Things To Do In Niagara Falls Ontario

Things To Do In Niagara Falls Ontario

Niagara Falls is a popular tourist destination located on the border of Ontario and New York state. It brings in millions of visitors per year who come mainly to see the magnificent beauty and power of Niagara falls through several tours including up close boat tours, several observation decks and even private helicopter tours. The sheer size and power of the falls will take your breath away, but what else can you do in the city after visiting the falls?

Niagara Falls

Aside from the stunning natural beauty and enormous power of Niagara Falls, the city of Niagara Falls Ontario has a lot to offer. Visitors can take a tour of the hydro power stations which provide electricity to millions of US and Canadian residents, enjoy multiple entertainment options, visit the historic town of Niagara on the lake or even have a relaxing day tasting wine at one of Niagara region’s vineyards.

Visit the Hydro Power Stations

Having one of the highest water flow rates in the world makes the Niagara River one of the greatest sources for hydro electric power generation. The river stretches 58 kms from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, dropping a total of 99 meters in elevation along the way. As a result of this ideal location for hydro electric power, there have been several hydro power stations built near Niagara falls where the largest drop occurs.

On the Canadian side, there are a total of 3 large generating stations; Sir Adam Beck Generating Station number 1 and 2, and a nearby pumping generating station. Across the river on the American side there is another large generating station named the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant. Together these stations generate 4.4 million kilowatts of electricity, enough to provide supply one quarter of all the power used in Ontario and New York State. These generating stations have been popular Niagara Falls tourist attractions for years.

Enjoy Multiple Entertainment Options

When it comes to entertainment in Niagara Falls Ontario, you will have more than enough options to choose from. Most of the entertainment in Niagara Falls is located on and around a street known as Clifton Hill. No matter what age you are, there is something for everyone here including:

The Niagara SkyWheel

Hop on this 175 foot tall ferris wheel with 42 fully enclosed passenger cars to choose from, to get an unforgettable view of the falls and the surrounding city scape. The passenger car each fit 8 people and are climate controlled so they can be comfortably enjoyed year round.

Niagara Skywheel

Haunted Houses

If you think haunted houses are only for children, think again. There are several options to choose from that will scare you out of your pants. The most notoriously scary ones are Screamers and Nightmares, both of which have had thousands of people chicken out over the years.

Bustling Nightlife

Planning a bachelor party, birthday party or just want to have a crazy night out on the town? With several bars and clubs to choose from in a lively downtown core, Niagara Falls Ontario is an amazing place to let loose and party

Casinos

If partying the night away is not your thing, try your luck at one of Niagara Falls casinos. There are two casinos in Niagara Falls Ontario, Casino Niagara and Fallsview Casino, both of which are open 24 hours a day 365 days a year, and have plenty of table games or slot machines to choose from.

Visit Historic Niagara on the Lake

Located just outside of Niagara Falls Ontario where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario is a small historic town called Niagara on the Lake. In the late 1700’s it was a British military base where many pro-British loyalists fled to after the American Revolution. In 1792 Niagara on the Lake became the first capital of Ontario, known then as Upper Canada.

niagara on the lake

Many visitors come here to enjoy the the charm of British colonial life in Canada. The old world British colonial architecture combined with horse driven carriages riding around town make it feel like you’ve gone back in time.

Go to a Vineyard for a Wine Tour

With over 50 wineries to choose from in the Niagara Region, it is easy to find the perfect tour for you. Some of the activities in these wine tours can include wine tasting, vineyard tour, culinary classes and live music. There are many different types of wine to available at these vineyards, the most popular choice being the world renowned Niagara Icewine.

The ice wine harvest occurs once temperatures have reached temperatures of minus 13 degrees celsius, which give the grapes an optimal sugar level for this delicious treat. During the winter months, shortly after harvest, there is a winter ice wine festival where you can try the best of these wines. If you haven’t tried it before, Niagara Falls is one of the best places in the world to indulge in this sweet icy goodness.