The Niagara Region is on the Niagara Peninsula sandwiched between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Several of its cities contain the most scenic drives and popular tourist sites in Ontario, including Niagara Falls.
The Niagara Region is on the Niagara Peninsula sandwiched between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Several of its cities contain the most scenic drives and popular tourist sites in Ontario, including Niagara Falls.
Without question, the best waterfalls in North America – and always ranked among the top five in the world – is Niagara Falls. This spectacular phenomenon has been on your bucket list forever. Now is the time go! You can experience this gushing display of power from Niagara Falls, New York in the United States (seen in the background) or across the river in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. With a passport and enough time, you can savor the perspectives from both cities. This travel guide focuses on the Canadian side. Your first glimpse of the falls will probably be as you rush down the hill on Murray Street. This common access point is at the base of the tall, slender Skylon Tower.
5305 Murray St, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3W6, Canada
Parallel to Queen Victoria Park and Niagara Parkway is a long promenade overlooking the falls. Despite the crowds, every step along the way provides you an unfettered range of vision. Hurry up! You are almost there.
5146 Murray St, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N4, Canada
You have finally arrived! If you are similar to the 28 million people who visit each year, you are now gasping in amazement at this stunning panorama. Niagara Falls consists of three cascades separated by Goat Island. The two on the left are within the United States. The largest one at the end is in Canada. Collectively, more than 750,000 gallons of water flood over the cliffs per second. This is the highest flow rate in the world. The trio are formed by the Niagara River as it travels 35 miles from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. Geologists estimate the falls are 10,000 to 12,000 years old. They were formed during the North American ice age called the Wisconsin Glacial Episode. The Great Lakes were also created during this period.
5211 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2G, Canada
Directly in front of you – framed by the cityscape of Niagara Falls, New York – are the two waterfalls in the United States. The largest of the pair is American Falls. This torrent of water measures 830 feet across with a drop of 188 feet. It is easy to see how the smaller cascade on the right got its name. Bridal Veil Falls has a crest of 56 feet. Its two-stage drop descends 181 feet. Collectively, more than 75,750 gallons of water race over the rockface per second. This sounds like a lot, and it is. But the volume is only about 10% of the water generated by the Niagara River. The majority goes over Horseshoe Falls while some is diverted for power plants. Separating these two waterfalls is the 70 acre Luna Island. Notice the excellent 40 foot wide observation deck on top. You can also have an up-close thrill by joining the people wearing yellow raincoats. They are traversing a wooden boardwalk called Cave of the Winds.
5211 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2G, Canada
The pièce de résistance of Niagara Falls is the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Every second, more than 680,000 gallons plummet over the 2,700 foot wide, U-shaped crest. That wall of water is about 90% of Niagara Falls’ flow rate. After the vertical drop of 167 feet, the aquamarine water swirls violently below a cloud of mist. Under the rainbow is the Maid of the Mist. The boat transports guests from Rainbow Bridge, past the American and Bridal Veil Falls and up close to Horseshoe Falls. The 20 minute excursion has been popular for over 170 years. The first vessel with this name was launched in 1846 as a ferry between the two countries. Since then, there have been ten ships with this name. Notice the passengers all wearing blue ponchos. This designate they originated in the United States.
6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2G, Canada
Now look to your left. Watch as the Niagara River rushes with white swirls of foam under the 1,450 foot Rainbow Bridge leading to the United States. From here, the water will thunder north through a gorge for 13.5 miles before emptying into Lake Ontario at the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Impressive, right? The first European to stand where you are was French navigator Samuel de Champlain in 1604. Subsequent missionaries and explorers followed during the 17th century. Ever wonder how Niagara Falls became the destination for honeymooners? This trend began in 1801 after the daughter of Vice President Aaron Burr vacationed at Niagara Falls with her new husband.
6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T2, Canada
Now turn left and walk along the promenade in a northernly direction toward Rainbow Bridge. Along the way, you can admire the blooming gardens and sculpted bushes of Queen Victoria Park. You will come to this raised platform. This elevated position provides one of the best overlooks of all three waterfalls. If you are an adrenaline junkie, consider an incredible zipline adventure. After being harnessed, you will fly 220 feet above the river for 2,200 feet at about 40 miles per hour. Wildplay’s Zipline to the Falls will definitely get your heart pumping.
5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada
At the same platform you can sign up with Hornblower Niagara Cruises. No, this is not your typical boring sightseeing trip along a river. Being given a souvenir red raincoat should be your first clue of what is to come. For 20 minutes, you travel along the base of all three waterfalls. Stare up in amazement at their height. Hear the thundering roar as the water crashes into the river. Be awestruck by the power of the current. Laugh and smile as you are covered with mist. You will tell your family and friends about this exploit when you get home.
5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada
People from around the world come to Niagara Falls to see the falls. They stay for days because there are so many other things to see and do. This is a remarkable vacation destination for all ages. Two ends of the spectrum are shown here. The Imax Theatre projects an engaging 3D movie about the falls on a 60 foot high screen with 12,000 watts of sound. Also here is the Niagara Daredevil Exhibit. On display are barrels used by 16 fearless people who dared to take the plunge. The tower is the Fallsview Casino Resort. The complex houses 200,000 square feet of gambling, a theater for performances by international stars, over 25 boutique shops, restaurants, a night club plus a hotel overlooking Niagara Falls.
6170 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 7T8, Canada
Rising 775 feet above Niagara Falls is the Skylon Tower. Step inside one of three Yellow Bug elevators for an exhilarating, one-minute ride up the exterior. From the observation decks, marvel at the incredible falls below you. You will also be impressed with the 360° perspective of the Niagara Peninsula (Canadian side) and the Niagara Frontier (U.S. side). Stay for a meal at one of two revolving restaurants. Skylon Tower opened in 1964. It was financed by Charles Richard Reese, the former co-owner of the H. R. Reese Candy Company.
5200 Robinson St, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 2A3, Canada
The real attraction of Clifton Hill is, well, the attractions. Lots of them! Among your choices are three wax museums, five haunted houses, three video arcades, a fun house, a casino and several rides. Your wallet will be further tempted at gift shops, theme restaurants and night clubs. The only difference between a fair midway and Clifton Hill is the attractions are contained within storefronts. If you don’t have an enjoyable day at the “Street of Fun,” then you are a natural killjoy.
4967 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N4, Canada
The visual centerpiece of Clifton Hill is Niagara SkyWheel. The giant Ferris wheel reaches an awesome height of 175 feet. You will slowly rotate for eight to 12 minutes while seated in one of a dozen, temperature-controlled gondolas. The elevated views are spectacular!
4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N4, Canada
Next to Niagara SkyWheel is Dinosaur Adventure Golf. This is mini-golf on steroids and the largest in Canada. The popular attraction has two, 18-hole courses spread across 70,000 square feet. Among the hazards are 50 life-size dinosaurs. Threatening their existence – and yours – is a 50 foot active volcano. You will shudder during each violent eruption of billowing smoke and fire.
4952 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N4, Canada
A bit of a walk from the central tourist district – or a short drive – is the Niagara Military Museum. Housed in the former Niagara Falls Armory are exhibits about the Canadian military who served on the Niagara Peninsula during the 20th century. Admission is free.
5049 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 4E2, Canada
Niagara Parkway is a scenic drive stretching for 35 miles along the Niagara River. The waterfalls are roughly in the middle. The southern terminus is Fort Erie on Lake Erie. The end in the north is Niagara-on-the-Lake on Lake Ontario. Technically, you can make the 13.5 mile ride along the northern route in less than a half hour. There is no chance of that happening. Schedule the better part of a day in order to visit many of the exciting places along the way. The next 22 photos recommend some of the best stops.
6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T2, Canada
If your vacation is not complete without hitting the greens, then you will not be disappointed around Niagara Falls. There are three professional-quality, 18-hole courses endorsed by Niagara Parks. The two closest to the central tourist district are Battlefield Golf Course and Ussher’s Creek Golf Course. These players are teeing off at the Whirlpool Golf Course, designed by Stanley Thompson. Whirlpool is rated within Canada’s top 50 courses and among the best in terms of value. Other options include Thundering Waters, Grand Niagara Resort and Oak Hall Par 3 Golf Club. Residents might prefer joining one of several private country clubs.
3500 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6S6, Canada
Before beginning your game at the Whirlpool Golf Course, drop the family off at WildPlay Whirlpool Adventure Course across the street. Rest assured they will have loads of fun and not miss you one bit. The attraction has been thrilling visitors of all ages since opening in 2017. Among the features are rope swings, cargo nets, wobbly bridges, jump lines and zip lines. The courses are rated for children as young as five to daredevil adults with nerves of steel.
3500 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 3E8, Canada
The Whirlpool facilities are perched on Thompson’s Point. The overlook provides a stunning panoramic view of the Niagara Whirlpool and Gorge. Consider riding on the aerial tramway. The Whirlpool Aero Car travels a distance of 1,770 feet at an elevation of 250 feet. If you want a thrill ride along one of the world’s fastest river currents, then opt for a 45 to 60 minute jet boat adventure. Your smile will get soaking wet.
3500 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 3E8, Canada
Experienced hiking enthusiasts will want to stop at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre. The facility will educate you on the flora, fauna and geology of the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve. Then, lace up your best shoes before selecting among the nine available trails ranging from moderate to difficult. You will weave along rugged paths through the Carolinian forest, inspect fossils in 400-million-year-old cliffs and marvel at the water rushing through the Niagara Whirlpool and Gorge. Guided tours are available during the tourist season.
3050 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E, Canada
Since 1936, the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens have delighted visitors with 100 acres of flowers. The visual and fragrant highlight are over 2,400 roses. Popular among children is the Butterfly Conservatory featuring more than 2,000 tropical butterflies. The grounds of the Botanical Gardens are maintained by students of the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture. This institution provides a 36 month program for those seeking a professional career in garden cultivation and management.
2565 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2S7, Canada
The Sir Adam Beck Hydroelectric Stations consists of two power plants managed by Ontario Power Generation. The combined 26 generators produce up to 1,997 megawatts of power. When the first facility became operational in 1922, it was the world’s biggest hydroelectric station. From this stop along the Niagara Parkway, you can also admire the New York Power Authority dam across the river. The 13 generators on the United States side is called the Robert Moses Niagara Hydroelectric Power Station.
14000 Niagara Pkwy, Queenston, ON L0S 1L0, Canada
In 1950, Dr. Richard Hearn, then chairman of Ontario Hydro, was impressed by a floral clock he saw in Edinburgh, Scotland. Upon his return home, he commissioned the world’s largest adjacent to the power plant. There are 16,000 to 24,000 flowers across the 40 foot diameter clock. In lieu of the typical numbers one through twelve are the letters spelling Niagara Parks. At the summit is a 24 foot tower. It plays the Westminster Chimes every quarter hour. The water garden in front measures 85 feet long and 10 feet wide.
14004 Niagara Pkwy, Queenston, ON L0S 1L0, Canada
Queenston Heights Park is scenic, serene and historic plus well-equipped for families. You are standing atop a 300 foot promontory overlooking the Niagara River. This gorgeous vista marks the southern terminus of the Bruce Trail. Canada’s oldest footpath traces part of the Niagara Escarpment, an incredibly beautiful UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. You’d better be confident of your hiking abilities before you start. The Bruce Trail extends over 555 miles!
14184 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
On October 13, 1812, American soldiers launched a pre-emptive attack by crossing the Niagara River from Lewiston, New York. Their goal was to overpower British regulars stationed at Queenston Heights in Canada. The strategy was a disaster. Although the Americans outnumbered their enemy nearly three to one (3,550 to 1,300), they suffered a bloody defeat. Among the handful of British to die was Major General Isaac Brock. The hero is buried below this 184 foot limestone monument. Also located within Queenston Heights Park is the remnants of Fort Drummond. The redoubt was built by the British in 1814. The United States Army briefly occupied the fort during the Battle of Chippawa.
14184 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
There are endless dining options in Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake but surprisingly few between the two. A wonderful exception is the Queenston Heights Restaurant. Located in the park off of Niagara Parkway, the venue combines charm, fine cuisine and wonderful views of the Niagara River. Especially popular is their Sunday brunch.
14184 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
People under the age of 40 barely know what a typewriter is let alone a printing press with hand-set movable type. A visit to the Mackenzie Printery and Newspaper Museum is your chance to see operating presses from the early 19th century. One of them – the Louis Roy Press – dates from 1798. This Georgian home located in Queenston was the former residence of William Lyon Mackenzie. He was perceived as radical when he published the first edition of the Colonial Advocate Newspaper in 1824. He advocated for significant reform of the British-influenced government of Upper Canada. Eleven years later, he became Toronto’s first mayor.
1 Queenston St, Queenston, ON L0S 1L0, Canada
George Neal was a Scottish-born major with the British Army during the War of Independence. After the United States declared victory, Neal fled to Canada and arrived in Queenston in 1786. He soon became Canada’s first Saddlebag Preacher of Methodism. This was in sharp contrast to the Church of England recognized as the only religion by the British. This historic clapboard building was the town’s first Methodist Church. In 1925, it became part of the United Church of Canada. In 1997, it was donated to the Niagara Parks Commission.
29 Queenston St, Queenston, ON L0S 1L0, Canada
The Canadian equivalent of Paul Revere is Laura Ingersoll Secord. In June of 1813, she overheard American soldiers discussing plans to attack British troops at Beaver Dams. A victory there would have solidified their strongholds over Queenston and Niagara. So, the five foot, four inch woman walked 20 miles through hostile territory to warn British Lieutenant James FitzGibbon. Her patriotism resulted in the American troops being surrounded then surrendering. This was Secord’s homestead from 1803 until 1835. While in Canada, you will see monuments, buildings and even a popular candy company named in the heroine’s honor.
29 Queenston St, Queenston, ON L0S 1L0, Canada
Duck your head as you enter the Living Water Wayside Chapel. The 72 square foot interior is barely enough room for six worshippers or curious tourists. This quaint, dollhouse-like structure is the smallest chapel in the world. It was built by the Niagara Falls Christian Reformed Church in 1964 and relocated along the Niagara Parkway in 2012.
15796 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
At the age of 24, Scottish-born John McFarland became a laborer for building and repairing ships in North America for the British Royal Navy. He was soon recognized for his ability to identify excellent wood for watercraft. In 1780, he was transferred to Fort Niagara to locate timber supplies. After the American Revolutionary War, he became rich acquiring thousands of acres of forests on the Niagara Peninsula and selling the premium lumber. He built this lavish Georgian residence in 1800. Four generations of McFarland’s lived off the patriarch’s wealth at this estate. You are invited. Costumed tour guides will show you around the property. You can also enjoy afternoon tea at the Conservatory Tea Room.
15927 Niagara Parkway Recreational Trail, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L2E 6T2, Canada
Wine enthusiasts may be surprised to learn Ontario has a booming wine industry. The reason is Niagara Peninsula is on the same latitude as southern France. The area also enjoys an ideal microclimate provided by Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment. This is perfect conditions for excellent reds, rosés and whites plus fruit wines and icewines. Maps are available so you can tour some of the 170 local vineyards. A scrumptious example are the award-winning wines from Peller Estates. The vineyard was named the Ontario Winery of the Year in 2018. Is your taste for wine insatiable? Then you will also relish samples along the Niagara Wine Trail on the United States side of the Niagara River.
290 John St E, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
The British soldiers stationed at Fort George during the War of 1812 were from the 41st Regiment. They wore the traditional red coats. This squad marching in formation is one of several reenactments your camera can photograph during your visit at this National Historic Site of Canada. The fortress was built at the end of the 18th century. The name honored King George III of the United Kingdom. It was the headquarters for Major General Isaac Brock before he died at the Battle of Queenston Heights in 1812. The Americans overpowered Fort George in May of 1813 and then abandoned it in December. Afterwards, the British occupied the fortification again until 1815. There are 14 buildings at Fort George for you to explore. All of them were reconstructed during the late 1930s. Only the Powder Magazine is an original structure.
51 Queen's Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
Your 13 mile northerly drive along Niagara Parkways from Niagara Falls ends at Niagara-on-the-Lake. This town of 17,000 residents is the epitome of quaint and charming. Savor every casual step through Old Town. Nestled in early 19th century buildings along Queen Street are boutique shops, galleries and restaurants waiting to be explored. In the center of the historic district is the Memorial Clock Tower designed by Charles M. Wilmott. The monument doubles as a cenotaph in memory of local soldiers who died during World War I.
26 Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
Royal George Theatre opened as a vaudeville house during World War I before becoming a cinema in the 1950s. It now has live performances for up to 313 people within its Edwardian-decorated interior. Two other stages in Old Town are the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre (200 seats) and the Festival Theatre (capacity for 856). All three venues host the Shaw Festival. The season runs from April through October. Most plays were either written by George Bernard Shaw or are similar to the Irish playwright’s style. Approximately 250,000 people attend these productions each year. They are performed by North America’s second largest repertory theatre company.
85 Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
Options for eating are plentiful at Niagara-on-the-Lake. Cuisine choices span the globe including Italian, Greek, Irish, Mediterranean, American, Asian and, of course, Canadian. Settings range from relaxed patios to white-tablecloth dining rooms. Almost all feature a long list of Niagara Peninsula wines. This restaurant with a botanical garden exterior is the Shaw Café and Wine Bar.
92 Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
This historic hotel was built in 1864 during the height of the Victorian Era. It was renamed the Prince of Wales after a stay in 1901 by George Albert. At the time, he was the Prince of Wales and later would become George V, King of the United Kingdom. The property also welcomed Queen Elizabeth in 1973. The elegant exterior promises a memorable vacation experience. The reality will exceed your expectations. Each of the 110 guest rooms is beautifully decorated with antiques blended with modern amenities. The common areas display sculpted woodwork and lush carpeting. The dining choices range from opulent to an outdoor patio. Another delight is sipping tea and tasting finger sandwiches in the Drawing Room.
6 Picton St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
A relaxing way to see the best sites of Niagara-on-the-Lake (the locals call their town NOTL) is aboard a horse-drawn carriage. You and three guests can opt for a 30, 45 or 60 minute narrated tour of Old Town, colonial homes and the shores of Lake Ontario. Your carriage awaits you outside of the Prince of Wales Hotel on the corners of King and Queen Streets. Afterwards, climb back into your car for a return trip to Niagara Falls.
6 Picton St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada
Hopefully, you enjoyed exploring the northern route of Niagara Parkway. Ready for the second half of this scenic drive? The southern route extends 13 miles from the waterfalls to Old Fort Erie. The balance of this guide highlights key points of interest along the way. If you don’t have a car, the first five spots are within walking distance. Begin at the Cascade Rapids above Horseshoe Falls. Notice the brown rectangle in the top left corner. This is the Niagara Scow. On August 6, 1918, two employees of the Niagara Falls Power Company were dredging sand when their barge broke loose. The runaway vessel floated precariously along the rapids. 838 yards before plunging over Horseshoe Falls, it miraculously stopped on a submerged rock. The two men were rescued after 17 harrowing hours.
Niagara Pkwy & Fraser Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1A0, Canada
About a half mile south of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls is the Floral Showhouse. This greenhouse is wonderful. The flowers and plants displayed are rotated eight times a year so each visit is unique. During the height of the tourism season, the grounds encircling Floral Showhouse are as beautiful and fragrant as the interior.
7145 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada
The first hydroelectric power plant in the world was built at Niagara Falls in 1895. Based on its success, a second one was added. The Toronto Power Generating Station opened in 1906. At its peak capacity, it created 132 megawatts of power. All of that energy was transferred to the city of Toronto. Since the plant closed in 1974, it has remained empty. There is nothing to see inside. Yet fans of architecture will appreciate the façade’s stunning Beaux-Arts design with Greco-Roman features.
7230 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1A0, Canada
The most scenic view of the Niagara Falls skyline can be enjoyed at the Old Scow Lookout Point. Rising above the mist of Horseshoe Falls are all of the city’s high-rises. There are a dozen hotels above 135 feet. The tallest is the Hilton Niagara Falls Tower 2 (third from the right). At 564 feet, this hotel is also the tallest in Canada. Taking second place in Niagara Falls is the Skylon Tower (far right). The observation tower stands 518 feet.
7230 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1A0, Canada
Few tourists visit Chippawa Battlefield. When you arrive, you will not be impressed by the 300 acre open field with a single monument and three flagpoles. Start reading the informative plaques about the Niagara Campaign. You will soon be mesmerized while learning about the bloody events of July, 1814, when American troops clashed with the British. They first secured Fort Erie on July 3. Two days later, a combined 4,000 men engaged in fierce combat on this field. When the smoke cleared from the muskets and cannons, over 700 lay dead or wounded. The Americans victory was one of the first against British veteran soldiers in Upper Canada during the War of 1812. With boosted confidence, the Americans attacked the British again on July 25 near today’s Niagara Falls. Over 250 soldiers died during the Battle of Lundy’s Lane. The result was a stalemate.
Niagara Pkwy & Edgworth Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6S6, Canada
The last stop on the southern route of Niagara Parkway is Old Fort Erie. This is a fascinating living history museum. Period-costumed soldiers conduct reenactments and explain the fort’s major role during the War of 1812. Here’s an overview. The British built two supply outposts here at the northeastern tip of Lake Erie during the late 18th century. The current fortification was constructed between 1805 and 1808. This National Historic Site of Canada was a pawn between the Americans and British during the Niagara Campaign. The Americans first overpowered the fort in 1813. A few months later they retreated. On July 3, 1814, the Americans regained control. This set the stage for the bloodiest combat in Canada’s history. During the Siege of Fort Erie (August 3 through September 21, 1814), the Americans successfully defended the fortress against repeated British assaults. Yet the cost was very high. The combined casualties of dead, wounded, captured and missing exceeded 2,500 soldiers. And what was gained? Not much! About six weeks later, the Americans destroyed Fort Erie before returning to Buffalo, New York. On Christmas Eve, the Treaty of Ghent was signed and the War of 1812 was over.
350 Lakeshore Rd, Fort Erie, ON L2A 1B1, Canada