Niagara Falls (Ontario)

Niagara Falls, Ontario, is the self-proclaimed "Honeymoon Capital of the World". For over a century the grandeur of the waterfalls of the Niagara River have attracted tourists to this destination.

See Niagara Falls (New York) for information about the American side of the falls

The Horseshoe Falls. That's the United States on the left, and Canada on the right and in the background, in case you can't see the difference.

Understand

Niagara Falls was incorporated on June 12, 1903. Its population was 88,000 in 2016.

Mainly a tourist destination, the main attraction has always been Niagara Falls, which brings hundreds of thousands of tourists to the city. Tourism plays a major part in the economy of the region. Increasingly, visitors seeking more natural settings are finding the Niagara River to a great place to hike and visit downstream from the Falls where the majority of visitors go.

Visitor Welcome Centres open daily at 9AM, June through August. They offer advice and maps of the area, and sell People Mover bus tickets and the Great Gorge Adventure Pass. They are located at:

• Table Rock Centre (inside the mall near the brink of the Horseshoe Falls)
• Maid of the Mist (outside the Maid of the Mist ticket booths)
• Clifton Hill (at the intersection of Clifton Hill and Falls Avenue)
• Clifton Hill District (top of Clifton Hill Victoria Avenue area)
• Murray Street (near Queen Victoria Place, below the Fallsview Tourist Area and Fallsview Casino Resort)

Climate

Niagara Falls (Ontario)
Climate chart (explanation)
J F M A M J J A S O N D       70     −1 −8       67     −1 −8       76     5 −3       76     12 2       77     19 9       88     24 14       75     27 17       82     26 17       95     21 13       84     15 6       91     8 1       91     2 −5 Average max. and min. temperatures in °C Precipitation+Snow totals in mm See the Niagara Falls 7-day forecast at Environment Canada
Imperial conversion J F M A M J J A S O N D       2.8     30 18       2.6     30 18       3     41 27       3     54 36       3     66 48       3.5     75 57       3     81 63       3.2     79 63       3.7     70 55       3.3     59 43       3.6     46 34       3.6     36 23 Average max. and min. temperatures in °F Precipitation+Snow totals in inches

Spring: Temperatures range from 5° to 19°C (41°-66°F). Nightly temperatures range from -3° to 8° C (26° to 46°F). As temperature changes are sudden outdoor camping before mid-May is not advisable.

Summer: In June, July & August the weather is generally bright and sunny with sporadic rainfall. Storms are caused by Lake Erie and Lake Ontario and are seldom severe.

Fall: In the fall, it is unlikely to snow prior to the end of October. First killing frost and/or snowfall be expected by late October or early November. Mixed weather patterns prevail. Rain and cloudy skies are common.

Winter: The days are generally cold and clear. Snow is moderate. Snow storms are infrequent. Lake effect snowfalls are mainly localized to areas near Buffalo and southward. Lake Erie, during extended cold weather will freeze over completely. Some of the activities associated with the falls (e.g. Maid of the Mist and Marineland) do not run during winter due to the frozen conditions, but most attractions now remain open year-round, dealing with mist-related ice near Niagara Falls.

Get in

By plane

The closest airports to the Falls are across the border in the U.S. Buffalo-Niagara International Airport (BUF ^IATA) just outside of Buffalo, New York is about a 20-30 minute drive from the Falls and is served by most major American carriers. Niagara Falls International Airport (IAG ^IATA) is the closest airport to the Falls, but only a few scheduled flights serve it.

On the Canadian side, Hamilton International Airport (YHM ^IATA) in Hamilton is about 70 km (43 mi) from Niagara Falls, and is served by WestJet. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ ^IATA) in Mississauga is about a 1 1/2 hour drive from the Falls and is served by most major domestic and international carriers.

Buffalo Airport Shuttle, [phone], offers service from the Buffalo-Niagara airport to the Canadian side of the Falls. A family of 4 can expect to pay less than $25 per person and the drivers often have great tips on where to go and what to avoid.

By car

Niagara Falls is about 2 hours from Toronto (assuming ideal traffic conditions), and 30 minutes from Buffalo.

• From New York, Boston, and the East Coast: Take I-90 west towards Buffalo to the 290 west. Exit onto the 190 north towards Grand Island and Niagara Falls. Follow the highway through Grand Island, then take the exit immediately after the North Grand Island Bridge (as you're leaving the island) for the Niagara Scenic Parkway. Continue until in downtown Niagara Falls, New York. Proceed on Rainbow Boulevard, to the Rainbow Bridge, across to Niagara Falls, Ontario.
• From Chicago and the Midwest: Cross the international border at Detroit/Windsor, then take Ontario Highway 401 east to the 403 east. Divert around Hamilton via Lincoln M. Alexander Parkway and Red Hill Valley Parkway, which will lead you to the Niagara-bound QEW. Continue to Highway 420 (signs for The Falls and Niagara Falls, USA), which becomes Roberts Street. Stay straight to go onto Falls Avenue.

If you're coming from points east of Detroit, you can instead take I-90 east through Ohio and Pennsylvania, then at Buffalo exit at I-190 north. Pass through Grand Island, then take the exit immediately after the North Grand Island Bridge (as you're leaving the island) for the Niagara Scenic Parkway. Follow the signs for the Rainbow Bridge; downtown Niagara Falls, Ontario is at the far end of the bridge.

• From Buffalo-Niagara International Airport: Take NY 33 west from the airport, the first exit off of which is I-90 eastbound (signs for Niagara Falls and Albany). Exit onto I-90, then get off at Exit 50 (I-290 west), which you'll follow to the end of the highway. From there, take I-190 north (over both Grand Island Bridges, $1 toll) to the Niagara Scenic Parkway. Follow the signs for the Rainbow Bridge; downtown Niagara Falls, Ontario is at the far end of the bridge.
• From Toronto Pearson International Airport: Take Highway 427 south to the QEW towards Hamilton. Drive for about 100 km (62 mi) and then keep left to take Highway 420 east, which becomes Roberts Street. Stay straight to go onto Falls Avenue.

By bus

Coach Canada, [phone], and Greyhound, [phone], offer regular bus service to Niagara Falls from other Ontario cities.

GO Transit, [phone], the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area's regional/commuter rail and bus system operates commuter/regional bus service to/from the Burlington train station, connecting with commuter/regional trains to/from Toronto. Most buses make stops en route in Stoney Creek, as well in Grimsby and St. Catharines. The bus ride to/from Burlington station is between 80-90 minutes. The train ride from there to downtown Toronto is another 60 minutes. However, during the summer, on Fridays (or Thursday if Friday is a holiday) evenings and weekends/holidays there are express bus services that run directly to/from Burlington station. These buses take around 65 minutes to reach Niagara Falls from Burlington. A one-way standard ticket is $22.30 to/from Toronto (as of 2019). The buses have coach style seating but seating is not reserved and there are no washrooms, wi-fi services, or any on-board amenities. Buses run every 60 minutes on weekends/holidays and 60-90 minutes on weekdays.

Megabus offers discount bus service to Niagara Falls from Toronto.

The Niagara Falls bus depot is located at 4555 Erie Avenue, [phone]. It is opposite the Train Station and connects to WeGo Transport Services

Taxi service to the Falls and main tourist area from the bus depot will run $10-15, If you fancy a walk the route is simple and easy, although nearly 5 km (3 mi), and has the advantage of seeing the Falls come slowly into view.

By train

The Maple Leaf train, operated jointly by Amtrak and VIA Rail, serves Niagara Falls. The train runs daily between Toronto and New York City via Oakville, St. Catharines, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, and various smaller cities.

GO Transit offers two train services between Toronto and Niagara Falls. The most useful service for visitors is the Niagara Seasonal GO Train Service which runs on summer weekends, the Victoria Day weekend in late May and the Canadian Thankgiving weekend in early October. Less useful for visitors is the GO Transit workday commuter service running one train to Toronto in the early morning, returning in the evening to Niagara Falls.

Both the Maple Leaf and GO Transit trains can accommodate bikes.

• 🌍 Niagara Falls station, 4267 Bridge Street, ☎ [phone]. Built in 1879 in a Gothic Revival style, the station is located north of the city centre and about 4 km (2.5 mi) from the Falls. The city's main bus depot is across the street and taxi service are available. (updated Jan 2019)

Get around

The Niagara River whirlpool basin

On foot

Many of the main attractions are within walking distance depending on where you walk from, and the rest are easily accessible by transit. Some roads are steep so it may be preferable to drop elderly family members off near the Falls before parking.

During the busiest tourist season (May - October), the Niagara Parkway and Queen Victoria Park along the Canadian side of the Falls, can become very crowded and finding a "picture perfect" view of the Falls is difficult. Walking to the attractions can be slow during peak tourist season with thousands of people bustling by.

If you want to park your car and walk around the city, consider parking at the Niagara Casino (near the Hilton Hotel). It is a flat $5 every time you leave the garage; there is no limit on how long you can leave your car inside the garage.

By bus

WEGO Niagara Falls, bus system runs throughout the Niagara Parkway, Falls Avenue, Fallsview Boulevard and other tourist areas year round. There are stops at the participating points of interest including attractions, hotels, and restaurants. Prices vary although day passes are available. There is a live map of WEGO stops and buses online . WEGO passes can be purchased from Niagara Parks Info Centres, WEGO Drivers, and participating attractions and hotels. WEGO buses, especially on the Green line (which takes you to all of the attractions along the Niagara parkway) can easily fill up during peak hours and be difficult to find space on. If possible, try to catch the bus at its terminal end near the Journey Behind the Falls attraction in order to secure yourself a seat, especially if travelling to attractions such as the white water walk or butterfly conservatory.

Niagara Transit, is operated by the Niagara Transit Commission (City of Niagara Falls) and has routes covering sections of Niagara Falls not covered by the WEGO system. Tickets are available at the bus terminal or from the shuttle bus driver. Day passes are $10 for adults.

Niagara Regional Transit, is operated by the Niagara Regional Government to transport travellers between the cities of Niagara Falls, St. Catharines and Welland. Tickets are available at the bus terminal or from the shuttle bus driver. Price is $6 with transfers available to local transit for an additional fee and day passes are not available.

There are also tour services that offer the option to buy a shuttle pass, which allows you to board any of the tour buses at any stop point throughout the day.

See

Most visitors' first view of the Falls, from the Canadian side of the river, is at Queen Victoria Park along the Niagara Falls Parkway. This grand, royal garden provides the perfect vantage point for experiencing the nightly illumination of the Falls and the summer fireworks displays. The Falls are illuminated, , every evening until approximately midnight (see website for exact times) and there are Falls Fireworks shows every night in the summer months (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only in the late spring and early fall).

Niagara Parks offers a suite of Adventure Passes that include tickets to the Hornblower Niagara Cruises, a selection of other attraction admissions (depending on price point), a two-day WEGO pass, and a bunch of discounts for additional attractions. Passes range from $55 to $84, and the components do not have to all be used on the same day.

Skylon Tower

• 🌍 Hornblower Niagara Cruises, 5920 Niagara Parkway (at the bottom of Clifton Hill), ☎ +1 905-NIAGARA (6424272), e-mail: [e-mail]. New operator of Niagara Falls boat tours effective 2014. A boat tour to the foot of the falls, where visitors can better appreciate their thunder and spray. There are three types of cruises: Voyage to the Falls, Sunset Cocktail Cruise, and Falls Illumination/Fireworks Cruise. See their website for hours, as they vary. Many people want to use their digital cameras to take pictures, but they will get wet, so plan ahead. 
• 🌍 Journey Behind the Falls, 6650 Niagara Pkwy (Table Rock Centre, beside the Falls). This is an interesting attraction to consider in lieu of Hornblower Niagara Cruises (or when Hornblower Niagara Cruises isn't operating). Although popular, the lines aren't nearly as long for "Journey" as they are for Hornblower Niagara Cruises, and therefore may be a better option on crowded days, or for those travelling with small children. Ponchos are provided, as the Journey still offers participants the chance to feel the "spray" of the Falls, from portholes opening behind the Falls, as well as access to a small open area on the bank of the river, no more than 200 feet from the base of the falls. An informative guided tour that still provides some--but not all--of the thrills of the other attractions. Open year-round except 25 December. Whilst this attraction remains open during winter, often some of the viewing points are inaccessible due to snow build up. Adults (13 years and older): $12, children (6 to 12 years): $7.20, children 5 and under: free..  
• 🌍 White Water Walk, 4330 Niagara Pkwy. A 1,000-ft (305 m) boardwalk beside the rapids. Open seasonally. Adults (13 years and older): $11.95, children (6 to 12 years): $7.80, children 5 and under: free. 
• 🌍 Whirlpool Aero Car, 3850 Niagara River Pkwy (4.5 km/3 mi north of the Falls), ☎ [phone]. Cable car ride over the Niagara Whirlpool. Open March - November. Adults (13 years and older): $14.55, children (6 to 12 years): $9.45, children 5 and under: free. (updated Dec 2017)
• 🌍 Skylon Tower, 5200 Robinson St, ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Summer hours 8AM-midnight, winter 11AM-9PM. 520-ft (160 m) tower that has an observation deck. There are two restaurants with a great view of the falls. One is a revolving restaurant, the other is a buffet. There are arcade games in the base. $12.95, child: $7.55, some online discounts.  
• 🌍 Niagara Skywheel, 4946 Clifton Hill, ☎ [phone]. Ferris-wheel-like, with air-conditioned/heated pods and views of the Falls and surrounding skyline. 10-minute ride. Year-round. $9.99, child $5.99.  
• 🌍 Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, 2565 Niagara Pkwy (9 km/6 mi north of the Falls). Open daily year-round, dawn until dusk. 100 acres of 20th century themed gardens, a magnificent arboretum, as well as North America's largest butterfly conservatory. At their best in the summer.
  

  Blue Morpho butterfly at the Butterfly Conservatory
  Free admission. Parking is $5. 
• 🌍 Butterfly Conservatory, 2405 Niagara Pkwy (9 km/6 mi north of the Falls, within the Botanical Gardens). Open year-round except 25 December. Check website for times, as they vary.. Over 2,000 butterflies in an enclosed garden - great photo opportunities Prices as of March 2014: Adults (13 years and older) $13.50, children (6 to 12 years): $8.80, children 5 and under: free. Parking is $5.  
• 🌍 Bird Kingdom, 5651 River Rd, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Open daily. Sept-Jun 9:30AM-5PM, Jul-Aug 9AM-6:30PM. This tropical adventure with over 400 birds is the largest free-flying indoor aviary in the world. Adults $16.95, Seniors (55+) $14.95, Children (4-15) $11.95 (all prices plus HST), Parking $2 per hour.  
• 🌍 Floral clock, 14004 Niagara Pkwy (near the Lewiston-Queenston International Bridge). A clock made entirely of flowers. Admission and parking are free. 
• 🌍 Queenston Heights Park, 14184 Niagara Pkwy (near the Lewiston-Queenston International Bridge). This park includes the Brock and Laura Secord Monuments. It is also an end point of the Bruce Trail, which winds it way northward over 800 km (497 mi) to Tobermory.  
• 🌍 IMAX theatre and Daredevil Museum, 6170 Fallsview Blvd, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Has a 45 minute movie about the history of the Falls, filmed in 2005, that's not quite worth the price of admission ($14.50). However, the theatre also houses a daredevil exhibition with original barrels used by falls and whirlpool daredevils on display, well worth the $8.00. Some online discounts and coupons from other attractions available. $8.00. 
• 🌍 Sir Adam Beck Power Station, 14000 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ☎ [phone]. Guided tour every 15 minutes, year-round. See how the massive power of the Niagara River is harnessed and used to power the surrounding area  
• 🌍 Floral Showhouse, 7145 Niagara Pkwy (about 1km south of the Horseshoe Falls). 9:30AM-5PM. Interior garden of orchids, succulents, and other tropical plant species. Plus eight changing floral shows per year. (updated Aug 2018)
• 🌍 Dufferin Islands, Niagara Pkwy (about 2km south of the Horseshoe Falls). Dufferin Islands is a 10-acre park with several small islands connected by small bridges and footpaths. The park is a naturalized area with indigenous vegetation, fish, bird feeding stations and bird boxes. Free. (updated Aug 2018)

Do

Approaching the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side of the Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is awesome! The list is never ending: world class casinos, rides, wax museums, haunted houses, a huge midway with more skeeball and games than you can shake a stick at, restaurants, clubs, bars, and so on. Go to Niagara Falls, get a hotel near the falls and then walk down towards Clifton Hill. The air is buzzing and there are people from all over the world there.

• 🌍 Casino Niagara, 5705 Falls Ave (near Clifton Hill), ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. The original Niagara Falls casino. It is the oldest and smallest of the three Niagara Falls Casinos.  
• Clifton Hill Attractions, Clifton Hill. Check out the vast array of flashing lights, Haunted Houses, Mazes, a Fun House, Arcade. Tons of fun attractions and restaurants. Located right near the falls between the Niagara Parkway and Victoria Ave. 
  • 🌍 Ripley's Believe it or Not, 4960 Clifton Hill. (updated Aug 2018)
  • 🌍 Nightmares Fear Factory, 5631 Victoria Ave (1 block east of top of Clifton Hill), ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Haunted house attraction, famous for the number of visitors that 'chicken out'. (updated Jun 2016)
• 🌍 Fallsview Casino, 6380 Fallsview Blvd, toll-free: [phone]. A Vegas-style casino built to replace Casino Niagara. The second of three Niagara Falls Casinos and the last to be built on the Canadian side of the Niagara Gorge. 
• 🌍 Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, 5685 Falls Ave, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. Niagara's largest indoor waterpark at 125,000 square feet. The water park features 16 slides, up to six stories high, full-size wavepool and outdoor year-round pool. The Fallview Indoor Waterpark is directly connected to the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel, Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls - Fallsview Hotel and the Skyline Inn Niagara Falls.  
• Niagara Helicopters Limited, 3731 Victoria Ave, toll-free: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Over the Falls and surrounding area. 
• Get married: A wide selection of destination wedding venues (ranging from free-standing chapels to parkland to facilities within individual hotels) awaits on both sides of the Falls upon advance reservation. You'll need an officiant and two witnesses; a marriage licence must be obtained in advance from any city or town clerk's office in the province.
  • The City of Niagara Falls (4310 Queen St, [phone] ext 4283) issues marriage licences ($125, no waiting period, no medical tests) valid for 90 days anywhere in Ontario. No ceremonies are performed at Niagara City Hall.
  • Niagara Parks has information about weddings, receptions, and wedding photography near the Falls.
  • On your honeymoon? You can get an Official City of Niagara Falls Honeymoon Certificate from the Niagara Falls Tourism Office at 5400 Robinson St.
• Greg Frewin Dinner Theatre, 5781 Ellen Ave, toll-free: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Illusionist Greg Frewin presents his Las Vegas-style magic show. 
• 🌍 Marineland Theme Park, 7657 Portage Rd. Dolphin, sea lion and walrus shows. Exhibits of marine animals include killer whales, beluga whales and black bears. A variety of amusement park rides such as Sky Screamer, a three-tower ride which elevates riders high enough to see Niagara Falls a mile and a half away. The park was the subject of protests due to extensive Toronto Star coverage in 2012 where former employees documented poor conditions in which animals were held. $40/adult, $33/child (5-9), toddlers (0-4) free.  
• 🌍 The Q (Niagara Falls Downtown), Queen St (between Erie Ave and Valley Way), ☎ [phone]. Queen Street has been revitalized into the latest Niagara Arts & Culture District. Art galleries, boutiques, cafés, bistros, live theatre and festivals. 
• WildPlay Niagara Falls (aerial courses), toll-free: [phone]. This Canadian chain of aerial adventure courses has two attractions in Niagara Falls. (updated Sep 2016)
  • MistRider Zipline to the Falls, 5850 River Rd. mid-Jul - mid-Oct: Su-Th 10AM-4PM, F 10AM-7PM, Sa 8AM-7PM. The ziplines take riders on a 670-meter (2,200-foot) trip along the river gorge, with great views of all three falls. $50. (updated Sep 2016)
  • Whirlpool Adventure Course, 3351 Niagara Pkwy. A set of aerial adventure courses with obstacles and ziplines, near the Niagara Whirlpool. There are Classic (ages 7+), Extreme (ages 12+), and Kids' (ages 5-12) courses. There's also the "What's to Fear Jump" (ages 7+), a 40-foot loose-line freefall, available as a standalone activity or as a package with the courses. Classic $40, Extreme $50, Kids' $20; Jump $20 ($15 with adventure course). (updated Sep 2016)
• Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours. Apr-Oct. Niagara Glen departure point (approx. 8 km/5 mi from the Falls, People Mover Stop #9, very little parking). . The tours operating from Niagara Glen use the JetDome boat, which is enclosed and keeps you dry as the boat navigates the whitewater rapids. For the more traditional 'gets-you-soaking-wet' jet boat tour, you will need to use the Niagara-on-the-Lake departure point. 
• Winter Festival of Lights. Area around the Falls. A 5 km/3 mi route along the Niagara Parkway featuring over three million sparkling tree and ground lights, and over 120 lighting displays. Illuminations run from mid Nov to Jan 31, from 5PM to midnight. Opening festivities includes fireworks. Fireworks over the Falls every Friday night at 9PM during Nov, and Dec. The fireworks are 4 minutes long. No admission, $10 donation per car suggested. 

Also, don't forget the wine tours. Niagara is Ontario's best-known wine producing region. Its famous ice wines are processed in freezing temperatures in very early morning hours and only with "approved" grapes, producing a thick and sweet wine much like the muscats and ports, but without the afterbite.

Buy

Note: Hotels and restaurants have been adding unexplained and poorly-documented fees, some as high as 10%, to fund destination marketing programs. Acronyms on bills include DMF, DMP, DMDF, PF and TIF. The charges, which vary widely, are not mandatory and lawfully cannot be identified as a tax.. Consumers who believe they're being misled may call the Ontario government's consumer services ministry at [phone].

As of 2018, US dollars will fetch about $1.25&ndash$1.30 at banks and exchanges. Individual merchants will usually accept US dollars at a (lower) posted rate; $1.15 was common in mid-2018.

There are a great many souvenir shops in Niagara Falls, especially in the Clifton Hill area. The biggest might be the Grand View Marketplace at the foot of Clifton Hill just above the Hornblower Cruises docks. You'll find everything from the usual t-shirts and calendars to vials of Niagara Falls water.

Eat

As a major tourist destination, many restaurant chains are represented in Niagara Falls. In particular, there's a Hard Rock Cafe between Casino Niagara and the Sheraton on the Falls. Planet Hollywood closed in 2016.

Budget

• Basell's Restaurant & Tavern, 4880 Victoria Ave, ☎ [phone]. A super-cheap restaurant that may look like "a little hole in the wall" but the food is delish. Try the special: soup du jour (try the vegetable), coleslaw, potatoes or fries, tea or coffee, the special, and frozen yogurt or ice cream for the end for only about $8. Dinner prices range from $8 for a sandwich to $20-something for steak or seafood. 
• The Flying Saucer, 6768 Lundy's Ln (look for the UFO), ☎ [phone]. Daily 6AM-11PM. Diner/greasy spoon. Home of the $2.99 breakfast (two eggs, home fries and toast) served between 6AM and 10AM. Very busy on weekend mornings, but service is efficient. 
• Savoury and Sweet, 3770 Bridgewater Street L2G 6H3 (just off Niagara Scenic Rt near Marineland), ☎ [phone]. Tu-F 4PM to 9PM; Sa Su 10AM to 9PM. 28 choices of crepes, waffles, palacsinta with a varied European Main Meal Selection $10-25. Stylish and comfortable, excellent food. Reservations recommended. (updated Apr 2016)
• Tarboosh Mediterranean Grill, 5809 Victoria Ave (at the top of Clifton Hill), ☎ [phone]. 11AM-3AM. Tarboosh has a 100% Halal menu. Menu includes shawarmas, falafel, burgers, samosas, springrolls, ice cream, and freshly squeezed juices. 5 minutes away from Niagara Falls. Delivery available fresh and healthy food under $10. 

Mid-range

• Antica Pizzeria, 5785 Victoria Ave, ☎ [phone]. Thin-crust pizza made to order in wood-burning ovens. Can be busy at dinner time. 
• Carpaccio Restaurant, 6840 Lundy's Ln, ☎ [phone]. Lots of options including chicken, veal and steak entrées, grilled salmon, rack of lamb, ravioli, gnocchi, lasagna, wild mushroom risotto. Thin crust oven-baked pizzas. Soy spaghetti is available. Family friendly. Dinner mains, $10-35. 
• Maid of the Mist Restaurant, 5920 River Rd (at Clifton Hill). Great hidden cafeteria style eatery. Incredible views of the fall through the floor to ceiling glass windows. Reasonable prices for great tasting pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs. Restaurant is in the courtyard outside the Maid of the Mist gift shop. 
• Mama Mia's, 5719 Victoria Ave (top of Clifton Hill), ☎ [phone]. Italian, in case the name didn't give it away. Relatively inexpensive (for Niagara Falls) and the food is good. Spaghetti (vegetarian sauce option available), manicotti, cannelloni, homemade fettuccine, lasagne, eggplant (or chicken or veal) parmigiana, gnocchi, hamburgers. Lunch mains $8-$10, dinner mains $10-20, $22.95 gourmet dinner menu. 
• Michinoku Japanese Restaurant, 6100 Thorold Stone Road Unit #14, ☎ [phone]. Mainly sushi/sashimi. Excellent quality and generally high reviews. Can get busy around dinner time, but is outside of normal tourist areas. $15-25 per person. 
• Napoli Ristorante and Pizzeria, 5484 Ferry St (at Stanley Ave), ☎ [phone]. Homestyle Italian food made with fresh ingredients. Casual atmosphere. 
• Secret Garden Restaurant, 5827 River Rd, ☎ [phone]. Breakfast served until 11AM daily. Large outdoor patio with a view of the American Falls and the surrounding flower gardens. Varied menu includes: hamburgers, quiche Lorraine, soups, salads, pasta, fish of the day, fish and chips, steak, rack of lamb, prime rib of beef. Vegetarian and children's menus. Dinner entrées $10-30. 
• Suisha Gardens, 5701 Lewis Ave, ☎ [phone]. Tu-Su (closed M) 5PM-10PM. Very pleasant Japanese restaurant. They cook, Teppanyaki-style, at your table. It's some tasty stuff and for what you get, the price is reasonable. The building looks old and run-down from the outside but when you enter, it's like walking into a small pocket of Japan. Sushi bar. Take-out available. Reservations recommended. Teppanyaki set menus $16-$40. 
• Syndicate Restaurant, 6863 Lundy's Ln, ☎ [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. 11:30AM-11PM. A collaboration of farm, table, and brewhouse. Great little brewpub a few blocks away from the main tourist area, and a local favourite. They have a wide selection of in-house brewed and guest beers to choose from. They make an effort to use locally raised meats in their dishes. Reservations recommended. $10-25. 
• Taco N' Tequila, 5355 Ferry St (5 min walk from Clifton Hill), ☎ [phone]. Simple, yet good, Mexican fare and home of the 45 oz. margaritas. 
• Taki, 5500 Victoria Ave, ☎ [phone]. 11:30AM-9:30PM (Closed Tues Nov-Feb). "Taki" means "Falls" in Japanese. Very authentic-style Japanese restaurant. Great food, great atmosphere. Pricey, but it's worth it. Free parking behind the building. 
• Yukiguni, 5980 Fallsview Blvd, ☎ [phone]. Daily noon-11PM. "Yukiguni" means "snow country" in Japanese. Very good Japanese food. Loved by Japanese. Menu includes sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, tempura, and noodles. Mains $10-18. 

Splurge

• Buchanans Chophouse, 6022 Stanely Ave (atrium level inside the Doubletree Resort), ☎ [phone]. Daily until 9PM. Casual fine dining, regional cuisine. VQA Award of excellence wine list, live entertainment select Fridays, call for details. Steaks, chops & seafood in a Grand Lodge atmosphere. AAA/CAA approved. 
• CopaCabana Brazilian Steak House, 6671 Fallsview Blvd (at Main St), ☎ [phone]. A Brazilian BBQ restaurant, where you get all-you-can-eat servings of grilled steak, pork, chicken, lamb, sausage, etc. Outdoor patio. Samba music and dancers on Friday and Saturday nights. Very busy, and there can be a long wait for tables. $36. 
• Keg Steakhouse and Bar Overlooking Niagara Falls, 6700 Fallsview Blvd, 9F of Embassy Suites - Fallsview Hotel, ☎ [phone]. Su-Th noon-11:30PM, F Sa noon-midnight. From the ninth floor, it affords one views of Niagara Falls from virtually every table. The dining room has a warm atmosphere typically of the chain; booths with heavy Oak tables and a large stone fireplace. There is plenty of tiered seating available, allowing each guest a view of the famous waterfalls. 
• Milestones Niagara Falls Restaurant, 6755 Fallsview Blvd (inside the Marriott Gateway), ☎ [phone]. 11:30AM to 11PM. Milestones Niagara Falls Restaurant directly overlooks the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Offering select local, Canadian, and International wines at a Fallsview full service bar. Located on the second floor of the Niagara Falls Gateway on the Falls Hotel. Book a wine tasting or group event. Free parking for Milestones guests. 
• The Revolving Restaurant at Skylon Tower, 5200 Robinson St, toll-free: [phone]. Enjoy fine dining at the revolving restaurant near the top of the Skylon Tower or buffet dining at the Summit Suite. Enjoy lunch or dinner, desserts as well as fine wines with free access to the observation deck. The view is one of a kind and the service is impeccable. 
• Terrapin Grille Niagara Falls Restaurant, 6740 Fallsview Blvd (inside the Marriott Fallsview), ☎ [phone]. 6:30AM to 9PM. Fallsview dining at its peak, presented by Chef Ron Kneabone. Wine, cocktails, beer and more available on two floors overlooking Niagara Falls. The Terrapin Bar and Lobby Lounge also cater to the sports fans offering local games during your visit. Private rooms available for groups. Luxury dining with quality ingredients and professional service. Free valet parking. 
• Watermark Restaurant, 6361 Fallsview Blvd (in the Hilton Hotel), ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. Go for a drink at the martini bar during one of the fireworks shows. It offers an amazing Falls view, great for a romantic gesture or a dramatic proposal. 

Drink

The legal drinking age in Ontario is 19.

• Spicy Olive, 5026 Centre St, ☎ [phone]. Spicy Olive serves Italian food while providing live entertainment and bands in Niagara Falls. Part of the Centre Street Shuffle, a series of bars frequented by pub crawls and other group events. 

Sleep

Prices posted are for high season (May–October).

Numerous hotels offer a room with a view of the Falls; check with the hotel when booking and specify that you want a full fallsview room when you book, or you may be given a room with only a partial view. If getting the 'perfect' room is important to you, book through the hotel directly as opposed to on-line or via their world-wide reservations number.

Budget

• A1-Motel, 7895 Lundys Ln, ☎ [phone]. From $39. 
• ACBB Hostel Niagara, 5741 McGrail Ave, ☎ [phone]. Great breakfast for free everyday, Free Internet terminals. From $20. 
• HI-Niagara Falls, 4549 Cataract Ave, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. Shared and private rooms, activities organized (day at the beach, vineyard tours) and BBQ area. From $21. 
• Niagara Falls Backpackers Hostel, 4219 Huron St, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. Cozy, quiet place with friendly staff. 
• Skyline Inn Niagara Falls, 4800 Bender Hill, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. The newly renovated Skyline Inn Niagara Falls features over sized family rooms that fit up to 6 people in one room. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is connected to the hotel vis the skywalk. Features Family Movie Night, which plays every night in the main courtyard. 

Mid-range

• Comfort Inn Clifton Hill - Niagara Falls Hotel and Resort, 4960 Clifton Hill, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. In the heart of the Clifton Hill tourist area, this popular Niagara Falls hotel features 185 guest rooms, complimentary continental breakfast, large indoor pool and whirlpool, major on-site attractions and restaurants, guest parking, and free wireless internet. 
• Courtyard By Marriott Niagara Falls, 5950 Victoria Ave, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. In the centre of the Clifton Hill tourist district, Courtyard by Marriott Niagara Falls features 258 guest rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, Keg Steakhouse & Bar and more. On-site parking. 
• Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls - Fallsview Hotel, 5685 Falls Ave, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. This hotel maintains its old world Victorian style and design but provides all of its customers with new world amenities. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is directly connected to the hotel. The Crowne Plaza hotel features indoor dining options at it Fallsview Rainbowroom Restaurant. 
• The Days Inn, 3 area locations. 

• Fallsview, 6519 Stanley Ave, toll-free: [phone]. 1 block away from the Fallsview Casino, and the Falls itself. 

• Clifton Hill, 5657 Victoria Ave, toll-free: [phone]. In the heart of Niagara's Clifton Hill tourist district. The Days Inn features an indoor pool, Applebee's Grill & Bar, and Remington's of Niagara Steak & Seafood Restaurant on site. 

• Centre Street, 5046 Centre St, ☎ [phone]. Located a block and a half north of Clifton Hill. Free Wi-fi. Complimentary breakfast is not too good but inexpensive rates. Swimming pool and hot tub on premises. Very clean hotel, staff is also incredibly helpful and friendly. 

• Eastwood Tourist Lodge, 5359 River Rd, ☎ [phone]. Full breakfast. Rooms with balconies with view of Niagara Gorge, some rooms with fireplaces, free wireless internet. $79+. 
• Hampton Inn By Hilton - at the Falls, 5591 Victoria Ave, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. Newly renovated features complimentary hot and cold breakfast, internet and parking for guests. Features an indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna in the hotel atrium. 
• 🌍 Quality Inn, 5234 Ferry St, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. Near Clifton Hill; 1km from Fallsview Casino and Casino Niagara. Price includes continental breakfast, local calls, cable TV. $100+. 
• Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview, 6733 Fallsview Boulevard, toll-free: [phone]. The newly renovated Radisson Hotel & Suites Niagara Falls has rooms and suites with spectacular views of Horseshoe Falls. The hotel features many family, romantic, and vacation packages that offer big savings. The hotel has a very elegant feel that is naturally inspired by the nearby falls. From $149. 
• Ramada Hotel Niagara Falls, 6045 Stanley Ave, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. Located in the Fallsview district this hotel is situated by Niagara's finest restaurants and attractions, and offers easy access to the border and highway. 
• Redwood Bed & Breakfast, 5227 River Rd, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. Two-night minimum stay, $129-159. 
• Rodeway Inn Fallsview, 6663 Stanley Ave (Drive South on Stanley until Dunn.), ☎ [phone]. Clean and well kept hotel. Very reasonable breakfast restaurant on site ($5-10 per person for a large breakfast with coffee). Close to the falls and other tourist areas. $100. 
• Howard Johnson by the Falls (Hojo by the Falls), 5905 Victoria Ave, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Located in the Clifton Hill district. Access to Niagara Falls WEGO bus system directly outside hotel. Double, Queen and King Rooms available. Indoor and outdoor pool on-site. (updated Jun 2016)

Splurge

• Doubletree Resort Lodge & Spa Fallsview, 6039 Fallsview Blvd, ☎ [phone], toll-free: +1-800-222-TREE (8733). Five Lakes Aveda day spa (PDF). Indoor lap pool and family pool, whirlpool, fitness room, seasonal outdoor hot tub and garden sun deck. Doubletree Sweet Dreams sleep experience. Spacious guest rooms, two room suites and premium rooms with two person whirlpool tubs. Choose a view of the city, river or American Falls. 365 m (400 yd) to Fallsview Casino Resort. 
• Embassy Suites Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel, 6700 Fallsview Blvd, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. The hotel towers 42 storeys over the Brink of Niagara Falls - and is located 100 yards from the water's edge. Located on Fallsview Boulevard in the Fallsview Tourist District – beside the new Niagara Fallsview Casino, the hotel is surrounded by Niagara's finest restaurants and attractions and offers the finest in Fallsview accommodations. 
• Four Points by Sheraton Niagara Falls - Fallsview, 6455 Fallsview Blvd, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. Directly across the street from the New Fallsview Casino. This hotel features Fallsview rooms and luxurious Whirlpool rooms. Complete fitness center including indoor waterfall swimming pool. Event, meeting and conference facilities, valet parking. 
• Great Wolf Lodge, 3950 Victoria Ave, ☎ [phone], toll-free: +1-800-605-WOLF (9653). There is a People Mover stop here. Great for kids, very family-oriented with rooms that feature "kid cabins" which private a bit of privacy for the adults. Large indoor waterpark, spa, restaurant and cafe. 
• Hilton Hotel and Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview, 6361 Fallsview Blvd, ☎ [phone]. City or Fallsview rooms decorated in classic resort style. Recently opened a brand new 53-storey, 500 room all-suite tower, featuring 2 new restaurants. The hotel is in the heart of the City's entertainment district and attached to the Fallsview Casino through an adjacent walkway. 
• Lion's Head Bed & Breakfast, 5239 River Rd, ☎ [phone]. Historic Edwardian home overlooking the Niagara Gorge. Three-course gourmet breakfasts. $145-225. 
• Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel & Spa, 6740 Fallsview Blvd, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Featuring Fallsview accommodations, Fallsview dining at the Terrapin Grille Niagara Falls Restaurant and full-service spa. Located in the Fallsview Tourist district, take the Skywalk to the Fallsview Casino and other Niagara Falls attractions. 
• Marriott Niagara Falls on the Falls Hotel & Conference Centre, 6755 Fallsview Blvd, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone], fax: [phone], e-mail: [e-mail]. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Featuring Fallsview accommodations, Fallsview dining at Milestones Niagara Falls Restaurant and conference centre. Located in the Fallsview Tourist district, take the Skywalk to the Fallsview Casino and other Niagara Falls attractions. Self Parking at $29/night 
• The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls, 6546 Fallsview Blvd, toll-free: [phone]. The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls is the closest hotel to the Falls, with the best views from it's Fallsview Hotel Rooms and Suites. This 21-storey hotel has a completely un-obstructed view of the falls, and is adjacent to the Fallsview Casino Resort. 
• 🌍 Sheraton on the Falls Hotel, 5875 Falls Ave, ☎ [phone], toll-free: [phone]. The rooms at the front of the hotel offer amazing views of the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Indoor and outdoor pools. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is connected to the hotel. Some rooms with fireplace and jacuzzi. Features a 25-m (80-ft) buffet table at its Fallsview Restaurant.  

Go next

• Niagara-on-the-Lake is a pretty, historic town located about 20 minutes north of Niagara Falls. Each summer it hosts the Shaw Festival, featuring the works of George Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries. There are also a number of wineries in the area that you can visit. 5-0 Transportation, [phone], offers a shuttle service from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake. WEGO Transit also runs a shuttle service to Niagara-on-the-Lake for $10 ($5 one way) from the Floral Clock seasonally (May to October).
• A short trip over the Niagara River via the Rainbow Bridge, Niagara Falls, New York is a more low-key affair. The centrepiece of the American side is Niagara Falls State Park, a quiet patch of well-manicured greenery where you'll find the Cave of the Winds, which takes you behind the falls down a series of wooden staircases. There are also hiking trails and an observation deck.
• Hamilton (Ontario)
• Toronto
• Waterloo Region

Routes through Niagara Falls

Toronto ← St. Catharines ←	W  E	→ → Niagara Falls (New York) → Buffalo
Ends at ← Niagara-on-the-Lake ←	W  E	→ → becomes → Lewiston → Niagara Falls (New York)
Ends at ←	W  E	→ → Niagara Falls (New York)
Hamilton ← Niagara-on-the-Lake ←	W  E	→ Fort Erie → Buffalo
Toronto ← St. Catharines ←	N  S	→ END