When visiting the East Coast of Canada, you absolutely have to go see the Niagara Falls. Not only is it one of the natural wonders of the world but it is also the waterfall with the highest flow rate in North America!
Did you know that the Niagara Falls is actually composed of three waterfalls? The Horseshoe Falls which are on the border between the US and Canada and the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls which are both on the US side.
Keep reading to find out the 5 bucket list things to do while visiting Niagara Falls!
What side is best? The Canadian or American side?
I would definitely recommend visiting Niagara Falls from the Canadian side, let me tell you why! First of all, the view is way better as you get to see the Falls from the front. Also, the activities on the Canadian side are much more diverse! You can do ziplining, there are plenty of activities to do on Clifton Hill, go on top of the Skylon Tower to get a nice view, etc..
1. See the firework display
There is an amazing firework display that takes place in front of the Falls nearly every week (you need to do some research before you go as the schedule often changes). I heavily suggest you arrive there at least 30 minutes beforehand to secure a good spot as it’s best to have a view with no one in front of you. The Falls light up colourfully every evening anyways but having fireworks as well makes it so much more magical.
2. Do at least 2 fun activities on Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill is full of fun activities such as a Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, a Ferris wheel, an arcade, glow in the dark golf, etc… It is a busy street full of neon lights and definitely comparable to a small Las Vegas! After visiting the Niagara Falls during the day, you can spend time here shopping for souvenirs and having a fun time!
3. Take the Hornblower Cruise
The Hornblower tour boat is probably one of the most famous activities to do in Niagara Falls. The ride is about 30 mins and the ticket costs around 35$ per person. Everyone boarding the boat gets a free red raincoat to wear on the boat (it’s blue if you take the boat called The Maid of the Mist from the US side). You have the choice to either stay in the boat or go outside on the deck. There are 2 levels, I would recommend you go outside on the top level to get a better view of the Falls!
Other tips when going on the Hornblower cruise: Make sure to put all your valuables in your bag under the coat. If you want to take photos (which you totally should) make sure to protect your phone with a water-resistant case and don’t take out our expensive camera! The boat goes quite close to the Falls and you get very wet.
4. See a rainbow over the Falls
If you are visiting the Niagara Falls at the right time of day (around midday), chances are you’ll probably catch a rainbow! If you stay longer enough, you might be able to spot another one at the same time! Make sure to snap a bunch of shots of the double rainbow!
5. See the Niagara Falls from above
Seeing the Falls from ground level is impressive but how about seeing them from above? Here are 3 ways you can do so: First, you can go up the Skylon Tower. With its 230 meters in height and several observation decks, it’s a great way to see the Falls from above! The tickets are from 14-20$ each. Secondly, you could take a helicopter ride to see the Falls from an actual birds-eye view, of course, this is the most exclusive way to see the Falls so if you’re willing to pay extra for that then go for it! (the ride is around 150$ per person). And finally, the third way to see the Falls from above is by taking the Ferris wheel located on Clifton Hill! You get to do about 5 rounds and ticket are about 13$!
Of course, every way has its own advantages and disadvantages so it’s for you to choose which option suits you best!
You can get more info about Niagara Falls by visiting their official website here
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