The Canadian Side of Niagara Falls: Seeing More Than Just the Falls

Beyond the Mist: Exploring the Enchanting Canadian Side of Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake

This year I embarked on an adventure that promised to be nothing short of extraordinary. The destination? Niagara Falls – renowned for its natural beauty and awe-inspiring grandeur. But I had a twist in my travel plans – I was determined to see more than just the legendary falls and explore more of the area around them.

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I’ve heard tales of the mighty Niagara Falls and its thunderous roar, but I was equally curious about what lay beyond the misty spray. On a recent trip to Toronto, I decided that I was so close, that a day trip to explore the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, as well as its charming neighbor, Niagara-on-the-Lake was in order. So I booked a day trip with a local tour provider and was off!

Day Trip from Toronto

Niagara Falls is an easy day trip from Toronto, Canada. Just a two-hour drive away (with light traffic) from downtown Toronto, makes it an accessible and popular day trip for tourists visiting this part of Canada. But what many people don’t realize is that the Canadian side of Niagara offers much more than just the waterfalls themselves.

With a little bit of planning, you can experience a diverse range of activities beyond the main attractions here (the falls). From heart-stopping adventures to serene nature walks taking in breathtaking views of Niagara Falls, there are plenty of options for you and your family.

Guided Tours for Hassle-Free Exploration

One of the smartest decisions I made was booking a guided tour with transportation from Toronto to Niagara Falls. Not only did it take the stress out of driving, but it also provided me with invaluable insights from my knowledgeable guide. The morning drive took about 145 minutes with a comfort stop a little over halfway. The return trip from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Toronto took more than twice as long because of traffic getting back into the city.

Yet, I wasn’t driving, so it was a hassle-free experience that allowed me to focus on the adventure at hand and get the most out of my day trip.

I booked the Small-Group Niagara Falls Day Trip with TRUEXPERIENCES TOURS via Get Your Guide. The tour included round-trip transportation from Toronto with stops at Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Gorge, Niagara Floral Clock, and the infamous Niagara Hornblower Cruises boat tour of the falls. Our guide also took us to lesser-known spots with stunning views of the falls that I would have never discovered on my own.

Is a guided tour necessary? No, but highly recommended. It’s an efficient and convenient way to explore the Canadian side of Niagara Falls for first-timers or those looking for a well-rounded experience.

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Things to Do on the Candian Side of Niagara Falls

Before diving into the exciting activities on the Canadian side, it’s essential to appreciate the natural wonder that draws millions of visitors each year. Niagara Falls isn’t just one waterfall; it’s actually comprised of three distinct falls. Let’s take a closer look at each:

1. Horseshoe Falls (Canadian Falls):

The grandest of them all, Canadian Horseshoe Falls, is aptly named due to its curved shape resembling a horseshoe.
It stands at an impressive 57 meters (188 feet) in height and spans about 670 meters (2,200 feet) across.
A staggering 90% of the Niagara River’s water flow rushes over Horseshoe Falls, creating the deafening roar and mesmerizing mist that visitors can’t get enough of.

2. American Falls:

Located on the American side in New York state, these falls are slightly smaller but no less impressive.
American Falls stand at about 21 meters (70 feet) in height and span approximately 260 meters (850 feet) across.
Despite their beauty, they are often overshadowed by their larger Canadian counterpart.

3. Bridal Veil Falls:

Situated next to the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls is the smallest of the three.
It’s just 15 meters (50 feet) in height and spans a mere 50 meters (160 feet) across.
The name comes from its delicate appearance, resembling a bride’s veil.

Two Entry Points:

When visiting Niagara Falls, you have two primary entry points:

Canadian Side: Known for offering the most spectacular views of the falls from shore, the Canadian side boasts attractions like Queen Victoria Park and the Niagara Parkway, making it a popular choice for visitors looking to get up close and personal with the falls. The Niagara Hornblower Cruises boat tour departs from the Canadian side.
American Side: While the American side may have slightly smaller falls, it offers its own unique experiences. The American Falls State Park and the Observation Tower provide excellent vantage points. The Maid of the Mist boat tour offers an unforgettable perspective from the water from the US shore.

Travel Tip: You can easily cross the border between Canada and the United States with a valid passport at The Niagara Falls International Rainbow Bridge. Also known as the Rainbow Bridge, this bridge crosses the Niagara River and connects both countries. It is one of the busiest border crossings between the two countries, making it a popular destination for travelers.

Other Fascinating Facts:

The falls’ formation dates back millions of years due to the erosion of the Niagara Escarpment.
Niagara Falls isn’t just beautiful; it’s also a valuable source of hydroelectric power, generating electricity for both Canada and the United States.
In winter, the falls can partially freeze, creating a stunning ice-covered spectacle.

Take a Boat Tour to the Falls

The top tourist attraction on the Canadian side and the American side is, of course, Niagara Falls itself. And what better way to experience it than by taking a boat tour? I highly recommend the Hornblower Niagara Cruises on the Canadian side, which takes you up close and personal with the falls for an unforgettable experience.

You can’t fully appreciate the sheer power and magnitude of Niagara Falls until you’re standing in front of it on a boat, surrounded by its mist. This boat tour is surprisingly short, just 20 minutes, but it’s the highlight of any trip to Niagara Falls.

Here are some travel tips I learned from my tour guide:

Taking the Funicular

The funicular will take you from the street level, down the cliff, into the Niagara River Gorge where the boats load/unload. It is included in the price of your Hornblower ticket.

BUT, if this line to board and ride the funicular from the street level down into the gorge is really long, you can opt to walk down the walkway instead. It is an easy walk down and there is also an elevator. If you are on the street looking at the water, you’ll find this walkway on your right-hand side. Just look for the signs.

I took the walkway down and it saved a lot of time. My group walked right onto the boat and once we returned, we rode the funicular on the way up. The return trips are less crowded as people are more staggered.

Do the Boat Tour First

In my opinion, the best way to maximize your time here is to plan to do the boat tour as soon as you arrive. This way, you can get it out of the way and enjoy the rest of your day exploring other activities without worrying about getting wet. Lines form quickly, so the earlier you go, the better.

Where Can You Find the Best Views Aboard the Niagara Hornblower Cruise?

When you board, try to get as close to the front on the upper observation deck as possible. The left side of the boat will give you the best views. Beware! This location is ALSO the location where you will get the WETTEST!

The boat will take you as close to the falls as possible, and you will get wet from both the mist and the powerful spray. But don’t worry; it’s all part of the experience!

Tricks to Getting Less Wet

Rain ponchos are included with your ticket purchase and you will get it as you board the boat. To help prevent your poncho from flying around from the wind created by the waterfalls, tie a knot in the bottom of the poncho near your legs to reduce the opening. It will help keep the poncho down and keep you from getting as wet.

If you are taking pictures with a cell phone, bring a waterproof case or a plastic bag to prevent it from getting wet. You will have to hold onto your phone or camera the entire time as there is no place to store them on the boat.

Great Viewing Spots

To truly experience the awe-inspiring might of the Horseshoe, position yourself at the front of the boat’s upper deck. Once you’ve witnessed the falls up close, the boat returns along the Niagara Gorge. Consider moving to the opposite side of the boat to gain unique perspectives of the falls. Take your time and appreciate every angle, as the views are nothing short of breathtaking.

Other Activities on the Canadian Side

Aside from experiencing Niagara Falls themselves, there are plenty of other things to do on the Ontario side. Here are some of my top picks for the best things to do on the Canadian side of the falls:

Table Rock Welcome Center

Located down from the falls, the welcome center building is your gateway to the other attractions, including Journey Behind the Falls and Niagara’s Fury. Here you will also find shopping and dining options here. I visited after taking the boat tower and found it very busy after lunch.

For dining options, you have both quick counter service and sit-down restaurant options. I opted for a sandwich at the coffee shop because it had the shortest line. Food was good and prices were reasonable.

There are also souvenir shops on both the upper and lower levels for those looking to take home a bit of Niagara Falls.

Journey Behind the Falls

For a unique perspective, take an elevator down 45 meters (150 feet) through bedrock to 130-year-old tunnels that lead you behind the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. You’ll see the thundering water from a whole new angle.

Reservations are not required but are highly recommended. I did not make reservations for this and was unable to secure a time slot within the 3 hours I would be in the area. Sadly I wasn’t able to do this of the other items on the list below.

Niagara’s Fury

This 4D immersive experience that tells the story of Niagara Falls’ formation is a must-see for any family looking to explore the area. From the interactive 3D projections to the dynamic audio commentary – this experience will bring Niagara Falls alive and make learning about it more enjoyable than ever before! The entire tour lasts about an hour.

Centre Street

This bustling street is known as the “street of fun” and offers a variety of family-friendly activities like mini-golf, wax museums, and haunted houses. It’s also home to the iconic Niagara SkyWheel, which provides stunning views of both the falls and the city.

Niagara Parks Power Plant

Located south of Table Rock Welcome Center, near the Horseshoe Falls, this power plant offers free tours and provides insight into how Niagara Falls is used to generate electricity. You can get tickets for the tour online or in person at the power plant. The tour lasts about an hour and is filled with interesting facts and history that are sure to entertain everyone in your group.

Butterfly Conservatory

For a more relaxed activity, head to the Butterfly Conservatory where you can stroll through a tropical paradise and botanical garden filled with over 2,000 butterflies.

Floral Clock

The Floral Clock is a must-see when you’re in the city. Its intricate flower designs make it one of the most beautiful sights in town. It’s a great way to experience some of the local culture and get a better understanding of what makes this city so special. Plus, it’s free!

Explore Queen Victoria Park

This beautifully landscaped park is located alongside the Canadian side of Niagara Falls and provides stunning views of the falls. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with the family.

Skylon Tower

Enjoy panoramic views of Niagara Falls from the observation deck located atop the Skylon Tower. There is also a revolving restaurant and other attractions to explore.

White Water Walk

Hike along a boardwalk trail and experience the thundering sound of the Niagara River as it crashes over the edge of the Horseshoe Falls.

Whirlpool Aero Car

Take an aerial ride above the beautiful Whirlpool Rapids on this historical cable car that has been in operation since 1916. The car crossing spans a length of 3500 feet and is both thrilling and beautiful, as you get to experience the power of Class 6 rapids below.

The ride takes about 45 minutes. You can buy tickets for the car at the welcome center or at the cable car crossing itself about a ten-minute drive north of the welcome center.

Niagara-on-the-Lake: A Charming Town with Character

Depending on the experience you want, you can also take a trip to the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, a destination all on its own situated on Lake Ontario. It’s full of unique shops, restaurants, and activities for all ages. The Old Town district offers a taste of history with its preserved buildings like Fort George as well as gardens and parks to enjoy.

As I mentioned earlier, the attractions I was most interested in seeing and experiencing were the Hornblower cruise, Journey under the Falls, and a visit to this quaint little town. The small group tour I booked skipped the entertainment district across for the Canadian side waterfalls, and made short stops at the floral clock and aero car, before traveling onto Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The route itself was a sight to behold, showcasing lush vineyards and picturesque landscapes. The vibe of this town is very different from the hustle and bustle of Niagara Falls. It was a welcome change of pace and I’m so glad I chose to come here after seeing the falls.

Niagara-on-the-Lake can be crowded during the summer months but if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the best time to head here is in the spring or fall. When visiting with a tour group, you are shuttled into town and dropped off just behind Queen Street, the main drag.

In town, you can enjoy some delicious local restaurants and meander through the shops featuring Canadian-made crafts. The shops here are each quite unique and full of character that can’t be found anywhere else. From boutiques to bakeries, you’ll find something special to take home with you after your visit!

What to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake may be a small town, but it’s rich in history and offers plenty of things to do. Here are some of my top recommendations:

Wine Tours

The Niagara Peninsula is dotted with small wineries. Wine lovers can easily visit four to five wineries or tasting rooms in a day. Spend your afternoon sampling the region’s award-winning wines and taking in the pastoral landscape of vineyard-covered hills, tranquil ponds, and winding roads. For a little extra adventure, try renting an electric bike from one of the local wineries to get around!

Shaw Festival

This annual theater festival features a variety of plays and musicals throughout the summer months. It’s a great way to experience some culture while in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Shopping on Queen Street

The main street of Niagara-on-the-Lake is lined with charming shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Be sure to shop on the side streets too. You can find some lovely boutiques, hand-made items, and ice cream shops. I especially enjoyed my time at the Niagara Home Bakery, BeauCapeau Hat Shop, and Neob Lavender where I bought a lavender spray to spray on my pillow at bedtime.

Cool as a Moose is the popular ice cream shop here. But when I went, I found that the line was just too long. So I found a nice shop one block up on Victoria Street called Victoria’s Teas and Coffee that also served ice cream without a wait.

Fort George National Historic Site

Step back in time at this historic site that played a significant role in the War of 1812. Visitors can tour the fort and watch demonstrations of military drills and musket firings.

Visit the Apothecary Museum

At this museum, visitors can learn about the history of pharmacy and medicine in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The museum features a variety of artifacts, documents, and displays. It is fun to walk around in this single-room museum. There are all kinds of things on display in the cases.

Unexpectedly, I found pictures of the British Royal Family from a past visit in one of the display cases. Staff are help to chat about anything in the museum.

Conclusion

As I left Niagara Falls, I realized that there’s more to this destination than its iconic falls. My journey was a testament to the spirit of adventure, exploration, and family bonding. We had seen more than just the falls; we had discovered the heart of Niagara.

From the exhilarating experience of getting up close to Niagara Falls to the peaceful beauty of Niagara-on-the-Lake, there’s no shortage of activities near Niagara Falls & things to do in Ontario for visitors to enjoy.

To all fellow adventurers, I encourage you to plan your own Canadian side exploration. Book a guided tour, savor the local cuisine, and support the community. There’s an entire world of adventure waiting beyond the falls, and it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re looking for some outdoor adventure or simply a relaxing day spent sightseeing, you can find it all here. So come and explore the things to do near Niagara Falls, Canada today!

For more information about the small group tour (15 people maximum) I booked, read more and book tickets here. Prices start at $205 per person.

Note: As a Get Your Guide partner, I receive complimentary tickets for editorial purposes.

For more itinerary planning ideas while in Canada, read more:

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The Canadian Side of Niagara Falls: Seeing More Than Just the Falls