Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting In 2024? Things To Do & Reasons To Visit
Wondering If Niagara Falls Is Worth Visiting In 2024?
If you are wondering if Niagara Falls is worth visiting and if you should plan a trip to it, this blog post will help you decide.
Discover the must-see attractions, where to eat, and where to stay as well as the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
After reading this blog post, you will have a better idea of whether or not Niagara Falls is going to be a good destination for your next vacation.
I have had the opportunity to visit Niagara Falls on numerous occasions in the past and will share with you all of my knowledge and experience.
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Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting In 2024?
Niagara Falls is undoubtedly worth visiting for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and captivating attractions.
As one of the world’s most famous waterfalls, it offers a mesmerizing spectacle of powerful cascades and misty surroundings.
The sheer magnitude and grandeur of Niagara Falls make it an iconic destination that attracts millions of visitors each year.
Beyond its breathtaking views, Niagara Falls offers a range of activities and experiences to enjoy such as the Maid of the Mist, the Journey Behind the Falls, etc.
However, Niagara Falls is not only about the falls.
The surrounding area offers a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment venues, casinos, and a range of dining and shopping options.
Whether you visit during the day or at night when the falls are beautifully illuminated, the experience of witnessing the power of Niagara Falls is truly unforgettable.
The sheer magnitude of the falls, combined with the surrounding attractions and activities, makes it a destination that appeals to travelers of all ages and interests.
Overall, Niagara Falls is absolutely worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty, thrilling experiences, and lively atmosphere.
Keep in mind
The Niagara River serves as an international border between the United States and Canada.
The American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls are situated in Niagara Falls (city), New York (state), and belong to the United States.
Across the river, you’ll find the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, located in Niagara Falls (city), Ontario (province).
As a result, both countries share this natural wonder.
The picture below explains what I mean.
In this blog post, we will focus on the Canadian Side only.
Here is a video of me explaining the picture above in person.
What Is So Special About Niagara Falls?
Niagara Falls is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and awe-inspiring natural power – its sheer magnitude and grandeur.
The falls consist of three distinct sections: the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls (see picture above).
The cascading water, thundering roar, and misty atmosphere create a mesmerizing spectacle that leaves visitors in awe.
Additionally, the surrounding area offers various attractions, entertainment options, and scenic landscapes, making Niagara Falls a captivating destination for people of all ages.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Niagara Falls?
The peak tourist season is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and the falls are surrounded by lush greenery.
This is an ideal time for boat tours and outdoor activities. However, it is also the busiest time, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
For a more tranquil experience with fewer tourists, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October).
The weather is generally mild, and you can enjoy pleasant temperatures.
Springtime offers the chance to witness the falls surrounded by blooming flowers, while autumn showcases the stunning colors of fall foliage.
Winter (November to March) is a unique time to visit if you don’t mind colder temperatures.
The falls are transformed into a winter wonderland, with ice formations and snow.
Also, winter brings the opportunity to enjoy activities like ice skating and winter festivals as well as the holiday spirit.
If you want to see the falls frozen, your best chances are if you visit in January and February.
Personally, I recommend going in the summer months, because the winter is extremely cold.
What To Do In Niagara Falls?
Here are some of the main things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada.
1. The Falls
If you want the best view of the falls, then you will need to be on the Canadian side.
I’ve had the chance to see the falls from both sides and you get different vantage points.
However, if you don’t have a lot of time, definitely visit the Canadian side.
Niagara Falls is formed by the Niagara River, which connects Lake Erie to Lake Ontario.
The American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are around 56 meters (183 feet) in height.
While the Canadian Horseshoe Falls reaches an impressive 57 meters (187 feet) in height.
The combined flow rate of the falls is staggering, with approximately 3,160 tons of water flowing over the falls every second.
Niagara Falls is not only a natural wonder but also a significant source of hydroelectric power.
Several hydroelectric power plants harness the power of the falls to generate electricity for the surrounding areas.
The falls were formed during the last ice age when glaciers receded and carved out the Niagara River, which eventually led to the creation of the falls.
In addition, Niagara Falls has been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and musicians throughout history.
It has been featured in numerous paintings, photographs, poems, songs, movies, etc.
🎥 Here are two more videos of the falls: Niagara Falls – American Falls
Niagara Falls – Canadian Horseshoe Falls
2. The Maid of the Mist/The Hornblower
The Maid of the Mist and the Hornblower are boat tours, which are essentially identical to each other.
The only difference is that the Maid of the Mist operates from the US side and the Hornblower operates from the Canadian side.
This attraction is a must!!
The Maid of the Mist has been operating since 1885 and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in North America.
The tour begins at the base of the American Falls, where passengers board the iconic boat.
It navigates through the waters of the Niagara River, taking passengers to the edge of the thundering Horseshoe Falls.
As the boat approaches the falls, passengers are enveloped in mist and the sheer power and magnificence of the cascading water.
Don’t worry they will give you a raincoat, that you get to keep!
It is a truly unforgettable experience that provides a unique vantage point of Niagara Falls.
The Hornblower offers the exact same experience but you board the boat on the Canadian side.
Given the popularity of those boat cruises, particularly during the peak season, I would recommend making advance reservations to secure your spot.
👉 If you are coming from the United States and want to do the Maid of the Mist and add on a few more activities, check out this tour: Niagara, USA: Maid of the Mist and Adventure Walking Tour
👉 If you are in Canada and want to do something similar, there is this option: Niagara Falls, Canada: Walking Tour with Cruise & the Falls
3. Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill is a famous entertainment area located in Niagara Falls, Canada.
It is known for its lively atmosphere and numerous attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Clifton Hill offers a wide range of entertainment options, including small amusement parks, museums, arcades, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
Some of the notable attractions on Clifton Hill include Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, Mystic Maze of Mirrors (this was a fun one), Guinness World of Records, The House of Frankenstein, etc.
With its bustling energy and entertainment options, Clifton Hill offers a fun-filled experience for visitors of all ages.
🎥 Take a look at this video that I took of Niagara Falls – Clifton Hill
There are several mini-golf options in the area that provide a fun and entertaining experience.
One such place is Capitan Jack’s Fun Center, where we had the opportunity to play glow-in-the-dark mini-golf.
The unique setting adds an exciting twist to the game, creating a memorable and enjoyable activity.
Other activities to check out are the Upside Down House, Big Top Amazing Mirror & Laser Maze, Adventure City, etc.
They have a pass called ”Clifton Hill 6 Attraction Pass’‘ that includes six of the attractions on Clifton Hill for a combo price.
This pass will be useful if you want to spend a lot of time doing the attractions on Clifton Hill or if you have kids/teens who do.
However, keep in mind that many visitors find Clifton Hill to be touristy and kinda cheesy.
We like it and always do a few of the attractions there so it is up to you to decide how you feel about it.
4. Skylon Tower
The Skylon Tower is the iconic observation tower located in Niagara Falls.
Standing at a height of 775 feet (236 meters), it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area.
The tower features an observation deck and two restaurants and it is located close to the Horseshoe Falls.
One of them is the famous Revolving Dining Room Restaurant which offers high-end continental cuisine.
The second one is the Summit Suite Buffet Dining Room Restaurant which is the more budget-friendly option.
Did I mention that the first one rotates 360 degrees every hour?
The observation deck provides indoor and outdoor views of the beautiful falls and since it is close to it, it seems as if it is right underneath the tower.
Visitors can take a ride to the top of the tower in the “yellow bug” elevators and enjoy the spectacular views.
You would need about 40 mins to enjoy the observation deck of the Skylon Tower.
Also, there is a lot of parking available beside the tower.
👉 To grab your tickets for the Skylon Tower, check out this link: Niagara Falls, Canada: Skylon Tower Observation Deck Ticket
5. Niagara SkyWheel
The Niagara SkyWheel is a towering Ferris wheel standing at a height of 175 feet (53 meters).
It is situated close to Clifton Hill, so it is easily accessible (there is no way you would miss it).
The Ferris wheel offers riders breathtaking views of the city, the Niagara River, and the stunning Niagara Falls.
And yes! You can definitely see the falls from it.
The SkyWheel features fully enclosed gondolas that provide a comfortable and scenic experience, especially during the evening when the falls are illuminated.
Each gondola is climate-controlled, ensuring a pleasant ride regardless of the weather.
Niagara SkyWheel is open year-round and the ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes with optional audio narration.
The good news is that Niagara SkyWheel is open late at night, so if you are busy all day it can be one of the things you do at the end of the day.
The SkyWheel is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding natural beauty and cityscape.
👉 You can secure your ticket here: Niagara Falls, Canada: Niagara SkyWheel Ticket
6. Journey Behind the Falls
I absolutely love this attraction!!
Journey Behind the Falls is an exhilarating attraction that allows visitors to experience the majestic waterfall from a unique perspective.
It takes you on a journey through tunnels and observation decks located behind the cascading waters of the Horseshoe Falls.
Take an elevator from the walking area above (called Table Rock Center) to the base of the falls (need to descend 125 feet). The elevator is inside the bedrock.
A highlight of the experience is reaching the observation deck situated at the base of the falls (see below).
Where you can feel the mist on your face and marvel at the sheer force of the water as it crashes down.
Once you check out the terrace, you continue walking in the tunnels (2 of them which are 130 years old) which are also in the bedrock that goes behind the falls.
The tour is self-guided and the attraction is open year-round.
Also, the whole journey behind the falls takes approximately 45 minutes.
However, you don’t go all the way around the Horseshoe Falls, you can only go behind a small portion of it but even that is a great experience.
There are small windows along the tunnels and one bigger opening.
From them, you can see the water and hear the vibrations and loud noise coming from the immense power of Niagara Falls.
👉 To prebook your ticket you can click here: Niagara Falls, Canada: Journey Behind the Falls Entry Ticket
Where To Eat In Niagara Falls, Canada?
Niagara Falls offers numerous dining options to please every palate.
Most of them are situated around Clifton Hill as that is the main area or inside the hotels.
Breakfast
For breakfast, I suggest going to one of the IHOP restaurants.
There are three locations available, including a new one on Clifton Hill.
Their pancakes are the best!
Alternatively, if you’d like to experience a Canadian breakfast, Tim Hortons is a great choice.
It’s similar to the American Dunkin Donuts and offers convenient grab-and-go options.
I recommend trying their Farmer’s Wrap and pairing it with a cup of Dark Roast coffee.
In the summer months, their cold brews and iced coffees are perfect for refreshing mornings.
A popular summer drink is the Ice Capp but I find it extremely sweet.
🦄 Are you wondering if tap water is safe to drink in Niagara Falls, check out this blog post:
Is Tap Water Safe To Drink At The Hotels In Niagara Falls, Canada?
Lunch and Dinner
There are several noteworthy restaurants to try in Niagara Falls.
For a satisfying meal, consider visiting Boston Pizza, known for its delicious pizzas and casual dining atmosphere.
Another excellent choice is The Keg Steakhouse and Bar, where you can indulge in some mouthwatering steaks.
If you’re looking for a unique and immersive dining experience, make sure to visit The Rainforest Café, particularly if you’re traveling with kids.
This food chain transports you to a captivating rainforest setting, complete with moving and animated mechanical animals that bring the environment to life.
🎥 Below are three videos from there:
Rainforest Cafe – Snake and Butterfly
Rainforest Cafe – Elephants
and
Rainforest Cafe – Eel and Shark
And for all of you who are obsessed with Hard Rock Cafe, yes there is one in Niagara Falls, Canada!
Kelsey’s Original Roadhouse is a typical American food restaurant that has live music on some nights.
A little further down the road, specifically on Victoria Avenue, you’ll come across a delightful eatery called Antica Pizzeria & Ristorante.
They serve delicious pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Also, a different steak restaurant is Outback Steakhouse, which is located on Victoria Avenue as well.
Another recommendation is Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill, where we had a pleasant lunch stop and both enjoyed our meals.
These restaurants, situated beyond the bustling Clifton Hill area, are typically less crowded, more affordable, and often offer daily specials on both food and drinks.
In addition, along Victoria Avenue, you’ll find plenty of affordable souvenir and trinket shops, making it a great spot to enjoy dinner and indulge in some shopping.
Where To Stay In Niagara Falls, Canada?
Niagara Falls offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.
For those looking for an upscale experience, the luxurious hotel chains with casinos provide an extravagant setting with top-notch amenities.
However, it’s important to note that these options can be quite expensive, especially for longer stays.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for more affordable accommodations, there are several basic inns and budget-friendly hotels available.
They provide comfortable and convenient stays without breaking the bank.
Both suggestions are located in Canada!
Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa (Splurge Option)
If this is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience Niagara Falls and you want to splurge, the Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa is a good option.
This hotel overlooks the Horseshoe Falls providing stunning views.
- Excellent location – right beside the Horseshoe Falls
- Perfect for a romantic getaway/celebration
- The hotel has a boutique spa and wellness facility
- Also, a swimming pool and a gym are available
👉 Check availability for your dates: Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa
Travelodge by Wyndham Niagara Falls Fallsview (Budget Option)
We have stayed at the Travelodge twice and had no complaints.
It is an unassuming and reasonably priced lodge that is not too far from the main attractions.
There is a second Travelodge located on Cliffton Hills as well which is even more centrally located but it is a bit more expensive.
Keep in mind that you can’t actually see the falls from the hotel (it is on the Niagara River, after the falls), but it is close.
- 10 min walk to Cliffton Hill, 15 min walk to the falls, and 1 min to the Rainbow Bridge (you can cross by walking or car to the United States)
- Also, there is an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna
- Free WiFi is available in all of the rooms
- Quieter location but is still close to the attractions
👉 Check availability for your dates: Travelodge by Wyndham Niagara Falls Fallsview
🦄 For more hotel ideas, check out this blog post:
10 Niagara Falls Hotels That Overlook The Falls (Canadian Side)
🦄 If you are in Ontario and are looking to see some other epic things, check out these blog posts:
Is Ottawa Worth Visiting? Best Places & Things To Do
10 Things You Must See In Ottawa, Canada
7 Best Ottawa Bike Tours
FAQs About Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?
Below you will find some of the most frequently asked questions about is Niagara Falls worth visiting.
Which side of Niagara Falls is better?
If it is your first visit to Niagara Falls, you should go to the Canadian side as that offers better views.
The Canadian side provides panoramic views of all three falls, including the iconic Horseshoe Falls.
What currency is accepted in Niagara Falls?
The currency accepted in Niagara Falls depends on which side you are visiting.
In the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, the official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD).
On the other hand, if you are on the American side of Niagara Falls, the currency used is the United States Dollar (USD).
In Canada, they might accept American dollars depending on the place.
However, on the American side, they rarely accept Canadian dollars because it is worth less than the American.
Credit cards are widely accepted on both sides.
Do I need my passport to cross between Canada and the United States?
Yes, you will need a valid passport to cross between Canada and the United States.
The border between the two countries is an international border, and border control authorities require all travelers to present a valid passport or other approved travel documents for entry and re-entry.
In addition, car passengers as well as pedestrians that go over the Rainbow Bridge, are required to carry their passports.
Sometimes there is a long line up for cars to pass the border (weekends, holidays, etc); passing on foot is usually faster.
How much time should I spend in Niagara Falls?
For a quick visit to see only the falls and take some photos, a few hours can be sufficient.
However, if you want to explore the other attractions, take boat cruises, visit museums, or engage in other activities, it’s recommended to allocate at least two days to fully experience Niagara Falls.
This will allow you to enjoy the various attractions at a relaxed pace and make the most of your visit.
In addition, if you have more time, you can cross the border and check out the falls from the American side as well.
How do you get around Niagara Falls?
All of the above-mentioned attractions are conveniently located in close proximity to each other, making it easy to explore on foot.
Therefore, there is no need for transportation like buses or cars, as walking is sufficient to reach these attractions.
Also, parking can be hard to find in busy areas and will be expensive.
It’s important to note that some portions of the walk may involve uphill sections, so be prepared for a bit of a climb.
How far is Niagara Falls from Toronto?
Niagara Falls is located approximately 128 kilometers (80 miles) southwest of Toronto.
The driving distance between the two cities is usually around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route.
Therefore, it’s a popular day trip or weekend getaway destination for those visiting or living in Toronto.
🦄 If you are looking to check out Toronto as well, here are some helpful blog posts:
Fun Activities To Do In Toronto For Adults (From A Local)
12 Best Toronto Hotels By CN Tower
Complete Guide To Visiting Casa Loma, Toronto (From A Local)
Does It Snow In Toronto (From A Local)
Conclusion: Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting In 2024?
In conclusion, Niagara Falls is undoubtedly worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty and an array of exciting attractions.
Beyond the falls, there are numerous activities to enjoy, such as boat cruises, observation towers, and adventure experiences like the Maid of the Mist or Journey Behind the Falls.
In addition, the surrounding areas offer many entertainment options, including Clifton Hill’s entertainment district as well as many casinos.
With a variety of accommodations, dining options, and shopping opportunities, Niagara Falls caters to all budgets and preferences.
So, pack your bags and prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty and exhilarating experiences that await at Niagara Falls.
