Niagara Falls (Ontario) - city located in the province of Ontario, Canada

Niagara Falls, Ontario, is the self-proclaimed "Honeymoon Capital of the World". For over a century the grandeur of the waterfalls of the Niagara River have attracted tourists to this destination.

Understand

Niagara Falls was incorporated on June 12, 1903. Its population was 88,000 in 2016.

Mainly a tourist destination, the main attraction has always been Niagara Falls, which brings hundreds of thousands of tourists to the city. Tourism plays a major part in the economy of the region. Increasingly, visitors seeking more natural settings are finding the Niagara River to a great place to hike and visit downstream from the Falls where the majority of visitors go.

Visitor information

Welcome Centres open daily at 9AM, June through August. They offer advice and maps of the area, and sell WEGO day passes and the Adventure Pass. They are located at:

• Table Rock Centre, 6650 Niagara Pkwy (inside the mall near the brink of the Horseshoe Falls), 43.079201°, -79.078833°. Open year-round. 2019-11-08
• Grand View Marketplace Welcome Centre, 5920 Niagara Pkwy (outside the Hornblower Niagara Cruises ticket booths), 43.089179°, -79.072676°. Seasonal. 2019-11-08
• Niagara Parks Welcome Centre (Clifton Hill), Falls Ave (at Clifton Hill), 43.090214°, -79.073409°. Seasonal. 2019-11-08
• Murray Hill Welcome Centre, 5146 Murray St (Fallsview tourist district), 43.083980°, -79.078217°. Seasonal. 2019-11-08
• Rapidsview Welcome Centre, Upper Rapids Blvd (at Rapidsview Parking Lot), 43.067523°, -79.065837°. Seasonal. 2019-11-08

Also available:

• Ontario Tourism Information Centre, 5355 Stanley Ave (corner of Stanley Ave and Hwy 420), 43.096758°, -79.086392°, +1 905-358-3221. 8:30AM-4:30PM. Travel info for the Province of Ontario. 2019-12-03

Niagara Parks operates parks along the Canadian side of the Niagara River from Fort Erie to Niagara-on-the-Lake, and promotes attractions on its parkland. It also jointly operates the WEGO Visitor Transportation System (a hop-on/hop-off bus service) in Niagara Falls. Niagara Parks offers visitors the following package deals:

• The Adventure Pass is available approximately for May to October, and comes in two versions: Classic ($67) and Plus ($90). The Plus pass has all the features of the Classic plus more attractions and transit options. Both passes include Journey Behind the Falls, a Hornblower Niagara Cruise, White Water Walk and a two-day WEGO pass, among other benefits.
• The Wonder Pass, available approximately for November to April, offers Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara's Fury, Butterfly Conservatory, Floral Showhouse, a two-day pass for WEGO and Falls Incline Railway plus other benefits. The pass could cost as little $25.

Niagara Parks and GO Transit jointly offer a year-round, weekend train travel deal including GO train fare on a weekend between Toronto and Niagara Falls plus a two-day WEGO pass. This offers a small discount over purchasing GO and WEGO tickets separately.

Climate

Spring: Temperatures range from 5° to 19°C (41°-66°F). Nightly temperatures range from -3° to 8° C (26° to 46°F). As temperature changes are sudden outdoor camping before mid-May is not advisable.

Summer: In June, July & August the weather is generally bright and sunny with sporadic rainfall. Storms are caused by Lake Erie and Lake Ontario and are seldom severe.

Fall: In the fall, it is unlikely to snow prior to the end of October. First killing frost and/or snowfall be expected by late October or early November. Mixed weather patterns prevail. Rain and cloudy skies are common.

Winter: The days are generally cold and clear. Snow is moderate. Snow storms are infrequent. Lake effect snowfalls are mainly localized to areas near Buffalo and southward. Lake Erie, during extended cold weather will freeze over completely. Some of the activities associated with the falls (e.g. Maid of the Mist and Marineland) do not run during winter due to the frozen conditions, but most attractions now remain open year-round, dealing with mist-related ice near Niagara Falls.

Get in

By plane

The closest airports to the Falls are across the border in the U.S. Buffalo-Niagara International Airport (IATA: BUF) just outside of Buffalo, New York is about a 20-30 minute drive from the Falls and is served by most major American carriers. Niagara Falls International Airport (IATA: IAG) is the closest airport to the Falls, but only a few scheduled flights serve it.

On the Canadian side, Hamilton International Airport (IATA: YHM) in Hamilton is about 70 km (43 mi) from Niagara Falls, and is served by WestJet. Toronto Pearson International Airport (IATA: YYZ) in Mississauga is about a 1 1/2 hour drive from the Falls and is served by most major domestic and international carriers.

Buffalo Airport Shuttle, +1 716 685-2550, offers service from the Buffalo-Niagara airport to the Canadian side of the Falls. A family of 4 can expect to pay less than $25 per person and the drivers often have great tips on where to go and what to avoid.

By car

Niagara Falls is about 2 hours from Toronto (assuming ideal traffic conditions), and 30 minutes from Buffalo.

• From New York, Boston, and the East Coast: Take I-90 west towards Buffalo to the 290 west. Exit onto the 190 north towards Grand Island and Niagara Falls. Follow the highway through Grand Island, then take the exit immediately after the North Grand Island Bridge (as you're leaving the island) for the Niagara Scenic Parkway. Continue until in downtown Niagara Falls, New York. Proceed on Rainbow Boulevard, to the Rainbow Bridge, across to Niagara Falls, Ontario.
• From Chicago and the Midwest: Cross the international border at Detroit/Windsor, then take Ontario Highway 401 east to the 403 east. Divert around Hamilton via Lincoln M. Alexander Parkway and Red Hill Valley Parkway, which will lead you to the Niagara-bound QEW. Continue to Highway 420 (signs for The Falls and Niagara Falls, USA), which becomes Roberts Street. Stay straight to go onto Falls Avenue.

If you're coming from points east of Detroit, you can instead take I-90 east through Ohio and Pennsylvania, then at Buffalo exit at I-190 north. Pass through Grand Island, then take the exit immediately after the North Grand Island Bridge (as you're leaving the island) for the Niagara Scenic Parkway. Follow the signs for the Rainbow Bridge; downtown Niagara Falls, Ontario is at the far end of the bridge.

• From Buffalo-Niagara International Airport: Take NY 33 west from the airport, the first exit off of which is I-90 eastbound (signs for Niagara Falls and Albany). Exit onto I-90, then get off at Exit 50 (I-290 west), which you'll follow to the end of the highway. From there, take I-190 north (over both Grand Island Bridges, $1 toll) to the Niagara Scenic Parkway. Follow the signs for the Rainbow Bridge; downtown Niagara Falls, Ontario is at the far end of the bridge.
• From Toronto Pearson International Airport: Take Highway 427 south to the QEW towards Hamilton. Drive for about 100 km (62 mi) and then keep left to take Highway 420 east, which becomes Roberts Street. Stay straight to go onto Falls Avenue.

By bus

• Niagara Falls Bus Terminal, 4555 Erie Ave (opposite the Niagara Falls Train Station), 43.108173°, -79.063637°, +1 905-357-2133. Connections to WEGO Transport Services. 2019-09-02
  • Megabus (Coach Canada). 2019-09-02
  • GO Transit, +1 416-869-3200, the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area's regional/commuter rail and bus system operates commuter/regional bus service to/from the Burlington train station, connecting with commuter/regional trains to/from Toronto. Most buses make stops en route in Stoney Creek, as well in Grimsby and St. Catharines. The bus ride to/from Burlington station is between 80-90 minutes. The train ride from there to downtown Toronto is another 60 minutes. However, during the summer, on Fridays (or Thursday if Friday is a holiday) evenings and weekends/holidays there are express bus services that run directly to/from Burlington station. These buses take around 65 minutes to reach Niagara Falls from Burlington. A one-way standard ticket is $21.15 to/from Toronto (as of 2019). The buses have coach style seating but seating is not reserved and there are no washrooms, wi-fi services, or any on-board amenities. Buses run every 60 minutes on weekends/holidays and 60-90 minutes on weekdays.

Taxi service to the Falls and main tourist area from the bus depot will run $10-15, If you fancy a walk the route is simple and easy, although nearly 5 km (3 mi), and has the advantage of seeing the Falls come slowly into view.

• Niagara Region Transit (intercity), +1 833-678-5463. Operates regional bus service connecting Niagara Falls (Ontario), Fort Erie, St. Catharines, Port Colborne, and Welland. The regional fare (as of 2023: $6, $5 if aged 13-17 or 65+) must be paid in exact cash on the bus in Canadian currency. The regional fare allows a free transfer with local routes operated by Niagara Regional Transit. You can pay the higher regional fare on any local Niagara Regional Transit bus, but ask for a transfer to transfer to an intercity Niagara Regional Transit route. A Niagara Regional Transit fare is not valid for WEGO, or other transit operators in Niagara Region. 2023-03-22

• Equinox Bus. Bus service from Toronto and Niagara-on-the-Lake. In partnership with OurBus, service from Buffalo Airport. 2021-10-03

• FlixBus. Service from Toronto, St. Catharines, Hamilton, Buffalo, and New York City. 2022-08-16

• Rider Express. Bus service from Toronto. 2022-06-18

By train

The Maple Leaf train, operated jointly by Amtrak and VIA Rail, serves Niagara Falls. The train runs daily between Toronto and New York City via Oakville, St. Catharines, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, and various smaller cities. Trains depart Toronto at 08:20AM every day and arrive at Niagara Falls, ON at 10:20AM. From New York City, the train departs daily at 07:15AM, crossing the border and reaching Niagra Falls, ON at 4:46PM.

GO Transit, the regional rail and bus service in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area offers two train services between Toronto and Niagara Falls. The most useful service for visitors is the Niagara Weekend GO Train Service which runs year-round on weekends and most statutory holidays, more often in summer, less so during off season. Less useful for visitors is the GO Transit workday commuter service running one train to Toronto in the early morning, returning in the evening to Niagara Falls. Schedules change frequently, so it is important to check. As of January 2023, on weekends a train departs Toronto for Niagara at 10:07AM and 5:07PM and returns at 1:10PM and 8:10PM. The fares, as of January 2023, are $21.15 cash, about half the price of the Maple Leaf. GO Transit also operates bus service, as detailed above. Seats on the train are not reserved and more of the public transit variety

GO weekday train is the only option that provides service in Hamilton. Maple Leaf, GO weekend Niagara Train, and GO Bus services bypass the city.

Both the Maple Leaf and GO Transit trains can accommodate bikes.

• Niagara Falls station, 4267 Bridge Street, 43.108860°, -79.063424°, +1-888-842-7245. Built in 1879 in a Gothic Revival style, the station is located north of the city centre and about 4 km (2.5 mi) from the Falls. The city's main bus depot is across the street and taxi service are available. 2019-01-03

Get around

On foot

Many of the main attractions are within walking distance depending on where you walk from, and the rest are easily accessible by transit. Some roads are steep so it may be preferable to drop elderly family members off near the Falls before parking.

During the busiest tourist season (May - October), the Niagara Parkway and Queen Victoria Park along the Canadian side of the Falls, can become very crowded and finding a "picture perfect" view of the Falls is difficult. Walking to the attractions can be slow during peak tourist season with thousands of people bustling by.

If you want to park your car and walk around the city, consider parking at the Niagara Casino (near the Hilton Hotel). It is a flat $5 every time you leave the garage; there is no limit on how long you can leave your car inside the garage.

By public transit

• WEGO Niagara Falls. operates a bus network of 3 routes: Green along the Niagara Parkway, Red along Lundys Lane and Blue along Victoria Avenue and Fallsview Avenue. All three routes converge at Table Rock Centre near the edge of the falls. There are stops at points of interest, attractions and hotels. Before using WEGO, riders must buy a one or two day pass from a select retailer (see website); drivers do not sell WEGO passes. These passes cannot be used on the Niagara-on-the-Lake shuttle, Niagara Regional Transit buses where separate fares are required. Note: The Adventure Pass and Wonder Pass sold at Niagara Parks Welcome Centres both include a two-day WEGO pass. 2022-09-26
• Niagara Region Transit (local routes) (formerly Niagara Falls Transit), +1 833-678-5463. Niagara Region Transit operates local bus routes servicing sections of Niagara Falls not covered by WEGO. To pay the local fare ($3 as of 2023), insert exact cash (coins or paper money) into a fare box that counts and displays the amount inserted. After paying your fare, ask for a transfer to complete your trip on another local Niagara Falls Transit bus. Day passes are available. The local fare is not valid for WEGO nor for intercity trips. 2022-03-22 The estimated arrival times for all WEGO, Niagara Falls Transit and Niagara Region Transit buses are availabe in graphic or text format.

By taxi

• Central Taxi, +1 905-685-7343. Provides 24-hour taxi service in the Niagara Region. 2022-08-01
• Niagara Falls Taxi, +1 905-357-4000. 2022-08-01

By ride hailing

• Uber. 2022-08-01

See

• Most visitors' first view of the Falls, from the Canadian side of the river, is at Queen Victoria Park 📍 along the Niagara Falls Parkway. This grand, royal garden provides the perfect vantage point for experiencing the nightly illumination of the Falls and the summer fireworks displays. The Falls are illuminated every evening until approximately midnight (see website for exact times) and there are Falls Fireworks shows every night in the summer months (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only in the late spring and early fall).

• Botanical Gardens, 2565 Niagara Pkwy (9 km/6 mi north of the Falls), 43.1356°, -79.0568°. Open daily year-round, dawn until dusk. 100 acres of 20th century themed gardens, a magnificent arboretum, as well as North America's largest butterfly conservatory. At their best in the summer. Free admission. Parking is $5

• Bird Kingdom, 5651 River Rd, 43.0926°, -79.0687°, +1 905-356-8888, info@birdkingdom.ca. Open daily. Sept-Jun 9:30AM-5PM, Jul-Aug 9AM-6:30PM. This tropical adventure with over 400 birds is the largest free-flying indoor aviary in the world. Adults $17.95, Children (3-15) $13.95 (all prices plus HST), Parking $2 per hour. Some online discounts available. 2019-08-24

• Butterfly Conservatory, 2405 Niagara Pkwy (9 km/6 mi north of the Falls, within the Botanical Gardens), 43.1373°, -79.0555°. Open year-round except 25 December. Check website for times, as they vary.. Over 2,000 butterflies in an enclosed garden - great photo opportunities Prices as of March 2014: Adults (13 years and older) $16, children (6 to 12 years): $10.25, children 5 and under: free. Parking is $5

• Centennial Lilac Garden, 14004 Niagara Pkwy (just north of Floral Clock), 43.151854°, -79.048213°. Created to celebrate Canada's centennial in 1867, the park contains 1200 plants and 200 varieties. The park is best seen in May and early June. 2019-12-02

• Chippawa Battlefield Park, Niagara Parkway ( south of the falls), 43.052146°, -79.02448°. There is a monument in the 300-acre park to commemorate the 1814 Battle of Chippawa. 2019-12-02

• Dufferin Islands, Niagara Pkwy (about 2km south of the Horseshoe Falls), 43.0689°, -79.0707°. Dufferin Islands is a 10-acre park with several small islands connected by small bridges and footpaths. The park is a naturalized area with indigenous vegetation, fish, bird feeding stations and bird boxes. Free 2018-08-14

• Floral clock, 14004 Niagara Pkwy (near the Lewiston-Queenston International Bridge), 43.1495°, -79.0473°. A clock made entirely of flowers. Admission and parking are free

• Floral Showhouse, 7145 Niagara Pkwy (about 1km south of the Horseshoe Falls), 43.0725°, -79.0770°. 9:30AM-5PM. Interior garden of orchids, succulents, and other tropical plant species. Plus eight changing floral shows per year. 2018-08-14

• Nathaniel Dett Memorial Chapel (BME Church), 5674 Peer St (at Grey Ave), 43.087672°, -79.088468°, +1 905-358-9957. This wood-frame church is a National Heritage Landmark Site built in 1836. It was a station along the Underground Railway. 2019-12-02

• Niagara Falls History Museum, 5810 Ferry St (at Sylvia Place), 43.089294°, -79.091226°, +1 905-358-5082. Tu-W,F-Su 10AM-5PM, Th 10AM-9PM. Local history in three galleries with hands-on exhibits and digital guides. 2019-12-02

• Niagara Military Museum, 5049 Victoria Ave (at Armoury St), 43.101192°, -79.073572°. W-Sa 11AM-4PM. 2019-12-02

• Oakes Garden Theatre, 5851 Niagara Pkwy (at foot of Clifton Hill), 43.090360°, -79.072204°. Outdoor amphitheatre, formal gardens, view of falls. 2019-12-02

• Queenston Heights Park, 14184 Niagara Pkwy (near the Lewiston-Queenston International Bridge), 43.160147°, -79.052234°. This park includes the Brock and Laura Secord Monuments. It is also an end point of the Bruce Trail, which winds it way northward over 800 km (497 mi) to Tobermory.

• Sir Adam Beck Power Station, 14000 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, 43.1475°, -79.0447°, +1 905-357-2379. Guided tour every 15 minutes, year-round. See how the massive power of the Niagara River is harnessed and used to power the surrounding area

• Niagara Parks Power Station, 7005 Niagara Parkway (between Table Rock Welcome Centre and the Floral Showhouse), 43.0745°, -79.0787°. 10AM-5PM. A former power station, the 2,200 foot-long water tunnel located nearly 200 feet below the surface opens up to a new view of the Niagara Falls at the water level. Inside the former power plant, there are exhibits, artifacts, history and science of this hydroelectric power plant. Adults $28, Child $18.25 2022-07-03

• A total solar eclipse on Monday 8 April 2024 starts at 3:18PM local time and lasts 3 min 30 sec. The chances of a clear sky are 35%. The track of totality is northeast from Mexico and Texas to Ohio, straddling the Canada–New England border through Lakes Erie and Ontario, then across Maine, New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

Do

Sightseeing

• Falls Incline Railway, 7001 Portage Rd, 43.079569°, -79.081027°. This funicular offers a view of the falls on its slow 60 metre descent. It also offers a showcut for pedestrians between the Fallsview area and Table Rock. There are 1-way, round-trip and day tickets. 2019-12-02
• Hornblower Niagara Cruises (Formerly: Maid of the Mist), 5920 Niagara Parkway (at the bottom of Clifton Hill), 43.0880°, -79.0730°, +1 905-NIAGARA, info@niagaracruises.com. Seasonal: approximately May to October. A boat tour to the foot of the falls, where visitors can better appreciate their thunder and spray. There are three types of cruises: Voyage to the Falls, Sunset Cocktail Cruise, and Falls Illumination/Fireworks Cruise. See their website for hours, as they vary. Many people want to use their digital cameras to take pictures, but they will get wet, so plan ahead. Adults (13 years and older): $25.95, children (5 to 12 years): $15.95, children 4 and under: free 2019-08-24
• Hornblower Niagara Funicular, Niagara Parkway (at the foot of Clifton Hill), 43.089321°, -79.072116°. The funicular takes visitors down the gorge to view the American Falls from the dock area, and optionnally to board Hornblower cruises. The funicular operates 30 minutes before the first cruise until 15 minutes before last cruise. Adults $4.25+HST if not taking a Hornblower cruise 2019-12-02
• Journey Behind the Falls, 6650 Niagara Pkwy (Table Rock Centre, beside the Falls), 43.0792°, -79.0784°. M-Th 10AM-6PM, F-Su 10AM-8PM. This is an interesting attraction to consider in lieu of Hornblower Niagara Cruises (or when Hornblower Niagara Cruises isn't operating). Although popular, the lines aren't nearly as long for "Journey" as they are for Hornblower Niagara Cruises, and therefore may be a better option on crowded days, or for those travelling with small children. Ponchos are provided, as the Journey still offers participants the chance to feel the "spray" of the Falls, from portholes opening behind the Falls, as well as access to a small open area on the bank of the river, no more than 200 feet from the base of the falls. An informative guided tour that still provides some of the thrills of the other attractions. Open year-round except 25 December. Whilst this attraction remains open during winter, often some of the viewing points are inaccessible due to snow build-up. Adults (13 years and older): $23.50, children (6 to 12 years): $15.50, children 5 and under: free 2022-07-03
• Niagara Helicopters Limited, 3731 Victoria Ave, 43.118620°, -79.074395°, weflyyou@niagarahelicopters.com. Over the Falls and surrounding area.
• Niagara Skywheel, 4946 Clifton Hill, 43.0909°, -79.0759°, +1 905-358-4793. Ferris-wheel-like, with air-conditioned/heated pods and views of the Falls and surrounding skyline. 10-minute ride. Year-round. $9.99, child $5.99
• Skylon Tower, 5200 Robinson St, 43.085278°, -79.079722°, +1 905-356-2651, skyinfo@skylon.com. Summer hours 8AM-midnight, winter 11AM-9PM. 520-ft (160-m) tower that has an observation deck. There are two restaurants with a great view of the falls. One is a revolving restaurant, the other is a buffet. There are arcade games in the base. $12.95, child: $7.55, some online discounts
• Whirlpool Aero Car, 3850 Niagara River Pkwy (4.5 km/3 mi north of the Falls), 43.118°, -79.0688°, +1 877 642-7275. Cable car ride over the Niagara Whirlpool. Open March - November. Adults (13 years and older): $16, children (6 to 12 years): $10.25, children 5 and under: free 2019-08-24
• White Water Walk, 4330 Niagara Pkwy, 43.1110°, -79.0605°. A 1,000-ft (305 m) boardwalk beside the rapids. Open seasonally. Adults (13 years and older): $14, children (6 to 12 years): $9, children 5 and under: free 2019-08-24
• WildPlay Niagara Falls (aerial courses). This Canadian chain of aerial adventure courses has two attractions in Niagara Falls. 2016-09-27
  • MistRider Zipline, 5920 Niagara Parkway, 43.088897°, -79.073497°. mid-Jul - mid-Oct: Su-Th 10AM-4PM, F 10AM-7PM, Sa 8AM-7PM. The ziplines take riders on a 670-meter (2,200-foot) trip along the river gorge, with great views of all three falls. $60 2016-09-27
  • Whirlpool Adventure Course, 3500 Niagara Pkwy, 43.123672°, -79.068550°. A set of aerial adventure courses with obstacles and ziplines, near the Niagara Whirlpool. There are Classic (ages 7+), Extreme (ages 12+), and Kids' (ages 5-12) courses. There's also the "What's to Fear Jump" (ages 7+), a 40-foot loose-line freefall, available as a standalone activity or as a package with the courses. Classic $40, Extreme $50, Kids' $20; Jump $20 ($15 with adventure course) 2016-09-27
• Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, 43.166404°, -79.052961°, +1 888-438-4444. Apr-Oct. Queenston departure point (approx. 20 minutes from downtown Niagara Falls, limited parking). The tour does not give a view of the falls, and is not for those who wish to stay dry.

Amusement and entertainment

Niagara Falls is awesome! The list is never ending: world class casinos, rides, wax museums, haunted houses, a huge midway with more skeeball and games than you can shake a stick at, restaurants, clubs, bars, and so on. Go to Niagara Falls, get a hotel near the falls and then walk down towards Clifton Hill. The air is buzzing and there are people from all over the world there.

• Casino Niagara, 5705 Falls Ave (near Clifton Hill), 43.0924°, -79.0707°, +1 905-374-3598. The original Niagara Falls casino. It is the oldest and smallest of the three Niagara Falls casinos.
• Clifton Hill Attractions, Clifton Hill. Check out the vast array of flashing lights, Haunted Houses, Mazes, a Fun House, Arcade. Tons of fun attractions and restaurants. Located right near the falls between the Niagara Parkway and Victoria Ave.
  • Nightmares Fear Factory, 5631 Victoria Ave (1 block east of top of Clifton Hill), 43.0934°, -79.0742°, +1 905-357-3327, info@nightmaresfearfactory.com. Haunted house attraction, famous for the number of visitors that 'chicken out'. 2016-06-08
  • Ripley's Believe it or Not, 4960 Clifton Hill, 43.0916°, -79.0758°. 2018-08-14
• Fallsview Casino, 6380 Fallsview Blvd, 43.0818°, -79.0800°. A Vegas-style casino built to replace Casino Niagara. The second of three Niagara Falls casinos and the last to be built on the Canadian side of the Niagara Gorge.
• Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, 5685 Falls Ave, 43.0925°, -79.0706°, +1 905-374-4444. Niagara's largest indoor waterpark at 125,000 square feet. The water park features 16 slides, up to six stories high, full-size wavepool and outdoor year-round pool. The Fallview Indoor Waterpark is directly connected to the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel, Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls - Fallsview Hotel and the Skyline Inn Niagara Falls.
• Greg Frewin Dinner Theatre, 5781 Ellen Ave, 43.092146°, -79.078997°, tickets@gregfrewintheatre.com. Illusionist Greg Frewin presents his Las Vegas-style magic show.
• IMAX theatre and Daredevil Museum, 6170 Fallsview Blvd, 43.0852°, -79.0821°, +1 905-358-3611, info@imaxniagara.com. Has a 45-minute movie about the history of the Falls, filmed in 2005, that's not quite worth the price of admission ($14.50). However, the theatre also houses a daredevil exhibition with original barrels used by falls and whirlpool daredevils on display, well worth the $8.00. Some online discounts and coupons from other attractions available. $8.00
• Marineland Theme Park, 7657 Portage Rd, 43.0656°, -79.0725°. Dolphin, sea lion and walrus shows. Exhibits of marine animals include killer whales, beluga whales and black bears. A variety of amusement park rides such as Sky Screamer, a three-tower ride which elevates riders high enough to see Niagara Falls a mile and a half away. $40/adult, $33/child (5-9), toddlers (0-4) free
• Niagara’s Fury, 6650 Niagara Pkwy (Table Rock), 43.079387°, -79.078786°. A 360-degree audio/visual theatre with a 45-minute presentation about Niagara Falls. 2019-12-02

Miscellaneous

• Get married: A wide selection of destination wedding venues (ranging from free-standing chapels to parkland to facilities within individual hotels) awaits on both sides of the Falls upon advance reservation. You'll need an officiant and two witnesses; a marriage licence must be obtained in advance from any city or town clerk's office in the province.
  • City of Niagara Falls, 4310 Queen St (exit 4283), 43.10593°, -79.06403°, +1 905-356-7521. The City of Niagara Falls issues marriage licences ($125, no waiting period, no medical tests) valid for 90 days anywhere in Ontario. No ceremonies are performed at Niagara City Hall. 2021-12-07
  • Niagara Parks has information about weddings, receptions, and wedding photography near the Falls.
  • Niagara Falls Tourism also has a wedding information page. The page describes how eligible couples can obtain a free Niagara Falls Honeymoon Certificate or Niagara Falls Anniversary Certificate.
• The Q (Niagara Falls Downtown), Queen St (between Erie Ave and Valley Way), 43.1067°, -79.0633°, +1 905-353-9555. Queen Street has been revitalized into the latest Niagara Arts & Culture District. Art galleries, boutiques, cafés, bistros, live theatre and festivals.
• Winter Festival of Lights. Area around the Falls. A 5-km/3-mi route along the Niagara Parkway featuring over three million sparkling tree and ground lights, and over 120 lighting displays. Illuminations run from mid Nov to Jan 31, from 5PM to midnight. Opening festivities includes fireworks. Fireworks over the Falls every Friday night at 9PM during Nov, and Dec. The fireworks are 4 minutes long. No admission, $10 donation per car suggested.

Buy

Individual merchants will usually accept US dollars at a (lower) posted rate than you'd get at a bank.

There are a great many souvenir shops in Niagara Falls, especially in the Clifton Hill area. The biggest might be the Grand View Marketplace at the foot of Clifton Hill just above the Hornblower Cruises docks. You'll find everything from the usual t-shirts and calendars to vials of Niagara Falls water.

Eat

As a major tourist destination, many restaurant chains are represented in Niagara Falls. In particular, there's a Hard Rock Cafe between Casino Niagara and the Sheraton on the Falls.

Note: Restaurants may add a tourism-related fee to the bill but such fees should be clearly indicated on the menu when you order.

Budget

• Basell's Restaurant & Tavern, 4880 Victoria Ave, 43.103531°, -79.072914°, +1 905-356-7501. A super-cheap restaurant that may look like "a little hole in the wall" but the food is delish. Try the special: soup du jour (try the vegetable), coleslaw, potatoes or fries, tea or coffee, the special, and frozen yogurt or ice cream for the end for only about $8. Dinner prices range from $8 for a sandwich to $20-something for steak or seafood.
• The Flying Saucer, 6768 Lundy's Ln (look for the UFO), 43.088786°, -79.108199°, +1 905-356-4553. Daily 7AM-10PM. Diner/greasy spoon. Home of the $2.99 breakfast (two eggs, home fries and toast) served between 6AM and 10AM. Very busy on weekend mornings, but service is efficient. 2022-07-03

Mid-range

• Antica Pizzeria & Ristorante, 5785 Victoria Ave, 43.091507°, -79.077321°, +1 905-356-3844. Thin-crust pizza made to order in wood-burning ovens. Can be busy at dinner time.
• Carpaccio Restaurant, 6840 Lundy's Ln, 43.088784°, -79.109338°, +1 905-371-2063. Lots of options including chicken, veal and steak entrées, grilled salmon, rack of lamb, ravioli, gnocchi, lasagna, wild mushroom risotto. Thin crust oven-baked pizzas. Soy spaghetti is available. Family friendly. Dinner mains, $10-35
• Grand View Restaurant (Maid of the Mist Restaurant), 5920 River Rd (at Clifton Hill), 43.089112°, -79.072917°. Great hidden cafeteria style eatery. Incredible views of the fall through the floor to ceiling glass windows. Reasonable prices for great tasting pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs. Restaurant is in the courtyard outside the Grand View (Maid of the Mist) gift shop.
• Mama Mia's Italian Eatery, 5845 Victoria Ave (near Clifton Hill), 43.091128°, -79.078599°, +1 905-354-7471. Italian, in case the name didn't give it away. Relatively inexpensive (for Niagara Falls) and the food is good. Spaghetti (vegetarian sauce option available), manicotti, cannelloni, homemade fettuccine, lasagne, eggplant (or chicken or veal) parmigiana, gnocchi, hamburgers. Lunch mains $8-$10, dinner mains $10-20, $22.95 gourmet dinner menu
• Michinoku Japanese Restaurant, 6100 Thorold Stone Road Unit #14, 43.114816°, -79.096769°, +1 905-356-3271. Mainly sushi and sashimi. Excellent quality and generally high reviews. Can get busy around dinner time, but is outside of normal tourist areas. $15-25 per person
• Napoli Ristorante and Pizzeria, 5484 Ferry St (at Stanley Ave), 43.089769°, -79.085158°, +1 905-356-3345. Homestyle Italian food made with fresh ingredients. Casual atmosphere.
• Secret Garden Restaurant, 5827 River Rd, 43.091035°, -79.070979°, +1 905-358-4588. Breakfast served until 11AM daily. Large outdoor patio with a view of the American Falls and the surrounding flower gardens. Varied menu includes: hamburgers, quiche Lorraine, soups, salads, pasta, fish of the day, fish and chips, steak, rack of lamb, prime rib of beef. Vegetarian and children's menus. Dinner entrées $10-30
• Suisha Gardens, 5701 Lewis Ave, 43.092995°, -79.080892°, +1 905-354-1500. Tu-Su (closed M) 5PM-10PM. Very pleasant Japanese restaurant. They cook, Teppanyaki-style, at your table. It's some tasty stuff and for what you get, the price is reasonable. The building looks old and run-down from the outside but when you enter, it's like walking into a small pocket of Japan. Sushi bar. Take-out available. Reservations recommended. Teppanyaki set menus $16-$40
• Taco N' Tequila, 5355 Ferry St (5 min walk from Clifton Hill), 43.089811°, -79.082566°, +1 905-371-8255. Simple, yet good, Mexican fare and home of the 45 oz. margaritas.
• Yukiguni, 5980 Fallsview Blvd, 43.088007°, -79.083034°, +1 905-354-4440. Daily noon-11PM. "Yukiguni" means "snow country" in Japanese. Very good Japanese food. Loved by Japanese. Menu includes sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, tempura, and noodles. Mains $10-18

Splurge

• Buchanans Steak and Seafood (Doubletree Fallsview Hotel), 6039 Stanely Ave (atrium level inside the Doubletree hotel), 43.087387°, -79.084563°, +1 905-353-4111. Daily until 9PM. Casual fine dining, regional cuisine. VQA Award of excellence wine list, live entertainment select Fridays, call for details. Steaks, chops & seafood in a Grand Lodge atmosphere. AAA/CAA approved.
• CopaCabana Brazilian Steak House, 6671 Fallsview Blvd (at Main St), 43.079836°, -79.083160°, +1 905-354-8775. A Brazilian BBQ restaurant, where you get all-you-can-eat servings of grilled steak, pork, chicken, lamb, sausage, etc. Outdoor patio. Samba music and dancers on Friday and Saturday nights. Very busy, and there can be a long wait for tables. $36
• The Keg Steakhouse + Bar (Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview), 6700 Fallsview Blvd, 9th floor, 43.079588°, -79.082147°, +1 905-374-5170. Su-Th noon-11:30PM, F Sa noon-midnight. From the ninth floor, it affords one views of Niagara Falls from virtually every table. The dining room has a warm atmosphere typically of the chain; booths with heavy Oak tables and a large stone fireplace. There is plenty of tiered seating available, allowing each guest a view of the famous waterfalls.
• Milestones on the Falls (Fallsview Restaurant), 6755 Fallsview Blvd (inside the Marriott Gateway), 43.077538°, -79.082904°, +1 905-358-4720. 11:30AM to 11PM. Milestones Niagara Falls Restaurant directly overlooks the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Offering select local, Canadian, and International wines at a Fallsview full service bar. Located on the second floor of the Niagara Falls Gateway on the Falls Hotel. Book a wine tasting or group event. Free parking for Milestones guests.
• The Revolving Restaurant at Skylon Tower, 5200 Robinson St, 43.085163°, -79.079700°. Enjoy fine dining at the revolving restaurant near the top of the Skylon Tower or buffet dining at the Summit Suite. Enjoy lunch or dinner, desserts as well as fine wines with free access to the observation deck. The view is one of a kind and the service is impeccable.
• Terrapin Grille Niagara Falls Restaurant, 6740 Fallsview Blvd (inside the Marriott Fallsview), 43.078387°, -79.082101°, +1 905-357-7300. 6:30AM to 9PM. Fallsview dining at its peak, presented by Chef Ron Kneabone. Wine, cocktails, beer and more available on two floors overlooking Niagara Falls. The Terrapin Bar and Lobby Lounge also cater to the sports fans offering local games during your visit. Private rooms available for groups. Luxury dining with quality ingredients and professional service. Free valet parking.
• Watermark Restaurant, 6361 Fallsview Blvd (in the Hilton Hotel), 43.082500°, -79.083227°, +1 905-353-7138. Go for a drink at the martini bar during one of the fireworks shows. It offers an amazing Falls view, great for a romantic gesture or a dramatic proposal.

Drink

The legal drinking age in Ontario is 19.

• Spicy Olive, 5026 Centre St, 43.092375°, -79.077017°, +1 905-371-2323. Spicy Olive serves Italian food while providing live entertainment and bands in Niagara Falls. Part of the Centre Street Shuffle, a series of bars frequented by pub crawls and other group events.

Wineries and breweries

• Lundy Manor Wine Cellars, 9941 Lundy's Ln, 43.086049°, -79.167759°, +1 905-354-6999. Tastings Th-Su 11AM-6PM. The only estate winery within Niagara Falls. 2019-12-02
• Monastery Cellars, 7020 Stanley Ave (Niagara Falls Transit bus 112; about 1KM from falls), 43.073971°, -79.082822°, +1 905-933-5972, tours@monasterycellars.com. Wine shop: Daily Apr-Oct 9AM-5PM, Nov-Mar 10AM-5PM, closed Dec.25&26, Jan.1, Easter Sunday. The wine shop is in a large monastery building constructed in 1894. Ice wine is available. Wine tours can be booked via email. 2019-12-02
• Niagara Brewing Company, 4915-A Clifton Hill, 43.091042°, -79.073541°, +1 905-374-5247. Su-Th noon-10PM, F noon-midnight, Sa 11AM-1AM. Beer made with local ingredients; restaurant available. 2019-12-02

Winery tours

Niagara Penninsula is Ontario's best-known wine producing region. Its famous ice wines are processed in freezing temperatures in very early morning hours and only with "approved" grapes, producing a thick and sweet wine much like the muscats and ports, but without the afterbite.

• Brewery & Distillery Tours Niagara, 7091 Regional Rd 57, 43.11504°, -79.11563°, +1 833-238-6877, info@brewerydistillerytoursniagara.com. 7AM-11PM. 2019-12-02
• Niagara Vintage Wine Tours, 2205 Mewburn Rd, 43.08701°, -79.11975°, +1 866-628-5428. 2019-12-02

Sleep

Prices posted are for high season (May–October).

Numerous hotels offer a room with a view of the Falls; check with the hotel when booking and specify that you want a full fallsview room when you book, or you may be given a room with only a partial view. If getting the 'perfect' room is important to you, book through the hotel directly as opposed to on-line or via their world-wide reservations number.

In addition to sales tax, a $2 per night Municipal Accommodation Tax is included to the hotel bill. Operators may also levy a Mandatory Charge or Resort Fee which varies from property to property but should be clearly disclosed when you book.

Budget

• A1-Motel, 7895 Lundys Ln, 43.089232°, -79.129646°, +1 905-354-6038. From $39
• Skyline Inn Niagara Falls, 4800 Bender Hill, 43.093841°, -79.072069°, +1 905-374-4444. Features oversized family rooms that fit up to 6 people in one room. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is connected to the hotel via the skywalk. Family Movie Night plays every night in the main courtyard.

Mid-range

• Courtyard By Marriott Niagara Falls, 5950 Victoria Ave, 43.089214°, -79.080214°, +1 905-358-3083. In the centre of the Clifton Hill tourist district, it has 258 guest rooms, indoor and outdoor pools and the Keg Steakhouse & Bar. On-site parking.
• Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls - Fallsview Hotel, 5685 Falls Ave, 43.091933°, -79.071476°, +1 905-374-4444. Has an old world Victorian style and design. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is directly connected to the hotel. Indoor dining available at its Fallsview Rainbowroom Restaurant.
• Days Inn by Wyndham, 4 area locations. 2-star hotels.
  • Days Inn – Fallsview, 6519 Stanley Ave (1 block away from the Fallsview Casino and the falls), 43.080245°, -79.085066°.
  • Days Inn – Centre Street, 5068 Centre St (1 1/2 blocks north of Clifton Hill), 43.092896°, -79.078191°, +1 905-357-2550. Free Wi-fi. Complimentary breakfast is not too good but inexpensive rates. Swimming pool and hot tub on premises. Very clean hotel, staff is also incredibly helpful and friendly.
  • Days Inn – Near the Falls, 5943 Victoria Ave, 43.090056°, -79.080574°, +1 905-374-3333. 2019-11-08
  • Days Inn – Lundys Lane, 7280 Lundy's Ln (near QEW), 43.088865°, -79.117322°, +1 905-358-3621. 2019-11-08
• Quality Inn, 5234 Ferry St, 43.089°, -79.081°, +1 905-374-7771. Price includes continental breakfast, local calls, cable TV. $100+
• Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview, 6733 Fallsview Boulevard, 43.078545°, -79.083170°. It has rooms and suites with spectacular views of Horseshoe Falls and features many family, romantic, and vacation packages. From $149 2019-12-17
• Ramada Hotel by Wyndham Niagara Falls Fallsview, 6045 Stanley Ave (in the Fallsview district), 43.087295°, -79.085214°, +1 905-374-4142.
• Redwood Bed & Breakfast, 5227 River Rd, 43.098671°, -79.065905°, +1 905-358-1990. Two-night minimum stay, $129-159
• Rodeway Inn Fallsview, 6663 Stanley Ave (Drive South on Stanley until Dunn.), 43.078759°, -79.085000°, +1 905-354-2322. Clean and well-kept hotel. Very reasonable breakfast restaurant on site ($5-10 per person for a large breakfast with coffee). $100
• Howard Johnson by the Falls (Hojo by the Falls), 5905 Victoria Ave (in the Clifton Hill district), 43.090558°, -79.079501°, +1 905-357-4040, info@hojobythefalls.com. Access to Niagara Falls WEGO bus system directly outside hotel. Double, Queen and King Rooms available. Indoor and outdoor pool on-site. 2016-06-08

Splurge

• Doubletree Resort Lodge & Spa Fallsview, 6039 Fallsview Blvd, 43.087106°, -79.084116°, +1 905-358-3817. Five Lakes Aveda day spa (PDF). Indoor lap pool and family pool, whirlpool, fitness room, seasonal outdoor hot tub and garden sun deck. Spacious guest rooms, two room suites and premium rooms with two-person whirlpool tubs. Choose a view of the city, river or American Falls. 365 m (400 yd) to Fallsview Casino Resort.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel, 6700 Fallsview Blvd, 43.079681°, -79.082351°, +1 905-356-3600. The hotel towers 42 storeys over the brink of Niagara Falls - and is 100 yards from the water's edge. It's in the Fallsview Tourist District – beside the Niagara Fallsview Casino.
• Four Points by Sheraton Niagara Falls - Fallsview, 6455 Fallsview Blvd, 43.081763°, -79.082986°, +1 905-357-5200. Across the street from the Fallsview Casino. This hotel features Fallsview rooms and Whirlpool rooms. Complete fitness center including indoor waterfall swimming pool. Event, meeting and conference facilities, valet parking.
• Great Wolf Lodge, 3950 Victoria Ave, 43.116528°, -79.071176°, +1 905-354-4888. There is a WEGO bus stop near here. Family-oriented with rooms that feature "kid cabins" which provide a bit of privacy for the adults. Large indoor waterpark, spa, restaurant and cafe.
• Hilton Hotel and Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview, 6361 Fallsview Blvd, 43.082618°, -79.083272°, +1 905-354-7887. City or Fallsview rooms decorated in classic resort style. It has a 53-storey, 500-room all-suite tower, featuring 2 restaurants. Attached to the Fallsview Casino through an adjacent walkway.
• Lion's Head Bed & Breakfast, 5239 River Rd, 43.098476°, -79.066014°, +1 905-374-1681. Historic Edwardian home overlooking the Niagara Gorge. Three-course breakfasts. $145-225
• Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel & Spa, 6740 Fallsview Blvd, 43.078530°, -79.082142°, +1 905-357-7300, reserv@niagarafallsmarriott.com. Terrapin Grille Niagara Falls Restaurant and full-service spa on premises.
• Marriott Niagara Falls on the Falls Hotel & Conference Centre, 6755 Fallsview Blvd, 43.077414°, -79.082953°, +1 905-374-1077, reserv@niagarafallsmarriott.com. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Milestones Niagara Falls Restaurant and conference centre. It's in the Fallsview Tourist district on premises. Self-parking at $29/night
• The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls, 6546 Fallsview Blvd (adjacent to the Fallsview Casino Resort), 43.080330°, -79.081967°. The closest hotel to the falls, it is 21 storeys tall and has a completely un-obstructed view of the falls.
• Sheraton on the Falls Hotel, 5875 Falls Ave, 43.0908°, -79.0726°, +1 905-374-4445. The rooms at the front of the hotel offer amazing views of the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Indoor and outdoor pools. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is connected to the hotel. Some rooms with fireplace and jacuzzi. Features a 25-m (80-ft) buffet table at its Fallsview Restaurant.

Go next

• Niagara-on-the-Lake is a pretty, historic town located about 20 minutes north of Niagara Falls. Each summer it hosts the Shaw Festival, featuring the works of George Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries. There are also a number of wineries in the area that you can visit. WEGO Transit runs a shuttle service to Niagara-on-the-Lake from the Floral Clock seasonally (approximately May to October).
• A short trip over the Niagara River via the Rainbow Bridge, Niagara Falls, New York is a more low-key affair. The centrepiece of the American side is Niagara Falls State Park, a quiet patch of well-manicured greenery where you'll find the Cave of the Winds, which takes you behind the falls down a series of wooden staircases. There are also hiking trails and an observation deck.
• Hamilton (Ontario)
• Toronto
• Waterloo Region

Related: Niagara Falls (New York)