, airplane or helicopter tour once you have landed at your hotel or through our ToNiagara website.
4. Travel documents:
- If you are not a Canadian resident, you would need a valid visa in order to travel to Canada. See visa requirements here.
- If you are a resident of a visa exempt country, you would need an Electronic Travel Authorization to travel to Canada.
- US citizen or green card holders can visit without a visa but a passport is required. For other document requirements, visit here.
A DAY TRIP TO NIAGARA
If you only have one day to spend in Niagara Falls, the best way to see all the major attractions is with a Niagara Falls Day Tour. Taking a day tour will insure you see all the popular attraction, plus you will not have to worry about parking and complicated directions.
Other places than you can visit (depending on the time you have to spare) are:
1. Journey Behind the Falls: Travel down a network of tunnels and reach the base of the Horseshoe Falls. The view from the observation deck at the foot of the Falls is breathtaking.
2. White water rapids: This consists of a walk along the white water rapids of the Niagara River. You are a witness to the raw power of the river from close quarters.
3. Botanical Gardens: It is a short drive north of the Niagara Falls and consists of 40 hectares of beautifully maintained gardens. The famous Butterfly Conservatory is also located here.
4. Whirlpool Aero Car: The Whirlpool Aero Car or Spanish Aero Car is a cable car located in Niagara Falls, Ontario that transports passengers over a section of the Niagara River referred to as the Niagara Whirlpool. The system was designed by Spanish engineer Leonardo Torres Quevedo and has been upgraded several times since 1916.
5. Hornblower Niagara Cruise: State-of-the art catamaran boats take you out on the Niagara River all the way to the base of the Falls. The cruise generally operates daily from April 1 to November 30.
6. Niagara Skywheel: Enjoy a panoramic view of the Falls during the day and illuminated fall at night in this temperature controlled gondola.
TWO-DAY TRIP TO NIAGARA
For people taking two-day Niagara Falls trip, purchasing the Niagara Falls Adventure Pass Classic would be a good idea. One can enjoy the following sights and attractions:
1. A Hornblower boat cruise, which takes you past the American and Bridal Veil Falls and right up to the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
2. Floral clock: This unique floral clock happens to be a very popular stop on the Niagara Parkway. The planted surface is maintained by the park’s staff, while the clock mechanism is maintained by Ontario Hydro.
3. Botanical Gardens: The gardens are a short drive north of the Niagara Falls and consist of 40 hectares of beautifully maintained gardens. The famous Butterfly Conservatory is also located here.
4. Whirlpool Aero Car: The Whirlpool Aero Car or Spanish Aero Car is a cable car located in Niagara Falls, Ontario that transports passengers over a section of the Niagara River referred to as the Niagara Whirlpool. The system was designed by Spanish engineer Leonardo Torres Quevedo and has been upgraded several times since 1916.
5. Skylon Tower: It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Canada. Skylon Tower is one of the most iconic Niagara Falls attractions, reaching 775 feet above the Niagara gorge and overlooking both the Canadian and American Falls.
6. Queen Victoria Park: The park has a unique collection of plants and immaculately manicured gardens. You can see thousands of blooming daffodils if you visit in the spring.
7. Dufferin Islands: Dufferin Islands are a group of scenic man-made islands where wooden footbridges connect the small, secluded islands.
8. Niagara Skywheel: Enjoy a panoramic view of the Falls during the day and illuminated fall at night in this temperature controlled gondola.
9. Book a helicopter tour: Get a bird’s eye view of all the 3 Falls and a few other sights by booking a helicopter ride through toniagara.com. It is recommended that you make reservations in advance. For details regarding prices and hours of operation, please click here.
You can pick and choose other activities suited to your interests.
FAMILY VACATION
If you are going to Niagara Falls with your family for a vacation, it is good to find attractions that will be fun for the whole family.
1. Niagara Falls: The Niagara Parkway runs along the River Niagara from the town of Fort Erie, Ontario to Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Take a walk along the Niagara River promenade for stunning views of the Falls. Children are sure to enjoy a helicopter ride, so book a helicopter ride out to the Falls if your budget permits it.
2. Hornblower boat cruise: The boat cruise is taken by almost everyone who visits the Falls. There is the daylight cruise and the nighttime cruise which allows you to see the Falls illumination/Niagara fireworks. If you are keen on going on this ride, make sure to check their schedule before planning your trip (generally operates from April to November).
3. Floral clock: This unique floral is a very popular stop on the Niagara Parkway. The planted surface is maintained by the Niagara Parks staff and the clock mechanism is maintained by Ontario Hydro. The flower carpeted surface is changed twice a year.
4. Botanical Gardens: The gardens are a short drive north of the Niagara Falls and consist of 40 hectares of beautifully maintained gardens. The famous Butterfly Conservatory is also located here.
5. Whirlpool Aero Car: The Whirlpool Aero Car or Spanish Aero Car is a cable car located in Niagara Falls, Ontario that transports passengers over a section of the Niagara River referred to as the Niagara Whirlpool. This attraction has been upgraded several times since 1916.
6. Skylon Tower: It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Canada. Skylon Tower is one of the most iconic Niagara Falls attractions, soaring 775 feet above the Niagara gorge and overlooking both the Canadian and American Falls.
7. Queen Victoria Park: The park has a unique collection of plants and immaculately manicured gardens. You can see thousands of blooming daffodils if you visit in the spring.
8. Niagara Skywheel: Enjoy a panoramic view of the Falls during the day and illuminated fall at night from this giant Ferris wheel.
9. Waterparks: Niagara Falls offers a number of waterparks that are sure to be a hit with children. The Fallsview Indoor Park occupies an area of 3 acres and is North America’s largest indoor waterpark. You can also visit the Waves Indoor Park, which maintains year-round tropical temperatures.
10. Brock’s monument: Brock’s Monument National Historic Site towers over picturesque Queenston Heights, Ontario. The monument measures 56 metres (185 feet) in height and is the largest monument of its kind in Canada. Situated on the site of the Battle of Queenston Heights where British and American soldiers struggled for the destiny of two nations, Brock’s Monument is the final resting place of Major General Sir Isaac Brock and his Aide-de-Camp Lieutenant Colonel John MacDonnell.
Depending on the size of your family, you can book tour packages that will take you to the most frequented sights or you can go on a tour customized to your needs. For further details, click here.
OTHER SITES TO SEE WHILE IN NIAGARA
HISTORICAL SITES
Canada played a very important role as the last stop on the Underground Railroad. Learn more about the nation’s history by visiting some of the heritage sites.
Old Fort Erie: The Fort played an important role in the War of 1812. Old Fort Erie is located on the southern edge of the Town of Fort Erie, Ontario, directly across the Niagara River. Each year, during the second weekend of August, hundreds of historical re-enactment enthusiasts come together to reenact the siege of Fort Erie.
Mackenzie Printery: Located in the quaint village of Queenston, the Mackenzie Printery is the restored home of publisher, rebellion leader, and Toronto’s first mayor, William Lyon Mackenzie. It offers visitors a hands-on experience with a working linotype and 8 operating heritage presses.
McFarland House: This Georgian-style manor dates back to the year 1800 and was first built and owned by John McFarland, an engineer with the British Navy. Costumed interpreters provide guided tours of this historic home throughout the day and host several special events during the holiday season. Guests can enjoy delicate baked desserts and afternoon tea.
Laura Secord Homestead: Laura Ingersoll Secord was a heroine of the War of 1812. Witness where her famous hike to warn the British soldiers began. It is the restored residence of Laura Secord. Guided tours are provided by costumed interpreters.
Battlefield of Chippewa: The Niagara Campaign in 1814 was the longest and costliest military operation of the War of 1812. Visit the preserved 121 hectares of battlefield.
Brock’s Monument: It is located in Queenston Heights Park and is the highlight of the park with its imposing 56-metre column dedicated to Major General Sir Isaac Brock, a Canadian icon from the War of 1812.
Fort George: A British Fort which played a key role in the struggle for the Niagara Frontier during the War of 1812. It is located at Niagara-on-the-Lake. Fort George has been restored to its state on the eve of the war. Costumed staff recreate lifestyles and activities of the period.
NATURE AND GARDENS
Niagara Falls, Canada offers a number of picturesque parks and gardens that will leave you mesmerized. Take some time out to enjoy nature at its pristine best.
Botanical Gardens: Established in 1936, the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens presents visitors with 99 acres of beautifully maintained gardens. Its world-famous rose garden features over 2,400 roses. This section of the parkland is also home to the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture.
Butterfly Conservatory: Located on the grounds of the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Conservatory is a tropical paradise full of lush vegetation, trickling waterfalls and thousands of vibrantly coloured butterflies. Over 2,000 butterflies, made up of 45 different species, call this beautiful space home.
The Floral Clock: This is a popular stop on the Niagara Parkway and is one of the most photographed sights. The building of the Floral Clock was initiated by the chairman of Ontario Hydro in 1950. Today, it is maintained by Niagara Parks, though the clock is still maintained by Ontario Hydro.
Floral Showhouse: It is just a short walk south from Niagara Falls and Table Rock Centre. Some of the rarest and largest collections of orchids, flowers, and other tropical plant species are on display throughout the year. Eight floral shows are put up every year that reflect the changing seasons. For further information, please visit here.
Bird Kingdom: Bird Kingdom is an aviary in the tourist district of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. It is just a 5-minute walk from Niagara Falls and is open all year. Opened in May 2003, it is the largest free flying indoor aviary in the world.
Marineland: This is a themed amusement park and zoo for both marine and land animals in the city of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. Opened in 1961, the park has roller coasters and a triple tower ride. There are marine shows and exhibits of dolphins, walruses, sea lions, an orca, and beluga whales. The park also keeps bears, deer and other land animals. The park is seasonal to check the schedule before visiting.
Niagara Glen Nature Centre: The trails through the glen overlook the Niagara River and offer a spectacular view of the Niagara River Whirlpool.
RIDES ON THE FALLS
Zipline to the Falls: The MistRider Zipline to the Falls at Grand View Marketplace takes you on a breathtaking ride into the gorge, towards the base of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. You will travel down 2,200 feet, soaring past the American Falls and landing atop the Falls observation deck at the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
Niagara Skywheel: The 175-foot Ferris wheel is located in the middle of Clifton Hill area. It gives an amazing view of the Falls and other landmarks.
Whirlpool Aero Car: Also called the Spanish Aero Car, this cable car service transports passengers over the Niagara Whirlpool.
MUSEUMS
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum: Located in the heart of Niagara Falls on Clifton Hill since 1963, the always growing Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Museum still holds onto its reputation as Niagara’s best museum. You’ll find over 500 mind-boggling displays of rare and amusing oddities. Here, you’ll see some of the most incredible customs, unusual hobbies, and weirdest artifacts from around the world.
Niagara Daredevil Exhibit: It is conveniently located next to the Niagara IMAX Theatre. It houses the only collection of the original daredevil barrels.
Niagara Falls Museum: It is most notable for being the oldest museum in Canada. It is dedicated to preserving the history of Niagara Falls City and the surrounding areas.
Guinness World Record Museum: Located on Clifton Hill, it houses displays, photographs and interactive exhibits of various world records
St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canal Centre: The Welland Canal is a ship canal connecting Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. The Welland Canals Centre’s elevated observation platform lets visitors see ships from around the world as they navigate Lock 3 on their way through the St. Lawrence Seaway System. The centre also provides opportunities to picnic in its park or enjoy the playground with your family. The small museum houses exhibits on local history and the canals.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS
Greg Frewin Theatre: This modern theatre with dinner service option hosts a Las Vegas-style magic show and tribute bands.
Oakes Garden Theatre: Located directly across from the American Falls, it is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. This spectacular garden is the entranceway to Queen Victoria Park. Concerts and special events are held here throughout the summer. Decorative iron gates, Queenston limestone edging, lily ponds and bordering shrub have been meticulously integrated to the formal garden design and offer visitors a tranquil escape.
Lundy’s Lane: Welcome to a shopper’s paradise! There is a wide range of plazas, boutiques and gift shops on Lundy’s Lane. Lundy`s Lane Tourist Area offers over 2 miles of affordable accommodations, shopping, restaurants and entertainment. Restaurants offer scrumptious international and local cuisine.
Niagara Parks Golf: Three unique and challenging golf courses with incredible scenery are available to play through.
SEASONAL ATTRACTIONS
There are some attractions that can be seen at only certain times of the year. Be sure not to miss them if you happen to visit Niagara Falls during those times.
Winter Festival of Lights: From early November until the end of January, the stretch between Queen Victoria Park to Dufferin Islands is illuminated by millions of lights in various formations, making Niagara Falls a winter wonderland.
Fireworks: See the night sky light up with fireworks from May to September over the Falls (and a few dates in November and December). Consult the fireworks schedule to get the exact dates.
Niagara Fall New Year’s Eve Concert: Winter wouldn’t be winter in Niagara Falls if we didn’t have our traditional open-air free to the public New Year’s Eve event.
For more attractions, click here.
Mississauga To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Mississauga To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Niagara Falls Canada Helicopter Tour
Toronto To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Toronto To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Oakville To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Oakville To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
