Niagara Falls: Where nature's wonder meets urban excitement

1. Niagara Falls State Park

Natural Attraction | Park

Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the United States, offering views of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side. From here, you can visit Goat Island to stroll along beautifully landscaped gardens, which feature the Terrapin Point Observation Tower.

Operating hours: Open 24 hours

Location: 332 Prospect Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14303

Pro tip: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and the best sunrise views.

2. Hornblower Niagara Cruises

Boat Tour | Adventure

Hornblower Niagara Cruises offers boat tours starting on the Canadian side that take you up close to the American and Bridal Veil Falls on the American side and into the basin of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. The boat will sail through the mist, giving you a powerful view of the Falls' full height and volume. The tour also provides ponchos to help you stay dry, though you should still be prepared for a soaking.

Operating hours: Seasonal; generally 9am to 5pm

Location: 5920 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8

Wear waterproof clothing and bring a waterproof case for your camera.

3. Journey Behind the Falls

Attraction | Experience

Journey Behind the Falls takes you through 125 feet of tunnels carved behind the Horseshoe Falls. You'll descend into the Niagara Gorge and walk through tunnels that lead to observation decks directly beside the Falls. This gives you a close-up view of the Falls’ base and allows you to feel the force of the water up close.

Operating hours: 9am to 7pm

Location: 6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T2

Pro tip: Visit in the early morning before 11am or late afternoon after 5pm to avoid crowds and explore the tunnels and observation decks at your own pace.

4. Skylon Tower

Observation Deck | Dining

At 775 feet above the ground, this observation deck offers sweeping views of both the American and Canadian sides of the Falls. At the tower’s revolving restaurant, you can enjoy a range of dishes like grilled steaks, seafood, and fresh salads while catching views of the Niagara River, Niagara Peninsula, and, on clear days, even the Toronto skyline.

Operating hours: 9am to 10pm

Location: 5200 Robinson Street, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 2A2

Pro tip: Plan to visit here after sunset to watch the Falls illuminated in a nightly light show as you dine at the revolving restaurant.

5. Clifton Hill

Entertainment | Family Fun

Dubbed the "Street of Fun," Clifton Hill has attractions like arcades, restaurants, and the iconic Niagara SkyWheel that offers panoramic views of the Falls. It's the perfect spot for family entertainment and vibrant nightlife.

Operating hours: Varies by attraction; generally open until midnight

Location: Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N8

Pro tip: Grab a Clifton Hill Fun Pass for discounts on multiple attractions.

6. Floral Showhouse

Botanical Garden | Nature

Step into this greenhouse to see exotic plants and beautifully arranged floral displays. The serene environment provides a peaceful escape with seasonal blooms and lush greenery.
Operating hours: 9am to 5pm
Location: 7145 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T2

Pro tip: Check the seasonal displays for unique floral arrangements and special events.

7. Niagara SkyWheel

Observation Wheel | Family Fun

One of North America's largest observation wheels, the Niagara SkyWheel offers impressive aerial views of the Falls and the surrounding landscape. Enjoy the sights in comfort from enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas.
Operating hours: 10am to midnight
Location: 4946 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N5
Pro tip: Visit after dark for a magical view of the illuminated Falls.

8. Whirlpool State Park

Outdoor Activity | Nature

Named for the dramatic whirlpool formed by the Niagara River's powerful currents, this park features scenic trails, excellent hiking opportunities, and picnic spots. Take in the remarkable views of the Niagara Gorge and the whirlpool below.

Operating hours: 6am to 10pm

Location: 3686 Whirlpool Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14305

Pro tip: Visit the park early morning or late afternoon to capture the whirlpool in the best light and avoid crowds.

9. Niagara on the Lake

Historic Town | Wine Country

Take a short trip to this charming town known for its historic architecture, boutique shops, restaurants, and  wineries. Escape the crowds at Niagara Falls and take a scenic stroll or go for a wine tasting as you take in beautiful views of Lake Ontario.

Operating hours: Shops and wineries vary; generally 10am to 6pm

Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0

Pro tip: Visit during fall for stunning autumn foliage and wine festivals.

10. Cave of the Winds

Adventure | Nature

Walk right up to the base of Bridal Veil Falls at the Cave of Winds located on Goat Island. Here, you will take an elevator ride down into the Niagara Gorge and walk along a series of wooden walkways that bring you to the "Hurricane Deck," where you'll feel the full force of the Falls and get drenched by the mist. This unique adventure offers an up-close encounter with one of nature's most powerful forces.

Operating hours: 9am to 7:30pm

Location: Goat Island, Niagara Falls, NY 14303

Pro tip: Wear the provided poncho and sandals to stay comfortable, and store your belongings in  lockers to keep them dry.

11. Niagara Scenic Trolley

Sightseeing | Family-Friendly

Hop on the Niagara Scenic Trolley and explore Niagara Falls State Park while learning about its history Visit attractions like Goat Island and Prospect Point at your own pace, hopping on and off at different stops as you please.

Operating hours: 9am to 6pm
Location: Niagara Falls State Park, Niagara Falls, NY 14303
Pro tip: Use the unlimited boarding pass to explore different attractions throughout the day.

12. Niagara Underground Power Station & Tunnel Tours

Historical tour, Engineering

This impressive facility showcases how hydroelectric power is generated from the Niagara River. The tour takes you deep underground to explore the decommissioned power station and its extensive tunnel system. You’ll learn how the plant harnessed the power of the Falls to generate electricity and walk through the historic tunnel that leads to a stunning view of the Niagara River.

Operating hours: 9am to 5pm

Location: 7001 Power Station Road, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5

Pro tip: Combine this tour with the Skylon Tower for a full day of exploration.

Weather guide

Trip planner