From hiking trails and discovering the hidden gems of the Niagara region to uncovering the best views, niagara falls attractions tours, and attractions, Niagara Falls is a playground of exploration. With over 125 years of history behind it, and situated between Canadian side and USA, Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.
Whether it’s standing on the iconic Horseshoe Falls, shopping for souvenirs on the Canadian side, or taking a fun-filled Whirlpool Jetboat tour along the River Niagara, this article has all your answers to ensure you make the most of your trip to Nagara Falls.
Short Summary
- Experience the spectacular beauty of Niagara Falls with amazing views, boat tours, Niagara Falls museums, Canadian falls, & unique attractions!
- Don’t get scammed – do your research and don’t believe everything you’re told.
- Splurge for a view, wear waterproof clothes and explore different perspectives to make it an unforgettable experience! It’s really a family friendly environment under a backdrop of thundering water.
Where to Stay in Niagara Falls Canada
Niagara Falls state park is a magnificent natural wonder straddling the border between southern Ontario, Canada and western New York State. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, where tourists can experience breathtaking views of the falls, interact with interactive exhibits, explore different perspectives, and enjoy delectable dining options. At Niagara State Park, visitors can experience the Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, Niagara Adventure Theater, Aquarium of Niagara, and Gorge Discovery Center.
The American side of Niagara Falls i.e. Niagara Falls NY offers a spectacular light show and an observation tower. For those looking for the ultimate Niagara Falls experience, Embassy Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview is the *best* hotel to stay in. It provides an amazing front-and-center view of both the American and Canadian sides for the breathtaking nighttime light show, a Starbucks in the convenient lobby, free breakfast, and an evening manager’s reception. Plus, the Niagara Falls Incline Railway is located in the hotel’s backyard, so it can save visitors from traversing the steep hill of Murray Street.
Every evening, Niagara springs to life with the Nightly Illumination for 2023. It truly is an incredible sight to behold!
DON’T: Get Scammed
The mistake to avoid when visiting Niagara is getting scammed into buying unnecessary tour tickets to see the waterfalls, despite only wanting to take a ride on the Maid of the Mist. The best advice for avoiding this is to do thorough research before going to Niagara Waterfalls and definitely don’t assume everything will be straightforward.
Absolutely don’t get suckered into buying unnecessary tour tickets. Unfortunately, the author of this article experienced this first-hand when they were excitedly told that the only way to go on Maid of the Mist was as part of a tour to see several Niagara sites, which was a lie.
They were then taken miles away to see some other part of the Niagara River before being dropped off at the actual entrance to rainbow bridge to Maid of the Mist.
DON’T: Overcrowd Yourself
The must-avoid mistake when visiting Niagara Falls things is overcrowding yourself in the hottest spot between the Table Rock Visitors Center and Niagara City Cruises. The walkway between the Table Rock Visitors Center and the boarding area for Niagara City Cruises is an incredibly popular spot for visitors. It then continues up to the Clifton Hill entertainment area, which is just as well known among tourists.
To gain a unique experience, tourists can explore either end of the Niagara Parkway. The nearest one is the park located close to the Rainbow Bridge attraction, while the park at the other end is near the Parks Power Station.
DO: Splurge for a View
Splurging for a view in Niagara hotels can provide a breathtaking and unforgettable experience of the falls. The price range for a recommended hotel with a view of Niagara is just over $300 USD.
Not only will guests get a front-row seat to the stunning nighttime light show, but they’ll also get a panoramic view of the majestic Niagara Falls and the surrounding area.
Lake Ontario
Discover why Niagara Parks, situated between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, has become a renowned destination for cyclists from all corners of the globe. Niagara Falls, serving as the pivotal link between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, spans the border between southern Ontario, Canada, and western New York State. Explore this magnificent region where the natural beauty of the falls converges with the allure of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.
Boat Tours
Take a boat tour to experience the sheer power of Niagara Falls and take in its breathtaking beauty on a whole new level. There are two great options to choose from: Maid of the Mist and Niagara City Cruises. Both offer the same stunning views, but the difference lies in their departure points and the fact that the Canadian boats are *so* much nicer.
A full tour lasts around 20 minutes, during which you can take in the thundering waters of the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Great Lakes. Not to be missed is the unforgettable experience of standing on the Hurricane Deck!
Niagara falls boat tours are simply a staple of a breathtaking niagara falls vacation from Niagara Falls NY all the way to Niagara falls Canada.
DO: Wear Waterproof Shoes and Shorts
Visitors should wear waterproof shoes that are properly fitting and closed-toe – no sandals or flip-flops! Shorts are suitable, but visitors should bring a change of clothes or dress in layers to stay comfortable.
For the Maid of the Mist or Hornblower, it’s best to bring a poncho to stay dry. This way, you can enjoy the incredible Canada of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls without having to worry about getting soaked!
DO: Explore Different Perspectives
Niagara Falls has some amazing perspectives to explore when taking a boat tour. The incredible perspectives to explore on guided tour include the views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
Different boats available for tours include the awe-inspiring Maid of the Mist, the spectacular Niagara Falls American-Side Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, and the breathtaking Voyage to the Falls boat tour.
To really appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of Niagara Falls, it’s recommended that visitors see the falls from different perspectives. For the most awesome experience, stand near the front of the boat a little toward the American side.
Transportation Options
You can fly to Buffalo and hop in an Uber or grab a rental car, walk to some locations, take the hop-on/hop-off WEGO tourist bus (particularly the blue line), or drive and park as needed, making a trip to Niagara Falls both exciting and accessible.
Flying to Buffalo is the best way to get to Niagara Falls from NYC. Renting a car or an Uber are the easiest options as only adults need a passport. You can then explore the region with the WEGO tourist bus for a relatively low cost.
It’s totally possible to plan a car-free trip to Niagara Falls, however, daily parking at most lots near the falls parking lot is a whopping $25-30, so be sure to budget for that.
Lesser Known Attractions
Parks Power Station, Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center, Niagara gorge discovery center, Niagara Falls observation tower, wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake, viewing platform adjacent to Horseshoe Falls, Bird Kingdom, and Whirlpool Jetboat Ride – these are just some of the lesser known attractions in Niagara Falls! The Niagara Parks Power Station is a must-see for any visitor to Niagara Falls. Located on the Canadian side of the Niagara River, it was the first major power station on that side. A visit to the Niagara River and Parks Power Station reveals a captivating story. It not only discusses the rich history of the power plant, but also its impact on the entire Niagara region. Furthermore, one can learn about the utilization of the falls as a source of electricity. Visitors should wear a sweatshirt or long-sleeved shirt to stay cozy in the cooler tunnel, waterproof shoes and shorts, and a poncho to stay dry. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours.
Another fantastic attraction to explore in Niagara Falls is the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center. This museum showcases the stories of individual freedom seekers and pays homage to their lives through unique art, interactive exhibits and more. Guided tours are offered regularly throughout the week. Morning and afternoon are available options for each day.
Visitors to Niagara-on-the-Lake can take part in two unique tour offerings to visit local wineries. A viewing platform located right next to Horseshoe Falls offers an amazing view. It is truly a unique perspective of the iconic falls.
Adventure seekers will love the Whirlpool Jetboat Ride. This is considered to be one of North America’s most thrilling experiences, with departures from both the Canada and USA sides of the Niagara River. Reservations are required for this one-of-a-kind experience.
Bird Kingdom is the world’s largest indoor free-fly aviary. The aviary is open until 6:30 in the summer (last admission 5:45), with parking costing a very reasonable $3 per hour.
Niagara Falls has plenty of lesser-known attractions to explore beyond the usual Maid of the Mist boat ride and the Fallsview Casino. For those looking for a unique and memorable experience, there is something for everyone – from interactive exhibits and guided tours to incredible Canada views and outdoor activities.
Food & Drinks
Some of the BEST restaurants in Niagara Falls include Prime Steakhouse, AG Inspired Cuisine, The Flour Mill Scratch Kitchen Restaurant, Carpaccio Ristorante, Top of the Falls Restaurant, Wine On Third, Savor, Flip Burger, and Red Coach Inn Restaurants – all of which offer a unique take on the local cuisine. For those looking for a truly special dining experience, Micah’s Bistro is an AWESOME option.
If you’re looking to explore beyond Niagara Falls, HOB NOB is an amazing recommended restaurant in Niagara-on-the-Lake. When it comes to food and drinks in Niagara Falls, there’s something for everyone. From family-friendly restaurants to romantic dinner spots, the range of options is truly stunning.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal after a long day of sightseeing or just want to sample the local fare, these restaurants will provide an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to stop at one of the many gift shops to pick up some souvenirs while you’re at it!
Exploring the Region
Some of the best activities in the Niagara Falls region include the Maid of the Mist boat tour, Journey Behind the Falls, Skylon Tower, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory, and the Niagara SkyWheel. When exploring the Niagara region, it is important to plan ahead and be aware of the potential dangers. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and be aware of the weather conditions. It is also important to stay hydrated and take regular breaks.
Niagara Falls State Park Horseshoe Falls and More!
The Niagara region of Ontario and western New York has so many incredible sites to explore, like the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and the Niagara Escarpment. Whether you are looking for brag worthy views, outdoor activities, local history, or a rich cultural experience, the Niagara Falls region offers something for everyone. Whether you’re up for a day trip, night, or a long weekend, the Niagara region is sure to provide an an adventure packed experience that you won’t soon forget.
Visit Niagara Falls Canada & the Niagara Gorge
For those seeking a magical adventure that combines history, culture, and nature, Niagara Falls is the perfect place! Breathtakingly beautiful, with an abundance of activities to choose from, it’s no wonder this stunning destination has become a top travel spot attraction for tourists around the world.
Whether it’s taking in the incredible views from your hotel room, feeling the power of the falls by taking a boat tour, or exploring the region’s hidden gems, you’re sure to make memories to last a lifetime when visiting Niagara Falls.
So don’t wait another moment—start planning your dream trip to Niagara Falls today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are 5 interesting facts about Niagara Falls?
Exciting facts about Niagara Falls! Discover the world’s highest flow rate, a breathtaking 3 waterfalls, thrilling attractions and incredible tightrope walks. Plus, learn about how Niagara Falls is a hydropower source and visit the oldest state park in America – Niagara Falls State Park.
Make sure to visit this natural wonder on your next vacation!
Can you just walk and see Niagara Falls?
Yes, you can absolutely walk and see Niagara Falls! The State Park is open year-round, and admission is free so you can fully take in the breathtaking views.
What is the best time of year to go to Niagara Falls?
For the best experience, visiting Niagara Falls during late spring/early summer or autumn is recommended. During these periods, crowds are not overwhelming and the weather is more comfortable and conducive to sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The best time of year to go to Niagara Falls is during late spring/early summer or autumn! You’ll avoid the large crowds and enjoy comfortable temperatures perfect for sightseeing and exploring the whole park area. Plus, you’ll get to take in the spectacular autumnal colors around the falls!