Category: Niagara Falls Hotels

Summer is jam packed with events but one you won’t want to miss is the Falls Fireworks Illuminations. All throughout the summer you can catch a glimpse of the Falls in an unforgettable way — lit up by beautiful fireworks.

The fireworks display takes place every Friday and Sunday evening through the summer, but special holiday shows occur on:

• Canada Day – July 1
• Independence Day – July 4
• Civic Holiday – August 4
• Labor Day – September 1

Once you’ve picked when you will take your trip, the next part is figuring out the best place to view Niagara Falls fireworks. In truth, you can see the illuminations from nearly anywhere in the city, and no matter where you catch a glimpse of them, you’ll be thrilled by the light and color. However, there are a few extra-special spots with incredible sightlines, to include:

Niagara Parkway

The Niagara Parkway is the main thoroughfare through Niagara Falls — for motorists and pedestrians alike. The road follows the Niagara River through Ontario, providing amazing all-angle views of Niagara Falls and plenty of other attractions, including Clifton Hill and a few dozen Niagara wineries. The Parkway is the oldest path in Ontario, even dating back before Europeans began settling in the area. Today, you can walk the Parkway during the day to enjoy the stunning landscaping and fascinating scenery — or, even better, you can take a nighttime stroll and enjoy the fireworks over Niagara Falls.

The Table Rock Welcome Centre

Ideally one of your first stops in Canada, the Table Rock Welcome Centre is perhaps the best place to see Niagara Falls — as well as the fireworks in Niagara Falls. One of several welcome centres around the Niagara Parks, Table Rock sees the most visitors thanks to its stunning location. During special event days, the centre boasts live music in addition to the concert, so you can enjoy exciting accompaniment to the flashes and bangs. No matter when you visit, you can sit on the grass, enjoy some ice cream, and watch the fireworks explode high above the falls right in front of you.

Hornblower Niagara Cruises

When the sun is up, you can’t miss taking a boat ride to the base of the falls and feeling the thundering waters all around you. However, when night comes, most of the Niagara cruises close — except Hornblower. This brand-new experience gives you the chance to see the Niagara Falls firework high above as you cruise in the water below. A beloved and best place to view Niagara Falls is swiftly becoming the best place to watch illuminations thanks to this new tour option from Hornblower Cruises.

Windows by Jaime Kennedy

You don’t have to be outside to see the fireworks over Niagara Falls; if you book a table at the renowned Niagara Falls restaurant, Windows by Jamie Kennedy, you can enjoy fine wining and dining while watching the show. Appropriately named for its floor-to-ceiling glass that provides an amazing panorama of the falls, Windows is also celebrated for its hand-crafted meals and cocktails. Chef Jaime Kennedy draws inspiration from the fertile lands of the Niagara region, which produce much of the food and drink you’ll see on your table. It’s easy to fall in love with Niagara when you can use all five senses to experience its beauty.

Niagara SkyWheel

Located on Clifton Hill, the Niagara SkyWheel is easily Canada’s largest observation wheel, taking riders up more than 175 feet over the Niagara horizon. Unlike other Ferris wheels, the SkyWheel provides a completely enclosed, temperature-controlled environment. During the day, you can catch birds-eye views of Horseshoe, Bridal Veil, and American Falls as well as see the snaking Niagara River far into the distance. At night, you can relax in comfort as the fireworks explode over Niagara.

Rainbow Bridge

In itself a Niagara landmark, the Rainbow Bridge connects the New York side of Niagara Falls with the Ontario side. Slightly downriver from the falls, the bridge is the best place to see Niagara Falls in panorama: You can take snapshots that include all three waterfalls, Goat Island, and the Niagara Falls, Ontario skyline if you angle your camera just right. From this spot, you are far enough away to avoid the shuddering bangs of the fireworks, and you can take amazing pictures of the whole of Niagara illuminated in vibrant color.

For most folks, Niagara Falls is on the bucket list for how it looks during the day. However, that doesn’t mean you should tuck into bed as soon as the sun sets. The dazzling Falls Fireworks Illuminations are just one reason you should explore Niagara after dark. With fewer people pacing the Niagara streets, you can enjoy a more intimate view of the city and enjoy a special look at the falls reflecting colorful lights. To see this magic firsthand, book a trip to Niagara Falls today.

A summer visit to Niagara Falls isn’t complete without a visit to wine country  in Niagara-on-the-Lake, and there are plenty of unique festivals and events happening throughout the summer that will connect you with the best wine experiences that Niagara has to offer.

Sip & Sizzle

Running from May 5-28, the Sip & Sizzle winery event in Niagara-on-the-Lake will be offering guests a unique summer wine experience with over 20 wineries serving up delicious grilled food with specially selected VQA wine pairings. You can expect pairings like Inniskillin Wines’ 2013 Reserve Shiraz Cabernet served with a grilled chicken taco, and Chateau des Charmes’ 2016 Sauvignon Blanc paired with a grilled prawn, shoot, and sprout salad, and many more.

You can experience a guided Sip & Sizzle aboard a luxury tour bus with Magnificent Tours of Niagara, Niagara’s largest tour company:

Sip and Sizzle Wine Tour

Savour the Sights

Jackson-Triggs Winery will be hosting their Savour the Sights event on May 13 and June 3, featuring five courses of remarkable cuisine and fine wine served in beautiful locations throughout the winery grounds.

Decked Out at Creekside Estate Winery

Visit Creekside Estate Winery on June 2 for their Decked Out event which will feature wine, food, and live music along with special early access to June’s Creek Freek shipment. The winery’s covered deck offers expansive views of the winery’s vineyards and this evening will be the perfect chance to experience it in style.

Graze the Bench

Over 8 Niagara wineries will be participating in this year’s Graze the Bench event, taking place from June 3-4. These wineries will be pouring their favourite vintages, both old and new, and serving them alongside delicious culinary dishes. There will also be live music to enjoy and lively atmospheres, making for a wonderful weekend event for wine lovers and foodies.

Niagara Homegrown Wine Festival

This year’s Niagara Homegrown Wine Festival will be taking place from June 7-8 in Niagara-on-the-Lake and is a great place to celebrate the start of summer with friends. Participating wineries include:

• 13th Street Winery
• Colaneri Estate Winery
• Creekside Estate Winery
• Fielding Estate Winery
• Inniskillin Wines

and more. The festival will allow guests to experience amazing seasonal wines and features special events like the TD Tailgate Party where over 35 Niagara wineries will be serving up incredible food and wine pairings.

Thrilling Across Niagara Falls

WildPlay MistRider Zipline to the Falls

Whirlpool Jet Boat

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

For many people, a vacation is a time to let loose. They might abandon their diet, drink more than they usually do, and suspend their exercise program. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with this because, after all, vacations are meant to be fun, but for others it’s not quite the way they prefer to spend their vacation.

Niagara Falls not only offers visitors the chance to let their hair down but it’s also extremely easy for health-conscious travellers to maintain their usual routine while still enjoying everything the area has to offer. Additionally, this is a great opportunity to explore new restaurants, get outdoors, and experience Niagara in a very different way.

If you have an upcoming vacation to Niagara Falls these are some great ways you can maintain your healthy lifestyle without sacrificing the enjoyment that a vacation should be all about.

Healthy Eats

Niagara Falls has no shortage of restaurants and almost every type of cuisine is represented here. This also includes many options for vegetarians and vegans. Many of the area’s top restaurants have vegetarian or vegan options on their extensive menus but if you want to visit a restaurant that caters specifically to your dietary preferences then you’re in luck.

One of the most popular cuisines for vegans and vegetarians is Indian and there are several Indian restaurants in Niagara Falls. Passage to India and Curry Queen Indian Cuisine are two of the most popular. You’ll also find Mediterranean food at Pita Pit and Sahara, both of which offer delicious meat-free options.

Spa Experiences

Treating yourself to a spa experience is something everyone should consider while on vacation but visiting one of Niagara Falls spas can be an entirely different experience. Whether you’re in dire need of an expert massage or want a healthy skin treatment you’ll have no problem finding a spa that suits your needs.

However, if you want something more luxurious consider a visit to the Christienne Fallsview Spa in the Sheraton Fallsview hotel. With a priceless view of the falls and a wide range of services including full body skin treatments, massage, nail treatments, and more this is one experience that you’ll definitely want to add to your itinerary. Visit their website to view their packages and special offers as well.

Get Outdoors

Maintaining your exercise schedule is no problem in Niagara Falls. Not only can you keep your FitBit happy by walking all over the town to see the sights, but there are a number of other ways to get some exercise in while you’re here.

Hiking along the river is another way to exercise but it might not feel like it as you explore the many trails. Some of the more popular trails are the Whirlpool Trail and Devil’s Hole Trail. This is a more strenuous hike with many steps and stairs. Experts advise that you should be cautious on this trail as there have been instances where people have fallen into the river and you should always bring water and let someone where you’re going.

Go Ride a Bike

Biking is not only a great way to get around the city but you’ll burn calories while you’re at it. Bike rentals are widely available throughout the city and you can choose from a simple cruiser to a more robust mountain bike. Rentals can vary from a day to a week or any time that’s convenient for you.

In addition to biking around the city, you can also get out of town and enjoy the countryside. The Niagara Parkway is a wonderful place to ride and there are numerous restaurants and shops along the way. You can also go on a winery tour by bicycle. As you cycle from winery to winery you can sample the wines and many offer hors d’oeuvres as well to keep your energy up.

Make Use of Your Hotel’s Gym

If you prefer to exercise in peace and like to set aside time for your workout routine then your hotel’s gym is the place for you. Almost every hotel in Niagara Falls has some variation of a gym with much of the equipment that you’re familiar with:

• Treadmills
• Stair Steppers
• Free Weights

and more are there for your use, so why not take advantage?

Exercising this way also means that if you’re with your family or a group you can your own time to work out without compromising any schedule you might have. This means you don’t have to sacrifice your exercise schedule and can still join in on all the fun.

Whether you book an appointment at one of the many Niagara Falls spas, rent a bike during your stay, or visit one of Niagara’s veggie-friendly restaurants there are many ways to make your visit a healthy one. So utilize these tips and enjoy your vacation without sacrificing your lifestyle.

The Niagara Region has been named the host of the 2021 Canada Summer Games, which are one of the country’s largest and most prominent sporting competitions and are held every two years, alternating between summer and winter events. In 2021, young amateur athletes from throughout the country will be coming to Niagara to represent their province or territory and compete in sports like basketball, soccer, track and field, rowing, tennis, volleyball, baseball, cycling, golf, diving, and more.

The inaugural Canada Games were held in 1967 in Quebec City, and since then have developed into one of Canada’s most important multi-sport competitions, fostering many athletes who go on to represent Canada in the Olympic games. This will be a great time to book a getaway to Niagara Falls, as visitors and locals will be able to get tickets and watch a variety of sporting events happening throughout this amazing region while still experiencing all of the sites and attractions that it has to offer.

And to keep up to date with the latest Canada Games news and get in on the conversation, make sure to use the hashtags #NiagaraAreYouIn, #CanadaGames, #WeAreIn, and #ExploreNiagara on social media, and also follow @Niagara2021 and @CanadaGames on Twitter.

Here are three wonderful day-trip destinations closeby to Niagara Falls, which will add fun and excitement to any Niagara getaway:

Toronto

Toronto is a lively city located an hour and a half’s drive away from Niagara Falls. The bustling capital of Ontario offers an endless list of unique and exciting things to see and do and is a perfect day-trip destination. Visit the city to experience some of the country’s best dining, entertainment, and shopping at destinations like Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, Ontario Science Centre, Hockey Hall of Fame, Distillery District, Kensington Market, and the Eaton Centre.

Buffalo, New York

Located at the head of the Niagara River and right across the border from Fort Erie, Ontario, Buffalo is a great city that makes for a fun-filled day-trip. Highlights of this upstate New York city include the Albright-Knox Art Gallery featuring amazing modern and contemporary art from artists like Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Frida Kahlo;

The Darwin D. Martin House Complex designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, famous American architect of  the “Fallingwater” house and the Guggenheim Museum; the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens; and more. You can also visit the city to catch a Buffalo Sabres or Buffalo Bills game and experience diverse and delicious cuisine.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming and picturesque town located a short 25-minute drive away from Niagara Falls. This world-famous wine-growing region offers amazing winery experiences that include tastings, tours, and exquisite dining as well as historical experiences at sites like Fort George and Queenston Heights. And this year starting in April, visitors can catch world-class theatre performances at the famous Shaw Festival Theatre, which puts on incredible plays from playwright George Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries.

When many people travel the process is quite similar across the board. Arrive at destination, collect baggage, head to rental car desk. Having a rental car is very much an integral part of the way we travel. Many travelers don’t even hesitate when adding a rental car to their booking; it’s just simply what they’ve always done.

However, rental cars can be expensive, especially in popular destinations and during high season. Parking fees can quickly add up and sometimes even finding a place to park can be a headache. Niagara Falls is no different. As one of the most popular destinations in North America the streets can be crowded, parking lots fill quickly, and traffic can be difficult. So why bother with a car?

Niagara Falls has a comprehensive public transportation system that eliminates many of the needs for a rental car. So read below to learn more about how you can have access to the entire city and leave most of the driving to us.

Bicycle

Biking is not only an easy way to get from point A to point B but it also allows you to slow down a bit and take in the sights while you ride. Renting a bike is easy as there are several centrally located shops that will loan you a sturdy bike and helmet with hourly or daily rates to suit your needs.

Although most bike rental companies are open only during the warmer months, this is still an easy, fun, green, and effective way to see Niagara at your own pace and have a little fun doing it. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, take a spin down the Niagara Parkway, get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy the beautiful Niagara landscape and scenery.

Bus Service

Niagara Falls wants to make it as easy as possible for visitors to get around with ease and have done just that with the WEGO bus system. The WEGO bus is one of the keystones of the Niagara Falls transportation system, and is simple and easy to use. The bus system hits all the major sights and attractions. In addition, their busses offer bike racks and a convenient app to plan your route.

The fares are simple; it’s $7.50 per person 13 or older, $4.50 for people younger than 12, and children under 5 ride for free. These fares are in Canadian dollars and the pass is good for 24 hours. WEGO often has special promotions and offers so be sure to ask your hotel concierge about ways you can save even more money on your transportation costs.

Taxi, Uber, and Lyft

Just like any city or popular travel destination, Niagara Falls has several taxi and limousine companies to suit your needs. Taxis can be easily hailed on the street or a member of your hotel staff can call one for you. If your needs require a larger vehicle it’s best to book a van or limo to get your and your group where you need to be.

For those who prefer to use their smartphones for transportation Uber and Lyft are both available in Niagara. Uber X serves the entire Niagara region including both the Canadian and the United States sides of the falls. Lyft offers similar options so you can use your app to keep things simple.

Your Own Two Feet

One of the easiest and cheapest ways to get around Niagara is on your own two feet. Niagara Falls is an exceptionally walkable city and not only do you get to explore at your leisure but you’re not encumbered by traffic or wait times when Uber is busy, and it’s totally free.

Because of Niagara’s relatively compact size it’s easy to walk from your hotel to view the falls, head over to the Botanical Gardens, stop in at one of the many restaurants for lunch, then walk back. Not only do you get to slow down and take it all in but you’re getting your daily dose of exercise as well.

The city planners in the Niagara area have gone to great lengths to make sure that visitors have safe, reliable options and choices when it comes to getting around the city. With the WEGO bus system and biking and walking choices visitors have actually helped to create a more sustainable transport system that has resulted in fewer cars on the street, less congestion, and fewer emissions.

So when you’re planning your Niagara Falls vacation skip the car rental. Not only will it save you money but it will free you from the responsibilities of driving, parking, and, inevitably, trying to find your keys. Instead, take the bus, rent a bike, or walk. You’ll see more of Niagara than would otherwise and experience this charming little city in an entirely new way.

Niagara was the site of many historic battles during War of 1812, and a visit to the region this spring or summer is the perfect opportunity to connect with history and visit important sites around the area. Here are some of the best places to check out for a well-rounded journey that will teach you all about Niagara’s involvement in the War of 1812:

Fort George

It was during the Battle of Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake that American forces managed to defeat British forces to capture Fort George and use it as a base in their invasion of Upper Canada. Fort George was eventually recaptured by British forces and today, operates as a Canadian National Historic Site. People can visit and tour the fort and experience it as it was in 1812 with the staff dressed in period costume and trained in firing drills. The Battle of Fort George is a major part of the region’s history and a visit to the site is a must-do activity for anyone looking to have a unique educational experience.

Laura Secord Homestead

Laura Secord is a celebrated Canadian heroine who, during the War of 1812, walked 32km to warn British forces of an impending attack from the Americans. It was Secord’s warning that helped British forces repel the attack and because of these brave efforts she is now regarded as an important Canadian historical figure. Visitors can learn more about Secord’s background and story by touring her homestead in Queenston, which has been turned into a museum.

Queenston Heights & Brock’s Monument

Queenston Heights was where the first major battle of the War of 1812 took place and is the site of Brock’s Monument, as well as a monument honouring Laura Secord. Brock’s Monument was constructed in honour of Major General Sir Isaac Brock who was a British officer put in charge of defending Upper Canada against the Americans during the War of 1812. Brock died during the Battle of Queenston Heights and the 56-metre high Brock’s Monument is where he was interred. Visitors can climb to the top of the limestone structure, which consists of a 235-step staircase, and experience incredible views of Niagara from portholes in the monument walls.

Lundy’s Lane

The Battle of Lundy’s Lane was an extremely bloody battle during the War of 1812 and is regarded as one of the deadliest battles that has ever occurred in Canada. Lundy’s Lane in Niagara Falls, Ontario is now a designated National Historic Site of Canada and people can still visit a part of the battlefield that has been preserved next to the Drummond Hill Cemetery. The Niagara Falls History Museum is also located on Lundy’s Lane and is a great place to visit to learn more about the region’s history and the historic battles that occurred during the War of 1812. 

Niagara Falls and the surrounding areas provide a wealth of opportunities for fun and adventure. Some people visit for the family friendly activities, some visit for the exceptional wine and food, and others visit to dance the night away and try their luck at the casinos.

It can be difficult to see and do all the amazing things Niagara has to offer so most people have to plan their itineraries to suit their needs and the time they have during their visit. Unfortunately, that means that some activities don’t make the list.

However, one activity that should always make the cut is a Niagara Falls boat ride. There really is no better way to experience the falls than aboard one of the boats that carries you right to the base of the falls and is a sight like no other.

When you’re planning your visit to Niagara Falls and considering the activities you want to experience these are four reasons why a Niagara Falls boat ride should always make the cut.

1. Picture This

One of the best things about Niagara is the abundance of viewpoints where you can see the falls in all their glory from a variety of angles. This is one of the reasons why photographers love to visit; no matter where they are there’s always a new perspective from which to shoot amazing pictures.

However, the shots that one can get from the boat as it cruises along the base of the falls are simply stunning. Photos taken from this perspective perfectly display the sheer power and beauty of the crashing water as it plunges into the river. Be sure to have adequate waterproofing equipment for your camera and try to get a spot on the top of the boat to avoid people’s heads in your shots.

And keep your fingers crossed that you get that once in a lifetime shot of the mesmerizing rainbows created by the mist and spray.

2. Your Kids Will Love It

Your kids are bound to love just about everything during their trip to Niagara Falls, except the always inevitable bedtime. But a Niagara Falls boat ride is something that is bound to elicit squeals and howls of joy and wonder and you as a parent always love to see that in your children.

Kids don’t care about their hair getting wet, they don’t care that there’s water in their shoes, all they care about is the incredible sight of millions of gallons of water falling down right in front of their eyes. You can prepare them with a little bit of knowledge about the geology of the falls but at the end of the trip when they’re soaking wet and grinning from ear to ear all that matters is that they just had one of the best experiences of their young lives.

3. A Special Place for a Special Experience

One of the most iconic and memorable moments in the television world was the perfect episode of “The Office” when Pam and Jim got married on a Niagara Falls boat tour. If you and your partner are willing to almost literally take the plunge at the base of the falls, Niagara Cruises can make that happen, although it might take more planning than it did for Pam and Jim.

Another great idea is to arrange a marriage proposal while on the boat. Imagine yourself down on one knee as you propose to the love of your life, all the while surrounded by the spectacular beauty of the falls. This would definitely be a truly special experience and one that the both of you will never forget, but consider hiring a local photographer to document it for you anyway.

4. Add Your Name to a Long and Famous List

Perhaps not everyone gets excited when they realize that they’ve had an experience or been in a place where celebrities have also been, but for some people it’s an “I was there too” moment. Countless famous people from royalty to movie stars have taken a Niagara Falls boat ride and you can add your name to that iconic list.

Princess Diana took her young sons, William and Harry, on a Niagara boat cruise. Marilyn Monroe and Robert Redford have been there too. Famous horror writer Stephen King has added the cruise to his long list of experiences, and the actual Stanley Cup was brought on board the Maid of the Mist by Dan Paille in 2011 after the Boston Bruins claimed the win. Other distinguished guests include Stephen Hawking, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Sir Richard Branson, and Denzel Washington, just to name a few.

Niagara Falls is full of fun things to do for everyone but one activity that should always make the list is a Niagara Falls boat ride. Be sure to add this to your itinerary so you don’t miss out on the best way to experience the magnificent and mighty Niagara Falls.

July 1st is Canada Day and this year the country’s celebrating a major milestone with the 150th anniversary of Confederation. In 1867, following the Charlottetown and Quebec conferences, the British colonies of Canada, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick were united into one federal state forming the Dominion of Canada. And now, 150 years later, we are gearing up to celebrate the sesquicentennial of our great nation with exciting activities, festivities, and fanfare all across the country.

The city of Niagara Falls will be celebrating this special day with a number of exciting events and festivities organized and put on by the city’s newly formed Canada 150th Committee. The city has allocated $150,000 for this celebration and many plans are in the works to make it an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors. These plans include decorating the city with 150 light pole banners, an art exhibition featuring Canadian art, and great music from local musicians. Many more exciting events and activities will be announced in the coming months and visitors can expect Niagara Falls to be a beautiful and exciting place to celebrate the day.

Canadians all across the country will be celebrating this special day in unique and thrilling ways, and if you have the chance to experience the 150th anniversary of confederation in an iconic Canadian city like Ottawa, Toronto, or Niagara Falls, you won’t be disappointed.