Things to do

Top 10 Things To Do In Niagara Falls

Gorgeous waterfall view of Niagara Falls USA (photo by @aw_moment)
Source : instagram

Niagara Falls is a top-rated tourist attraction for good reason - the falls are breathtaking, and there are many ways to experience them.

Things to do in Niagara Falls include hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking at the parks. The falls here are simply awe-inspiring.

Whether you want to get up close and personal, take a boat ride, or explore the surrounding area, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city.

You can enjoy state parks, historic sites, and cultural centers or participate in outdoor activities like hiking, ziplining, and fishing. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to Niagara Falls can be overwhelming.

That's why we've compiled a comprehensive guide to the best things you can do in Niagara Falls to help you make the most of your visit.

1. Walk On The Cave Of The Winds

Things to do in Niagara Falls American Side is to go Cave of the Winds. It's a must-do adventure while your visit to the area.

The Cave of the Winds is a beloved attraction for visitors to experience the extraordinary power of Niagara Falls.

This exhilarating tour takes you down 175 feet (53 meters) into the Niagara Gorge, where you can walk along wooden walkways and platforms to get within feet of the crashing Bridal Veil Falls.

Stunning falls view at  Cave of the Winds observation decks
Source : viator

Although the name "Cave of the Winds" is a bit of a misnomer, as the original cave collapsed in 1920, the name still remains. The tour is available from May to October, and it is highly recommended to wear waterproof clothing since you will get drenched.

The Area: Goat Island Rd

Niagara Falls Cave of the Wins tickets: $10 to $21

Cave of the Winds Niagara Falls Hours: 9 AM–4:15 PM

2. Take A Boat Tour Of The Falls

Things to do in Niagara Falls NY side to enjoy the view are boat tours. Although you may end up getting drenched, the experience is truly unforgettable.

Niagara Falls boat tours offer an incredible way to witness the magnificence and power of the falls. With multiple tour companies to choose from, each one offers its own unique experience.

One of the most popular and oldest boat tours is the Maid of the Mist. Since 1846, this tour has been operating and remains the most famous in the area. It takes you to the falls' base, providing an immersive experience where you can feel the mist and the water's strength.

Maid of the Mist boat tour at Niagara Falls State Park, USA (photo by @jtowerphotographer)
Source : instagram

Another well-known boat tour is the Hornblower Niagara Cruises. These boats are open-air and slightly larger than the Maid of the Mist boats, providing a better view of the falls. However, you could get wetter on this ride.

For a more adventurous experience, Niagara Jet Boat Tours is a great option. These boats take you through the Niagara River's Class V rapids, providing an unforgettable wild and wet ride.

3. Bird Watching At Waterfowl Viewing Area

Free things to do in Niagara Falls NY go bird watching at Waterfowl Viewing Area. The environment in this park in NY is relaxing and peaceful.

If you're a bird enthusiast, the Waterfowl Viewing Area on Goat Island, part of Niagara Falls State Park, is the perfect place for you.

Devil bird spotted in Prospect Park (photo by Christopher Rigobello)
Source : nytimes

Here, you can catch a glimpse of a diverse range of birds such as ducks, geese, swans, and raptors. Spring and fall migrations are the best times to visit as a wider variety of birds pass through the area, but there are also plenty of birds that call this place their home all year round.

Make sure you bring your binoculars or spotting scope to get a closer look at the birds. The area also has benches and observation platforms for you to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Some of the birds you might see at the Waterfowl Viewing Area:

  • Ducks
  • Geese
  • Swans
  • Raptors

4. Go Whitewater Rafting

Best things to do in Niagara Falls is to experience the thrill of rafting. 

Well, it is a popular spot for whitewater rafting enthusiasts. The Niagara River boasts some of the toughest rapids in North America, making it a thrilling destination for experienced rafters.

Experience the fun of rafting in Niagara Falls New York
Source : viator

Several companies offer trips of varying lengths and difficulty, so you can choose one that suits your preferences.

For an intense adventure, opt for a rafting trip through the Class V rapids of the Niagara Gorge. These rapids are incredibly challenging and require expert skill and experience.

Regardless of your skill level, you'll have an unforgettable time whitewater rafting in Niagara Falls. The stunning scenery, difficult rapids, and rush of adrenaline are unbeatable.

5. Go Fishing At 53rd Street Fisherman's Park

What to do at Niagara Falls NY? Why not take a stroll through the 53rd Street Fisherman's Park?

Here, you can enjoy the beautiful sights of nature and even try your hand at fishing. It's the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the area's natural beauty.

Situated on the shores of Lake Erie, this park offers plenty of opportunities to catch various fish, such as bass, walleye, perch, and catfish; it's worth checking out.

View of the 53rd Street Fisherman's Park (photo by Paul Dyster)
Source : canada247

You can fish from the park's pier that extends into the lake or from various spots along the shore. The park is well-maintained and provides amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and a playground.

For the best fishing experience, it's recommended to visit 53rd Street Fisherman's Park during the spring and fall, during May, when the fish are more active. However, you can still fish there year-round.

6. Enjoy The View Of American Falls

Things to do near Niagara Falls NY is to enjoy scenic views of American Falls. Niagara Falls comprises three waterfalls, one of which is the American Falls.

Situated on the American side of the border between the United States and Canada, these falls are 180 feet (56 m) high and 1,075 feet (328 m) wide, making them the most forceful of the three.

Beautiful waterfalls' aerial view in Niagara Falls USA (photo by @jonaslegarth)
Source : instagram

There are multiple vantage points to admire the American Falls from, but some of the optimal locations include:

Prospect Point: A well-known location with stunning panoramic views of the falls, the Niagara River, and the surrounding area.

Luna Island: A small island found between the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, providing a unique perspective of the falls.

Observation Tower: The only spot on the American side that simultaneously offers a bird's-eye view of all three waterfalls.

Regardless of where you opt to view the American Falls, their beauty and power are sure to captivate you.

7. Picnic At the Parks

Fun things to do in Niagara Falls NY include picnicking at scenic parks. This area has multiple beautiful parks that offer picnic facilities.

Niagara Falls State Park is one option that features some of the most iconic views of the falls. This park has several picnic areas with grills, tables, and benches.

Luna Island views from Niagara Falls State Park
Source : instagram

For more scenic options, Goat Island is located between American Falls and Horseshoe Falls. This island has several overlooks, gardens, and multiple picnic areas. One of these areas even offers a view of the falls.

Finally, on the Canadian side of the Niagara River, Fort Niagara State Park is an excellent choice for those interested in history. This park dates back to the 17th century and features a museum, a historic fort, and several picnic areas.

List of Parks:

  • Whirlpool State Park
  • Hyde Park
  • Griffon Park
  • De Veaux Woods State Park

8. Eat Delicious At Fortuna Restaurant & Banquet

Romantic things to do in Niagara Falls is to dine at Fortune Restaurant & Banquet. It is a family-run establishment that has been providing authentic Italian cuisine for over 70 years.

The menu at Fortuna's is extensive, with a range of options to suit all tastes. Appetizers include crispy fried calamari, garlic knots, and baked clams. Pasta dishes such as spaghetti, meatballs, fettuccine alfredo, and lasagna are also available.

Enjoy classic Italian cuisines at Fortuna's Restaurant & Banquets
Source : facebook

Additionally, they offer a variety of seafood, chicken, and veal dishes. And to complete your authentic Italian dining experience, be sure to leave enough room for their delicious desserts like tiramisu or cannoli.

The dishes at Fortuna's are prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The sauces are homemade, and the pasta is freshly made daily. The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable. You will undoubtedly leave feeling satisfied and happy!

Location: 827 19th St, Little Italy

9. Hiking At Great Gorge Railway Trail

Things to do in Niagara Falls New York must include hiking with your pals at Great Gorge Railway Trail.

This trail is perfect for hikers of all levels as it's easy to follow and mostly flat. Along the way, you'll come across stunning scenic overlooks that showcase the Niagara River, the falls, and the bridges that connect the United States and Canada.

Additionally, you'll see remnants of the mills, factories, and infrastructure that relied on the fall's power during the Industrial Revolution in America.

Spectacular views from the Great Gorge Railway Trail
Source : traillink

The trail concludes at Whirlpool Rapids, where you can witness the powerful currents that rush through the gorge. If you're feeling daring, you can continue to the Whirlpool Bridge, which provides excellent views of the falls from the Canadian side.

The Great Gorge Railway Trail is an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of Niagara Falls while also learning about the area's history. Moreover, it's a relatively easy hike, making it a fantastic choice for families with children.

Address: Niagara Scenic Pkwy

10. Visit Aquarium of Niagara

What to do near Niagara Falls NY? Visit the Aquarium of Niagara brimming with aquatic species. 

The Aquarium of Niagara is an ideal choice for a budget-friendy vacation where you can enjoy over 120 species of aquatic life, including penguins, sea lions, jellyfish, and fish. The aquarium comprises several exhibits that focus on various regions of the world.

One of the most sought-after exhibits is the Shark Alley, which showcases various sharks. You can observe these fascinating creatures swimming through the tanks and learn about their remarkable adaptations.

The First Inland Oceanarium in Niagara Falls New York
Source : instagram

Another favored exhibit is the Penguin Coast, which features a colony of king penguins, rockhopper penguins, and macaroni penguins.

Apart from these exhibits, the Aquarium of Niagara also has several other displays, such as the Amazon Rainforest, the Niagara River, and the Great Lakes.

Admission: Adults (13+): $14.95, Seniors (62+): $12.95, Children (6-12): $9.95, Children (3-5): $6.95

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Location: 701 Whirlpool Street