The Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls: A Family Guide

Location: Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of those bucket list destinations that lives up to the hype. With its thunderous cascades, mist-filled air, and endless family-friendly attractions, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. While the U.S. side offers incredible adventures right at the base of the falls, the Canadian side provides sweeping panoramic views and a wide range of activities.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Niagara Falls and the most unforgettable Niagara Falls attractions on both sides of the border. Don’t miss our Niagara Falls itinerary, where we’ve pulled all of these activities together into a seamless three-day adventure.

The Best Things to Do on the USA Side of Niagara Falls:

The American side of Niagara Falls may have fewer attractions than Canada, but it more than makes up for it with thrilling, up-close experiences. In fact, these two activities were the highlight of our trip:

1. Maid of the Mist

Nothing compares to the feeling of standing on the deck of the Maid of the Mist as it carries you into the heart of Horseshoe Falls. The roar of the water, the spray on your face, and the sheer power of nature all around make this an unforgettable adventure. You’ll be given a poncho, but be prepared to get wet—it’s all part of the fun.

I would recommend taking the earliest tour which is around 9 AM. Arrive at least a half hour early. Everyone will storm the top front of the boat, but if you go to the front of the bottom level, it actually sticks out more providing great views and it’s much less crowded.

Don’t bother bringing a good camera, you won’t even be able to take it out. You could bring a waterproof case to protect your phone and take pictures that way.

It was amazing to get up close to the falls, but the mist makes it hard to see. This experience is more about FEELING the falls.

After our boat tour, we walked straight to Cave of the Winds because we knew we would be getting even more wet over there.

2. Cave of the Winds

For an even closer encounter, head to the Cave of the Winds. A series of wooden walkways takes you right up to the base of Bridal Veil Falls.

On the “Hurricane Deck,” the force of the rushing water is so strong that it feels like you’re in the middle of a storm. It’s one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the falls.

Just embrace the wetness. Even with the poncho, water was going up my arms. Wear waterproof footwear like crocs because your shoes will get wet.

This visit was so nostalgic for me because I hadn’t been here since I was 10 years old. I still remember trying to touch the railing on the Hurricane Deck and couldn’t do it because the water’s force was so intense. The power of the falls is unbelievable. I had told my kids that story, so they were eager to test their courage and dared each other to try it too.

My kids thought that Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds were the two best things to do in Niagara Falls. After this attraction, we took an Uber back to the hotel to change.

Crossing the Canadian Border

Since we were staying on the American side of the falls, we had to walk across the Rainbow Bridge each day. You can walk or drive across the Rainbow Bridge.

I would not recommend driving. The driving lanes looked very long to get through passport control. You also have to pay to park at each attraction and parking is limited. Instead, I suggest walking across the border and using the WEGO bus, which conveniently connects all of the main attractions.

It was actually quite fun to walk across a boarder. There is a marker at the middle of the bridge so you can stand in two countries at one time. The kids loved getting their passports stamped and you get a great view of the falls.

It took us less than 10 minutes to clear passport control, so it wasn’t hard to do. Note that there is a $1 toll when you reenter the USA but you can pay with a credit card.

I think if we did it again, I would stay on the Canadian side to save time. We stayed at the Hyatt Place Niagara Falls which offered free breakfast and free parking so it was savings we couldn’t pass up.

Crossing into Canada opens up a whole new perspective. The views of the falls are undeniably better from this side, and there’s a long list of attractions to keep families entertained. If you’re visiting for the first time, you’ll find some of the best things to do in Niagara Falls right here on the Canadian side.

The Best Things to Do on the Canadian Side of Niagara Falls:

1. Niagara Parks Power Station & Tunnel

Step back in time at the Niagara Parks Power Station, a beautifully restored hydroelectric plant that once powered much of the region. Inside, interactive exhibits and immersive displays tell the story of how the falls were harnessed for electricity.

The highlight is the tunnel, a 2,200-foot-long passageway that leads to a viewing platform at the base of Horseshoe Falls. Standing there, you’ll feel the ground shake as millions of gallons of water rush past—it’s one of the most unique perspectives of Niagara Falls. I feel like this is an undiscovered gem! We actually preferred it to Journey Behind the Falls because it was much less crowded.

2. Whirlpool Aero Car

The Whirlpool Aero Car has been soaring above the Niagara River since 1916, making it a historic attraction as well as a thrilling ride. Suspended high above the swirling Class 6 rapids, this antique cable car offers a bird’s-eye view of the powerful Niagara Whirlpool below.

As you glide across the river, the contrast of turquoise water, white rapids, and lush greenery makes for an unforgettable panorama. This attraction does sell out, so the earlier you go the better.

3. White Water Walk

Few places let you get this close to nature’s raw power. The White Water Walk takes you down an elevator and onto a boardwalk built at the edge of the Niagara River.

Here, you’ll stand beside some of the fastest and most dangerous rapids in North America. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the geology and ecology of the area, but the main attraction is simply being just feet away from roaring Class 6 rapids that no boat could ever navigate.

4. Journey Behind the Falls

Journey Behind the Falls is one of the most iconic Niagara experiences. Visitors travel down 125 feet by elevator into a network of tunnels carved through bedrock. At the end, you’ll step onto observation decks directly behind Horseshoe Falls.

The sound is deafening, the mist soaks your poncho, and the sheer force of water crashing just feet away is unforgettable. It’s as close as you can get to standing inside the waterfall itself.

5. Niagara Takes Flight

One of Niagara’s newest attractions, Niagara Takes Flight is an immersive flying theater experience that lets you soar over some of the most stunning landscapes in Canada.

Seated in motion-simulated chairs, you’ll feel the rush of wind, mist, and scents as you glide over roaring waterfalls, vast forests, and iconic Canadian landmarks. The combination of a massive wraparound screen, special effects, and realistic flight sensations makes it feel like you’re truly flying.

It’s a family-friendly adventure that offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the region without ever leaving your seat.

6. Table Rock Restaurant

Located right at the edge of Horseshoe Falls, Table Rock Restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a dining experience with a front-row seat to one of the world’s natural wonders. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the falls as you enjoy Canadian-inspired cuisine. Whether you’re grabbing lunch or lingering over dinner, it’s hard to beat a view like this.

7. Niagara City Cruises

If you’re staying on the Canadian side, Niagara City Cruises is the must-do boat ride. It’s very similar to the Maid of the Mist, taking passengers up close to the base of Horseshoe Falls. You’ll be given a red poncho to keep dry, though you’ll still feel the mist as the boat edges into the thundering spray. While we personally preferred Maid of the Mist, this is a fantastic alternative and a memorable way to experience the falls.

8. Ziplining to the Falls

For thrill-seekers, the Zipline to the Falls is an adrenaline-pumping way to take in the scenery. Launching from a platform 220 feet high, riders soar nearly 2,200 feet across the Niagara Gorge, heading straight toward the mist of Horseshoe Falls. It’s equal parts breathtaking and exhilarating, and one of the most unique ways to see the falls.

9. Dinner at Skylon Tower

Rising 775 feet above Niagara Falls, the Skylon Tower offers unmatched panoramic views. Its revolving dining room makes a full rotation every hour, giving guests a constantly changing perspective of the falls and the glittering city skyline. At night, when the falls are illuminated in vibrant colors and fireworks light up the sky, dining here feels truly magical.

We had such a funny experience here, because Lizzie was afraid of the heights and Andrew was motion sick. We sat there trying to determine if we could do it and after about ten minutes, we did all get used to it. I’m glad we did because there is no better view of the falls.

10. Clifton Hill

Known as the “Street of Fun,” Clifton Hill is the entertainment hub of Niagara Falls, bursting with attractions for all ages. Families can explore arcades, wax museums, haunted houses, mini golf courses, and more.

The highlight for us was Niagara Speedway, a multi-level go-kart track that combines the thrill of racing with a roller-coaster-like design. It felt like being inside of Mario Kart. Our other favorite activities were Dinosaur Adventure Golf and the Niagara SkyWheel.

11. Lunch at Rainforest Café

A meal at the Rainforest Café is always an adventure, especially for kids. The themed restaurant features animatronic animals, lush jungle décor, and even simulated thunderstorms that roll through while you dine. It’s a fun, family-friendly break from sightseeing, and conveniently located in the heart of Clifton Hill.

Note: there is a Rainforest Cafe on the American side as well, so just be conscious of that if you are making a reservation.

12. Ripley’s Believe It or Not

Ripley’s Believe It or Not is a quirky stop on Clifton Hill, filled with oddities and unusual exhibits from around the world. From shrunken heads to mind-bending illusions, it’s equal parts museum and funhouse. This is a great rainy-day activity and a big hit with curious kids.

13. Nightly Fireworks

End the day with a bang. Fireworks light up the sky over the falls every evening at 10 pm. Even from the USA side, we could watch the show from our hotel window.

Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls

Bring your passport if you want to cross between the U.S. and Canada
Save On Tickets with Niagara Falls Adventure Pass you can save a bundle with a pass and it even includes the bus
Get a free “Niagara Parks Passport” my kids loved collecting a new sticker at each attraction to add to their book
Use the WEGO bus on the Canadian side for easy access to attractions
Book tickets in advance for popular activities Skylon Tower dining
Wear quick-dry clothes and waterproof shoes—you will get wet!

Final Thoughts

From the thrilling decks of the Maid of the Mist to the family fun of Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls offers something for everyone. While the Canadian side has more attractions and the best views, the American side delivers unmatched up-close encounters with the falls. No matter which side you visit—or if you’re lucky enough to experience both—you’ll find plenty of adventures that make this destination unforgettable.

If you’re planning a trip, be sure to add these experiences to your list of the best things to do in Niagara Falls. And if you’re traveling as a family, you’ll quickly see there’s no shortage of things to do in Niagara Falls with kids—from thrilling attractions to playful entertainment that will keep them excited all day long.

Whether you’re chasing adventure or just soaking in the views, the best things to do in Niagara Falls promise memories that will last a lifetime.