Are you looking for the best things to do in Niagara Falls on the Canadian side? We have visited countless times and have enjoyed so many amazing experiences, so we decided to rank the best things to do in Niagara Falls in order. New attractions open every year, so whether it’s your first time visiting Niagara Falls or your 20th, you will always have a great time at this sensational natural wonder of the world.
Many people only make a quick day trip to Niagara from Toronto, and while you can see a lot in one day, it is worth spending two or three days exploring the Honeymoon Capital of the World.
Things to do in Niagara Falls
When you visit Niagara Falls, we highly recommend getting the Adventure Pass to see all the top attractions with one ticket. Sold through Niagara Parks, the Niagara Falls Adventure Pass gives you discounted access to Journey Behind the Falls, Hornblower, Whitewater Walk, Niagara’s Fury, and the Butterfly Conservatory, with unlimited transportation on the WeGo People Mover to each activity. See packages and details here.
No visit to Niagara Canada would be complete without visiting the Street of Fun! The Clifton Hill Fun Pass gets you into 6 Niagara Falls attractions in the Clifton Hill area, including the Niagara SkyWheel, Movieland Wax Museum and the 6D Interactive adventure rides Cosmic Coaster 4D Theatre, and Zombie Attack 4D Theatre, Ghostblaster’s Dark Ride, Wizard Golf or Dinosaur Golf! Clifton Hill is also a great place to look for things to do in Niagara Falls at night or with families. Pick up a Clifton Hill Pass before your Niagara adventure.
Dave and I have been visiting Niagara Falls year after year since 1996, and it is our “go-to” getaway from Toronto. So put your travel planning hat on and start ticking off what adventure you want to do in Niagara Falls next!
1. Whirlpool Jetboat
Located just a short 10-minute drive up the Niagara Parkway from the city center of Niagara Falls, Canada, the Whirlpool Jetboat Tour is hands down the best thing to do in Niagara Falls for outdoor and adventure lovers. Book your JetBoat Tour in advance here.
Choose which jet boat tour you want—open or closed, wet or dry. We’ve done both and while the wet is a total thrill, and I prefer the dry ride, as you really get to take in the beauty of the Niagara Gorge, passing through the oldest state park in the USA and the beautiful Niagara Glen area on the Canadian Site. The trip takes you along the Niagara River to the Class 6 rapids of the whirlpool.
Feel the power of the Niagara River as you cut through rapids with its triple turbo diesel water jet system for both propulsion and steering. This exhilarating jet boat tour is pure adrenaline. Check out Whirlpool Jet Boar Tours for availability here.
2. Helicopter Tour
If there is one place to take a helicopter tour, it is over Niagara Falls. Tours are quite reasonable, starting at 186 CAD. You’ll fly over the Niagara Gorge, Horseshoe Falls, Bridalveil Falls and the American Falls. Book your helicopter tour here.
3. Hornblower
Called the Maid of the Mist in the USA, The Hornblower is the best experience on both sides of the border. The Hornblower has been operating since 1846, shuttling people across to the United States. In 1885, they started taking passengers to an up-close and personal view of the Horseshoe Falls.
It is a thrilling experience to be so close to the falling water. The boat goes right inside the Horseshoe Falls as thundering water surrounds you. You will get very wet as you go directly into the mist of Horseshoe Falls, but rain ponchos are provided and this is an experience you must not miss. Book the Hornblower in Advance – Skip the ticket booth and take the funicular straight to the dock with easy cancellation within 24 hours of activity.
4. WildPlay Zipline to the Falls
If you want to have one of the most epic ziplining experiences, hop on the WildPlay Zipline to the Falls. This thrilling ride takes you high above the Niagara Gorge, offering a bird’s-eye view of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, The American, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Ride the elevator to 67 meters (220 feet) above the falls and then soar along the Niagara River Gorge for 670 meters (2,200 feet), where you’ll reach speeds of 70+ kph (40+ mph). This is one Niagara attraction you’ll never forget. Book your ZipLine in Advance here to beat the rush.
5. Niagara Power Station
The Niagara Falls Power Station has quickly become a fan favorite of the best things to do in Niagara Falls. Take a glass elevator down 54 meters (180 feet) to explore the first major Canadian power plant on the Niagara River. You’ll walk the 670-meter (2,200-feet) long tunnel that leads to an observation deck at the Niagara River.
The interactive museum showcases the rich history of the Niagara Falls area. You’ll see how pioneers harnessed the power of Horseshoe Falls. At night, there is a sound and light show that features an interactive light display set to music.
The tunnel is an amazing walkthrough of history and a feat of engineering, and it comes out on a fantastic observation deck with views of Canada’s Horseshoe Falls and the American Falls.
6. Journey Behind the Falls
The Hornblower may be the Fall’s most famous attraction, but we love the Journey Behind the Falls even more! When visiting Niagara Falls, make sure to add this to your bucket list.
Located at the Table Rock Welcome Center, You descend 125 feet from above the falls to the heart of the cascade. You then get to explore 130-year-old tunnels that weave behind the waterfalls. Feel the power of the Niagara River and hear the thunder of the water crashing.
After you explore behind the scenes of the Canadian horseshoe falls, you come out to an observation deck right beside the falls, where you’ll get to see them firsthand from the outdoor viewing platform. It’s another attraction in Niagara Falls that’s sure to get your clothes very wet, but don’t worry, rain ponchos are provided.
The WeGo Bus stops here and there are restaurants, souvenir stores, and cafes, and you can also watch Niagara’s Fury at the Table Rock Center, which is included in your Adventure Pass. The Niagara adventure pass makes the perfect gift. Check out the options here.
7. Niagara SkyWheel
The Niagara SkyWheel can be seen throughout the city, and when visiting Niagara Falls, you really must go for a ride. This 175-foot-tall Ferris wheel offers fabulous views of the falls and the surrounding area. Each enclosed gondola can hold up to six passengers, and they are climate-controlled. There is a running commentary during the revolutions, and you have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the scenery.
Get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds. We went on a weekday and were first up, so we had the gondola all to ourselves. The Niagara SkyWheel is included in your Clifton Hill Fun Pass
8. Skylon Tower
Skylon Tower isn’t just a dining establishment; it is also an observation deck and one of the top Niagara Falls attractions. The Skyon Tower is Niagara’s answer to Toronto’s CN Tower, and it really does offer the best views of Niagara Falls, Canada, and the American Falls. There is an outdoor viewing platform that takes you 360 degrees for panoramic views. Book this best of Niagara Falls at Night Tour including entry to the Skylon Tower
A 52-second ride takes you to the top of the Skylon Tower for views of the Falls, the Niagara Gorge, and the surrounding area,, including Buffalo, New York, across the river. There is an observation deck and a 4D movie theater. Of course, while you are there, you can have dinner at the revolving restaurant.
9. Whirlpool Aerocar
Now, moving a little out of the city is the Whirlpool Aerocar. If you have visited Niagara Falls a few times, this is a great attraction to add to the list. What we don’t love about this is that lines can get long since it can only do one trip at a time.
Located along the WeGo route, the Whirlpool Aerocar is a part of some Niagara Packages. It is quite a thrill taking you out to the middle of the Niagara Gorge to see the massive whirlpool in the middle of the Niagara River.
10. Illumination of the Falls & Fireworks
Fireworks happen nightly in the summer months, and they are one of the best things to do in Niagara Falls for free! When dusk sets in, the falls are illuminated, and during the summer months, there is a fantastic fireworks display.
Be sure to get your place early; it fills up, and you need to scout your spot and stick to it. You can also choose one of the many restaurants that overlook the falls and eat a late dinner for a spectacular view.
Fireworks happen at different times throughout the year. The Winter Festival of Lights spans over 40 Nights during the Festival from November to Feb. and nightly in the summertime. The falls are illuminated each night, so even if fireworks aren’t going on, you will still have a light show every night of the year.
11. Dine with a View of The Falls
Since I mentioned watching fireworks from one of the restaurants overlooking the falls, I thought I should let you know what restaurants in Niagara Falls overlook the falls. Eating with a view is one of our favorite things to do in Niagara Falls. I never tire of that view. Some of the best restaurants with a view include The Keg Steakhouse, Massimo’s Italian, Skylon Tower Restaurant, Prime Steakhouse, Table Rock Restaurant, and Morton’s Grill. Read our complete:15 Best Views of Niagara Falls
12. Wonders of Magic Show
If casinos aren’t your thing, take in a Magic Show at Niagara Falls. The Vegas-style show is a wild magic illusion show featuring Greg Frewin at the Greg Frewin Theatre.
This is the longest-running show in Niagara, with 1 Million Guests enjoying the World Champion of Magic and Canada’s Top Illusionist performance. We saw this years ago and plan on going back to enjoy a buffet dinner followed by a magic show. It showcases illusions, classic magic, and a fun story for families and adults. Check out the Evolution of Magic for more details. Book tickets in advance here.
13. White Water Walk
The White Water Walk is an incredible opportunity to get up close to the Class 6 rapids of the Niagara River. Included in your adventure pass, an elevator takes you 70 meters (229 feet) down to the Niagara Gorge to a wooden platform built right beside the largest series of standing waves in North America
The Whitewater Walk is open from mid-April to mid-November and can be accessed from the Niagara Parkway or the WeGo People mover, which is included in your adventure pass. It is an easy and accessible outdoor adventure.
14. Niagara Glen
Residents won’t be too thrilled with me sharing the Niagara Glen area of Niagara Falls. There are a host of trails covering an area of 42 acres with old-growth trees, massive boulders, and beautiful scenery. If you are looking for an outdoor adventure, you can go hiking anytime between sunrise and sunset. Admission to Niagara Glen Nature Reserve is free.
You may see people bouldering in the Glen. If you decide to give it a try, bouldering permits can be purchased at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre. Check out: Niagara Falls Road Trip – The Best of the Niagara Parkway
15. Nightmares Fear Factory
Want to get your blood pumping again? This is one scary haunted house. Located at the top of Clifton Hill across from Ripley’s Believe it or Not, Nightmares is a must for anyone who loves a good scare.
It is scary, alright; legend has it that it was built on the site of an old coffin factory. The proprietor was killed in a prank gone bad and has haunted the halls ever since. If you become too scared inside the maze of nightmares, you can chicken out. Don’t feel bad if you do, over 100,000 people have chickened out over the years. We went in thinking we’d be fine, but let me tell you, I held on to Dave for dear life!
16. Clifton Hill Fun Pass
A visit to Niagara Falls would not be complete without visiting Clifton Hill, the Street of Fun on the Falls. Kids and adults alike will love Dracula’s Castle, Ripley’s Believe it or Not, Wax Museums, Midways, and haunted houses. Read all about Clifton Hill here.
This area also has Casino Niagara and the Fallsview Indoor Water Park, making it a great destination for all ages. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, cafes, and attractions along Clifton Hill, and it is worth walking up from the Oakes Garden Theater, which has great views of the falls.
A great option is to buy the Clifton Hill Fun Pass, which gives you access to six Niagara Falls attractions. It gives you access to many of the attractions in the Midway and on Clifton Hill, like the Niagara SkyWheel, Movieland Wax Museum, and the 6D Interactive adventure rides Cosmic Coaster and Zombie Attack! Clifton Hill is also a great place to go when looking for things to do in Niagara Falls at night.
Some other not-to-miss attractions on Clifton Hill include Ripley’s Believe it or Not, Great Canadian Midway, Niagara Speedway, Hershey’s Chocolate World, Rainforest Cafe, Niagara Falls History Museum, and the Fun Zone. This area is fun for the whole family.
17. Butterfly Conservatory
Enter the climate-controlled rainforest and be surrounded by thousands of butterflies flying through the air as you walk along the path. As you enter, the humidity hits your face, making you feel as if you’ve entered a rainforest. Created to mimic the natural habitat of butterflies, this beautiful environment has waterfalls, pools, and lush vegetation.
There is also an educational element, as you learn about the life cycle of butterflies and can study their behavior. The Butterfly Conservator is included in Niagara Pass, and it really is a must-visit destination. The conservatory is wheelchair accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages.
18. Fallsview Casino Resort
Fallsview Casino Resort has become a huge draw to Niagara Falls. There are two casinos in Niagara: Casino Niagara near Clifton Hill and the more extravagant Fallsview Casino entertainment complex.
We’re not big on gambling, but the Fallsview Casino Resort is an excellent place to visit. Besides the casino, it has a world-class music venue that draws some of the top artists in the business. Billy Joel played Fallsview just last week! Fallsviews isn’t just a casino; it’s a resort complete with international music acts and 5-star dining. There’s shopping, five different restaurants, and two nightclubs.
19. Niagara’s Fury
While you are at Journey Behind the Falls, pop in to see the 4D movie that is included with your Adventure Pass. Niagara Fury is a lot of fun for the whole family, especially the kids. This immersive 360-degree cinema recreates the history of the falls complete with wind, mist, and vibrations make you feel as if you are right beside the mighty waterfall.
Ponchos are handed out beforehand and if you want to get wet, stand at the very front. It is located at the Table Rock Welcome Center, and you can grab a bite to eat here.
20. Botanical Gardens
Dave and I have visited Niagara Falls countless times and it wasn’t until two years ago that we finally stopped at the Botanical Gardens. It’s a quiet retreat and it is the perfect spot to capture some Instagram photographs.
It’s funny that we’d never walked through the gardens because the Butterfly Conservatory is located in the same spot. But in the past, we skipped the gardens and went straight to the butterflies. But it is worth walking through the Botanical Gardens as it is beautiful and is a quiet retreat from the chaos of the other attractions. The Butterfly Conservatory is included in the Niagara Adventure Pass.
21. Floral Clock
I never cared for the Floral Clock as a kid, but each time we return to Niagara, we always take a quick trip to the clock. It is a must-see attraction when you visit Niagara Falls simply because it’s been around for so long. The WEGO bus stops here, so you don’t even need to make a special trip.
It is powered by Ontario Hydro, which is fitting since these mighty waterfalls power much of the Eastern Seaboard. It is also the largest floral clock in the world.
22. Niagara on the Lake
The only reason Niagara on the Lake is located so far down is because it is a bit off the beaten path and is its own destination in its own right. Located on Lake Ontario at the mouth of the Niagara River, this is one of the top tourist destinations in Ontario.
The Shaw Festival attracts theatre lovers, and if you love browsing shops and local artisans at work, this is the place for you. If you are feeling romantic, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the historic sites of Niagara on the Lake. We have a full article dedicated to this town at 15 Amazing Things to do in Niagara on the Lake – Canada
23. Tour the Niagara Wine Route
After all that excitement from the more adventurous attractions, hop on the Niagara wine route in the glorious Niagara wine region. Only 15 minutes from downtown Niagara there are award-winning wineries spanning from the Niagara Escarpment and along Lake Ontario just waiting to be explored.
If you decide to stay in Niagara on the Lake, you can rent a bicycle and go on your own or join a bicycle tour. There are limo tours, funky bus tours, horse tours, and more to drink wine without having to drive. Popular Niagara Wineries include Peller Estates, Trius, Inniskillin, Two Sisters, Wayne Gretzky, and Vineland Estates.
24. Fort George National Historic Site
The Fort George National Historic Site is located just outside of Niagara on the Lake. During the War of 1812, it was a strategic fort protecting the then-British Colony from the United States. Visit the fort to see re-enactments of The Red Coats firing their muskets and experience life two centuries ago.
It is a must-visit for history buffs to see this outpost, which was the site of the Battle of Fort George in 1813. There are several exhibits with actors dressed in historic clothing putting on musket demonstrations, military reenactments, and learning about what life was like during the War of 1812.
25. Water Parks
Niagara Falls has two water parks. The Skylon Hotel & Waterpark is located at Clifton Hill, but if you really want to spend some time at a Water Park, Great Wolf Lodge in our choice. I’ll never forget spending a few days while working at YTV and having a blast in its 100,000-square-foot indoor water park, complete with wave pools, water slides, and a lazy river. Check prices here.
Staying at the hotel is a fun getaway for the family. While we wouldn’t do this anymore, I know that our neighbors love booking a stay at Great Wolf Lodge with the kids.
Where to Stay in Niagara Falls
We have a complete guide to the best places to stay in Niagara Falls here. But if you are looking for some suggestions right now, we recommend the Fallsview Casino area for the best views of the falls from your hotel room and dining. Read our complete guide: Where to Stay in Niagara Falls
Our favorite place is Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel and Spa. We just stayed there last week and had a magnificent room with a view of Horseshoe Falls, and enjoyed its Scandinavian style Spa experience. Marriott on the Falls across the street is great too with views of Horseshoe Falls.
If you want to stay close to Clifton Hill, we like the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel it has great views of the Niagara River American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Getting Around Niagara Falls
When you visit Niagara Falls, traveling by car is ideal, but if you are visiting from out of the country or taking a side trip from Toronto, you don’t need a car. If you buy an attraction pass, it gives you access to the WEGO Bus that visits the major attractions.
Bicycle rentals are available and are an excellent way to see the area. Dave and I once rode bikes all the way to Niagara on the Lake from downtown Niagara to tour some wineries. You can also book tours out to Niagara from Toronto.
There are plenty of parking lots around Niagara Falls, and hotels have parking, including valet.
Getting to Niagara Falls
Buses operate from downtown Toronto and Buffalo, New York. We normally drive to Niagara Falls since we live an hour away, but we have taken the bus from Toronto by booking through Busbud, and it was quick and easy. The only downfall is that it is about a 30-minute walk from the bus terminal to the attractions.
Trains travel from New York City to Toronto and Cleveland. Once you get to Niagara Falls, it is easy to get around, as most attractions are within walking distance. Alternatively, you can hop on the WeGo People mover to get to the attractions outside the city center.
You can drive to Niagara Falls from the United States by crossing the Rainbow Bridge. Pedestrians can also walk across Rainbow Bridge to visit either side of the border. Read: How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls – Bus, Train, Transit, And Car
Tours can easily be booked to Niagara on the Lake and on the Wine Trail, where they will pick you up from your hotel.
How much time do you need for Niagara Falls?
Two days is a good amount of time in Niagara Falls to see most of its attractions. Read our complete guide: 48 Hours in Niagara Falls Canada
How long does Journey Behind the Falls take?
The Journey Behind the Falls takes about an hour. You will be standing in line for the elevator and looking out the portals and enjoying the view from the outside viewing platform directly beside the falls. So plan on an hour.
Is one day enough for Niagara Falls?
One day in Niagara Falls is enough to see the falls and enjoy a few of its top attractions, such as Journey Behind the Falls, Hornblower, White Water Walk, and some of Clifton Hill. Read our complete guide: The Perfect One Day in Niagara Falls Itinerary
What is the best time of day to see Niagara Falls?
The best time of day to see Niagara Falls is early in the morning. Crowds are less, and the light is beautiful. Niagara Falls is also beautiful at night as the falls are lit up with colors during the illumination of the falls and nightly fireworks during the summer months.
Is 2 hours enough for Niagara Falls?
2 hours is not enough time to see Niagara Falls unless all you want to do is take a look at it. If that is the case, you can see Niagara Falls in two hours.
Can you see Niagara Falls without paying?
Yes, you can see Niagara Falls without paying. The promenade is free to walk and offers beautiful views of the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. You can even go right up to the top of Niagara Falls from the Table Rock Center.
We have visited Niagara Falls countless times and do not need Niagara Falls tourism photos or help to share the best things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada. We have not worked with Niagara Falls tourism, and all opinions are our own.
And these are our best Niagara Falls Travel Tips! Did we miss anything? Have any questions? Leave them in the comments below.