HI:
We'll be visting Canada in appox a month and were wondering what the locals suggest we do (my Dh and I). We have been to falls before but it's been 4 years. We are planning on getting Great Gorge adventure pass and probably the midway pass. The NOL isn't our thing as we don't drink wine.
We go to Niagara Falls every year. It's my husband and children's favourite place to holiday in Ontario.
So here's our list in no particular order!
1. Skylon Tower - very cool way to see the Falls and Niagara - it's a little pricey but look for coupon books
2. Dufferin Islands - this is just about a 5 minute drive from the Falls. If you are standing in front of the falls, drive right and it's on the right hand side. Beautiful spot for picnics, feeding ducks, trails, etc. Clean washrooms! And it's free to go into.
3. The Aviary - this is a huge old hotel turned into a rainforest. A really neat opportunity to see up close exotic and rare birds. There's a big waterfall inside as well. It's very cool. They did have family passes that allowed you to go in and out all day.
4. The Butterfly Conservatory - lots of fun!
5. Maid of the Mist - I havne't been on this but my husband and daughter have. They said it was the coolest, most exhilerating experience!
6. Journey Behind the Falls - tunnels below and behind the falls mean you get up close - close enough to stick your hands in to the water. If you are claustrophobic, this is not the thing for you. I am just slightly claustrophobic and couldn't wait to get out. It is incredible, but for me, I was really kind of weird about it. lol
7. The Floral Clock/Lilac Garden - not sure what time you are going, but if you are there in late May, early June this is a must see if you are a lilac lover. Hundreds of lilac trees in full bloom. Ahhh... it smells heavenly!
8. The Great Canadian Midway - this is a giant arcade and my kids adore it. It's very loud, very busy and perfect for kids. lol
9. The Motorcyle Museum - This was relatively new when I was last there. They have lots of vintage bikes and memorabilia. I found it interesting.
10. The New Casino - You don't have to be a gambler to admire the beauty of this building. Incredible architecture!
11. Giant Ferris Wheel - this is new. I haven't been on it but it was just built last year. Very cool. It's on Clifton Hill.
12. Fireworks at the Falls - not sure what nights they do these now but they are spectacular! And it's free too.
13. The Hershey Store - that's a must stop for a treat!
14. The Secret Garden - it's right in front of the falls. There's a restaurant, a beautiful garden and sitting area, gift shop (with clean bathrooms!).
There are Niagara Parks passes you can purchase for a one time price and that gets you into all of the Niagara Parks attractions (gorge, behind the falls, etc.). There is also a bus system for that as well.
Parking is EXPENSIVE. You will do a LOT of walking so wear comfortable shoes.
Most of the museums on Clifton Hill are crappy. lol The Marvel Comic Book amusement arcade is really kind of junky the last time we were there but it has some neat photo ops.
We like to eat at Boston Pizza on Clifton Hill. Reasonably priced. Also at a family restaurant that I *think* is called The Pioneer. Nothing fancy, but good food for a good price. We've eaten at the Flying Saucer restaurant. Highly overrated unless you like really greasy diner food in a loud environment.
Pick up the coupon books. They are everywhere. Be wary of where you park - we always park in official parking lots - although you can find cheaper parking at the back of some restaurants and in lots. Try to get a hotel near Clifton Hill if you can, you'll do less walking.
My last trip there I was kind of disappointed. It's really becoming like Vegas. Lots of young people there to party - and that's fine. But when you want a family trip, it gets disruptive when they are in the halls of the hotel at 3am hollering and drunk.
The best tip I can give you is to just enjoy the scenery and relax. The huge park and gardens in front of the Falls just begs for you to kick off your shoes, lay on the grass and relax. The gardens and little ponds and fountains are stunning. People watch and count license plates! You'll be amazed at where people are from.
