READY TO BOOK THE BEST NIAGARA FALLS CANADA TOURS?
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You’re in the right place, friend!! In this article I’m going to tell you about the best tours in Niagara Falls Canada. At the end, we will also quickly run down a list of other fun things to do on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls so you can make the most of your trip.
Don’t have time to read the all of the tours listed here?? That’s okay, I get it!!! The best tour in Niagara Falls Canada is ‘Best of Niagara Falls Tour’ – and you can book it here!
But if you do have time to read the whole article, know that Niagara Falls is a magnificent wonder that deserves a spot on your bucket list.
Make sure you plan ahead – there are so many tours out there where you can do some things on the Canadian side and others on the American side. If you choose to go this route, remember to bring your passport!! Both the US and Canada require a valid passport to enter and lines can be long to go through customs, especially during peak season.
What is Niagara Falls, Anyway?
Let me tell you what, and where, Niagara Falls is before I tell you why you should go and which tours you should take.
Niagara Falls is a massive set of three waterfalls that form from the waters of the Niagara River. The falls, and the Niagara Gorge to which they spill into, span the border of the US and Canada. The city on each side of the border is named, yep, you guessed it! Niagara Falls, too.
There are three waterfalls total: two on the American side and one on the Canadian side.
The American falls are the self-titled American Falls (the bigger of the two) and Bridal Veil Falls which is the small waterfall to the right (if you are looking at them from Canada)
The Canadian falls are probably what you think of when you think of Niagara Falls. This is the “U” shaped waterfall better known as Horseshoe Falls and is the biggest of the 3.
Niagara Falls, Ontario is only a short hour and a half drive from Toronto so you can easily make this into a day trip.
Best Niagara Falls Canada Tours
#1 Best Of Niagara Falls Tour
Of course, the best thing you can do during a trip to Niagara Falls is get into the heart of the Niagara Gorge.
Two of the best tours allowing you to do this are the Hornblower cruise, sometimes called Voyage to the Falls, and Journey Behind the Falls.
THIS TOUR hits all of the top experiences in Niagara Falls and is the best one which will allow you to experience both of these most popular attractions and more!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (1300+ reviews) | 4-5 hours | BOOK NOW
Let me give you a quick rundown of each of the stops you’ll be making on this tour of Niagara Falls.
Journey Behind the Falls is a jaw-dropping experience where you will weave your way through the tunnels in the bedrock to an observation deck right at the foot of Horseshoe Falls. Prepare to get soaked as you step out into the viewing platform.
This tour is wheelchair accessible and is open year round from 10am-5pm (weekdays) and 6pm on the weekends.
The Hornblower is the Canadian counterpart to the Maid of the Mist which is located on the US side. You will dawn a red poncho and take a 20 minute boat ride face to face with the American and Horseshoe Falls.
Get ready to feel the power of Mother Nature as the water crashes down in front of you and you feel the spray of the water.
They are open from May-November weather provided. If you decide to take this tour during the winter months (December-April) in place of the Hornblower, you will visit the Butterfly Conservatory and watch the Niagara Fury 4D experience.
Skylon Tower
Get a birds-eye view of Niagara Falls from the Skylon Tower. You will ride an elevator 775 ft above the falls and can view them from an outdoor or an indoor viewing area.
The Skylon Tower also has the Skylon Tower Revolving Dining room and a buffet, 12 shops, and a large indoor amusement area.
You will also get to drive past and admire the famous Floral Clock.
Niagara Fury
Niagara’s Fury is one of the most underrated attractions on the Canadian Side in Niagara Falls.
This is a complete 4D experience that will leave you in awe. The ground will shake beneath you, you will feel the spray of water, and the temperature will drop.
There is an 8 minute animated show that will inform you how the falls were formed, and then another 6 minute show immediately following where you will witness the incredible force of Mother Nature in the creation of the falls.
Niagara Fury is ONLY offered as part of this tour during the winter months from December-April when the Hornblower is not operating.
Butterfly Conservatory
The final stop on this Niagara Falls Canada tour is at the Butterfly Conservatory. Prepare to be enchanted as over 2,000 butterflies fly around you as you wander through the lush gardens. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to have one land in your hand!
The Butterfly Conservatory is ONLY offered as part of this tour during the winter months from December-April when the Hornblower is not operating.
Still thinking about it? Check Rates & Availability here!!
#2 Niagara Falls Grand Helicopter Adventure
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (400+ reviews) | 20 minute ride | BOOK NOW
There are several tours that will include a helicopter ride with some of the other popular attractions included. However, I think this is the best helicopter tour over the falls because the ride time on the helicopter is significantly more than any of the other tours.
With National Helicopters, you will take an unforgettable 20 minute ride over the falls, Niagara wine country, and other historical landmarks. You will get a full view of the entire region. What I really like about this tour is that you get to pick your departure time so you can easily work around other activities that you have scheduled.
BOOK HERE, NOW (AND SAVE OVER $50 PER PERSON THAN BY BOOKING DIRECT)
#3 Clifton Hill Fun Pass
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (100+ reviews) | 1-6 hours | BOOK NOW
When you’re visiting the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, you can’t miss a stop on Clifton Hill. Especially if you are traveling with kids! This is the major street in the Niagara Falls, Ontario Canada area that is full of different attractions, shopping and restaurants.
This pass will save you SO MUCH MONEY!!! And if by chance you don’t get to do everything that is included all at once, the pass is good for a year!
Included in the fun pass is the famous Niagara Skywheel which you simply cannot miss! This 175 foot enclosed Ferris wheel will give you amazing views of all 3 falls and the Niagara River from a different perspective.
The climate controlled cabins are a great place to escape from the cold in the winter months and get out of the heat in the summer.
Depending on how busy it is and how many people you are traveling with, you may end up riding with another group. The cabins fit 8-9 people and in peak season this is a busy attraction.
The ride takes about 15 minutes and is open late at night. So you can even catch the light show on the falls from above!
In addition, the other 5 attractions included are your choice of Wizard Golf (a glow in the dark mini golf course) or Dinosaur Adventure Golf (18 hole golf course), Movieland Wax Museum, Zombie Attack, Ghost Blasters Dark Ride and Cosmic Coaster.
#4 Wildplay Zipline To The Falls
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (400+ reviews) | 1.5 hours | BOOK NOW
Another one of the coolest tours on the Canadian side of the falls is one where you will speed up to 40mph across 2,200 ft of the Niagara Gorge on a zipline. There are 4 ziplines that face the American and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls and you will experience breathtaking views.
You have to be at least 7 years old to participate in this excursion. They are open year round, daily from 11am-5pm. They operate rain or shine so be sure to dress for the weather. If it’s colder, you may want to bring some gloves too.
Complete your waiver in advance to expedite the check in process. If you are unable, make sure you arrive at least 15-20 minutes early.
READY FOR ADVENTURE??? BOOK NOW!!
#5 Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (400+ reviews) | 45-60 minutes
Take a thrilling one-hour, high-speed, white-water ride down the Niagara River through the Devil’s Hole rapids. You can choose your experience where you get completely soaked or stay completely dry.
They have locations on each side of the border. Reservations are recommended but they do allow walk-ins based on availability.
Canada Location & Cost: 74.95 CAD ages 13+ and 44.95 CAD ages 6-12
55 River Frontage Rd, Queenston, Ontario
CHOOSE YOUR EXPERIENCE – STAY DRY OR GET SOAKED!
#6 Best of Niagara Falls Tour From Toronto
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (65+ reviews) | 9 hours | BOOK NOW
Are you staying in the Toronto area and want to make a day trip to Niagara Falls? This is the best tour to book as it covers all of the highlights, and then some! It is very similar to the first tour listed in this guide.
This 9 hour tour will be a round trip, intimate tour with a maximum of 7 guests. You will be able to experience the immeasurable views from the Skylon Tower and get close to the thundering waters of Horseshoe falls on the Hornblower cruise AND Journey Behind the Falls. All admission fees are covered in your cost of the tour, plus they will pick you up at any of their designated areas in the downtown Tornoto area.
They will also drive past the floral clock and the Niagara Whirlpool so you’ll have plenty of picture-taking opportunities.
#7 Niagara-On-The-Lake Cycle and Wine Tasting Tour
5 out of 5 stars (170+ reviews) | 4-6 hours | BOOK NOW
If you’re looking to make the absolute most of your trip to the Niagara Falls region, then you can’t pass up an opportunity to take a tour through wine country.
Niagara-On-The-Lake has been named the prettiest town in Ontario and for good reason. This awesome tour lets you take a guided bicycle ride stopping at several wineries along the way.
There is a half day and a full day option. The half day includes snacks and the full day includes a full 2-course lunch. The guide are great and it’s just an all around unique way to experience the area.
Other Fun and Unique Things to do in Niagara Falls Canada
Of course, when you come to Niagara Falls you will be spending the majority of your time admiring the beauty of the falls and participating in excursions that involve them. However, if it happens to be raining or if you are looking for other fun things to do during your trip this list will help fill in those gaps!
Niagara Adventure Theatre
Sit back and relax while you watch an educational and entertaining film full of stories of Niagara Falls over the years. The theater is open 7 days a week. You can see all up-to-date showtimes HERE.
If you purchase tickets online the tickets are discounted.
Canada Location & Cost: 12.95CAD (10CAD online) ages 13+, 9.50CAD (7CAD online) ages 4-12
5781 Ellen Avenue, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Fallsview Indoor Water Park
When you’re visiting the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, be sure to have a day full of family fun at Fallsview Indoor Water Park. This indoor water park is only a 2 minute walk from the falls and has 16 slides, a hot springs and pools for all ages spread over 3 acres in this awesome facility.
They are connected to Falls Avenue Resort, which has 3 hotels to choose from. They have stay and play packages that you can check out here.
Address: 5685 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Healing Salt Cave
A unique, romantic way to spend some time in Niagara Falls is visiting the Healing Salt Caves. They specialize in halotherapy (salt). This is a welcoming and peaceful experience and you can choose from a variety of different services.
Address: 4025 Dorchester Rd, Unit C2, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Christienne Fallsview Spa
Get a massage with a view of both the American and Canadian falls in this luxury oasis. Perfect for a special anniversary or a girls’ trip.
Address: Inside the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel
5875 Falls Ave, 14th Floor, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Burning Springs Spa and Thermal Pools
The last spa that I recommend visiting on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is the Burning Springs Spa. The thermal pools promote wellness and are so incredibly relaxing.
You can book spa treatments and/or an oasis day pass where you can enjoy the three thermal pools, a Finnish style sauna, a Himalayan salt sauna, and an indoor hot tub and lounge.
Address: Inside the Marriott Fallsview Hotel
6740 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Bird Kingdom
A cool stop for families in Niagara Falls is the Bird Kingdom – the world’s largest free-flying aviary.
You can feed and interact with different birds, snakes, bearded dragons, tortoises and more. It’s fun for all ages!
The Bird Kingdom is open all year round from 9:30am-5pm with the last ticket being sold at 4:15pm. It will take approximately 45-60 minutes to walk through.
Location: 5651 River Rd, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Cost: $19.95 CAD (ages 16+) and $15.95 CAD (ages 3-15)
White Water Walk
Located about 2 miles from the falls, you can take a short ¼ mile walk on the edge of some of the world’s wildest white water rapids.
They are open seasonally from April-November. There are two viewing areas that are accessible by stairs, otherwise the rest of the walk is completely wheelchair accessible. Parking is also free.
Whirlpool Aero Car
Do you want to cross the border without a passport? This is the only way to do it!! You will take a 10 minute round trip over the Niagara Whirlpool and back, crossing into the US before coming back into Canada.
The able car holds up to 35 passengers and they all must be standing. Therefore, the tour is not wheelchair accessible. They are open seasonally from April – November.
Location: 3850 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls Ontario
Cost: $17.50CAD (ages 13+), $11.50 CAD (ages 3-12), under 2 is free.
Best Time To Visit Niagara Falls
The best time to visit Niagara Falls and participate in any of these tours is during the summer months, but this is also when crowds are heaviest and wait times are the longest. Visiting during the week, as opposed to the weekends or a holiday, will give you a little relief in the crowds.
Many of the major attractions, except the Hornblower cruise, are open year round so they offer a beautifully different perspective of the falls during the winter months.
Best Place to see the Falls on the Canadian Side
The good thing about visiting the Canadian side, is you will have a panoramic view of all 3 falls from pretty much anywhere – from dining to hotels.
The best place to stop and actually soak in the views though would be Table Rock Welcome Center. This is located right at the top of Horseshoe falls and offers incredible views of the thundering water pouring down into the gorge below.
The Skylon Tower is also another one of the best places to see the falls on the Canadian side. It offers a birds eye panoramic view.
How Long to Stay in Niagara Falls
A weekend is plenty of time to hit all of the major attractions and take any of the mentioned Niagara Falls Canada tours. It is even possible to see everything in one day.
Which Niagara Falls Hotel has the Best View?
The Canadian side of Niagara Falls has some AWESOME options for hotels with a view!
Some of my favorites are:
Dining Options on the Canadian Side
The Canadian side is where you want to be if you want dinner and a view. They also have more upscale dining options than the US side does.
We loved The Rainbow Room. It had an awesome view of the US falls, the food was great and we even got to see the fireworks show from our table. Situated directly in front of american falls with a great view of horseshoe falls as well.
Some other great options are:
- The Keg Steakhouse and Bar – for a gorgeous view of Horseshoe Falls
- The Rainforest Cafe – there are no views of the falls, but the kids will LOVE it here!
- Prime Steakhouse
- Massimo’s Italian Fallsview Restaurant
- Skylon Tower Revolving Dining Room – one of the most popular places to eat in Niagara Falls
- Watermark Fallsview Dining – the best view of both falls that is romantic, (yet expensive).
USA vs. Canada – Which Side to Choose
It really is a tough decision if you have to pick one side of Niagara Falls to visit. You can read more about this in depth here, but in a nutshell..
You’ll find that the Canadian side is more urban and commercialized where the US side is a state park. You’re able to get up close to all 3 of the falls on the US side, but there are overall more things to do on the Canadian side, and with that it is more expensive.
Final Thoughts: Best Niagara Falls Canada Tours
There are so many cool tour options in Niagara Falls Canada that you can choose from. The two most popular attractions are the Hornblower cruise and Journey Behind the Falls. These two are the most iconic Niagara Falls Canada tours that you definitely cannot miss. But don’t be afraid to branch out and check out some of the other thrilling and fun tours listed in this blog post as well!!
Looking for more ideas for a Niagara Falls getaway? Check out the best things to do on the US side!
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