The Canadian side of Niagara Falls is not only the privileged vantage point from which to view the famous Horseshoe Falls, but it’s also a place filled with attractions, many of which are quite eccentric, where you can entertain yourself or relax. We will now go over the most interesting activities that await you once you cross the Rainbow Bridge and set foot on Canadian soil.
However, it’s important to note a few things before we begin: some people might be a bit disappointed by the presence of many attractions that have nothing to do with the natural spectacle of Niagara Falls. Some might even go so far as to call some of them genuine tourist traps (from this perspective, the American side is much more “subdued” than one might expect). Nevertheless, many of them can offer a curious experience worth considering. Anyway, the Canadian side remains the viewpoint from which you can enjoy the best view of the falls, which is why we recommend visiting it.
Niagara Falls Canada Attractions
Continuing to read the article, you will find listed the main attractions along the route that separates the Rainbow Bridge from the famous Horseshoe Falls. We have chosen the most interesting and curious ones that will accompany you until you reach your destination. If you’ve decided to walk along the Canadian side instead of using a car, as we recommended in our article dedicated to visiting Niagara Falls between the USA and Canada, some of these can be considered for a pleasant stop before continuing. Before we begin, I’d also like to point out our in-depth guide dedicated to the climate of Niagara Falls to help you plan your itinerary effectively.
Rainbow Bridge
It is the gateway to Niagara Falls and the link between Canada and the United States. In addition to marking the border between the two countries, it is also one of the prime spots from which to take some photos and to enjoy the natural spectacle surrounding you from above.
Bird Kingdom
Fallsview Indoor Waterpark
An indoor water park with a large number of slides, pools, and other amenities to refresh your day. Like the previous attraction, it is a recommended stop, especially if you are traveling with children.
Information about Hours and Tickets
WildPlay Niagara Falls MistRider Zipline
If weather conditions permit, the most daring can try this adrenaline-pumping experience on the zipline. For those who are unfamiliar, it’s quite straightforward: you’ll be harnessed to a cable and propelled at a speed of 44 miles per hour along the edge of the gorge formed by the Niagara River. It’s not a budget-friendly attraction (starting at $50), but for those who choose to take on the challenge, it will undoubtedly be a memorable experience.
Information about Hours and Tickets
Oakes Garden Theatre
A real garden inside an amphitheater that provides a kind of oasis of peace and tranquility. A stop here is highly recommended if you are visiting the Canadian side of Niagara Falls during the high season when the streets can be particularly crowded. As an additional tip, you can check the official website to see which flowers and plants are in bloom during the time of your visit. Admission is free.
Niagara SkyWheel
For this and the next attraction, you’ll need to deviate a few feets inside Niagara Falls. Let’s start with the SkyWheel, which, along with the Skylon Tower, is perhaps one of the most immediately visible structures to tourists (it is Canada’s tallest ferris wheel). The attraction operates year-round, even in the rain, as the cabins are enclosed and air-conditioned. As you take photos and enjoy the scenery below you, a recorded voice will provide you with information about what you’re seeing.
Information about Hours and Tickets
Upside Down House Niagara Falls
We highlight this attraction, which can be a great opportunity to take an eccentric photo by posing outside this upside-down house. We emphasize “outside” because the ticket price to enter is not very budget-friendly, both for the experience it offers and because the actual visit is quite short.
Hornblower Niagara Cruises
After a few offbeat experiences, we’ve arrived at one of the most famous attractions in the area. We’re talking about the renowned boat tour, which, like its American counterpart, the Maid of the Mist, will take you up close to the falls in all their power. There are no substantial differences between the two boats (except for the color of the poncho provided to keep you from getting completely soaked), and you can learn more about the type of experience that awaits you by reading our article Maid of the Mist vs. Hornblower.
Queen Victoria Park
A small scenic park located right in front of the American Falls can be an excellent place to take shelter from the heat during the summer months in the shade of century-old trees or to enjoy a moment of tranquility before continuing your itinerary.
Skylon Tower
A true tower that rises above Niagara Falls; thanks to its 518 feet in height, it will allow you to enjoy a unique view of the surrounding area. But the Skylon Tower is not only recommended for taking beautiful photos; in fact, it also offers various dining and entertainment options. If you want to discover everything that awaits you, I invite you to read our article entirely dedicated to the Skylon Tower.
Fallsview Casino Resort
Even if you’re not particularly fond of gambling, this resort attracts many tourists for its buffet, which, at a reasonable price, can be the dining solution you’re looking for. However, considering the view it offers (especially from the higher floors), it can also be a choice to consider for staying at Niagara Falls. Those who want to try their luck will find plenty of options with over 3,000 slot machines and 130 gaming tables.
Nikola Tesla Statue
Located near the Fallsview Casino Resort, you will find a monument dedicated to Nikola Tesla. The presence of this statue on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls means that there is now a tribute to the famous Serbian-born scientist on both sides (the one on the American side is located on Goat Island). In this depiction, Tesla is shown standing atop a piece of alternating current electric motor while observing the currents of the Niagara River.
Journey Behind the Falls
An excursion highly recommended for those who want to get as close as possible to the Horseshoe Falls. You will descend to explore the tunnels carved into the rock that run behind the falls, where you’ll hear the roar of the rushing waters. Once you emerge, you’ll find yourself at the Lower Observation Deck, where you’ll need to have not only your camera ready but also your rain gear because otherwise, you’ll get quite wet!
