Niagara Falls is one of our favorite places in the world, and we encourage everyone to visit. Unfortunately, many people do not realize how many amazing things there are to do at Niagara Falls, and make a quick stop to take a look, and move on. The truth is, there is enough things to do that you can have an entire Niagara Falls vacation that everyone in the family will love. Yes, you can get all of those amazing free views of Niagara, do all of the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass attractions, and still do more! We have 18 fabulous things to do in Niagara Falls, and that is just on the US side. If you pop over to Canada, there is even more!
Frankly we love this place, and we hope every can enjoy all the amazing ways to see the beautiful natural wonder. We will start with the attractions included with the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass, and then move on to the other things to do at Niagara. It is a long list! Who knew there could be so many cool things to do surrounding a waterfall, besides look at it? Then we will even give some ideas on where to eat, and where to stay in Niagara.
This article includes these 18 things to do in Niagara Falls:
With the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass
- The visitor’s center and Discovery Theater
- The Observation Tower
- The Maid of the Mist
- The Niagara Falls Scenic Trolley
- The Cave of the Winds
- The Niagara Gorge Discovery Center
- The Aquarium of Niagara
Other things to do in and around Niagara Falls
- Niagara free shuttle to Lewiston, Youngstown, and other sites.
- Whirlpool State Park
- Whirlpool Jet boat rides
- The Niagara Wine Trail
- The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
- Old Fort Niagara historic fort and museum
- Rainbow Air helicopter rides
- Lockport cave and Erie Canal cruises
- Niagara Power Collegiate Baseball
- Niagara Falls Outlet Mall
We will also give you some fabulous videos of our experiences on our Niagara Falls vacation.
But first, we gave you some history in our first article, so this time, we have to give you some:
Niagara Falls Facts and Figures
The power of Niagara Falls starts in the Midwest, at lake Superior. All four of the inland great lakes flow into the Niagara River, and on to the falls. 3,160 tons of water flow over the falls every second, with 90% going over the Horseshoe Falls. This is a crazy fact, and one that is hard to believe standing next to the force of the American Falls!
Another crazy fact is that at night, they turn down the falls. After the light show ends, the flow of the falls is cut back to 50%, and in the winter, it is cut back to 25% it’s full strength. This may provide a bit of explanation to those of you who have wondered how such a force can freeze over in the winter. The truth is that the total falls have only been known to freeze when there was an ice block upstream. But the Bridal Veil freezes occasionally, and it does all frost up. Well, it is only at 25% force when this happens
This slowing of the flow is done in mutual agreement between the United States government and the Canadian government to produce electricity. Essentially the water is siphoned off by the power authorities, rather than held back. An added benefit though, is this slows the erosion process. The rock face behind the falls already erodes as much as 6 feet per year! And, the bright green color of the river below the falls is caused by the continued erosion of the rocks, which produces fine mineral salts and “rock flour,” which tint the water.
Niagara Falls Trip Planner
If you have read our Niagara Falls Free View Itinerary, you already know where that on the American side, the falls are located in, and protected by, Niagara Falls State Park. You also know where the parking lots are located. Again, the best place to start your discover Niagara Falls experience is from parking lot 1, which costs $10 per day, and head to the Visitor’s Center. There are 3 other parking lots in the park, but all quite a distance from the Visitor’s Center. If you are staying in a downtown hotel, it is just as easy to walk, and not pay for parking.
The Visitor’s Center
The Visitor’s Center is the best starting point. It has a few displays on the history of the falls, that are interesting for those who enjoy history and geology. It is also a convenient place to get information and free park maps, and to pick up your trolley bracelet, which costs $3 per day, or comes free with the discovery pass. This is also where you find the Discovery Theater. There are also restrooms, and concessions available. We think the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass is a great deal. Of the 18 things to do in Niagara Falls, 7 of them are included.
Attractions included with the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass
Discovery Theater
This is located inside the Visitor’s Center. In simplest terms, the theater shows a film that tells the story of the first European settlers to encounter the falls, and the various daredevils who have sought to conquer the falls. The film is vivid and presents some beautiful imagery of the falls, and it is fun to hear the tales of those traversing the rapids or barreling over the falls.
The Discovery Theater film runs every 45 minutes each day, March 16 through December 31, with the last show time fluctuating with the seasons. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for children, but they are included with the Discovery Pass price. If you purchased the pass, stop and watch it. In all honesty though, if you are paying for attractions individually, there is a good chance you will feel it was overpriced.
The Observation Tower
The Observation Tower stands at the base of the Niagara gorge, alongside the river, but rises high above the rim of the gorge. It is the highest viewing location on the American side, and the place to get the best view of all 3 falls at the same time. You can also see both the rapids and river below, simultaneously.
The tower is open year round, with an access fee of $1.25 during the off-season, except during very inclement weather. From April through October, access is included with tickets for the Maid of the Mist, as it is the only way to get to the boat launch point. The top of the tower is also said to be great for birdwatching, and has been designated an Audubon Important Bird Area.
I really love the view from the tower, and enjoy relaxing at the top, taking in the views. It is a great place to get some fabulous overhead shots of the falls, and some encapsulating video footage.
The Maid of the Mist
Riding the Maid of the Mist is my absolute favorite thing to do in Niagara Falls. Yes, it is completely touristy. Yes, it can be quite crowded, and there is often a wait during the summer. But, it is sooooo much fun. If I lived in the area, I think I might go take the ride every month. Anyone who say it is not fun probably hasn’t tried it, or they interpret fun differently than most people!
Riding the Maid of the Mist starts at the Observation Tower, where you take an elevator to the bottom of the gorge, don the iconic blue rain coats, then line up for boarding. The boat departs from a relatively quiet spot on the Niagara River, near the Rainbow Bridge, and makes its way toward the Horseshoe Falls, making a circle in the Horseshoe, and returning close to the American Falls. Your Niagara Falls vacation will not be complete without riding the Maid of the Mist.
- For the best views, ride near the nose of the boat, on the back side!
- Be prepared to get wet! That raincoat makes a great souvenir, but it won’t keep you dry in the nose.
- If you struggle with motion sickness, this might not be your thing, because there is a lot of churning around.
- The Maid of the Mist is accessible, so everyone can enjoy!
I tried to get some close up shots. I really did. But at that proximity it was all I could do to hold on to the camera and stay standing! There is rocking and churning, strong winds from the force of the flow, and waterfall rain. When I was finally stable enough to attempt photos, the lens was so drenched, all I got was some big water drops. Take my word though, it is a great ride!
The Maid of the Mist is seasonal, for obvious reasons, running from late April through early November. Hours of operation graduate as well, running as late as 8:00 during the mid-summer months. Current ticket prices are $19.25 for adults, and $11.20 for children, but the ride is also included in the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass.
The Niagara Falls Scenic Trolley
The falls trolley is an ideal way to get around the park, and there is a stop just outside the Maid of the Mist exit. Trolleys run about every 20 minutes, making the full circuit of the park and all attractions. The driver also gives a bit of information along the route, so you can learn some interesting facts about the park. Ticket holders receive a bracelet for easy hop on and hop off access, at every stop. There is typically an enclosed car, for a bit of climate control, and an open air car.
The stop at Prospect Point, near the Maid of the Mist, can be quite busy in summer, so be prepared to wait. Many of the other stops will have no lines at all. These stops include all of the options of the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass that we are featuring in this article, as well as all of the free viewing locations that we featured in our free Views Itinerary.
The Niagara Falls Scenic Trolley starts operating in early April, and runs through late November. Hours extend as daylight extends, so in April it only runs until 5:00 p.m. and in the mid summer, it runs as late as 11:30 p.m. on weekend nights. Tickets are $3 a day for adults and $2 for children, and the trolley is included with the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass.
The Cave of the Winds
The Cave of the Winds is a different way to get up close to the falls, from the bottom rather than the top. The Cave experience begins on Goat Island, with a new exhibit called The World Changed Here. This exhibit outlines the history of using the power of Niagara to make electricity, and Nikola Tesla’s design to use alternating current to transfer the electricity over long distances. I fully embrace my nerdiness, and will tell you that I love this kind of stuff, and I enjoyed the exhibit.
After that, there is a short film about the history of tourism and the protection of the park, then you board the elevator near the bottom of the gorge, and you traverse a long tunnel. Once again, you are outfitted with rain gear, this time in bright yellow.
Once you are prepared, you make your way out onto a series of wooden walkways. We were allowed to make our way around the various walkways at our leisure and spend as much time as we wanted.
An interesting fact is that these walkways have to be removed each year before winter, and rebuilt each spring. Another interesting fact is that Great Lakes Water is so cold, and the ground below the falls get very little direct sunshine early in the year. So, snow remains on the ground until a surprisingly late date. The snow in this photo was present on Mother’s Day week!
How far you can progress on the walkways varies by the time of year, and how much of the construction has been completed. The Hurricane Deck, which is literally right next to the Bridal Veil Falls, (in fact almost under it,) can only be accessed in full summer season. We visited in early May, and only half of the decks were completed. Nonetheless, there were places where it looked like the falls were coming directly towards us. I didn’t get drenched like I was on the Maid of the Mist, but I was drizzled up pretty well.
The Cave of the Winds is open from mid-April through late November, with variable access depending through the season. Prices accommodate the level of access, starting at $12 for adults and $9 for children in early spring and late fall, and going to $19 for adults and $16 for children in summer. Tickets are time specific and must be bought in the park. They are also included in the Discovery Pass.
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- Be aware that there are gulls all around the wooden walkways, lots and lots of gulls. If you have any type of bird related allergies, this could be an issue.
- If you plan to get close enough to get a good view, plan to get wet again!
- The initial part of the walkways are accessible, but the close up sections require the use of stairways.
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The Niagara Gorge Discovery Center
Located at the far opposite end of Niagara Falls State Park, the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center takes a slightly different look at the falls and the gorge, highlighting the natural history and geology of the area. There are a number of hands on and interactive displays to learn about the natural forces at play. This is definitely one of the quieter things to do in Niagara Falls, but fascinating for rock lovers, or those interested in earth science.
The Discovery Center is also where to get access to the Schoellkopf Power Station ruins. The station was the largest hydroelectricity station in the world at the time it was built, in 1924. The ruins remain at the base of the gorge and are accessible by a free seasonal elevator located near the Discovery Center.
This is also the starting location for some of the amazing Niagara Gorge hiking trails. Trails are of varying levels and distances. Some travel along the top of the gorge, and some make their way to the bottom, along the rapids. They are one of the best ways to get some fresh air and vigorous exercise on your Niagara Falls vacation. Even though the river seems relatively peaceful near the location of the Discovery Center, its pace increases, and it soon turns to rapids again, some moving even faster than those before the falls!
The Niagara Gorge Discovery Center is open from early May through mid-October, and costs $3 for entrance to the exhibits. Entrance is also included with the Discovery Pass. The elevator to the Schoellkopf ruins is free, as are all of the hiking trails.
- Hiking trails can be a bit rugged, and slippery in wet weather. Solid hiking shoes with good traction are required.
- Do not attempt to get into the water, under any circumstances.
The Aquarium of Niagara
The Aquarium of Niagara is actually located outside of the park, but the easiest way to get there is by crossing the ramp overpass behind the Discovery Center. The aquarium has a new Humboldt penguin display, California sea lions, and a number of tanks with various marine life species. The sea lions can be viewed from tank level, and from above. Feedings and performances are scheduled at various times throughout the day.
So. maybe I am spoiled as an Illinois girl, having the Shedd Aquarium as my home aquarium. I realize that have very high expectations of places to experience sea life. I have visited aquariums in several locations around the world, and seldom am I satisfied. With that said, again, if you bought the Discovery Pass, visit the aquarium. But the truth is that I cannot recommend it as an individual activity. We spent about an hour and 15 minutes, and had seen all there was to see.
The Aquarium of Niagara is open year round from 9 to 5, with extended hours between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Tickets are $14.95 for adults and $10.85 for children. They are also included with the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass.
Is that enough things to do yet? Well, that was only half of it. A Niagara Falls Trip Planner would be incomplete without stepping beyond the Discovery Pass attractions!
Other things to do in Niagara Falls
Niagara Free Shuttle
There are a number of other things to do in the Niagara Falls area, some associated with the falls, and others that are not. The area has a long history, from native Americans, to French, British and Early American significance. This history is embraced in the nearby towns of Lewiston and Youngstown. The area also has a huge history in the science of electricity, which is showcased at the Niagara Power Authority.
During the summer, a free shuttle service is offered from the Niagara Falls State Park, which goes between several of the attractions we recommend below, a few other stops for art museums and shopping others, as well as the historic downtown areas of Lewiston and Youngstown, and the Niagara Power Authority Exhibit Hall.
Whirlpool Rapids State Park
Whirlpool Rapids State Park is a stop on the Niagara Falls Shuttle, and it features overlooks onto the famous Niagara Gorge whirlpool, as well as hiking trails at the top and bottom of the gorge. The whirlpool is pretty impressive to look down on, or hike next to.
Whirlpool Jet
A very exciting way to experience the Whirlpool Rapids is on a jet boat ride into the whirlpool. It is said to be even more fun, and more intense, than the Maid of the Mist. Rides depart from the nearby town of Lewiston, and are offered by Whirlpool Jet, and Niagara Jet.
The Niagara Wine Trail
The Niagara Wine Trail includes more than 20 wineries in the surrounding areas, many having live entertainment and events on the weekend. Driving the whole trail can take an entire weekend, but wine lovers should make a point at stopping by a couple of the wineries to sample the local fare. You can also purchase a Vino Passport for $40, which gets a free tasting and discounts at nearly every winery on the trail. This is definitely a way to add a more adult element to your Niagara Falls vacation!
Seneca Casino
Another adult element of a Niagara vacation can be found at the Seneca Casino. Owned by the Seneca Nation, one of the predominant tribes of the area prior to western settlements, profits help support the tribe. The casino features and abundance of slots, and some table games, as well as numerous restaurants. We stopped in on a couple of evenings, although we were not lucky.
The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
A more sobering, but important attraction in Niagara Falls, the Underground Railroad Heritage Center tells the real life story of Black Americans who sought their freedom. Niagara was a key location for many who sought the refuge of Canada, as the Great Lakes restricted the number of potential crossing points. It was also a haven for many free blacks who found employment there, often in positions where they could help others making their way to freedom.
The center is located at the Niagara Falls train station, with a recreation of the Cataract Hotel, which was a stopping point for many along their way, and across from the foundations of the freedom bridge. This is the very same bridge that many used to escape. There were also steps to the bottom of the gorge, as at times the bridge was blockaded, and the only way across was by boat, in the rapids.
We visited the Heritage Center during its opening week, and found it both educational and moving. We believe it is a key place stop for visitors to Niagara, and essential to understanding the history of the area, and the suffering of early Black Americans.
Old Fort Niagara
Pioneer history lovers will enjoy adding Old Fort Niagara to their Niagara Falls vacation. It is located to the north of Niagara Falls, near Youngstown, where the Niagara River empties in Lake Ontario. The Fort includes the French Castle, one of the oldest European buildings in North America, as well as the outposts and defensive mechanisms. The location was once key, as prior to the construction of the Erie Canal, access to the Great Lakes could be controlled from this location.
The fort has been owned French troops, British forces, and eventually by American patriots, and 3 flags now fly in the courtyard. The fort saw battle on several occasions, and played a significant role in the War of 1812. Later it was used as a housing and training facility for soldiers in both World Wars. There is an onsite museum that tells the history, and the entire fort can be explored one’s own pace. We visited the fort and found it an interesting and educational experience, another favorite thing to do in Niagara.
Still More Ways to Experience Niagara Falls
If you still want more water activities, there are a few different choices. A helicopter ride over the falls could be amazing. We have not tried this at Niagara, but we know that our ride over the Grand Canyon was epic. Flights are offered by Rainbow Air.
A different type of water experience can be had with a cruise through the Lockport Cave and the Erie Canal. The Canal was once a critical component of commerce in the area, and the history alone makes it worth some exploration. Cruises are offered by Lockport Locks.
If you are a baseball lover, or want to experience America’s national pastime, the Niagara Falls Power is a member of the New York Collegiate Baseball League. The team plays at a field in Hyde Park, right in the city. Visitors who have the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass can get free admission to a home game!
Eating in Niagara Falls
No Niagara Falls trip planner could be complete without some places to eat. Truth is, there are not a lot of gourmet type experiences to be had in Niagara Falls. There is one exception, and this is the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute. If you want an upscale meal, Savor, hosted by the Culinary Institute, is the place to go, right on Old Falls Street.
Our favorite meal in town was at the Red Coach Inn. We enjoyed the English manor home atmosphere, and the patio dining area, with a view of the rapids. The food was good, and filling, and we accompanied it with delicious blackberry mojitos.
There are a number of chain restaurant choices. Yes, that is normally not what we would try or recommend. However, we were on foot our entire visit, and they were all within walking distance. We visited Rainforest Cafe, which has a jungle like interior with life-size animal statues that occasionally spring to life. The food was okay and the atmosphere is fun.
We also tried Hard Rock Cafe, which is directly across the street from the park and the Rainbow Bridge. The food was good and I even ordered dessert. We also had some strong fruity cocktails which came with the souvenir glasses. Regardless of what you think of chains, the atmosphere in Hard Rock is always cool, and I made my way to the back room to check out the memorabilia from some of my favorites, Bono, Prince, and Tom Petty.
There are a number of good Indian restaurants in town. For street food, coming right out of the park try the Kathi Roll cart. For a bit more upscale, try Mela Niagara, on 1st Street. For good Italian, the Como is a city classic. It is located a bit out of the tourist mainstream at PIne and 22nd Street.
The Seneca Niagara Casino has a number of restaurants inside like any casino. We did try out the buffet. Perhaps we should have sampled some of the other, more upscale restaurants inside. So I will only say the buffet is okay, but do not go in expecting a Vegas style casino buffet. It matches in quantity and variety, but not in taste.
Sleeping in Niagara Falls
There are dozens of hotels in Niagara Falls and the surrounding areas, many within walking distance of the park. We highly recommend The Giacomo, where we stayed for 4 days. The Giacomo is a charming boutique hotel, located in the tallest building in town, which features a subdued art deco style. We loved the Giacomo so much that we wrote a full review, and included some other options of where to stay in Niagara for those with different travel needs than ours. ! In the meantime, you can make a reservation right here through our Choice Hotels link.
You can’t go wrong at Niagara Falls!
If you try out all of our ways to experience Niagara Falls, including all of the free spots in our Free Views Itinerary, the attractions available with the Niagara Falls Discovery Pass, and the other awesome attractions, there is more than enough things to do in Niagara Falls to spend an entire Niagara Falls vacation. Heck, we haven’t even talked about crossing the border and seeing the Canadian side. There is an entire set of different attractions available on the other side. We prefer the more natural outdoor feeling on the American side, and the less kitschy attractions, but, if you do both, you could fill a whole week. We hope our Niagara Falls trip planner has given you the information you need to start planning now!
We hope you will plan your Niagara Falls vacation soon. Pin this Niagara Falls trip planner for later!
