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I’ve been to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls twice now, once as a teenager and once last year as an adult. Both times were really memorable, seeing the falls for the first time was such an amazing moment, and then seeing them again after around 8 years was just as magical! The power of the falls is so amazing to witness.
Niagara Falls is a must visit destination, this 187 foot waterfall is something everyone should see at least once in their life. Fair warning, Niagara Falls is very touristy, which is no problem, but just know there’s no other place in Canada like it. You’ll see tons of bright lights, chain restaurants, wax museums, etc, it’s like Canada’s own mini Vegas strip.
Here’s my list of my favourite attractions that I think are worth the price, restaurants, and places to stay on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.
Things to do in Niagara Falls
Whirlpool Aero Car – I did this attraction for the first time on my last trip to Niagara Falls and it was super cool. You’ll get a different perspective here as they actually take you over the Niagara Whirlpool. It technically takes you over the US side and back multiple times due to how the river is shaped (but don’t worry, you don’t need your passport!). You can buy tickets here.
Journey Behind the Falls – This is another really interesting attraction. You’ll grab another rain poncho and travel in an elevator down to the bottom of the falls. Down there, you’ll be able to walk in tunnels underneath the falls and go to different lookout points that are right at the base of the falls and even behind the falls! This was a lot of fun and the tunnel system is really neat. Getting yet another different perspective! You’ll also be able to learn a lot about Niagara Falls’ history as you wait to get down there!
Skylon Tower – How about another unique perspective of the falls? The Skylon Tower takes you up to the highest vantage point in Niagara Falls, 775 feet above the falls! You get to head up to the rotating observation deck in a glass elevator and take in the views as you get up there! They even have a restaurant for those wanting to have dinner overlooking the falls!
Niagara SkyWheel – View Niagara Falls from the Skywheel! It’s typically open 10 am – 12 am so you can view the falls day or night! The Skywheel takes you 175 feet above the falls and is one of Canada’s largest observation wheels! Each gondola is fully enclosed and temperature-controlled, making it a super comfortable experience.
Niagara on the Lake – While not technically Niagara Falls, I always make a stop in Niagara on the Lake when I’m nearby. This charming town has tons of cute shops, walking trails, and even horse-drawn carriages! There’s also TONS of wineries in the area, go enjoy a few tastings and maybe even bring home a bottle! Drinking not your thing? Visit the historic Fort George!
Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens – Looking for a free activity? The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens is a free 99-acre garden with tons of vibrant flowers and greenery!
Maid of the Mist boat – This is probably my favourite Niagara Falls attraction. I’ve done this one twice, and it’s a lot of fun. You get a rain poncho (which you’ll definitely need), and you’ll get to ride down to the bottom of the falls. Be prepared to get soaked! There’s a Canadian and an American boat, and it’s so much fun to wave to the other boat!
Fireworks over Niagara Falls – Check out Canada’s longest running fireworks show, right at Niagara Falls! For times visit this site. Watch this free firework show right over the Falls!
There are truly so many attractions in Niagara Falls, and definitely something for everyone! If you’re looking for games and fun museums for kids, there are tons around Clifton Hill! Check out the Clifton Hill fun pass, and you might be able to save some money!
If there are a few different Niagara Falls-specific attractions that catch your eye, look into getting a Niagara Falls Adventure Pass to save some money!
Where to eat in Niagara Falls
Normally I try to stray away from suggesting chain restaurants, but Niagara Falls is a very touristy place with tons of those classic touristy restaurants. I do think it’s fun to lean into it every once in a while, so here are some restaurants I suggest that double as a fun tourist attraction!
- Rainforest Cafe – A classic touristy restaurant. Eat dinner in a rainforest with thunderstorms going off every 30 minutes!
- Margarittaville – Another super popular touristy restaurant. Feel like you’re on the beach at Margaritaville’s Niagara Falls restaurant!
- Smokes Poutinerie – If you’re coming from America, there’s a good chance this might be your first time in Canada. Check out Smoke’s Poutinerie to try one of Canada’s favourite foods, Poutine. It’s classically cheese curds, gravy, and fries, but Smoke’s Poutinerie has tons of styles of Poutine to try!
- Frank’s Pizzeria – In the mood for Pizza? Frank’s Pizza is known as one of the best pizza places around!
- Beavertails – Another Canadian classic, Beavertails are a delicious treat that you should definitely try at least once!
Where to stay in Niagara Falls
The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls – This hotel has one of the best views in Niagara Falls. We stayed here for one night and had an amazing time watching the free light show over the falls from our room each night
Sheraton Fallsview Hotel – This is another hotel with an amazing view of the falls. It’s a family-friendly hotel equipped with a waterpark for the kids, a spa, free shuttles to the casino, and so many more amenities!
Great Wolfe Lodge – Bringing the family? The Great Wolfe Lodge has a huge water park that will be great for kids to let out some energy while in Niagara Falls. They have tons of activities available to keep your kids busy!
Niagara Falls is a great place to spend a weekend, with tons to do! I highly recommend visiting at least once in your life. Seeing the waterfall for the first time is such a magical experience, even if you don’t do any of the attractions. Definitely add Niagara Falls to your must-visit list!
If i tell you I’ve never had the desire as a Canadian to go to Niagra falls, is that weird? Your post totally changed my mind! I think my family would love it there! Thanks for the entertaining read.
I was planning a Niagra trip before covid hit and Maid of the mist and niagra on the lake were definitely top of my list! Interesting to see how much else there is to do though!