Just an hour and a half drive from Toronto, the world-famous Niagara Falls are a breathtaking sight, with water cascading powerfully over the Niagara River, which forms the border between the USA and Canada. The volume of water flowing is truly awe-inspiring, reaching up to 700,000 liters per second at peak flow.
The falls are divided into three main sections:
Horseshoe Falls (on the Canadian side 🇨🇦) – The largest of the three, Horseshoe Falls drops from a height of 51 meters and spans 675 meters in width (twice as wide as the American falls).
American Falls (on the U.S. side 🇺🇸) – Standing at 55 meters high and 323 meters wide, these falls are slightly taller than the Bridal Veil Falls but smaller in width.
Bridal Veil Falls (on the U.S. side 🇺🇸) – These falls are the smallest of the three, with a drop of 55 meters and a width of 23 meters.
The falls are mesmerizing at all times of the day, but they become particularly magical at night. During the summer months, fireworks light up the sky over the falls at 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, creating a spectacular sight. I was fortunate to capture some incredible shots of the fireworks, and I invite you to watch the video of the falls at night.
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Here are a few key highlights to keep in mind for your Niagara Falls visit:
One day will not be enough to experience all the major attractions, so plan accordingly.
Don't miss the falls at night — the fireworks display on Fridays and Saturdays is a must-see! (Details and videos below.)
It’s highly recommended to experience the falls from both the Canadian and American sides. There’s a simple border crossing at point number 5 on the map, either by foot or car (more details below).
If you must choose only one side, opt for the Canadian side. The views are much better, and the overall experience is more impressive.
Keep in mind that the area is very touristy, and prices reflect that. Also, tax is not included in the prices listed online, so remember to add it to every purchase.
1. 🇺🇸 The American side - the Three Sisters Islands
The Sister Islands were named in honor of the three daughters of General Parkhurst Whitney, an American commander during the War of 1812. After the war, Whitney became a successful businessman and owned the Cataract Hotel in Niagara Falls, New York.
In the spring of 1816, General Whitney took his daughters—Asnet, Angeline, and Selinda Eliza—on a visit to the islands. This trip was particularly special because they became the first people to visit the third and most distant island. This was only possible due to the ice upstream of the falls, which had significantly reduced the dangerous rapids and allowed the water channel to freeze. At that time, there were no bridges to any of the islands, so Whitney and his daughters crossed the ice to reach the third island.
Proud of his daughters' adventure, General Whitney asked the islands' owners, Peter and Augustus Porter, to rename the islands in honor of his three daughters.
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2. 🇺🇸 American side - Terrapin Point
Terrapin Point is one of the most famous viewpoints at Niagara Falls, located on the American side, specifically on the Niagara Falls State Park. It offers a stunning panoramic view of the Horseshoe Falls, the largest and most powerful waterfall of the three that make up Niagara Falls.
The viewpoint is situated on the western side of Goat Island and provides an up-close look at the spectacular force of the water as it cascades over the falls. Visitors standing at Terrapin Point are often amazed by the sheer power and beauty of the falls, with the mist rising up from the base and a constant thunderous roar in the background.
It is an ideal location for taking in the full scope of the falls, especially during the summer months when the falls are illuminated at night. The point is also a popular spot for photographers due to its breathtaking views of the cascading water and the surrounding natural beauty.
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3. 🇺🇸 American side - Cave Of the Winds
A highly recommended and very wet attraction ☂🧥, they start with a movie that describes the history of Niagara Falls, and then the action begins, you go down in the elevator, and then you get a yellow raincoat.
Note that you will get wet despite the coat, a girl who was standing next to me had her phone thrown into the water because of the huge current.
Cost: adult - 21 US dollars, child (6-12) - 17 US dollars, child under 6 years old - free
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4. 🇺🇸 American side - Luna Island
Luna Island is a small island located between the American and Bridal Veil Falls at Niagara Falls. It's known for its stunning views of the falls and the surrounding area. The island is named after the moon, as it is said to have been named by early explorers due to the moonlight reflecting off the falls at night, creating a mystical, glowing effect.
Visitors can access the island via a bridge, and it offers a unique perspective, allowing you to experience the power of the falls up close. It's a popular spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Niagara Falls from a more tranquil, less crowded location. The island is also part of Niagara Falls State Park in New York, and it provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the main viewing areas.
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5. 🇺🇸 American side - Observation Tower and Maid of the Mist
The observation tower on the American side offers the best views of Niagara Falls from this vantage point. The tower, which stands on a natural rock outcropping, rises to a height of 85 meters, providing a stunning perspective of the falls.
This location is also the departure point for the iconic Maid of the Mist cruise. Operating since 1854, the Maid of the Mist takes you on a thrilling journey through the Niagara River, starting near the Rainbow Bridge. The cruise passes by the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, before heading directly into the misty spray of the Horseshoe Falls. Passengers are provided with blue raincoats to help stay dry as they experience the powerful force of the falls up close.
Cruise cost: adult - 28.25 US dollars, child (6-12) - 17.75 US dollars, child under 6 years old - free of charge
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6. 🇨🇦 Canadian side - Rainbow Bridge
Rainbow Bridge is a beautiful, iconic bridge that spans the Niagara River, connecting the United States and Canada. It offers a stunning view of Niagara Falls, making it a popular spot for tourists on both sides of the border. The bridge’s unique arch design and vibrant name come from the mist that often creates a rainbow in the sunlight, especially on sunny days.
The bridge is an important international crossing, allowing pedestrians and vehicles to travel between the U.S. and Canada. For visitors, walking across the bridge provides an incredible panoramic view of the falls, and it's a memorable way to experience both the American and Canadian sides of the natural wonder. It also serves as a key part of the Niagara Falls State Park and the surrounding attractions.
Note that you can cross the bridge on foot or by car (don't forget your passport).
Cost of crossing on foot from the Canadian side to the American side: 1 Canadian dollars
Cost of crossing on foot from the American side to the Canadian side: no cost
7. 🇨🇦 Canadian side - Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill is a vibrant and bustling street located in Niagara Falls, Canada, known for its array of attractions, entertainment, and dining options. Often referred to as the "Street of Fun," Clifton Hill is a popular destination for families and tourists looking to experience the lively side of Niagara Falls.
The street is lined with colorful neon signs, arcades, museums, restaurants, and themed attractions, making it a lively spot day and night. Some notable highlights include the Niagara SkyWheel, an observation wheel offering stunning views of the falls and surrounding area, the Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum, and the Movieland Wax Museum. Clifton Hill is also home to various restaurants, snack bars, and shops, catering to every type of visitor.
With its fun, energetic atmosphere and proximity to Niagara Falls, Clifton Hill is a must-see for those looking to add some excitement to their visit.
A tourist area with plenty of attractions and light museums (Wax, Guinness, Ripley's), Frankenstein's house, video games, restaurants and more. The area bustles with life day and night, once the fireworks are over you can't move. In addition, there is a giant wheel that overlooks the 53-meter-high waterfalls.
Cost: adult - 15 Canadian dollars, child (up to 12 years old) - 7 Canadian dollars
8. 🇨🇦 Canadian side - WildPlay Niagara Falls Zipline to the Falls
The WildPlay Niagara Falls Zipline to the Falls offers an exhilarating, one-of-a-kind experience, giving visitors the chance to soar over the Niagara River and get an up-close view of the falls from above. The zipline features a series of four parallel lines, allowing riders to zip from a launching platform on the Canadian side down to a viewing area just 670 meters from the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
As you zip along, you'll experience breathtaking views of the falls, the river, and the surrounding landscape, with the roar of the water below adding to the excitement. The adventure culminates in a thrilling ride as you approach the misty base of the falls, providing a unique perspective of this natural wonder.
The zipline operates year-round, offering an unforgettable adventure for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. It's an amazing way to combine adrenaline with stunning scenic views of one of the world's most famous landmarks.
Cruise cost: adult (over 13 years old) 33.5 Canadian dollars, child (3-12) - 23.5 Canadian dollars, child up to 3 years old - free of charge
9. 🇨🇦 Canadian side - Skylon Tower
The Skylon Tower is one of Niagara Falls' most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding region. Located on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, the tower stands 775 feet (236 meters) tall and is one of the best observation points in the area.
Visitors can take a glass-enclosed elevator to the top of the tower, where they can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the Niagara Falls, the Niagara River, and the surrounding landscape. On clear days, you can see for miles, taking in both the American and Canadian sides of the falls.
The Skylon Tower is also home to two restaurants: the Revolving Dining Room, which slowly rotates to provide a continuously changing view of the falls, and Summit Suite Buffet, which offers a more casual dining experience with spectacular views.
In addition to the views, the Skylon Tower features an observation deck, gift shops, and an indoor/outdoor café, making it a popular stop for visitors seeking an elevated experience of Niagara Falls.
Note that it is very worthwhile to see the falls during the day and at night, so to save money it is recommended to buy a combined ticket that allows you 2 entries in two days at the times of your choice (22 Canadian dollars in total for 2 entries compared to 18 Canadian dollars for one entry)
Cost for one entry: adult (over 13 years old) 18 Canadian dollars, child (4-12) - 9 Canadian dollars, child up to 4 years old - free of charge
Cost for two entries: adult (over 13 years old) 22 Canadian dollars, child (4-12) - 11 Canadian dollars, child up to 4 years old - free of charge
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10. 🇨🇦 Canadian side - Falls Incline Railway
The Falls Incline Railway is a unique and scenic transportation option that takes visitors from the top of the Niagara Gorge down to the base, near the foot of the American Falls. This funicular railway is located on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls and offers a smooth and enjoyable ride while providing stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
The incline railway travels a short distance, descending at a steep angle, allowing passengers to experience a different perspective of the falls from the lower observation area. It's a convenient way for visitors to reach the Niagara River and the many attractions at the base of the falls, including the popular Journey Behind the Falls and boat tours like the Hornblower Niagara Cruises.
The Falls Incline Railway is an accessible and enjoyable way to get close to Niagara Falls' natural beauty, especially for those who want to avoid the steep climb down to the river or who simply want to enjoy the ride.
Journey Behind the Falls is one of the most immersive and thrilling ways to experience Niagara Falls up close. Located on the Canadian side, this attraction takes visitors on an unforgettable adventure beneath and behind the iconic Horseshoe Falls.
The experience begins with an elevator ride down into the bedrock, where you’ll walk through a series of tunnels that lead to observation decks situated directly behind the falls. From here, you'll have a unique perspective of the massive volume of water thundering down just a few feet away. The roar of the falls, combined with the mist in the air, creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere.
In addition to the behind-the-scenes views, there are also outdoor observation platforms where visitors can get a direct, head-on view of the Horseshoe Falls, with the mist and spray often creating a dramatic, close-up experience.
Journey Behind the Falls is open year-round, though the experience can be more dramatic during the warmer months when the falls are at their fullest. It’s a must-do for anyone looking to truly feel the power of Niagara Falls.
Price: Adult (age 13+) 25 Canadian dollars, Child (3-12) 16.5 Canadian dollars
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12. 🇨🇦 Canadian side - Dufferin Islands
Dufferin Islands is a serene and picturesque area located near Niagara Falls, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds. Situated just south of the Horseshoe Falls, Dufferin Islands is a small group of islands connected by walking bridges, paths, and scenic trails. It's part of Niagara Falls State Park and provides a beautiful natural setting, complete with lush greenery, ponds, and lovely walking areas.
Visitors can stroll through the islands, taking in the tranquil atmosphere, enjoying the views of the surrounding nature, and spotting wildlife such as ducks and swans. The islands are especially charming during spring and summer when flowers are in bloom and the foliage is at its fullest.
Dufferin Islands is an excellent spot for a quiet picnic, a leisurely walk, or simply relaxing in a more tranquil environment compared to the busy areas around the falls. It offers a more intimate and serene experience while still being close to the major attractions of Niagara Falls.
Cost: Free
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13. 🇨🇦 Canadian side - White Water Walk
The White Water Walk is a unique attraction located on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, offering visitors an up-close look at the powerful white-water rapids of the Niagara River. Situated along the river's edge, this scenic walk provides a thrilling experience as you follow a wooden boardwalk that runs parallel to the fast-moving waters of the Niagara River Gorge.
The walk takes visitors down to a lower level, where you can see the raging rapids and feel the intensity of the water as it surges toward the base of the falls. Along the way, there are informative signs and viewpoints that highlight the history, geology, and power of the river. The highlight of the walk is the opportunity to stand just feet away from the roaring rapids, which can be especially impressive during high-water season.
The White Water Walk is a relatively short, easy stroll, making it accessible to visitors of all ages. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of Niagara Falls in a more peaceful, scenic setting while still being captivated by the raw power of the river.
I would recommend this attraction only if you are in the area, the stay time is a maximum of 45 minutes because the boardwalk is not long.
The Whirlpool Aero Car is a unique and thrilling aerial cable car ride that takes visitors across the Niagara River, offering spectacular views of the Niagara Whirlpool and the surrounding gorge. Located just a short distance from Niagara Falls, on the Canadian side, the Aero Car has been operating since 1916 and is one of the most historic attractions in the area.
The ride spans approximately 1,000 feet (300 meters) across the river and takes passengers high above the swirling, frothy waters of the Niagara Whirlpool, which is a natural phenomenon created by the force of the river as it changes direction. From the Aero Car, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Whirlpool, the Niagara River Gorge, and the lush landscape.
The Aero Car is a thrilling experience for visitors who want to see a different side of Niagara Falls, as it provides a bird’s-eye view of one of nature’s most fascinating and powerful features. It’s a short but memorable ride that adds a touch of adventure to any visit to the Niagara Falls area.
The Floral Clock is a charming and colorful landmark located in Niagara Parks, on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. It is one of the largest floral clocks in the world and is a popular stop for visitors. The clock is a stunning display of seasonal flowers, with its face measuring 12 meters (40 feet) in diameter.
The Floral Clock is beautifully maintained, with different flowers planted each season to create vibrant, ever-changing patterns. It combines artistry with horticulture, and the flowers are carefully chosen to complement the clock's intricate design. The clock's hands are large and visible, and the entire structure is surrounded by well-manicured gardens, adding to its picturesque appeal.
In addition to its beauty, the Floral Clock has an interesting feature: it is powered by a small hydroelectric generator that utilizes water from the nearby Niagara River, which ties it to the region's rich natural resources.
Located near the Niagara Parkway, the Floral Clock is a peaceful and photogenic stop on your way to Niagara Falls, offering a chance to enjoy the natural beauty and craftsmanship of this iconic attraction.
The famous flower clock of Niagara has about 16,000 flowers.
