As one of the past wonders of the world, Niagara Falls is a feat in and of itself. Its majestic waterfall and roaring waves make you wonder how on earth such a thing exists.
Although there are two sides that Niagara Falls can be visited from — the US side, and the Canadian side — I personally think that the Canadian side is much better.
While I may be just a liiiitle bit biased, I think others would also agree.
Let me explain and tell you why!
Why I love Niagara Falls
Growing up in Toronto, Canada, I have very fond memories of taking annual family trips to Niagara Falls. This would be a destination that we went to at least once a year, and something that I would look forward to.
As I grew older, I continued to visit it both with my family, as well as my friends. In fact, Niagara Falls became one of my first “adult trips” that I took without my parents and because of that, I’ve definitely grown to have a sentimental attachment with it.
But why does that matter to you?
Well, because of how often I’ve gone, that just makes me an expert in all things Niagara Falls! And can then, in turn, help you plan out your trip here too.
Not only are the falls magnificent, the Niagara Falls area is filled (and I mean FILLED) with tons of activities to do, from family-friendly activities to adult activities.. There’s something for everyone.
Some even refer to Niagara Falls as the Canadian Las Vegas strip!
How to Get to Niagara Falls
There are several ways to get to Niagara Falls, the easiest being driving. Most visitors are either coming from Toronto, or are driving to the Falls from Buffalo, New York.
If you’re coming from Toronto, it’ll take you approximately 1.5 hours, with the QEW (Queen Elizabeth Highway) being the main route.
Be mindful of traffic, however, as the driving time can easily be doubled during busy times such as the weekends, summer holiday season, or even rush hour times (as this road also is used a lot for regular commuter traffic).
From Toronto, another popular route with locals is via the GO train. In terms of public transportation, this is probably your best option. This service runs every weekend throughout the Summer months and takes approximately 2 hours.
The absolute best thing about this is that it only costs you $25 for the entire trip (or even cheaper if you purchase the group fares)!
Not only that, but it also provides you access to the local transportation in Niagara Falls for the entire weekend – the WEGO buses, which has a transit network within the city that will get to all the major tourist attractions.
Niagara Falls Attractions
Now that you know the best way to get to Niagara Falls, let’s talk about what you can do when you get there. Let me break down a couple of the most popular attractions people visit.
Voyage to the Falls
The most popular thing to do at Niagara Falls is to take the “Voyage to the Falls” boat tour. This boat tour takes you right up to the base of Horseshoe Falls and allows you to take in the beauty of Niagara Falls, from the comfort of your own seat on the boat.
Do, however, keep “comfort” in mind as this tour does not come without experiencing the falls for all of its glory — wind, power, and force. Long story short, there is a chance that you will be soaked.
They provide you with ultra-cool bright-coloured ponchos (being a little sarcastic here) to “keep the mist off of you,” but unless you’re sitting inside the boat the entire time (which I really don’t suggest you do, because c’mon, you’re there to experience the falls, right?!), be prepared to get wet!
As you get closer and closer to the Falls, it’s hard to avoid the mist and the poncho only does so much in terms of protecting you.
Lots of fun though, and I highly recommend it if you haven’t been!
Journey Behind The Falls
Another popular attraction that people love to visit is Journey Behind the Falls.
This tour provides you literal behind the scenes access to the Falls. It takes you through a series of tunnels that goes through bedrock, leading you to observation decks and viewing platforms at various points behind the Falls.
This tour option is great for those who prefer not to get wet, but still see and feel the majestic powers of the Falls. You get to do this at your own pace and take your time exploring the tunnels as fast or slow as you want.
Zipline Niagara Falls
The Zipline Niagara Falls is a newer attraction at Niagara Falls, which I did not have growing up. Needless to say, I definitely would have been first in line had this been an option during my childhood because I sought all things thrills back then!
As for now… I think I’m quite content seeing the Falls from a distance.
Regardless, this zipline adventure is pretty incredible. It spans over 600 meters (2200 feet), and flies you over with views of the American Falls all the way to the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
If you’re feeling brave, this is a must-do!
The Best View at Niagara Falls
One of the best things about Niagara Falls is that unlike other widely popular attractions, there is a large area to take in all the views. At least, on the Canadian side, that is.
This area has what seems like an endless paved road that guides you all along the Falls, which visitors are free to walk as they please. Along this road, you’ll get to see the Falls at different angles, and even see the different falls that you may not have gotten to see from other angles.
But in my opinion, the best view of Niagara Falls is the viewpoint over Horseshoe Falls.
Close to Table Rock (which also happens to be another stop on the WEGO network), there’s a location on the road where you’re right up to the Falls, actually seeing the water go over the falls.
It’s one thing to see the Falls from a distance, as you see it in its entirety. But when you’re up close, it’s really quite astonishing. You really see and feel just how much water there is, and the speed and power at which it falls.
Here’s a map below to pinpoint the exact location that I’m talking about:
For those looking for an exact link/directions, here’s the google map coordinates as well: 43° 4′ 43.6768″ N 79° 4′ 43.8823″ W
If you’re coming to Niagara Falls with the main intention of seeing the Falls, then I’d highly recommend making the walk over here.
Take it from someone who’s seen the Falls a million times, but still can’t get enough of this view.
Clifton Hill Attractions
Another thing you’re going to want to check out during your trip is Clifton Hill.
This street is an absolute must, and is what is considered to be the “Vegas” of Canada.
Now, now, I do admit that that’s a bit of a stretch… but it’s still a really cool area to check out. The lights, signs and all of the colours – it’s a lot to take in, but there’s not many other places quite like it.
There are tons of attractions on this strip, including a wax museum, haunted houses, arcades and 4D motion rides.
Take your time to walk around here.You can literally spend an entire day just going in and out of stores because trust me, there’s a lot. The top highlights for me include the Canadian Midway Arcade, Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum, as well as the iconic Skywheel.
If you’re looking to do multiple attractions with your little ones, they offer a “fun pass” for both kids and adults to enjoy a number of attractions at a discounted price. This is probably the best way to get the most bang for your buck.
If you’re super keen on a certain activity, just be sure this pass includes it before you buy because it doesn’t always include everything!
Another way to save is to check out a hotel lobby – most, if not all, always have a coupon book where you can save a few dollars per ticket. These will be small savings but hey, it can add up!
Casinos
For those of you looking for more adult fun, there are also two casinos in the area — the Fallsview Casino and Casino Niagara, both of which have great gambling.
It’s easy to spend the entire night at the casinos, considering both these places are open 24/7 and have restaurants where you can order food and drinks. If you’re looking for table games all night, Fallsview Casino is the place to be as tables are available at all hours. Tables close around 4am at Casino Niagara.
Outside the Falls Area
There are a couple of other places outside of the immediate Falls area that while may take a little longer to get to (and likely require a vehicle), are also worth visiting.
Niagara-On-The-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a small, but picturesque town close to Niagara that’s known for its historic buildings, boutique dining and shopping, and beautiful waterfront.
It’s a great place to spend the day, have lunch, and get any souvenirs or knick-knacks to take home.
In contrast to Clifton Hills, the Niagara-on-the-Lake area provides a more laid-back and old-time feel.
The arts are also a big draw of Niagara-on-the-Lake, which has Shaw Festival Theatres, Niagara Historical Society and the Niagara Apothecary Museum.
Niagara Wineries
Many are surprised that Niagara is filled with a ton of beautiful wineries.
Due to its location between the Great Lakes, this region is ideal for wine-making. It sits in an area that avoids extreme cold Canadian temperatures, and has the ideal terrain required for vineyards.
Visit one, two or more wineries during your stay and enjoy the beauty of the natural landscape while sipping on award winning wines.
If you get a chance to take a guided tour, definitely do this. The guides are very knowledgeable and provide a lot of great information that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to get. Plus, most of the tours come with transportation from your hotel or designated central location so you won’t have to worry about having one too many beverages, or having a DD.
There are so many wineries to choose from, you really can’t go wrong with any choice you make. However, my personal favourites are Two Sisters, Reif and Peller Estates.
Canada, specifically Niagara Falls, is famous for its ice wine so be sure to try some while you’re here! Ice wine is typically very sweet and fruity in flavour, with a heavier mouthfeel and higher alcohol content hovering around 10% ABV. It’s absolutely delicious!
Niagara Glen
Niagara Glen is a nature reserve located just outside of the Niagara Falls area that runs alongside the Canadian side of the Niagara Gorge. It offers short hiking trails with views of boulders, flora and fauna, as well as of the Niagara River below.
The opening to Niagara Glen starts with a steep stairway down, which can be considered moderately difficult for those with balance impairment. But if you have no problem with balance, this should be a piece of cake.
These stairs, however, make it so the roads are hardly visible from the Glen, which makes it a great place to take a break from all the hustle and bustle.
There are a total of 4.2km (2.5 miles) of trails for you to explore. I would consider the trails here moderately easy to hike (other than the first steep stairs down), and don’t require prior hiking experience. And since these trails aren’t incredibly long, it makes for a great quick stop during the day.
Niagara Falls For Everyone
So there you have it.
Those are some of the best things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada! From the majestic beauty of the falls itself to the unique attractions, Niagara Falls will take your breath away with its natural beauty and non-stop entertainment. There’s something for everyone!
Have you ever been to Niagara Falls? What were some of your favourite things to do?
