Best things to do in Niagara Falls

Admire Niagara Falls from a different vantage point with a visit to Journey Behind the Falls. Hidden behind the powerful waterfall, the tunnel offers several viewing platforms that give visitors a fresh perspective on the thunderous cascade. Be sure to wear a poncho or waterproof jacket on your visit, as you'll almost certainly get doused by heavy sprays of water. Reserve your tickets in advance, as the popular attraction can sell out.

Enter the world of colorful insects at Butterfly Conservatory, located just minutes from the world-famous waterfalls. Sheltering over 2,000 butterflies that fly freely through the lush vegetation, this modern insect zoo features a climate-controlled greenhouse, 200-seat theater, and a large gift shop. Most of the conservatory's butterflies come from farms in El Salvador, Costa Rica, Australia, and the Philippines. Special nets stretched along the conservatory's glass dome keep the fragile creatures from entangling and dying of hypothermia. Boost your chances that butterflies land on you by wearing brightly colored clothing, moving slowly, and dabbing some perfume just before entering.

A meal with a view awaits at Skylon Tower, featuring an observation deck and a revolving restaurant overlooking Niagara Falls. Located on the Canadian side of the falls, the 160 m (520 ft) tower features three external elevators that can whisk you to the top in just under a minute. The views from the outdoor and indoor decks alone merit a visit, though most tourists also choose to round-off their experience with a hearty meal at the onsite restaurant. The base of the tower contains several gift shops and an amusement arcade, making this attraction a good shopping/entertainment spot for families with kids.

Horseshoe Falls are the largest of the three waterfalls that constitute the Niagara Falls. The falls are not only a popular holiday spot, but also an abundant source of hydraulic power. If you wish to admire the scenery, take a walk along the waterfall, picnic in the free park, or take a ride in the cable car. Adventurous souls will appreciate boat cruises and ziplining to the falls.

One of North America's most impressive natural attractions, Niagara Falls Canada straddle the border between the United States and Canada, marking the point at which the eponymous river plummets over a prominent escarpment. Two cascades on the U.S. side and one on the Canadian combine to form the most powerful waterfalls in the world, harnessed to produce electricity using a generating system invented by famed scientist Nikola Tesla. Experience the sheer force of the water by taking a boat tour from the base of Horseshoe Falls, or climb to the top the observation tower for a bird's-eye view of the entire region.

Vistas worth a million dollars await at Niagara Fallsview Casino, a modern gaming complex offering over 3,000 slot machines and nearly 150 table games. Casual gamers can head to the jackpot machines--famous for having paid out some of the biggest prizes in Canadian casino history. More serious players with deeper pockets take advantage of VIP services and high-limit rooms. If gambling isn't your cup of tea, attend a show at the onsite ballroom, browse the various shops, relax at the spa, or play a few rounds at the golf course. Whatever you do, don't forget take in the views of the legendary waterfalls.

Offering priceless views of the famous falls, Niagara SkyWheel ranks among the world's largest observation wheels. The 53 m (175 ft) Ferris wheel provides bird's-eye views of the surrounding area from a climate-controlled gondola, ensuring a comfortable ride and plenty of chances to snap images of the iconic natural attraction. The ride lasts two revolutions (approximately ten minutes), while a recording explains each of the sights as they come into view. For another perspective on the famous landscape, ride the wheel at night. Check the website for discounts, combo tickets, and hours of operation.

Learn about both marine and land animals at Marineland, a well established park where you can observe orca and beluga whales from beneath the surface or pet and feed land dwellers like deer and elk. The site also features energetic dolphin shows as well as the thrills and spills of rollercoasters and carousels. You have opportunity to eat and refresh in the on-site cafe; be sure to bring your camera.

Marvel at the trillions of gallons of water powering their way along one of the widest stretches of white water in the world at White Water Walk. Travel down 70 m (229 ft) in an elevator, to a short tunnel leading to the water's edge. A 305 m (1/4 mi) boardwalk arm's length away from the natural phenomenon takes you to two observation points, both with views of the Class 6 whirlpool rapids, which rage ferociously at 48 km/h (30 mph). From here you will learn first-hand how the 410-million-year-old rock layers of the Niagara Gorge were slowly forged thanks to the sheer force of the water.

Bird Kingdom represents the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary. Discover hundreds of tropical birds as you explore the pathways throughout the multi-level rainforest. Meet friendly parrots and exotic animals at animal encounters. Explore the ruins of the night jungle that is home to curious owls, bats, and fascinating creatures. Lorikeet Landing provides an unforgettable experience where you may feed and interact with the playful lorikeet birds. This is an exciting adventure that is fun for all ages. This attraction is located a 5-minute walk from Niagara Falls and is open all year. Be sure to bring your camera as you encounter exotic birds and animals up close in their natural habitats.

A carnival-like atmosphere defines Clifton Hill, where you can head for a colorful night of fun and games. Explore a street filled with bright lights and attractions including a wax museum, haunted houses, giant video arcades, and a myriad of gift shops. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel to catch a glimpse of the falls, and when the sun goes down, experience the region's nightlife in the many restaurants and bars.

Slip down exhilarating water slides and ride swells in tidal wave pools at Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, a fun-filled excursion that kids will thoroughly enjoy. Children of all ages are catered for, from toddlers to teenagers, with both fast and easygoing slides. If you get hungry, there’s a cafe serving the usual theme park fare of hot dogs, fries, and so on. You can appreciate great views of the falls from the park.

Reif Estate Winery is known for its sophisticated blind tastings and a sensory wine garden. Ewald Reif founded the family winery in 1982. Take your time and walk around the large estate, paying special attention to the gardens of light foliage and flowers, carefully selected herbs, and aromatics such as coriander, oregano, and grapefruit mint. Notice the original 1870s coach house in the back of the Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling sections of the garden. Visit the large barrel room on your way to the private tasting rooms at the back. The shop offers a wide selection of red and white wines, mustards, dips, and accessories.

A guided wine-tasting tour of Canada's "Wine Belt" ensures an opportunity to sample Ontario's famous ice wine, witness the production process, and take home a bottle or two of the region finest vintages. You can experience the area by taking a scenic drive past rolling vineyards or by pedaling over quiet country trails, before stopping at several artisanal wineries for a wine-tasting tutorial. You can choose from shorter 40-minutes to 3-hour tours and full-day excursions, which can include a scenic boat cruise or a plane flight over Niagara Falls. Most tours are flexible in duration.