Unleashing the Power of Niagara: Top Things to Do
If you’re planning an adventurous getaway, few destinations rival the sheer power of Niagara Falls. Long nicknamed the honeymoon capital of the world, it draws far more than newlyweds, with major attractions on both the Canadian and New York sides of the border, from boat tours at the base of the falls to the wineries of the surrounding region. Here are the top things to do on a Niagara visit.
Experience the Roaring Niagara Falls up Close
Niagara is really three waterfalls, Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, and the best way to feel their scale is from the water. The Maid of the Mist sails from the New York side to the base of Horseshoe Falls, where the spray and the roar do most of the talking; Niagara City Cruises runs a similar trip from the Canadian side. Expect to get soaked, as a poncho comes with the ticket.
Explore the Charming Niagara Parks
Beyond the falls, the Niagara Parkway is lined with green space and viewpoints. Journey Behind the Falls, near Table Rock in Queen Victoria Park, sends you down tunnels cut into the bedrock to observation decks set directly behind the sheet of Horseshoe Falls. Come in daylight to catch rainbows in the mist, or after dark when the falls are lit in shifting colours.
Ride on the Niagara SkyWheel
For a view from above, ride the Niagara SkyWheel, a 175-foot Ferris wheel in the middle of Clifton Hill. Its enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas run year-round and give you a wide look over the falls and the surrounding streets. The ride is especially worth it after dark, once the falls and Clifton Hill light up.
Marvel at the Butterfly Conservatory
The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory sits about 9 kilometres north of the falls on the grounds of the Botanical Gardens. Inside the climate-controlled dome, more than 2,000 butterflies from over 45 species fly freely along a network of paths through dense tropical planting. It’s an easy, weatherproof stop that works well on a rainy day or with kids.
Indulge in Rich Wines
The Niagara region is one of Canada’s main wine areas, and its cool climate is especially suited to icewine, a sweet dessert wine made from grapes left to freeze on the vine. Many wineries cluster around Niagara-on-the-Lake, a short drive from the falls, and most offer tastings and vineyard tours. A guided wine tour lets you visit several without worrying about driving.
A Day at the Clifton Hill
When you want something beyond the natural sights, Clifton Hill is Niagara Falls’ entertainment strip. The steep, neon-lit street packs in dinosaur-themed mini-golf, wax museums, arcades, haunted houses and the Niagara SkyWheel, all within a short walk of the falls.
Conclusion
There’s far more to Niagara than the falls themselves: boat tours, parks, gardens, wineries and the attractions of Clifton Hill can easily stretch a visit to a couple of days. Plan around whether you want to spend most of your time on the Canadian or New York side, since the border crossing is usually quick but adds time to your day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Niagara Falls be visited year-round?
Yes, you can visit Niagara Falls throughout the year. The summer months are typically the busiest. Winter visits offer a completely different perspective, with ice formations building up around the falls and along the gorge.
How long does it take to tour Niagara Falls?
A leisurely tour of the falls, taking in all the major sights, can be done in a day. If you want to explore everything the Niagara region has to offer at a relaxed pace, consider a stay of two to three days.
What is the best way to navigate around Niagara Falls?
On the Canadian side, Niagara Falls is served by the WEGO transit system, which links most major attractions. You could also walk, rent a bike, or drive.