An American icon and living legacy, Niagara Falls was established way back in 1885. A collective name for the three waterfalls straddling the U.S. and Canadian border, this natural wonder is a focal point in it’s on right, but just in case your kids get bored easily, there are plenty of other kid-friendly attractions in the area. Don’t miss the aquarium, a trolley, and a living history lesson that will make for a truly memorable family vacation soaking in the culture and spray.
What to do at Niagara Falls:
Cave of the Winds Tour
If you don’t mind getting a little (ok, a lot) wet, the Cave of the
Winds is the closest you can get to the Falls. Starting with an elevator ride
down 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge, you’ll be spit out onto a series of wooden
walkways along the river as you make your way to the Hurricane Deck, just a few
feet from the thunderous roar. Rushing Bridal Veil Falls creates a misty,
dramatic tropical environment that’ll make you feel like you’re right in the
eye of the storm.
Maid of the Mist
A popular boat excursion that’s been a favorite attraction for over 150 years,
your ride will start at the Observation Tower before boarding the double decker
ferry. Once onboard, you’ll traverse through Horseshoe Falls, going right into
the heart of the rushing whitewater.
Hike or Bike the Niagara Gorge
With challenging stairs to climb and scrambles to follow,
there are a few different trail options for hikers and bikers ranging from easy
one-hour scenic overlooks to three-hour boulder-hopping adventures. The Great
Gorge Overlook Trail is the easiest with one or two hour routes, while Devil’s
Hole is your best bet for a moderate 2.5-hour trip. Whirlpool Rapids is the
most technical and takes about 3-hours round-trip.
See the Fireworks and Lights Shows
Fireworks over the falls are a magical experience every
Friday and Saturday night May through August. But if you can’t make it during
summer, don’t despair. There are nightly illuminations and dramatic light shows
that make the roaring waters look even more impressive under the veil of
darkness.