Top 9 Things to Do in Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls in Canada is one of the country’s most famous attractions, but what you might not realize until you arrive is that there is a lot more to see apart from the amazing waterfalls. The ethereal beauty of the raging torrent of water is a huge draw, but the town is a thriving tourist destination for people of all ages. It’s also a happy honeymoon destination and if you are planning to get hitched this year, you could combine a trip to the town with your honeymoon. So what are the best attractions in his iconic town?
1. Niagara Falls
Not surprisingly, the Falls are the top attraction for everyone. It isn’t the tallest waterfall in the world, but for sheer volume of water, it is hard to beat. No matter what the season, Niagara Falls is always spectacular, but in winter, if the temperatures are cold enough, the edges of the falls freeze and it is beautiful. Be careful, however, because the walkways can be slippery!
2. Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory
The Butterfly Conservatory is located in the grounds of the Botanical Gardens. There are more than 2,000 species of tropical butterflies fluttering amongst the tropical plants and flowers. Learn more about the lifecycle of a butterfly as you meander along your self-guided tour. It’s the perfect attraction for young children.
3. Niagara Glen Nature Reserve
The Niagara Glen is a beauty spot within the Great Gorge. There are 4km of trails winding through the forest, which you can explore at leisure. The reserve overlooks the Niagara River Whirlpool, which is an amazing natural phenomenon where the fast-flowing river water is forced into a tightly spinning maelstrom of white water. There are lots of great sights to see along the trails, but you do need to be reasonably fit to enjoy this attraction.
4. Niagara SkyWheel
The Niagara SkyWheel at Clifton Hill will give you the very best views of the area. At 53 meters tall, this is the largest observation wheel in Canada. It is a unique sightseeing opportunity, so make sure you take your camera along for the ride. A trip on the SkyWheel lasts around ten minutes, but no matter what the weather is outside, you will be nice and comfortable inside your gondola.
5. Bird Kingdom
The Bird Kingdom is very popular with families. You can get up close and personal with birds from all over the world. There is also a visitor feeding room, where you are given a cup of nectar to encourage the birds to come and feed. It is a wonderful place and little kids will be mesmerized at the sight of so many exotic birds at such close proximity.
6. White Water Walk
The White Water Walk takes you along a stretch of boardwalk to two observation areas right at the edge of the fast-flowing Niagara River. It is a great place to visit if you want to fully appreciate the full force of the river – once the water reaches the Whirlpool section, it is travelling at an incredible 48km/hr. Take your time here and enjoy the sense that nature is a force truly to be reckoned with.
7. Queen Victoria Park
Queen Victoria Park is located in the heart of Niagara Falls, right at the foot of Clifton Hill. The park is a beautiful, relaxing place to spend a few hours on a warm day. There is a rock garden, a hybrid tea rose garden, and some magnificent magnolia trees. Every season, the floral displays change, so in spring you’ll see acres of daffodils and in the fall, lots of Chrysanthemums and kale. In the summer, you can take a ride on a horse and carriage.
8. Skylon Tower
The Skylon Tower rises high about the famous Falls. There are indoor and outdoor observation decks, so you can enjoy some amazing views; on a clear day, you can see as far as New York and Toronto. Step into the elevator at the bottom of the tower and it only takes 52 seconds to reach the top. If you get hungry while you are up there, don’t panic because there are two levels of fine dining, including the famous revolving restaurant.
9. Journey Behind the Falls
This is your opportunity to stand behind the mist and feel the mighty falls tumbling down in front of your face. This awesome experience is accessible via the Table Rock Welcome Centre.
Once you have exhausted every sightseeing opportunity in Niagara Falls, give your feet a rest and slake your thirst with some of the local craft beers.
