Niagara falls: Canada's Breathtaking Natural Beauty

Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Around 14 million visitors get to admire the wild beauty of the largest waterfalls in North America every year. Made up of three different falls, they constitute a very important landmark for both Canada and the United States. 

Niagara Falls is much more than just the waterfalls, there are plenty of activities and attractions waiting for you. You will spend days filled with culture, history, and nature. 

Where is Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is located right on the US border with Canada. The border cuts the river Niagara in half and assigns the largest of the falls to Ontario, Canada, and the smallest one to New York, US.

Things to do in Niagara Falls

There are plenty of things to do in Niagara Falls. Here are some recommendations:

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

The Maid of the Mist Boat tour gets you right into the misty heart of the cascades. In addition to this famous boat tour, there is the possibility of taking jet boat tours and helicopter tours. 

The boat tour takes passengers along the Niagara River, passing by the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls before venturing close to the base of the mighty Horseshoe Falls. These are the largest of the falls at Niagara.

Journey Behind the Falls

These tunnels, located on the Canadian side of the Falls, lead you to observation decks located directly behind the falls, allowing you to witness Niagara Falls from a unique perspective. You will be able to feel the way nature surrounds you and the immense forces of the Falls. 

Niagara SkyWheel

Enjoy a panoramic view of the falls and the surrounding area from this giant observation wheel located on Clifton Hill. The SkyWheel is approximately 53 meters tall, which makes it one of the tallest observation wheels in Canada. The SkyWheel height provides visitors with panoramic views of Niagara Falls and the Niagara River.

Visit Niagara Parks and Niagara Glen Nature Reserve

There are different natural things to do in Niagara Falls like exploring the Butterfly Conservatory, Floral Clock, and the Botanical Gardens. Apart from the Niagara Parks, you can also get a taste of Canada’s nature if you visit the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve. There you can hike trails and see unique geological formations and lush landscapes.

Winery Tours

Niagara Falls, in the Niagara Peninsula, is not only about waterfalls. This region is one of Canada’s most famous wine regions. You will be able to enjoy really good wines through guided tours that take visitors through the vineyards, production facilities, and wine cellars. 

Old Fort Niagara

Discover history at this 18th-century fort, which played a significant role in the region's past. This historic site and museum will offer any of their visitors the chance to see exhibits of the lives of soldiers, Native Americans, and civilians who inhabited the fort over the centuries.

Which is the closest Niagara Falls airport?

The closest airport to Niagara Falls is the Niagara Falls International Airport (IAG) in New York, USA. This airport primarily serves domestic flights. You can also fly into Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) in New York. This one has more domestic and international flights.

If you want to fly to Canada, the closest major airport is the Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in Ontario.

Remember that to travel to Canada you will need to apply for an eTA Canada online. This Electronic Travel Authorization allows visitors to enter the country multiple times for up to 5 years. With Visagov, you can learn all about Canada travel requirements. 

Which is the best time to visit Niagara Falls?

The best time to visit Niagara Falls is during May-September. You can expect to find a lot of people during the months of July and August where temperatures range from 70º F and 81ºF. The mist and the breeze in Niagara Falls will make it feel cooler.

During those months, you will find all major attractions open like the Maid of the Mist and different events and festivals.

Which are the Best Hotels in Niagara Falls?

If you are travelling to Canada to see Niagara Falls, we recommend staying at least a couple of nights so that you have enough time to explore the falls and enjoy all the other attractions in this beautiful location. 

Whether you’re travelling by yourself, with your loved one, or with a big family here are some of the best hotels in Niagara Falls for an incredible experience:

• Sheraton on the falls: Without a doubt, this is one of the best hotels in Niagara Falls because of its views of the falls. Half of the rooms in this hotel have Falls views and it offers different options for different budgets.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton: This hotel has it all for everyone! Luxury with the closest views of the falls you could get. Ideal for families thanks to its spacious rooms and perfect for romantic getaways as well.
• Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa: Recently renovated, this Marriott hotel is on top of the list for its modern decor and its ultra-luxury suites. The ultimate romantic luxurious getaway won’t be complete if you miss this magic hotel. 

How many waterfalls are in Canada?

Canada is famous around the world for its stunning nature and breathtaking landscapes. Millions of travellers choose Canada every year to spend their holidays, explore its nature, or go on a wild adventure in one of the planet’s best nature destinations. 

There are about 1700 waterfalls in Canada and Niagara Falls is one of Canada’s most visited ones. However, there are many other waterfalls in Canada that are equally or more beautiful than Niagara Falls due to their unspoiled natural surroundings.

• Helmcken Falls: This waterfall is located in the stunning Wells Gray Provincial Park, in British Columbia. It is considered one of the most stunning waterfalls in Canada by many and it is easily accessible by car.
• Athabasca Falls: These falls are located in an incredible location that will steal your heart. While the actual falls might not be the most spectacular you will ever see, the jaw-dropping landscape surrounding them is something straight out of a fairy tale. 
• Takakkaw Falls: One of the highest waterfalls in Canada, Takakkaw does not disappoint! The falls are accessible by car and you can get fairly close to them by foot. Located in Yoho National Park, in British Columbia, this magnificent sight is a must in Canada.

Which side of Niagara Falls is better?

Niagara Falls is made of 3 main waterfalls, some bigger than others. The Canadian side waterfall is called Horseshoe Falls and the American side waterfalls are called American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. 

While all of them are incredibly beautiful, many visitors wonder what spot in the Niagara Falls area offers the best views. Most refer to these spots as the Canadian side and the American side. 

The American side of Niagara Falls allows visitors to get very close to the falls, however, they will only be able to see them from the top. The Canadian side of Niagara Falls offers visitors a panoramic view of all three waterfalls and the chance to really feel their greatness.