There is a popular jingle that has been featured in television and radio advertisements for years. For those who have heard it, the music will instantly return when you hear the words: “Niagara Falls, Ontario, it’s always a fun place to go! Seeing friends you miss. A great big kiss. Everyone loves…Marineland!”
Fortunately, for both the young and old alike, Niagara Falls offers much to enjoy—from the amusement of Marineland to the lights and sounds of Clifton Hill. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a full vacation, Niagara Falls has plenty of attractions to make your time memorable.
Starting with the falls themselves, Niagara Falls is one of the most picturesque places in the world. On average, the falls have 4 million cubic feet of water crossing over the edge every minute. The falls are the main attraction of this tourism hotspot, offering adventures such as the Maid of the Mist tours and The Journey Behind the Falls.
Located just 26 km from Buffalo, NY, and 69 km from Toronto, Ontario, Niagara Falls is cradled in a tourist’s haven.
While the site has been hailed as a honeymoon destination for decades, it is also a fantastic town to visit as a family. Some attractions that will appeal to kids of all ages include:
- Marineland is an amusement park with much more to offer than the typical fun park. Attractions include visits to see killer whales, the chance to pet beluga whales, dolphins, walruses, and sea lions, as well as fish, deer, bears, and more. Marineland also has fun rides for the whole family, with rides specifically for young children and others for the daredevils. Marineland’s Sky Screamer is the world’s highest triple tower ride, launching riders 137.2 meters up and down, traveling over 95 km/h.
- The Skylon Tower is an attraction for those who enjoy picturesque scenery and panoramic views. At 520 feet, the tower offers the highest view of the falls and allows tourists to see sites as far as Toronto on a clear day. Visit for the view, or enjoy a fabulous lunch or dinner experience.
- The Birds of the Lost Kingdom is the world’s largest indoor aviary. Open year-round, this two-time winner of Niagara’s Attraction of the Year Award is home to over 400 birds in its 50,000 square foot tropical forest.
- The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory boasts a variety of butterfly species in its 11,000 square foot facility.
- The IMAX Theatre Niagara has won the Attraction of the Year award three times, offering an immersive experience where you can see the falls like never before. Whether the weather is good or bad, the IMAX experience is one you won’t want to miss.
- Journey Behind the Falls: If you don’t mind getting a little wet, this is an experience like no other. Travel 150 feet behind the Horseshoe Falls and witness the sheer power of the falls up close.
- Ripley’s Believe it or Not! is a must-see attraction located on the main strip of Clifton Hill. This interactive attraction is fun for the whole family. Just across the street is Ripley’s 4D theatre—an experience you have to see to believe.
For the 19-and-older crowd, don’t miss Casino Niagara. With over 120 gaming tables and more than 3,000 slot machines, Casino Niagara promises hours of entertainment. For a more serene experience, the Botanical Gardens are sure to delight. With 100 acres of beauty, the gardens will appeal to all your senses.
Now that you’ve heard about some great attractions, the next question is: where will you sleep? This is both an easy and difficult question, as there are so many options to choose from. Accommodations range from comfortable, moderately priced hotels and motels to more upscale options with a falls view. You could also enjoy the comfort of home by staying in one of Niagara’s charming bed and breakfasts. For the outdoorsy type, consider staying in one of Niagara’s family-friendly campgrounds, located just a short drive from the falls. If you’re looking for something different, experience one of Niagara’s historic inns or stay with your family in a hotel featuring a waterpark and many other amenities.
Dining is another adventure in Niagara Falls. Craving a succulent steak or scrumptious seafood? Try one of Niagara’s finest restaurants, The Beef Baron. If you’re looking for something familiar, Niagara has a range of well-known restaurants like Planet Hollywood, Hard Rock Café, Applebee’s, Ruby Tuesday, and The Keg, all near Clifton Hill. Or experience cuisines from around the world: Japanese, Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Korean, British, and more can be enjoyed any night of the week in Niagara.
With rentals available, you can bike around town or enjoy hiking through the scenic trails. Niagara Falls is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts, fun-seekers, or anyone looking to kick back and relax.
Go once. Go again. Niagara is such an enjoyable place that you’ll discover something new every time you visit.
