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3 Day Niagara Falls Itinerary That Goes Beyond Just The Falls

Last Updated August 16, 2024 William Tang

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The might, power, and thunder of Niagara Falls is mesmerizing and there are so many different ways of seeing it! For first-timers to the area, it’s easy to feel like you should spend all your time in the popular Fallsview Boulevard, Lundy Lane or Clifton Hill District, but for those that are hungry for the outdoors, seeking out delicious food and wine and looking to spend time in a charming and picturesque town, I’m here to show you how you can plan a Niagara Falls itinerary on the Canadian side and dive deeper than just the falls.

This is a Niagara Falls itinerary where you can check out the highlights of my recent trip, and also get inspired to carve out your own adventure in the close by postcard-perfect town.

In This Article

3 day niagara falls itinerary highlights, trip planning map, day 1 – the falls and gorge, day 2 – ride and splash, day 3 – wakeboarding, where to stay in niagara, recommended activities to book, a quick niagara canada travel guide, the whole niagara adventure experience, read more about ontario, where to stay in niagara, travel resources for your next trip.

Whether you’re planning for a long weekend, a summer getaway or a couple of days to spare when passing through the region, this 3 day Niagara Falls itinerary is packed with things to do when looking to go off the beaten path. From the adventure of its spectacular outdoors and renowned wine to the farm-to-table cuisine and charming landscape, these are what make the Niagara Region a favourite to so many.

Here were my top 5 highlights of the Niagara region:

• Whirlpool Jet Boat
• Niagara Glen Gorge
• Prince of Wales
• Wakeboarding
• Winery tour with Zoom Bikes

Things To Do In Niagara Ontario – A 3 Day Itinerary

There’s a wealth of things to see, do and eat in Niagara’s Canadian side, and with a limited number of days to work with, it can be a challenge to fit it all in, but with planning and inspiration from this 3 day itinerary, you’ll make the most out of your vacation!

I get it, trip planning isn’t easy and that’s why at Going Awesome Places I focus on creating in-depth guides and itineraries to make it a piece of cake.  Whether it’s Canadian content like the 4 day Richmond BC itinerary , 3 day Calgary itinerary , or the super popular top ramen in Tokyo guide , I ensure Google Maps is a key component to each. I use these maps when travelling and find they really help to put perspective on each location and their surroundings.

Tip:  View the Niagara 3 day planning map in full screen and create a copy (this step is key) for yourself.  Make tweaks for your own trip in Google Maps, you’ll be able to view it by going into the menu, selecting “My Places” and the “Maps” tab.

No matter how many times you’ve seen it, the majesty of Niagara Falls never gets old.  Follow the water as it gently rolls from your view along the railing until the roar of the water gets louder and louder.  Soon, the swift current splashes in trepidation and at the crest, it disappears into a wall of white mist that erupts into the sky.

Start your first day in Niagara Falls getting right up close to the action at, in my opinion, the best place to see it—adjacent to the Table Rock Welcome Centre .  From here, you’re right by where the water thunders downwards and at the same time you can peel back and see the entirety of Horseshoe Falls.  This area is also what I affectionately call the “splash zone” because there’s intermittent waves of refreshing water.

Spend the morning exploring this area, take a ton of photos, and roam left and right of the Welcome Centre. There’s also a perfect viewing platform here that you should definitely take advantage of.

When your stomach starts to growl, make your way up to the Table Rock House Restaurant for lunch. With a panoramic view overlooking the Falls, this restaurant serves up an internationally inspired menu focused on bringing locally sourced ingredients and offering a number of vegan and vegetarian options.  The striploin steak, cured Atlantic salmon, and prosciutto with fresh burrata are great choices. You’ll find it hard to leave because of the view.

TIP: Make a reservation and request a seat by the window to ensure you get a great view.  Lunch is usually a great time to go because it’s not too packed.

PARKING: The most convenient place to park is at the lot right across from Table Rock Welcome Centre, but expect to pay at least $25 for it.

Need a car rental from Toronto or Buffalo? 

If you require a car rental from the airport, I highly recommend you book with Avis who has one of the largest fleet of vehicles.  Use coupon  MUWA056  to save $15 off $125.

COPY CODE & GO

This is the last time you’ll be in the downtown Niagara Falls area, and from here on out you’ll be exploring other areas of the region that not everyone is aware of.

Ever wonder where those trillions of gallons of water rushing down the falls go?  Start your journey with White Water Walk , which will get you right in that same water you just saw over lunch.

Take an elevator down the escarpment and end up on a self-guided boardwalk with several points where you can view the water funnelling through a narrow part of the Niagara River, creating the highest class of rapids – the Class 6.

There are two viewing platforms that jut out closer to the water, and as you watch in disbelief at the Falls themselves, you’ll focus on one area of the river and be dumbfounded by just how ridiculously fast and powerful the water is moving through.  You can’t help but feel the power and adrenaline of the rapids here.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

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

Hours:  9AM-8PM during the summer but varies quite a bit during the off-season so it’s best to check the website.  This is a seasonal attraction open April to mid November weather permitting.

Price:   $14 for adults (13+) and $9 for children (6-12)

Website:  White Water Walk

Parking:    There is street parking right by the entrance to White Water Walk but it is metered and not free.

Tips:  

• It’s recommended you book your tickets in advance to save you the extra time needed to purchase them at the gift shop but you can only do that if you purchase the Niagara Falls Adventure Pass  which bundles a number of activities together.
• Since there is only one elevator that goes down, there is inevitably a line to go down.  This line is first-come-first-serve so account for some time to get down.

READ THE REVIEW

Continue along the way towards Niagara-on-the-Lake and eventually, you’ll see the Niagara Glen Nature Centre on your right.  This one is easy to miss, but if you love the outdoors and are looking for a unique way to see the region, this is not to be missed.

Located in the Niagara Gorge, you’ll be taking the stairs down to the base of the cliffs which then opens up to 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) of rugged hiking trails that are extremely well marked. Twisting through jagged rock, prehistoric geological formations, the forest and wild flora and fauna, it’s a perfect way to escape and connect with the natural landscape.

There are a number of trails to choose from, but the best by far is the River Trail, which follows the Niagara River with a number of lookout points and canopied peek-throughs.  A great point to take a break is right at Cripps Eddy where the Eddy Trail and River trail meet.

Address:  3050 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E

Hours:  10AM-5PM May to October but for specific dates, make sure to check their website.

Price:   Free

Website:  Niagara Glen Nature Centre

Parking:    There is a large parking lot in front of the visitor centre but it is metered and not free.  Pricing is $1.25 per hour or a maximum of $10 per day (covering 8 hours).

• Make sure to drop by the visitor centre to grab a map because that will help you navigate the various trails and icon markers.
• If you are interested in bouldering, you can pick up a day-permit at the visitor centre.
• Daily guided hiking tours are available in the summer at 11AM and 2PM.  You need to call for more information and availability.
• The hiking trails aren’t necessarily difficult but there are inclines and of course the staircase that takes you down and up the escarpment.  Good hiking shoes are recommended.
• While well-marked, there are a few forks in the trail that can get a little confusing.  Always be on the lookout for the icon markers for the trails.  If confused, go a little bit further down a trail to figure out whether it’s the right way.  If you don’t see anything, turn back and go the other way.

Take the scenic tree-lined parkway towards Niagara-on-the-Lake and get yourself situated by checking in to your hotel, in the case of our trip this was the Prince of Wales Hotel .

Get changed and be ready for a night on the town affectionately known as NOTL.  Teeming with a spectrum of colours from the impeccable landscaping, lush greenery from the nearby Simcoe Park and restored 19th-century houses now converted to charming eateries and boutiques, you’ll want to take a peek into everything you pass by.

Eventually, make your way to the award-winning Treadwell Restaurant, one of the restaurants that’s also featured in our guide of the best restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake .  Celebrated for its farm-to-table, it’s well-known for its status as one of the best restaurants in the region.  The father-son duo, Stephen (father, chef) and James (sommelier, son) have created a dining experience that is all about emphasizing the best artisan producers from Niagara in memorable dishes that’ll have you coming back for more.

While there is an outdoor patio and roomy tables, the best seats in the house are right up at the bar where you have full view of the performance happening in the open-kitchen.  As hungry as you’ll feel, your eyes will be darting back and forth between the chefs sautéing fresh asparagus and poaching eggs to the grilling of perfect cuts of beef, the sizzle of scallops, and finally the plating steps as the head chef barks out orders to his disciples acknowledging with “Yes Chef!”

Both the Seared “Icy Waters” Arctic Char and Roasted “VG Meats” Beef Striploin were superb. The fish cooked perfectly with crisped skin and filled with a lobster surprise that boasted delicious flavours. The striploin, another fantastic offering, cooked to perfection and balanced with potato rosti and that hint of truffle.

What you’ll see:

• Niagara Falls
• Table Rock Welcome Centre
• Niagara-on-the-Lake

What you’ll do:

• White Water Walk
• Niagara Glen Nature Centre

Where you’ll eat:

• Lunch – Table Rock House Restaurant – An exceptional restaurant with the perfect view of the Falls.
• Dinner – Treadwell Restaurant – Foodie heaven with farm-to-table creations that are of the highest quality paired, with the best selection of wines.
• Dessert – COWS Niagara on the Lake – Ice creamery that is udderly  fantastic thanks to its ingredients and 16% butterfat that originated from Prince Edward Island.  This is the only COWS in Ontario so take advantage!

Start your day off right with breakfast at the Prince of Wales with a quality selection of fresh bread, pastries, and favourites such as waffles, eggs benedict, and more.

It’s not a secret that Niagara-on-the-Lake is best known for its bounty of vineyards and world-class wines, and so it’d be remiss to not have this included in your 3-day Niagara Falls itinerary. What better way to see a few of these wineries than to rent a bicycle and take in the lush scenery that allows the grapes to grow so well.

Whether you pick up your bikes from Zoom Leisure Bikes at their office or have them delivered, you’ll head out on the road and make your way to your first stop, Peller Estates.  Along the way you’ll be rolling along Queen’s Parade and pass by Fort George National Historic Site.

Address:   431 Mississauga Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, L0S 1J0

Hours:  Open April to October 31, 7 days a week, 8:30AM – 7PM

Price:   Half Day (up to 3 hours) for $20 and Full Day (up to 24 hrs) for $30

Website:  Zoom Leisure Bikes

Parking:  There’s free onsite parking and additional free street parking on William Street.

Delivery service: If you’d like to pick up your bike from your hotel, they can arrange for a special drop-off there for a $20 flat fee.

• E-bikes and tandem bikes are available to rent as well.
• The comfort cruiser is quite comfortable.  They come with a handle bar bag and the height of the bikes can be manually adjusted without a wrench.  That said, if you plan on buying a lot of wine, make sure you bring a backpack.  Also, don’t forget to bring tons of water.
• For convenience, reserve bicycles with Zoom Leisure Bikes and have them deliver them straight to your hotel so you can start riding right away.

READ THE REVIEWS

Peller Estates is one of the most prestigious winemakers in Niagara-on-the-Lake, having won numerous awards. As a winery, Peller offers a great tasting and dining experience and is often included in many top Niagara wine tours .

When you’re here you can decide to do one of the many tours they offer or head up to the Estate Room for a tasting of their premium vintage wines.

The Estate Room is by appointment only and is a smaller exclusive space with comfortable chairs.  The list of wines that you can try here are also different than what is available on the main floor and you’ll also get more personalized service here from the wine consultants.  Trust me, this is the way to go if you come to Peller Estates.

If you prefer sweeter wines, make sure you ask about their Sparking Ice Cuvée and Cabernet Franc Icewine, both of which are quite unique in their class.

Address:  290 John Street East, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, Canada L0S 1J0

Hours:  

• Summer Hours – Sunday to Thursday: 10AM to 9PM | Friday & Saturday: 10AM to 10PM
• Winter Hours – Sunday to Thursday: 10AM to 7PM | Friday & Saturday: 10AM to 9PM

Price: varies depending on the experience.  The Estate Room wine tasting is $15 per person.

Website:  Peller Estates

Parking:  There’s plenty of free parking onsite.

• Make sure to book your experiences ahead of time as they do fill up quickly.
• You can also do wine tasting on the main store floor which is cheaper but your won’t be able to access to the finer vintages.

When you’re done, grab your bike and hit the trail again.  This time you’ll ride towards another famous winery called Inniskillin, a household name when it comes to Niagara wines.

The Inniskillin Wine Estate is one of the pioneers of Canada’s wine industry, first starting off in Niagara-on-the-Lake, now grown to having a winery in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.  With 35 years of history under their belt, they carry some of the most respected VQA wines (Canada’s regulatory system for wines) thanks to their progressive and artisanal winemakers.

Depending on how you feel, you can go for another flight of wines in their tasting room, go on a tour, or just have a lunch oat the Grill.

Address:  1499 Line #3, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada L0S 1J0

• Summer/Fall Hours  (May – October) | 10AM – 6PM | Daily
• Winter/Spring Hours  (November – April) | 10AM – 5PM | Daily

Price: Public wine tasting is $10 for a flight of 1 oz. glasses.  You can also join one of their tours.

Website:  Inniskillin

• There are a number of public and private tours available that I highly encourage reservations for.
• You can see the full menu for the Inniskillin Grill before you go.

It’s now time to switch gears (pun intended) and get your heart pumping.  Drop off your bike at your designated point and call an Uber to where the next adventure will begin.

Save on Uber

All you have to do is create a new Uber account with code  willt1234ue   and receive $10 off your first ride.

I thought I had an idea of what the most extreme jet boat could be like based on the top things to do in Queenstown, New Zealand .  Zipping through canyons at blazing fast speeds and pulling 360 spins like they were nothing was on my mind, and so when I got a glimpse of the rapids during our Niagara Glen Nature Centre hike and seeing some of the jet boats go by, I was worried that this would be a weak experience.

Let me tell you, Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours is anything but weak.  With 600 horses strapped to the back of these custom-made jet boats, you set out to the Class-5 rapids.  You’ll return with a true appreciation for the power of that water.

Things start off pretty easy with the captain spinning you around near the towering hydropower plants.  You actually start by riding against the current of the rapids which gives you a sense of what’s to come but you really have no idea what’s in store until you make your very first run.

All I’m going to say is that with every dip into the swells a battering wave of water clobbers everyone on the boat (those in the front more-so than in the back).  You think it’s over with the first smash as you make your first gasp of air and wipe the dripping water off your eyes, and BAM, you get hit with another splash.  The onslaught keeps coming and at the end of it all, you’re ear to ear smiles. The jet boat makes another run upstream and let’s just say there are a couple more runs in the tank to keep you soaked.

The jet boat makes another run upstream and let’s just saw there’s a couple more runs in the tank to keep you soaked.

The focus here will be for the Wet Jet Tour but I’ll touch on the other options as well.

Address:  55 River Frontage Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0.  This is the primary Canadian location.  Alternatively, you can check-in at the Floral Clock at 14004 Niagara Pkwy, Queenston, ON L0S 1L0.

Hours: There are time slots for tours from 10AM – 4PM during the summer.

Price:   $69.95 for adults and $45 for children 12 and under ( save $5 with code 1051 )

Website:  Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours

• What’s the difference between the two tours? There are currently two boats, one is the standard boat they have that they call the “Wet Jet Tour” which is not covered.   The other is a fully covered that’s under the “Jet Dome Tour” and this means that smaller children can ride and you won’t get wet.
• Is there a bathroom onboard?  No.
• Is this okay for those that get nauseous easily?  My wife gets nauseous easily but didn’t throughout this trip so I think it’s safe!
• How long does the tour actually take?  The tour is 45-60 minutes.
• Are there restrictions for children?  Children must be at least 44 inches tall (112cm) to participate in the Wet Jet Tour and at least 40 inches tall (102cm) to participate in the Jet Dome Tour.  Anyone under the age of 18 must have an adult to sign for them to ride the boat. Guests aged 16 and 17 are able to ride without adult accompaniment but must have a parent or guardian present to sign their participation form.
• Is safety gear provided? Life jackets are provided.
• What if it’s too cold? They do provide extra layers such as fleece if the temperatures are low.
• Are there lockers? Free lockers are available to store your change of clothes and other gear.  No coin deposit is required.
• Are there change rooms?  Yes, there are change rooms.
• What do I need to bring? You’ll need a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, waterproof camera, and appropriate wear.
• Are shuttles available? Yes, they offer complimentary shuttle at the Floral Clock on the Niagara Parkway to the docks which means you can get there via the bus if you need to.  To be clear, you need to make your own way to the Floral Clock of the docks.
• Arrive early – You should plan to be at the docks or  Floral Clock at least 45 minutes ahead of time.
• Expect to get fully soaked – The ponchos they provide have the illusion of some protection but you will get very soaked so I recommend you wear sandals or shoes you don’t mind getting fully wet.  There are “waterproof” pouches near the grab handles in front of you for your sunglasses and hat but it’s not water-tight so they might get wet but they will at least keep them secure.
• Bring sunscreen – You’ll be soaking in all the UV rays on top of the water so I would recommend putting this on before you head out.
• Photography – They’re not too strict here as they only ask waterproof cameras have a wrist strap but my recommendation is to bring a GoPro on a hands-free mount for the best experience.
• More action is in the front – If you really want an intense water splashing experience, try your best to get up front.  The line up is a bit of a free for all and once you get to the boat you can decide which row you want to be on depending on what’s left.
• Photo and video package – They take photos pre-trip and have the GoPro running on the boat.  You can purchase everything for $49.95 or just photos for $29.95.

SAVE $5 WITH CODE 1051

Heads up: The dock area is a black-zone for cellular reception so you may need to schedule an Uber ahead of time or walk around to find a signal.  Also, since you’re right across the border, your phone may start switching to data roaming so turn that off if you don’t want to inadvertently chew through data.

Catch another cab ride back into Niagara-on-the-Lake and freshen up before getting done up for dinner at another local favourite, Zee’s Patio and Grill .  They’re located right across from the Shaw Festival Theatre and has a nice mix of patio, open-porch, and interior seating depending on what you’re feeling.  Most of their food is also farm-to-table so expect a welcoming casual dining experience with fresh dishes to delight.

• Peller Estates
• Zoom Leisure Bikes
• Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours
• Lunch – Inniskillin Market Grill – Outdoor patio that serves up BBQ-fare that has a twist of Canadiana and wine.  Personally, I thought the food was just average but it’s a quick bite for those that are on-the-go like we were with our bikes.
• Dinner – Zee’s Patio & Grill  –  A restaurant with chill vibes and a menu filled with fresh seafood, delicious appetizers and tantalizing dinner options.

It’s time to say goodbye to Niagara-on-the-Lake early on your last day because there are big surprises for you coming ahead.  Most people know Niagara to be this combination of the Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake because the name shows up in both places, but the municipal region itself covers a vast part of land that includes many other cities.

One of those cities is Port Colborne.  Most people that travel through don’t know about this lovely little city, but since you’re here, I’ll let you in on a little secret.  Known mostly for being one of the outlets for the Welland Canal into Lake Erie, there’s a company known as Boarder Pass that runs a wakeboarding centre right at Sugarloaf Marina.

Now typically wakeboarding involves being dragged by a boat like you would in jet-skiing except replace the skis with a board, and riding the waves (aka wake) created by the boat, but since that is expensive and harder to learn, straight-line cable wakepark was created to make the sport more accessible.

Before doing this trip, we had never done wakeboarding before and so there was a little bit of nervousness heading into it, but once we got our training, suited up, strapped into the board and hit the water, it was surprising how quickly we were able to pick it up.

The magic happens once you figure out how to carve your wakeboard at the end of the line, so by the time the pulley turns the other direction, your momentum brings you around.  It’ll take a few tries, but I eventually got it and had quite the accomplished feeling.

Overall, it’s a thrilling activity that looks a lot harder than it actually is when it comes down to the basics.  You’ll fall into the water your first few times, but in no time you’ll be gliding along the glistening water and shouting “yee-haw” like I did if you watch the video.

This is the perfect activity to learn something new, take in the fresh outdoors and stay cool with the inevitable splash into the water.

Address: 3 Marina Dr, Port Colborne, ON L3K 6C6.  You’ll notice that this isn’t well-marked on Google Maps but you can also easily find them on the  trip planning map .

Hours:  Tuesday – Thursday: 1PM to 7PM and Friday – Sunday: 11AM to 7PM during the summer months.

Price:   20 minutes for $35 (with rental) or $30 (without rental), 10 minutes for $25 (with rental) or $20 (without rental)

Website:  Boarder Pass Port Colborne

• Are there change rooms?  Yes, the marina facilities has bathroom and change room facilities.
• Is 10 or 20 minutes enough? If there’s anything I learned, you get tired really quickly on the water.  This is plenty of time especially if its your first time.
• Are there lockers?  Since Boarder Pass itself doesn’t really have any built-in facilities other than picnic bench and pop-up gazebo, the rest is the open marina park.  Since there aren’t a lot of people around, keeping things near the picnic bench is pretty safe especially since the instructor sits near there to control the pulley.
• Bring sunscreen – There is no cover when you’re on the water so make sure you’re fully protected before you start.
• You will be sore – I’m not going to lie, my arms and upper body was sore the few days after but that just means this is a really good work out right?

The last thing on this 3-day Niagara Falls itinerary is a visit to a brewery in the nearby Ridgeway.  Wine isn’t the only thing that’s produced in this region and this is your chance to sample some of the best craft ales in a really unique setting.

Your last stop is Brimstone Brewing Company , located in a re-purposed 20th-century church.  Here, the basement is used as the brewery and a large garage extension built out as a patio, they’re most well-known for their Sinister Minister IPA, but they also have quite the line of beers that range from easy-drinking to hop forward, and experimental.

While you’re here, definitely order their flight of beers served on a wooden cross and pair it up with their Niagara peach flatbread or Reuben sandwich.

When you’re done, it’s time to head home or your next destination!

• Boarder Pass Port Colborne
• Lunch – Brimstone Brewing Company  – Craft brewery in an unexpected part of the Niagara Region and set in an old church.

Looking for deals?

When it comes to looking for a place to stay in Niagara Falls, my personal opinion is that basing yourself in Niagara-on-the-Lake is a much better choice because you get access to the best dining options, not to mention all of the wineries.  That said, you have a lot of choices here so let me share with you four different accommodations that I think you’ll like.

I STAYED HERE

 PRINCE OF WALES HOTEL

This historic hotel right in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake is in a location that doesn’t get any better. Rooms are spacious and comfortable and their staff is incredibly friendly and helpful.  It’s a classic for a reason.

TripAdvisor

Booking.com

CLOSE TO THE FALLS

HILTON NIAGARA FALLS

This is one of the best properties in Niagara Falls. Connected to Fallsview Casino by a walkway, this hotel boasts 3 on-site restaurants, on-site restaurants, walking distance to Clifton Hills, and faces right out to Horseshoe Falls.

ULTIMATE B&B

CASA BLANCA BOUTIQUE B&B

A charming family-owned B&B where the rooms are extremely comfortable and breakfast incredible.  Free parking is available and the location of this property is only 500 metres from Jackson Triggs.

AFFORDABLE NOTL 

HILTON GARDEN INN NOTL

The means a reliable stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake where you know you’ll get a high quality room, free breakfast if you have Gold status, indoor swimming pool, free parking, and free wifi.

As you’re planning your itinerary, the places and activities I’ve mentioned may not be exactly what you’re looking for so I’ve compiled a few tours here that I recommend.

Hornblower Niagara Falls Boat Tour  – Most locals think of “Maid of the Mist” but this is actually a misnomer because this is not the cruise that leaves from the Canadian side.  Hornblower Cruises is the Canadian boat that goes as far as they can into the Horseshoe Falls where you’re relentlessly misted by the Falls and the thunder of the water will blow you away.

Niagara Falls Zipline – There’s only one place in the world where you can ride a 670 metre past the American Falls to the Falls Landing and Observation platform at the base of the mighty Canadian Horseshoe Falls at a soaring height of 67 metres.  Skip the line and save money with this ticket!

Niagara Falls Wine Tour with Cheese Pairing – This is a half day Niagara-on-the-Lake small-group tour that includes multiple wine-tastings at world-class wineries that’s topped off with Ontario’s famous ice wine and cheese pairing.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Cycle and Wine Tasting Tour  – This is a guided biking and wine tasting tour where there’s the option of doing a 6.5 hour tour that includes a picnic lunch or a 4.5 hour tour that includes a specialty cheese pairing.  Pedal through flat and easy biking routes to the region’s best wineries. For other ideas, make sure to read the best Niagara Falls wine tours .

Niagara Falls Helicopter Tour – Experience Niagara Falls in a way that you’ve never seen it before – from the sky.  This is a thrilling 10-minute scenic helicopter ride that leaves from the Niagara Falls Heliport where you’ll get a birds-eye-view of American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.

Money –  The Niagara region is credit card friendly so you’ll be fine to not carry too much Canadian cash.  That said, one thing to keep in mind is that many local shops might not take American Express.

When is the best time? – As a local, Niagara is honestly great to go any time of the year because each season brings out a different side to the Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake.  Summers are of course great because everything is open to visitors including the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours , wakeboarding and White Water Walk which typically run from May to October.  This is also during high-season so expect crowds.  Fall colours are a magical time to come especially around Niagara Glen Gorge so October is a great month to come for that.  The winter months are of course cold but there’s something magical about being here with the snow and snuggling up to the cozy fireplace during that time of the year.  Lastly, spring is exciting too because of the flowers blooming and foliage coming back in.

Getting here –  Toronto is only 1.5 hours away and Buffalo is only 40 minutes away, each of those cities has a major international airport (YYZ and BUF) for those coming from further away.  If you’re coming from Toronto and looking for a day trip, there are day trips from Toronto that you can consider.

 How do I get around the region? – If you’re looking to explore the whole region, having a car is going to be your best bet.  If you’re going to be requiring a car rental from either Toronto or Buffalo airports, I highly recommend that you check out my car rental coupon code resource to save a ton of money.  Otherwise, public transit within the Niagara Falls area has been greatly improved thanks to WeGo .  They have 4 lines including a shuttle to Niagara-on-the-Lake and only costs $9 for 24-hour unlimited usage.

 Where should I stay?  – The most comprehensive platform for bookings based on personal experience was Booking.com .  They had everything from hotels, hostels, and guesthouses and we always managed to find an awesome place for a great place.  As an alternative, there’s also Expedia and VRBO .

Do I need travel insurance? – As always, travel insurance is highly recommended.  My philosophy is that you want to make sure you’re covered in case the unknown happens.  With the amount of travel that I do, I always get basic travel insurance that’s good for multiple trips and lasts the full year.   HeyMondo  is the best balance of coverage and price for anyone looking for travel insurance. Make sure to read our  full review  of why and a breakdown of how they work. For a more broader look at travel insurance, make sure to  read this .

As someone that’s been to Niagara Falls countless times, this is an itinerary that is meant to show you a different side to the region – one that’s an adventure of the culinary arts, outdoors and decidedly gorgeous landscapes.

Over the course of this 3 day Niagara Falls itinerary, you start off by not burying the lead and seeing the main attraction, but from there you peel off to do sights and attractions that are off the beaten path.  Intermingled between beats of adrenaline such as wakeboarding and jet boating, you can have a relaxed and romantic stroll on Queen Street with a cone of Cow’s ice cream in your hands, or have a string of wine tastings in Ontario’s best.

So what are you waiting for?  It’s time to explore the Niagara Region and make all of your friends and family jealous along the way.

Got questions for your own trip to Niagara Canada? Let me help by simply  dropping a comment down below !

• Best Niagara Falls winery tours
• Best restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Where to book yurts in Ontario
• 12 of the best easy hikes in Toronto
• Top free things to do in Toronto
• Canada travel guide
• The  Prince of Wales Hotel  is older than the country of Canada itself, having opened its doors in 1864.   Located in  Niagara-on-the-Lake , this property is highly recommended and one of the most popular in the region.

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300 ) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The one we find using the most is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order. The newest eSIM we’ve tried is KnowRoaming that sneakily has great rates on unlimited plans. We’ve partnered with them to give you a custom code GAP10 to save you 10%.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

This trip was in collaboration with Tourism Niagara but all opinions and thoughts are my own.

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About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Sip and savour your way through locally inspired farm-to-table restaurants, wineries, breweries and distilleries to experience the best Niagara has to offer.

The family fun never stops in Niagara Falls. The region has everything you need for the ultimate getaway!

Explore Niagara Falls year-round for awe-inspiring outdoor adventures, whether you’re hiking, biking, golfing, going with the flow or looking for a next-level experience.

It's never a bad time to escape on an intimate Niagara Falls getaway for two! Watch sparks and fireworks fly high above the breathtaking waterfall and fall in love all over again while you #ExploreNiagara.

For all self-described wine connoisseurs, beer aficionados and whiskey enthusiasts, Niagara is for you! #ExploreNiagara every way you can, from in-depth wine tastings to flights of craft beer.

Unique Spa Getaway

Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa

starting at $ 209. 00

Waterpark Package

Marriott on the Falls

starting at $ 249. 00

Waterpark Getaway Package

Skyline Hotel & Waterpark

starting at $ 159. 00

Couples Package

Hilton Hotel and Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview

starting at $ 239. 00

Casino Package

Howard Johnson Plaza

starting at $ 109. 95

Clifton Victoria Inn at the Falls

starting at $ 129. 00

Romance Package

starting at $ 154. 95

Enchanted Package

Holiday Inn By The Falls

starting at $ 119. 00

Parking Package

Fairfield by Marriott

Family Fun Package

Embassy Suites Fallsview

starting at $ 230. 00

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Come For The Wonder, Stay For The Adventure

With plenty of things to do in Niagara Falls--from exploring awe-inspiring natural beauty, hiking miles of trails through Niagara Falls State Park, or to getting soaked on the Hurricane Deck--it’s the perfect destination for a family vacation or nature retreat. A Niagara Falls trip is guaranteed to have something for everyone!

Plan Your Trip

Driving to Niagara Falls State Park is a snap, with four parking lots available to easily accommodate park visitors.

Maps and Directions

Our Maps & Directions will help you better plan your trip to Niagara Falls State Park, NY by providing directions from origins in both the U.S. and Canada.

Know Before You Go

Visit our FAQ's page for answers to frequently asked questions and know before you go!

Explore Niagara

Events Calendar

Check to see which special events will be taking place during your Niagara Falls trip.

More To Do In Niagara Falls

With so much to see and do in Niagara Falls and the surrounding areas, you won’t want to leave.

Filming Permits

If you’re interested in filming at one of the world’s most highly requested film shooting destinations, you must obtain a permit first.

Niagara Falls Weather

Learn more about the weather changes, in order to plan your trip to Niagara Falls properly.

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3-Day Niagara Falls Itinerary for Planning the Perfect Weekend Trip

So you’re planning a trip to Niagara Falls, getting the logistics of your itinerary and wondering how to make it the best weekend ever. You’ve come to the right place, my Rambling friend!

Seeing how Niagara Falls is within the top 10 largest waterfalls in the world and claims the top spot as the most-visited waterfall in the world, you won’t want to skip a beat.

The perfect Niagara Falls itinerary starts with a plan on how to visit the Falls, what to do in the area and the best airport to fly into to make your trip spectacular. I recommend flying in early Friday morning so you can beat the rush of visitors that flock to these majestic Falls every weekend.

But if you can’t don’t worry. This is the only 3-day itinerary you’ll need — whether you fly in on Friday morning or Friday night!

How to Visit Niagara Falls on a 3-Day Weekend Itinerary

Table of Contents

Day 1 (Friday)

If you arrive in Niagara Falls on Friday night, wait until Saturday or Sunday morning to jump on the Hornblower Niagara and catch different angles of the Falls. You’ll still want to see the Falls at night!

1. Arrive at the Airport and Head to Niagara Falls

To start day 1, it really depends on what time you arrive for your Niagara Falls visit and what time of year it is. If you don’t get started with your Niagara Falls weekend until Friday night, don’t worry you’ll still be able to see everything on this Niagara Falls itinerary. You’ll just have to switch a few things around (which I’ll note when we come to them) and you may be a little more tired on your flight home Sunday night.

If you arrive at night, head to the Falls to see them all lit up under artificial lights, shining blue, red, green and every color under the rainbow. It’s a pretty cool sight to see and it gives you a different perspective of the majestic Falls.

Whether you arrived at night or during the day, you’ll want to catch the Falls on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday night for a special fireworks display !

If you arrive during the day, you’ll be happy to know that seeing the Falls doesn’t take that much time and you can knock out a ton of different angles in just a few hours. But take your time and take it in, because these Falls are incredible.

2. Jump on Hornblower Niagara

If you’re lucky enough to begin your Niagara Falls weekend early on a Friday, I suggest you drop your bags wherever you’re staying and head directly toward the Hornblower Niagara! Getting this in on Friday means you won’t have to wake up at the crack of dawn Saturday or Sunday to beat the crowds of people swarming here.

The Hornblower is the boat that takes off from the Canadian banks of the Niagara River and sails you directly toward the three Falls that make up Niagara (American, Bridal Veil and Horseshoe). After smoothly sailing by American and Bridal Veil Falls, Hornblower gets you up close and personal with Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the three that spans 2,700 feet wide and 167 feet high.

The boat takes you near the spinning whirlpool vortex at the base of Horseshoe, exposing you to the pouring waters of the Niagara River flowing over its rocky spine. You will get wet, so wear that poncho with pride!

Seeing Niagara Falls from the Hornblower boat is the best way because you get to experience it as well. You get to bask in its waters and stand at the bottom of the Falls gazing upward toward the most-visited waterfall in the world.

3. Catch Different Angles of Niagara Falls

From the paid, self-guided tour of Journey Behind the Falls to the free viewing points of Rambler’s Rest Pavilion , Niagara Falls View , Niagara Falls Viewpoint and Table Rock Viewing Area , you should take in Niagara Falls from as many different angles as possible.

Realistically, there’s no bad spot to view Niagara Falls from, so I highly recommend you start walking and get to as many as possible! But, if you’re flying home from the U.S., save going to the American side of the Falls for Sunday. It’ll be on your way and you won’t have to pay the international crossing fee twice.

4. Explore Downtown Niagara and Surrounding Area

There are truly three parts of Niagara: the touristy area where there are lots of flashing lights, restaurants, game rooms and even a Ferris wheel and go-kart track; the casino district just south of the touristy area, which has, you guessed it, a lot of casinos; and the locals-centric downtown Niagara, where you can find bars, eateries and coffee shops filled with locals and a few tourists.

While you’ll need a car or ride-sharing service to get to downtown Niagara, the other two areas can be (and are better when) explored on foot. If you’re into casinos, head to that area for one night and take it all in.

I’m not much of a casino dweller, so I walked through during the day to check it out and spent most of the nights walking the streets of the touristy area, grabbing food, drinks and checking out what the shops have to offer.

Day 2 (Saturday)

If you arrived at Niagara Falls late Friday night, hold off on the rental car and head straight for the Hornblower Niagara boat first thing in the morning to beat the crowds. The Hornblower is an absolute must when planning a trip to Niagara Falls.

Once you pick up the rental car, you can either go straight to Niagara-on-the-Lake or hit a hiking trail. If you hike first, it’ll make the wine taste a little better and give you a reason to splurge on the impeccable food!

1. Pick Up Rental Car

This one’s pretty self-explanatory, but picking up a rental car is key. It allows you to get out of Niagara Falls and explore more of what the region has to offer. I booked my rental car a day in advance and still paid just $7 USD per day.

You can try your luck with booking a rental the day before if you’d like. There are plenty of rental car companies in Niagara Falls, so you may be able to get a cheaper rate since they’ll just want to make some money.

2. Take a Hike

Niagara Falls, Ontario may not be known for its hiking trails, but there are a ton of trails with some pretty spectacular views all across the region. My recommendation is to go to nearby Niagara Glen Nature Center and Park and hike the Niagara Whirlpool Loop .

That’s a pretty easy hiking trail (3.4 miles and about 1.5 hours) that starts on the top of the cliff overlooking the Niagara River before taking you down to its aqua blue banks for about 2.5 miles. Hiking first thing in the morning will make the wine taste better! (More on that later.)

3. Explore Niagara-On-The-Lake

After picking up the rental car and taking your morning hike, drive 30 minutes north to Niagara-on-the-Lake, where a bustling town with streets lined with old 19th-century buildings and tall green trees sits on the banks of Lake Ontario.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is the heart of Ontario’s wine country, boasting nearly 40 wineries within its city limits. After enjoying a nice lunch (with a glass of wine on the side), you’re ready to experience wine country!

4. Go to a Winery

There are plenty of wineries to choose from (and even a wine bike tour that see you riding a rented bicycle down the streets of backcountry Ontario stopping at a handful of wineries), I highly suggest going to Konzelmann Estate Winery .

It’s the only winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake that sits directly on the banks of Lake Ontario and is open to the public. The wine is tremendous and the views are spectacular! Ontario is known for its famous ice wine, which is a sweet dessert wine made from grapes that withstand the harsh Ontario winter.

If you want to see different wineries in the area (there are more than 100 in the region) check out Wine Country Ontario for a full list of wineries and breakdown of each region’s claim to fame.

Day 3 (Sunday)

1. hike the american side of falls.

After dropping off the rental car and before heading back home, there’s still one thing you must do before leaving Niagara Falls: check out the lesser-visited American side. It’s home to Niagara State Park and Goat Island, which each offer unique views of the Falls and excellent hiking trails.

It also has the Maid of the Mist (the equivalent to the Hornblower Niagara) and an excursion that allows you to walk right up to Bridal Veil and American Falls (similar to Journey Behind the Falls).

2. Head to the Airport

Unfortunately, this is the time you bid adieu to Niagara Falls, the spectacular sights it offers and the diversity in its wine regions and scenic hikes. If you’re like me, you’ll probably find yourself back in the Niagara Falls region again sometime in your life.

What Is the Best Airport to Fly Into for Niagara Falls?

For Americans planning a trip to Niagara Falls (or if you’re flying from the United States), the closest airport to fly into is the Niagara Falls Airport. However, it’s a two-terminal airport so most flights will be routed to nearby Buffalo. It’s only a $4 1.5-hour ride by public bus or a 45-minute drive by car .

If you’re a Canadian flying in to see the Falls, the closest airport is in Toronto, which will then require a 1.5-hour drive or bus ride into Niagara Falls.

• Coleman Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag
• Timber Ridge 6-Person Instant Tent
• Alpcour Folding Camping Cot
• Sleepingo Inflatable Sleeping Pad
• Osprey Stratos 24 Hiking Backpack
• Columbia Redmond Waterproof Hiking Boots
• Merino.tech Merino Wool Hiking Shirt
• Fun Toes Merino Wool Hiking Socks
• Canon EOS Rebel T7i Camera

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2 Days in Niagara Falls – The 12 Best Things To Do

Niagara Falls Canada is the perfect weekend getaway destination.  Discover how to visit all of the best sites in Niagara Falls with this fun-filled 2-day itinerary.

Table of Contents

2-Day Niagara Falls Itinerary

• See the natural wonder of Horseshoe Falls .
• Get even closer on a Journey Behind the Falls .
• Visit the beautiful Butterfly Conservatory .
• Check out the mesmerizing Night Show “Currents” at the Power Station.
• Get soaked on the Hornblower Cruise right up to the Falls OR ride high (and dry) along the ZipLine .
• Learn about the power of water at the Niagara Falls Power Station .
• Visit Clifton Hill’s attractions and ride the SkyWheel .
• In the evening, try your luck at Niagara casinos .
• Take a White Water Walk along the Niagara River OR soar high over the river aboard the Whirlpool Aero Car .
• Learn more about Niagara’s history by visiting the local Museum and battlefield.

For a 2-day visit to Niagara Falls, we recommend purchasing the Niagara Falls Wonder Pass Plus .  This handy pass covers several of the tourist sites that are administered by Niagara Parks.

Map of Niagara Falls Attractions

12 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls Canada

Horseshoe falls, journey behind the falls, niagara butterfly conservatory, hornblower cruise to the falls, zipline to the falls, niagara parks power station.

• Clifton Hill District

Niagara SkyWheel

Casinos at niagara falls, white water walk, whirlpool aero car, niagara falls history.

The best place to view Niagara Falls is just outside of the Table Rock Welcome Centre. 

From this viewpoint, peer right over the edge of these impressive falls.  At Horseshoe Falls, the water of the Niagara River drops 55 metres over the edge of the resistant dolostone bedrock. The force of the water has dug a 30-metre-deep plunge pool at the base of the falls. Gradually, the power of the water is breaking away these soft lower rocks and moving the falls southward as much as 1 metre a year.  This rate has slowed to centimetres a year since large amounts of water are diverted for hydroelectric power generation. 

To admire both Horseshoe Falls and the American Falls , located across the river gorge, walk north from the Welcome Centre on the sidewalk beside the Niagara Parkway.

The 12-kilometre-long Niagara Gorge traces the path of the falls over the last 12,000 years from Queenston to its current spot. The rocks of the sides of the gorge are 400 million years old.

For an up-close view of Niagara Falls, take the ‘Journey Behind the Falls’ located at the Welcome Centre.

An elevator descends 38 metres to tunnels drilled into the bedrock.  Exit the elevator at the Lower Observation Deck, right beside the roaring falls.  Get a little wet, but it’s a lot of fun. (They supply rain ponchos too!)

A network of tunnels, carved over 100 years ago, leads to two portals.  The Cataract Portal and the Great Falls Portal are located directly behind the falls.  Feel the power of the falls up close.

The large, glass-walled conservatory is home to over 2000 vibrantly-coloured butterflies.

It is an incredible sight as over 45 different species flutter all around you in this amazing, warm, tropical environment.

There are over 180 metres of meandering pathways along water features and beds of tropical vegetation.  Feeding tray stations are throughout the building, allowing an up-close look at the butterflies.

Through an observation window, see the “nursery” where the young butterflies hang in their pupae stage, just before they hatch and take off for their first-ever flights.

After the Butterfly Conservatory, enjoy a visit to the surrounding Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.

Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens

The gardens are 40 hectares of beautiful landscapes. There are several walking trails between the different areas including a tree arboretum, a herb garden, and finally, an amazing rose garden with over 2,400 roses.

The Niagara Parks School of Horticulture is located on the grounds. Students learn about the science of horticulture and contribute to the grounds-keeping of the Botanical Gardens.

This is a must-do, signature attraction.

The 20-minute boat tour travels right up to the natural wonder, Niagara Falls.  See both the American Falls and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls on this unforgettable journey. Be prepared to hear the roar (and get soaked).

The Hornblower Cruise to the Falls is located at the base Clifton Hill.

Note: The original “The Maid of the Mist” tour company only operates from the American side of the border. It does not operate from the Canada anymore.

This is the attraction for the thrill seekers. Get ready to be strapped in and soar.  At the WildPlay ZipLine, ride four parallel ziplines on a 670-metre ride along the Niagara River gorge toward Niagara Falls. Hit speeds of up to 70 km/h before the ride ends at the Falls observation landing platform.

The Niagara Parks Power Station is an impressive museum.  This station was in operation for 100 years before being decommissioned in 2006.

Its displays show how electricity was generated using the power of the Niagara River. We were amazed to learn that 50-75% of the Niagara River’s water gets diverted and passes through various hydroelectric plants, before returning to the river downstream.

Most of the original equipment remains in place, including the huge generator units, each with a capacity of 10,000 horsepower.

In 2022, access to the river’s edge was added. Ride the glass-panelled elevator down 55 metres and explore the 670-metre long tunnel to the river. Imagine the excavation of this tunnel 100+ years ago with possibly unstable dynamite, pickaxes and shovels.

‘Currents’ Night Show

When evening arrives, the Niagara Parks Power Station stages an impressive performance.  The station comes alive with an amazing light and sound show.  This interactive experience presents an historic story. Travel from the Ice Age all the way through to the present, where the power plant’s machinery comes alive to transform water to power.  It’s an exhilarating sensory experience.

Clifton Hill

For more fun things to do, check out the attractions around the Clifton Hill district.  The street has the usual touristy stops including wax museums, haunted houses, arcades, candy stores and souvenir shops.

The street has improved a lot from its ‘kitschy’ roots still visible just a few years ago.  There are several great restaurant options along both Clifton Hill and Victoria Avenue.

Kids love Dinosaur Adventure Park , a mini-golf course, playing their way through any amazing collection of enormous dinosaurs.

Next door is Niagara Speedway , a stupendous go-cart track. Race up to speeds of 32 km/h.  Be ready to slow down on the four-story helical spiral and climb up 40 feet.  The course is impressive, covering four acres.

Don’t miss Locomoland , an amazing, miniature, remote-controlled railway system.  Watch the trains travelling through different scenes and landscapes.

The easiest way locate Clifton Hill is to look for the big SkyWheel.

The Niagara SkyWheel is Canada’s largest observation wheel. During this fun, 8 to 12-minute ride, sit in comfortable gondolas climbing more than 50 metres above Niagara Falls. See both the American and Horseshoe Falls. For a different perspective, ride the wheel at night, and view the Niagara skyline and the flashing lights of Clifton Hill’s attractions below.

There are two Casinos in Niagara Falls:

• Fallsview Casino Resort
• Casino Niagara

Fallsview Casino is a world-class gaming resort. They boast a gaming action area of approximately three football fields with over 3,000 slot machines and another 130 gaming tables. The resort has several restaurants and a shopping mall.  For entertainment, two large theatres (with seating for 5000 and 1500 patrons) host many lives shows during the year.

Overlooking Horseshoe Falls, Fallsview Resort also has a luxury hotel with a fitness centre, spa and convention space.

Casino Niagara was the first casino in Niagara Falls.  It has 1,300 slot machines and 40 gaming tables. Although only about half the size of Fallsview, patrons enjoy the many card games, promotions, and its three restaurants.

On the White Water Walk, get up close to the roaring, whitewater rapids of the Niagara River.

The elevator descends 70 metres to the shore of the Niagara River. From the exit tunnel, walk the 400-metre boardwalk along the river’s edge.

With several viewing platforms, there are great views, and photo opportunities, of the 400-million-year-old Niagara Gorge and the rushing river. The waters of these dangerous Class 6 rapids flow by at an impressive speed of 48 km/h.

Another great way to see the Niagara River is from above, on the Whirlpool Aero Car.

This Aero Car is an historic tourist attraction, in operation since 1916.  For the last 100 years, the Aero Car has carried visitors across the gorge with the swirling Niagara Whirlpool below. The area around the whirlpool has been a tourist attraction for a long time.  In the late 1800s, this was the site of an inclined railway which took tourists from the top of the gorge to the rapids below.

The suspended Aero Car crosses the gorge between Thompson Point and Sinclair Point, 70 metres above the rapids. The whirlpool is formed, as the rushing waters from the rapids make a sharp turn at the gorge wall, causing the rapids to turn in a counterclockwise direction.

Due to the nature of the winding river, the cable car actually crosses the Canada-USA border a total of four times. Luckily no one needs to show a passport.

One more interesting fact? It is believed that Niagara Falls was at this spot about 4,000 years ago.

Visit the Niagara Falls History Museum . Learn about the area’s history, playing a significant role during the War of 1812.  At the museum, there are several displays describing the war.  Try on a replica soldier’s uniform and hold a heavy musket.

The museum has historical photos of Niagara Falls’ development into today’s tourist destination.

For a walking tour of the area, pick up a Walking Tour brochure on exiting the museum (or use the online Lundy’s Lane Walking Tour pdf).

This 1.7-kilometre walking tour covers several sites including the nearby Drummond Hill Cemetery.  The cemetery is the location the “Battle of Lundy’s Lane”.  Historians consider it one of the bloodiest battles of the War of 1812.  The brochure and nearby plaques provide further details about the battle.

Is there anything to do at Niagara Falls in the Winter?

Yes.  The Falls themselves are beautiful in the winter.  All of the indoor attractions remain open year-round.  Plus, with fewer crowds, it is much more enjoyable.

For outdoor activities, the Winter Festival of Lights turns Niagara Falls into a winter wonderland.  During the holiday season, see beautiful illuminated displays all along the Niagara Parkway.

Additionally, the Winter Festival of Lights Fireworks is Canada’s longest running fireworks series.

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Andy is the co-founder of Avrex Travel, where he shares his many travel experiences. Andy enjoys videography and creating great Road Trips for his readers.

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The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

10 Essential Niagara Falls Tips: Everything You Need to Plan Your Trip!

Last Updated on: 19th June 2023, 06:40 pm

Are you planning a trip to Niagara Falls or thinking about scheduling a visit?

This North American wonder situated on the border of New York State in the US and Ontario in Canada is the perfect outdoor weekend getaway.

Whether you road trip to Niagara Falls or visit on a day trip, there’s so much to do here! Here are my best Niagara Falls tips to help you plan your Niagara Falls getaway. 

So if you’re looking for how to plan a trip to Niagara Falls, look no further!

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My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2024

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Things to Know Before Visiting Niagara Falls

Here are my best tips for planning a visit to Niagara Falls!

Things to Know about the Niagara Falls Waterfalls

Niagara Falls is three separate waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls (Canadian Falls), American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

While Horseshoe Falls is the most impressive and famous, it’s the only one of the three on the Canadian.

You can see all three Niagara waterfalls from either side of the border, so whether you choose to visit Niagara Falls, New York, or Niagara Falls, Ontario, you won’t miss out on these gorgeous waterfalls!

Know Which Side of the Border You are Planning on Staying

While many people can cross between New York to Ontario (or vice versa), not everyone can. Further, there are times when the border might be closed.

This means it’s important to know which side of the border you want to stay on and choose accommodations and tours that are on this side of the falls.

During normal times, many people will plan to visit both sides of the falls on a trip, but you still want to think through if you will stay in the US or Canada. 

Which side is better? They are both great! New York has a state park right at the falls, so it’s better for nature lovers and people who want to hike.

If you want to experience the kitschier version of Niagara Falls, you can still cross over and visit the Canadian side as long as the border is open and you have the proper documentation.

Splurge for a Hotel Room with a View

If you can afford it, spring for a room with a view! Niagara Falls is stunning from above, and you won’t regret waking up to a scene like this every day!

You Might Need a Passport and a Visa to Visit Niagara Falls

If you do want to spend time on both sides, you will need the correct documentation to cross over. You should check your government for entry rules.

If you are an American wanting to visit the Canadian side, you can start with my guide to planning a trip to Canada  and make sure to check with the State Department’s guidelines for traveling to Canada for current Canada travel advisories and rules about getting an eTa for entry.  

Even if you are staying in New York and want to cross the border for a day trip, you will still need to ensure the border is open, bring your passport, and check to see if you need to get an eTa ahead of time.

For Canadians who want to cross over into New York, you need to check the Canadian government’s USA travel page for rules and entry requirements.

If you are planning on visiting Niagara Falls and you are a citizen of a country other than the US or Canada, check with your government.

Just keep in mind that if you want to visit both countries, you will need to check the required documentation for both separately. The US and Canada do not form a continuous travel block and have different entry requirements.

Plan Your Cell Phone and Data Needs in Advance

On my last trip to Canada, I tried to purchase a prepaid sim card and found out that having prepaid data for four days was going to cost me over $100!

Whether you live in the US, Canada, or abroad, make sure to preplan your data so that you don’t end up without coverage for part of your trip. You also want to avoid roaming fees, which can be quite expensive.

Start by checking with your home provider to find out how much international data would be.

It’s possible that if you are an American staying on the New York side and only want to see Canada for one day, that it might not be worth getting data for such a short amount of time. You can always seek out wifi when necessary.

Plan Your Niagara Falls Activities Ahead of Time

Something I didn’t realize beforehand was just how long the lines are for some of the most popular attractions.

You don’t want to leave it to the last minute to book or you could find yourself having to miss out on some of the things you want to do the most!

The 3 Best Niagara Falls Tours that Leave from the New York Side

Because of the different tours available on each side of the border, you need to pay attention to where your tour leaves from and pick the one closest to you.

Here are the most popular activities in Niagara Falls that leave from the American side. You can also use this list of Niagara Falls New York tours to see if there’s something more unique you’d like to do.

See all New York Niagara Falls Tours

The Maid of the Mist Boat Tour is iconic for a reason. If you are staying in New York, this is the boat ride you want to book!

The Maid of the Mist is blue and can be seen from above the falls. The boat gets up close and personal, so dress to get wet! The quintessential Niagara Falls Experience!

Check availability, reviews, and pricing.

If you want a little more drama on the water, you can a Lewiston Jet-Boat Tour that gets you even closer to the water by speeding you through the Class 5 rapids of the Niagara River. Adrenaline lovers, take note!

Check availability, reviews, and pricing .

One of the best parts of going to Niagara Falls is seeing the falls lit up at night! Check out this Niagara Falls, USA: Night Illumination Tour to see the best angles of the falls at night.

The 3 Best Niagara Falls Tours that Leave from the Canadian Side

The Canada side offers different tours. Here are the most popular. You can also use this list of Canada Niagara Falls tours to see if there’s something more unique you’d like to do.

See all Canadian Niagara Falls Tours

The Voyage to the Falls is the Canadian side’s answer to the Maid of the Mist.

This is the most popular tour to do on the Canadian side and a can’t-miss. Book your tour along with other great Niagara Falls sightseeing!

Another important tour you won’t want to miss on the Canadian side is the Journey Behind the Falls where you can get behind them and appreciate the falls from a whole new perspective.

If you’re interested in experiencing the Niagara River’s rapids, you can do so on the Niagara River Jet-Boat Tour.

Other Things to Do in Niagara Falls

The greater Niagara region is a great place to explore if you have time! You can learn about the history of the local Underground Railroad, try Ice Wine, visit Amish country , go shopping for Niagara Falls souvenirs, and more!

There’s enough here to spend at least a long weekend away, though you could stay even longer!

Read next: 17 Perfect Niagara Falls Souvenirs & Gifts that Belong in Your Suitcase!

What to Do in Niagara Falls at Night

Besides enjoying a nice dinner, the falls are a great attraction for visitors who want something beautiful (and even romantic) to do at night.

They are lit up in neon colors, making them visible after dark. You can even catch fireworks displays above the falls during certain summer nights!

If you like going on tours at night (like I do!), you should check out the best tours of Niagara Falls at night.

Check reviews, prices, and availability.

5 Things to Pack for Your Trip to Niagara Falls

The   Lonely Planet New York  or  Lonely Planet Canada   guidebook (depending on your plans). It can be kind of a pain to find the major guidebooks once you land, or you’ll find them overpriced. I always like to pick mine up ahead of time.

Backup Charging Bank  for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS, and general travel genie.

A Camera  since Niagara Falls is super photogenic. I use a mix of my  Nikon D810  and my   Samsung8  smartphone these days.

A Waterproof Passport Holder so that if something happens while you are on a tour or near the falls, your passport doesn’t get wet. I’ve seen people denied boarding on flights due to wet passports, and you can technically not be allowed to go over the border. 

A Great Day Bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc).

My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe , which is especially great for Niagara Falls because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets.

It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day. 

More Niagara Falls Travel Resources

If you are still in the process of planning your trip, check out my  Niagara Falls itinerary . Once you’re there, you can use these great  Niagara Falls quotes  and  Niagara Falls puns  for photo captions and statuses, plus check out these ideas for Niagara Falls souvenirs.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for Niagara Falls make sure you have a valid  Travel  Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I pay for  World Nomads,  and I happily recommend them. It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’ll be hanging out in popular tourist spots like Niagara Falls.

I have been a paying customer of  World Nomads  for travel insurance for four years, and I happily recommend them.  If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you’ll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what’s stolen or broken.

Pin these Niagara Falls Tips for Your Travels!

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How to plan the perfect niagara falls vacation.

Niagara Falls is a stunning natural attraction that many travelers can’t wait to see. Not only is it an incredible example of how nature and landscape collide, but it’s also a destination packed with things to do and see, making a great weekend getaway or mini family vacation.

Add to that the fact that you can stay in a hotel room overlooking the falls, and visit numerous breweries and wineries in the area, and you have a destination that’s both exciting and relaxing whether it’s for a long weekend or a day trip from another part of New York State .

As there are so many attractions competing for your attention when planning a Niagara Falls vacation, we wanted to make it easier for you to decide what things to prioritize by giving you a “what not to miss” list.

There are numerous tours available that let you experience these majestic waterfalls in a variety of ways. Many require advanced tickets, so make sure to plan ahead. It’s also a good idea to read up on practical tips for visiting Niagara Falls as you’re planning.

Planning your trip to Niagara Falls?

• Rent a car  from the airport through  Discover Cars .

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls:

• Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor or Book on Expedia
• Niagara Falls Marriott on the Falls | ⇒Read reviews on Trip Advisor or Book on Expedia
• Sheraton Niagara Falls | ⇒Read reviews on Trip Advisor or Book on Expedia

Best Tours and Experiences in Niagara Falls:

• Niagara Falls American-Side Tour with Maid of the Mist – Half-day Niagara Falls tour, Ride on the Maid of the Mist, visit famous attractions like Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls
• Niagara Falls in 1 Day: Tour of American and Canadian Sides – Get the full experience from both sides of the border.
• Niagara-on-the-Lake wine tour with lunch – This is a really fun and unique wine region to visit. You’ll stop at 5 wineries on this tour, plus lunch.

» Looking for more travel inspiration in the United States ? See our U.S. Summer Vacation Ideas and 12 U.S. National Parks to Visit . Here are a few more fabulous U.S. Cities to visit .

Table of Contents

What is Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is a group of large waterfalls that are located in the Niagara River on the eastern coast of the United States and Canada . They are located on the border between the two countries, and are composed of three waterfalls.

Niagara Falls is made up of three waterfalls – Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and American Falls. These three waterfalls span between Canada and the United States.

The falls were formed during the melt-off of the last Ice Age (around 12,000 years ago), when the extreme flow of water formed the falls. During the height of summer and fall run-off periods, there are more than 700,000 gallons of water flowing over the falls per second.

You can approach the falls from either side. That means that if you’re an American you won’t need a passport to visit the falls, and vice versa for the Canadians.  You can just stay on your own side.

How Do I Get to Niagara Falls?

There are two airports you can fly into within close proximity to Niagara Falls. There’s the Toronto airport on the Canadian side, and the Buffalo, NY, airport on the U.S. side.

From Toronto Airport, the drive to the falls is about a 1.5-hour drive. From Buffalo, the drive is around 30 minutes. I do advise renting a car because it will be so much easier for you to get around, but it’s not entirely necessary.

There is a train station in Niagara Falls that you can come into from Toronto, New York, or other close by cities. Once in Niagara Falls, as long as you’re staying within the main tourist area, you can walk or cab to just about everything.

When to Do a Niagara Falls Vacation

Niagara Falls State Park is open 365 days a year. In fact, it never closes. However, some of the attractions do close during the winter period when conditions are poor. 

Summer months are extremely crowded at the falls and you’ll end up spending more money due to high season prices. So, we recommend visiting Niagara Falls during the fall or spring, if possible. These are the shoulder months, so you won’t have to fight crowds or overspend on accommodations.

Some key info about the weather:

• Summer months average high temperature ranges between 70F and 80F
• Fall peak foliage happens typically in the third week of October and it’s a beautiful time to visit the falls
• In winter, some attractions may be closed, but the falls are really beautiful when shrouded in ice

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls

As mentioned, there is a Canadian and United States side to the falls. You can stay on either side and there are great hotels and restaurants in both areas.

One of the main reasons for going to Niagara Falls is for the view, so I highly recommend splurging for a hotel that has a view. I personally love the Hilton Niagara Falls. Here’s a list of a few others I would recommend that have great views (click to see room rates):

• Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites | Read reviews on Trip Advisor or Book on Expedia
• Niagara Falls Marriott on the Falls | Read reviews on Trip Advisor or Book on Expedia
• Sheraton Niagara Falls | Read reviews on Trip Advisor or Book on Expedia
• Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview | Read reviews on Trip Advisor or Book on Expedia

Niagara Falls Tours

One of the best ways to see all aspects of the falls without putting in a ton of effort to coordinate everything is to book an organized tour. Here are a few that we recommend.

• Best of Niagara Falls Tour from Niagara Falls, Ontario – this is a 5-hour comprehensive tour of the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, including a trip up Skylon Tower, the Journey Behind the Falls excursion, and the Hornblower cruise.
• Niagara Falls American Side Highlights Tour – this 4-hour tour includes Prospect Point Observation Tower, the Maid of the Mist boat tour, and Cave of the Winds on-land tour. You’ll visit Bridal Veil Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Goat Island, and the Mighty Whirlpool.
• For a change of pace, we also recommend doing a Niagara-on-the-Lake wine tour with lunch . This is a really fun and unique wine region to visit. You’ll stop at 5 wineries on this tour, plus lunch.

6 Best Ways to Experience the Falls

Getting a close-up look at the falls, where you can see AND feel the full majesty of the powerful falls is likely your top priority when visiting Niagara Falls, so we want to make that as easy as possible for you. Check out these places to go for the best views of  Niagara Falls , so you can make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories.

Float Right Up to the Falls

From the Canadian side of the Falls, take the Hornblower Niagara Cruise . It is a great way to enjoy the river, as well as the actual waterfalls. The boat trip takes you up the river past the waterfalls on the American side and into the gorge that contains the spectacular Horseshoe Fall. Once there you get to go within a few feet of all that roaring water. It is a great way to experience the power and the majesty of the falls.

At certain times of the year, you can enjoy an illumination or fireworks cruise. Being right next to the Falls when they are lit up by colorful lights really is a memorable experience.

Go Behind the Falls

If you want to get even closer, take the Journey Behind the Falls tour. During this tour, you take an elevator 150 feet down into 130-year-old tunnels. From there you can walk out onto a observation deck that puts you behind the Horseshoe Falls and its raging stream of water falling at over 40 miles per hour. You’ll need to put on your bright yellow poncho to keep from getting soaked from the mist coming off the falls.

See the Falls from Above

As you’ve already seen, there are many observation towers and points from which you can get a bird´s eye view of the Falls. Since the Falls are the main attraction, and no doubt the major reason you visited this area, you should see it from as many angles as possible.

One of the best is from above, at the Skylon tower, on the Canadian side. At the Skylon Tower Observation Deck ( get tickets in advance here) , you’ll be 775 feet above the falls. The deck is so high that you can see 8,000 square miles of Canada and the U.S from this vantage point.

If you like fine dining you will really enjoy the world-class food that is served in the revolving restaurant. Plus, staying for a meal is a great way to enjoy the view for longer. There are a few other attractions to enjoy in the Skylon Tower , including a family fun center, a 3D/4D movie about the falls, and a glass-blowing gallery.

Walk Alongside the Falls

If you’ve ever been white water rafting, then you can probably imagine the power and force of Class 6 rapids. Walking alongside the river will give you an up-close view of just how powerful these rapids are.

On the White Water Walk , you’ll be able to walk a quarter mile along the boardwalk that follows the base of the gorge. It gives you a unique view of the rock layers that form the gorge, and you can stop off at viewing platforms for an even closer view of the water raging by. Tickets are approximately $17 for adults.

Panoramic Falls Views

Another fascinating way to see the Falls from a different angle is on the Niagara Skywheel. This Ferris wheel glides up to 175 feet over the Clifton Hill area, and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the falls and the city below. From the ride, you’ll glimpse unique views of both the Horseshoe and American Falls.

The gondolas are small, built for 2-4 people, and are fully enclosed and air-conditioned. It’s always best to purchase tickets in advance for the ride so you can skip the line. The ride lasts about 10 minutes. Tickets are approximately $13 for adults.

The Niagara Skywheel isn’t the only tourist attraction located in Clifton Hill. In fact, this area is one of the busiest, because it’s packed with touristy activities. Whether you’ll want to visit any of them is a matter of personal preference, but you can find things like midway games, a wax museum, a mini-golf course, a 6D theater ride, and tons of touristy chain restaurants.

Niagara Falls History Museum

After seeing the Falls for yourself, a visit to the Niagara Falls History Museum is a nice way to follow up and learn more. This museum contains exhibits that tell you about the history of the area, its people, geology, and industry, as well as the waterfalls themselves.

Where to Eat in Niagara Falls

You only have to take a short walk from your Niagara Falls Hotel to find dozens of restaurants and bars right on your doorstep. Here are a few of our favorites.

Top of the Falls Restaurant

Overlooking Terrapin Point on Goat Island, the panoramic restaurant overlooks Niagara Falls, boasting jaw-dropping views of the Horseshoe Falls. Top of the Falls Restaurant has partnered with Taste NY to promote local flavors. Read reviews

Wine on Third

We love this little wine bar downtown, with its Spanish tapas. It’s in a great spot to grab a pre-dinner wine and stay for a few tapas for dinner. Read reviews

Prime Steakhouse

Sit down for an upscale dinner at Prime Steakhouse where you’ll get a premium steak with a premium view of the falls. Read reviews

Niagara Breweries

You can also explore the area’s budding craft brewery scene, which has been growing steadily since 2010, with a handful of breweries and brew pubs in the area. Food trucks are also starting to become more prevalent in Niagara.

One of the best ways to enjoy a plethora of craft beer from Niagara is on a brewery tour. We liked this Luxury Craft Beer Tour in Niagara . The tour includes a stop at 4 breweries with tastings at each and a behind-the-scenes tour at one of the breweries, plus a knowledgeable driver/guide and luxury transportation, so you don’t have to drive yourself.

Niagara Brewing Company

Go here to taste the craft beers; be sure to try the BeerDevil IPA, and Irish Red Ale. For a lighter option, definitely get the Honeymoon Peach Radler. Stay for a casual lunch or nibbles to go with the beer. Read reviews

Counterpart Brewing

Located at the north end of Niagara Falls, Counterpart Brewing is a local craft brewery that opened in 2019. The beer is great and the food is also worthy of the visit.

Wine Tasting in Niagara Falls

Did you know that there are dozens of wineries within a very short distance of Niagara Falls in Niagara on the Lake? This wine region’s most prized export is the fruity, rich, and sweet ice wine, and there are award-winning vineyards and wineries all over this fastest-growing wine region in Canada where you can try the wines.

For wine enthusiasts, there are numerous wineries in the surrounding Niagara area in Ontario. Many of these wineries are open to the public for taste samples as well as tours of their orchards and facilities. If you haven’t tried ice wine made from frozen grapes picked in the middle of the Canadian winter, there’s ample opportunity to do so here in the Niagara region at both the wineries that make them as well as the many restaurants that feature them.

The best way to taste wines and experience Niagara on the Lake is on a wine tour. This is the tour we recommend , with Grape Escape Wine Tours. On this half-day, small-group wine tour, you’ll visit a few wineries and taste a large variety of wines including Ontario’s famous ice wine.

Another great way to see the wineries is on a Vine & Dine Bicycle Wine Tour , a relaxed pedal through the wineries of Niagara On The Lake, on a fully guided tour to 4 wineries and lunch.

Some wineries to make sure you visit:

• Chateau des Charmes
• Riverbend Inn and Vineyard
• Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery
• Wayne Gretzky Estates
• Jackson Triggs Estate Winery
• Konzelmann Estate Winery
• Inniskillin Wines

Food Events in Niagara Falls

When it comes to planning your trip, make sure your dates coincide with at least one of Niagara’s many food events. For a classic summer vibe during August, there’s  St. Catherine’s Ribfest in Montebello Park. Delicious racks of ribs from all across North America can be tasted and enjoyed in Niagara at the festival, with live bands every day and tons of activities to enjoy.

For some traditional good fun, you could head over to Niagara Lake for the Annual Peach Festival . Celebrating its 26 th this year, the festival pays tribute to growers and promoters of fresh peaches, and to ring in the yearly local peach harvest. Aside from the freshest produce on offer, there are also delicious bakery treats on every corner.

Don’t miss out on the Niagara Food & Wine Expo , which takes place each April. This is the premier international tasting event of the year; it features wines, beers, and spirits from across the world, and in particular, it gives Canada the chance to showcase some of its very best tipples. All of these tasty samples are served with fresh, local cuisine, to really enhance the experience and flavors.

Vacation Packages for Visting Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls offers a variety of vacation packages to make your trip unforgettable. Many packages include accommodations at renowned hotels with breathtaking views of the falls, such as the Marriott Fallsview or the Sheraton on the Falls.

Some packages combine accommodation with popular attractions like the Hornblower boat tour, Journey Behind the Falls, or the Butterfly Conservatory . You can also find packages that include dining vouchers for the fantastic restaurants overlooking the falls.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, these vacation packages make it easy to experience the splendor of Niagara Falls while enjoying great savings and convenience.

Niagara Falls Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re wondering whether Niagara Falls is somewhere you’ll enjoy visiting, you might want to read this feedback we received from visitors to the park. This can offer some insight into what you’ll find and whether it’s worth it.

Was Niagara Falls worth visiting?

The falls themselves have an undeniable dramatic beauty that draws in the crowds. The ever popular Maid of the Mist boat ride that takes tourists directly into the falls is truly thrilling. The town of Niagara Falls, Ontario has a certain dilapidated charm. As you stroll along Queen Victoria Park facing the falls on the Canadian side, you cannot help but get a sense of what it must have been like to visit in more innocent times; before it became overly touristy. You can still catch a glimpse of its splendor if you don’t look too closely at the kitsch. Go for the natural beauty, and skip the man-made attractions.

What are the most recommended attractions?

Hands down the Maid of the Mist boat tour was suggested as the must-do activity. Several people also pointed out that this was the best way to view the falls for those who were not able to go to the Canadian side because of visa re-entry issues. The Cave of the Winds tour , which takes you by elevator to the bottom of the falls, got high marks for those who preferred not to take a boat ride. The Niagara Falls Grand Helicopter Tour also got raves. The nighttime illumination of the falls got mixed reviews, with some calling it “stunning”, while others found it “tacky”.

How long should you plan for a visit to Niagara Falls?

The amount of time you should spend in Niagara Falls depends on what you plan to do there. If you just want to see the falls and maybe go on the Maid of the Mist boat tour or the Cave of the Winds tour, you can probably do it in a day. If you want to do other things in the area, like wine tasting and a helicopter tour, you will need a few days.

When is the best time to go to Niagara Falls?

Not surprisingly most people visited Niagara Falls in the summer. The few who did go in the winter said they were impressed by the falls surrounded by ice, but expressed regret that they could not go on the Maid of the Mist (it stops running in October). You should not go to Niagara in the winter unless you are prepared for the cold. Going in the fall will enable you to enjoy the foliage in Upstate New York along the way.

If possible, we recommend including a stop in Niagara Falls on a visit to Toronto for a great long weekend trip from New York or Boston . Chances are you will not be disappointed in a trip to Niagara Falls if you go when you are prepared for the weather, do not stay more than two days, and do not have high expectations of the attractions outside of those related to the falls.

As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy Niagara Falls from all angles. When planning a trip to Niagara Falls, you can be sure you’ll see it all with these activities. And don’t worry about the views getting old – that’s impossible. What are your favorite ways to see Niagara Falls? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments.

Quick. Check these necessities off your prep list!

• There’s no one-size-fits-all travel insurance . Get a personalized quote from Yonder .
• The right luggage can make or break your trip. These luggage sets make traveling a breeze.
• Find your rental car on DiscoverCars.com . They search all major rental companies to find the best deal.

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

8 thoughts on “ How to Plan the Perfect Niagara Falls Vacation ”

We will be visiting Niagara Falls for the first time in June and wondering to go into Canada just to cross the border do you know if a passport is required? Thanks we will be traveling from Tupelo, MS

Hi Lisa. You do need a passport or a Nexus ID card to get across the border into Canada.

We are visiting in the next week or so, and was curious about the stuff to do. We want to do the Hornblower cruise, journey behind the falls, skylon Tower, butterfly place, and wanted to see whats the best way to do all of these. Should we plan on doing one each day, or several in one day.

So much to do in Niagara Falls! Great Article! Many of the activities can be done in one day – and the Niagara Parks Adventure pass is a great way to save on the admission cost & includes the WeGo bus access to help get to the various locations. https://www.theparenthoodadventures.com/family-travel-tips-niagara-falls-ontario-2019/ Have a great trip! Chip

Which attraction lets you view the Niagra Falls from behind?

Ayanna, it’s called Journey Behind the Falls.

This is interesting and makes my tour niagara falls new york too good,

I would like to receive travel guides in hardcopy for the falls on the Canadian side and all around.

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• Travel Resources

How to Spend a Weekend in Niagara Falls, Ontario

By: Author Jessica Lam

Posted on Published: October 16, 2019  - Last updated: September 20, 2023

Categories Ontario

Planning a weekend getaway in Niagara Falls during the fall season?

Niagara Falls may be more well known as a summer destination, but it’s actually a great place to visit year-round.

Being from Toronto, I’ve been to Niagara Falls plenty of times, but only during the summer.

I had the chance to visit during the fall for the first time and it was an absolute dream!

From the incredible fall foliage, to the milder weather, to the smaller crowds, Niagara Falls is a great spot for a weekend road trip getaway.

Here’s your ultimate 2 day itinerary to Niagara Falls , Ontario!

Hotels in Niagara Falls

If you do decide you want to stay overnight, book a stay at one of the  best hotels in Niagara Falls :

• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson : a cozy 3-star hotel located around the corner from Clifton Hill, perfect for families and couples, with free breakfast, an indoor pool, and a gym.
• Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview : a modern 3-star hotel located right by the Falls, with some rooms facing the Falls, as well as an indoor pool and fitness centre.
• Four Points by Sheraton Niagara Falls Fallsview : a contemporary 4-star hotel located right by the Falls, with some rooms facing the Falls. Also connected to a shopping centre, multiple restaurants, and an indoor pool.

Plan your Niagara Falls trip

If you’re planning a trip to the Niagara Region , you might enjoy these posts as well:

• Looking for the best activities to do? Check out these fun things to do in Niagara Falls and free things to do in Niagara Falls .
• Looking for the top places to eat? Here are the best restaurants in Niagara Falls .
• Spending a day at Niagara Falls? Here’s your perfect Niagara Falls day trip itinerary .
• Driving to Niagara? Check out my road trip tips , listen to the best podcasts for your road trip , and be sure to wear comfy road trip outfits .
• Staying overnight? Read up on my tips on finding the best Airbnbs !

If you’re coming from Toronto, you might want to check out this Toronto to Niagara Falls day tour by bus – it includes wine tasting, scenic photo stops, and free time to explore on your own!

If you’ll already be in Niagara Falls, this fun half-day wine tasting tour by bus takes you to 2 to 4 Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries, depending on the option you choose.

Though it is a little pricy, it is totally worth doing a scenic helicopter tour over Niagara Falls , especially if you’re looking to treat someone.

If you prefer something more adventurous, ziplining over the Niagara River Gorge is pretty epic!

Getting to and around Niagara Falls

So, is it better to drive or public transit to Niagara Falls?

Whether you’ll want to drive or take public transit honestly depends on what kind of trip you’re looking to have during your weekend getaway in Niagara Falls.

If you’re looking to stay in the main Clifton Hill/Horseshoe Falls area, you’re fine just taking GO Transit.

The main attractions won’t be more than 20 minutes walking distance from each other, and you can even take the WEGO Bus to all the popular attractions.

If you’re interested in exploring wineries at Niagara-on-the-Lake or exploring the various trails along the Niagara Gorge, you might prefer to drive instead.

Drive to Niagara Falls

I personally think the best way to get to and around Niagara Falls is by car – it’s about an hour and a half drive one-way with regular traffic.

Take the Gardiner Expressway west, then take the Queen Elizabeth Way all the way to Niagara Falls.

If you travel on a weekend or during the day, expect to find yourself in quite a bit of traffic on the way there – or try to leave as early as possible for your weekend trip!

Public transit to Niagara Falls

If you don’t want the hassle of having to bring your car around Niagara Falls, you can easily take GO Transit.

GO Transit to Niagara Falls

Traveling from Toronto to Niagara Falls via GO Transit is pretty simple, but expect to spend at least 4 hours roundtrip just commuting.

From Union Station , take the Lakeshore West train and get off at Burlington Station.

Take a short walk to the bus terminal and take the 12 bus to Niagara Falls.

Be sure to take the express bus – it’ll save you so  much time.

The commute costs about $16-18 per person one-way, and kids 12 and under ride for free.

How to get around Niagara Falls without a car

There’s a bus system in Niagara Falls that takes you to all the main tourist attractions called the WEGO , and it only costs $7.50 for a 24-hour pass and $12 for a 48-hour pass.

I’d definitely recommend the bus pass if you don’t have a car and plan on staying overnight, as not all attractions in Niagara Falls are walkable!

The bus stops at a bunch of popular hotels as well, which makes it easy to get back after a long day.

Weekend itinerary in Niagara Falls

Wander around clifton hill.

Your weekend in Niagara Falls isn’t complete without a visit to the marvellous Clifton Hill – there’s so much to do along this fun little street!

You could spend all day here, or even just a few hours, depending on how late you arrive in Niagara Falls.

You can check out all the carnival attractions, ride the Niagara SkyWheel , and ride around the Niagara Speedway Go Karts.

There’s also a ton of food spots and cool souvenir shops, like the Hershey and Coca Cola stores.

If you’re craving something sweet, grab a cone of Instagrammable soft serve at Sweet Jesus, one of the best Toronto ice cream spots !

Dinner at The Works

The Works is one of my fave burger chains here in Ontario, and they’ve got a location near Clifton Hill.

They have like a million different options for burgers, and you can customize everything from the bun to the patty.

I personally usually grab whatever the special is for that season, and this time it happened to be the Jurassic Pork BBQ Bacon (with deep fried bacon!)

If I want to be somewhat ~healthy~ I usually get the Hipster, which features caramelized onions, avocado, and havarti cheese.

The burgers come with your choice of side, and I always go for the spicy die cut chips.

For appetizers, definitely grab the Wrecking Balls (bacon-wrapped cheddar tater tots with bacon garlic aioli and bacon sticks).

If you don’t grab the Wrecking Balls, still ask for the amazing bacon garlic aioli for your chips!

I’ve also got a blog post all about the best restaurants in Niagara Falls if you’re looking for more great spots to eat!

LOCATION: 5717 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, ON

Watch the fireworks over the Falls

Fireworks happen every weekend (Friday through Sunday) and on holidays over Niagara Falls at 10 PM each night.

I had no idea that fireworks were a regular thing at Niagara Falls, and I unfortunately didn’t get to see them during my trip.

You should definitely make time to see the fireworks during your weekend trip in Niagara Falls – I’m sure they’re absolutely incredible to see in person!

Fly with Niagara Helicopters

If there’s anywhere you’re going to do a scenic helicopter ride, why not Niagara Falls?

You get to fly over the Niagara Falls and capture its beauty at every angle from above.

Horseshoe Falls actually has the largest flow of water in the world, rushing down at 750,000 gallons per second!

I’d definitely recommend going bright and early in the morning, because the lines get long pretty quickly, even during the fall season.

Also wear warmer layers, because the wind from the helicopter can get pretty chilly.

Though it is a little pricy, it is totally worth doing the helicopter tour over Niagara Falls , especially if you’re looking to treat someone.

LOCATION: 3731 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, ON

Get under the falls with Hornblower Niagara Cruises

Probably my favourite experience in Niagara Falls is the Hornblower Niagara Cruises.

You get to ride a boat straight up to both Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls and (literally) soak up their incredibleness!

When I last did the cruise on a day trip to Niagara Falls , I had no idea what to expect and my makeup got completely ruined!

This time, I went downstairs to the safe zone after quickly taking all my photos, and only my sneakers got wet.

For an additional $3, you can also ride the Hornblower Niagara Funicular down to the boarding area, and get a great view of the falls.

The Funicular is solar powered, which is really cool!

LOCATION: 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON

Lunch at Table Rock House Restaurant

The Table Rock House Restaurant is located right by the Horseshoe Falls, so definitely try to reserve a seat by the windows to get a great view.

If you come for dinner, you can enjoy the falls illuminated in all the pretty colours.

Table Rock is Feast On certified, which means they use mainly locally sourced ingredients on their menus – something I always admire from restaurants!

I got the Grilled Canadian 8 OZ AAA Striploin Steak and it was excellent.

I didn’t notice the wine pairing options before ordering my Riesling, but as someone who isn’t much of a wine connoisseur, it paired fantastically.

The restaurant is also in the same building as Journey Behind the Falls, so it’s a great spot to grab a meal before or after!

LOCATION: 6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON

Take a Journey Behind the Falls

While the Journey Behind the Falls is cool, it can totally be skipped if you’re on a budget or tight on time.

It’s basically some 130-year-old tunnels that allow you to see the falls from behind, and you have to take an elevator to get down to them.

There’s a main viewing area as well as two viewing portals, and you can pretty much get as wet as you want to.

I’ve seen some pretty cool silhouette photos taken here, but it was pretty crowded when we came!

Go to the Horseshoe Falls viewpoint

Even if you’ve seen Horseshoe Falls at every angle already, seeing it at the main viewpoint is just as cool.

It’s always free to visit, but prepare to get soaked if you walk too close to the gate!

This photo was actually taken at a restaurant near the viewpoint – we came across it when we went to use the bathroom 😛

Sip on wine at Peller Estates Winery

If you’re up for a little wine tasting, head nearby to Niagara-on-the-Lake and hit up some local wineries.

Not only is the Peller Estates property insanely beautiful – the wines are fantastic as well.

They also have a restaurant on-site, where you can enjoy their wines with your meal.

We did a tour of the winery, and got to sample 4 different wines both in the gardens and in the cellar.

My favourite part of the tour was probably the 10 Below Icewine Lounge, where we sipped on sweet, sweet ice wine on ice sculpted seats in a room filled with ice!

There are tons of amazing wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake, but we were only able to visit one because we were short on time.

Stratus Vineyards also makes a great ice wine, and Trius is a very pink, very Instagram-worthy winery!

LOCATION: 290 John St E, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Dinner at The Keg

The Keg is a classic Canadian steakhouse chain, and it’s probably one of the best places in Canada to get a good steak.

My family and I love coming here for special occasions.

I typically get the Filet Mignon, but I tried the Steak & Frites this time and it was  amazing .

I’m rarely disappointed by The Keg – they’ve always got delicious options.

If you’re looking to grab appetizers as well, try the Escargot, Scallops & Bacon, or the Baked Brie (the red pepper jelly is awesome).

LOCATION: 5950 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, ON

So that’s how to spend the perfect weekend in Niagara Falls during the fall!

Whether you’re looking to adventure around the falls or walk along some trails, there are tons of things to do during the autumn season in Niagara Falls.

Next on my bucket list is visiting Niagara Falls during the winter for their Winter of Lights festival, where the entire stretch along Horseshoe Falls is illuminated in festive lights. One day!

Have you been to Niagara Falls before? What would you add to a weekend Niagara Falls itinerary? Let me know on Twitter or Instagram !

If you’re looking for more weekend road trip ideas in Ontario , here are some other posts to give you some inspiration:

• Hamilton weekend guide
• Stratford weekend guide
• Port Hope weekend guide
• 1000 Islands weekend guide
• Bruce Peninsula weekend guide

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There's More to the Niagara Falls Region Than the Iconic Waterfall — Here's How to Plan the Perfect Trip

Most travelers venture to Niagara Falls for the picture-perfect view, but a host of new visitor experiences can help you see this world wonder in a whole other light.

As we drove past North America's largest waterfall, Lezlie Harper, the founder of Niagara Bound Tours told the story of a sign that once hung in downtown Niagara Falls, Ontario.

"It read 'Don't forget to see the falls,' " she said with a laugh, before gesturing to the majestic cascade in front of us. "As if you could miss it!" I laughed, too, but the truth is that, for many years, I had blithely driven past this wonder of the world with barely a glance.

When I was a kid growing up in a Toronto suburb, Niagara Falls was the place I begrudgingly visited when relatives flew in from out of town. I didn't know then that it is actually a trio—Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls sit side-by-side along the Canada-U.S. border—or that the charms of the region extend far beyond its main attraction.

But last autumn, I took a four-day trip with a girlfriend, Viji, and was reintroduced to the landmark and the city—along with its quaint little sister about 25 minutes north, Niagara-on-the-Lake. And on this visit, I found a new appreciation for the place I thought I knew.

Viji and I started at—where else?—the falls. Over lunch at Table Rock House Restaurant (entrées $24–$38), which is perched at the edge of Horseshoe Falls, we oohed and aahed at the crashing curtain of water right in front of us. Next, we took a short stroll to the Niagara Parks Power Station , which used the falls to provide electricity to much of the region for a century, beginning in 1905. It reopened in 2021 as an interactive museum that highlights the lives of the people who worked at the plant.

As we stood in the shadows of the turbines we'd learned about earlier, projections brought the workers and machinery to life.

We also took a hard-hat sneak peek at an upcoming attraction, which has since then opened. As of July 2021, a glass elevator takes people 180 feet underground into the old Tailrace Tunnel. The descent mimics the route the water once took through the power plant. After disembarking at the bottom, guests are able to stand on an outdoor platform for an entirely new vantage point of the falls.

That evening, we had dinner at AG Inspired Cuisine (prix fixe $89), a restaurant set in a former creamery in downtown Niagara Falls. The menu—which included a winter-squash bisque, juniper-roasted deer loin with a vegetable cassoulet, and a cranberry poached pear—celebrates Niagara terroir, and much of the produce comes from the restaurant's own farm 10 minutes away.

Later in the night we returned to the power station to experience Currents: Niagara's Power Transformed, an immersive indoor light and sound show. As we stood in the shadows of the turbines we'd learned about earlier, projections brought the workers and machinery to life and helped convey the importance of the plant to the region and the province. Afterward, we retired to the historic Old Stone Inn Boutique Hotel (doubles from $159), located steps from the water.

On our second morning we met Harper, our guide for a tour that followed the journey of the enslaved Africans (including Harper's own ancestors) who made their way to Canada. Most history books stop with their arrival via the Underground Railroad , but Harper shared what happened in the decades that followed. She told us about Josiah Henson—a once-enslaved man who found his way to freedom along with his wife and four children, inspired Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel Uncle Tom's Cabin, and became a founder of one of the most successful Black communities in southern Ontario. Harper also talked about the predecessor of the NAACP, a civil rights organization called the Niagara Movement, which had its initial meeting in 1905 in Fort Erie, a town on the Niagara River. As I looked out at the powerful waters, I found it hard not to become emotional at the thought of the men, women, and children who risked their lives to cross over to freedom.

More Trip Ideas : The 12 Best Small Towns in Canada

Viji and I continued our drive along the river to meet Tim Johnson at the Landscape of Nations . He is the director of the Landscape of Nations 360° Indigenous Education Initiative, a nonprofit that aims to educate Canadians about the contributions of Indigenous peoples. Johnson walked us across the site of the War of 1812's pivotal Battle of Queenston Heights. We paused just outside a collection of rails meant to symbolize a longhouse, an Indigenous style of dwelling, before following a stone trail through a memorial built to acknowledge the Six Nations' aid in the war.

Visitors can enter without a guide, but being with Johnson allowed Viji and me to ask questions and reframe the history we'd been taught as kids. I made a mental note to book a full Indigenous Niagara Living Museum tour in the future.

Afterward, we wound north to Niagara-on-the-Lake and checked in to 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa (doubles from $209) . Our apartment-like two-bedroom suite sat above a row of shops, offering views of the old-fashioned main street below. Recent renovations added a lounge for both guests and locals, plus a hydrotherapy-focused spa.

As I looked out at the powerful waters, I found it hard not to become emotional at the thought of the men, women, and children who risked their lives to cross over to freedom.

After a long day, we were thankful to be just steps from Treadwell Cuisine (prix fixe $95), an upscale restaurant in Niagara-on-the-Lake's Old Town. I ordered steak frites with a Cabernet Franc from the local Stratus Vineyards, while Viji went for a Sauvignon Blanc from nearby Five Rows Craft Wine to pair with her pan-seared scallops. From our window booth, we watched a parade of shoppers wander the street outside and remarked on how rarely we take the opportunity to sit and absorb the scenes around us. It was a simple pleasure to do just that.

This is wine country—there are more than 50 vineyards in the Niagara region along Lake Ontario—and Niagara-on-the-Lake is particularly renowned for its ice wines. We began our tasting tour just outside of town with lunch at the intimate Two Sisters Vineyards (entrées $17–$40) . As it turns out, sipping Cabernet Francs and Rieslings while nibbling a delicate beef carpaccio and crisp pizza is a good way to spend an afternoon.

What seemed like just a couple of hours later, we were back at the table, this time indulging in a dinner of roasted Ontario duck breast at Trius Winery & Restaurant (prix fixe from $66) . Winemaker Craig McDonald paired his award-winning vintages with chef Frank Dodd's creations, which included butternut-squash soup and a spiced-pumpkin blondie dessert.

After dinner, we experienced one of Niagara-on-the-Lake's most beloved attractions: the Shaw Festival , which began in the early 1960s as an annual event that celebrated the works of George Bernard Shaw, but now includes a variety of productions in three theaters. We saw Desire Under the Elms, Eugene O'Neill's complicated, tragic love story, and made plans to return to see Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest in the spring.

On our final day, Harper's words not to forget the falls were on my mind, so we headed back to where our journey began. We were ready for some downtime, so we booked sessions in the Hydrotherapy Infinity tub at Christienne Fallsview Spa .

As I sank into the steaming waters and stared at the falls and the gardens that surround them, I thought of the little girl who'd once underappreciated this gem. No longer. This, I thought as the bubbles worked their magic, was the postcard memory I came for.

Niagara Falls' Iconic Maid of the Mist Experience Just Got Better

A version of this story first appeared in the February 2022 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline Surprise and Delight.

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The Ultimate 48-Hour Itinerary for Niagara Falls, NY

There’s more to Niagara Falls than the Falls itself.

I have spent a lot of time writing about all these other states and countries. However, can you believe that I have lived in New York State my entire life and have not written a SINGLE blog post about it!?!   That is about to change...NOW! Now that I am consciously exploring my hometown and state due to this pandemic, I want to make sure that I am also sharing this New York State (and NYC) knowledge to others because, for someone else, it is not your backyard - it is a travel destination!

I am starting my series of New York State posts with Niagara Falls! What comes to mind when you think of Niagara Falls? Probably this…

However, there is SOOO much more to visit when making the trip. I am specifically focusing on the New York side, as there is also the Canada side to Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls is NOT just a waterfall, but an entire city that I personally think is very underrated. Don’t let anyone convince you that the New York side of the Falls doesn’t have plenty to offer!  If you are looking for a quick weekend getaway from NYC or other parts of the state (or even the tristate area), consider Niagara Falls! There are several activities to check out within a small radius that I will feature in this blog post. 

Please note: Be sure to research hours of operation ahead of time and if advanced reservations are needed.

In this blog post, I will answer some of the most common questions:

Can you do a day trip to Niagara Falls from New York?

Do you need a passport to go to Niagara Falls, New York?

How far is Niagara Falls from New York?

How can I spend a weekend in Niagara Falls, NY?

What are the many activities that you can do in the Niagara Falls area? 

Day 1: Drive to Niagara Falls + The Touristy Side 

Our journey to Niagara Falls began with a 7-8 hour bus ride from Manhattan to Niagara Falls, which is 400 miles traveled. Since my bae and I both do not drive, we took a bus tour that included an overnight hotel stay. This provided us with a great overview as I had never been to the New York side. Next time, I would probably try to use public transportation to get there so we have that flexibility!

TIP:   I highly recommend driving if you can so that you have more flexibility in deciding where you go and how long you spend at each place. We found ourselves rushed at times!

We arrived at around 4:30 PM as we made several rest stops. Since it is summertime, there were a few activities that we were able to squeeze in that evening 

A. Ride Maid of the Mist Boat:

This is probably the most popular activity to see in Niagara Falls! This 20-minute ride on a double-decker boat provides a unique perspective of the Falls. Did you know that Niagara Falls is actually made up of 3 waterfalls, the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls? The 3 waterfalls combine to produce the highest flow rate of any waterfall on Earth, which you will get to experience on this boat ride. The boat gets right up to the base of the Horseshoe Falls!

FYI: There is literally NO DIFFERENCE between the US and Canadian versions of the Maid of the Mis t. They leave from exactly the same spot and identical circle routes. Ultimately, you will get the same views!

TIP: For the clearest views and pictures, would try to rush towards the front of the boat. Yes, the boat makes a full circle, but if you are not in the front,  you will have many people blocking your shot. In terms of getting wet, you will get wet from anywhere as the closer you get to the Horseshoe Falls, the more the mist begins to feel like rain. However, you will get more soaked either from the top of the boat or from the front of the boat at the lower level. In terms of views, your position on the boat makes little difference since the boat makes a full circle. However, if you want to get wetter, stand either up top or towards the front of the boat at the bottom. 

2. Walk around Niagara Falls State Park

I legit had no idea that there was a whole Niagara Falls State Park here since I had only been to the Canada side (which does not have the State Park). This is actually the oldest state park in the United States, opened since 1885! Did you know that it was designed by the same person who designed Central Park, Frederick Law Olmstead? Spanning about 400 acres, there is lots to explore! It is a great spot to look at -- or takes pictures of -- Niagara Fall, from all sorts of angles! Leave time to truly take advantage of this free gem. 

TIP: From the New York side, there is a bridge known as Rainbows Bridge that you can walk across to get to the Canada side. I hear that it provides a great view of Niagara Falls and is quicker than driving across. Know that you will need a passport since you are crossing into a different country!

3. Visit Cave of the Winds

If you want to get REALLY  CLOSE and personal, check out Cave of the Winds . Interestingly,  "Cave of the Winds"  gets its name because in the 1800's there was a rock overhang --or a cave-like structure-- that allowed people to stand under the Falls. The Cave collapsed in the early 1900s, but the name stuck!

This is guaranteed to be a soaker, but it is well worth it!  It was my most unique experience by the Niagara Falls area and with any waterfalls, to be honest. Once you exit the elevator cave, you will see a wooden walkway that will bring you within feet of the Bridal Veil Falls. It will feel like you are in a mild storm of sorts!

Go in the daytime so that you can see more clearly. While it was definitely an experience at night, there were points where it was hard to see where we were going. 

You are given souvenir sandals and ponchos to wear in order to help you keep dry and prevent you from slipping. However, make sure to hold on tight to any railing! 

Wear clothes that you do not mind getting wet with and have some spare clothes to change into after if you are not immediately heading back to your hotel room. You should at least have a sweater to put over your clothes afterward as you will feel chilly from being soaking wet! Nonetheless, it is a fun experience! 

Day 2: The Hidden Gems of Niagara Falls area 

Considering that we had a lot to see before heading home, we were up pretty early! On our second day, we checked out the following:

1. Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours from Youngstown

We headed here as people had the opportunity to ride the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, which brings you right into Niagara’s Devil Hole Rapids. It is quite a thrilling ride from what I hear with 20-foot waves and currents going 20 miles per hour. However, we opted out of doing this boat tour and decided to just relax and enjoy the outdoors. The views were filled with crystal blue waters and parked sailboats.

If you love adventure, definitely try this ride out! It is another unique experience of Niagara Falls. 

TIP: If you want to get hit less by the waves, I hear you should sit towards the back of the boat!

2. Old Niagara Fort

The history nerd in me enjoyed this stop. Approximately 20 minutes from Niagara Falls, Old Fort Niagara is located at the base of the Niagara River. This fort is the oldest continuously occupied military site in North America, first established as a fortification that was originally built to protect the interests of New France in North America. However, it became best known for its use during the War of 1812 in which the British actually captured the fort and then eventually relinquished it under the terms of the Treaty of Ghent . It has remained in US custody ever since. In 1934, Old Fort Niagara opened as a historic site and public museum. However, military presence on the site continues with the United States Coast Guard still operating at "The Bottoms", making Fort Niagara one of the longest continuously run military bases in the United States, 1726 - present. You can explore the fort or just sit down and enjoy some amazing views!  On a clear day, you can see Toronto across the river. 

TIP: Check to see when you can catch an artillery demonstration! 

3. Whirlpool State Park

Whirlpool State Park is a great area to walk around or have a picnic! This 109-acre state park is located further north of the city of Niagara Falls, overlooking the Niagara Whirlpool on the Niagara River and the lower Niagara Gorge.  There are two levels -- the street level (which is where we entered) where you can catch many scenic views of the Whirlpool and rapids while also having a picnic or the river level where you can hike and fish. Connected to this state park is Devil’s Hotel State Park, which also offers great views of the whirlpools and a huge gorge. 

TIP: Bring a blanket and food to have a picnic as there are beautiful areas of grass and outdoor picnic tables on the street level. We even saw a food truck! 

BONUS: Watkins Glen State Park

About 3 hours away from Whirlpool State Park on our way back to NYC, we stopped for a hike through part of Watkins Glen State Park . This is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, and for good reasons!  If you want to indulge in all things nature -- take a hike, be captivated by any one of the 19 waterfalls there -- come to this park! 

In the summertime, the park gets pretty crowded. It sometimes becomes very difficult to move through narrow staircases and walkways with two-way traffic. However, because of the pandemic, I heard that it is now one-way traffic. Nonetheless, the best way to avoid the crowds is to go early in the morning (at 8:30 AM when it opens)  or late afternoon (4-5 PM) or avoid the summer months of July and August.

I have hiked this park twice -- once uphill and once downhill. Avoid entering through the main entrance unless you are ready to h ike uphill! However, that will be balanced with beautiful views of the waterfalls in front of you. If you want the shorter way and want to go downhill, then park in the main parking lot and then take the park bus to the upper parking area to hike the gorge trail back down to the main parking area. 

Day 3: Extra Day to Spare

If you have an extra day, I would recommend checking out the following. I did not get a chance this time. However, I do want to return to Niagara Falls to visit these places:

Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center : This is a center that recently opened in May 2018, with the mission of sharing authentic stories of Underground Railroad abolitionists and freedom seekers in Niagara Falls and helping visitors acknowledge that today’s injustices stem from slavery with the hope of encouraging others to take action. If you do visit, there is a permanent exhibition titled “One More River to Cross” that features stories of the Underground Railroad in Niagara Falls, including the actions of the area’s black residents. 

Niagara Falls Art & Cultural Museum : Located in the former Niagara Falls High School building, the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center (NACC) is the largest multi-arts center in upstate New York. The Mission of the NACC is to Protect the historic building as well as promote the arts and cultural experiences to the community and visitors to the region. This museum serves multiple purposes such as being the home to more than 75 artists and arts groups: over 60 artist studios, 3 public galleries, and multiple private galleries, three theaters, a radio station and a certified movie production facility. They also provide classes in Music, Painting, Dance, Videography, Animation, Sculpture and Writing. They regularly feature a broad variety of musical, theatrical and dance activities as well. 

Castellani Art Museum : This is an art museum central located on the Niagara University's main campus in the town of Lewiston, which is in proximity to the city of Niagara. The museum features exhibitions of nationally known and emerging contemporary artists and traditional folk arts. It started with the Castellanis couple collecting art in the 1960s. By 1989, their collection included over 3,000 works. A new art museum at the university was built in 1990. 

Aquarium of Niagara : Containing 30 exhibits, this aquarium is considered to be the other “wet wonder” of Niagara. The Aquarium features more than 1500 aquatic animals from more than 120 aquatic animal species ranging from California sea lions, rescued seals, Peruvian Humboldt penguins, sharks, seahorses, coral reef, sturgeon and more. There is also daily penguin and seal feedings, sea lion shows, and expert talks. 

Niagara Wine Trail : The Niagara Wine Trail features almost two dozen award-winning wineries and cideries to enjoy, where you have the opportunity to escape to the countryside. The wine trail stretches to both the Canada and the U.S sides! The U.S. side stretches across Niagara, Orleans and Monroe counties and is located just minutes from Niagara Falls and just a short trip from the Buffalo and Rochester areas. Niagara wineries have been recognized for their ice wines over the years. Because of its location, the region experiences a cool climate that helps it experience the second longest growing season for grapes in New York State. Here is a listing of 21 wineries located on the New York side of the area. If you are interested (and I hope to experience this someday), check out the Niagara USA Uncorked! Festival.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Yes! Although I do not recommend it because Niagara Falls is anywhere between 7-9 hours from NYC. However, I have seen some full day excursions from NYC where you leave either very late at night to arrive in the morning or leave very early in the morning to arrive in the late afternoon. 

If you are already in the United States, then you do not need one. However, if you are coming from the Canada side, you will need your passport to enter into the NY side. 

It is FAR! People underestimate how large New York State actually is. The trip is 400 miles or about 7-9 hours at minimum, depending on which form of transportation you take and if you make rest stops. 

This whole itinerary is about spending a weekend in Niagara Falls, NY so hopefully you learned something :-). 

What are the many activities you can do in the Niagara Falls area? 

Here is a list of activities that I included in this post to check out:

Maid of the Mist Boat Ride

Walk around Niagara Falls State Park

Visit Cave of the Winds

Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours from Youngstown

Old Niagara Fort

Whirlpool State Park & Devil’s Hole State Park

Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center

Niagara Falls Art & Cultural Museum

Castellani Art Museum

Aquarium of Niagara

Niagara Wine Trail

How do I get to and around Niagara Falls, NY?

Other alternatives to getting to Niagara Falls, New York if you do not drive or you do not want to do a tour include:

Amtrak: It is a 9.5 hour ride from New York Penn Station to Niagara Falls, New York Station (ride the Empire Service 281  or Maple Leaf 63). This will drop you the closest to Niagara Falls, NY (about a 7-10 min cab ride)

Plane: The closest city to Niagara Falls is Buffalo, NY and is located 23 miles away. Fly into Buffalo Airport and then take a 20-30 min taxi/Uber ride or grab a local bus (#40), which is a longer (hour ride) but cheaper option

Bus: The closest city to Niagara Falls is Buffalo, NY and is located 23 miles away. It is about a 9 hour bus ride (using Greyhound) to Buffalo. Then, take a 20-30 min taxi/Uber ride or grab a local bus (#40), which is about an hour ride. 

Once you are there, there is a shuttle that you can take to various attractions! With 

Discover Niagara Shuttle , you can park your car  for FREE and experience various attractions located along the Niagara River with the ease and convenience of a hop-on/hop-off shuttle.

The shuttle connects to 15 destination sites along the 14-mile route from the "Falls to the Fort." The best part is that the shuttle is FREE!   Look at this image for the list of the many stops!

What should I keep in mind when planning a trip to Niagara Falls, NY?

There is a lot to do! If you want to truly experience everything Niagara has to offer, I would recommend spending at least 3 days so you are not rushed. 

If you are visiting NYC, do not plan for Niagara Falls to be a quick day trip! Yes, you can visit it in a day, but it will be an exhausting one!

Since many activities are outdoors, make sure you check for the weather. It is best explored when it is not raining!

What is your favorite thing to do in Niagara Falls?

Which activity will you try during your visit, comment below, pin it .

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4 comentários

I have never seen a waterfall this big. I am from Bali. In Bali there is no waterfall this big. Your tour itinerary is very interesting. I really want to go there

Wow! I've been to the Canadian side, but I had no idea that there was SO much to do on the New York side! I'm especially pumped about the free shuttle! That makes seeing everything so much more convenient. Thanks for sharing!

This was a really interesting read since I've only seen the falls from the Canadian side!

OMG!!! I can't believe how good this post is! This is amazing, I (as probably everybody else!) heard of Niagara Falls and it is on my list to see but I literally had no actual clue about it! I love the detail and tips, and that there is this spot for a good view from Canadian side. Thank you! Will defo save this for the future reference!

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

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!

Ascen Aynat

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

Thinking of a October visit – is everything still open then ?? Do we need to get a rental car ?

Hi Angelia,

Yes, Niagara Falls is open year-round! If you go in early October, you should be able to enjoy everything, but if the weather is too icy or cold, they may close down some viewing platforms for safety reasons. I don’t think you really need a rental car here since there are shuttle and public transportation options.

Is it more cost effective to book tours or do the activities on your own? We like to move at our own pace and not sure a tour itinerary is worth it.

Good question. It depends on what you want to see. Visiting the attractions on your own is generally cheaper, but there are many tours and excursions that offer discounted rates and additional benefits like guides, snacks, etc. Hope that helps!

I am so happy after reading this information because I like to enjoy traveling too much. But this time I will decided to enjoy cheap tours las vegas with family.

That sounds great! Believe it or not, there are lots of family attractions in Las Vegas , so I’m sure you’ll have a great time!

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!

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A Niagara Falls Weekend Getaway: A Quick-Hitting Itinerary for the Adventurous

If you’re the type of person who likes to have a jam-packed itinerary filled with some great adventure-filled memories then this Niagara Falls, Ontario weekend guide is what you need. Longtime We Explore Canada contributor Hans Tammemagi breaks down how to get the most out of your Niagara Falls Weekend Getaway.

The Niagara Wonder pounds and bucks against the powerful current as the boat, its powerful engines roaring, edges perilously close to the thundering Niagara Falls. Soaked in mist, I feel very small next to the awesome power of the spraying, cascading water.

I’ve come to explore Niagara Falls, Ontario but I’m having to cast aside its image as one of the most-visited waterfalls in the world or a romantic honeymoon site or an historic centre of electrical innovation. With my heart pounding, I’m learning it is also a destination filled with adrenaline and nerve-wracking excitement.

Ziplining in Niagara Falls

Disembarking and shaking off the spray, I head to the top of the gorge, and climb a two-story platform.

I stand nervously at the edge while I am strapped into a harness hooked to a steel cable that leads ever downward to where the Niagara Wonder looks like a tiny bathtub toy. The attendant gives me a slight push and, suddenly, I’m racing down the seemingly frail wire of the Mist Rider Zipline (which you can read more about here ).

OK, when I reach the frightening speed of 70 km/h, or maybe it was a bit before, I scream. Luckily, the 660-metre distance to the base of the Falls flashes by quickly and soon I’ve landed and am struggling to regain my composure. 

I feel like one of the daredevils who have long sought out these cataracts. In the 1800s, tight-rope walking across the Falls was popular and included many tricks such as cooking an omelette on a stove then lowering it to passengers on a boat below. With incredible fool-hardiness, fifteen individuals have intentionally plummeted over the cataracts sealed inside various forms of “barrel.”

Only ten survived. 

Checking Out Clifton Hill

Night is falling as I board the Niagara SkyWheel . I’m apprehensive for this is Canada’s largest Ferris wheel, which rotates to the dizzying height of 53 metres. My nervousness dissipates as I reach the top and am greeted by spectacular views of the American and Canadian Falls lit up with the mist highlighted by ever-changing coloured lights. 

Directly below, rather incongruously, is a herd of dinosaurs. As we rotate past the jaws of a ferocious Tyrannosaurs Rex, I realize it’s part of a miniature golf course. Perfectly normal, I realize, on Clifton Hill with its garish neon, penny arcades and houses of horror. 

Views of the White Water

Next morning, I head north along the Niagara Parkway to the White Water Walk , where an elevator carries me down to water’s edge and a boardwalk that leads onto viewing platforms. I edge up to the railing hesitatingly, for the ferocity of the Niagara River’s Class 6 white-water rapids is frightening with standing waves taller than me. 

I think of the Maid of the Mist passing through here in 1860 when it had been sold, with the condition it had to be delivered to Lake Ontario. The captain and the engineer directed the Maid through these rapids where the powerful waves tossed it like a leaf, tearing off the smokestack. However, the boat emerged, was repaired and worked for many more years. 

The tour also teaches me about the 470-million-year-old, fossil-rich dolomite layers that form the Niagara Gorge. The plant and animal life are fascinating, but I ascend and proceed along the Niagara Parkway. After all, I’m here to seek adventure.

Before boarding the Whirlpool Aero Ca r, built in 1916, I carefully inspect the six support cables along which the car travels. I’m trying to understand how in 1975 Henry Rechatin made an illegal crossing on one of the cables … on a motorcycle. With his wife dangling upside down below! Truly a monument to marital trust. 

The Aerocar carries me high over the embayment of the Niagara River that contains the swirling Whirlpool Rapids.  Even from a height of 61 m, the river is white with foam and the waves immense in size. Matthew Webb, the first man to conquer the English Channel, tried to swim through these colossal waves in 1883. His body was not recovered for four days. As I watch, a powerful jet boat full of tourists comes upstream, fighting against the current. Wisely it doesn’t enter the Whirlpool but stays at the periphery.

A Little More Niagara Falls Adventure

Continuing northward I stop across from the Whirlpool Golf Course where a forest of dark poles awaits. This is the Wildplay Whirlpool Adventure Course and attached to the poles are various platforms and suspended objects.

This isn’t nearly as high as the SkyWheel so easy-peasy, I think, climbing up. Attached to a safety line I start to inch along. OK, balancing on a wire while dodging logs and climbing nets is far more difficult than I expected. And it gets tougher, a lot tougher. I fumble through numerous obstacles, swinging and cursing.

Finally, I zip line to the ground, my aching muscles a testament to the strenuous workout. Perhaps, I should trade my gym membership for an adventure-course pass?

Driving onward along the Niagara Parkway, I pass the Butterfly Conservatory , the Botanical Gardens and then the Sir Adam Beck electricity stations, which harness some of the immense power of Niagara Falls. If you want to learn more about that, consider visiting the Niagara Parks Power Station .

If driving is your style, by the way, you can learn more about all the sights along the 56 kilometres of the Niagara Parkway between Lakes Ontario and Erie here .

Some History Before Heading Off

At Queenston Heights, I’m drawn to the Landscape of Nations Memorial. It is steeped in Indigenous symbolism and describes the significant contribution of the Haudenosaunee and other Natives in supporting the British and Canadian soldiers throughout the War of 1812. I pass under a symbolic longhouse and came to the Memory Circle, where eight limestone blocks radiate from the centre like a sunburst. 

Next is the soaring Brock’s Monument , where Sir General Isaac Brock, a hero of the Battle of Queenston Heights, is interred. Inside, I climb a narrow, claustrophobic, spiral staircase that seems to go on forever (235 steps) but finally, I’m at the top with grand vistas stretching in all directions. 

I see Niagara Falls surrounded by mist and the long gorge the river has carved back from the escarpment. What a daredevil’s playground!

Hans’ writing is eclectic including travel, environment, Indigenous culture and things quirky. He has penned 10 books including one national best seller. Hans writes for Canadian Geographic, Westworld, Ensemble, Zoomer, British Columbia magazine, Explore, Northwest Travel, Canada’s History, the Globe and Mail and the Vancouver Sun. A member of the Society of Environmental Journalists and former adjunct professor, he has a strong affinity for the environment around us. He lives in the Gulf Islands where he enjoys kayaking and photography.

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How To Spend A Long Weekend At Niagara Falls

• Post last modified: July 21, 2020
• Post author: Nicole

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Though some folks try to fit Niagara Falls into a day trip, we feel this is a huge mistake. Not only is it a beautiful area, but both the Canadian side and U.S. side of the falls have a lot to offer its visitors. Let’s jump straight into this sample three-day itinerary on what you can do with a long weekend trip at Niagara Falls.  

Table of Contents

Day 1 - Niagara Falls, Canadian Side

One of the biggest questions every visitor has is, which side of the falls to visit? The simple answer is both of them. Canada, by far, has the best views of Niagara Falls. Plus, there’s more to do. 

However, this doesn’t mean the U.S. side is chopped liver. The U.S. side definitely has it’s fair share of jaw dropping things to see. It just means, for the purposes of this guide’s itinerary, we assume you will base yourself on the Canadian side. However, this itinerary is easy to shuffle around to fit your preferred schedule. 

Niagara Falls Cruise

What trip to Niagara Falls is complete without actually seeing the waterfalls up close. As there are often crowds, we recommend doing this in the morning before it gets busy.

There are two cruise options, the Hornblower (Canadian side) and the Maid of the Mist (U.S.).  They are both roughly the same price, include ponchos, take the same route and are crowded in peak hours. It makes very little difference which one you take, but we strongly recommend doing a cruise to the falls.

Honestly, I wasn’t keen on doing it, but I’m glad I did. The power of these waterfalls is incredible and the best way to feel it is in a boat at the foot of Horseshoe Falls. It really is one of the highlights of the trip.

As our hotel was on the Canadian side , we choose the Hornblower cruise. This made it very convenient to go in the morning before the crowds. It also meant we didn’t need to carry our passports and a change of clothes on the boat. We just went back to our hotel and changed before heading out for the day.

Niagara Falls Walking Path

For beautiful views of the waterfalls, just follow the car-free walking path through the park alongside the river. It’s just under 1 mile from the Hornblower Funicular to the Horseshoe Falls viewpoint behind Journey Behind the Falls.

It’s a great way to dry off if you are coming off the boats, or just a lovely stroll.

On a sunny day, count how many rainbows you can find in the mist.

Niagara Falls MistRider Zipline

As you follow the park towards Horseshoe Falls, it’s hard not to notice folks whizzing by overhead on the zipline. The adventurous may want to take this faster route to the falls.  

Journey Behind The Falls

If you have a warm sunny day and are keen to get wet, Journey Behind the Falls may be for you.

We opted not to do this particular tourist attraction and instead did a similar activity on the U.S. side which we talk about a little further down.

Flora Showhouse and Dufferin Islands

Continue following the walking trail beyond Horseshoe Falls for Floral Showhouse. This magnificent garden and greenhouse always has something in bloom. 

If you are keen to keep walking, continue to follow the river to Dufferin Islands. This natural area and park is popular with locals and bird watchers. All up, it’s about 1.7 miles from our starting point at the Hornblower Funicular. 

Clifton Hill Area

As the evening starts to roll in, most visitors head for the Clifton Hill area. Here you will find all sorts of typical tourist attractions. Haunted houses, wax museums, fun centers, and tacky souvenir shops line the street. 

There’s no escaping being a tourist in Niagara, so have fun embracing it.  Pop into some of the novelty stores, like Hershey and Coca-Cola before heading into the Great Canadian Midway for a few rounds of skee-ball.  Or, head into the Casino Niagara for adult entertainment. 

Grabbing Dinner in Niagara Falls

Not far from the Clifton Hill area, on Victoria Street, we can recommend the Weinkeller for dinner. It’s a fine dining option, so a little pricier than other meals in the area. However, the food and atmosphere was very nice.  

Day 2 - Niagara Falls, U.S. side

Next on our long weekend itinerary of Niagara Falls, the U.S. side of the falls. Grab your passport and head over Rainbow Bridge. 

Crossing the Canada - U.S. Border

Crossing the border is relatively painless. Though cars can often find long toll lines in summer and during holidays.

As the views from Rainbow Bridge are stunning, we recommend crossing on foot if you are able. You cannot go on the bridge without going through immigration first. Crossing into the U.S. requires a $1 (USD or CAD) pedestrian toll. A change machine is onsite as the toll requires quarters only.

Niagara Falls State Park

Once you pass through the border, take a right and walk along Niagara Falls State Park. You’ll want to follow the path along the river. First, you’ll come to the Maid of the Mist boat tours at Prospect Point.

For $1.25 (USD) or free in winter, the Niagara Falls viewpoint provides the best view on the U.S. side.  It gets you above the trees and out by the river for a panoramic view of all three waterfalls.

Taking the elevator to the bottom brings you to the Maid of the Mist boarding area. Head off to the left and find a set of stairs. These take you to the base of the American Falls and the very wet and windy “Crows Nest” viewpoint.

On the top level of the state park walking path, keep following the river for the top of the American Falls viewpoint.

Cave of Winds

Keep following the river and cross over Goat Island Road Bridge. There are several viewpoints in this area, including Luna Island, a little outcrop on American Falls. 

You also have the option of doing the Cave of the Winds; a set of walkways that lead around the bottom of the waterfalls. This is another area you are guaranteed to get wet. If you really want to get drenched, head up to the “hurricane deck,” which does actually feel like a mild hurricane. 

Included with admission is a poncho and water sandals. You can keep the sandals to use on the boat rides to the falls, if you didn’t take the boat earlier.  

Horseshoe Falls, U.S. side

Continue following the walkway in the state park all the way to the end of Goat Island at Terrapin Point. Enjoy the views Horseshoe Falls, before making the walk back to the border crossing. 

Waterfalls at Night & Firework Shows

No matter which day you visit Niagara Falls, you’ll find them beautifully lit in the evening. On holidays and weekends throughout summer, firework shows add an extra dazzle to the evening lights.

It’s worth noting, the Hornblower does offer firework cruises. These are a bit pricier than the standard cruise. There’s no need to be on the boats to get a fantastic view, but it may be worthwhile.

Day 3 - North Niagara, Canadian Side

On the third day of your long weekend in Niagara Falls, let’s head north. If you are not able to drive your car across the border or don’t have a car, there are plenty of tours that run in this area. 

Niagara Whirlpools

Roughly a five minute drive north of Rainbow Bridge starts the Niagara River’s Whirlpool Rapids. You don’t have to be in a boat to enjoy the area. Just past the Whirlpool Bridge on the Canadian side is an elevator that takes visitors down to a lovely boardwalk along the rapids. Unfortunately, unlike a lot of the parks in the area, there is a charge for entry. 

A little further around the river is the Whirlpool Aero Cable Car which takes visitors over the gorge and the Whirlpool Rapids below. 

Further north are several other tourist favorites, like the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Conservatory, and famed Floral Clock. 

Niagara-on-the-Lake

As shocking as it sounds, Niagara-on-the-Lake is famous for wine. Apparently, the surrounding lakes provide a moderate micro-climate, making the area ideal for growing fruit, including grapes.

Dotted along the landscape are just under two dozen wineries. The specialty of the area are the Icewines. Made from frozen grapes, the wine is sweet and usually considered a dessert wine.

Most wineries accept walk-in guests, and offer tastings for free. Alternatively, there are plenty of tours which shuttle you around to a few vineyards in the area. Usually, these include a formal sit down tasting, with a bit of education about the wines and the region.

Some of the vineyards we tried and enjoyed include:

• Southbrook Organic Vineyards
• Pondview Estate Winery
• Pillitteri Winery
• Stratus Winery

If you are also into beer, we felt the Oast House Brewery also made a nice stop.

The HOB NOB Restaurant makes a lovely spot to splurge on lunch. 

Skylon Tower

Back to the waterfalls for the evening, take in your final views of the gorgeous Niagara Falls from above, at the Skylon Tower. Have dinner at the rotating restaurant or just head to the observation deck. They even offer a day/night combination ticket if you prefer to also see the views during the day. 

We hope this guide has made planning your long weekend trip to Niagara Falls a cinch. If so, please be sure to pin us on Pinterest and share with others, thanks so much. 

Planning a trip to Niagara Falls? Be sure to read our Top 10 Niagara Falls Questions Answered

We recommend and use these companies to arrange our travel plans; they make travel planning easy and affordable. If you have questions on our experiences, feel free to ask us !

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The Ultimate Niagara Falls Trip Planning Guide

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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.

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Heading to Niagara Falls? Don’t Miss This Charming Town Nearby.

Take a detour from the world famous falls for a weekend trip to its artsy sister..

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Chateau des Charmes Estate, one of the many wineries you can visit in Niagara-On-The-Lake.

Courtesy of Destination Ontario

It’s hard to imagine a location that could top Niagara Falls, home to the 188-foot cascades that have been captivating visitors for decades. And yet, only a 30-minute, tree-lined drive north is Niagara-on-the-Lake, a quaint town set on the shores of Lake Ontario.

Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a more mature experience to the gaming hot spots and neon nightlife of the ever-popular honeymoon capital. (Think double-digit anniversary celebrations and wine-focused girlfriend getaways rather than Niagara Falls’ rowdy bachelorette parties and early 20s shenanigans.) Snippets of conversation waft out from café patios as you walk through the town’s Heritage District, which offers a mix of antique sellers, independent shops, and bed-and-breakfasts. Evenings are all about enjoying local wine and food at farm-to-table restaurants. And the art and culture experiences, including theater, galleries, and concert venues, are both award-winning and intimate. It’s the kind of place you settle into. And for a weekend stay , you can do exactly that. Here’s how to spend a few days in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Theater lovers can catch a show at Shaw Festival Theatre in Niagara-On-The-Lake.

The 90-minute drive from Toronto isn’t particularly pretty—the smokestacks and boxy buildings are indicative of what was once the industrial heart of the province. The scenic rewards begin once you hit the Burlington Skyway bridge and first see the bright blue of Lake Ontario below. Set on the edge of the Niagara Escarpment , a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to just over 19,000 people, and it feels like it.

Upon arrival, head directly to your hotel, the recently renovated and expanded 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa (from $430 a night). While the modest facade fits seamlessly with the well-preserved 19th-century village, inside the boutique property stretches several blocks and sports a bright, modern design. Rooms make use of the natural light and some offer views of Queen Street, the town’s main drag.

Once you’re settled, grab lunch at 11th Post on Queen , a quick walk from the hotel. The latest venture from local Two Sisters Vineyards, its quaint, central location is perfect for patio dining if the weather cooperates—favorites include the Post Burger and the tuna rice bowl. Then, hop on one of the hotel’s bikes and set out to explore the 3.7-mile Commons Loop trail , or head further afield on the area’s 32 miles of bike lanes and paths that include sections along the tree-lined Niagara River Parkway. Or let a local introduce you to the place: Tour de Vine ’s bike tours visit the region’s renowned wineries and Niagara Bound Tours dives into the region’s connection to the Underground Railroad. Other guided or self-guided options connect the area to the War of 1812 and Indigenous Nation building.

Make a reservation at the Riverbend Inn for dinner, where you can enjoy a lighter menu on the Ansley Sparkling Terrace or a more traditional meal (think duck confit or braised lamb shank) inside at Oaklands. When you’re done, you’re only a 20-minute walk or a 3-minute drive over to the Maxwell Studio Theatre, where you can catch The Apple Cart from June through October this year. The production is part of the Shaw Festival (running February through December), brainchild of an area lawyer who loved the works of George Bernard Shaw. Since 1962, the festival has showcased his theatrical productions alongside other notable plays.

Tea service at Prince of Wales Hotel.

Courtesy of Vintage Hotels/Kelsey Goodwin

After a cold water dip at the new Spa at Q (its new hydrotherapy circuit includes the only Snow Room in Canada), succumb to the area’s reputation as a wine haven. More than 50 wineries dot the region, which has been home to some of the best wineries in Canada. While over 46 grape varieties are grown in the area, its best known for its cool climate varietals, including riesling, chardonnay, and cabernet franc.

Tour companies like Niagara Vintage Wine Tours or Winery Guys offer the chance to try a few wineries without worrying about having to drive yourself, with options for meals overlooking the vines. If you’re planning your own tour (Uber and cabs are available), consider visiting Two Sisters , where a wood oven produces perfectly crisp pizza to enjoy with your sips. Another option: Trius , which offers a two- or three-course menu that includes a prosciutto-wrapped Cornish hen and Ontario beef striploin.

Ready for a walk? Back in town, take an hour to wander the Victorian-era shops along Queen Street. The eclectic mix of purveyors means you can pick up everything from a leather ottoman in the shape of a rhino to locally made bath bombs . For a late-afternoon nibble, pop into Budapest Bakeshop or Il Gelato di Carlotta for a quick treat. Or settle in for a classic high tea, complete with scones and cucumber sandwiches, at the Prince of Wales Hotel .

Tonight, dine at Treadwell , where the seasonal four-course prix fixe menu can include dishes like seared scallops with pork belly, maple chile, and radish, or cocoa nib–crusted Muscovy duck. And an optional (but recommended) sommelier pairing features a mix of regional and international suggestions. Once you’re happily sated, you’re steps from your hotel.

Sleep in—you’re on vacation, after all. Then cross the street to the Niagara Juice Co. for the Giant Breakfast Croissant, stacked with bacon, egg, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and lemony hollandaise. (One will easily satisfy two people.) Pair it with a coffee or hand-squeezed orange juice and sit at a table out front while you watch the street wake up.

Before you head back to Toronto, be sure to pick up a few souvenirs of your stay. Foodie options are best (spreads from Greaves Jams, oil from OLiV Tasting Room , or nostalgic candies from the Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe are winners). But non-food options also abound from local artisans, designers, and crafters. Pop into Natasha Bradley for modern home decor picks, or choose a piece from the Inuit and Iroquois artists featured at the Upper Canada Native Art Gallery .

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Niagara Falls Day Trip Guide (Beyond the Tourist Traps!)

Picture this: breathtaking, roaring waterfalls surrounded by nature’s lush greenery…

…and right next to it, a dinosaur-themed mini-golf course, a wax museum, and a haunted house.

This somewhat jarring combination is the reality in Niagara Falls, Canada. Over the decades, this iconic natural wonder has been overshadowed by chain restaurants, kitschy shops, and cheesy attractions. Walking down Clifton Hill feels a bit like strolling a movie set combined with a dash of Orlando and a splash of Las Vegas. While Niagara Falls is undoubtedly a breathtaking natural marvel, it’s also a bustling hub of commercialization.

Planning a trip to Niagara Falls? I’m thrilled to share my guide for a day of exploration that spans both sides of the border, starting on the Canadian side and ending on the U.S. side. If you have a passport, I can’t recommend enough taking the time to cross the border—it’s well worth the generally short wait and small fee to experience the falls from both perspectives.

For visitors seeking an authentic travel experience, finding mom-and-pop spots in this sea of tourist traps can be surprisingly difficult—I know it was for me. Determined to plan a day at the falls that felt genuine, I set out to create an itinerary that didn’t feel like selling out.

This guide is the result of days spent sifting through travel resources that didn’t quite align with my style, and ultimately creating an itinerary that maximized the value of our visit. After all, with such a long journey to get here, why settle for the same experiences you could have back home?

With all of that out in the open, today you can discover my full day-trip guide to Niagara Falls, tips to make the most of your visit, and a few great options if you find yourself with more than a day in the area. Let’s go!

ABOUT NIAGARA FALLS

Niagara Falls is a trio of waterfalls on the Niagara River, which flows from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario: Horseshoe Falls (also known as Canadian Falls), American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. It is also the name given to the two cities bordering the river, one in the Canadian province of Ontario and the other in the state of New York.

The falls were formed approximately 12,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, when melting glaciers created the Great Lakes and the Niagara River. Indigenous peoples, including the Iroquois and the Neutrals, were among the first to inhabit the area—and though theories differ as to how the name Niagara came to be, most agree that it is derived from an Indigenous word or phrase.

Over the centuries, Niagara Falls has attracted countless visitors, from early settlers and explorers to modern-day tourists; today it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. This day trip guide is for you , you one in all those millions.

THINGS TO DO IN NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA

Soak in the View

Stroll along the Niagara River Recreational Trail, which runs parallel to the Niagara River, to take in the sweeping panorama (fun fact: this trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail , which runs coast-to-coast!). During peak season, you may have to work your way through the crowd, but luckily, there’s plenty of room to spread out and the views are stunning from almost every angle between the Rainbow Bridge and Horseshoe Falls.

Be sure to walk all the way to the crest of Horseshoe Falls; watching the clear water tumble over is absolutely mesmerizing. Just know that the closer you get to the falls, the likelier you are to get wet from the mist!

Note : To really soak in the view, you might consider buying a ticket to Journey Behind the Falls —to be honest, I did this experience once as a kid, and didn’t really feel the need to relive it as an adult.

Skip the chain restaurants

While I don’t usually recommend visiting one country to savor the cuisine of another, La Revolución Taqueria is an exception well worth the short detour from the chain restaurants that dominate the streets around the falls. The tacos here are as authentic and flavorful as those found two borders away, offering a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Here, bold flavors take center stage with a menu featuring tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, all crafted with meticulous care. The slow-braised lamb in the quesabirria is tender and rich, while the fresh, house-made salsas add a vibrant kick to every bite (and some are safe for my non-spicy friends!). Portions are generous, and the prices are just right. Just be prepared to resist the urge for a nap after such a hearty meal—you’ll want to keep your energy up to enjoy the rest of your day!

How about a beer, eh?

In our quest to escape the crowds and experience Niagara Falls’ local side, we discovered Counterpart Brewing , a craft brewery in the north end of the city. Since opening its doors in 2019, this brewery has quickly become a local favorite—evident by the lively crowd we found even during what we thought would be a quieter time.

Mindful of the drive to and from the brewery, Michael and I opted to share a flight, with me taking on the tough task of finishing off the tidy pours (someone has to do it!). Counterpart’s tap list leans heavily into the Hazy IPA category, and sampling them all was a treat. Given how fast-paced our travels usually are, it was a delight to slow down and relax, just like the rest of the crowd. Next time, I’ll be sure to save room—the elevated pub grub menu looked absolutely phenomenal.

Okay , visit one or two Canadian chains

If you go to Canada and don’t visit a Tim Horton’s , did you really even visit Canada? Canada’s largest restaurant chain got its start in nearby Hamilton, Ontario, and today more than 80% of Canadians stop in to a Tims at least once a month . With several locations in the area, a coffee and Timbits are never far away.

If you’re visiting in summer and looking for a way to cool down, Sweet Jesus is ready and waiting for you. This Toronto-based ice cream chain has a walkup stand right on Clifton Hill, which makes it a perfect place to stop for a swirl before walking down the block to gawk at the attractions.

THINGS TO DO IN NIAGARA FALLS, USA

Experience a classic Niagara Falls attraction

Even if you’ve never visited Niagara Falls (or at least, haven’t visited yet!), chances are you’ve heard of the Maid of the Mist . The original Maid of the Mist boat took its first journey in 1846, and today two electric vessels take turns departing out into the Niagara River in a loop.

Purchase your tickets online ahead of time or at the ticket booth on-site, and ride the elevator down to the landing below. Here you’ll receive a poncho and wait for the next available boat. Tours last approximately twenty minutes and the boat capacity is 600, which means you likely won’t have long to wait. For the best views, head to the front and sides of the boat; just know that “mist” is a bit of a euphemism and you’ll likely end up drenched on any surfaces not covered by the poncho.

The boat starts its tour of the falls with a closeup of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls on the port side (that’s the left side!) before proceeding to station itself momentarily in front of Horseshoe Falls. As it does, there’s a good chance you may need to remind yourself to keep your mouth closed, because the magnitude of the cascading water is jaw-dropping. On the way back, you’ll swing by the other two falls for one more quick glance (this time from the starboard, or right side).

Keep your poncho on after docking for a climb of the Crow’s Nest and you’ll be rewarded with a closeup of American Falls. Just be careful, because it’s a bit of a slick climb!

See it all from above

The Niagara Falls USA Prospect Point Observation Tower (whew, that’s a long name) also serves as the elevator to access the Maid of the Mist tours, and access to the platform is included with your ticket. Here is where you’ll find, in this blogger’s humble opinion, the best view of the falls from the American side. Decided to skip the tour? Admission is just $1.25.

Hit the trails

Niagara Falls State Park is almost as much of a wonder at the falls themselves. As the oldest state park in the United States, its creation is rooted in the vision of Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect behind New York City’s Central Park. While working in nearby Buffalo, Olmsted was horrified by the industrial encroachment on what he believed should be a preserved natural wonder. After more than a decade of advocacy, the Niagara Appropriations Bill was signed into law, leading to the establishment of the Niagara Reservation.

Today, Niagara Falls State Park remains free to visit, offering miles of scenic trails for exploration. Make your way to Goat Island and Luna Island for stunning views of the rapids and yet another close-up encounter with the falls.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR VISITING NIAGARA FALLS

The best time to visit Niagara Falls

From a weather perspective, summer is the ideal time to visit Niagara Falls. The warm temperatures are made comfortable by a constant breeze, making it a pleasant season for exploring. Spring and fall also offer generally mild conditions, though evenings can be cooler. Winter, on the other hand, brings snow, ice, and early sunsets—often before 5 p.m.—but the falls take on a striking beauty when coated in a snowy icing.

The downside to visiting in summer is the higher costs and larger crowds, as it’s the peak travel season. For those looking to save, a winter visit can be more budget-friendly. However, the best value—balancing cost with experience—can usually be found in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

Getting to Niagara Falls

Arriving to Niagara Falls is pretty easy, whether you’re arriving via plane, train, or automobile. Unless you’re flying in from Florida, where you can hop on an Allegiant flight to the closest airport to the falls , you’ll likely land at Buffalo Niagara International Airport (in New York) or at Toronto Pearson International Airport (in Ontario).

If you’re staying in either of those cities, you may consider taking the train in ( Amtrak in New York or GO Train in Ontario) if it aligns with your schedule. For us, and likely most of you, renting a car and driving in made the most sense. Driving in Niagara Falls (on either side of the border) is a little bit of a headache, with confused visitors stopping or slowing unexpectedly and traffic piling up in hotspots, but the overall freedom of movement is an asset, not a burden.

Visiting Niagara Falls, USA, vs. Niagara Falls, Canada

It bears repeating: Niagara Falls is best experienced on both sides of the border. The best panorama is found on the Canadian side, where you can truly gain a sense of the scale of the falls while also getting up close with Horseshoe Falls. The downside? The crowded, carnival-like atmosphere can be suffocating at times (for me, at least, Niagara Falls, Canada, looks straight out of Vegas—and not like I’ve left my country).

The area surrounding the falls in Niagara Falls, USA, is far less developed than the Canadian side, offering much more opportunities to explore on foot. Following the right paths will place you at the top of the American Falls, where the water roars by just feet away. But just like how you can’t see the Eiffel Tower from the Eiffel Tower when you’re visiting Paris, you can’t see the falls as well when you’re right on top. The solution? Head across the border.

Crossing the Canada–United States border

For whatever reason, crossing the border by land feels so much more daunting to me than going through border patrol after exiting a plane, but it really isn’t a painful process provided you have all your documents handy and in order.

I should make the disclaimer that it is your responsibility to verify your passport and visa (if necessary) status beforehand (find current information on the official websites of Canada and the United States ); as the vast majority of my readers are based in the U.S., I’m choosing to primarily cover the border crossing from their standpoint.

The primary border crossing for visitors to Niagara Falls is the Rainbow Bridge , which can be traversed by car or on foot. A toll is due upon entry to the Canadian side for cars, and in both directions for pedestrians. If you are a citizen of the United States and over the age of 16, you will need a valid Passport, a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver’s License (issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, or Washington) to cross into Canada. Minors 15 and under must have either a passport, birth certificate, citizenship card, permanent resident card, or Certificate of Aboriginal Status.

Once you pull up to an available booth, you’ll be asked for your identification and reason for visiting. You may also be asked to roll down your rear windows and if you are transporting any alcohol, tobacco or firearms. Don’t be nervous about crossing the longest border in the world, just be honest and confident.

And in case you’ve heard some horror stories of long lines, I can honestly say that our border crossings in peak summer were smooth and relatively quick. But before you decide to head across, you can always check the traffic conditions on the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission website and decide if you want to cross via another nearby bridge (the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge to the north or the Peace Bridge to the south).

Note : Global Entry holders may note that while the Whirlpool Bridge is a NEXUS only bridge, our Global Entry cards are not valid for crossing back into the U.S.

Maid of the Mist or the Hornblower—which boat tour should I take?

The Maid of the Mist and Hornblower boat tours are nearly identical in every aspect: they both last approximately twenty minutes, provide astounding views of all three waterfalls, provide ponchos to help you stay dry, and total about the same price.

So what’s the difference? The departure point. The Maid of the Mist departs from the U.S. side, and the Hornblower departs from the Canadian side. If you’re only visiting one side of the falls, your decision is made for you. But if you’re torn between the two, there are a few other things that may sway you one way or another.

The first is that each tour is purchased in local currency; if you have a credit card that charges foreign transaction fees, you may be better off taking the tour that departs from your home country if applicable (and if you don’t have a credit card that waives transaction fees, I highly recommend this one ).

The next thing to consider is when you’re visiting. Both tours operate seasonally and will announce their opening and closing dates in accordance to the weather, so it’s possible you’ll only have one to choose from. Additionally, the Hornblower tickets are timed tickets and the Maid of the Mist tours are not. If you’d like a little flexibility in your day, I’d go with the latter (just know there could be a wait).

Finally, the cherry on top that pushed us toward the Maid of the Mist is the included access to the Observation Tower , which offers the only simultaneous view of all three falls (otherwise admission is $1.25, which isn’t much but I’ll take those savings!).

Getting around + parking

Just so there are no surprises: you should be prepared to pay to park when visiting Niagara Falls.

Rates fluctuate based on both the lot you choose and the time of year (with prices peaking during the summer months), but you should budget $15 for the U.S. side and $25 for the Canadian side (local currency) for parking. Unless you’re just planning to hop out of the car, snap a photo, and leave, I would skip the meters and find a centrally-located lot.

Driving around the Canadian side, we found plenty of private lots charging parking fees that changed every time we passed (you’ll notice few places post their rates online). The best price we found for the day was at the Skylon Tower , which had the added bonus of making it very easy to find our car when it was time to leave. There are certain attractions that will allow you to park for free with paid admission, which may be helpful if you decide to add one to your itinerary.

On the U.S. side, I recommend parking in the state park for convenience and savings over parking in the city-owned lots. Prices increase as the weather warms, but as of 2024, the rate tops out at $15. To make getting around easier, you can take advantage of the free Discover Niagara Shuttle .

Ways to save

Your day in Niagara Falls can be as expensive (tacking all the attractions, dining at high-price restaurants, gambling in the casinos…) or as cheap (walking the trails and soaking in the views) as you like.

For my friends looking to leave the falls with a little money left in their pockets, there are a few best practices for your day in Niagara Falls: Visit in the off-peak season if you’re able, only book the attractions or excursions you’re truly interested in, choose to dine away from the tourist spots, and skip the overpriced souvenirs. And if you’re visiting both sides of the falls in a day, just park your vehicle on one side and traverse the border on foot.

WITH MORE TIME IN AND AROUND NIAGARA FALLS

This overall trip prioritized exploring nearby Buffalo, but there’s still loads to explore in the area. Saved on my list for my next visit are:

• Venture up to Niagara-on-the-Lake • Savor an afternoon at the Niagara region’s wineries in Canada and the U.S. • Exploring more of Three Sisters Island • Tour the first major power plant on the Canadian side of the Niagara River at the Niagara Parks Power Station • Get in a hike while overlooking the rapids at Devil’s Hole State Park • Spend more time among nature’s beauty at the Butterfly Conservancy • Ascend the Skylon Tower for an iconic view of the falls

Food is always on my mind, so I’m also bookmarking these restaurants:

• The Polish Nook , for mouthwatering pierogi • Fork You , for Peruvian flavors this side of the equator • La Familia , a Filipino grill with bold dishes • Weinkeller , for a classic hearty meal • The Mami House , for heaping bowls of comfort • Power City Eatery , for when you just want a sandwich

As for where to stay, I’m eyeing chic boutique hotels and charming bed and breakfasts both in Niagara Falls and a short drive away. In no particular order:

• The Woodbourne Inn , an elegant 8-bedroom manor house • Harbour House , an escape right by the Niagara River • The Butler House , where you can walk to the falls • The Scotsman Hotel , for a luxurious splurge • Cannery Lofts , for an apartment-style stay • The Marshall House Bed & Breakfast , a charming B&B close to it all

As always, if you beat me to any of these places, leave a comment and share how you liked it!

FINAL THOUGHTS ON VISITING NIAGARA FALLS

There’s always chatter online about whether it’s “worth it” to visit a place if you don’t have much time to spend and some might argue that a single day isn’t enough to fully experience a place. But I’d counter that by saying: 1) this mindset can be unfair to budget travelers and Americans who often have limited vacation time, and 2) a day is more than enough to explore the highlights of Niagara Falls.

That said, there’s still so much left to see and do in this incredible region, and I’m eager to return and continue exploring it through a more authentic lens—one that respects the natural beauty, the rich culture, and the people who call it home.

Questions for you

Have you visited Niagara Falls before? What was the most memorable part of your experience?

How do you feel about the commodification of the areas surrounding the falls?

Where to next? You may also enjoy these related posts:

• 10 Essential Restaurants in Buffalo, New York
• The Complete Weekend Travel Guide to Rochester, New York
• From Scrabble to Suffrage: Four Rochester Museums You Just Can’t Miss
• Traveling Light: Packing List for a Weekend in Rochester, New York
• 36 Hours in Albany, New York
• Traveling Light: Albany, New York Packing List
• 36 Hours in NYC: Lower Manhattan
• A Three-Day Fall Weekend in NYC
• Culturally Relevant: The Essential Weekend Travel Guide to Cleveland, Ohio
• Meeting Motor City: An Introductory Weekend Travel Guide for Detroit, Michigan
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• Frontier Airlines Review
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• Checking In: Hotel Reviews
• Shop My Closet
• Exclusive Promo Codes + Discounts

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Niagara Falls

Rainbow bridge.

Walk, cycle, or drive across the border and enjoy an unimpeded view of Niagara Falls.

Aquarium of Niagara

See aquatic animals from the Great Lakes to the Amazon River, and be entertained by sea lion shows and penguin feedings.

American Falls

Explore the great outdoors at American Falls and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls during your trip to Niagara Falls. Wander the area's riverfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

What to do in Niagara Falls

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Make Your Niagara Falls Day Trip An Epic One with Niagara Parks

It’s no secret that Niagara Falls is one of the most sought out destinations in Ontario as well as Canada. Growing up in Niagara, I’ve certainly taken the falls for granted. Over the past few years though, I’ve grown to have a deeper appreciation not just for the natural beauty but for a number of the attractions surrounding it – and much of this is thanks to Niagara Parks!

While some stay for a few days to truly explore the area, there are many who are trying to cover a lot of ground and have a short amount of time in the falls. If you’re looking to plan a Niagara Falls day trip, this itinerary will help maximize your experience so you can make the most of your limited time in the area!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links where I may receive a kickback at no extra cost to you. It helps keep IBB alive so thank you !

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Your Epic Niagara Falls Day Trip Itinerary

This will be a busy day of adventure but trust me when I say it’s worth the hustle and bustle. It will have you running from morning until night but you’ll see the falls from all angles during this incredible day trip in Niagara Falls!

Lindz Along the White Water Walk

Experience the White Water Walk

Start your day by descending 70 metres (~230 feet) to check out one of the wildest (and mosstretches of whitewater rapids in the entire world! As the largest series of rapids in North America, you’ll witness the Class VI Whirlpool Rapids with standing waves ranging from 3-5 metres in height. 

Niagara Parks’ White Water Walk leads you along a beautiful boardwalk adjacent to the Whirlpool Rapids. You’ll be fascinated by the sheer force of the Niagara River just as many have been since the attraction was originally established in 1876. While it looks a lot different now than it did back then, it’s still a popular attraction in Niagara Falls.

As you traverse the boardwalk, enjoy the views along the way as well as from the numerous lookout platforms. Interpretive signage shares about the history of the White Water Walk, fun facts about the Niagara River like how the water gets its iconic turquoise colour, the history of the Niagara Gorge and more.

INSIDER TIP:  To avoid waiting in line for entry into the White Water Walk, it’s best to arrive before 10:30 am.

Feel the Buzz at the Niagara Parks Power Station

One of the newest attractions in Niagara Falls, the Power Station has quickly become a favourite for many, myself included. I originally visited during Doors Open in 2019 and it has been transformed into an incredible museum dedicated to the history of power generation in Niagara! Meander through the massive hall past the blue generators while learning about we utilized technology to create electricity by harnessing the power of the Niagara River. “Follow the flow” as the interactive exhibits help you to further understand the importance of the power station back in the 1900s.

FUN FACT: Brand new for 2024, Niagara Parks has created an audio tour for guests to enjoy as you explore the Power Station. It’s free and is included in your admission!

You also might be surprised to learn that Nikola Tesla is a deep connection with Niagara . His belief in the power of alternating currents and how they could change the world led to the development of AC generators like the ones you see within the power station. To honour his contributions (including the 9 patents within the power station alone!), you can experience the power of electricity by playing a mini Tesla Coil and change the movement of electricity. You can also water a larger-than-life Tesla Coil shoot electricity throughout the sky above you every 45 minutes past the hour!

Exploring The Tunnel is also included with your admission to the Power Station. Niagara Parks has once again upgraded this experience by illuminating the pathway and adding video projections to share more of the Power Station’s history.

Have Lunch at the Table Rock Bistro

Say hello to the closest open-air rooftop patio to the brink of the iconic Horseshoe Falls! This new culinary addition to the Niagara Falls restaurant scene is not to be missed.

Sink your teeth into this FeastON certified menu where you can enjoy some incredible eats while supporting farmers, producers, brewers and distillers from Ontario! While the Table Rock Bistro & Wine Bar has an interior section, you’ll want to grab a seat on the patio. Enjoy the views of the Niagara Parkway below as you indulge in handheld eats like the Bistro Burger or their  Lobster Roll . I highly recommend starting off your meal with the  charcuterie board if you’re looking to enjoy a true taste of the province as it features three meats and three cheeses all sourced from the province. 

Seating is on a first come, first served basis so you may not get a seat right by the edge but it’s worth taking a moment to enjoy the view before diving into your delicious meals!

Enjoy the Blossoms of the Floral Showhouse

For over 60 years, the Floral Showhouse has been a beautiful bloom in the line-up of Niagara Parks’ attractions. It’s comprised of three sections – the centre house which was built in November 1946 and then the north and south houses that were added five years later. The glass-ceiling reception and gift shop was added in June 1980, allowing their horticulturalists to grow larger plants and trees like the large palms that are a staple of the Floral Showhouse.

There are seven shows each year, changing seasonally and with popular holidays such as Christmas. You’re guaranteed to see something new if you visit every few months! This year, Niagara Parks has collaborated with the Mosaïcultures Internationales de Montréal and the Atlanta Botanical Garden to craft gorgeous sculpted shrubs and foliage to bring the plants to life! Each creation tells a unique story related to Niagara Parks.

Views from the Upper Platform of Journey Behind the Falls

Journey Behind the Falls

Next, let’s feel the rumble of the Horseshoe Falls as we head into the belly of the beast with Journey Behind the Falls! Niagara Falls carries 20% of the world’s freshwater as it flows in from our gorgeous Great Lakes.

Recently renovated, visitors have numerous storyboards adorning the walls where you’ll learn about the history of these lands we walk on beginning with acknowledging the Attiwonderonk (Neutral), Haudenosaunee, Mississauga and additional Indigenous groups who have called this area home since time immemorial and traversing the many years since colonization into what Niagara Falls is today.

RELATED:  Journey Behind the Falls is one of the top indoor attractions in Niagara Falls. Check out more great things to do indoors in Niagara Falls with my guide !

Once you’re done learning about the area, hop in the elevator as you descend 38 metres (approximately 125 feet) below the surface to access 198 metres (about 650 feet) of tunnels. Visitors can access two portals located behind the Horseshoe Falls itself where you’ll witness the Niagara River travelling 65 kilometres per hour over the crest. There’s no doubt that you’ll be amazed by the power you feel from the falls! The biggest draw though is the observation deck where you’ll enjoy great views of the Horseshoe Falls as well as the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. 

Dinner at the Table Rock House Restaurant

There’s no better spot to enjoy tastes of the region than the Table Rock House Restaurant. Located in the Table Rock Centre, Chef Matt Krupa serves up old French-based cuisine intertwined with international flavours. His dishes are crafted using several ingredients sourced right from Niagara. The flavours may be worldly but you’re supporting Ontario farmers, producers, brewers and distillers as the Table Rock House and the Table Rock Bistro are both FeastON certified ! 

The menu changes seasonally but there is no shortage of incredible eats to be enjoyed. However, their Ontario Burrata has been on the menu for a while now (albeit in different variations) and it’s not to be missed. This season’s rendition includes a savoury pistachio butter atop Pingue mortadella with cherries and toasted pistachios, all topped with a cherry vinaigrette and wildflower honey drizzle. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and salty that has each flavour bringing out the other. 

I’m an absolute sucker for anything lobster so if you are too, you must order the lobster tagliatelle . DOP certified Pomodoro tomato sauce, is envelops fresh tagliatelle, alongside fresh basil, stracciatella cheese and massive chunks of lobster sourced from Prince Edward Island. You may notice a little kick and thanks to a hint of Bomba hot pepper paste to round out this incredible dish.

Currents Light Show at the Power Station

Experience The Tunnel at Night

If you visited the Power Station during the day then you may want to skip this, but I’d say it’s worth revisiting as you’ll enjoy the Power Station from a whole new angle!

As of 7:00 pm each night, the Power Station flips into its nighttime programming where you’ll be treated to the mesmerizing light show known as Currents. Follow the story of how the Niagara River’s power was harnessed to create electricity while learning about the importance of water. The incredible animations that illuminate the generator hall will captivate you in this 30 minute long presentation. 

SOMETHING TO NOTE:  If you’ve visited the Power Station earlier in the day, you will need to pay for entry again. The night time experience is only available from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm so if you’d rather enjoy the Power Station at night, I’d recommend using the earlier time to check out a different Niagara Parks attraction.

Once you’ve experienced Currents, take your second elevator ride of the day to The Tunnel. Descending even further than you did with Journey Behind the Falls as you arrive almost 55 metres (180 feet) below the surface. What used to be a conduit to channel water for power generation is now a unique route to take you to one of the best views of the Horseshoe Falls.

One of the reasons I recommend experiencing The Tunnel at night instead of during the day is because you can catch the nightly fireworks over the falls from this amazing vantage point! I highly recommend heading down by 9:00 pm to ensure a spot along the railing for the best experience. It’s the perfect way to end your day in Niagara Falls!

Lindz & Tara Experiencing The Tunnel at Night

More Things to Do in Niagara Falls

There is no shortage of things to see and do in order to jam pack your day in Niagara Falls. If you’ve experienced some of these great Niagara attractions before or are curious to know what other options are available, here are some more was you can fill your Niagara Falls itinerary.

Walk Along the Niagara Parkway – You may not know this but Niagara Parks is responsible for the 1,325 hectares (3,274 acres) of parkland adjacent to the Niagara River along with the 56 kilometres of the Niagara Parkway! Since you only have a day, you won’t be able to see it all but if you’ve walked from any of the parking lots near the Table Rock Centre to the White Water Walk, that’s still part of the Niagara Parkway. I personally enjoy the trek just south of the falls as you pass the Power Station towards the future site of Niagara Falls’ only waterfront hotel .

Check Out the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory – One of the largest butterfly conservatories in North America, you’ll be treated to 60+ species of butterfly and over 2,000 of them as they flutter throughout the glass dome. You can’t help but feel like a little kid again watching the brilliant colours of Monarchs, Blue Morphos and Banded Oranges go about their day. Some may even land on you! For more details, take a look at my guide to the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory .

Experience Niagara’s Fury – Settle in for Niagara Parks’ iconic 4D film as it shares the compelling tale of the last Ice Age. Guests will engage all of their senses as they’re transported back 10,000 years in time! It’s certainly one wild ride as riders learn about the formation of Niagara Falls and how it has changed over the years. 

Cross the Border (No Passport Needed!) with the Whirlpool Aero Car – Get a bird’s eye (and best) view of the Niagara Gorge with a ride on the iconic red cable car. Suspended between two points on the Canadian shore, enjoy the stunning Niagara River from 250 metres in the air. The highlight will be the whirlpool where the river suddenly bends as the Niagara River flows into the narrowest channel of the Niagara Gorge. As the river splits Canada from the USA, you’ll technically be in the USA for a few minutes before returning to Canadian territory – a quirky experience if you ask me!

Hike the Niagara Glen – This is my favourite hike in Niagara Falls (and possibly the Niagara Region) and for good reason. Descend the 80 steps into the gorge and one of the last pristine examples of Carolinian forest. Spend a few hours exploring the 4 kilometres of hiking trails as they’re spread across 8 different routes, intertwining for numerous loops throughout this beautiful area. To find out where the best views are, check out my full guide to hiking the Niagara Glen .

The Niagara Glen is a Must for Avid Hikers!

Biggest Way to Save Money with Niagara Parks

While these attractions are all incredible in their own right, their cost adds up quickly. If you’re on a budget during your Niagara Falls day trip, it might have you thinking you need to pick and choose. Luckily, Niagara Parks has something to help!

The Niagara Parks Adventure Passes allow guests to visit a number of their attractions at a discounted rate, meaning you can see everything you want to without breaking the bank. They have three tiers with three different levels of savings:

Adventure Pass Classic – Gives you access to Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara’s Fury, the White Water Walk and a 2-Day WEGO bus pass for $64 plus tax, saving 16% on entrance fees

Niagara Falls Pass – Gives you access to Journey Behind the Falls, the Niagara Parks Power Station and The Tunnel, Niagara’s Fury, the White Water Walk, Whirlpool Aero Car, and 2-Day WEGO bus and Falls Incline Railway passes for $84, saving 41% on entrance fees.

Niagara Adventure Pass – This one is the best value as it gives you access to Journey Behind the Falls, the Niagara Parks Power Station and The Tunnel, Niagara’s Fury, the White Water Walk, Whirlpool Aero Car, Butterfly Conservatory and Floral Showhouse as well as 3-day WEGO and Falls Incline Railway passes along with access to the Niagara-on-the-Lake shuttle for $104 plus tax, saving you 57% on entrance fees. PLUS Niagara Parks throws in entrance to their four historic sites: Old Fort Erie, the Laura Secord Homestead, the McFarland House, and the Mackenzie Printery.

Now, chances are you’re thinking that the Adventure Pass is tempting, but there’s no way you’ll be able to visit all of these sites in one day. While we WEGO and Falls Incline Railway have a set time frame, you can return on a later date to use the entrance passes! Expiration dates vary for each attraction so check your passes when you activate them to see how long their valid for.

Another way to save if you plan on driving for your Niagara Falls day trip is to purchase a daily parking pass as an add-on with any of the above attraction passes . For $30.97 + HST online, you’ll have in-and-out privileges to most of the Niagara Parks lots for an entire calendar day. Meaning if you want to head up to go to the White Water Walk, then park at the Table Rock Centre to then scoot up to the Butterfly Conservatory and return once again to Table Rock, you don’t have to worry about paying multiple times to park!

Enjoying the Cherry Blossoms at the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens

Looking to Extend Your Stay in Niagara?

You may only have one day budgeted for Niagara Falls but if you find yourself in the Niagara Region for longer, there are plenty of other great things to do in the area! 

With Niagara-on-the-Lake less than 30 minutes away, a plethora of waterfalls to explore, lots of opportunities for retail therapy, plenty of great hikes and more, it’s easy to spend more time hanging out close to Niagara Falls. 

Looking for More Things to Do in Niagara? Here Are Some Things to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake Chase Some Waterfalls Across the Niagara Region Check Out One (or More!) Of the Niagara Region’s Best Hikes Explore the Top Hiking Trails in St Catharines Hike Through Short Hills Provincial Park, Niagara’s Largest Park Additional Places Near Niagara Falls to Explore 15+ Incredible Things to Do in Niagara Falls That Are Free Top 5 Ways to Experience the Niagara Gorge Indoor Things to Do in Niagara Falls on a Rainy Day Enjoy a Glass at The Best Wineries in Niagara Celebrate the Region’s Liquid Gold at the Niagara Icewine Festival Don’t Miss This Self-Guided Tour of Vineland’s Wineries Take a Hike at the Woodend Conservation Area Explore the St Johns Conservation Area in Fonthill Follow the Bruce to the Beautiful Rockway Falls in Lincoln The Top Beamer Memorial Conservation Area Hiking Guide Things to Do in Port Colborne, Niagara’s Ship Shape City Plan a Spring Visit to See the Cherry Blossoms in Niagara

Disclaimer: This article was crafted in partnership with Niagara Parks however, all of the content and opinions outlined here, as always, are honest and speak to my personal experience.

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