Straddling the border between Canada and the US, it’s almost impossible to see everything Niagara Falls has to offer in just one visit. There is, however, a solution: see these incredible waterfalls by air. Hands-down one of the best things to do in Niagara Falls is to take a helicopter ride above them. With a perspective unlike any other, get up-close-and-personal to the three massive waterfalls as your soar above these turbulent rapids. With 10-minute flights starting from about US$100, while it might stretch the budget a little, the thrill of zooming in-and-around is definitely worth it.
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NIAGARA FALLS
TRAVEL IN NIAGARA FALLS
A natural division between Canada and the US, the massive Niagara Falls are a must-see for visitors to both countries. Located on the Niagara River between the states of Ontario and New York, the Niagara Falls are a series of three distinct waterfalls that weave their way around the river. Made up of the American Falls, the Canadian Horseshoe Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, marvel at the might and beauty of these natural wonders.
There are heaps of different ways to experience the Niagara Falls, depending on your budget and sense of adventure. The classic way to get up-close-and-personal with the falls is on a River Cruise. This boat ride is unlike any other you’ve experienced before, edging as close to the break wake as humanly possible, so come prepared to get wet. Wearing either a yellow or red poncho that the park provides, you’ll seem like a local in no time.
Keep your ponchos on-hand if you’re keen to get even wetter. Take an elevator down to the level of the Niagara River to make your way towards the Cave of the Winds. This slippery pilgrimage up to the foot of the Bridal Veil Falls actually takes you behind the waterfall. But be warned: you’ll definitely emerge completely drenched.
For those wanting to add some adrenaline to their adventure, take a helicopter ride above the falls – or better yet, zip-line across them. This 670-metre trip from the heights of the Park’s Gorge to the Canadian observation deck will thrill you.
If you’re wanting to learn a little more about the local area, there are plenty of local museums that explain the history of Niagara Falls. Check out the Niagara Gorge Discovery Centre to discover the natural history of the site, as well as the Niagara Power Projects Visitor’s Centre, where you can learn about the projects that harness the hydro-energy generated by these mighty falls.
A thrilling journey into one of North America’s most amazing natural wonders, experience the best of the Niagara Falls Canada and the US.
FAST FACTS
Language: English
Currency: CA Dollar
Electricity: 110V
Visas: Click here to see if you need a visa to enter Canada.
Dialing Code: +1
Time Zone: (GMT -04:00)
ABOUT CONTIKI
From quick breaks to epic journeys, Contiki exists to connect young travellers with the time of their lives.
See more about ContikiTHINGS TO DO IN NIAGARA FALLS
Take a helicopter ride above the Niagara Falls
Zip-line to the falls
For adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies, there’s no better way to feel the thrill of Niagara Falls than to zip-line across them. Located at the bottom of a natural gorge and surrounded by lush green forests, the natural landscape of the Niagara Falls National Park has the perfect conditions for zip-lining. Hold your breath as your zoom straight down the gorge towards the base of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, gaining speed with every passing second. Ride down this 670-metre track towards the top of the observation deck. For beautiful scenery that will literally take your breath away, get excited to experience a zip-line tour of Niagara Falls.
Get the best view from the Skylon Tower observation deck
If you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Niagara Falls, put this one on your list. Take an exhilarating 52-second ride up to the observation deck of the Skylon Tower. Looking out over the Niagara Falls from a 158-metre height, this tower has the highest vantage point of the falls. From the observation deck, you’ll also be able to see the Great Gorge, the Niagara wine district and the Toronto and Buffalo skylines. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, grab a bite to eat at the Skylon Tower revolving Dining Room. With the best vistas in the park, make your way up the Skylon Tower.
Take a shower under the falls with a boat ride
Take a shower under the falls with a boat ride
For those who aren’t afraid to get a little wet, enjoy the Niagara Falls from an exhilarating perspective. Remember to pack your poncho when you jump on a Niagara Falls boat tour. Feel the watery mist begin to splash on your face as your ship edges closer and closer to the break of the falls. Get as close-as-possible all three of the park’s great waterfalls; the American Falls, the Canadian Horseshoe Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls. Feel energised as their wake washes over you on this 20-minute voyage. Our tip? Try to come on a clear day, as wind and rain can make this otherwise-awesome boat ride a little rocky!
Visit Cave of the Winds
Hidden behind the Bridal Veil Falls is one of the best walking tracks in the entire Niagara Falls National Park. Put on your poncho and take a self-guided tour up to the Cave of the Winds. Originally discovered in 1834 and named after Aeolus, the Greek god of the winds, walk to the Cave of the Winds to experience a unique vantage point from behind the mighty falls. To get here, take an elevator down to the level of the Niagara River at the base of the American Falls. Follow a series of redwood decks and platforms to walk right up to the base of the Bridal Veil Falls. You’ll definitely get soaked doing this, but the thrill is well worth it.
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TOP 5 MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES IN NIAGARA FALLS
When visiting Niagara Falls, take the chance to learn about the natural history of the area. The best way to understand the science behind this incredible natural wonder is to explore its many local museums. Here are our picks for five museums worth checking out in Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls Museum
Located close to the famous waterfalls, the Niagara Falls Museum is actually the oldest museum in all of Canada. What began as a place for Thomas Barnett to showcase his eclectic personal collection of historical artefacts, this museum was most famous for holding the mummy of Ramesses I before its return to Egypt. You’ll be surprised by what you find in this local history museum.
Niagara Power Projects Visitors Centre
With amazing views of the area’s landscapes, the Niagara Power Projects Visitor’s Centre offers both an interesting insight to the Falls’ energy-generation projects, as well as the opportunity to soak up its natural beauty. Learn about innovative renewable energy through immersive experiences at this interactive museum.
Niagara Aerospace Museum
In an old airport terminal at the Niagara Falls International Airport, you’ll find the Niagara Aerospace Museum. Located on the US side of Niagara Falls in New York State, this museum tells the history of New York’s aviation and aerospace programs. If you love aeroplanes or war history, this museum is for you.
Niagara Wax Museum of History
One of the quirkier museums in the area, discover the history of Niagara Falls at the Niagara Wax Museum. This unique history museum brings the stories of the local area to life through full-sized wax displays. Learn about some of the most important figures and events of the area at the Niagara Wax Museum of History.
Niagara Gorge Discovery Centre
If you’re keen on science, this museum is for you. Also known as the Schoellkopf Geological Museum, the Niagara Gorge Discovery Centre is located on the US side of Niagara Falls within Niagara Falls State Park. Since its opening in 1971, this natural history and geology museum has showcased the ancient rocks and minerals of the Niagara Falls area.
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FOOD IN NIAGARA FALLS
While most people will see the waterfalls and leave pretty soon after, why not stick around to enjoy Niagara Falls’ incredible food scene. From fresh, shucked oysters to seriously-sweet crepes, here are five awesome places to eat in Niagara Falls.
Burgers & Canadian Tap Beer
A classic North American meal, you can’t go past burgers and beers. The Taps of Queen Brewhouse & Grill is a great place to pick up both at Niagara Falls. Their beers are brewed using only filtered water, hops, malted barley, and yeast, and their burgers are made using fresh, local ingredients.
Best eaten at - Taps of Queen Brewhouse & Grill, 4680 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2L8, Canada
Best eaten at - Taps of Queen Brewhouse & Grill, 4680 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2L8, Canada
Poutine
Probably the best contribution Canada has made to the world of food, trying poutine should be on everyone’s Canadian to-do list. Quintessentially Quebecoise, poutine is a mound of fries covered in gravy and cheese curds. Dig into a serve at Smoke’s Poutinerie in Niagara Falls.
Best eaten at - Smoke's Poutinerie, 5869 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3L6, CanadaOysters
Seeing that it’s completely surrounded by water, you’d expect Niagara Falls to have a pretty good seafood scene. For some of the best in the area, head to Tide and Vine. This rustic oyster house offers a variety of cooked and fresh oysters that you’ll happily slurp All. Day. Long. Their seafood chowder and lobster profiteroles are also definitely worth trying.
Best eaten at - Tide and Vine Oyster House, 3491 Portage Rd, Niagara Falls, On, L2j 2k5, CanadaCrepes
Whether you’re feeling something sweet or something savoury, it’s always a good time for a crepe. A nod to nearby French-Canada, chow down on a ‘Niagara Falls’ crepe at the Paris Crepes Café. Stuffed with mixed berries, peaches, nutella and vanilla ice cream, it’ll leave you wanting seconds.
Best eaten at - Paris Crepe Café, 4613 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2L7, Canada
Best eaten at - Paris Crepe Café, 4613 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2L7, Canada
High Tea
Given the State of Ontario’s English heritage, it seems only right to experience a classic British tradition: High Tea. Featuring scones with Devonshire cream and cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches, the Queen Charlotte Tea Room puts on one heck of a spread. If you want the full experience, remember to give them the heads up by making a booking in advance.
Best eaten at - Queen Charlotte Tea Room, 5689 Main St, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 5Z3, Canada
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