Niagara Falls Destination Guide
Niagara Falls Holidays
Niagara Falls is not a place that needs much introduction. Separating Canada from the United States in spectacular fashion, these iconic waterfalls feature a vertical drop of 167 feet (50.9 metres). It’s no surprise that such an impressive natural wonder draws in around 12 million curious visitors every year!
Take in fantastic views of the Falls from one of the many viewing platforms or, for something a little more adventurous, board a boat to experience the power of the Falls from below, take in the sights from above onboard a helicopter, or walk through the tunnels that are carved into the rock face behind the Falls themselves. Magic.
Top Attractions
Experience Niagara Falls in all its glory onboard the world-famous Maid of the Mist, which will take you up close to the belly of the beast. Departing from the US side, this is one boat ride that guarantees you’ll get wet.
Back on the Canadian side, the Journey Behind the Falls is a truly unique experience. Step inside an elevator and descend 45 metres behind the Falls, before exploring a series of tunnels that lead to misty viewing portals.
North of Niagara Falls you’ll find the immaculate Niagara Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Conservatory. Take some time out to explore the landscaped grounds and the rose, azalea and rhododendron gardens on foot, or get a little romantic with a tour via horse and carriage (May to October). The must-see attraction here is the stunning Butterfly Conservatory, which houses more that 2,000 exotic butterflies.
For more flying animal action, take a trip to Bird Kingdom. Located in the tourist district of Ontario, Bird Kingdom is the largest indoor free-flying aviary in the world. Take a journey through the lush jungle surrounds, which are home to some 400 colourful birds and a 40-foot tall waterfall.
Enjoy personal encounters with exotic birds and reptiles from around the world at the Explorer’s Base Camp, before venturing into the Night Jungle to see owls, bats and other nocturnal creatures.
Eat and Drink
Dine with stunning views of the Falls at any of the local restaurants in Niagara Falls, which range from family-friendly buffets and bistros to a stunning revolving restaurant that guarantees panoramic views. Steakhouses are definitely popular in this part of the world, but you’ll also find your fair share of Italian, Indian, Mexican and Chinese restaurants.
The colourful tourist promenade of Clifton Hill, which is lit up in all shades of neon at night, offers an array of chain restaurants, fun-filled attractions including the Niagara SkyWheel, and a range of nightclubs where you can dance the night away.
Where to Stay
There is a huge range of accommodation within easy access of the Falls, with premium hotels and affordable motels offering canal, Falls, lake and river views. Fallsview Boulevard, which is known for its up-market accommodation, is the place to be for a little luxury.
If you want to be really close to the action head to Falls Avenue, which features several hotels that claim to be so close you can feel the mist.
Shopping
Pick up gifts, mementos, trinkets and gadgets on Falls Boulevard and Clifton Hill. The nearby Canada One Factory Outlets is the place to go for brand name fashion, accessories and electronics stores, so be sure to snap up a bargain before you leave town.
A10-minute drive from Clifton Hill will take you to Niagara Square where you’ll find fashion, department shopping, jewellery, books, gifts and eateries all under one roof.
Niagara Falls Like a Local
Step back in time to 1812 with a visit to Laura Secord’s historic homestead. A Canadian heroine, Laura famously walked 32 kilometres through thick woods and waded through streams to warn British soldiers of an impending attack by the Americans during the war of 1812.
Learn about her fascinating story and adventures as you wander around this beautifully restored homestead complete with costumed tour guides to really set the scene.
