Published on December 14, 2023 · Written by Zack Fenech
It’s home to Canada’s version of Las Vegas, and has many additional options for truly Canadian experiences.
Many people visiting Niagara Falls for the first time may get sucked in to many tourist traps that populate the main strip, with many missing gems like Niagara on the Lake for a truer experience of Southern Ontario.
Fortunately, I’ve lived in Toronto for most of my life, and have visited Niagara Falls at least 10 times. That means I have made every mistake in the book, so you don’t have to.
If you are planning a trip to Niagara Falls, explore it in the best way possible with this detailed guide below, and make the most of your next trip to this natural wonder. For more destinations in the country, check out our Canada travel guide.
Important Things to Know Before Visiting: Niagara Falls Travel Guide
Be sure to get travel insurance before your trip.
Getting to Niagara Falls from the USA: If you’re traveling from the United States, you can drive through Rainbow Bridge or fly to Niagara Falls International Airport in Buffalo, New York. You’ll have to pass through the Canada Border Services Agency. Use Skyscanner to find and compare the best flights.
Getting to Niagara Falls from Canada: If you’re traveling from Toronto, your best bet is to rent a car and drive, or take GO Transit, which has buses and trains connecting you from most major cities. Grab a bus or subway from Union Station.
Best Time to Visit: The summer months are considered peak season. Visiting in winter is possible – bundle up! – and the Christmas light displays are genuinely beautiful. Summer is significantly busier but warmer and more accessible.
Things to Do and Places to Visit in Niagara Falls, Canada
On the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, there are many things that you can do. Typically, most people visit for one day, sometimes two days and one night.
1. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls are two waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls (Canadian side) and Bridal Veil Falls (American side). The Canadian side offers many free observation decks. The falls can be admired during the day, or in the evening when they’re lit up in multicoloured lights. The Maid of the Mist boat tour takes you to the falls at water level. Scheduled fireworks happen on Canada Day, Christmas, and other occasions. The Niagara Skywheel and Clifton Hill offer amusement park fun, and Fallsview Casino runs all night.
2. Niagara On The Lake
Sadly overlooked by many tourists, Niagara on the Lake is an exceptional place to visit. It’s known for world-renowned wineries, distilleries, and breweries, and for a lot of Canada’s early history – including chocolatier Laura Secord’s home and the Fort George National Historic Site. The yearly Shaw Festival is one of the most renowned theatre festivals in North America. Cobblestone streets, preserved 19th-century buildings, and vineyard tasting tours round out the experience.
Food and Drink to Try in Niagara Falls, Canada
Wine
Trying wine in the Niagara Region is an absolute must. Be sure to try Ice Wine in the winter months – a sweet dessert wine made while grapes are still frozen on the vine.
Craft Beer
The Niagara region and Ontario are known for their craft beer scene. Many breweries offer unique takes on IPAs, porters, lagers, and ales.
Poutine
French fries covered in gravy and cheese curds, with versions ranging from Mexican to Meat Lovers to Vegan. Best served as a late-night eat with a cold beer.
Beavertails
Flat pieces of fried dough covered with toppings including Oreos and chocolate, apple and cinnamon, and Reese’s. Niagara has a dedicated Beavertail store.
Maple Syrup
A trip to Canada isn’t complete without some interaction with maple syrup. Get authentic maple syrup – once you taste the difference, you’ll never go back.
Buttertarts
A classic Canadian dessert made with pecans and butter in a delicious tart shell.
Final Thoughts: Visit Niagara Falls, Canada
For the best deals on places to stay, book hotels online ahead of your visit.
Niagara Falls, while incredibly touristy, is an excellent place to visit. Whether you’re going for the casino or a family vacation, Niagara Falls is a great place to enjoy a natural wonder and experience a true testament of Canadian culture.
FAQs about Niagara Falls Travel
What are the best times to visit Niagara Falls?
Niagara Falls is an all-season destination. If you’re not a fan of the cold, visit during the summer. For winter and Christmas activities, visiting in the winter months can be exceptional.
What are the must-see attractions in Niagara Falls?
Aside from the falls themselves, the best things to visit include Niagara on the Lake, the Butterfly Conservatory, and the wineries in the Niagara region.
Are there boat tours available to get up close to the falls?
Yes. Several boat tour options are available, with the most iconic being the Maid of the Mist tour.