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The Ultimate Guide to Niagara Falls in Canada – What to See & Do
- Jenn & Leon
- May 24, 2023
- 19 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Discover the breathtaking allure of Niagara Falls in Toronto, Canada, right here!
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring power of nature as we unveil the timeless beauty and enchanting wonders of this majestic landmark!
Our time here was truly unforgettable, and here we delve into the history, thrilling attractions, and awe-inspiring experiences that we had and that await you at Niagara Falls.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer grandeur of this natural masterpiece, and let the falls cast their spell on your senses!
Should Niagara Falls lay claim to an official title as a natural wonder of the world? We would love to know what you think!
Read on for all you need to know about this incredible place in our comprehensive guide with our highlights, a bit of history, facts, and valuable tips for making the most of your visit to Niagara Falls. Then you decide!
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Our Niagara Falls Highlights
Niagara Falls is a special place for so many reasons, and for Leon seeing the Falls was a life-long ambition that came to fruition when we set out on the 5 hour drive from our small town in Ontario.
It was the end of August 2019, and Leon was in Canada on his final 'visit'. We say 'final' because the very next time he was in Canada, he did not leave until we left on our full-time travel adventure in April 2021!
Even though Jenn and the kiddos had been to the Falls many times before, we were all super excited to spend a few days there, together as a family.
Our time at Niagara was absolutely amazing! The Falls are nothing short of breathtaking, almost over-stimulating, given their sheer volume and grandeur.
We captured so many wonderful moments, admiring the sensational view from the Ferris wheel and getting up close and personal at the top of the falls.
There is just so much to see and do here, with some great amusements, beautiful parks, gardens, and of course, epic restaurants too. Only the good times roll here in Niagara!
Some of the best memories of our entire relationship will forever be enshrined at Niagara.
We began our time here at the Butterfly Conservatory, having a wonderful time walking amongst such beautiful creatures.
We then took a tour of the surrounding botanical gardens, before going on to enjoy a pretty incredible zip-lining experience to the bottom of the falls, shortly after the evening fireworks show had finished!
Oh, and did we mention karaoke? That totally happened, too! Much more on that later (and maybe some video footage too).
There is just so much to get through here, and we are stoked for you to be reading this, and look forward in advance to you checking out the rest of this post and the amazing things you can do here, like we did.
Before we let you do just that, we have to also take a moment to talk about the Falls at night!
Simply put, we implore you not to miss out, and make sure you do this! After dark, not only are the illumination displays mesmerizing to watch, but the atmosphere is absolutely incredible.
We took the Falls walk to the top, capturing brilliant shots along the way. Standing at the top of the Falls is wonderful by day, but by night, it takes on a whole other level that will rattle all of your senses.
We strongly felt the force of nature directly in front of us here. The sheer scale is just mind-blowing! One of our top EVER destinations. Niagara Falls will forever be in our hearts, and in our minds.
History of Niagara Falls in Canada
The history of Niagara Falls is long and arduous, beginning with a combination of geological processes that occurred over thousands of years.
Let's take a brief look at how nature carved the Earth in such a dramatic way:
⪢ Glaciation
Around 18,000 years ago, during the last Ice Age, the region where Niagara Falls now exists was completely covered by glaciers.
As the glaciers advanced and retreated, they carved out the Niagara River and its gorge, leaving behind a cliff at the present-day location of the falls.
⪢ Glacial Lake Iroquois
After the retreat of the glaciers, a large glacial lake called Lake Iroquois formed in the area.
The lake was held back by an ice dam, which eventually gave way, resulting in a catastrophic release of water.
The sudden release of water led to the erosion of the Niagara River's channel, further deepening the gorge and shaping the falls.
⪢ Erosion & Geological Processes
Over time, the erosive power of the flowing water and the geological forces at play continued to shape the falls.
The water from the Niagara River plunges over the edge of the falls, eroding the softer rock layers beneath the more resistant layers.
This ongoing erosion contributes to the retreat of the falls and the formation of the gorge.
⪢ Geological Strata
The rocks that make up Niagara Falls consist primarily of layers of shale and dolomite, with harder limestone forming the top layer.
The varying resistance of these rock layers to erosion results in the distinct horseshoe shape of the falls.
⪢ Today
Today, the falls continue to erode at a slow rate, with an estimated erosion rate of approximately 1 foot (0.3 meters) per year.
The constant process of erosion and the power of the cascading water contribute to the ongoing formation and evolution of Niagara Falls.
⪢ Human Activity
It's important to note that while the formation of the falls is a result of natural processes, human intervention, such as the construction of hydroelectric power plants, has also influenced the flow of water over the falls and the overall landscape of the area.
So that is how the Falls came to be, enchanting all who came across them over the years.
The area surrounding the Falls subsequently became a magnet of attention, with inhabitants and visitors alike forming a bustling and beautiful city to accompany the lure of its star attraction.
⪢ Indigenous Presence
Long before European settlers arrived, Indigenous peoples inhabited the region surrounding Niagara Falls. The Haudenosaunee, also known as the Iroquois Confederacy or Six Nations, have historical and cultural ties to the Niagara Falls area.
The Six Nations include the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora nations. They have a rich history and continue to play an important role in the region.
The Anishinaabe peoples, including the Ojibwe (also known as Chippewa) and Odawa (Ottawa), also have ancestral connections with a significant presence in the broader Great Lakes, along with the Mississauga, an Anishinaabe First Nation with historical ties to the Niagara Peninsula and surrounding areas.
⪢ European Exploration & Settlement
French explorer Samuel de Champlain was among the first Europeans to witness Niagara Falls in 1604.
Over the following centuries, the British, the French, and Americans established settlements and forts in the area, recognizing the strategic and commercial value of the falls.
⪢ The War of 1812
Niagara Falls played a significant role in the War of 1812 between the United States and Great Britain. Several battles and skirmishes occurred in the vicinity, including the famous Battle of Lundy's Lane. The falls served as a natural boundary between the two nations during the conflict.
⪢ Tourism Development
In the mid-19th century, Niagara Falls began to attract tourists from around the world. The construction of transportation infrastructure, such as the Welland Canal and railways, made the falls more accessible.
Hotels, attractions, and boat tours were developed to accommodate the growing influx of visitors.
⪢ Daredevils & Stunts
Niagara Falls has long been a magnet for daredevils seeking fame and adventure.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, numerous thrill-seekers attempted daring stunts, including going over the falls in barrels or walking tightropes across the rushing waters.
While some survived these daring feats, others tragically lost their lives.
⪢ Conservation Efforts
Recognizing the importance of preserving the natural beauty and power of Niagara Falls, conservation efforts emerged in the early 20th century.
The Niagara Parks Commission, established in 1885, has played a crucial role in safeguarding the falls and surrounding parklands, ensuring their protection for future generations.
⪢ Modern Attractions
Niagara Falls offers a range of attractions and experiences, alongside the Falls themselves.
Visitors can take boat tours, explore tunnels behind the falls, enjoy panoramic views from observation decks, and witness captivating illuminations and fireworks displays.
Over the past two decades, there has been an explosion of restaurants, hotels, bars, arcades, and even indoor glow-in-the-dark mini-golf.
⪢ Hydroelectric Power Generation
Harnessing the immense power of the falls for electricity became a significant focus in the 20th century.
The Niagara Falls hydroelectric plants were constructed, providing an important source of renewable energy for the region. Today, these plants continue to generate substantial hydroelectric power.
Niagara Falls stands as a testament to the enduring power and allure of nature. Its history is woven with tales of exploration, conservation, and the relentless human fascination with its awe-inspiring beauty.
As one of the world's most iconic landmarks, Niagara Falls continues to leave an indelible impression on all who encounter its majestic splendor!
Read on for more information on how to get there, visiting times, and our Niagara Falls rating.
12 Interesting Facts About Niagara Falls
1) Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and attracts a significant number of visitors each year.
While exact visitor numbers vary, it is estimated that between the United States and Canada, Niagara Falls receives over 20 million visitors annually, generating over $2 billion in revenue.
2) The first recorded person to survive going over the falls was school teacher Annie Edson Taylor, who in 1901 successfully completed the stunt inside an oak barrel!
In the following 122 years, thousands of people have been swept over the falls, but only sixteen people have reportedly survived the feat.
3) Three Falls in One: Niagara Falls is actually composed of three separate waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Collectively, they form the largest waterfall in terms of flow rate in North America.
4) Geological Transformation: Over time, the falls have been gradually eroding the rock, resulting in their continuous retreat.
Approximately 1 foot (30 centimeters) of erosion occurs each year, causing the falls to move upstream.
5) Hydroelectric Powerhouse: Niagara Falls is not just a natural wonder; it's also a significant source of hydroelectric power.
Several hydroelectric plants harness the immense power of the falls, making it an essential energy generator for the surrounding region.
6) The Great Ice Bridge: During particularly cold winters in the 19th and early 20th centuries, the massive ice formations on the Niagara River were so extensive that people used to walk across the frozen river, forming an "ice bridge" between the United States and Canada.
7) Daredevil Stunts: Niagara Falls has attracted daredevils from around the world who have attempted various stunts.
Some notable individuals who have braved the falls include Annie Edson Taylor, who became the first person to survive going over the falls in a barrel in 1901, and Nik Wallenda, who walked across a tightrope over the falls in 2012.
8) Illuminated Beauty: Niagara Falls comes alive at night with stunning illuminations. Over 140 LED lights are used to illuminate the falls in vibrant colors, creating a breathtaking spectacle against the night sky.
9) The Maid of the Mist: The Maid of the Mist boat tour has been operating since 1846 and offers visitors a thrilling up-close experience with the falls.
Passengers can witness the sheer power and misty spray as they navigate the turbulent waters near the base of the falls.
10) A Love Locks Tradition: Inspired by other iconic locations, a love locks tradition has emerged at Niagara Falls.
Couples attach padlocks engraved with their names or initials to railings and toss the keys into the falls as a symbol of their everlasting love.
11) Natural Wonder in Film: Niagara Falls has been featured in numerous films, including the classic Marilyn Monroe thriller "Niagara" (1953) and the action-packed "Superman II" (1980).
Its stunning backdrop has provided a captivating setting for many cinematic adventures.
12) Breathtaking Fireworks: Throughout the summer months, Niagara Falls hosts spectacular fireworks displays over the falls.
The vibrant bursts of color against the backdrop of the illuminated falls create a magical atmosphere and offer a truly memorable experience for visitors.
Top Things to Do at Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, and here are some of our suggestions.
We have only visited the Canadian side, so note that all of these things are based on there!
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⪢ Journey Behind the Falls
Take a unique journey down tunnels that lead to observation decks situated directly behind the falls. Experience the thundering power of the cascades from a whole new perspective!
⪢ Take a Boat Tour
The Maid of the Mist is a world-famous boat tour that takes visitors on a thrilling journey to experience the majestic beauty of Niagara Falls up close.
The Maid of the Mist cruise has been operating since 1846 and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in North America.
On this cruise you will be given red ponchos; on the United States side they operate Hornblower Niagara Cruises which give out blue ones.
⪢ Niagara SkyWheel
Enjoy breathtaking views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area from the Niagara SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers panoramic vistas day and night.
⪢ Niagara Falls illumination
Witness the falls come alive with vibrant colors as they are illuminated after dusk. The nightly light display is a captivating sight not to be missed!
Consider taking a night walk to the top of the Falls; it is one of the most powerful things we have ever experienced!
⪢ The White Water Walk
Explore the mighty rapids of the Niagara River up close. Take a stroll along the boardwalk that offers stunning views of the powerful white water currents.
⪢ Niagara Parkway & Dufferin Islands
Take a leisurely drive or walk along the scenic Niagara Parkway, which stretches along the riverbank.
Make a stop at Dufferin Islands, a picturesque park with tranquil walking trails and beautiful gardens.
⪢ Check Out Clifton Hill
Indulge in the lively atmosphere of Clifton Hill, a vibrant entertainment district near the falls. Enjoy amusement rides, arcades, museums, themed restaurants, and a host of other attractions.
⪢ Niagara Falls View Casino Resort
If you're feeling lucky, try your hand at the casino. The Niagara Falls View Casino Resort is popular with tourists and locals alike and offers gaming, entertainment shows, fine dining, and panoramic views of the falls.
⪢ Stroll Through Queen Victoria Park
Visit Queen Victoria Park, located right next to the falls. Enjoy beautifully manicured gardens, picturesque picnic spots, and stunning views of the falls from various vantage points.
⪢ Take a Helicopter Tour
For a truly breathtaking experience, consider taking a helicopter tour over Niagara Falls. Witness the grandeur of the falls from above and capture stunning aerial views.
We didn't do this, but if you do, please let us know! We would love to know what it is like!
⪢ Explore the Wax Museum
The Movieland Wax Museum of the Stars offers visitors an opportunity to encounter lifelike wax figures of famous celebrities and iconic characters.
The museum showcases a collection of over 100 wax figures, featuring renowned actors, musicians, sports personalities, and historical figures.
As you explore the museum, you'll come face-to-face with incredibly detailed and realistic wax replicas of stars from various eras and genres.
From Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Charlie Chaplin to contemporary celebrities like Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, and Lady Gaga, the wax museum provides a chance to get up close and personal with your favorite stars.
⪢ Try the Go Karts
Niagara Speedway is a thrilling go-karting attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy high-speed races and adrenaline-pumping fun.
Located just minutes away from the majestic Falls, the go-kart track provides a thrilling experience for all ages.
The highlight of the Niagara Speedway is its multi-level, elevated track that spans over four acres, making it one of the largest go-kart tracks in North America.
The track features exciting twists, turns, and banked corners, providing an exhilarating and challenging racing experience.
Visitors can hop into their own go-kart and race against friends, family, or other participants.
Whether you're a racing enthusiast or looking for a fun activity with family and friends, the go-karts at Niagara Speedway provide an adrenaline-fueled adventure that adds a thrilling element to your visit to Niagara Falls.
Please note that availability, operating hours, and age/height restrictions may vary, so it's advisable to check the official Niagara Speedway website for the most up-to-date information and to plan your go-karting experience accordingly.
⪢ Visit the Butterfly Conservatory
The Butterfly Conservatory at Niagara Falls, Canada, is a serene and enchanting indoor attraction within the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.
It offers a captivating experience surrounded by thousands of colorful butterflies from around the world.
Inside its climate-controlled conservatory, you will be greeted by lush tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls, and winding pathways that lead to close encounters with these delicate creatures.
It's a tranquil oasis where visitors can observe and appreciate the beauty of butterflies in their natural habitat, while also learning about their life cycle and the importance of conservation.
The Butterfly Conservatory provides a unique and immersive experience for nature lovers, families, and photographers seeking to capture the magical charm of butterflies in a serene setting.
This is also part of the larger site of Niagara Botanical Gardens, a great place to stroll through, too!
⪢ Zip Line Down to the Bottom of the Falls (Highly Recommended)
Zip lining at Niagara Falls offers an exhilarating adventure that allows participants to soar through the air on thrilling zip lines while enjoying breathtaking views of the falls and surrounding landscapes.
Suspended high above the ground, we glided along a series of zip lines, taking in panoramic vistas of the majestic falls, the Niagara River, and the picturesque gorge.
We booked ours at night and actually got to see the fireworks display just before we took off! It was a magnificent moment that we will definitely never forget.
⪢ Have a Go at Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf
The glow-in-the-dark mini golf experience offers a fun and unique twist on traditional mini golf.
Step into a vibrant and glowing world as you navigate through a creatively designed indoor course illuminated by blacklights.
The colorful and luminescent obstacles, themed decorations, and glowing golf balls create a visually stunning environment that adds an extra level of excitement to the game.
Perfect for families, friends, or anyone seeking a memorable and entertaining activity, glow-in-the-dark mini golf at Niagara Falls promises a delightful and immersive experience that combines skill, laughter, and a touch of magic in a mesmerizing setting.
⪢ Bowling, Theatres & Arcades
Whether you're looking for active fun, gaming excitement, or cultural experiences, Niagara Falls offers a diverse range of entertainment venues to ensure a memorable and enjoyable time for visitors of all ages.
We had a fantastic time bowling, trying our hand at the arcades, and even checking out the incredible 4D theatre that half-frightened us!
⪢ Karaoke
There have been many things that we have done together that neither of us could have ever even imagined!
Such as singing karaoke for our first time in Niagara Falls on the jumbo screen and speakers over the main strip!
This song by James Blunt, Bonfire Heart, is one of our favs... and how fitting that Jenn's birthday happens to fall on the UKs Bonfire Night (Nov 5th).
Find a love that frees and sets your heart on fire! Jenn and Leon coming to a karaoke bar near you... don’t forget to bring your ear plugs!!
Ticket Prices, Opening Times & Best Time to Visit
⪢ Ticket Prices
Viewing the falls is free, but many of Niagara’s most popular attractions and experiences have entry fees (see below).
⪢ Niagara Parks Attractions
● Journey Behind the Falls: CAD 24 (Adult)
● Niagara City Cruises (Boat Ride): CAD 32–CAD 38 (Adult, depending on season)
● Niagara’s Fury 4D Experience: CAD 19 (Adult)
● Butterfly Conservatory: CAD 19.50 (Adult)
● Niagara Parks Power Station + Tunnel: CAD 28 (Adult)
Niagara Parks Passes bundle multiple attractions:
● Adventure Pass: From CAD 59 (includes 4 top attractions + WEGO transport)
Tickets can be purchased on-site, but booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially in peak season.
Prices are correct at the time of writing (May 2025). Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
All prices are in Canadian Dollars. Convert your currency here.
⪢ Opening Times
Most attractions operate year-round, though hours vary by season:
● Niagara Falls (viewing areas): Open 24/7
● Journey Behind the Falls: Daily, ~9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (longer in summer)
● Niagara City Cruises: Mid-April to late November (weather permitting)
● WEGO Shuttle Bus: Daily, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (longer in summer)
Always check niagaraparks.com for seasonal updates.
⪢ Best Time to Visit
● Best Months: May to October – warm weather, boat tours running, and full park access
● Avoid: Mid-July to early August, when crowds and prices peak
● Winter Bonus: December–February offers light festivals, fewer tourists, and frozen-falls photo ops, though some attractions are closed
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning (before 10 AM) for fewer crowds and clear views
● Evening (after 8 PM) for the nightly Falls Illumination and fireworks
How to Get to Niagara Falls, Canada
Niagara Falls is one of Canada’s most accessible natural wonders, located in Ontario, right on the border with the United States.
Whether you're coming from Toronto, New York, or beyond, getting to Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is easy by car, bus, train, or tour.
By Car (From Toronto or Nearby Cities)
Driving from Toronto is the fastest and most flexible way to reach Niagara Falls:
● From Toronto: 1.5 hours (130 km) via the QEW (Queen Elizabeth Way)
● From Niagara-on-the-Lake: 25 minutes
● From Buffalo, NY: 45 minutes via Rainbow Bridge
There’s ample paid parking near the falls, especially along Fallsview Boulevard and near Clifton Hill. Consider using a hotel lot or day-rate lot for convenience.
By Train
By Bus
By Tour or Shuttle
⪢ Easily Find Hotels in Niagara and Beyond
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Niagara Falls hotel deals below to find great rates for an overnight stay.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls
Before you set out, it's a good idea to be aware of some important things to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are a few things to consider before visiting Niagara Falls:
⪢ Entry Requirements
Depending on your nationality, you may need a valid passport and, in some cases, a visa to enter the United States if you plan to view the falls from that side.
Check the visa requirements and ensure your travel documents are up to date before your visit.
⪢ Niagara Falls Viewing Areas
Niagara Falls can be viewed from both the Canadian and American sides. The Canadian side is known for its panoramic views of the falls, while the American side offers closer proximity to the falls and different vantage points.
Plan your visit accordingly, considering the viewpoints and attractions you wish to explore.
⪢ Currency & Payments
The currency used in Canada is the Canadian Dollar (CAD), while the currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD).
Be prepared to have the appropriate currency for your transactions, should you prefer to use cash. Most establishments accept credit / debit cards in any case.
⪢ Tourist Passes & Packages
Explore the available tourist passes and packages that offer discounted admission to multiple attractions and activities.
These can help save money and provide a convenient way to experience different aspects of Niagara Falls.
⪢ Safety Precaution
Follow all safety guidelines and signage provided at the falls and attractions.
Stay within designated areas, respect barriers, and be cautious of wet and slippery surfaces. Keep an eye on children and be mindful of your surroundings.
⪢ Local Etiquette & Respect
Be respectful of the natural environment and the cultural heritage of the region. Follow local rules, dispose of waste properly, and treat fellow visitors and locals with kindness and courtesy.
⪢ Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing
To ensure peace of mind while traveling or living abroad, we recommend getting health insurance.
SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies with options for adventure sports and electronics theft.
Their Complete Plan offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits.
Our Niagara Falls
Experience Rating
Niagara Falls is more than just a natural wonder—it's a place where the sheer power and beauty of nature converge to create an unforgettable experience.
Whether you're captivated by the thundering waterfalls, intrigued by the history and legends, or seeking adventure in the surrounding attractions, Niagara Falls in Canada offers a journey of a lifetime.
Embrace the magic, immerse yourself in the splendor, and let the timeless allure of Niagara Falls leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul! It certainly did on ours!
As ever thank you for reading, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. All feedback on the post is welcome too!
FAQ: Niagara Falls (Canada Side) – Everything You Need to Know
Where is Niagara Falls located?
Niagara Falls is in Ontario, Canada, along the U.S.–Canada border.
It’s about 1.5 hours from Toronto by car and directly across from Niagara Falls, New York.
How many waterfalls make up Niagara Falls?
What is the best way to view the falls?
Do I need tickets to see the falls?
When is the best time to visit Niagara Falls?
Can you go on a boat tour near the falls?
Are there any night-time experiences?
Is Niagara Falls suitable for families?
What should I bring for a visit?
Is Niagara Falls worth visiting from Toronto?
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