Category: Niagara Falls Hotels

There’s plenty of wet and wild exhilaration to experience when visiting Niagara Falls. You don’t even need to climb into a barrel near the legendary falls to start your adventure (in fact, we’d suggest that you don’t go to that extreme). Instead, visitors flock to the Instead, visitors flock to the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark from one of the connected Niagara Falls hotels, which promises aquatic antics for the whole family.

Whether you’re looking to splash about with friends or need a place to let the kids cut loose and have a blast, there’s something for everyone at the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, no matter your age.

All About Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

While the Niagara area is great for sightseeing, taking tours and going on photography excursions, sometimes you just want to throw on a bathing suit and dive into some excitement at a waterpark. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark offers dozens of ways to do that, with thrilling attractions guaranteed to entertain kids and adults alike.

This massive indoor waterpark is built on 3 acres, conveniently settled between 3 area hotels with indoor walkways to the waterpark. These hotels are Sheraton on the Falls, the Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls – Fallview and the Skyline Hotel & Waterpark Niagara Falls.

If you’re expecting a couple of water slides, a big pool and maybe a hot tub, you’re in for a surprise when you check out this massive indoor attraction. Fallsview boasts a whopping 16 waterslides and a full-size wave pool with waves up to 3 ft high! There are 2 large hot tubs for adults, and plenty of age-appropriate attractions for the kids, including a jungle beach play area, a splash park for the younger visitors and a 1,000 gallon tipping bucket that splashes everyone nearby when it gets full. There’s also an outdoor pool and sundeck that operates year-round.   No matter how you spend your time splashing around, Fallsview has you covered.

Good Times, No Matter the Season

Fallsview is an indoor aquatic wonderland, meaning it is a perfectly suited attraction, no matter when you’re visiting Niagara. It is the ideal balance to cold weather that can descend on Niagara Falls. The facility is designed so visitors can enjoy those summer feels even in the dead of winter by offering 84 degree temperatures year-round.

Neither rain nor snow can keep you away from splashing around in the park thanks to indoor connections from the three connecting hotels.  It’s easy to throw on your trunks and head out for an afternoon of enjoyment, no matter the weather outside.

What to Pack for Niagara Falls Fallsview Waterpark

If you’re simply visiting Fallsview Indoor Waterpark or want to plan for a day of waterpark activities, you’ll probably want to bring along a small bag with all of the necessities. This is an especially great tip when visiting the waterpark as a Hotel Waterpark Package Guest.  Upon arrival, check in at the hotel, and if your room is not yet available, you can still receive your wristbands to access to the waterpark while the Hotel stores your luggage. A small secondary bag with waterpark essentials allows to head to the park with ease without having to unpack a suitcase in the lobby or pull it to the waterpark.

There are men’s and women’s changing rooms available at the park, as well as changing rooms for families. It’s a great idea to pack a change of clothes (for example shorts and a shirt) so you can travel through the indoor walkways comfortably and not just be in your swimsuit.  You’ll also want to pack flip-flops or easy slip on shoes as outdoor shoes are not permitted in the waterpark play area but should be worn when moving throughout the adjoining areas. Park rules state you can wear water shoes on the slides, so be sure to include those, too. As a side note, Crocs are not permitted.

If you want to bring your own towel, be sure to toss one or two into the bag. It’s important to remember that towels from the hotel are not permitted, and that Fallsview Indoor Waterpark has a fresh supply available at no charge.

While you may not bring your own inflatables into the waterpark, beach balls, life jackets, as well as mats and tubes for the slides, are available at no extra charge.

In case you get to Fallsview and realize you’ve forgotten something, Guest Services is on hand with all sorts of items for purchase, including personal towels, water shoes, cameras, goggles and swim diapers for the youngsters.

Speaking of which, you’ll also want to pack some cash or a card, in case you want to rent a locker for the day. The Waterpark has 160 digital lockers to hold your belongings while trying to head down the water slides.

To truly kick back and relax, you can also spring for a private cabana which offers views of either the park or Niagara Falls which is located directly across the street from the Waterpark. Each Cabana provides a private space with seating/dining area for up to 6 guests, lounge chairs, wicker style cabinet with a lock, and complimentary bottled water.

Book Your Fallsview Getaway

The only thing left to do now is book your Fallsview Indoor Waterpark getaway, which is easy thanks to the vacation package offered through Niagara Falls Hotels.

The Waterpark Getaway Package can be booked for one or two nights at five hotels, including the adjoining Sheraton on the Falls, Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls – Fallsview and Skyline Hotel & Waterpark Niagara Falls, as well as nearby Niagara Falls hotels, Clifton Victoria Inn at the Falls or Marriott on the Falls.

This package includes up to four, two-day Fallsview Indoor Waterpark passes, perfect for the family or a group of friends looking for some adventure. These passes include exclusive early access to the park (on select dates), giving you more time to experience the amazing water thrills with a smaller crowd.

Book your Niagara Falls Hotels package today.

The Niagara region is home to dozens of Niagara Falls wineries, offering plenty of wines both familiar and unique to the region. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon of fun or are planning a trip down the Niagara wine route, these picturesque landscapes make for an exciting visit with most opening their doors to the public and taking part in special events throughout the year. Equal parts entertaining and educational, anyone looking for things to do in Niagara Falls should make sure a winery visit is on the calendar.

Looking ahead to 2020, Niagara wineries have plenty of signature events planned, as well as festivals and celebrations emphasizing the region’s wines. Here’s a rundown of some of the best events and locales those visiting the Niagara region this year won’t want to miss.

Snow Globe Soiree

One of the best ways to learn about wines of the region is to experience a variety of offerings during one of the many festive Niagara Falls events. The Snow Globe Soiree will let you do exactly that, all while enjoying a memorable night in view of the falls from inside your very own snow globe. You heard right – your very own snow globe.

Hosted by Niagara Grape & Wine, the Snow Globe Soiree runs across eight weekends, with food provided by top chefs and restaurants from the area. On top of the three-course meals, visitors will sample a variety of Niagara VQA wines, which means they were all made from grapes grown in the region.

The Soiree begins and concludes with a toasty visit to the Snow Globe Lounge, where plenty of wines will be available for visitors. The 90-minute, 3-course dinner follows, which guests will enjoy from within their very own snow globes overlooking Niagara Falls. Each globe seats six and comes with its own concierge, who will be happy to answer any of your wine-related questions throughout the event.

 The Snow Globe Soiree offers two dining sessions per night, Friday through Sunday, from the weekends of January 16 through February 13.

Days of Wine & Chocolate

Heading into February, it’s hard to pass up an event that boasts both wine and chocolate. Niagara on the Lake hosts Days of Wine & Chocolate across four weekends, beginning the weekend of January 31 and concluding with the weekend of February 21. 

Similar to the Snow Globe Soiree, one of the biggest advantages of visiting Days of Wine & Chocolate is that it will allow you to sample a number of wines from Niagara, with the added bonus of being paired with chocolate-infused meals and treats.

This event includes the wineries of Niagara on the Lake, about two dozen establishments ranging from Reif Estate Winery and Southbrook Vineyards to Strewn and Riverview Cellars Estate Winery. There are a lot of wineries to get through, which is why organizers recommend visitors stay for a full weekend or plan more than one trip to the event.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway with friends or a romantic weekend for two, Days of Wine & Chocolate allows visitors to learn more about their passions through this mouthwatering event.

Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery

Wayne Gretzky is known for more than his prestigious hockey career these days. Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery has become a fan favorite for Niagara wine aficionados over the years, with its staff of expert winemakers producing multiple award-winning beverages. As an added bonus, proceeds from the winery support Gretzky’s foundation, which introduces youngsters to hockey. If you’re looking for even more reasons to visit Gretzky Estates, this winery has got you covered.

First up is Saturday DJ Night, where resident DJ Dave Stiles will keep everyone moving from 6 to 9 p.m. Drink wine, grab some snacks and enjoy groovin’ music every weekend. Don’t forget to lace up your skates and hit the rink located right there on the property. It’s Wayne Gretzky we’re talking about, so of course his winery has an ice rink.

 If you’d prefer a more intimate evening, that’s where Friday Date & Skate comes in. This weekly package includes skate rentals for two, a pair of craft cocktails from The Whisky Bar, a large warm pretzel to share and a wine tasting flight for two.

Dig Our Roots

If you’re planning a trip to the Niagara region this spring, the Dig Our Roots event hosted the weekend of April 17 promises to be a great way to sample wines and learn all about the wineries of Niagara on the Lake.

As the name implies, Dig Our Roots is just as much about sampling wine as it is learning about the birthplace of Canadian winemaking and the various wineries responsible for that storied history. Throughout the event, visitors are invited to drop by the many wineries of Niagara on the Lake and get a firsthand education on what makes the region so special.

Book Your Niagara Falls Winery Vacation Now

Whether you’re in the mood to sample tasty wines or want to know more about the process and wineries that make them, Niagara is a top destination. You can learn about many of the wineries of Niagara and upcoming events by visiting Niagara Falls Hotels.

The 20 acre Falls Avenue Resort is hosting a Holiday Market from December 21, 2019 – January 4, 2020.  The market features a bevy of seasonal food & drinks options, unique pop-up shops and live music.

With more than 30 vendors located throughout the Resort, visitors will enjoy exploring the hotel, attraction and restaurant complex.

Key features of the market include:

Fire & Ice Winter Patio – A heated outdoor patio featuring Niagara Brewing Company and Niagara Distillery. The market menu includes award winning ribs with Billy Bones BBQ sauce and cornbread, limited edition Icewine Beer, spiked hot chocolate or apple cider, frosted martini’s, bavarian sausage, pretzels, and pulled pork poutine. To warm up, head into one of the heated igloos stationed on the patio!

Grey Goose Lounge – This heated patio is home to live music and holiday themed cocktails featuring Grey Goose Vodka, and is sure to heat up the afternoon.  Stop in for a sip and stay for a bite from the Kitchen.  This lounge is open from 4:00-8:00pm during the market.

Food & Drinks

Here are just some of the delicious items available:

• Niagara Icewine Beer
• Made to Order S’mores, Hot Chocolate, Decked-out Chocolate Dipped Cheesecake Kabobs
• Cotton Candy on a Glo-Wand, Grinch-y Minty Milkshake, Crystal Beach Waffles & Suckers, Beer Nuts, Caramel Corn
• Mulled Wine
• “Holy Mint” limited edition Sweet Jesus Ice Cream holiday cone
• Make your own Maple Taffy Sucker
• Fire Roasted Chestnuts

Falls Avenue Holiday Market also features exclusive pop-up shops offering some of the most exciting options available on the Resort, including sweet treats, souvenirs, novelty items, clothing, toys, games and much more.

To learn more about the Holiday Market, please visit NiagaraHolidayMarket.com

Stay and explore by reserving a stay at one of 4 Falls Avenue Resort Hotels.

Niagara Falls Canada lights up in winter – literally. When the temperatures drop, the Niagara Falls beauty heats up, with art installations, frozen falls, holiday light displays and more.

You can get strikingly different photos this time of year compared to other times. If you’ve never been to Niagara Falls in winter, it’s a great time of year to explore and shoot some cool shots.

If you’re wondering where the best view of Niagara Falls is in winter, this blog covers five of the top spots to get Niagara Falls pictures you’ll always cherish.

1. The Winter Festival of Lights Route

The Winter Festival of Lights is the premiere winter event in Niagara Falls Canada. Along 8km in Niagara Falls, more than 3 million lights illuminate this beautiful Canadian destination. There are light displays along the Niagara Parkway, near the Niagara Falls waterfalls, at Clifton Hill and at Dufferin Islands.

Snap photos of cool displays like:

• Animal shapes created by stringed lights
• Trees wrapped in tiny colourful lights
• The Fallsview Sound & Light Show and Hydro Power Station Display
• Niagara Falls waterfalls illumination
• Interactive light displays, like seesaws you can ride on

Everywhere you turn in Niagara Falls in winter, there’s a photo-worthy moment because of the Winter Festival of Lights. This annual event draws visitors from around the world. There isn’t anything else like it, and the photo opportunities are endless.

2. Frozen Niagara Falls

The Niagara Falls waterfalls are powerful and mighty, but they also achieve a more delicate state in winter. In recent years, parts of the waterfalls have frozen. It’s a unique experience to see what is usually rushing water become still and peaceful in the winter.

The frozen Niagara Falls present an amazing winter photo. It’s also an illusory sight. There is still water rushing underneath the frozen parts, though a photo viewer would just see Niagara Falls frozen. Winter is the only time of year this happens, so if you want a photo that will stand out, now’s the time to come.

3. Niagara SkyWheel

Take a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel for some awesome views of Niagara Falls. The SkyWheel reaches 175 feet and is located in the bustling Clifton Hill entertainment area. Riding on the Ferris wheel is a fun experience for the whole family. It also presents some good Niagara Falls pictures opportunities.

Another perk to taking photos in the Niagara SkyWheel, it’s climate controlled. You can head inside day or night, year-round, and be warm and comfortable.

Get your camera ready to take shots of views like the Horseshoe and American Falls, the Niagara River, Niagara Parks and other Niagara Falls Canada landmarks. The ride lasts around 10 minutes long, so you’ll have plenty of turns to take some snaps.

The view at night shows off the glittering lights of Niagara Falls, if you’re into skyline scenes. Or head out during the day to maybe get a photo of some frozen Niagara Falls waterfalls.

4. Skylon Tower

Go even higher in Niagara Falls by heading to Skylon Tower, a revolving restaurant offering 2 levels of find dining 775 feet above Niagara Falls. Skylon Tower features both a family-affordable buffet and a table-service continental cuisine revolving dining room. You can dine and shoot photos right from your seat as the restaurant silently revolves around, giving you new views of the Niagara Falls region every few minutes.

Skylon Tower also has ride-to-the-top and indoor/outdoor observation decks for unbeatable views of Niagara Falls. From Skylon Tower, you can see all three Niagara Falls waterfalls, the Great Gorge, the Niagara wine district and city skylines of both the Canada side, including Toronto, as well as the Buffalo, New York, skyline.

5. Journey Behind the Falls

See Niagara Falls from a vantage point unlike any other by taking the Journey Behind the Falls tour. You can get some really awesome photos as you descend 125 feet and walk through 130-year-old tunnels that are formed in bedrock behind the Horseshoe Falls waterfalls.

Peek through the viewing portals that are cut straight through the rock to see the rushing waters, which gives you a photo op that’s truly unique.

You can do the Journey Behind the Falls tour day or night, so choose the illumination ambiance that will work best for your photos. Or, go on the tour twice for different kinds of shots.

Plan an Instagram-Worthy Niagara Falls Canada Trip

There are so many other places in Niagara Falls that are picture-perfect places to get photos your social media followers will love. You can drive around Niagara Falls neighbourhoods to see cool holiday light displays, you can capture Niagara Falls fireworks lighting up the night sky, or you could head to one of the many parks in Niagara Falls for a wintry view of nature.

Want some suggestions on where to get the Niagara Falls pictures you’re looking for? Contact the concierge when you book with Niagara Falls Hotels to get suggestions.

During the winter, Canada is truly a winter wonderland. Snow-capped mountains, freezing temps, frozen lakes, string-lit streets — it’s no wonder Ontario has become one of the top honeymoon destinations. This magical town during the winter becomes a place for exploration and pure beauty highlighted by the major fall that lives as the backdrop of many scenes — Niagara Falls.

The majestic falls are more than just a backdrop. During the winter, there are endless activities surrounding the falls that give you new and exciting ways to take in its beauty. Below, we’ve compiled our favorites things to do in Niagara Falls during the winter.

1. Niagara Ice Wine Festival

There’s never a bad time for a day of drinking. Spend a winter day enjoying the unique tastes of some of the best ice wines from all over the country. The Niagara Icewine Festival brings together winemakers and wine lovers from all over Ontario at Niagara on the Lake to indulge in some adult fun. This festival is a great opportunity to explore some of your favorite wines, with or without the family. The festival boasts loads of activities for both adults and kids, creating a fun day for everyone in the family.

Learn more about the festival here or explore more about the production and tastes of ice wine here.

2. Niagara Falls Fireworks Shows

What’s just as famous as the waterfall itself? The fireworks. During the holiday season, this is one of the most popular Niagara Falls attractions. There are over 20 fireworks displays that happen over the falls. These famous shows bring hundreds of people to enjoy the sights of the falls with an added, electrifying perk. Every Friday night at 9 p.m. — plus nightly from December 21-30 and January 1-5 — there are explosive shows right over the falls. Bundle up, bring a cup of hot cocoa and watch shows lasting up to four minutes take over the Ontario sky. The full schedule can be found on our Winter Festival of Lights blog post.

3. Journey Behind the Falls

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous this winter season, this is the perfect event for you. Believe it or not, the Journey Behind the Falls attraction runs all year round. It’s the perfect opportunity to take in a whole new perspective of the world’s most famous falls. Plus, it’s fun for the whole family. Bring a poncho — you’re likely to catch a wet breeze throughout this invigorating tour of the falls and the 130-year-old tunnels that lie just behind the white wall. Snag tickets for the holiday season here.

4. Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory

If something low key is a little more your style, the Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory is the perfect wintertime activity for you. Escape the cold and enter a truly memorizing space full of monarchs. The summer-like atmosphere will help you shake off the frigid winter weather while still having the sense of being outdoors. The magical flying garden will truly delight any member of the family. We know you might be bundled up for the season, but make sure to dress in layers before you enter the conservative. Inside is very warm to create an ideal space for the butterflies to thrive. Learn more or book your tickets here.

5. Niagara Falls Waterpark

A waterpark in the winter? Yes, you read that right. Ontario is home to some of the most spectacular indoor waterparks in the country. Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is directly across from the Falls and boast family-friendly fun for hours. This park is always voted as one of the most fun things to do in Niagara Falls and Ontario, and boasts indoor connections to three hotels, making it an ideal year-round activity. The indoor park allows for families of all sizes to play around on the slides and attractions, and features a variety of amenities, so everyone has a great time.

6. Visit Clifton Hill

While the weather outside might be a bit frigid, it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Clifton Hill Niagara Falls is where all of the fun in the city lies. It is packed with hilarious fun houses, mazes, restaurants, haunted houses and much more. Make memories exploring the endless attractions, take a tour of the infamous wax museum or even bowl a few games — Clifton Hill is truly is a playground for people of all ages.

7. Book a Hotel Room with a View of the Falls

Booking a hotel near the falls can make for one of the most amazing, relaxing wintertime hobbies. Whether you want to stay for a weekend or a week, there are hotels right along the water that are ready to welcome you with open arms. You can go for full romance with a staycation inside a room with a crystal-clear view of the falls, or you can create a full holiday experience with help from fine dining options, casinos, family attractions and magical holiday events. Find the best places to stay in Niagara Falls here.

The holiday season is upon us. If you’re like most, you’re probably planning how and where you’ll spend the magical holidays. Why not Niagara? Most see Niagara Falls as the premier summer destination, but in reality, the falls are even more stunning during the winter. If you’re ready to see Niagara in a whole new light, now’s the time. Below, we have compiled a few of our favorite things to do in Niagara Falls during the winter. Trust us, you won’t want to miss a single one. 

Winter Festival of Lights

The Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights is one of the most beloved holiday events in the city. The Ontario Power Generation has created this family-friendly event for people all over the area to gather and enjoy one of the most simple pleasures in entertainment. Throughout Niagara Parks, Dufferin Islands and the mighty Niagara Falls, you will find over 8 kilometers of illuminated streets. Throughout the path, you will find over 3 million lights intertwined with the streets and twisted into creative sights for the entire family to enjoy. 

This event is free for everyone. Bundle up and take in the sights of this truly incredible winter wonderland. Plus, enjoy a grand fireworks display on select nights! 

Niagara Falls Fireworks

When you visit Niagara Falls, there’s no way you’ll miss the magnificence of the rushing waters. While most people flock to the area during the summer, one of the most exciting times to see the falls is during the holidays. During the winter, there are spectacular fireworks shows that explode high over the mighty Falls as a part of the Winter Festival of Lights that we spoke about earlier. On select days during the month of November, you can catch one of the most memorable shows in all of Ontario. At 9 pm, the fireworks soar and explode right above the Falls, lighting up the dark winter sky. You’ll experience neon views of the sky, the falls and the beautiful city that lies around them — this experience is sure to create lifelong memories. 

This event is free for all guests. To get the best views, head to Queen Victoria Park, and visit here to see which days of the month this magical event will take place.

Catch a Show 

During the holiday season, performers from all over the world flock to the winter wonderland of Ontario. Over the holiday month’s, you can find a concert for nearly every genre and every style. Whether you want to catch a classic show like A Christmas Carol, or if you want to see a legend like John McDermont, there is something for everyone. This year, there are so many great performances at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, Seneca Queen Theatre, Greg Frewin Theatre, Scotiabank Convention Centre and more. Be sure to check their schedules during your visit to Niagara Falls to catch one of the most exciting shows of the season. 

Explore Exciting Trip Packages 

There is always something to do or see in Ontario. If you want to make your experience a little more unique, or if you don’t want to plan anything, check out our Niagara Falls Packages. We’ll take care of all of the details so all you have to do is show up. Everything from your room to attractions will be handled so you can sit back and truly enjoy the holiday season — stress free. Explore all of our packages here. 

Wondering what to do in Niagara Falls Canada? Every year, one of the most anticipated Niagara Falls activities comes to Queen Street in downtown Niagara Falls, as the Santa Claus Parade ushers in the holiday spirit. Community members, local businesses and visitors gather to watch holiday-themed floats pass through and check out live entertainment like marching bands and stilt walkers.

This year’s event is Saturday, November 16, at 11 a.m. Put this at the top of your list of Niagara Falls upcoming events to check out. A Niagara Falls Christmas is one of the coolest in the entire world. The Santa Claus Parade gives you a peek at the holiday fun to come.

Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade Details

When: Saturday, November 16. The parade goes from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. There is a Santa meet-and-greet event from 12:45-2:30 p.m.

Where: The parade route starts on Victoria Avenue at Amoury Street. It travels north on Victoria Avenue, then turns right onto Valley Way, then turns right onto Queen Street, then ends just past Niagara Falls City Hall. The Santa meet-and-greet takes place at Niagara Falls City Hall, at 4310 Queen Street, Niagara Falls.

Cost: Free

Information: (905) 356-7521, ext. 3332, or NiagaraFalls.ca/events

Who Will Be in the Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade?

The Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade is one of the biggest Niagara Falls upcoming events for good reason. The floats are so much fun to watch pass by. Kids get to see some of their favorite holiday figures, like snowmen, reindeer and Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Top Niagara Falls talent is on display, with musicians, stilt walkers and more.

Some of the past faces and floats in the Santa Claus Parade have included:

• Holiday elves
• High school marching bands
• Giant inflatables, including Rudolph
• Circus performers like hoop dancers
• Life-size gingerbread men
• Horse-drawn carriages

Locals who want to walk in the parade can submit an application online by Friday, October 4. Most floats are holiday-themed. All the parade participants are a great reflection of the one-of-a-kind Niagara Falls community and culture.

What’s It Like to Attend the Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade?

Each year, thousands of attendees come to the Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade. You can bring pets and grab a spot on the street to watch, as long as it’s not in the parade route’s way. You can bring your own chairs or seating so you have a comfortable place to watch the parade go by, or you can stand as you watch.

Be sure to have your camera ready. Some of the floats that pass by are truly spectacular, especially for little ones in terms of size and design. There will also be plenty of diverse entertainment, too, with acts like music, dancing and circus-themed performances.

The Santa meet-and-greet that is at the end of the parade is a great opportunity to snap some photos for holiday cards. There will be kids Niagara Falls activities in addition to the meet-and-greet, like face painting. The event is fun for the whole family.

Volunteer in the Santa Claus Parade

Dozens of volunteers make the Santa Claus Parade a possibility each year. Volunteers help organize floats and participants, help monitor crowds and answer questions, carry banners in the parade, walk with parade mascots or walk as mascots themselves, help assist with the Santa meet-and-greet and perform other miscellaneous tasks related to the parade.

Volunteering for the Santa Claus Parade is a great way for teens and adults to get community service hours and be a part of a huge family-friendly event in Niagara Falls.

Make a Day of It on Queen Street in Niagara Falls

You can spend the whole day with your family on Queen Street in Niagara Falls after the parade is over. Queen Street is mere minutes away from the Niagara Falls waterfalls. There are dozens of shops, restaurants, art galleries and more along Queen Street where the parade passes through. Some things to check out include:

• Bars and restaurants, like Taps Brewhouse, Paris Crepes Cafe, Grand Central Bar & Grill and Third Space Cafe
• Galleries, like The Butterfly Gallery and Steve Wilson Studios & The Gallery
• Shops, like Ethereal Aesthetics and Fae Nature

Queen Street stores feature unique handmade items by local artisans. Queen Street restaurants and bars also feature local ingredients, beers and artisan cocktails. There’s plenty to do before and after the Santa Claus Parade passes through Queen Street in Niagara Falls.

Book a Niagara Falls Trip for the Holiday Season

The Santa Claus Parade in Niagara Falls is a great place to see the Niagara Falls community come together and show off their creativity and holiday spirit. Niagara Falls Hotels are near all the action. Book your stay so you can celebrate the holidays in one of the world’s most scenic places.

The once statue-like boat has broken free. For generations, the sight of the Old Iron Scow has been a popular part of taking in the Falls and the haunting story of the ship captivates millions of visitors. 

In 1918, the ship was manned by sailors when it ran aground on a sandbar, causing the connecting cables to snap. This sent the boat and its sailors hurling into the rapids. The ship hit a shelving rock that jolted it to a stop one-third of a mile

from the 167-foot Horseshoe Falls.

A team of volunteers saved two of the sailors as they watched the boat go down. The boat has been stuck in the same place since then — except for now. 

Storm of the Century

On October 31, 2019, a storm from the Northeast brought winds over 50 miles per hour through the falls. These insane winds, and the increased flow of the Niagara River, pushed the Old Iron Scow free, causing it to roll 160 feet downriver. There it now sits, rolled onto its side — even closer to the edge of the falls. 

Having sat in place for more than a century, the ship’s repositioning has caught the attention of Niagara Falls’ fans and visitors. With the constant exposure to water and air,  the boat had been rusting and rotting away before our eyes. Many believe that the little movement caused by the wind was just enough to cause a fracture in the ship’s remaining structure, thus causing the ship to break the hold of the rock outcropping it held onto and float downstream.

What’s Next for the Old Iron Scow?

 The boat will be inspected again in its current position to ensure that it will remain secure. Where it is now can affect boat tours, power plants, and more, which is why this investigation needs to happen. 

Many are concerned about the boat and the threat it could pose to the health and well-being of the Falls and the tourism it provides, but officials are confident that the boat will remain put. 

For more details about this update, click here.

Ring in 2020 in Niagara Falls!

The annual Niagara Falls New Year’s Eve event in Queen Victoria Park is one of Canada’s longest running New Year’s Eve celebration with a free concert, fireworks, and more. This year’s outdoor concert features an amazing all-Canadian lineup of award winning musicians. The festivities begin at 8:30pm with Juno Award Winning, multi-platinum musical phenomenon, Walk Off the Earth and headlined by one of Canada’s most exciting live musicians; Bryan Adams. With an influence that has spanned four decades, his song writing has garnered him numerous awards and accolades including three Academy Award nominations, five Golden Globe nominations and a Grammy Award.

Fireworks spark the beginning of a New Year; enjoy spectacular shows over Niagara Falls at 9:15pm followed by a grand finale display at midnight to mark the beginning of 2020! Niagara Falls New Year’s Eve celebrations never disappoint. Join the tradition of celebrating with us at the site of our natural wonder, or the amazing bands and entertainment.

Don’t miss out on a show that will create memories to last the whole year through, book your New Year’s Eve hotel stay in the heart of the City to be close to the show, guaranteed that you won’t miss a thing!