What to do in Niagara Falls, NY

Activities, attractions and tours

A waterfall, a cityscape, and a rainbow.
A large waterfall with a river flowing around it, surrounded by trees and a small town.
A large waterfall with a viewing platform and autumn-colored trees in the background.
A pathway through a forest with autumn-colored trees.
A large waterfall with multiple cascades, surrounded by greenery and a distant town.

Niagara Falls Attractions

Whilst the world-renowned waterfalls here bring tourists in their droves, the city of Niagara Falls has plenty else to offer once they arrive. Packed with historic sites, amusements, museums, eateries and other attractions, it’s not hard to see why this city is one of the most visited in the world. Head off the beaten track for some peace and reflection by all means but the magnificent backdrop of this astounding natural wonder will keep pulling you back. Packed with activities for whole family, Niagara Falls is a definite must-see for any visitor to Ontario.

Areas & Neighbourhoods in Niagara Falls

Clifton Hill — Lit by dazzling lights from dozens of amusement rides, popular restaurants, gift shops and video arcades, Clifton Hill is home to the city’s main attractions, including the Skylon Tower and the Niagara SkyWheel. It also has a funky nightlife that’s sure to keep party-goers entertained.

Fallsview Tourist Area — The launching pad for countless guided boat tours and viewing experiences, the Fallsview Tourist Area promises dramatic views across the Niagara River and is packed with all the amenities and restaurants you could hope to choose from.

Queen Victoria Park — Safe to say, there’s no park in the world quite like this one. It has immaculately maintained lawns and a floral rainbow of spring and summer blooms. But what really makes this park unique is its unbeatable location right beside the Niagara Falls.

Chippawa — Often overlooked, the nearby village of Chippawa offers welcome respite from the excitement of Niagara Falls. Brimful with charming architecture and heritage museums, Chippawa offers a glimpse into the region’s history and its peaceful parks promise a well-earned moment of peace and quiet.

Things to See in Niagara Falls

Many don’t realise that Niagara Falls is actually the collective name for three separate waterfalls, the largest and most iconic of which are the Horseshoe Falls in Ontario. Although from here the smaller Bridal Veil Falls are obscured from view, the region promises an unbeaten scene across the Niagara River to the American Falls, which as the name suggests, reside on the US side of the border. Enhance the view by taking the Niagara Gorge Wine Tour or, if you have a head for heights rather than a clouded vision, be sure to take a snap of Niagara Falls’ fantastically futuristic skyline, dominated by the Skylon Tower.

Things to Do in Niagara Falls

Fancy a dip? Don’t tumble over the falls in a barrel – the more sensible option is to head to Fallsview Indoor Water Park! Great fun for adults and kids, the park has a wave machine, several fast-paced waterslides, an outdoor pool and all the amenities you need for a fun-packed family day out. Top it off with a boat tour or helicopter experience across Niagara Falls, visit Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks or get hands-on with exotic reptiles and feathered friends at Bird Kingdom. You can also discover the city’s lesser-known gems with an Urban Adventure Tour.

You can also book top Niagara Falls hotels and great Niagara Falls holidays right here on Expedia.co.uk.

Things to do


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Top places to visit

1. Niagara Falls State Park

Niagara Falls may be the iconic American vacation destination. With its blowing winds and powerful water, there is no better place to appreciate the forces of nature. The falls are not just pretty, but also very powerful; more water passes over these waterfalls than any other waterfall in the world. Whether you are a nature buff or not, Niagara Falls State Park is a fascinating place to explore.
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A large waterfall cascading into a river surrounded by lush greenery and cliffs.

2. Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge was built between 1940 and ’41 to replace the Falls View Bridge, which was also known as “Honeymoon Bridge.” It collapsed in January 1938, the result of an ice jam. The new bridge was constructed atop 50-foot (15-meter) abutments to avoid a repeat of the disaster. It is 950-feet (290-meters) long and sits 202 feet (62 meters) above the Niagara River. The bridge is on the border of Canada and the USA.
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A river with a waterfall, a bridge, and autumn foliage.

3. Cave of the Winds

Take the spectacular Cave of the Winds tour at Niagara Falls, one of the world’s largest cascades. Bring a waterproof camera and prepare to get wet; this tour brings you within exhilarating striking distance of the torrential waters.
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A boat on a river, a red bridge, and green vegetation.

4. Maid of the Mist

When you step on a Maid of the Mist boat, from either the U.S. or Canadian side, you are embarking on the second-most popular boat tour in North America. Get ready for an exciting — and wet — adventure past American and Bridal Veil Falls, right into the ferocious mist and spray of Horseshoe Falls.
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A group of people in blue rain ponchos watching a large waterfall.

5. Aquarium of Niagara

The Aquarium of Niagara is small, but packed with things to do and see. Feed a Humboldt penguin from Peru. Watch California sea lions frolic, balance balls on their noses, then applaud themselves. Learn about rescued harbor seals while the trainers introduce each one by name and feed them. In summer, you can even help with feeding the animals. Wonder at tidal pool creatures such as anemones, clams and baby sole as they are fed individually by hand. Or, just wander at your leisure among the range of themed aquariums. You’ll see Great Lakes fish, such as sturgeon and trout, as well as creatures of the Amazon, including piranhas and seahorses.
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An aquarium building with a mural of whales on the side, a yellow umbrella, and a staircase leading to the entrance.

Recommended things to do in Niagara Falls

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What to do in Niagara Falls


Stay near popular Niagara Falls attractions

Where to stay in Niagara Falls

Find the best Niagara Falls areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Niagara Falls
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Downtown Niagara Falls

The enchanting waterfalls and first-class casinos are just a few highlights of Downtown Niagara Falls. Make a stop by Niagara Falls State Park or Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino while you're exploring the area.

Little Italy

Though Little Italy may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Niagara Falls State Park and Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino.

La Salle

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in La Salle and surrounding area, you can visit Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls and Niagara Falls State Park.


 

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Day trip destinations from Niagara Falls

Frequently asked questions

Is Niagara Falls worth visiting?
Whether you plan to discover the local charm and cultural highlights or sample regional foods and explore the outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Niagara Falls.
How do I spend a day in Niagara Falls?
Once you've visited key attractions like Cave of the Winds and Aquarium of Niagara, spend the rest of your day exploring Niagara Falls's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Niagara Falls?
Cave of the Winds is one of the top tourist attractions in Niagara Falls and should be high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Niagara Falls?
Three days will be enough time to check out the leading city attractions, such as Cave of the Winds, Aquarium of Niagara and Bridal Veil Falls. The average stay in Niagara Falls is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Buffalo isn't far away.
Is Niagara Falls a walkable city?
It comes down to what you'd like to do and see in Niagara Falls. Several top attractions, such as Cave of the Winds, are reachable on foot. If you feel like a stroll around one of Niagara Falls's vibrant neighbourhoods, Downtown Niagara Falls is 0.48 kms (0.30 miles) away from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Niagara Falls with kids?
Deciding what to do in Niagara Falls with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're holidaying with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly attractions to keep them entertained here.
What to do in Niagara Falls for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Niagara Falls, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Old Falls Street or Niagara Falls Culinary Institute.
Are there free things to do in Niagara Falls?
From checking out parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Niagara Falls. If you're stuck for ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Prospect Point Observation Deck is a top spot for anyone planning to save on their travel adventures.