Discovered in 1678, officially recognised as a national attraction in 1812, representing Ontario, Canada, in the northeast corner, entering at 1,060 feet, standing at 176 feet, with 150,000 gallons of water: Niagara Falls! I hope you're reading this with Michael Buffer's voice in mind.
With those figures, you'd think Niagara Falls would be on the list of the 7 Wonders of the World. Surprisingly, that's not the case. Attracting over 8 million visitors in one year, those who have seen it leave in awe. If nothing else, Niagara Falls is considered Canada's number 1 wonder.
As well as the Falls, there's plenty to see and do in the town of Niagara Falls. If you've been here before and are wondering what to do on your next visit, or if this will be your first time and you're looking for some great family activities, you'll be happy to know that there's something exciting to do in all seasons.
Read on to discover the best things to do in Niagara Falls, broken down by season.
Explore the Best of Niagara Falls
Once you find yourself in the captivating city of Niagara Falls, Ontario, you'll be mesmerized by the range of accommodation options available on http://www.ontariocahotel.com/en/5-stars/, from luxurious 5-star hotels to cozy budget motels. After settling in and rejuvenating with a quick nap, it's time to step out and bask in the glorious Niagara Falls weather, all while immersing yourself in the vibrant spirit of the city.
Embark on a thrilling adventure by taking a boat tour of the world-famous Niagara Falls. Feel the mist on your face as you cruise along the rushing waters, getting an up-close and personal view of this breathtaking natural wonder. As the tour guide shares interesting facts about the falls, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for their magnificence.
Winter Explorations
Sanctuary of Butterflies
Imagine a place somewhat akin to the Niagara Falls Aquarium, yet astonishingly dedicated to butterflies. Nestled on Niagara Parkway, the Butterfly Conservatory offers a warm retreat during the chilly winter months. This wondrous locale, accessible through this link, is a vibrant abode for almost 2,000 butterflies that colorfully fly around a glass-enveloped veranda with cascading waterfalls and lush tropical flora. It's a living exhibit of biodiversity with more than 40 distinctive butterfly species.
Luminous Celebration
Visiting Niagara Falls in winter is no less fascinating, the cold won't bother you at all. Every year, from the 20th of November through December's end, the city morphs into an illuminated wonderland during the Festival of Lights. This scintillating event decorates the city with 2 million sparkling lights over an 8 km stretch, permeating several parks and the downtown area of Niagara Falls. Whether you are exploring by foot or driving through, you get an unparalleled opportunity to behold the nocturnal glamour of Niagara Falls.
Blossoming Season
Flavors of Niagara on the Lake
Unlock a cornucopia of tastes unique to the Niagara region. This special event, doubling as an immersive tour, presents an opportunity to savor specialty cuisines and wines from 5 distinguished wineries and 4 top-notch gourmet restaurants. Post attendance at the Flavors of Niagara on the Lake, you can certainly declare yourself a gastronome. As an exclusive event, entry passes must be acquired in advance. Choose from one of the 3 enchanted spring weekends.
Niagara’s Green Sanctuary - The Botanical Gardens
The advent of spring colors the Botanical Gardens in hues of enchantment, making it the best season for a visit. Spanning across an expanse of 99 acres, the garden showcases an exquisite assembly of perennials, rhododendrons, azaleas, a variety of herbs and vegetable plants, and a world-renowned rose garden boasting 2,400 roses. This nature's paradise can be accessed free of charge, delighting visitors with its riot of colors.
In the summer months, there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
One of the most famous areas to explore is Clifton Hill, a bustling district where you can easily reach your daily step count. As you make your way towards the magnificent falls, indulge in mouthwatering ice cream, fluffy candyfloss, and delicious fudge. Additionally, Clifton Hill offers an array of family-friendly attractions such as Dinosaur Adventure Golf and The Great Canadian Midway, an arcade with over 300 games, offering entertainment for everyone.
For an unforgettable experience, don't miss the Niagara Hornblower Cruise. This thrilling adventure allows you to get up close and personal with the American Falls and Horseshoe Falls. Wearing a vibrant red poncho, you'll remain dry while being enveloped in the refreshing mist from the cascading water. The proximity to the falls will leave you awe-inspired, and if you seek a moment of tranquility, this breathtaking cruise is the perfect choice.
Experience the thrill of Clifton Hill and the tranquility of the Hornblower Cruise; Niagara Falls in the summer truly has something for everyone.
Niagara Grand Prix
Get the thrill of being a real-life racer like the legendary Lewis Hamilton at the extensive Niagara Raceway. This adrenaline-fueled adventure, spanning 4 broad acres, features a winding 2,000ft multi-level course. You will be zooming straight, negotiating sharp turns and corners, everything under the guise of safety. The speed of each kart caps at 32km/h, offering an exhilarating racing experience that's fast without being reckless.
Helicopter expedition
The familiar sight of Niagara Falls takes a mesmerizing twist when viewed from a chopper. This unique, twelve-minute journey presents panoramic visuals of the iconic Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, the Rainbow Bridge and the Queen Victoria Park. While it's unnecessary to reserve your flight before your visit, it's recommended to call ahead to check on weather conditions. It's quite a boast-worthy achievement to have flown in a helicopter.
Fall
Discover the hidden gems of Niagara Falls Ontario during the fall season. Embark on a fascinating journey at the Niagara Parks Powerhouse, a historic landmark that was once the largest power plant in the region. From 1905 to 2006, this Romanesque building generated electricity for the area and now stands as an immersive museum showcasing captivating exhibits, unique artifacts, and captivating stories. Immerse yourself in the evening show 'Niagara's Power Transformed', where vibrant lights and funky music create a lively atmosphere.
For a serene and picturesque adventure, explore the Whitewater Walk trail along the Niagara River. This less-known gem offers the perfect opportunity to marvel at the vibrant autumn colors while enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the surroundings. As you stroll along the trail, listen to the soothing sound of the wind rustling through the trees and the invigorating crash of river rapids. With fewer crowds, the Whitewater Walk provides a peaceful experience that truly captures the essence of autumn. This enchanting experience is available until early November, making it an ideal autumn destination.