Niagara Falls
Niagara Parks Commission · Niagara Falls, Ontario
Niagara Falls in Ontario is three waterfalls on the Niagara River between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Horseshoe Falls, mostly on the Canadian side, is about 57 m high and carries the greatest flow, while the American and Bridal Veil falls sit on the US side. The Ontario bank gives the best head-on view of all three. You can stand at the brink at Table Rock, go behind the water at Journey Behind the Falls, walk the White Water Walk by the rapids, or take the boat ride to the base, which on the Canadian side is run by a concession, so confirm season and tickets. The mist soaks everyone, though ponchos are provided on the boats. Clifton Hill, the tourist strip behind the falls, is honestly cheesy, noisy and crowded. It suits almost everyone, families and first-time visitors especially. Allow a short half-day to a full day, with the best light in the morning or evening, and confirm summer parking costs.
Table Rock Centre, 6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2E 6T2, Canada
The falls themselves can be viewed free at any hour from the parkland and Niagara Parkway, and the night-time illuminations run each evening, with summer fireworks on set nights, so confirm times for your visit. Attractions such as Journey Behind the Falls, the White Water Walk and the boat ride to the base keep seasonal hours, longest from late spring to early autumn and shorter or partly closed in winter. The boat ride on the Canadian side is run by a concession and usually stops when ice or weather make it unsafe, so confirm the season and tickets before you go. Parking near the falls is paid and can be costly in summer, so confirm rates and consider shuttle buses. A passport is required if you plan to cross the Rainbow Bridge to the US.