Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful and iconic natural wonders in the world. It’s a popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the globe, offering plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation.
Whether you’re looking for an adventurous getaway or a romantic escape, Niagara Falls has something for everyone. From boat tours to zip lines to wine tasting, there’s something fun and memorable to do around every corner.
To help you make the most out of your trip, we’ve put together this list of the top 10 things to do in Niagara Falls. Read on to find out what activities you should add to your itinerary!
1. Take A Boat Ride On The Maid of the Mist
Experience the thunderous roar of the mighty Niagara Falls up close and personal with a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist. This boat tour has been operating since 1846 and is an iconic experience that you won’t soon forget.
After taking off from the docks, you’ll be able to get up close to the base of both American and Horseshoe Falls. You’ll also be provided with a raincoat to protect yourself from getting soaked!
The Maid of the Mist is open year-round and offers a unique way to take in one of nature’s greatest wonders.
2. Visit the Journey Behind The Falls
The Journey Behind the Falls is a must-see attraction when visiting Niagara Falls. It’s an adventure that allows you to get up close and personal with one of the world’s most impressive sights.
You’ll be able to walk through tunnels behind the falls and experience the thunderous roar of the mighty Horseshoe Falls.
You can also take an elevator 125 feet down into the bedrock, then stand directly behind the cascade of water as it thunders from 13 stories above. This unforgettable experience is sure to make your trip memorable!
3. Explore Cave of The Winds
Explore the Cave of the Winds, and get ready to get wet. This attraction is located in Niagara Falls State Park, and it is one of the most visited attractions near the falls.
The cave brings you as close to the base of Niagara Falls as you can get without actually going over it.
The tour starts with a trip on an elevator down into the gorge. Once you arrive at the bottom, you’ll be outfitted with a souvenir poncho and sandals before your journey through the cave begins.
As you explore, staff members will explain how Niagara Falls was formed millions of years ago and how it still affects the landscape today. Be sure to keep an eye out for rainbow-colored mists created by the thundering power of the falls!
4. Hike at Niagara Gorge Trail
The Niagara Gorge Trail is a great way to explore the beauty of the area. Located in Niagara Falls State Park, it’s a 4-mile (6.4 km) roundtrip hike that offers stunning views of the American and Canadian Falls and allows you to immerse yourself in nature.
The trail starts at Prospect Point in the park and follows Terrapin Point before going up Whirlpool Rapids on the Canadian side. Along your journey, you’ll pass through lush green forests, cross bridges, and explore caves.
The hike can take about 2-3 hours, depending on how long you take to enjoy the sights along the way. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water with you as it can get quite hot during summer days!
5. Watch a Fireworks Show At The Falls
Niagara Falls is known for its beautiful and majestic views of cascading waterfalls. But the beauty of Niagara doesn’t stop here. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy a spectacular fireworks show every Friday night at 10 pm.
The show, which lasts five minutes, is best seen from the Canadian side of the falls and provides an unforgettable experience.
With vibrant colors illuminating the night sky and reflecting off the water, it’s no wonder why this is one of the most popular tourist activities in Niagara Falls. Make sure to bring a camera and capture this incredible moment!
6. Go For An Adventure On Whirlpool Jetboat Rides
Niagara Falls is the perfect place for some adventure and thrilling fun. The Whirlpool Jetboat Rides is one of the most popular and memorable things to do in Niagara Falls.
Experience a thrilling ride on the Niagara River, passing through class 5 rapids upstream of the Great Gorge. You’ll be provided with a life vest and waterproof clothing, which adds to the thrill of this experience.
Soaring past the American and Canadian Horseshoe falls, you’ll get an up-close look at these iconic natural wonders. To top it all off, you’ll even have time for a bit of sightseeing before heading back!
7. Have a Picnic By The Falls
A picnic by Niagara Falls is an excellent way to admire the beauty and grandeur of this natural wonder. Pack a basket full of your favorite snacks and drinks, then head out to the falls.
Find a spot with a great view and relax while you enjoy a meal with a view. You can also bring along some blankets or chairs to make your picnic more comfortable. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and create lasting memories!
8. Get Up Close To Nature At Whirlpool State Park
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful stroll through Whirlpool State Park, which is just minutes away from Niagara Falls.
This park is full of lush greenery, native wildlife, and plenty of outdoor activities. Take a leisurely walk along its trails as you take in the beauty of nature.
The park also offers access to the gorge’s whirlpool rapids, giving you an up-close view of the area’s natural wonders. You can also go fishing or canoeing in the nearby river if you want to make your visit extra special.
9. Enjoy Local Cuisine At Niagara Falls Restaurants
Niagara Falls is renowned for its delicious restaurants and local cuisine. If you’re looking to experience the best of Niagara Falls, then dining at one of the local restaurants is a must.
Some popular restaurants in Niagara Falls include The Keg Steakhouse & Bar, Prime Steakhouse Niagara Falls, and Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
Here, you can enjoy some of the region’s best steaks as well as other local dishes like poutine and smoked salmon chowder. With scenic riverside views, great service, and delectable food, these restaurants are sure to make your visit to Niagara Falls memorable.
10. Visit Old Fort Niagara
Old Fort Niagara is a great place to visit for those who are interested in history. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Old Fort Niagara was first built by the French in 1726 and later taken over by the British in 1759.
The fort has since been restored to its original condition, and you can take guided tours of the fort and learn about its rich history.
You can also explore the museum located inside the fort, which features exhibits detailing what life was like during the era when it was occupied by both French and British forces.
There are also plenty of activities to do around the fort, such as visiting the nearby state park or taking a boat ride across Lake Ontario. Old Fort Niagara is a must-see for those looking to learn more about this important part of American History.
Final Words
A visit to Niagara Falls can be a truly magical experience. With its cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and wildlife, it’s no wonder why people from all over the world flock to this majestic destination.
To make the most of your time there, take advantage of the many fun and memorable activities that are available. From exploring nearby towns to enjoying outdoor adventures like kayaking or hiking, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
And when you’re done, you can take home some incredible memories that will last a lifetime!
Key Takeaways
– Visit Niagara Falls to make unforgettable memories with thrilling activities, breathtaking views, and local delicacies.
– Enjoy a range of outdoor experiences like boat rides, hiking trails, and firework shows.
– Get up close to nature by exploring Cave of the Winds, Whirlpool State Park, and the iconic Maid of the Mist boat ride.