Category: Niagara Falls Hotels

Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful places in the world, so it’s obvious that a trip here is worth adding to your bucket list. But because it’s so close to nature, should you opt for camping near Niagara Falls, or a stay at one of the best Niagara Falls hotels? We break down the pros and cons of a Niagara Falls camping trip or RV camping stop versus staying at a Niagara Falls hotel.

Weather

If you’re going to go camping Niagara Falls, especially in a tent, it’s best to consider the weather. Most Niagara Falls campgrounds are only open from around April through October, because fall and winter temperatures can get quite chilly. We’re talking down to below 20ºF/-7ºC in January and February.

Plus, there’s rain to consider. In August, it rains an average of seven days over the month, up to around 12 days of rain in December. So even if the temperatures are nice and mild or warm, you could still get rained on in your tent.

If you’re booking a Niagara Falls trip between April and October, camping is an option. Just be prepared to equip your tent for rain and bring lots of layers to stay warm while you’re outside. Some campgrounds have cabins, which might be an option that works for your family.

All year-round, the best Niagara Falls hotels keep you comfortable at any temperature you’d like. You can take a warm soak in the tub in cooler temps, or walk downstairs for a spa day, or curl up to a fireplace in your room.

Amenities

If you consider yourself low-maintenance and don’t need to have 24/7 room service at your disposal, camping may work for you. Many Niagara Falls camping sites offer daytime amenities like heated pools, kid activities and outdoor movies. Some will just be weather-dependent.

Hotels, on the other hand, provide just about anything you want with the dial of a button. Grab alcohol from the mini-bar, or head to the hotel lounge. Swim in an indoor pool, any time you want, even if it’s thundering and lightning outside. Exercise comfortably in a fitness centre. Whatever you need for an enjoyable vacation, a hotel usually has it.

Convenience

For nature lovers, the ability to walk outside and go on a hike with no fuss makes camping Niagara Falls a dream. A lot of Niagara Falls campsites have pedal bike rentals so you can ride around the grounds. Many are also a walk or shuttle bus ride away from landmarks like the Niagara Falls waterfalls. You don’t have to worry about walking to a restaurant to eat. Just light up your campsite fire pit and start cooking your meal.

Niagara Falls hotels offer a different type of convenience. Most are close by to urban destinations like top restaurants, bars and Niagara Falls attractions. Some hotels, like the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, even have an indoor waterpark and casino directly connected to the hotel. And, of course, the ability to have food and drinks delivered right to where you’re staying is also a convenient service some visitors want.

Social Atmosphere

Both Niagara Falls hotels and sites for camping near Niagara Falls have various social atmospheres to consider. Both usually contain group and family activities if your party is into that, like art classes at campsites and waterpark fun at hotels.

At campgrounds, you can wander from tent to RV and make friends with other visitors. You also might hear the fun your neighbours are having, especially when your tent campsites and fire pits are close by. Picnic tables at campsites are great for gathering, so if you’re the type of traveller who wants to make new friends on vacation, you might love the camping atmosphere.

Hotels let you be as intimate or as social as you want. You can go solo or with your partner and have a romantic couples stay. Or, you can wander to a hotel casino or hotel bar and chat up those you’re playing, eating and drinking with. It just depends what you’re into. One social atmosphere will be a lot more rugged and laid-back, and the other can be as dressy and cocktail-ready as you want.

Cleanliness

Finally, one of the biggest considerations travellers have when deciding between camping and a hotel is cleanliness. It’s an issue that led to the birth of glamping, which is the presence of cabanas, cabins and cottages on campgrounds, all of which you’ll find in Niagara Falls.

Most Niagara Falls campsites have warm showers on site. But if you’re in a tent, you’ll likely have to walk on paths right by dirt, insects and trees to get to them. If you don’t mind, then no worries.

You also might be RV camping and have a shower in your vehicle. Daily showers might not even be a requirement for some people, which makes saving money with camping something that might make sense.

If you have to have a warm shower (or bath) or several a day, a hotel beats camping for cleanliness. There’s nothing quite like spending the night in nature, but you can always hike during the day and come back to your hotel later for a shower if you want.

Should You Do Both?

Both camping and a hotel stay offer lots of comparable experiences. If you want to explore the great outdoors, you can still do that but stay at a hotel. If you want to camp, you can still grab a ride to get a good restaurant meal and check out Niagara Falls attractions. It all depends on what amenities you crave, what kind of social atmosphere you want to be surrounded by, and whether or not roughing it is something you truly enjoy.

Why not try both? If you’re headed to Niagara Falls in the spring or summer, you can spend a night camping and book a hotel for the rest of your stay. Find the best Niagara Falls hotels here.

Want to celebrate the awesomeness you just saw visiting Niagara Falls? Cheers to beers! Or, whatever cocktail you’re into. Grab your buddies or your beloved, and use this guide to plan one of the best Niagara Falls tours and things to do in Niagara: your very own Niagara Falls brewery and pub crawl.

Start Here: Niagara Brewing Company

Try one of four house-brewed beers, like the Honeymoon Peach Radler, at this brewery, which also serves up food options. There are loads more beers on tap (ice wine beer is a must-try, but be warned – it’s at a 9.7 percent ABV), plus there are growlers for take-home brews.

Walk to Margaritaville Niagara Falls

It’s about a 20-minute walk (or just a 4-minute drive!) to Margaritaville Niagara Falls, but walking is a great excuse to burn off some calories from the beer you drank, right? If your tummy is rumbling, you can fill up on island-inspired burgers and entrees here. Sip on margaritas or fruity cocktails that have that island vibe any time of year.

Walk to 1904 Lounge

The 1904 Lounge is only about a 5-minute walk away from Margaritaville. Named after the year its home venue, the Old Stone Inn, was created, 1904 is a cozy spot with handcrafted, generously poured cocktails.

Walk to Myst Lounge

It’s a close walk to Myst Lounge from 1904 Lounge. Myst Lounge is located 33 floors high for prime views of Niagara Falls. Check out the diverse martini menu, with offerings like the Niagara Ice, made with vodka and ice wine. Pair your drink with something off the appetizer menu if you want, with items ranging from escargot to pork belly-topped polenta.

Ride (or Walk) to Doc Magilligan’s Restaurant & Irish Pub

It takes less than 10 minutes to ride to Doc Magilligan’s Restaurant & Irish Pub on public transportation or a ride-share, or you can burn off more drinks with a brisk 25-minute walk. It’s worth the trek, because this spot is decorated like a true Irish pub and features an extensive whiskey menu, in addition to classic cocktail favorites.

Walk to Syndicate Restaurant

Just a 10-minute walk away from Doc Magilligan’s is Syndicate Restaurant, a spot that’s just as much a destination for drinks and live music as it is food. Walk through a giant bookcase to get to the upstairs bar, which serves drinks like maple whiskey and red cream ale.

Walk to Carpaccio Restaurant

Need a break from beer? Head right across the street from Syndicate Restaurant to Carpaccio Restaurant. Grab a glass of vino, or indulge in an adult coffee drink, like the A-52 made with Amarula Cream, Kahlua and Grand Marnier.

Get a Ride to Silversmith Brewing Company

Catch a quick 15-minute ride up north for more fun Niagara Falls bars to check out. Silversmith Brewing Company is a Niagara Falls brewery serving up around a dozen handmade beers, like the award-winning Black Lager.

Ride to the Irish Harp

It’s worth another quick ride (10 minutes or less) to the Irish Harp, which boasts more than 20 different beers on tap every day. There’s also live music most nights of the week, as well as special events like Quiz Night if you want to battle the locals.

Walk to the Exchange Brewery

From the Irish Harp, you’re only a couple-minutes’ walk away from the Exchange Brewery. You can tour and taste at the brewery on weekend afternoons, but if you come here at night, you can still sample of one about eight draft beers and a bevy of different bottled drinks.

Tips for Your Pub Crawl

Some things to remember when you’re planning a Niagara Falls brewery tour or pub crawl:

• Check hours: Some places, even breweries, close around 9 or 10 p.m. at night. You might want to start your pub crawl around a 5 o’clock happy hour to get the most mileage out of your night.
• Uber and Lyft work in Niagara Falls: Never drink alcohol and drive. Always get a safe ride wherever you’re going. You can download ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft to get you were you need to go. There’s also public transportation you can take. Look up your smartphone’s map app to see what it recommends.
• Need a nightcap? Check out your hotel: There are many luxurious places to stay in Niagara Falls, Canada, and most have their own bars, too. End your night where you’re staying, and you can stumble back to your room just a few steps away.

You should also fuel up so you don’t drink on an empty stomach and get sick. Find some tasty Niagara Falls restaurants (which also serve unique drinks), so you can balance out your night.

Need help planning things to do in Niagara Falls? Contact us, and we can recommend some great pubs and breweries that are close to wherever you’re staying.

Any time you can visit Niagara Falls, even if it’s just for a day, you should check out some of the awe-inspiring things this global destination has to offer. There are tons of notable Niagara Falls landmarks within walking distance or a short drive away from each other, so you can still get the best view of Niagara Falls in 24 hours.

Make the most of a one-day trip to Niagara Falls with this guide that will take you to some of the coolest spots in the area. And if you have enough time to sleep over during your Niagara Falls trip, visit our site for the best hotels in Niagara Falls.

1. Start at the Cave of the Winds

You can begin your Niagara Falls journey on the U.S. side, at the Cave of the Winds. Like its name implies, the Cave of the Winds puts you right in the centre of Niagara Falls rushing water action.

Head to the base of Niagara Gorge to get within 25 feet of the Bridal Veil Falls of Niagara Falls. You’ll receive a poncho to wear that will keep you protected from the mists of the rapids. Spending around a half-hour here is a great way to get the full experience.

2. Niagara Falls State Park

From the Cave of the Winds, head to Niagara Falls State Park, which is less than 5 minutes away by car and is still on the U.S. side of Niagara Falls. The park is open every day and features a Discovery Center and hiking trails.

See some American Niagara Falls nature, take a stroll or learn more about the rich history of Niagara Falls. Plan for about an hour here to check out the major offerings.

3. American Falls

Drive about 15 minutes to see American Falls, one of three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls. Yep, American Falls is also on the U.S. side of Niagara Falls. It’s the second-largest waterfall, reaches 180 feet high and has an estimated water flow of 75,000 gallons per second.

Walk about 5 minutes away to see where Niagara Falls meets the Canada border. This world wonder is worth spending a couple hours at. You could take a Maid of the Mist boat tour while you’re here to get out on the water.

4. Horseshoe Falls

Have your passport handy. It’s time to get to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls!

Drive 5 minutes by car to Horseshoe Falls, the portion of Niagara Falls with the highest flow rate. Since the water flows so quickly here, it’s often the most highly-rated portion of Niagara Falls for visitors to see. This part of Niagara Falls is even responsible for providing hydraulic power to parts of Canada.

5. Journey Behind the Falls

Head less than 5 minutes away by car to Journey Behind the Falls, a tour that takes you to the heart of Niagara Falls, down 125 feet. The Journey Behind the Falls tour weaves through 130-year-old tunnels, where you can hear and feel the rushing waters before seeing them through holes cut through the bedrock. Plan for about an hour for this tour.

6. Skylon Tower

Walk 15 minutes to Skylon Tower, an observation tower hovering 775 feet tall. You can grab a bite to eat at its revolving restaurant and check out Niagara Falls views from two observation decks, one inside and one outside.

From the Skylon Tower, you can see the cities of both Toronto, Ontario, and Buffalo, New York, as well as the entire Niagara Falls.

7. Clifton Hill

From Skylon Tower, walk about 10 minutes to Clifton Hill, a bustling entertainment district that has a midway with more than 300 games, plus bowling, mini-golf, amusement park rides and restaurants. There are also museums to check out, like the Movieland Wax Museum. It’s a great place to visit if you’re in Niagara Falls for a short time with kids.

8. Niagara SkyWheel

Cap off your short trip to Niagara Falls with a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel, at Clifton Hill. The giant ferris wheel soars 175 feet above Niagara Falls and has climate-controlled gondolas for a comfortable ride any time of year.

Learn about the history of Niagara Falls as you take in views of the waterfalls, Niagara Parks and other landmarks. The ride takes about 10 minutes long and is a great way to end a day at Niagara Falls.

Get Ready for the Next Adventure with Some Rest and Relaxation

With all that you can do in one jam-packed day at Niagara Falls, you’ll want a comfortable place to catch some Zzzzs for the next adventure. Niagara Falls Hotels has all the top spots to stay in Niagara Falls for the best value. Book your trip now.

Canada is the place to go see hockey if you’re a fan of the sport. It contains 17 of the top 22 best spots in North America for hockey according to a recent report by travel site Expedia. It’s a global destination for hockey lovers throughout the world to visit and see where new hockey talent is being developed.

If you’re traveling from Toronto to Niagara Falls or from Buffalo to Niagara Falls, and you love hockey, or coming from anywhere in the world, there are a few hockey spots to put on your radar. You can visit the Hockey Hall of Fame close by, see local hockey stars in the making take the ice, and maybe even run into a player or two at a Niagara Falls diner.

Make hockey one of the top things to do in Niagara Falls on your next visit by checking out these hockey destinations.

Hockey Hall of Fame

Grab a rental car (or an Uber), and head to Toronto to see the Hockey Hall of Fame. It’s only about an hour-and-a-half away from Niagara Falls and is a great place to get immersed in professional hockey action. At the Hockey Hall of Fame, visitors can:

•  Go one-on-one against life-sized, animated versions of pro goalies and shooters
•  Call the play-by-play of memorable hockey goals
•  Watch hockey-themed movies
•  See the Stanley Cup up close
•  Explore the largest collection of hockey memorabilia in the world

The Hockey Hall of Fame is open almost every day of the year and is fun for the whole family. Learn about Hockey Hall of Fame inductees, and see equipment and uniforms they’ve actually used and worn.

Toronto Maple Leafs’ Scotiabank Arena

While you’re in Toronto, check out the Scotiabank Arena schedule. Scotiabank Arena is where the Toronto Maple Leafs play. The National Hockey League (NHL) regular season generally runs from early October to early April, and then Stanley Cup playoffs begin.

You can see the Maple Leafs play against your favorite team. The Leafs were founded in 1917 and made the playoffs the past two years. The team boasts some of the best players from all over the world, including Arizona-born Austin Matthews and Ontario local John Tavares along with Mitch Marner and Morgan Rielly. Depending on when you visit, you might be able to see a National Basketball Association Toronto Raptors game or National Lacrosse League Toronto Rock match here, too.

Buffalo Sabres’ KeyBank Center

If you’re traveling from Buffalo to Niagara Falls, you can catch an NHL game at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, where the Buffalo Sabres play. About a half-hour away from the Canada side of Niagara Falls. Compared to the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Buffalo Sabres are a much newer team, formed back in 1970. They’re scrappy and feisty, though, and also have lots of international hockey talent playing for their team.

The KeyBank Center is a top venue in Buffalo. Besides NHL games, it also hosts concerts by big names like Cher and Justin Timberlake.

Minor League Hockey in Niagara Falls

Down in the minor leagues, there’s also a ton of hockey talent. The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is the junior competition league in Niagara Falls. It’s home to the Niagara Icedogs and Hamilton Bulldogs, who are based in nearby Hamilton, about an hour away from Niagara Falls.

The regular season for the OHL runs from September through March and features several games a week at various venues. The OHL is a great league to watch to see up-and-comers who hope to make it into the NHL one day.

Gale Centre Arena in Niagara Falls

See where hockey superstars are made at the Gale Centre Arena in Niagara Falls. The arena hosts minor league hockey games for the Niagara Falls Minor Hockey Association Flyers, so you can see young hockey players who might head to the NHL one day in action.

Gale Centre Arena also hosts NHL hockey training and minor league hockey events, as well as special events like NHL alumni tours.

BlueLine Diner

When you want a bite to eat in Niagara Falls and also want to satiate your hockey fix, the BlueLine Diner in Niagara Falls is the place to go. The breakfast and lunch spot is owned by former NHL player Marcel Dionne, who is known to mix and mingle with customers.

Take a seat at one of the hockey-themed tables, and nosh on foods like pancakes, benedicts, omelettes and burgers. Many pro players have had a bite to eat there, including Ken Dryden, Paul Coffey and Wayne Gretzky.

Need a Break from the Action? Find a Niagara Falls Hotel

Complete your Niagara Falls hockey trip with a stay at a comfortable Niagara Falls Hotel. Check out our website for great deals on hotels in Niagara Falls. Visit the site regularly to see more fun things to do in Niagara Falls.

In just a few short months, the Niagara Falls weather will warm up, making for sunny spring days. Spring is an awesome time to visit Niagara Falls attractions. Here’s why:

• Temperatures start to climb, from around 41°F/5°C in March, to around 76°F/24°C in June.
• Free Niagara Falls nighttime fireworks shows kick off on May 17, 2019, featuring fireworks on Friday’s, Saturday’s and Sunday’s, plus Victoria Day on May 20 and Memorial Day on May 27.
• The plants and flowers that bloom in spring are amazing to behold. Get ready for a burst of colour at every turn!

Be sure to check out the following fun things to do in Niagara Falls Ontario when you visit in spring. And if you’re looking for the best place to stay in Niagara Falls, look no further than this site.

1. Floral Clock

The Floral Clock is located just north of the Botanical Garden Niagara Parks. It is re-planted twice a year, and in spring it blooms with more than 16,000 gorgeous carpet bedding plants. It’s free to check out this magnificent floral site, which boasts a working mechanical clock, complete with chimes every quarter hour.

2. Botanical Garden Niagara Parks

Speaking of the Botanical Garden, this place is a must-visit in spring. Walk along 40 hectares (99 acres) of beautiful gardens, which feature perennials, shade, herb and vegetable plantings, a formal parterre garden, azaleas and rhododendrons. You have to check out the famous rose garden, too, which has more than 2,400 roses just waiting for you to see and sniff them.

3. Shaw Festival

The Shaw Festival theatre season kicks off every April and features live theatre performances in three Niagara Falls theatres. You can score discounts when you buy packages starting at three plays or more. And beyond watching what’s on stage, you can check out special talks, workshops, backstage tours, children’s activities and more.

4. Spring Holidays

Niagara Falls is a great place to visit to celebrate spring holidays like Easter, Mother’s Day, Victoria Day and Father’s Day. Most Niagara Falls restaurants feature food and drink specials on holidays. If you head to Niagara Falls with loved ones who are celebrating, you can treat them to something special.

Niagara Falls is also a nice destination for holidays because there are so many free things to do in Niagara Falls. Take your family on a hike, visit a farmer’s market, or indulge in a wine or beer tasting.

5. Queen Victoria Park

Niagara Falls has been called the “Daffodil Capital of North America” for good reason. In spring, millions of white and yellow daffodils bloom in Queen Victoria Park, which is close to the Niagara Falls waterfalls. You can also check out a rock garden, a tea rose garden and plenty of international plants and gardens in this stunning park.

6. Centennial Lilac Garden

If you love flowers, you’re in for more of a treat at the Centennial Lilac Garden. It’s right by the Floral Clock and sits on 10 acres, with more than 1,200 plants in 200 varieties. The lilacs are a delight to the senses, beautiful to see and awesome to smell.

7. Niagara Falls Elvis Festival

Love Elvis? You have to check out the Niagara Falls Elvis Festival, April 26-28, 2019. Catch shows from the best Elvis tribute artists from around the world in a Las Vegas-style venue. Performers battle it out in a two-day Elvis competition. Visitors can enjoy yummy food and drinks as they watch the performances.

8. Hornblower Niagara Cruises

One of the coolest ways to experience the Niagara Falls waterfalls up-close is to hop on one of the Hornblower Niagara Cruises. The cruises kick off in spring and are a great time. You’ll get close to the waterfalls (don’t worry, protective clothing is provided), and you’ll be able to see the powerful rushing waters from a unique vantage point.

9. Whirlpool Aero Car

If you’re into cool views of Niagara Falls, you’ll also want to check out the Whirlpool Aero Car, which opens every spring. The aerial cable car travels between two points of the Canadian shore of the Niagara River, high above the Niagara Falls whirlpool. The Whirlpool Aero Car was built in 1913 and has been operating for more than 100 years.

Book a Visit at the Best Place to Stay in Niagara Falls

If you and your family or friends are looking for springtime fun, Niagara Falls is the place to be. It’s great for family-friendly activities, romantic time with a loved one, boisterous times with friends – anything you could ask for.

Seeing the springtime nature in bloom at Niagara Falls is something you have to experience. See more fun things to do in Niagara Falls Ontario, and book your stay today.

If you want a vacation that is just as affordable as it is fun, look no further than Niagara Falls. There are tons of free Niagara Falls attractions for the whole family, that enable you to learn about the area without taking a hit to your wallet.

Check out this list of Niagara Falls things to do, and create your own Niagara Falls pass that takes you around the region. Here are 12 fun things to do in Niagara Falls that are completely free, from Niagara Falls fireworks to wine tastings and tours.

1. Niagara Falls Waterfalls

Obviously, the biggest draw to heading to Niagara Falls is to check out the rushing waterfalls that make up this momentous sight. There are lots of free vantage points that let you see the falls via car or by foot, and every season and even time of day provides a new type of view.

2. Niagara Falls Fireworks

If you’re in Niagara Falls late spring through fall, you might be able to catch a free night-time Niagara Falls firework show. You can see the Niagara Falls fireworks schedule here. In summer months, there are free shows every night. It’s absolutely majestic to see bursting colors with the backdrop of Niagara Falls.

3. Niagara Falls Winery Tours

There are dozens of Niagara Falls wineries, with many serving the gotta-try ice wine. Ice wine is made from frozen grapes picked straight from the vine. You can sample wines like these at a free wine tasting or tour, offered by many Niagara Falls wineries.

4. Botanical Garden Niagara Parks

Stroll through more than 40 hectares (99 acres) of Niagara Falls plants and flowers at the Botanical Garden Niagara Parks, including a rose garden with more than 2,400 roses. See Niagara Falls perennials, herb and vegetable plantings, azaleas, rhododendrons and more.

5. Niagara Glen

Getting in touch with nature is one of the best ways to enjoy Niagara Falls. The Niagara Glen has been a designated nature reserve since 1992 and includes 4 km (2.5) of nature paths to explore. See Niagara Falls flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

6. Floral Clock

If you’re in Niagara Falls between April through September, check out the Floral Clock, a clock made completely of flowers. It’s just north of the Botanical Gardens and is made up of around 16,000 carpet bedding plants. The flowers are changed twice a year, so you can see something new when you visit.

7. Niagara Falls Farmers Market

Every Saturday morning, the Niagara Falls Farmers Market brings fresh produce and locally made goods to the public. Many vendors offer free samples of goodies like fresh strawberries, peppers and radishes, Niagara Falls honey and warm bread.

8. Hershey’s Chocolate World

Hershey’s Chocolate World is free fun for the whole family. This four-story shop features all things chocolate, and you can score a free sample of Hershey’s fudge. Seeing this many sweets in one place is something you’ll be sure to remember!

9. Dufferin Islands

Another gorgeous spot to enjoy Niagara Falls nature is Dufferin Islands, a secluded area spanning 10 acres. Traverse the group of small islands via bridges and footpaths, and encounter Niagara Falls wildlife like fish and birds among the indigenous vegetation. If you’re craving a respite from the hustle and bustle of busier tourist areas, this is the place to head.

10. Niagara Falls History Museum

Want to learn some Niagara Falls history? Head to the Niagara Falls History Museum on Thursday nights, when admission is free after 5 p.m. See exhibits featuring memorabilia from the War of 1812, plus community galleries and other special rotating exhibits.

11. Niagara River Recreation Trail

The Niagara River Recreation Trail is a lovely paved path that’s great for walking, biking, rollerblading or whatever you’re into. Travel routes along 53 km (35 miles) on the Canadian side of the Niagara River. The trail is divided into four scenic sections that each take around an hour or two to walk at a leisurely pace. It’s a great way to see the Niagara Falls region for free.

12. Clifton Hill

Nicknamed “The Street of Fun,” Clifton Hill is a bright, dazzling midway touting Niagara Falls attractions like karaoke, haunted houses, arcade games, thrilling rides and sweets shops. It’s free to walk around. If you’re into the buzz of entertainment and people having a blast, you’ll get energized just visiting this spot.

Book a Niagara Falls Trip

Visiting Niagara Falls doesn’t have to be expensive. There are so many free things to do in Niagara Falls everywhere you turn, from nature excursions to learning about Niagara Falls history.

If you want to visit this global destination, start planning your trip. Book a Niagara Falls hotel, and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime.

Light up your love this Valentine’s Day with a visit to one of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders, Niagara Falls! Thanks to Niagara Parks, the annual tradition of the Valentine’s Day illumination of the Falls with soft pink and red lights will once again set the backdrop for a romantic evening. Visitors can experience this themed light show on February 14^th beginning at 7p.m and it will continue throughout the evening at the top of each hour for 15 minutes at a time. The Valentine’s Day illumination is in addition to the regular nightly illumination of the Falls, which takes place from 5:15p.m to 2a.m that evening.

Don’t miss the opportunity to share this special moment with your sweetheart! With numerous hotel packages available, you’ll want to start planning your visit to Niagara Falls today!

Sure, you could check out the majestic sight of Niagara Falls from a cozy Niagara Falls hotel. But if you want to experience the awe-inspiring power of the water falls of Niagara Falls up-close-and-personal, the White Water Walk Niagara Falls puts visitors right in the heart of nature.

The White Water Walk is a quarter-mile boardwalk that brings visitors right by Great Gorge Rapids from the Canadian side of the Niagara River. This attraction is fun for the whole family and is part of the Niagara Parks Adventure Pass, a deal that gets Niagara Falls visitors to cool adventure destinations for a fraction of the usual price.

If you’ve never been to the White Water Walk and are planning a trip to Niagara Falls, learn why this cool attraction is one to plan for.

What Is the White Water Walk?

The White Water Walk is a self-guided tour providing a unique vantage point of the Niagara River. Visitors take an elevator 230 feet (70m) to the base of the Niagara Gorge and then are able to walk the White Water Walk path at their leisure.

There are several observation areas along the walk where visitors can get stellar views of Niagara Falls and see the whirlpool below. There are also informational plaques along the walk explaining stories about people who have attempted to cross Niagara River. You can also read stories about the geology of Niagara Gorge and learn details about plant and animal life you might encounter at Niagara Falls.

No matter how many times you see Niagara Falls outside and in person, every different point of view you can look at it from provides new things to discover. The White Water Walk pairs spectacular views, including those of 410-million-year-old rock formations, with the sounds of rushing waters from the Class 6 white-water rapids of the Niagara River. The whirlpool rapids travel at 48 km/hour, making them a majestic sight to take in.

How to Prepare for the White Water Walk

The White Water Walk is flat and only a quarter-mile long. This makes it a suitable distance for all ages and fitness abilities, though you may still want to check with a physician before embarking on any nature fitness activities.

Proper footwear, like sneakers or closed-toed shoes, are recommended. Especially when temperatures drop and weather becomes cooler, you’ll want warm shoes when you’re so close to the rushing water.

Any spot you visit on the White Water Walk will provide great views, so even if you don’t actually walk the White Water Walk, you’ll still gain a great experience from getting so close to the water.

How Much Does a White Water Walk Visit Cost?

Entrance into the White Water Walk Niagara Falls is around $10.50USD/$14CAD for adults and around $6.50USD/$9CAD for kids ages 6 to 12.

In spring 2019, the Niagara Parks Adventure Pass will also be available. For $90USD for those 13 years and older, and $59USD for children ages 6 to 12, pass holders will get access to top Niagara Falls heritage sites and the White Water Walk. Visitors can save up to 52 percent on attractions by purchasing the pass. All kids ages 5 and younger get free access when they’re accompanying an adult who has the pass.

The Niagara Parks Adventure Pass Plus is valid from April 16, 2019 to November 3, 2019. It includes unlimited access to the Falls Incline Railway for two consecutive days. It also includes entrance to:

• Hornblower Niagara Cruises
• Journey Behind the Falls
• Niagara’s Fury
• White Water Walk
• Whirlpool Aero Car
• Floral Showhouse
• Butterfly Conservatory
• Old Fort Erie
• Laura Secord Homestead
• Mackenzie Printery
• McFarland House

The pass also provides two consecutive days aboard WEGO transportation, including the Niagara-on-the-Lake extension.

There is also a “classic” version of the Niagara Parks Adventure Pass, which includes the White Water Walk and enables passholders to save more than 27 percent on pricing.

Remember to check operating hours for the White Water Walk before visiting. During winter months, it’s typically not open.

Plan a Niagara Falls Nature Trip

Seeing nature in person in Niagara Falls is a must-do activity if you and your family are able to. The White Water Walk Niagara Falls is a great intro-to-nature excursion. It’s ideal for all sorts of fitness levels, and kids will love walking the boardwalk to be close to the water.

Niagara Falls is full of many more amazing parks and adventures like ziplining, cruises and hiking. If breweries and wineries are more your thing, there are plenty of those, too. Or choose from fine dining, nightlife, casino gaming and other ways to have a blast in Niagara Falls. Check out so many more fun things to do in Niagara Falls here.

You might be in Toronto because you live there or because you’re visiting. It doesn’t matter what the reason is – Niagara Falls is close by, so being in Toronto is a great time to visit Niagara Falls, too.

Going from Toronto to Niagara Falls (or Niagara Falls to Toronto) is only a short hour-and-a-half drive, on average. The cities are around 72 miles/110km apart, so there’s easy access.

You can even make a Niagara Falls trip from Toronto and head back the same day. Here’s how to plan a trip visiting Niagara Falls from Toronto.

How to Get to Niagara Falls from Toronto

If you have access to a car or rent one, you can hop on the QEW highway that connects Toronto to Niagara Falls. It’s typically fast and direct.

If you’re craving a more scenic option, you can take Highway 81 from around St. Catharines. As you drive, take in views of countryside and wine country. Just make sure not to drink and drive if you stop and sip. Always have a designated driver, especially when the wines along this route are as tasty as they are!

You can also hop on the Go Transit public transit to take a train/bus route between Toronto and Niagara Falls. Or, check out a shuttle bus at the Toronto Pearson International Airport. Since lots of Niagara Falls visitors fly in to this airport, there are plenty of transportation options to Niagara Falls here.

If you have time to stop on your journey between Toronto and Niagara Falls, here are some places to consider.

• Burlington is a stop on the QEW and is about an hour away from Toronto. You can check out the Royal Botanical Gardens here that span 400 acres.
• Hamilton is the halfway point between Niagara Falls to Toronto. You can find waterside steel factories, visit an art gallery or check out some heritage museums.
• If you want to check out the Niagara wine region, head to towns like Grimsby, Beamsville, Jordan and Vineland. They’re all accessible via Highway 81.

In addition to getting there yourself or via public transport, there are also various companies offering day tours from Toronto to Niagara Falls. Talk with a Niagara Falls hotels concierge about ones they’d recommend.

What to Do on a Quick Trip to Niagara Falls

Ideal things to do in Niagara Falls will depend on several factors – like if you’ve ever been there before, how much time you have and who you’re traveling with. Here are some ideas.

If It’s Your First Time in Niagara Falls

If this is your first time, make the actual Niagara Falls a priority. Check out the Journey Behind the Falls tour to check out observation decks right by the falls.

You could also take a trip on Hornblower Niagara Cruises, which sail within the Niagara Great Gorge and get trip-takers super-close to the water. It’s a breathtaking sight, for sure.

If You’re a Nature Lover

Getting close to nature is easy in the Niagara Falls area. Head to the Botanical Garden Niagara Parks to walk through 40 hectares (99 acres) of gorgeous gardens. There’s even a world-famous rose garden, which has more than 2,400 roses to stop, sniff and enjoy!

You should also visit the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory, which has more than 2,000 butterflies moving through a climate-controlled conservatory.

If the Whole Family Is Here

Niagara Falls has so many family-friendly activities to check out. Research this list to see what would make your family the happiest to check out.

• Fallsview Indoor Waterpark
• Adventure City
• Hershey’s Chocolate World Niagara Falls
• The Fun Factory Niagara Falls
• The Great Canadian Midway

These are many more ways to have an all-ages blast in Niagara Falls. You could also go to the White Water Walk, which is an easy walk for all ages and skill levels and gets you close to Niagara Falls nature and the Niagara River.

If You’ve Already Done the Niagara Falls Tourist Thing

If you’ve been to Niagara Falls plenty and want to explore something a little different, try some off-the-beaten path Niagara Falls spots.

• White Meadows Farms: See how maple syrup is made, and taste it on site.
• La Grande Hermine: Check out this historical replica of a pirate ship.
• Village of Chippawa: This close-knit village has unique local shopping options and community events.

Everywhere you turn in Niagara Falls, there’s always something new to discover. If you are close by, there’s a reason to come from Toronto to Niagara Falls on every trip.

Plan a Niagara Falls Day – or Several – Now

One visit to Niagara Falls is never enough. If your Niagara Falls trip ends up being so much fun, you want to add on extra days, that’s never a problem. There are plenty of Niagara Falls hotels to choose from that offer comfortable rooms and great service.

Peller Estates is one of the most popular wineries in Niagara Falls. If you’re a wine lover, you should not miss this spot.

About Peller Estates

Peller Estates started in 1925 when Andrew Peller arrived in Canada from Hungary. Andrew Peller was a successful businessman in Hungary but came to Canada to pursue his dream of producing high-quality wine for people all over the world to enjoy. He loved how Europeans appreciated, longed and loved to share their wines and wanted to bring that same feeling to Canada.

He researched for years before finally deciding to plant his first vineyard in the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia. Soon after its opening, he planted another more modest vineyard nearby as well. After years of success, Andrew Peller had his eyes and heart set on the East. In 1969, he purchased a winery and winemaking license in Ontario, and the rest is history.

For over 50 years, Peller Estates has carried the tradition of crafting wine with an uncommon commitment to quality. Year after year, the winery is rewarded for their painstaking efforts to create some of the best wines in the north. They even won Canadian Winery of the Year at London’s International Wine & Spirit Competition.

From the moment you walk into the winery, you’ll notice a difference. Everything is handled with care, the staff truly cares about their craft, and the winery is upheld to the highest of standards.

A vast majority of our guests love to visit Peller Estates and take in all of the history and flavors that it has to offer.

What to do at Peller Estates

Peller Estates is filled with things to do. If you have your hearts set on Peller Estates ice wine or any other type of wine, you can sip away all day long. If you’re looking for a true Peller Estates experience, try one of the following.

Tastings & Tours

Peller Estates offers one of the best Niagara wine tours. They have over nine tour packages to choose from that are tailored to your specific experience. If you’re headed to Niagara with the girls, their Girls’ Wine Weekend tour will help you max out on fun. If you’re here with a significant other, the Couples Wine Country Escape will help you make the most out of your special time together. If you love to experience perfect wine pairings, the Wine, Cheese & Chocolate package will help you become the hostess with the mostess. Whatever your situation, there’s a tour for it.

Winery Restaurant

The Winery Restaurant at Peller Estates is always open to visitors, but it occasionally hosts special events that can make your experience even more luxurious. Along with a 5-star menu, you can partake in a Culinary Adventure with Chef Jason Parsons, dine with a large group, and also reserve the space for your next special event.

Wine Club

If and when you fall in love with Peller Estates, you can join their wine club. This club allows you to receive a quarterly delivery of wine from the Estates that are customized to your exact liking. Now, you can get a little bit of Peller Estates year-round.

Wine Country

Peller Estates has tours specially designed to explore Niagara’s Wine Country. If you’re new to the area, these tours can take the guesswork out of your trip so can enjoy the country without fuss. They have created itineraries that include unique experiences at Trius, Peller Estates, Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery and Distillery and Thirty Bench Wine Makers. If you’re traveling in a group, these tours make the day easy and fun for all.

When to Visit Peller Estates

There’s no bad time to visit Peller Estates. During the winter, there are many Peller ice wine tours that really help you get in the spirit of the holidays. In the spring, the vineyards begin to open again for amazing tours and unforgettable views. During the summer, you can enjoy Peller Estates with the beautiful sun as your guide. And, in the fall, the leaves begin to change and create stunning views from the moment you step inside.

If you’re looking for exciting events at Peller Estates, click here. There are year-round events that pay homage to the history of the land and the amazing flavors of the wine. No matter what your experience with wine is, there are tons of events that will maximize your experience at Peller Estates.

Plan a Visit to Peller Estates

Now that you’re an expert on all things Peller Estates, it’s time to book a visit. Peller Estates is just a short drive away from our hotels. Create a wine-lovers vacation packed with amenities at any one of the hotels in Niagara. Start planning your trip now! Book your stay.