One of the perks living in Toronto, is how close Niagara Falls is in proximity. In roughly 1.5-2 hours (depending on traffic), you’re whisked away to the natural wonder that is Niagara Falls. The stunning view of the Falls is so awe aspiring, you won’t be able to get enough of its magnificence.
When I gave some thought as to what makes this destination special, I realized that I’ve created so many memories over the years, celebrated birthdays, anniversary trips, and last minute get-aways. Although the proximity is always a bonus, Niagara Falls offers lots of fun activities built for any occasion.
There’s a reason why this destination welcomes millions of visitors every year, and as one of the millions of visitors, here are some reasons why I keep going back.
Take in the Falls
The beauty of the Falls and water flow intensity is pure magic, an image that seriously needs to be experienced by all. The force of water rumbling in your view, will leave you speechless – yes, it is that dramatic!
Fun fact, you can experience the Falls on either the Canadian Horseshoe Falls side in Ontario, or the American Falls side in upstate New York, both beautiful in their own way. The Canadian Falls offers more of a breathtaking panoramic view, while the American Falls feels like you’re able to get incredibly close. In addition, Bridal Veil Falls makes up the third Waterfall on the American side, although the smallest, its still worth exploring.
If you’d like to elevate your experience, then Maid of the Mist boat tours may be your thing, it’s a fun way to literally get inside the Falls, and practically shower in mist, so bring your shower cap, it’s definitely an adventure!
There’s Lots of Wine!
With over 50 wineries in the Niagara region, (including Niagara-on-the-Lake), whether you sign up for a wine tour, or go the independent route, there are so many fantastic and delicious wineries to visit, there is something for everyone!
Ontario is renowned for ice wine, I enjoyed attending the Ice Wine Festival in Niagara in the past, a fun and yummy winter escape, which I would recommend, especially if you want to learn more about ice wine.
You don’t need to be a sommelier to indulge in a wine infused experience, but you may feel like an expert after you hit a few wineries. Exploring all grapes that tickle your senses is the way to go, that’s my advice anyway, so bring on the merlot, pinot noir and chardonnay!
Some great wineries to visit:
- Château des Charmes – 1025 York Rd, St. Davids, ON L0S 1P0
- Caroline Cellars – 1010 Line 2 Rd #358, Virgil, ON L0S 1T0
- Jackson Triggs Estate Winery – 2145 Niagara Stone Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
- Reif Estate Winery – 15608 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
- Peller Estates – 290 John St E, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Shopping Anyone?
Another great reason to visit Niagara Falls is for the shopping. The outdoor style Niagara shopping outlet is a nice change from a standard indoor mall and has lots of options to choose from. Although shopping isn’t my favourite thing, even the most critical at heart will easily find what they’re looking for. With over 100 brands, you can easily browse for a few hours – why not add this to your itinerary, it’s a bargain!
Where: 300 Taylor Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Explore Clifton Hill
While Las Vegas has its main strip, Niagara Falls has Clifton Hill, a fun street located close to the Horseshoe Falls, filled with many attractions, like the Niagara Skywheel and Movieland Wax Museum.
Another equally important perk of Clifton Hill, are the many tasty restaurants on hand, whether it’s fast food, or a sit-down restaurant, there are lots of options to choose from. This area is incredibly vibrant, with lots of people and so much great energy buzzing, makes it easy to have some fun! In short, Clifton Hills is a must during your visit.
Tip: If you plan to hit a few attractions, there is a “Clifton Hill FunPass” you can purchase, which bundles an activity packed day: https://www.cliftonhill.com/fun-pass
Entertainment and Casinos
The ringing of slot machines, bright lights, and excitement of the unknown, its no wonder casinos can be an enticing and glitzy option when exploring Niagara.
The two main casino’s, Fallsview Casino located by Horseshoe Falls, and Casino Niagara by Clifton Hill, are fun choices if you’re looking to gamble. Although both casinos have their charm, I’m a fan of Fallsview due to the resort appeal, its somewhat of a one-stop-shop with spas, restaurants, and even multiple theatres on the resort. My favourite part about Casino Niagara is its retro vibe, it feels like an old-school casino, so that alone is worth popping in.
We all know “the house always wins” in gambling, or at least mostly, so if gambling isn’t your thing, Fallsview Avalon Theatre and OLG Stage have shows playing throughout the year, I had the opportunity to see living legend Patti Labelle on the OLG Stage, and it was awesome – so many entertainers pass through Niagara Falls, so the casino’s events calendar is worth looking up.
No matter the season, a short trip to Niagara Falls is always a good idea, the perfect weekend getaway where you get to marvel at a natural wonder, something we all probably need more of in our lives.
