Map Of Niagara Falls Ontario Travel Guide
Introduction
Niagara Falls, Ontario, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning waterfalls and natural beauty. However, this city has much more to offer than just its famous attraction. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Niagara Falls
The Niagara Falls is the most famous attraction in the area. It is made up of three waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. Visitors can experience the falls up close by taking the Maid of the Mist boat tour or walking along the Niagara Parkway.
Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens is a beautiful oasis located just north of the falls. The gardens feature a collection of over 2,400 roses, a butterfly conservatory, and a greenhouse filled with tropical plants.
Niagara SkyWheel
The Niagara SkyWheel is a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the falls and the city. It is open year-round and is especially beautiful at night when the falls are lit up.
Hidden Gems
Whirlpool Aero Car
The Whirlpool Aero Car is a cable car that takes visitors over the Niagara Whirlpool. The whirlpool is a natural phenomenon caused by the Niagara River’s sharp turn. The ride offers stunning views of the whirlpool and the river.
Niagara Glen Nature Reserve
The Niagara Glen Nature Reserve is a hidden gem located just north of the falls. It features hiking trails, a boardwalk, and stunning views of the Niagara River. It is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.
Butterfly Conservatory
The Butterfly Conservatory is a hidden gem located just south of the falls. It features over 2,000 butterflies from around the world and is a great place to learn about these beautiful creatures.
Food Scene
Local Restaurants
Niagara Falls has a vibrant food scene with many local restaurants offering delicious cuisine. Some must-try dishes include poutine, maple syrup, and Niagara wines. Local favorites include The Keg Steakhouse, Weinkeller, and Napoli Ristorante & Pizzeria.
Food Tours
Food tours are a great way to explore the local food scene and try new dishes. Niagara Culinary Tours offers a variety of tours, including a wine and cheese tour and a chocolate tour.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Activities
There are many free activities in Niagara Falls, including hiking, visiting the parks and gardens, and attending free concerts and events. The Niagara Falls History Museum and the Niagara Falls Public Library are also free to visit.
Discounted Tickets
Discounted tickets to local attractions are available online and at local hotels and visitor centers. The Niagara Falls Adventure Pass offers discounted tickets to several attractions, including the Maid of the Mist and the Journey Behind the Falls.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
There are many hiking trails in Niagara Falls, including the Niagara Glen and the Bruce Trail. These trails offer stunning views of the falls and the river.
Biking
The Niagara River Recreation Trail is a popular biking route that runs along the Niagara River. It offers stunning views of the river and the falls.
Family-Friendly Activities
Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill is a family-friendly entertainment district located in the heart of Niagara Falls. It features attractions such as the Niagara SkyWheel, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and the Great Canadian Midway.
Butterfly Conservatory
The Butterfly Conservatory is a great place to visit with kids. They will love seeing the beautiful butterflies and learning about their life cycle.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming town located just north of Niagara Falls. It features historic buildings, boutique shops, and vineyards. It is a great place to spend a day exploring.
Welland Canal
The Welland Canal is a shipping canal located just south of Niagara Falls. Visitors can watch ships pass through the canal and learn about its history at the Welland Canal Centre.
Natural Wonders
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is the most famous natural wonder in the area. The falls are a stunning sight and offer many opportunities for outdoor activities.
Butterfly Conservatory
The Butterfly Conservatory is another natural wonder in the area. Visitors can see over 2,000 butterflies from around the world.
Vibrant Nightlife
Casinos
Niagara Falls has two casinos: Fallsview Casino Resort and Casino Niagara. Both offer a variety of gaming options, as well as live entertainment and dining.
Nightclubs
Niagara Falls has a vibrant nightlife scene with many nightclubs and bars. Some popular spots include Dragonfly Nightclub, Club Se7en, and Rumours Nightclub.
Local Markets
Niagara-on-the-Lake Farmers Market
The Niagara-on-the-Lake Farmers Market is a great place to buy local produce and artisanal goods. It is open on Saturdays from May to October.
St. Catharines Farmers Market
The St. Catharines Farmers Market is another great place to buy local produce and products. It is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Beaches and Mountains
Beaches
Niagara Falls has several beaches, including Sunset Beach and Queen’s Royal Beach. These beaches offer swimming, sunbathing, and picnic areas.
Mountains
The Niagara Escarpment is a range of mountains that runs through the area. It offers many opportunities for hiking and exploring.
Cultural Immersion
Niagara Falls History Museum
The Niagara Falls History Museum is a great place to learn about the area’s history. It features exhibits on the falls, the War of 1812, and the Underground Railroad.
Fort Erie Race Track
The Fort Erie Race Track is a historic horse racing track located just south of Niagara Falls. It has been in operation since 1897 and is a great place to experience the local culture.
Art and Music Scene
Shaw Festival Theatre
The Shaw Festival Theatre is a world-renowned theatre company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake. It offers a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.
Niagara Symphony Orchestra
The Niagara Symphony Orchestra is a professional orchestra that performs throughout the region. It offers a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.
Walking Tours
Niagara Falls Walking Tours
Niagara Falls Walking Tours offers a variety of tours, including a history tour, a food tour, and a nature tour. These tours are a great way to explore the area on foot.
Niagara-on-the-Lake Ghost Walks
The Niagara-on-the-Lake Ghost Walks are a spooky way to explore the town’s history. The tours are led by costumed guides and feature ghost stories and legends.
Architectural Marvels
Skylon Tower
The Skylon Tower is a 775-foot tower that offers stunning views of the falls and the city. It is also a marvel of modern architecture, with a sleek and futuristic design.
Old Fort Erie
Old Fort Erie is a historic fort located just south of Niagara Falls. It was built in 1764 and played a role in the War of 1812. Visitors can tour the fort and learn about its history.
Historical Sites
Brock’s Monument
Brock’s Monument is a historic monument located in Queenston Heights Park. It honors Sir Isaac Brock, a British general who fought in the War of 1812.
Underground Railroad
The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses used by African American slaves to escape to freedom in the 19th century. Niagara Falls played a role in the Underground Railroad, and visitors can learn