Clifton Hill to Maid of the Mist: Discover Niagara Falls
The majesty of Niagara Falls has been drawing in visitors for hundreds of years. The beauty of Horseshoe Falls defies description, the 360-degree views from the Skylon Tower stretch as far as the eye can see, kids of all ages will delight at the vibrancy of Clifton Hill, and the views along the Niagara River leave nothing to be desired. The nostalgic charm and awe-inspiring natural beauty has made this beloved destination a must-visit box to check on any traveller’s bucket list, perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway in any season.
Photo courtesy of The Tourism Partnership of Niagara
Fall in Love with Falls
The easiest place to get a good look at the falls is from the pedestrian walkway next to the Niagara Parkway, where you can take in the breathtaking views of Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side and the American and Bridal Veil Falls across the river in neighbouring New York state. Other vantage points are well within your reach if you’re looking to get a different view, whether from above, up close, or behind. Take in the views of the falls from the skies with a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel, or from the observation deck of the Skylon Tower. Feel the crashing water and the spray on your face with a Journey Behind the Falls, or on the Maid of the Mist (classic, stylish ponchos included).
Photo courtesy of The Tourism Partnership of Niagara
Cruise Clifton Hill
There’s no shortage of “Fun by the Falls” on the world-famous Clifton Hill. Lined with attractions that will appeal to the whole family, this promenade is guaranteed to bring out everyone’s inner child. Live out your Formula One dreams on the Niagara Speedway, a four-story outdoor racing track that will get your adrenaline pumping and keep the good times rolling. Rub elbows with the stars at the Movieland Wax Museum and expand your mind with the mystical and unbelievably incredible at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum. Interactive funhouses, bowling, mini golf, arcade games, museums – you name it, Clifton Hill has got it.
Photo courtesy of The Tourism Partnership of Niagara
Botanical Gardens and Butterflies
The waterfalls aren’t the only breathtaking sight in Niagara Falls; along the Niagara Parkway lie thousands of flowers, floral arrangements and displays that accentuate the beauty of the area. The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens boasts almost 100 acres of picturesque garden beds filled with blooming perennials, vibrant azaleas and various herbs and vegetables. The grounds are also home to a world-famous rose garden that grows more than 2,000 roses and one of the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories in North America. Wander through the rain forest-like setting as thousands of butterflies float around tropical plants, and observe butterflies emerge from chrysalises, preparing to take flight for the first time.
Photo courtesy of The Tourism Partnership of Niagara
Getting to Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls less than two hours’ drive from Toronto, so you can head straight down the Queen Elizabeth Way highway and get right to your destination or take a more scenic route and discover new spots along the way. Coast along the shore of Lake Ontario and stretch your legs at Burlington’s Spencer Smith Park, visit the vineyards of the Beamsville Bench, and behold the beauty of Niagara-On-The-Lake, where wine, craft beer and cider connoisseurs will be hard pressed to find something that’s not to their taste. They say that it’s not the journey, it’s the destination, but, in the case of the trip from Toronto to Niagara, it’s safe to say that it’s both.
Always follow Canada and local health authority COVID-19 guidelines for travelling or visiting attractions. Learn more about current restrictions and travelling within Canada.