This guide will give you an overview of some of the top attractions in the area.
Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet, and for good reason. It's a place where you can enjoy natural wonders, world-class attractions, and plenty of activities to keep you busy. Not to mention, the stunning views of the Falls are simply breathtaking. Whether you're planning a visit or just curious about what there is to see and do in Niagara Falls, this guide will give you an overview of some of the top attractions in the area.
Before you dive into the list of top attractions, it's important to note that Niagara Falls is a huge area. It is divided into two sections: the Canadian side and the American side. Each side has its own unique attractions, so it's worth visiting both if you have time. Depending on which side you decide to explore first, here are some of the top attractions you won't want to miss:
Journey Behind the Falls
If you're looking for an unforgettable experience, Journey Behind the Falls is a must-see attraction in Niagara Falls. This guided tour takes you behind the scenes of one of the most famous natural wonders on Earth. You'll descend into the rocks to explore tunnels and walkways that offer stunning views of the Falls from below. It's an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
The Journey Behind the Falls tour begins with a short ride on an elevator down to the bottom of the gorge. Once you reach the bottom, you'll enter a series of dark, winding tunnels that take you behind Horseshoe Falls. As you walk along the catwalks, you'll be treated to amazing views of both Horseshoe and American Falls. The tour concludes with a climb back up to street level, so be prepared for some stairs! In case you're worried about getting too close to the Falls, don't be! You will be a safe distance away and you won't get wet (unless it's raining). However, be sure to bring a light jacket, as temperatures in the gorge can be much cooler than at street level.
Journey Behind The falls is open every day from 9 am to 10 pm (9:30 pm during Daylight Savings Time). Depending on which guided tour of Niagara Falls you choose, this top attraction may already be included. Just make sure to book tickets in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory
The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. This state-of-the-art facility offers the perfect opportunity to observe and learn about butterflies up close, in a beautiful rainforest setting. It's home to over 2,000 colorful tropical butterflies from around the world, fluttering freely in an enclosed area. Visitors can even purchase food at the entrance and feed them right out of their hands!
In addition to its butterfly residents, the conservatory also houses a variety of other species such as birds, turtles, frogs, and fish. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits that provide educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. For instance, the "Life Cycle Lab" lets you watch metamorphosis up close, while the "Butterfly Garden" allows visitors to learn about pollination and other important processes. It can also be a great spot for photography and picnicking.
The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission is free with a valid passport or visa. It's also just minutes away from the Falls, so it's easy to make this top attraction part of your day trip!
Hornblower Niagara Cruises
For an up-close-and-personal view of Niagara Falls, hop on board one of the famous Hornblower Niagara Cruises. This boat tour takes you right to the base of Horseshoe Falls so you can experience its power and beauty firsthand. You'll also get a unique perspective from both sides of the border as the boats travel between Canada and America during the 45-minute tour. If you're feeling adventurous, upgrade your ticket for the soaking-wet version! This will take you even closer to the falls in an open-air vessel that is sure to leave you soaked (but exhilarated) in the end.
In addition to the incredible views, Hornblower Niagara Cruises also offer a variety of special packages such as sunset dinners and fireworks tours. You can even book private cruises for weddings and other celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries. Some tours even include Niagara wine tastings and gourmet meals.
Hornblower Niagara Cruises depart regularly throughout the day and evening, so you're sure to find a tour time that fits into your schedule. It's also important to note that tickets go quickly, so it's best to book yours in advance online or at the Hornblower ticket booth on Clifton Hill.
Skylon Tower
For a birds-eye view of Niagara Falls, head to the top of Skylon Tower. This 775-foot-high observation deck offers an incredible panoramic view of the city and the falls below. You can even see as far as Toronto on a clear day.
The ride up the tower is just as exciting with its revolutionary revolving dining room that rotates 360 degrees every hour! Stop in for lunch, dinner, or a snack before taking in the views from atop this iconic structure. There's also an outdoor observation platform at the summit, complete with a glass floor where you can look straight down to the ground below. This is the perfect spot to capture some amazing photos of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area if you're feeling brave enough!
If you are looking for souvenirs, the Skylon Tower also has a shopping area on the ground level with exclusive Niagara Falls-themed merchandise. Just keep in mind that Skylon Tower is only open seasonally and closes in winter months due to weather conditions.
Clifton Hill
For a more adventurous experience, head over to Clifton Hill – Niagara Falls’ lively entertainment district. The street is lined with thrilling attractions such as Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum, 4-D Moving Theater, and Zombie Attack Laser Tag. You can also explore the area's wax museums and check out live shows like the Great Canadian Midway.
Clifton Hill is one of the top places for souvenir shopping in Niagara Falls, too! From T-shirts to mugs and even glow-in-the-dark rocks, this district has everything you need to remember your trip long after you've returned home. There are also lots of food options here ranging from casual quick bites to family-friendly restaurants. You will even find a few local favorites like The Keg and Boston Pizza.
No matter what kind of experience you're looking for, Clifton Hill has something for everyone. It is open year-round and also offers its attractions at discounted rates during the off-season. It's a great place to visit before or after seeing Niagara Falls, whether you want to make the most of your day trip or extend it into an overnight stay!
Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens are a great place to visit if you're looking for a more tranquil experience. These lush gardens encompass over 100 acres of cultivated grounds including seasonal flower beds, ponds, and rock gardens. This is the perfect spot to take an afternoon stroll or have a picnic lunch in nature's beauty.
If you're visiting during the summer months, be sure to check out the Butterfly Conservatory. Here, you can observe thousands of colorful butterflies fluttering around their tropical habitat. This attraction is open year-round, but it's especially beautiful during the warmer seasons when flowers are in full bloom and vibrant colors fill the air!
The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens are also home to the Floral Showhouse, where you can find exotic plants and cacti from around the world. There are also many educational exhibits that explain how plants and flowers evolved in this part of Canada, so this may be a great place to take the kids if they're interested in nature and science. Not only that, but the gardens are free to explore, so it's an inexpensive activity for the whole family.
The grounds of the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens make a great backdrop for photos and videos if you're looking to capture some memories during your trip. It's open year-round, so it's easy to fit into your itinerary no matter when you visit Niagara Falls!
Marineland
Marineland is one of the most popular attractions in Niagara Falls and it's a must-see. This theme park features many exciting rides, shows, and exhibits where you can get up close to sea animals like dolphins, beluga whales, sea lions, and more!
At Marineland, you can also take part in interactive activities such as feeding stingrays or swimming with dolphins. There are educational programs available for kids who want to learn about marine life conservation or explore aquarium tanks filled with exotic fish from around the world. If you're looking for something a bit more thrilling, try out some of the roller coasters and water slides!
In addition to all its fun activities, Marineland also offers great entertainment options like musical shows, animal demonstrations, and classic movie screenings. It's open year-round and many of its activities are free with admission to the park. So if you're looking for a fun day out in Niagara Falls, Marineland is worth checking out! Explore all the attractions available here and make some amazing memories that will last a lifetime.
Niagara Skywheel
The Niagara Skywheel is a great way to take in the incredible views of Niagara Falls. This 175-foot Ferris wheel offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the falls, and beyond! With climate-controlled gondolas and LED lighting that illuminates the night sky, it's no wonder why this is one of the most popular attractions in town.
Your ride on the Skywheel allows you to experience all angles of Niagara Falls from up high. You can also get some amazing photos while taking your journey around this unique Ferris wheel. Whether you want to snap a classic selfie or capture a breathtaking sunset over Niagara, there are plenty of opportunities for picture-perfect memories here!
The Skywheel is considered to be the region's safest attraction, and there is no age limit for riders. So even if you have small children in tow, they can still experience the thrill of being up high! It's open year-round and provides a great way to get your bearings while exploring beautiful Niagara Falls.
Niagara Power Station
While the Niagara Power Station is not the most exciting attraction in town, it's definitely worth a visit if you're interested in learning more about the power generated by this amazing natural wonder. The Niagara Power Station harnesses the immense power of Niagara Falls to generate electricity, and it serves as an important part of Canada's larger electrical grid.
At the Niagara Power Station Visitors Center, you can learn all about how this massive hydroelectric facility works and its impact on the region. There are fascinating displays and interactive exhibits that explain why electricity generation is so essential for our modern lives. Plus, you get to take a tour of the actual plant with knowledgeable staff who will show you around while answering any questions you might have.
While walking through the facility, you'll also get to witness the power of Niagara Falls up close. It's a great way to better understand how this natural wonder is used to create energy and how important it is for our lives today. So if you're looking for an educational experience in Niagara Falls, be sure to check out the Niagara Power Station Visitors Center!
Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort
If you're looking to add a bit of excitement to your Niagara Falls adventure, the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort is a great spot to visit. This popular casino offers all kinds of gaming options including table games, slots, and even electronic gaming machines. You'll also find plenty of live entertainment with shows featuring comedians, musicians, and more!
The resort also has many restaurants and bars where you can enjoy some fine dining or relax with a nightcap. With its luxury hotel accommodations, it's an ideal place for both business travelers and vacationers looking for a romantic getaway. Whether you're there to try your luck at the tables or take in an awe-inspiring view of one of Canada's most impressive waterfalls, the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort is sure to make your visit to Niagara Falls one to remember.
Keep in mind however that it's important to gamble responsibly while visiting the casino and stick to your budget. Have fun, but don't forget that gambling should always be done in moderation!
From natural wonders to amusement parks and more, as you can see, there's something for everyone to enjoy during their stay here. Don't forget to explore all that this amazing city has to offer and make memories that will last a lifetime! With its stunning scenery and vibrant attractions, Niagara Falls is sure to be one of the highlights of your Canadian vacation.
