Fun family vacation in Niagara Falls, Canada
Compelling attractions, unique events and a stunning natural wonder will entertain kids and adults on this family road trip to Niagara Falls and beyond.
Niagara Falls | Niagara Falls Tourism
1: Choose your accommodation
Optimize your family’s fun by booking a family-friendly accommodation in Niagara Falls. Options vary by facilities, services and price points to suit every group and budget. Some hotels offer family-themed special offers with discount room rates, meal vouchers and attraction passes.
Some of the family-friendly hotels in Niagara Falls and nearby include:
Sheraton on the Falls Hotel
Take in stunning views of the iconic Falls from Niagara’s only outdoor rooftop pool. The hotel features spacious accommodations and is connected to the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark.
Location: 5875 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls
Best Western Plus Cairn Croft Hotel
Families enjoy the complimentary breakfast, tropical-themed courtyard, indoor pool and park, arcade and golf simulators at this hotel.
Location: 6400 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls
Great Wolf Lodge
Boasting North America’s largest indoor water park, Great Wolf Lodge is a great option for families with young children. Themed accommodations, daily family events and a variety of delicious family dining options ensure a memorable experience in any season.
Location: 3950 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls
Embassy Suites by Hilton
Situated in the heart of the Fallsview area, Embassy Suites by Hilton towers 42 floors over Niagara Falls, providing unobstructed views of both the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Indulge in a roomy suite with a kitchenette, living area and the conveniences of home. Check special family packages for a discounted rate.
Location: 6700 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls
Holiday Inn & Suites
This St. Catharines property is ideal for families with its heated saltwater indoor pool and the Parkway Social entertainment centre which includes a 30-lane bowling alley, laser tag and arcade.
Location: 327 Ontario Street, St. Catharines
2: Plan your time in Niagara Falls
From the breathtaking Horseshoe Falls to the vibrant atmosphere and excitement of the Clifton Hill “Street of Fun,” there are countless things for families to do and places to eat in Niagara Falls. Niagara Parks is committed to providing accessible attractions when possible.
Here are some highlights to get you started:
Things to do
Niagara City Cruises
“Voyage to the Falls” is a 20-minute boat tour that takes you on the journey of a lifetime. Between April and October, get amazing views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls and come face-to-face with the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Operates seasonally, between April and October.
Location: 5920 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls
Journey Behind the Falls
Descend 28 metres by elevator and walk along 130-year-old tunnels through the bedrock. You’ll feel the powerful vibrations of the Horseshoe Falls long before you reach the two outdoor observation decks and two portals directly behind the Falls. Open year-round.
Location: 6650 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls Fireworks
The Niagara Falls annual summer fireworks show is Canada’s longest-running fireworks series and draws visitors worldwide. Get the best view from Queen Victoria Park. In addition, the falls are illuminated in multi-colours every evening.
Fireworks are held nightly, weather permitting, from mid-May to mid-October.
Location: 6345 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls
Niagara Parks Power Station
Explore the preserved interior of the first major power plant on the Canadian side of the Niagara River, transformed with immersive exhibits, restored artifacts, interactive storytelling and a 670-metre underground tunnel. Visit after dark for new and exciting nighttime experiences. Open year-round.
Location: 7005 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls
Fallsview Indoor Waterpark
Fallsview Indoor Waterpark offers families action-packed water fun year-round. It features 16 waterslides and a huge tipping bucket. Enjoy the massive wave pool and the Tiny Tot splash area. There is also a year-round outdoor activity pool and sundeck. For added comfort, you can rent private cabanas.
Location: 5685 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls
Bird Kingdom
Hundreds of colourful tropical birds inhabit the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary. You can meet friendly parrots and interact with playful lorikeets. Listen to small birds sing songs throughout the multi-level rainforest. Open year-round.
Location: 5651 River Road, Niagara Falls
Butterfly Conservatory
The Butterfly Conservatory features over 2,000 colourful tropical butterflies floating freely among lush, exotic blossoms and greenery. This attraction is open year-round.
Location: 2565 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls
WildPlay Niagara
Daredevils will enjoy an exhilarating zipline ride over the American Falls with Niagara Falls Zipline or a self-paced obstacle course set high above the Niagara Gorge with the Whirlpool Adventure Course. Both attractions operate seasonally, between spring and fall.
Locations:
- Niagara Falls Zipline, 5920 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls
- WildPlay Whirlpool Adventure Course, 3500 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls
Niagara Speedway
Known as the “Mario-Kart”-inspired racetrack, the Niagara Speedway is North America’s largest elevated go-kart track facility. Open seasonally, its roller-coaster-style track paired with a traditional powered go-kart makes for a thrilling ride as soon as the race lights count down. It is best for families with tweens and teenagers; height restrictions apply.
Location: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls
Niagara Go Kart
Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a first-timer, Niagara Go Karts delivers non-stop fun for anyone wanting to feel the speed and enjoy some friendly competition. Feel like a professional racer in the Formula 1 or take your kids for a ride in the two-seater family kart. Closed in winter. Age and height restrictions apply.
Location: 7104 Kinsmen Court, Niagara Falls
Whirlpool Aero Car
Ride an antique (and safe) cable car with spectacular views of the swirling Niagara Whirlpool and the whitewater rapids of the river below. This seasonal attraction is typically open from April to November.
Location: 3850 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls
Great Canadian Midway
This year-round entertainment complex covers 6,500 square metres of fun with over 300 arcade and interactive games, such as the Wild West Coaster Motion and the spooky Ghost Blasters Dark Ride.
Location: 4848 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls
Dinosaur Adventure Golf
One of the country’s largest miniature golf courses, this seasonal site offers two 18-hole courses decorated with fun features like realistic dinosaur models, jungle sound effects, fast-moving rapids and an “active” volcano that erupts steam.
Location: 4952 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls
Niagara SkyWheel
Take a ride on Canada’s largest observation wheel that towers 53 metres with great views of the Horseshoe and American Falls, day or night. Operates year-round and is suitable for all ages.
Location: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum
Fans of the bizarre and unbelievable will enjoy over 500 mind-boggling displays of rare and amusing oddities. View some of the most incredible customs, unusual hobbies and weirdest artifacts from around the world. Open year-round.
Location: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls
Movieland Wax Museum
Walk through entertainment history and strike a pose with your favourite celebrity. Find lifelike wax sculptures of classic and contemporary stars like Marilyn Monroe, Harrison Ford, Chris Hemsworth and Taylor Swift. This attraction is open year-round.
Location: 4848 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls
Places to eat
Skylon Tower
Feast in style, 235 metres above the falls. The Skylon Tower Revolving Dining Room offers a spectacular 360° view of Niagara Falls and a family-affordable, buffet-style menu that includes fresh seafood, meats, salads and pastries. The buffet menu is offered seasonally, from May to October.
Location: 5200 Robinson Street, Niagara Falls
Mick and Angelo’s Kitchen and Bar
This fun family restaurant welcomes with a casual vibe, quality customer service and kid-approved meals like pizza, pasta, chicken fingers, wings and more.
Location: 7600 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls
Flying Saucer Restaurant
The unique UFO-themed decor sets a playful ambience that kids love. Choose from a range of dishes, including specialty subs to delicious burgers and hot dogs, at affordable prices.
Location: 6768 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls
Antica Pizzeria & Ristorante
Treat yourself to authentic Italian wood-oven-fired pizza. Or choose from delicious pasta dishes and fresh salads.
Location: 5785 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls
Rainforest Cafe
The only Rainforest Cafe in Canada, enjoy an immersive dining experience that features animatronic animals, an indoor thunderstorm, sounds of the jungle and more.
Location: 4915 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls
Smoke’s Poutinerie
Smoke’s Poutinerie specializes in the iconic Canadian dish of fries, cheese curds, gravy and unlimited topping options.
Location: 5869 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls
3: Day trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake
Distance and drive time from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake: 25 kilometres, 30 minutes
Follow the Niagara River Parkway north to Niagara-on-the-Lake, a cute town brimming with activities, including shopping, scenic parks and cultural experiences.
Things to do
Queenston Heights
En route, stop at Queenston Heights atop the Niagara Escarpment. The park features two large pavilions, a children’s splash pad and historic monuments, including the Landscape of Nations dedicated to the contributions and sacrifices made by Six Nations and Indigenous allies during the War of 1812.
Location: 14184 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Queen Street
In the heart of town, Queen Street is lined with beautiful heritage buildings, boutique shops and quaint cafes. Look for souvenirs at gift shops like Just Christmas and Cool as a Moose and stop for fun treats at the Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe and Budapest Bakeshop.
Location: Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Shaw Festival Theatre
Be entertained by musicals, comedies, mysteries and more at the Shaw. Check for special family-friendly shows and events. The festival runs from April to December.
Location: 10 Queen's Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Outlet Collection Niagara
Search for great deals on over 100 brands in this year-round outdoor shopping complex. Find great deals on kids shoes and clothing.
Location: 300 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Fort George National Historic Site
Tour the barracks and blockhouses and witness rousing battle re-enactment at this significant War of 1812 site.
Location: 51 Queen's Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Places to eat
Walker’s Country Market
Grab lunch to go at Walker’s Country Market, situated along the Niagara River Parkway. This family farm has been operating since the 1930s and serves hearty sandwiches, homemade bakery goods, delicious jams, jellies and preserves.
Location: 15796 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Picnic at McFarland House
Enjoy a leisurely picnic in McFarland Park, a beautiful spot next to the historic McFarland House.
Find even more picnic options in the Niagara region.
Location: 15927 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake
The Olde Angel Inn Restaurant
Bring your appetite for authentic British pub fare, including award-winning English-style fish and chips.
Location: 224 Regent Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Stagecoach Family Restaurant
This old-school diner is popular among locals for its hearty breakfasts and classic comfort foods. Your kids will especially enjoy stopping by the ice cream counter on the way out.
Location: 45 Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Fritters on the Lake
This family-owned bakery bakes tasty, freshly made apple fritters. Pick up a hot order of soft, cinnamon-dusted fritters and snack on them while enjoying a scenic stroll by the lake.
Location: 217 King Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
4: Day trip to St. Catharines
Distance and drive time from Niagara Falls to St. Catharines: 20 kilometres, 20 minutes
Explore engaging museums and visit cultural site attractions, parks and beaches in St. Catharines, another great day trip destination from Niagara Falls.
Things to do
St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre
Watch ships navigate through the Welland Canals in St. Catharines, one of Canada’s engineering marvels, from the indoor Lock View Lounge or Lock 3 Observation Deck. The museum is open year-round and offers a chance to learn about the canal’s rich history and engineering advances.
Location: 1932 Welland Canals Parkway, St. Catharines
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm
Stop at Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm, the perfect setting for a family picnic. The park has an animal viewing area, a huge playground and one of Canada’s most interesting collections of flowering rhododendrons. Open from May to October.
Location: 650 Read Road, St. Catharines
Lakeside Park Beach
Lakeside Park Beach is a picturesque escape on the south shore of Lake Ontario. Its most notable attraction is the century-old, beautifully carved and restored Lakeside Park Carousel, which offers rides for only five cents. Operates May to September.
Location: 1 Lakeport Road, St. Catharines
Port Dalhousie Lighthouse
This historic lighthouse is one of only three lighthouses left on the Great Lakes with an octagonal shape. Built in the mid-1800s, the Port Dalhousie Lighthouse is considered aesthetically attractive due to its decorative architectural detailing.
Location: 57–61 Lighthouse Road, St. Catharines
Places to eat
The Diner House 29
This fun and fabulous retro diner is great for a family breakfast or brunch with its eclectic mix of foods. Browse home-grown jams for purchase from the on-site pantry.
Location: 431 Welland Avenue, St. Catharines
The Twisted Pig
Inventive twists on Italian dishes like pasta and wood-fired pizzas are perfect for picky eaters and adventurous foodies. When the weather is warm, sit on the patio.
Location: 1 Lock Street, St. Catharines
Georges Greek Village
Enjoy views of the Welland Canal and the Garden City Skyway while enjoying traditional Greek dishes like souvlaki, gyros and seafood.
Location: 535 Queenston Street, St. Catharines
Chile and Agave
Known for bold flavours and festive atmosphere, this colourful Mexican restaurant features tacos, burritos, enchiladas and fajitas made with fresh ingredients.
Location: 51 Hartzel Road, St. Catharines
Rise Above Restaurant
Located in downtown St. Catharines, Rise Above is a vegan restaurant and bakery serving creative and flavourful sandwiches, bowls, soups and desserts.
Location: 120 St. Paul Street, St. Catharines
Beechwood Doughnuts
A must-visit spot for doughnut lovers of all ages, Beechwood Doughnuts creates handmade, vegan doughnuts. Its decadent toppings and range of classic and unique flavours have led to this popular doughnut shop earning a loyal following from those with a sweet tooth.
Location: 165 St. Paul Street, St. Catharines
13th Street Bakery
One of Ontario’s top wineries also happens to lay claim to some of the best butter tarts and pies in the region.
Location: 1776 Fourth Avenue, St. Catharines
5: Day trip to Niagara’s South Coast
Distance and drive time from Niagara Falls to Fort Erie: 32 kilometres, 30 minutes
Niagara’s South Coast stretches along the Niagara River to Lake Erie. To get there, consider a drive along the Niagara Parkway for great views of the Niagara River and the community of large homes along the waterfront. Listen to podcasts about the interesting and storied history of the Falls along the drive.
Once you arrive in Lake Erie, visit an impressive military fort and soak in the sun on the sandy shores of Crystal Beach.
Things to do
Old Fort Erie
Experience the sights and sounds of a fort under siege at this National Historic Site. With daily tours, musket demonstrations and annual events, you’ll be immersed in the important role Niagara played in the War of 1812. Old Fort Erie is open from May to October.
Location: 350 Lakeshore Road, Fort Erie
Windmill Point Park and Campground
Discover adventure and relaxation at Windmill Point Park and Campground, nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Erie. Dive into thrilling activities like swimming, scuba diving, and paddle boating. Challenge your friends to a volleyball game or explore the giant inflatable water park, where life jackets are provided for safety.
Location: 2409 Dominion Road, Ridgeway
Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach entices families with its sandy shores and clear, warm waters. Once home to the famous Crystal Beach Amusement Park from 1888 to 1989, it still charms visitors with its rich history. Enjoy modern amenities like washrooms with change rooms, a playground, and beach mats for easy access to the water. Secure your day pass and experience why this destination remains a summer favourite.
Location: Crystal Beach
Places to eat
Rizzo’s House of Parm
Chef Matty Matheson, famous for his Toronto restaurants and role on the TV show The Bear, has opened a trendy, home-style Italian restaurant near his hometown of Fort Erie. Enjoy generous portions of homemade Italian dishes like chicken, veal or eggplant parmigiana, a variety of pasta, and even a kids' menu. Reservations are recommended.
Location: 2 Ridgeway Road, Crystal Beach
Green Acres Family Restaurant
Open since 1961, this old-fashioned family restaurant offers a classic dining experience. It serves Canadian-style burgers, fish and chips, roast beef and more.
Location: 1554 Garrison Road, Fort Erie
Tickets and travel info
Find more trip planning information on Niagara Falls and the Niagara Region, including Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Catharines and Niagara’s South Coast.
Ontario Tourism Information Centre
Visit the Ontario Tourism Information Centre in Niagara Falls to speak with a local travel counsellor. Get trip information and brochures, souvenirs and tickets to local attractions.
Location: 5355 Stanley Avenue, Niagara Falls
Discounts and savings
Purchase the Niagara Falls Wonder Pass,which includes admission to multiple attractions, such as Journey Behind the Falls, the Niagara Parks Power Station and the Butterfly Conservatory. Use the pass for discounts at restaurants and gift shops as well.
Another option is the Clifton Hill FUN PASS, which grants access to popular attractions like Niagara Skywheel and Zombie Attach at one low price. Save with combo tickets to Ripley’s Attractions or the ultimate Niagara Falls Fun Zone pass for entry to several attractions.
Getting here and around
Niagara Falls is along the Canada–United States border in southern Ontario. Situated on the western bank of the Niagara River, it is approximately 130 kilometres (80 miles) south of Toronto. The Gardiner Expressway/Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) provides the most direct driving route from the Greater Toronto Area.
Crossing the border
For travellers coming from the U.S., the closest border crossing locations are:
- Lewiston-Queenston Bridge from Lewiston, New York to Queenston, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
- Rainbow International Bridge from Niagara Falls, New York to Niagara Falls, Ontario
- Peace Bridge from Buffalo, New York to Fort Erie, Ontario
Check border wait times in advance and find out what else you’ll need to know to cross the border into Canada.
Learn more about travelling to Niagara Falls, including the closest airports and bus and train transportation.
Local transit
Getting around is easy on the WEGO, a hop-on, hop-off visitor transportation system that connects Niagara Parks locations to major hotels and other Niagara Falls tourism areas.
Parking
Knowing where and when parking is permitted helps make your trip a smooth experience.
Get information on parking locations, permits and costs for:
Know before you go
Weather
Ontario is a four-season destination, and temperatures and weather change dramatically throughout the year. Learn more about the weather in Ontario and get suggestions on what to pack and how to prepare for your trip to Niagara Falls.
Safety information
Emergencies aren’t always the first thing we consider when planning a vacation, but knowing who to contact in an emergency is important.
Land acknowledgement
Niagara Falls and the Niagara region are situated on the traditional lands of First Nations Peoples, including the Haudenosaunee, the Anishinaabe and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.
Last updated: December 18, 2024