The mighty and ruthless Niagara Falls brings in crowds from all over the world. From the slow traveller to those adventurous souls, this city has something for everyone. Here you will read about thrilling ways to experience the action-packed city.
Noteworthy Fact
Depending on who you speak to, for them the falls may be classified as one of the ‘7 natural wonders of the world’. However, considering there is no real official list, this has been debunked. Although, nice to think that Canada and its neighbouring country have something so remarkable to warrant such a rumour.
Clifton Hill
Obviously, this is where all the cool kids hang out with an array of exciting activities to keep kids of all ages and adults well entertained. Not only are there a variety of eateries down the stripe, but also attractions too. One could walk into the Movieland Wax Museum or a few haunted houses and get taken to a different era or scared beyond words. Alternatively, you could hit the Niagara Speedway and zip around in a go-kart or soar 175ft-high on the Niagara Skywheel. Indeed, the hill will keep your senses heightened and eager to keep you coming back for more.
High Up Above the Mighty Niagara Falls
Remember when Aladdin took Jasmine on a magical carpet ride, soaring above the clouds and looking down at the marvellous world? Yeah, this is the closest we will get to that feeling.
Hop on a Helicopter ride and have that same fairytale love affair, high in the sky. When the brave take flight above the cascading waterfalls and hear the roar of the rushing rapids, it’ll melt the soul. With awe-inspiring views that will leave even the linguist tongue-tied.
Alternative Attraction
Another way to see the breathtaking landscapes from a high vantage point without launching into the sky is via the Skylon Tower Observation Deck. Take in a 360° panoramic view of Niagara Falls and its surroundings. Begin with a 52-second, glass-enclosed, external elevator ride to the top displaying astounding views from both indoor and outdoor observation decks.
Dart Across the Niagara Falls
If by land or sky doesn’t tickle your fancy, why not zipline across the vigorous falls? Another great way to get the heart pumping and feed that inner adrenaline junkie. Now, I have never ziplined across the falls, but I have zipped across a large lake and the gust of wind in your hair is exhilarating. Evidently, ticketholders will ascend 67-meters high above the Niagara River Gorge, gliding 670 meters past the American Falls to the base of the mighty Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
Challenge Your Body with a Wicked View
High above the famous Whirlpool and Niagara River gorge, is the venturesome Whirlpool Adventure Ropes Course. An activity course that will have you ziplining from post to post, balancing high above on a skinny wooden plank, climbing and swinging around like a monkey. The obstacle course is self-timed, but guests should slot out 3-hours of their time to tackle their adventure.
Early Morning Bliss
Obviously, I had to mention Niagara Falls during golden hour. It is never easy peeling yourself out of bed early, but it is 100% worth it at the falls. Nearest to the falls is the best view because the further you get the mist will evidently obstruct the view of the waterfalls. About 30-minutes before sunrise, the cloud of mist will turn into a pastel marshmallow and will continue to change unit the sun presents itself. Across the iron fence and beyond mist is where your early morning bliss will be.
Side Note: There are many parking lots along Niagara Parkway and just past the bus terminal, police station and power station there are lots with a pay meter. I found these to be the most ideal for early in the morning. It’s approximately a 15-minute walk to your destination so factor that into your sunrise adventure.
From Down Below
Let’s get a little WET! The city of Niagara Falls has it all, we’ve briefly talked about its alluring attractions at Clifton Hill, but we didn’t mention the Maid of the Mist. One of those boat rides you will not want to miss. Niagara City Cruises welcomes guests to climb aboard the 700-passenger catamaran, taking them as close as safely possible to the marvel. Provided with your ticket is a poncho to keep you as dry as possible, but guaranteed you’ll feel a little mist. Keep your electronics safe with this waterproof phone case or something similar to it.
Side Note: Adventurers could take it a step further by booking a private function on the 150-passenger jet-boat called the Niagara Guardian.
Did you know?
Over 110-years ago the Niagara River froze completely. Creating a thick sheet of ice bridging American and Canadian waters. As a result of its density, people were able to walk along the river and in some incidents camp overnight. On February 4, 1912, 35 people were on their excursion when suddenly the ice broke beneath them. Unfortunately, 3 people were unable to make their way across the river in time eventually, being the cause of their demise. Read all the details of The Ice Bridge Disaster
Obviously, this is the reason why we are unable to participate in such events in our current winters. I don’t even think I have ever seen it frozen over, crazy to think about that it was solid enough to walk on
Journey Behind the Falls
Another, absolutely adventurous way to see and HEAR the intense roar of Niagara Falls. Formerly known as the ”Scenic Tunnels” until the 1990s and one of the oldest excursions will still offer a thrill. A self-guided tour will take you down two tunnels, the Cataract Portal and the Great Falls Portal, offering different viewpoints as well as information spinnets along the way.
Noteworthy Information
Pick up a Niagara Falls Wonder Pass for $25 and you’ll have access to three elaborate attractions. These include the Journey Behind the Falls, the Butterfly Conservatory, the Fury of the Falls. It ends up costing you less for more attractions – thank me later
Jet across the Niagara River
Last but not least, the 45-minute Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour! An exhilarating ride taking you through the Class 5 rapids of Niagara River and through the Devil’s Hole. The tour will include narration between thrilling experiences, safety equipment and orientation. Riders will likely be SOAKED by the end of their tour, therefore pick a balmy day for your extraordinary boat ride.
Additional Information
Surprisingly, the first time I hiked the Niagara Whirlpool Trail, was the first time I spotted the Whirlpool Jet Tour. An enthusiastic speaker could be heard from the boat off the shoreline and all the joyful squeals to go with it. Now, I realize the section I was hiking that day was the site the boat did an energetic, 360-degree spin in the water. Both the trail and the tour offer mind-blowing views as well as an awe-struck feeling.
In Conclusion
These 7 ways are not the only way to experience the Canadian side of Niagara Falls however, in my opinion, are the most adventurous. A lot of tourists enjoy the slow travel excursions like touring the local wineries, wandering the Butterfly Conservatory, and the 99-acres Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. What’s your favourite Niagara Falls attraction? Do you have a suggestion to add to the list? Leave it in the comments below.