Must-Visit Attractions in Niagara Falls

Of course, seeing Niagara Falls up close is a must—but how you experience it can be what makes it unique. Ride into the mist aboard a Niagara City Cruises boat tour, or take things up a level—literally—with a journey behind the falls or a glass elevator view from Skylon Tower.

But don’t stop there.

For something unexpected, explore the Floral Showhouse, a quiet tropical oasis just minutes from the falls. Then stroll the Dufferin Islands, a peaceful nature zone tucked away from the crowds.

Families will love the Bird Kingdom, one of the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviaries, and the quirky Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum or Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks on Clifton Hill.

Looking for history? Tour the restored Laura Secord Homestead, or head to Old Fort Erie, where live reenactments and musket demos bring the War of 1812 to life.

➡️ Find more in ourNiagara Region Attractions directory.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature in Niagara Falls

There’s more to this destination than just getting soaked at the falls. If you love the outdoors, Niagara Falls delivers unique adventures for every season.

Hike or cycle along the Niagara River Recreation Trail, which stretches 53 km from Fort Erie to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Stop at lookouts like Queenston Heights or Whirlpool Rapids, where you’ll find dramatic views, historic monuments, and picnic spots.

Try something truly one-of-a-kind with a zipline to the falls experience or walk the WildPlay Whirlpool Adventure Course, a high ropes park with views like no other.

Nature lovers can stroll through the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, or visit the Butterfly Conservatory, home to over 2,000 free-flying butterflies. These peaceful spots offer a perfect contrast to the high-energy pace of Clifton Hill.

In winter, go ice skating at Wayne Gretzky Estates, take in the glittering Winter Festival of Lights, or enjoy snowshoeing through the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve.

➡️ Plan your outdoor experience in our Outdoor Adventures category page.

Best Indoor Activities and Entertainment in Niagara Falls

When the weather isn’t ideal—or you’re simply looking for something different—Niagara Falls offers some unique indoor entertainment options that go beyond the usual.

Start at Greg Frewin Theatre, where Las Vegas-style magic shows meet big-production flair. Looking for relaxation? Visit Christienne Fallsview Spa, one of the only spas in the world with direct views of the Horseshoe Falls.

Families can head indoors to Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, where waterslides, a wave pool, and splash zones make it a great year-round attraction. For interactive learning, visit the Niagara Falls History Museum, or head underground for a tour of the Niagara Parks Power Station, where you can explore hidden tunnels and restored equipment used to harness hydroelectric power.

Gamers and nightlife seekers can enjoy Casino Niagara or Fallsview Casino Resort, which offer live shows, dining, and gaming under one roof.

➡️ Browse more ideas in our Rainy Day Fun listings.

Food, Drinks, and Local Experiences in Niagara Falls

Niagara is a feast for the senses—especially your taste buds. From winery tours to riverside patios and creative food experiences, the culinary scene here is one of Ontario’s best.

Start your food journey at Niagara-on-the-Lake, just a short drive from the falls, where you’ll find boutique wineries like Peller Estates, Ravine Vineyard, and Two Sisters Vineyards, many offering tasting experiences, vineyard picnics, and chef-led dinners.

Back in Niagara Falls, enjoy dinner with a view at Skylon Tower Revolving Dining Room, or sip cocktails while overlooking the falls at Table Rock House Restaurant. For a casual bite, explore local gems like Paris Crêpes Café, Tide & Vine Oyster House, or food trucks and diners just off the tourist strip.

Want something truly unique? Try an interactive chocolate-making workshop at the Niagara Chocolate FX factory, or hop on a craft brewery and cider tour in Niagara’s rapidly growing scene.

Seasonal festivals like Niagara Icewine Festival and Niagara Food & Wine Expo offer great ways to taste your way through the region.

Plan Your Visit: Unique Things to Do in Niagara Falls

From behind-the-scenes waterfall views to botanical escapes, butterfly gardens, wine country adventures, and culinary surprises—there’s no shortage of unique things to do in Niagara Falls. Whether you're visiting for the first time or the fiftieth, this destination continues to surprise and inspire.

Let Summer Fun Guide help you plan your Niagara getaway with seasonal ideas, top listings, and hidden gems you won’t find on every tourist map.

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