Known as the Honeymoon Capital of the World, Niagara Falls is one of the most breathtaking destinations in North America. Nowadays, there’s so much more to see and do in and around Niagara Falls then just the Falls themselves. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your trip, so you can come home without regrets.
1) Visit the Falls on Both Sides of the Border
Niagara Falls is located on the border between the U.S. and Canada. The famous view of the Falls that can be seen in stock photos and on postcards is to be had on the Canadian side of Falls, but there’s a lot to be said for the American side, too. While the Falls are surrounded by a bustling community on the Canadian side, complete with grand hotels, botanic gardens, and midway attractions, the American side of the Falls is a state-protected park – the oldest in the country. Here, you can enjoy wooded hiking trails on Goat Island, as well as cliff-side paths that bring visitors within an arm’s length of the Falls.
2) Pack Rain Gear
This may go without saying, but you’re going to get wet when you visit the Falls. Whether you choose to a boat tour on the Maid of the Mist (in the U.S.) or the Hornblower Niagara Cruise (in Canada), or a walk through the Cave of the Winds or Journey Behind the Falls, you’re going to be well within splashing distance of the raging water. Bring rain ponchos, a waterproof bag for your electronics, and dry shoes and socks so you can change after your tour.
3) Research Accommodation in Advance
There are Niagara Falls hotels for every budget, especially on the Canadian side of the Falls, but it’s worth doing some research ahead of time to make sure you’re getting the most out of your accommodation. If, for example, you were hoping to camp in Niagara Falls State Park to save on accommodation, you may be disappointed to learn that there’s no camping at Niagara Falls State Park – you’ll have to drive about 25 minutes away to Four Mile Creek State Park for that. But, if you’re interested in hotel accommodation in Niagara Falls, Canada, it’s worth booking directly with a Fallside hotel to get the best views, and access to nearby downtown amenities like the Fallsview Indoor Water Park.
4) Don’t Miss Downtown
There are lots of great attractions in downtown Niagara Falls that you won’t want to miss during your visit. Whether you’re in the U.S. or Canada, you’ll find quirky bars and restaurants and, especially on the Canadian side, lots of kitschy fun. Hit up the Clifton Hills district where you can enjoy the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks, the Great Canadian Midway, year-round haunted houses, and no less than three mini-golf courses.
5) See the Countryside
The area around Niagara Falls is home to quaint Canadian small towns, historic sites, and hidden-gem vineyards. Take a few extra days to explore the surrounding countryside. Go to Old Fort Niagara on the American side of the border, or Fort George on the Canadian side, where you can learn about the roles both nations played in the War of 1812, see artillery and musket demonstrations, and learn more about the conditions under which soldiers lived and fought here. Don’t miss Niagara-on-the-Lake, a romantic lakeside town full of bed-and-breakfasts and home to some stunning lakeside views. If you like wine, you’ll find tiny vineyards dotted all over the countryside on both sides of the border. You’ll find that vineyards here are more welcoming, and less pretentious, than those in some more famous wine regions.
With all the attractions in and around Niagara Falls, you might find you need more than one trip to take it all in. Whether you’re interested in cheesy good times, touring North America’s most famous falls, or exploring sleepy towns and vineyards in the surrounding countryside, there’s something for you in the Niagara Falls area. Make your trip to Niagara Falls a good time for the whole family – or a romantic weekend getaway, whichever you prefer.