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The Canadian side of Niagara Falls is the one you should visit if you’re looking for the best views of the most famous fall in North America. Besides, there is a wide range of attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada, so you can never get bored.
Keep in mind that U.S. citizens will need a valid passport if they want to see the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. However, it’s 100% worth it, and you will be just 80 miles away from Toronto.
We visited from Philadelphia, where we live, and the drive was absolutely worth it. We also stopped by the New York side of Niagara Falls, so I recommend checking out our guide if you’re going to visit that side, too. Or you can also check out our ultimate guide to visiting Niagara Falls to plan your trip to both sides.
Before the fireworks, we drove to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls and stayed there. The next day, we took this all-inclusive tour, which includes the Voyage to the Falls cruise, the Journey Behind the Falls, Lunch at Skylon Tower, and a helicopter ride. Basically, it includes all the best things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada, as you will see below.
1. Voyage to the Falls by Hornblower, the best Niagara Falls boat tour from Canada
Without a doubt, a Hornblower cruise is one of the top attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada. The Voyage to the Falls boat tour brings you as close to the falls as possible for the most memorable experience in Niagara Falls.
The double-decker Hornblower cruise boats embark every day, rain or shine. Each ship can hold about 700 passengers, and tours depart every 15-30 minutes. It’s only a 20-minute tour, but once you do it, you’ll understand why it’s the official cruise for sightseeing in Niagara Falls, Canada.
1. Voyage to the Falls by Hornblower, the best Niagara Falls boat tour from Canada
The general admission also includes a ride on the Hornblower Niagara Funicular, the newest addition to Niagara Falls, Ontario. This cable car will transport you to the cruise boarding area, traveling 185 feet along the cliff face of the Niagara Gorge.
From there, grab your complimentary poncho, climb aboard, and get ready to get wet! Simultaneously awe-inspiring and overwhelming, this cruise is the most fun thing to do at Niagara Falls, Canada.
We took this cruise using this combo ticket that also includes lunch at the Skylon Tower, the Journey Behind the Falls, and a helicopter tour of the falls.
2. Journey Behind the Falls, the best thing to do in Niagara Falls in Canada
This is the attraction to book for a one-of-a-kind perspective of the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. The Journey Behind the Falls was formerly called the Scenic Tunnels because that’s what they are! It’s a wonderful opportunity to walk as close to the falls as possible, all while traversing 130-year-old underground tunnels.
2. Journey Behind the Falls, the best thing to do in Niagara Falls in Canada
The entrance to this famous Canadian Niagara Falls attraction is at the Table Rock Centre, which you’ll find at the edge of the Horseshoe Falls. From there, you’ll take the elevator down 125 feet to the underground tunnels, where you will find several portals that were cut out of the rock, granting you views of the falls from different elevations.
As you journey closer and get to the bottom deck, you’ll hear the thunderous force of 740,000 gallons of water cascading down at 40 miles per hour. Get ready to get wet because this is one of the most fun things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario and it’s also open during winter!
This tour is quite affordable, so everyone visiting Niagara Falls, Ontario should take it. It’s also included in the combo tour we took.
3. Have lunch at Skylon Tower, one of the most fun things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada
I mentioned the Skylon Tower a bit, and it’s one of the top places of interest in Niagara Falls, Canada you should check out. This 520-foot structure provides sweeping views of the Horseshoe Falls in Ontario and the American Falls in New York. On a clear day, you can even see about 80 miles into the distance towards the skylines of Buffalo, NY and Toronto, Canada.
3. Have lunch at Skylon Tower, fun things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada
To get the best view of Niagara Falls, Canada, take the famous “yellow bug”, a glass-paned elevator that ascends to the top in less than a minute. There, you can find two restaurants: The Revolving Dining Room and the Summit Suite Buffet, where we had lunch during our combo tour that also included a Hornblower cruise, the Journey Behind the Falls attraction, and a heli-tour.
If you just want to enjoy the 360° views, you can get your ticket here. But whatever you decide to do, the tower is a must-see if you want to experience Niagara Falls from the Canadian side.
4. Niagara Falls Helicopter Tour from the Canadian side
It can be hard to choose what to do on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls first, so let me help. Start your trip with the most memorable journey of a lifetime and take a helicopter ride over the falls.
That is what we did during the full-day tour we took, and I can’t recommend it enough. The ride lasts about 12 minutes, during which you’ll get a birds-eye view of the Niagara Gorge and all the must-see Niagara Falls, Canada attractions. The tour includes audio commentary from a guide, who will point out spots like Queen Victoria Park, the Rainbow Bridge, and the Whirlpool aero car.
4. Niagara Falls Helicopter Tour from the Canadian side
As you begin the flight back to the heliport, savor the panoramic views of the Horseshoe and American Falls with the Toronto skyline and Lake Erie in the distance. This unforgettable experience is the most thrilling thing to do in Niagara, Canada, and will be the highlight of your trip.
If you’re not interested in all the things that the combo ticket includes, you can also book your standalone helicopter ride here.
5. Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory
I highly recommend visiting the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Conservatory. This beautiful attraction is just a 10-minute drive from the falls, along the Niagara Parkway and Great Gorge.
The Botanical Gardens feature nearly 100 acres of landscaped lawns and flower beds. Some of the highlights include azaleas, rhododendrons, perennials, and wildflowers. Also, check out the veggie and herb garden and the symmetrical parterre gardens. The crown jewel of the park is the famous rose garden, which has over 2,400 rosebuds.
5. Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory
Admission is free, although the Butterfly Conservatory next door requires an entrance ticket, which you can purchase in advance. A visit to this conservatory is a great thing to do in Niagara Falls, Canada with kids, although adults will love it, too. Here, you’ll find 45 different species of butterflies as well as a rainforest environment with a pond and mini waterfall.
Enjoy a self-guided walk among 2,000 free-flying butterflies in spectacular colors. They create quite a sight against the tropical blossoms and lush greenery. Don’t forget to stop by the Emergence Window, where you might see a butterfly emerge from its chrysalis!
The garden and the conservatory are the best places to visit around Niagara Falls, Canada, so be sure to save time for them! Besides, both are open year-round from dawn to dusk.
6. Zipline to the Falls, the best things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario
For an exciting adventure, you must try the Zipline to the Falls, one of the top 10 things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for young and old alike. Even if you’re nervous, just do it because you won’t regret it!
Imagine gliding hands-free 220 feet high through the air as the falls roar all around you. It’s the best way to see Niagara Falls from Canada’s side of the Gorge!
6. Zipline to the Falls, the best things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario
Once you get all your safety gear, you can snap some great photos from the observation deck before strapping in for the ride of your life.
Then, soar across the Gorge, past the American Falls to the base of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. The 2,200-foot zipline has an automatic braking system, so your descent slows to a smooth stop. If you want, a ‘Zipline Express’ vehicle can take you back to the launch deck for round two.
I fondly remember this as one of the most exhilarating activities at Niagara Falls, Ontario, and it comes at a good price. I bet you’ll be coming back for another ride!
7. White Water Walk, one of the unique things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada
If heights are out of the question for you, don’t worry, because there are more tranquil attractions at Niagara Falls, Canada. You can’t go wrong with a visit to the White Water Walk along the Niagara Rapids.
About a 10-minute drive from the Horseshoe Falls and within walking distance of public transportation, this riverside boardwalk is a great way to get an up-close view of the rapids after descending 230 feet to the base of the Niagara Gorge.
7. White Water Walk, one of the unique things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada
You’ll immediately hear the thunderous roar of the rapids as you walk through the exit tunnel and onto the boardwalk. From there, go at your own pace along the quarter-mile path, stopping at the viewing platforms along the way. These decks jut out to the very edge of the class 6 whitewater rapids, which can reach speeds up to 30 mph.
There are lots of photo opportunities along the way, and most people spend about an hour here. Boasting beautiful views and trillions of gallons of water, this is one of the best places to visit around Niagara Falls, Ontario.
The White Water Walk is open from April to November, weather permitting. It’s close to other attractions near Niagara Falls, Canada, like the Whirlpool Rapids Bridge, another cool viewpoint over the Gorge.
8. Whirlpool aero car, the best thing to do in Niagara Falls, Canada with kids
One of the best views of Niagara Falls, Canada is from the Whirlpool Aero Car, which travels across the Niagara Gorge. Gliding above the rapids in an antique cable car is a bit frightening, but it’s also an exhilarating experience that you’ll remember.
The aero car has been operating for over 100 years and was designed by a Spanish engineer, so many know it as the Spanish aero car. Of course, there have been several construction updates over the years, but traveling in that 35-passenger red cable car above the white-water rapids is still one of the most unique things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada.
8. Whirlpool Aero Car, the best thing to do in Niagara Falls, Canada with kids
It takes about 10 minutes to complete a round-trip along the 1,700-foot cables, and while there aren’t any anchor points in the United States, the car crosses the Canada-U.S. border several times.
At its lowest point, the cable car is 200 feet above the river, granting you magnificent views of the rushing class 6 rapids and swirling whirlpool. The waters of the Niagara River flow at about 30 mph, but the river quickly changes directions, causing the famous whirlpool. Being able to view this natural phenomenon from above is an opportunity you don’t want to miss!
9. Whirlpool Jet Boat tour, one of the top-rated tourist attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada
One of the top tourist attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada that you’re sure to hear about is the Whirlpool Jet Boat tour. This ride is a completely immersive experience in more ways than one!
There’s no doubt that this is one of the most exciting activities at Niagara Falls, Canada, and it’s so good that most visitors repeat it.
When you book your spot, you can choose the stay-dry option or the wet jet ride. Both tours last 45 minutes and follow the same route along the Niagara River. If you do the Wet Jet ride, you’ll get soaked from head to toe, so come prepared with a towel and a change of clothes.
9. Whirlpool Jet Boat tour, one of the top-rated tourist attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada
The Jet Dome ride is a drier experience, but not necessarily a tamer one. Sure, the domed boat will keep the waves and spray out of your eyes, but you’ll still get an exciting ride along the rapids.
Best of all, the tour guides are friendly, energetic, and informative, so you’ll learn about the geological history of the area while having a blast. The boat captains will skillfully maneuver around the rapids while keeping you entertained.
This isn’t the cheapest thing to do at the falls, but it’s by far the most impressive experience. If you’re going to see Niagara Falls in Canada, you have to do this jet boat tour!
10. Queen Victoria Park, the most popular park in Niagara Falls, Canada
Queen Victoria Park is the best place to take a break while you’re visiting Niagara Falls, Canada. Considered the heart of Niagara Parks, this area is a beautiful refuge of greenery and seasonal flowers. While you’re relaxing at the park, you’ll have views of the Niagara Gorge and the American Falls directly in front and Horseshoe Falls in the distance.
The park’s proximity to the falls makes it a hotspot for visitors who want to rest their legs. No matter the time of year, there is always a seasonal display to marvel at. If you visit during the winter, be sure to check out the Festival of Lights, a pretty nighttime holiday display. Or hang out at the park during the evening to get a unique view of the colorful illumination over the falls.
10. Queen Victoria Park, the most popular park in Niagara Falls, Canada
While sightseeing in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Queen Victoria Park is a must-see. In addition to the sprawling perennials and wildflowers, there is the King George VI statue, a rock garden, and the hybrid tea rose garden.
The great thing about Queen Victoria Park is that it’s open daily, so you can always come here to get some quiet time amidst the busier activities. Plus, the juxtaposition of delicate tulips, chrysanthemums, and fuchsias against the backdrop of the falls makes this a lovely attraction in Niagara Falls, Canada.
11. Niagara Falls Fireworks, one of the best free things to do in Niagara Falls in Canada
The Niagara Falls Fireworks show is a summertime tradition and a top Niagara Falls attraction in Canada. This spectacular light display over the falls is a sight you won’t want to miss. Every summer evening, the sun sets, and a crowd gathers in Queen Victoria Park for the show.
You can also see the fireworks from the viewing area by the Fallsview Moraine, or other Niagara attractions like the Skylon Tower or Skywheel. Queen Victoria Park is a popular spot because it has benches and grassy areas where you can sit comfortably.
11. Niagara Falls Fireworks, one of the best free things to do in Niagara Falls in Canada
While the fireworks are a daily event in the summer, the display also takes place during Niagara’s Winter Festival of Lights and some national holidays. The wintertime light display extends to Queen Victoria Park and is the best activity to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario in the off-season.
If, for some reason, you can’t visit during the summer, you can still see the beautiful Lights on Niagara display, which occurs every night and bathes the falls in multi-colored lights.
This nighttime cruise with dinner makes it extra special, and is a fun thing to do in Niagara Falls Canada with kids. Enjoy a Hornblower Voyage to the Falls cruise, dinner at Table Rock Restaurant overlooking the Horseshoe Falls, and a visit to the Illumination Tower, where you can take over the control panel for the light show.
12. Take a Niagara on the Lake Wine Tour, the best thing to do near Niagara Falls, Canada
The crown jewel of Ontario is Niagara Falls, but other nearby attractions are well worth visiting. If you’ve got the time, take a Niagara-on-the-Lake wine tour.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is just a short drive from the falls, located right where the Niagara River and Lake Ontario meet. The town has historical significance, as it’s home to several battle sites from the War of 1812, most notably, Fort George. It also has beautiful colonial-style homes, an outlet mall, and one of the oldest golf courses in the country.
12. Take a Niagara on the Lake Wine Tour, the best thing to do near Niagara Falls, Canada
Yet, what Niagara-on-the-Lake is most known for is its famous wine region. This half-day tour of the area’s wineries is one of the best activities near Niagara Falls, Canada, for couples or friends. There are different wineries you can visit depending on your taste.
Chateau des Charmes is run by a fifth-generation French winegrower, while Inniskillin Winery serves award-winning table wines. Pillitteri Estates is another winery that does daily tours. In addition to lovely red and white wines, they also offer sweet ice wines. Ravine Vineyards features a scenic farmhouse atmosphere and wine made from organic grapes.
Other popular wineries along the trail include Creekside Estates, Cave Spring Winery, and Kacaba Vineyards.
13. Niagara Skywheel, the best place to see the Niagara Falls from Canada
For some family-friendly sightseeing in Niagara Falls, Canada, take a ride on the Niagara Skywheel. This mighty Ferris wheel is at the center of Clifton Hill, which I’ll talk about in the next section. It’s a must-do if you’re looking for some entertainment and excitement away from the falls.
A visit to Niagara Falls isn’t complete without a ride on the 175-foot Skywheel, the largest observation wheel in Canada. The attraction grants you awesome photo opportunities, as you’ll get a unique aerial perspective of the Horseshoe and American Falls in the distance. You’ll also get sweeping views of Clifton Hill, the Niagara River, and New York.
13. Niagara Skywheel, the best place to see the Niagara Falls from Canada
The ride lasts 10-12 minutes, and each cabin is climate-controlled, so you’ll stay warm and toasty in the winter and cool in the summer. It’s open daily from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. and is one of the top things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada at night.
There’s never a bad time to go for a spin on the Skywheel, as you’ll get stunning views of the icy falls in the winter, and it’s a more private observation area during peak season. It’s also a prime viewing spot for the Niagara Falls Fireworks. For sure, taking in the panoramic views with your sweetie is a romantic thing to do in Niagara Falls, Canada, so don’t miss out! You can book your ticket here.
14. Clifton Hill Attractions, the most popular place to go in Niagara Falls, Canada with kids
The Skywheel is just one of the attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada that you’ll find in Clifton Hill. This tourist district is just minutes from the falls and offers lots of light-hearted fun for the young and the young-at-heart.
There is a wide range of activities at Clifton Hill, including mini-golf courses, haunted houses, and arcades. Niagara Speedway is one of the most popular activities and a fun thing to do as a family. The roller coaster-inspired track spans 2,000 feet and is a blast to drive around in a go-kart. Other family-centric attractions include a variety of funhouses and a bowling alley.
14. Clifton Hill Attractions, place to go in Niagara Falls, Canada with kids
Another interesting thing to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario with kids is to visit the Movieland Wax Museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. You’ll have fun posing with wax replicas of your favorite celebrities, and Ripley’s is filled with over 500 odd specimens and artifacts that’ll leave you bewildered.
When you get hungry, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Clifton Hill has dozens of big chain restaurants and casual eateries, so you’ll find something to suit every taste.
Clifton Hill is a high-energy place and a fun thing to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario after visiting the falls. If you plan on spending a few hours here, get the combo ticket and save money on multiple attractions.
15. Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, the quietest place in the Canadian side of Niagara Falls
While there are lots of touristy things to do on Niagara Falls’ Canadian side, you might also want a break from the crowds and noise. To get some peace, I recommend a visit to Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, one of the quietest nearby places.
This serene area is about 3.5 miles from the falls. Its convenient location is nestled between the Whirlpool River Park and the Niagara Botanical Gardens, which I mentioned earlier.
15. Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, the quietest place in the Canadian side of Niagara Falls
If you want, stop by the Niagara Glen Nature Center for hiking information, maps, and refreshments. The staff there can help you find nearby attractions or plan an itinerary if you’re not sure what to do in Niagara Falls, Canada. Guided tours leave the center daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., but registration is required.
You can also hike on your own. The most popular trails are the Whirlpool Trail, which is just over a mile, but also the most difficult, the Trillium Trail, and the River Trail.
No matter the path you take, you’ll find lots of interesting geology and rock formations like Devil’s Arch and Balancing Rock. The Niagara Glen is one of the last remaining pockets of old-growth Carolinian forest in Canada and is home to several at-risk species and native wildflowers.
16. Dufferin Islands, one of the lesser-known jewels of Niagara Falls in Ontario
While visiting Niagara Falls, Canada, be sure to stop by the Dufferin Islands. A quiet refuge of nature trails and solitude, the man-made islands are the perfect place to have some quiet time alone or with your loved one.
The Dufferin Islands are just a half-mile south of the Horseshoe Falls so, they won’t interfere with your travel plans. Here, you can explore 10 acres of secluded isles, which are connected by wooden footbridges. Many people refer to the islands as Niagara’s “hidden secret”, and I agree!
16. Dufferin Islands, one of the lesser-known jewels of Niagara Falls in Ontario
The Dufferin Islands Nature Area is open year-round, so visiting is a wonderful thing to do at the Canadian Niagara Falls at any time of the year. The fall foliage is stunning, and if you visit in the winter, check out the Festival of Lights display around the islands’ perimeter. In the spring and summer, wildflowers, lush trees, and vibrant greenery blossom next to the Niagara River.
For the past few years, the city has been reintroducing fish, native plants, and bird boxes to help revitalize the area. As a result, this tranquil oasis is a good place for picnicking, birdwatching, and nature walks.
The Dufferin Islands are a free place to visit near Niagara Falls, Canada, but you can save money with this 90-minute guided walk and optional Hornblower cruise. Since the islands are within walking distance of the falls, you can enjoy a half-day tour of the exciting Niagara Gorge and the calm Dufferin nature area.
17. Niagara Falls History Museum, an interesting place to visit in Niagara Falls, Canada
It’s a good idea to plan some stuff to do in Niagara Falls, Canada in case the weather is bad, so consider the Niagara Falls History Museum.
The Museum is just 15 minutes from the falls, in the former Stamford Township Hall. This building dates to 1874, making it the perfect structure to hold remnants of Niagara Falls’ history.
The exhibits are less about the waterfalls and more about the history of Ontario and Niagara Falls’ role in important events.
17. Niagara Falls History Museum, an interesting place to visit in Niagara Falls, Canada
The Community Gallery features interactive displays showcasing costumes, artifacts, documents, and other significant pieces. One of the Museum’s primary spaces is the Gale Family War of 1812 Gallery. Here, you’ll find audio-visual exhibits as well as soldier uniforms, weaponry, photographs, and other relics. There is a research room and a theater, too.
The galleries focus on the Niagara Falls area’s development in terms of geography, industry, and particularly, the War of 1812. Lundy’s Lane Battlefield at Drummond Hill Cemetery is another historical place near Niagara Falls, Canada, and about a block from the Museum. It was the site of a prominent battle during the war, and battlefield tours are available.
If you’re passionate about history or genuinely curious about the town’s past, the Museum is a fun thing to do at Niagara Falls, Canada. Plus, admission is very affordable and costs just a few dollars.
18. Queenston Heights Park, another must-see in Niagara Falls, Canada
Queenston Heights Park is a lovely place for sightseeing in Niagara Falls, Ontario if you want to get off the beaten path. The park is only a 20-minute drive from the Horseshoe Falls and is open year-round.
It offers lots of recreational spaces as well as a playground, tennis court, picnic pavilions and a restaurant overlooking the river. One of the first things you’ll see here is Brock’s Monument, which towers over 180 feet tall. The columnal structure is dedicated to Sir Isaac Brock, a Major General for the British Army known for his valor during the War of 1812. You can climb the 235 steps of the monument, which is also his gravesite, for views of the Ontario landscape.
18. Queenston Heights Park, another must-see in Niagara Falls, Canada
The park is historically significant, as it’s the site of the Battle of Queenston Heights in 1812. As such, you’ll find several important structures here, including the Laura Secord Memorial, who is lauded as a heroine in Canada for warning troops of the American invasion in 1813; and the Landscape of Nations, a Six Nations and Native Allies Commemorative Memorial sanctifying First Nation contributions during the War of 1812. Other landmarks include the Redan Battery and Fort Drummond artillery battery.
You can also hike the Queenston Heights Walking Trail. It’s less than a mile long, making it a good family activity to do near Niagara Falls, Canada. For something more challenging, check out the Southern Terminus Cairn of the Bruce Trail. The trail is over 550 miles, although only about 5 of those are in Queenston Heights.
19. Floral Clock, a popular place to visit in Niagara Falls, Ontario
The Floral Clock is one of the top 10 things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada. As you would expect, the main feature is the 40-foot clock made of flowers.
The clock was built in 1950 and is one of the largest clocks of its kind in the world. It has displayed a variety of floral patterns over the years, although it’s most vibrant from May to October. The designs require 16,000-19,000 bedding plants, which get switched out twice a year. Horticulturists plant vivid violas in the springtime, and alternanthera and Santolina sage in autumn. California golden privet and blue Festuca grass help the colors and patterns pop.
19. Floral Clock, a popular place to visit in Niagara Falls, Ontario
The Floral Clock’s hour, minute, and second hands are made of stainless steel and accurately keep time. Surrounding the clock is a 10-foot-wide pond that looks like a wishing well. It adds to the allure of this famous place, and you might even see tourists tossing coins into the water.
Although it’s one of the best attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada, it seems that lots of people aren’t aware of the Westminster Chimes behind the clock. The chimes sound every quarter-hour, and sometimes the Westminster tower is open to visitors, so you can peek inside and see the inner gear mechanisms as well as historical photos.
Not only is the clock one of the top activities to do on Canada’s Niagara Falls Parkway, but it’s also steps away from the Centennial Lilac Garden. The garden features 1,200 plants and is particularly fragrant and lush during the last two weeks of May.
20. Niagara Fallsview Casino, the best thing to do in Niagara Falls, Canada at night
The Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort offers entertainment, nightlife, and dining, so visiting it is a great thing to do in Niagara Falls, Canada, for couples. The towering complex is one of the most prominent structures on the Niagara skyline, and you can get scenic views of the Horseshoe Falls from inside.
When you walk through the resort’s main entrance, you’ll see ‘The Teslatron’ fountain, a nod to Nikola Tesla’s accomplishments at Niagara Falls. The 45-foot water feature mimics a hydroelectric plant and has a complete light display.
20. Niagara Fallsview Casino, the best thing to do in Niagara Falls, Canada at night
The Fallsview resort is like an adult playground and is one of the many exciting places to go in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The entire complex is 2,500,000 ft² and includes a nightclub, over 350 hotel rooms, and the Galleria Shopping Center with over 30 retailers. There are also 18 restaurants ranging from bars and lounges to buffets, fine dining, and casual fare, spanning a variety of cuisines.
The casino covers over 2,000,000 ft² and has hundreds of table games and slot machines, as well as weekly tournaments. There is also a 1,500-seat showroom at the resort for concerts and performances. The newest addition to Fallsview is an Entertainment Center and theater with a 5,000-person capacity.
With all that Fallsview has to offer, it’s a cool thing to do in Niagara Falls, Canada at night. Take in a show, have a fancy meal, or try your luck at the casino.
Hotels in Niagara Falls, Canada – Best hotels with a waterfall view
There is so much to see and do in Niagara Falls, Ontario. It’s a different experience than in the U.S., so I recommend spending at least one night on the Canadian side of the falls.
We arrived in Niagara Falls, Canada just in time to see the fabulous fireworks show, and we spent the following day exploring the area. We spent the night at the Sheraton on the Falls, and we were amazed by the views from our room.
This is one of the best hotels in Niagara Falls, Canada, so if you want to stay here, book well in advance. That said, there are several great alternatives that I’ll share below.
Sheraton on the Falls
I have to start with the Sheraton on the Falls because it really blew us away. The rooms are great and some of them offer spectacular views of the waterfalls. While these particular rooms are a bit more expensive, it was worth it to us to get stunning views from the comfort of our bed.
Sheraton on the Falls, one of the best hotels in Niagara Falls, Canada
Also, the hotel is home to the Fallsview Restaurant, which serves buffet and a la carte meals. The accommodation’s facilities also include shops, a spa, and a Starbucks. Plus, the hotel connects to the Niagara Casino and Fallsview Indoor Water Park, so on top of a great location, you’ll have all the amenities you want.
We loved staying here and think it’s one of the most beautiful hotels on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview
If you’re looking for luxury, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview is a perfect choice. The accommodation is just 300 feet from the falls, so it offers a convenient location and unbeatable views.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview, another hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada
The hotel also boasts awesome amenities like a breakfast buffet and complimentary drinks and snacks. Besides the hotel rooms, the facilities include a couple of restaurants (TGI Fridays and Keg Steakhouse), a Starbucks, an indoor pool, and a gym.
From the hotel, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the Skylon Observation Tower, so this is one of the best places to stay if you want to be close to the action.
The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls
The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls is aptly named, as it provides wonderful views of the Canadian falls. The hotel has an observation room where you can enjoy incredible views without the crowds.
The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls, a hotel overlooking Niagara Falls, Canada
It’s next to the Falls Incline Railway, which connects to Table Rock and Journey Behind the Falls. Along with its nice location, this accommodation has rooms with waterfall views, although they cost a bit more.
That said, if you stay here, you can take advantage of some great amenities, such as a living room with a fireplace, an indoor pool, a hot tub, a sauna, and a fitness center. There is also an Applebee’s on the premises.
Tower Hotel at Fallsview
The Tower Hotel at Fallsview is another beautiful accommodation in Niagara Falls, Canada. Along with comfortable rooms, the hotel also has a decent restaurant, so it’s quite a bargain for the price.
Tower Hotel at Fallsview, fine lodging in Niagara Falls, Ontario
If you’re not sure where to go in Niagara Falls, Ontario for more quiet lodging, this hotel is the best choice. You’ll get the rest you want, and you won’t have to pay too much.
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites
The Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites is another top hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada, that I recommend. It’s centrally located so you’ll have easy access to the area’s attractions and restaurants. Some of the rooms have views of the falls, too.
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites, another good hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada
This hotel also connects to the Fallsview Casino, so it’s a great place to stay if you plan on visiting the casino in the evening.
How to get to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls
If you’re not sure how to get to Niagara Falls, Canada, this section will tell you all you need to know. Don’t worry because you can get there with or without a vehicle.
When visiting Niagara Falls, Canada, most travelers arrive from Toronto. The simplest option is driving from Toronto to Niagara Falls since it only takes an hour and a half. If you want to rent a car, check out our guide to finding cheap rental cars.
We took our own car, although we arrived from the United States. Below, I’ll share tips on how to visit Niagara Falls, Canada, from the American side.
For those who are in Toronto but don’t want to drive, there is this day tour, which includes transportation, a guide, and discounts to several popular attractions.
However, if you prefer, you can travel to the falls by bus. The Megabus company offers several daily trips to Niagara Falls from Toronto, so it’s a good option if you prefer to travel without a tour.
How to get around Niagara Falls, Canada
Public transportation in Niagara Falls, Ontario is quite good, so you should be fine even if you don’t have a vehicle.
The main Niagara Falls attractions are accessible by foot. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can take advantage of the bus system.
The WeGo bus company is ideal for tourists since it sells transportation passes ranging from 24 to 48 hours. You can take these buses to any attraction in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
How to get around Niagara Falls, Canada
You may notice that most of the area’s hotels are on Fallsview Boulevard, which overlooks the Niagara Falls viewpoint and Table Rock area. The quickest way to get from the Boulevard to the main attractions is by taking the Falls Incline Railway.
Between the Railway and the WeGo buses, you shouldn’t have any problems reaching the points of interest on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. However, if you are short on time, the hop on-hop off Double Decker bus is the most time-efficient option.
The Double Decker bus does a loop around the area, stopping at all the main attractions. The entire circuit takes an hour and a half, but you can get off and on whenever you want. A tour guide will be on the bus to give you information about each attraction, too. This is a great option if you want to explore Niagara Falls, Canada, on your own without worrying about driving and parking.
Parking at Niagara Falls, Canada
If you’re visiting Niagara Falls in your own vehicle or a rental car, you’ll have to deal with parking. Ideally, your hotel will offer free parking, but this isn’t always the case, and parking isn’t free elsewhere.
That said, there are several parking lots in the central area of Niagara Falls, Canada. The parking rates aren’t outrageous considering how popular this place is, so you might want to consider parking there. The average daily rate is about USD 12 (about CAD 16). I suggest figuring out what to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario, ahead of time so you can choose a parking lot close to those attractions.
Niagara Falls, Canada map
To help you organize your trip, here is a map of Niagara Falls, Ontario. This map includes tourist attractions, hotels, and parking lots to make it easier to plan your itinerary.
I suggest keeping this map handy while you’re on Canada’s side of Niagara Falls. You can print it or download it to your smartphone for easy access.
Niagara Falls Border Crossings – How to get from Niagara Falls’ Canadian side to the U.S. side
Seeing Niagara Falls from Canada’s side is quite special, especially since many people say the views are better in Ontario. Of course, you can get the full experience by also visiting the American side of the falls. This full-day tour includes activities on both sides of Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls Border Crossings
If you’re not sure how to get to the American side of Niagara Falls from Canada, don’t worry because it’s pretty straightforward.
The fastest way is to cross the Rainbow Bridge on foot, in a car, or by bus. Whichever mode of transport you use, you’ll be crossing the United States-Canada border, so you’ll have to present proper documentation to the immigration officers there.
If you’re a Canadian citizen, you’ll need to show a valid passport, but you won’t need a visa. However, if you’re a citizen of another country, you can check this website to see what documentation you need besides a passport, if any. Here, I have an article on how to apply for an ESTA to the USA.
With that, you now know everything you need to know about places to visit in Niagara Falls, Canada, as well as where to stay and park. If you have any questions about things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario, or how to get around, leave me a comment, and I’ll help as much as I can.
Finally, be sure to check out our guide to visiting both sides of Niagara Falls here. Safe travels and I hope you enjoy the beauty of the falls!
