Each year millions of tourists are astonished as 681,740 gallons of water cascade over Niagara's rocky precipice every second. This breathtaking natural wonder should definitely be on everyone's bucket list.
I’ve been visiting Niagara Falls almost every summer since I was
a kid and it never ceases to amaze me. If you only have a few days in the area
and need help deciding what to do, this guide features the
best attractions, restaurants and tours. (All prices are in Canadian dollars and do not include taxes.
Ticket prices may vary).
~ Tourist Passes ~
Whether you're planing a romantic getaway, family retreat or fun with friends, Niagara Parks offers several great deals to help save you money on popular attractions.
Adventure Pass
(Adult: $65 Child:
$43)
The classic Adventure Pass includes: Journey Behind the
Falls, Hornblower Cruise, White Water Walk, Niagara’s Fury 4D Experience, WEGO Bus for 2 days and a coupon book for additional savings. You can also upgrade
your package to include more attractions.
Clifton Hill Fun Pass
(Adult: $29.95 Child:
$19.95)
Includes 6 popular attractions: Niagara Skywheel,
Zombie Attack, Wild West Coaster, Movieland Wax Museum, Ghost Busters Dark Ride
and Dinosaur Adventure Golf.
Go-Transit & WEGO Pass
($16 - $30)
This seasonal summer package includes round-trip to Niagara by GO Train, a 2 day WEGO hop-on hop-off bus pass for all the main attractions and a new extension that
goes to Niagara-on-the Lake. (For more information click HERE)
~ Best Ways to See Niagara Falls ~
Niagara Falls is breathtaking no matter what your vantage
point. Many visitors simply walk along the sidewalk until they reach the ledge or observation area, but there are other options worth exploring.
1. Hornblower Cruises (included with Adventure Pass)
(Adult: $25.95 Child:
$15.95)
Hornblower (formerly known as Maid of the Mist) is the most
thrilling way to see the falls up close. Slip on your poncho, hop aboard
and get ready to be amazed as you sail directly towards the plunging water. The
boat takes you as close as possible so prepare to get wet. For more info click HERE (fireworks and night cruises also
available)
2. Journey Behind The Falls (included with Adventure Pass)
(Adult: $19.95 Child:
$13)
This underground expedition takes you on a wonderful journey
through 130 year old bedrock tunnels leading to unique viewing portals. In the winter it looks like an icy wonderland.
3. Clifton Hill Skywheel (included with Clifton Hill Fun Pass)
(Adult: $11.99 Child:
$6.99)
For an amazing bird’s eye view of the Falls and park, head to Clifton Hill and ride the Skywheel. The climate control,
fully-enclosed gondolas operate all year and rise 175 feet (53 meters). The
wheel is also a great way to see the fireworks display that takes place from Friday to Sunday at 10 pm during the summer and select holidays.
4. Niagara Helicopters
(Adult: $145 Couples:
$280 Child: $89)
If you are not afraid of heights, embark on a scenic helicopter tour above the falls, whirlpool and gorge. For
photographers, this is a wonderful opportunity to capture stunning photos of Niagara.
Where to Stay
There are many hotels in Niagara Falls and they range in price based on location, chain and class. There are luxury hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, family resorts, historic suites and budget-friendly motels. Rates are highest during the summer (peak season) and tend to be lowest in the winter and early spring.
I've stayed at many of the hotels near the Falls, but since I can't review them all, here are my top picks for a relaxing getaway.
Sterling Inn and Spa takes comfort to a new level. This luxury boutique hotel is known for their award-winning fine dining restaurant and beautiful suites that cater to couples.
This is the perfect place for a spa weekend because each room has a steam waterfall shower with body jets OR a deep soaker jacuzzi tub, comfortable king size bed, robes, slippers and a cozy fireplace.
We had the large double suite with a spacious living room, sitting area and wet bar. At Sterling, breakfast in bed is always included and make sure to check out their 5 star restaurant - AG Inspired Cuisine - named one of Canada's top fine dining restaurants.
(Rates often start at $130 - $400+ per night on Expedia, depending on the season).
My Second choice is Marriott on the Falls (the one with the Milestones Restaurant). Our suite was on the 31st floor - there is only one room per floor in this category ($799.00 per night).
The view is spectacular and I loved the jacuzzi tub and comfortable bed. Parking is an additional $30 per night. Although the suite is spacious, the amenities and decor is quite basic.
Embassy Suites is also quite popular for its falls view rooms and proximity to the casino. The hotel has a pool, nice patio, gym, arcade and a few restaurants including The Keg Steakhouse and Starbucks.
Rates start at around $163 per night and onsite parking is $70 per day (offsite parking nearby is available for $30 - $35).
The best thing about Embassy Suites is the location and view. You can take the funicular/cable car at the back of the hotel directly down to the falls.
I’ve stayed at the Hilton Niagara several times because they have nice rooms, great restaurants and the location is ideal if you want to try your luck at the casino.
To make the trip even more special, book a falls view room with a jacuzzi tub and fireplace. You will be able to enjoy the fireworks from the comfort of your suite.
If you stay at the Hilton, check out their dining packages. Watermark Restaurant on the 33rd floor has a stunning panoramic view of Niagara Falls which is the perfect setting for a romantic date.
My favorite fine dining restaurant at the Hilton is Corso – specializing in Italian cuisine. They have live music and incredible food.
If you’re in the mood for steak, Brasa Brazilian Restaurant is also located in The Hilton and offers live entertainment as well.
In the lobby of the Hilton you will find a Starbucks and other shops.
For a late night bite or quick breakfast, take the indoor Skywalk from the Hilton directly to the Casino and follow signs to the Fallsview Casino Food Court (located on the ground floor towards the back).
Parking at the Hilton can cost between $50 - $75 per day so you might want to park at the casino or find a more affordable option.
If you are traveling with kids, you might prefer to stay at Great Wolf Lodge which features an indoor water park and family-friendly daily events.
~ Attractions & Adventures ~
Clifton Hill
No visit to Niagara is complete without exploring Clifton
Hill, and at night the street comes alive with colorful lights, music and the
scent of sweet treats.
Some highlights including: laser tag, bowling, Midway games and arcades, mini golf, Guinness World Record Museum, Mystery Maze, Ripley’s 4D Theater, The Beer Garden Karaoke Bar, patios, restaurants, several haunted houses and many souvenir/specialty shops. Indulge in whatever peaks your interest - there is something for everyone!
Some highlights including: laser tag, bowling, Midway games and arcades, mini golf, Guinness World Record Museum, Mystery Maze, Ripley’s 4D Theater, The Beer Garden Karaoke Bar, patios, restaurants, several haunted houses and many souvenir/specialty shops. Indulge in whatever peaks your interest - there is something for everyone!
The Fudge Factory
The Fudge Factory is a Clifton Hill classic and one of my
favorite places to get candy apples and chocolate dipped everything. To satisfy your sweet-tooth I also recommend Sweet Jesus Ice Cream Shop (at the bottom of the hill) or head to The Hershey Store for delicious chocolate covered strawberries.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
(Adult: $14.00 Child:
$8.00)
Go-Carts Niagara Speedway
(Driver: $12 per 5
mins Rider: $4.00)
Dinosaur Adventure Golf with erupting volcano
(Adult: $10.00 Child:
$6.00)
Ripley’s Believe it or Not
(Adult: $18.99 Child:
$11.99)
Milestones Restaurant at the Marriott Hotel
At 6755 Fallsview Blvd you will find one of my favorite spots to enjoy a romantic dinner. This particular
Milestones Restaurant serves good food and has a phenomenal view of
Niagara Falls.
Pizza is my favorite food so if you’re looking for a decent slice try Zappi’s Pizzeria on Stanley Avenue. The crispy dough is loaded with fresh toppings and spices. It isn't the best pizza, but it's okay for a quick bite and they have a nice patio.
Zappi's also makes pretty good sweet potato fries.
Kasbah Mediterranean Restaurant serves a wide selection of Greek food with a 4 course dinner special. I like their large covered patio and laid-back vibe.
If you’re in the mood for really good Indian food, try Flavours & Spices located in downtown Niagara Falls. They have a bar, pool table and great service. The restaurant is open until 4 am daily.
*Location: 4740 Valley Way, Niagara Falls
Closer to the tourist area, you will find Moksha Indian Bistro. This restaurant is a great spot for cocktails and the food is tasty. They also offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and halal options.
*Location: 5993 Stanley Ave, Niagara Falls.
For the adventure of a lifetime, a Jet Boat Tour is the
most thrilling experience in Niagara.
This tour is not for the faint of heart. The boat plunges through turbulent rapids – dipping and diving between crashing waves.
Tourist areas aren't usually known for spectacular food, but if you want to eat on Clifton Hill at a great patio, Kelsey's is pretty good. .
Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours
(Adult: $67 Child: $45.00)
This tour is not for the faint of heart. The boat plunges through turbulent rapids – dipping and diving between crashing waves.
The
open boat provides the most exciting ride but if you prefer to stay dry, opt
for the fully-covered Jet Dome instead.
To give you an idea of just how choppy the water is, the rapids are classified from 1-6 (six being the most treacherous). This jet boat tour ventures into class 5 rapids for the most intense adrenaline rush!
If you sit in the front, prepare to swallow a lot of
water and be hit in the face by powerful waves. There are no words
to describe the unrelenting force but the water often fills the boat waist high. It feels like being completely submerged under the cold river.
Enclosed Dome Boat
If you have trouble holding your breath, sit towards the middle
or back. You will still get wet but you won't inhale as much water.
All the gear you need is provided but I brought my own water
shoes. Lockers and change rooms are also available
on-site so bring extra shoes, clothes and a towel.
There is a Jet Boat shuttle bus pick-up and kiosk at the Flower Clock which is also a stop for
the WEGO Bus. For more information or to book your tour, visit the website at
whirlpooljet.com.
Niagara Belle Lunch or Sunset Dinner Cruise
A short drive from Niagara Falls you will find a secluded
little hideaway where the Niagara Belle River Boat docks (same location as the
Jet Boat Tours). This old-fashion cruise serves a hearty meal while serenading you with live
music as you sail past Niagara-on-the-Lake and Fort George. Enjoy the
sunset and warm breeze while sipping delicious cocktails and lounging on the open
deck.
(Update: this tour may have been temporarily cancelled, please check the website).
*Fallsview Casino Resort, Shops & Dragonfly Nightclub
Try your luck at the slots or dance the night away at Dragonfly.
Casino Atrium
Things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a picturesque little town with
exquisite architecture, horse and carriage rides, scenic roads, bed & breakfasts, boutiques,
parks, restaurants and fresh produce markets. This region is also known for its award-winning wine.
Explore the downtown area and browse the specialty shops for unique souvenirs.
Enjoy a scenic drive or bike along River Road and explore the shaded hiking trails along the escarpment. There are many great spots for picnics.
Snap a photo in front on the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel.
Grab a delicious Chimney Cake at Budapest Bake Shop. My favorite is the Jalapeño Cheddar - it is soft, flavorful and savory.
If you're in the mood for something sweet, try the Nutella Walnut Chimney fresh out of the oven and lightly coated in sugar. The shop also serves gourmet ice cream sundaes and tasty sandwiches. Visit their website at budapestbakeshop.com.
The Niagara region is popular for fresh local produce and one of my favorite spots for delicious pastries, fruit, homemade ice cream and pie is Walkers Country Market. In June you can get strawberry, apple and cherry pie.
Fresh baked strawberry pie
Right beside Walkers Market you can take a photo in front of the world's smallest church - Living Water Wayside Chapel.
Stop for a refreshing ice wine slushie at The Ice House Winery and check out Brock's Monument.
Take a family photo in front of the Flower Clock.
Marvel at Cham Shan's Buddhist Temple.
Stop at The Garrison House for juicy burgers, Cast Iron Cheesy Fire Chicken and Sticky Toffee Pudding. This restaurant was featured on the Food Network's So You Gotta Eat Here! (The Menu changes regularly)
Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Tours
If you are booking a wine tour, I highly recommend Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits (look
for the Lakeview Wine sign on Niagara Stone Road). This company is the third
largest producer of VQA wines in Ontario with many brands to choose from.
The beautiful vineyard is perfect for date night or a unique outing with friends and the cozy boutique is a wonderful place to sample delicious wines.
The facility is very accommodating if you are
interested in booking a private tour or celebrating a special occasion. They
even host fun events including paint night, wine tasting paired with food, cocktail mixology classes and live music in the vineyard every
Friday in July.
Don't forget to try the ice wine!
For more information or to book a tour, visit the website at lakeviewwineco.com.
The Niagara Grape & Wine Festival
The Niagara Wine Festival is always fun. It takes place from September 14-29th and the Ice Wine Festival begins January 10th - 26th (weekends only).
To save money and get the most value, book the Discovery Pass which usually includes wine and food pairings at several vineyards. Plan which wineries you'd like to visit, purchase some Groupon deals and look for discount codes online.
Peller Estates is a must because they have a lovely cellar and a unique ice bar kept at -10 degrees Celsius.
For more information on the Grape and Wine Festival visit the website HERE.
Other wineries I highly recommend are:
*Reif Estate Winery
*Between The Lines Winery
*Inniskillin
*Jackson-Triggs
*Pillitteri Estates Winery
*Wayne Gretzky Estates
Wine Tasting in the Winter
Escaping to the falls can be a wonderful winter getaway when you need rest and relaxation. There aren't as many tourists, it is much quieter and hotels are less than half price.
Konzelmann also offers a Fireside Flight Wine Tasting Experience with a cozy campfire and everything you need to make delicious s'mores. For more information visit their website at Konzelmann.ca
Places to Eat Just Outside of Niagara
If you're not in the mood to eat at touristy restaurants or pay high prices for mediocre food on Clifton Hill, there are many options in nearby St. Catherine's.
Rollin' Pizza has a fabulous selection of delicious dishes like this mouthwatering Magic Mushroom Pizza with garlic butter, thyme, rosemary, gorgonzola, mozzarella and creamy white sauce.
The toppings are fresh, the dough is crispy and the menu is unique. They also serve Greek pizza, pirogi pizza, jackfruit pizza and dill pickle pizza!
If you're vegan and looking for a great meal, Rollin' Pizza has an entire menu just for you.
The 2 ft slice is a pizza lover's dream and you need both hand to holds it! Visit the website at rollinpizza.ca.
For a healthy lunch I recommend Fiesta Empanada. These yummy Filipino style empanadas are baked fresh daily (never greasy) and stuffed with spinach and feta, beef, chicken and veggies. Visit the website at fiesta-empanada.com
Pita On The Run is a great place for tasty Mediterranean take-out. The meals are a bit small but the chicken is seasoned to perfection! (Address: 7000 McLeod Rd, Unit-3, Niagara Falls)
Paesano Pizza in St. Catherines makes the best panzerotti in town! They are huge and stuffed to the brim with delicious filling. The perfectly cooked crust is brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with fresh parmesan. (Address: 595 Carlton Street, St. Catherines)
More Attractions
If you are looking for a quiet place to take in the scenery and escape the crowds, head to Oaks Garden Theater (at the bottom of Clifton Hill).
There are plenty of trees and benches with a great view of the American Falls.
*New WildPlay MistRider Zipline to the Falls
(Adult: $59.00 –
single ride)
If you’re feeling adventurous, the new zipline takes you on a breathtaking ride through the gorge and down
2,200 ft towards the Horseshoe Falls Observation Deck.
Photo: Niagara Wild Play
Bird Kingdom
(Adult: $17.95 Child:
$13.95)
The largest free-flying
indoor aviary in the world featuring a variety of exotic species.
Butterfly Conservatory
(Adult: $15 Child:
$9.75)
Home to thousands of
vibrant butterflies.
Botanical Gardens
(FREE admission, parking is $5)
Greg Freewin Dinner Theater
(See Website for
ticket info)
Vegas-style magic show with jaw-dropping illusions, tigers and exotic birds (also available with dinner).
Whirlpool Aero Car
(Adult: $15 Child:
$9,75)
Antique cable car ride over the Niagara Gorge, rapids and
whirlpool. If you are not comfortable with heights, you should still visit this beautiful lookout point.
Skylon Tower Observation Deck
(Prices vary depending on the combo pack you choose)
The Skylon Tower is an iconic part of Niagara’s skyline and
the observation deck rises 775 ft above the falls. Plan a romantic evening at the revolving dining room - it is a lovely setting to celebrate special occasions.
Fallsview Indoor Water Park
(Day Passes: $46.99 -
$51.99)
3 acres of indoor family fun, 16 water slides, hot springs,
sun deck and massive indoor waiting pool.
Outlet Collection of Niagara
This Outlet Mall is located off the highway, just before you arrive in Niagara. It is Canada's largest open air shopping mall.
Canada One Outlet Mall
Canada One is located in Niagara, on Lundy's Lane which is easier to access while staying in the area. It isn't as good as Outlet Collection but it does have a Rocky Mountain Chocolate.
Cherry Blossom Season
If you are in the Niagara region mid-April to early May, you’ll
catch cherry blossom season! The parks, gardens and country roads are bursting
with fragrant flowers. I visited late May (22 – 24th)
and many trees were still in bloom.
Kingsbridge Park
Summer in Ontario is also a great time to enjoy the lilac bushes.
For more information or to plan your trip, visit niagarafallstourism.com
Fore more travel tips, photos and food recommendations, please follow me on Instagram @DiaryofaTrendaholic
Special thanks to the tour companies, restaurants and hotels that sponsored and contributed to this guide.
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