Niagara Falls is, without a doubt, one of the most popular vacation destinations in Canada, and so many people from around the world make it a point to see these incredible waterfalls at least once in their lifetime. So keep reading to learn more about what you can expect when you visit Niagara Falls for the first time.
Get as Close to the Falls as Possible with the Maid of the Mist
Do you want to have an up-close-and-personal experience with Niagara Falls? If so then you absolutely need to take an exhilarating ride on the famous Maid of the Mist. You will buy your ticket to ride a coal-powered steamboat that will take you all the way to the base of the waterfalls. You will get wet, but protective rain gear is provided and you will never forget this experience. So, while you can certainly see the Niagara Falls from the sidewalk, if you want to get an even better view and also feel their power, you should not miss out on a Maid of the Mist trip.
See Niagara Falls from the Back
In addition to getting on a Maid of the Mist tour, you can get a whole other view of the Falls by booking a trip with the Journey Behind the Falls. On this exciting and unforgettable excursion, you will have the opportunity to stand right behind the sheet of roaring water as it falls. The tour begins with an elevator ride that will take you to an incredible observation deck to view the Falls from above, and from there you will be able to see the Niagara River and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, so bring your camera. The tour continues through a series of caverns, so you will be able to see the Falls from a whole new perspective.
With so many Niagara Falls hotel deals, you can rest assured that you will not have to break the bank by booking your trip there.
Visit the Skylon Tower for Sky-High Views
Another one of the main attractions at Niagara Falls is the Skylon Tower, which will give you spectacular views of the Falls from way up high. You can’t miss this tower against the Ontario skyline, as it rises 775 feet into the air. Visit the outdoor or indoor observation deck and dine in the lovely revolving restaurant for a really unique experience too. A lot of visitors enjoy heading up to the Skylon Tower after nightfall, as they can see the brilliantly lit waterfalls in a whole new way.
Head Over to the Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Conservatory
When you are done viewing the Niagara Falls from every possible angle, it is time to explore other attractions in the area. A couple of the most sought-after sites are the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and the Butterfly Conservatory, which is perfect for visitors of all ages. You can find the gardens north of the Falls, but the Butterfly Conservatory is a couple extra miles further north. Check out the Botanical Gardens daily from sunrise to sunset for free, but the Butterfly Conservatory does charge a fee and its operating hours vary depending upon the season. Whether you choose to see one attraction or both, if you are a nature lover, you will be in your element in either one.
Have Some Fun at the Casino
Another way to enjoy Niagara Falls is by heading over to the Niagara Fallsview Casino, conveniently located on Fallsview Boulevard, west of the Skylon Tower. You can get in for free, but if you want to play some of the games, you will need to pay. If you are not into gambling, you can go shopping instead, as the casino also features 225,000 feet of retail space. The Avalon Ballroom hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, throughout the year, so see if anything interesting is going on while you are there. And on top of all of that, there is plenty of dining to choose from, along with a golf course and a spa.
When planning your first trip to Niagara Falls, be sure to do your research, as there are so many really fun and unique experiences that you can enjoy during your time there. If you rush the planning process, you might miss out on some of the many attractions that make this destination such a popular one. And if you can’t fit everything into your schedule during your first trip, rest assured that you could always return for some more excitement near this magnificent natural wonder.
