Niagara Falls Visitors Guide
This Comprehensive Niagara Falls Historic Timeline is a part of our Niagara Falls Guide, a comprehensive look at The Falls, top attractions, and other awesome parks in the region, with a focus on photography and nature.
Other Niagara Attractions: US or Canadian Side
More Niagara Attractions by Country
You want to visit Niagara Falls, but there are two destinations: The New York side or the Ontario side of the border. While Canada offers a much more robust tourism experience, many would refer to as a “tourism trap,” New York’s attractions have their charm, and nearby North Tonawanda, Lockport, and Buffalo add a lot more things to do. This guide breaks down some of the most enticing attractions on both sides of the border to help you finalize your plans.
Ontario, Canada
Battle Ground Hotel Museum
The Battle Ground Hotel Museum, steeped in the historic fabric of the Lundy’s Lane Battlefield, offers a glimpse into 19th-century tavern life and the early tourism that grew around this famous site of conflict. Once the residence of Ruth Redmond, a retired school teacher dedicated to preserving local heritage, the building now showcases furnished rooms from the 1850s and artifacts from the War of 1812. Through its exhibits and presentations, the museum illustrates the intersection of commemoration and tourism, highlighted by a period when an observation tower on the property enhanced visitors’ experience of the battlefield.
Within the walls of this restored tavern, the museum also delves into the social customs of the era, as evidenced by the Lady’s Parlour—a room signifying the genteel side of society, where women and children would gather, away from the vices of alcohol and tobacco. The decor and items like an ornate tea set not only reflect the feminine aspect of the period but also signal the wealth and social standing of its owners. This museum captures the essence of a time when Niagara Falls was burgeoning as a tourist destination, and Lundy’s Lane was at the heart of Canadian history. 
Bird Kingdom
Step into the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary, Bird Kingdom, where a vibrant tapestry of tropical birds unfolds before your eyes in a multi-level rainforest setting. Wander along the trails and encounter a variety of friendly parrots, along with a host of exotic animals, all part of the interactive Animal Encounters experience. As evening falls, delve into the mysteries of the Night Jungle, a haven for intriguing species like owls and bats. With distinct aviaries like the Small Bird Aviary, Lorikeet Aviary, and the Main Aviary, there’s an entire globe of feathered friends to meet. Perfect for visitors of all ages, Bird Kingdom promises an engaging adventure right in the heart of Niagara Falls, just a five-minute stroll from the thundering cascade. Remember to have your camera ready to capture the up-close wonder of these creatures in settings that echo their natural habitats, all year round.
Casino Niagara
Located adjacent to Clifton Hill, Casino Niagara elevates the gaming experience across two floors, boasting 1,500 slot machines, 45 gaming tables, and a vibrant schedule of live entertainment in Niagara. It’s complemented by three distinct dining and drinking venues, making it a comprehensive entertainment hub.
Fallsview Indoor Waterpark
Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is described as “Simply Amazing,” spanning 125,000 square feet filled with thrilling water activities year-round. Highlights include an expansive play area, a gigantic 1,000-gallon tipping bucket, towering six-story waterslides, a full-size wave pool, and an all-season outdoor activity pool with a sundeck. For those seeking relaxation, there are plunge bowls, two large Jacuzzis reserved for adults, and a dedicated play area for children. Beyond water-based fun, there’s a jungle beach playhouse for drier adventures. When hunger strikes, The Beach Club offers dining options where guests can enjoy a meal in style.
Fallsview Tower Hotel
Formerly the Konica Minolta Tower – Rising 525 ft (160 m) above the Falls, the 25th floor indoor observation deck is surrounded with anti-reflective glass to facilitate photography. The tower has several restaurants with amazing views. Although the Skylon Tower is higher, the Fallsview Tower Hotel is closer to the Horseshoe Falls.
Fort Erie Race Track
Established on June 16, 1897, Fort Erie Race Track has a rich legacy in Canadian horse racing history. The track’s resilience is evidenced by overcoming financial challenges, including a critical funding deal in 2013 and a long-term agreement with Ontario Racing in 2018, ensuring its preservation as a historical and cultural landmark. The track is renowned for hosting the Prince of Wales Stakes, a key event in Canada’s Triple Crown. This race, along with the unique Puss N Boots Cup—famous for its celebratory jockey plunge—highlights the track’s vibrant racing culture.
Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge in Niagara Falls, Ontario, is a family-friendly resort that offers an exciting indoor water park experience. Since its opening in 2006, the resort has featured a 100,000 square-foot water park maintained at a cozy 84 degrees, alongside attractions, events, dining options, and more, ensuring fun for the entire family. The resort boasts comfortable suites, themed rooms for immersive stays, and premium suites for larger groups, ensuring a cozy retreat after a day of fun. Dining options cater to every taste, from casual snacks to formal dining, ensuring guests have a variety of choices without leaving the excitement behind. Open year-round.
Greg Frewin Magic Theatre
Acclaimed stage illusionist and other magicians perform nightly shows at this theater near Clifton Hill. Frewin, ranked as The International Grand Champion of Magic, has won every major award offered within the magic community.
Hard Rock Cafe
Located conveniently at the main entrance to Casino Niagara, the Hard Rock Cafe Niagara Falls, Canada has two very special rooms you’ll want to check out: one dedicated entirely to Elvis and the other completely to the Beatles. The Hard Rock on this side of the river is more grand compared to the US side and is usually bustling with live music at night and a dance club. It’s located on Falls Ave, just a short walk from Clifton Hill.
Journey Behind the Falls
Discover the wintery splendor of Niagara Falls at Journey Behind the Falls, where the cascades transform into a sparkling icy realm. Venture through 130-year-old tunnels to uncover breathtaking views from cave-like portals behind the Horseshoe Falls, feeling the immense power and beauty of this natural wonder up-close. With a history dating back to 1832, this attraction offers a unique perspective on the falls, allowing visitors to truly experience the force of 168,000 cubic meters of water thundering down each second. Don an iconic poncho, stand on the Upper Observation Deck, and prepare to be awed by the majestic falls from a vantage point like no other. The journey starts from the Table Rock Welcome Center.
Laura Secord Homestead
Nestled to the north of Niagara Falls in Queenston, the Laura Secord Homestead marks the heroic 1812 war journey of Canada’s famed heroine. This preserved home, once commandeered by American forces, now offers tours led by guides in period attire, sharing Laura Secord’s daring exploits. Visitors can also enjoy light refreshments, including ice cream and Laura Secord chocolates, alongside a curated selection of souvenirs, enriching their historical experience at this significant Canadian site.
Lundy’s Lane
Lundy’s Lane has evolved from its historical roots as a pivotal battle site during the War of 1812 to become a vibrant district that blends its rich past with contemporary attractions. Today, it is celebrated for its variety of leisure options, encompassing everything from shopping at the Canada One Factory Outlets to family fun at Waves Indoor Water Park. The lane is a culinary hotspot with an array of dining choices ranging from fast food to fine dining, catering to all tastes and preferences. History enthusiasts can delve into the area’s storied past at the Lundy’s Lane Historical Museum, situated steps from the battlefield and offering insights into the famous Battle of Lundy’s Lane. This neighborhood masterfully merges its historic charm with modern conveniences, establishing itself as a must-visit destination for anyone touring Niagara Falls.
MarineLand
Once one of the more popular attractions in the immediate area, this hybrid zoo and amusement park has been under significant scrutiny in recent years for not only the welfare of the animals, but also the run-down nature of the park. The park offers a variety of rides, including two roller coasters and a free fall, as well as a new splash park for kids. There are some concessions, educational displays, and shows, but as of 2024, online reviews from visitors highly recommend avoiding this place. I would agree. I last visited over 10 years ago and it was pretty depressing.
Niagara Adventure Theatre
Dive into the daring tales of Niagara Falls’ adventurers through the “Niagara: Miracles, Myths & Magic” movie, showcasing thrilling stories like Annie Edson Taylor’s barrel plunge over the falls, Captain Joel Robinson’s turbulent journey on the Maid of the Mist, and Charles Blondin’s tightrope feats. This film brings to life the audacious attempts to conquer the falls’ mighty waters while combining the history of the falls with breathtaking adventure scenes. Now in a new venue, the theatre provides a cozy, accessible space for viewers to experience these incredible stories in multiple languages.
Niagara’s Fury
Experience the awe of Niagara Falls and its formation through a thrilling 4D motion theater journey, which simulates the last Ice Age with dynamic effects, including a temperature drop, mist, snow, and stunning visuals along the Niagara River in 360°. This family-friendly attraction offers a gripping introduction to the history of Niagara Falls, from its origins 12,500 years ago to the present. It’s probably the first film you’ll have to wear a raincoat for. The theater is located within the Table Rock Welcome Center.
Niagara Helicopters
Arguably the best way to see the falls. Embark on a thrilling aerial adventure offering over 50 years of exceptional service. Experience the exhilaration of flying over Niagara’s majestic landscapes, from the fierce rapids to the breathtaking waterfalls, with experienced pilots ensuring a safe and memorable journey. Enjoy the comfort of air-circulated, custom helicopters equipped with individual headsets for commentary. Flights are available daily from 9 am until sunset, weather permitting, promising the ride of a lifetime.
Niagara Falls History Museum
The Niagara Falls History Museum features three galleries with immersive exhibitions on the city’s history, including the War of 1812 and the evolution of Niagara Falls itself. Located near Drummond Hill Cemetery, a key War of 1812 battleground, the museum’s engaging displays, artifacts, and interactive experiences offer a comprehensive look at the events and people shaping Niagara Falls. Visitors can dive into the area’s geological past, heroic tales, and the impact of the war on local citizens, making it an essential starting point for exploring Niagara’s rich heritage.
Niagara Parks Power Station
The latest attraction revealing the untold stories of its historic significance and engineering marvels. Experience interactive exhibits by day and an electrifying interactive light show by night, showcasing the power station’s revival and its century-long legacy of harnessing the Horseshoe Falls’ energy. This immersive journey is a tribute to the visionaries and workers who illuminated a path of innovation and power generation.
Delve into the depths beneath the Niagara Parks Power Station with an exciting tunnel experience, taking you 180 feet underground. This journey, included in regular admission, showcases the engineering feat of carving a 2,200-foot tunnel using basic tools and dynamite, leading to a newly unveiled observation deck by the river with spectacular view of the falls.
Niagara Riding Stables
Ride horseback along the Niagara Escarpment amidst Niagara Wine Country. Enjoy the wonderful sights along this natural wonder as you ascend and descend. Only 15 minutes from the Falls.
Niagara Skywheel
Experience a unique view of Niagara Falls from 175 feet (53 m) up on the Niagara SkyWheel, Canada’s giant observation wheel. Climate-controlled gondolas offer comfort across all seasons, providing unmatched views of the falls, Niagara River, and landmarks day or night. Located in the vibrant Clifton Hill, the SkyWheel promises an unforgettable ride, blending scenic thrills with the dazzle of evening lights. The cost increases dramatically for the evening fireworks show, so get there early.
Riverbrink Art Museum
Since opening in 1983 in Queenston, in the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, RiverBrink Art Museum has offered the public access to the prestigious Samuel E. Weir art collection and select pieces from Canadian and international sources. Nestled in a spacious country home beside the Niagara River, the museum not only showcases rotating exhibitions but also features beautifully maintained gardens with stunning river views.
Shaw Festival
The Shaw Festival, nestled in the picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, offers a rich cultural experience, celebrating theater with a diverse array of plays from April to December. As North America’s second-largest repertory theatre company, it features productions that span the works of George Bernard Shaw and other playwrights, making it a pivotal part of the region’s tourism and cultural landscape. Beyond Shaw’s works, the production puts on around 10 productions each year for over 250,000 guests.
Skylon Tower
Towering 520 feet over street level and 950 feet above the falls, the iconic Skylon Tower features a mall, observation deck, 2 restaurants (one of which rotates), and scenic “yellow bug” elevators that climb the exterior. While the tower is well past its prime and it feels a bit empty these days, this is the premier viewing spot for the falls from above.
Welland Canal
Built for shipping to bypass Niagara Falls, the 27 mile long canal passes through several quant villages from Port Colborne on Lake Erie to St. Catharines on Lake Ontario. You can hike or bike alongside the canal on the Welland Parkway Trail, visit Lock 3 and the Welland Canals Centre in St. Catharines or Lock 7 in Thorold to view the variety of ships that pass by and the workings of the lock system.
Niagara Wineries
The combination of fertile soil and the microclimate created by the Great Lakes and Niagara River watersheds have turned the Niagara peninsula into a thriving wine region. Tour the region yourself or with a group, and sample the many award-winning varieties. From Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake there are several dozen wineries offering tastings, tours, and dining. Icewine is a must have, and, of course, the Niagara grape varieties the region is known for.
Wildplay Whirlpool Adventure Course
Atop the cliffs near the Niagara Whirlpool, this climbing rope course has small ziplines, tightropes, ladders, and other obstacles to challenge yourself. There’s also a 40-foot “What’s to Fear Jump”, a loose-line plummet to the forest floor. Hours of fun for all ages and spectacular views of the gorge.
Whirlpool Aero Car
High above the racing Niagara River, you’ll be transported through the air in an antique cable car from one point on the Canadian side, crossing the international border, 3,500 feet to another point on the Canadian side. Far below, the torrent of water abruptly changes direction and creates one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural phenomenons – the Niagara Whirlpool. While constructed originally in 1915, it has been continually maintained and rebuilt. In 2023 the car underwent even more modernizations.
White Water Walk
Stroll along a quarter-mile boardwalk at the very edge of one of the world’s wildest stretches of whitewater. Marvel at the relentless power and beauty of nature amidst the 10+ foot tall standing waves of the Niagara Rapids. The attraction also features a photo gallery of past rapids daredevils.
Wildplay Niagara Falls Zipline
The ‘Zipline to the Falls’ attraction offers a thrilling experience for visitors seeking adventure on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. Starting from a vantage point 220 feet high, it can propel riders at speeds of over 40 mph towards the Horseshoe Falls. Spanning a total distance of 2,200 feet, the zipline descends into the gorge, ending near the old power plant below the Queen Victoria Place restaurant. Designed for wide accessibility, it imposes minimal physical restrictions.
New York, USA
Anchor Bar
The birthplace of the Buffalo Wing in 1964 and a western NY institution since. The original bar and grill is located just outside of downtown Buffalo, but the Niagara Falls location is just a few blocks from the park at the Holiday Inn. The menu offers local cuisine with plenty of beers on tap. 
Buffalo AKG Art Museum
Formerly the Albright–Knox Art Gallery.
For over a century and a half, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum has been at the forefront of collecting, preserving, and showcasing contemporary art, frequently collaborating with the artists themselves. Its prestigious collection spans significant artistic movements from the 19th to the 21st centuries, featuring works by icons like Degas, Gauguin, Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Kahlo. Nestled beside Delaware Park, the museum’s architecture is a blend of neoclassical and modern design, reflecting its rich history and dynamic approach to art curation. The newly renovated campus, located just 20 minutes south of the falls, includes 25,000 square feet of new gallery space and a reimagined education wing with interactive exhibits.
Buffalo’s Many Chocolate Shops
Buffalo’s finest tradition is the hometown chocolate shop, and its shining star is chocolaty Sponge Candy. From the breathtaking interior of Parkside Candy, and Antoinette’s corner sweet shop, all the way to Fowler’s modern design and bold flavors, there are over a dozen shops offering up homemade candies year-round. Our recommendation is Platter’s Chocolates, which is just a 20 minute drive east of Niagara Falls, in North Tonawanda. It features a factory where guests can watch candy being made, a cafe and ice cream bar, a huge shop with chocolate in all shapes and sizes, and insightful tours of the place.
Buffalo-Niagara Waterkeeper River Tours
Rent a kayak or bring your own on this tour of the waterway of the Niagara River Watershed. Knowledgeable tour guides will take you and your group on the river, explaining the sights, wildlife, journey and importance of the water you encounter.
Buffalo Zoo
The Buffalo Zoo, established in 1875, is one of the oldest zoos in the United States, offering an intimate setting to explore and learn about diverse wildlife. It’s home to a variety of animals from around the world, focusing on conservation and education. The zoo provides a family-friendly experience, with exhibits and programs designed to engage visitors of all ages in wildlife preservation and environmental awareness. Its commitment to providing quality care for its animals and fostering a connection between nature and the community makes it a cherished institution.
Castellani Art Museum
The Castellani Art Museum, established in 1978 at Niagara University in Lewiston, New York, (just north of the Falls) showcases contemporary art and folk art. It started with Armand J. Castellani’s vision to enhance cultural understanding through a significant art collection for students and the Western New York public. The museum, designed by Thomas Moscati, features seven gallery spaces and educational programs, holding over 5,700 artworks, including pieces by renowned artists like Picasso and Warhol, as well as local artist and traveler depictions of Niagara Falls.
Fashion Outlets of Niagara
Just minutes from the falls, this modern indoor shopping complex features over 120 brand name outlets including Ralph Lauren, Banana Republic, Saks Fifth Avenue, Coach, Calvin Klein, Eddie Bauer, Fossil, Liz Claiborne, Oakley, Tommy Hilfiger and Timberland. Since it will take a while to hit all of these stores, there is also a food court.
Grand Lady Cruises
Grand Lady Cruises, Buffalo’s exclusive dinner cruise experience, offers a range of public and private voyages including brunch, sunset, and sightseeing cruises, alongside hosting private events like corporate gatherings and wedding celebrations. Cruising from the Buffalo River to Lake Erie, it provides a luxurious journey past Buffalo’s historic waterfront landmarks, equipped with modern amenities like renovated restrooms and air-conditioned dining areas. Whether you’re looking for a scenic sightseeing trip, a romantic dinner, or a unique venue for special occasions, the Grand Lady promises memorable experiences against the backdrop of Lake Erie and Buffalo’s maritime heritage.
Lockport Cave
Located in nearby Lockport, NY, this guided tour starts out at engineering marvels that are the Erie Canal locks 67-71 and 34-35, which climb the Niagara Escarpment and enabled New York to be a powerhouse of industry. From there a walking tour takes visitors through a 2,100 ft hydraulic tunnel constructed in the 1850s, that powered a network of factories. A haunted tour of the cave is a popular October event.
Hard Rock Cafe
Located conveniently across from Niagara Falls State Park, the Hard Rock Cafe is the definitive tourist eatery on the American side of the Falls. The decor: grand old American rock. Live music and events on occasion, but this location is not as bustling as the one across the border.
Historic Palace Theatre
The Palace Theatre was built in nearby Lockport, NY in 1925 as a 1200 seat proscenium arch style theatre. The theatre boasts a full orchestra pit complete with a hydraulic organ lift, balcony seating and a modern sound system. A visit to the Palace is like travelling back in time. Films and live shows run regularly. The theater is a 30-minute drive from Niagara Falls.
The Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum
The Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, located in North Tonawanda, NY, is dedicated to the preservation and presentation of carousel and amusement ride history. It resides in the original factory complex of the Allan Herschell Company, offering visitors a glimpse into the craftsmanship and history of carousels. The museum features exhibitions of both historic and contemporary word carving, and even features classes in the art. The stars of the show, of course, are the two operating carousels.
Native American Museum of Art
The Native American Museum of Art (NAMA), located on the Tuscarora Indian Reservation, just east of Niagara Falls, is a hub for celebrating and revitalizing Native American cultural arts. With free admission, the museum showcases the creative works of Joseph Jacobs and others, offering exhibits, educational resources, and insights into Native American languages and research. Its 3,500 square feet of museum space is open daily, dedicated to enriching visitors’ understanding of Native American cultures.
Niagara Aerospace Museum
Located in the old terminal building at the Niagara Falls International Airport, the museum houses a variety of aircraft, including a Bell P-39 Airacobra, 1910 Curtiss Pusher replica, Bell Model 47 helicopter and more.
Niagara Amusement Park
A small and affordable amusement park with over 50 rides and attractions (many are classics), live shows, a variety of carnival concessions, and a small water park with wave pool. Most attractions cater to kids, but the classic wooden coaster, the Silver Comet, is thrilling for all ages. It’s located on Grand Island, between Niagara Falls and Buffalo.
Niagara Breweries and Cideries
The Niagara, NY region boasts a vibrant brewery and cidery scene, with establishments like Woodcock Brothers Brewery and Becker Brewing Company offering a diverse array of locally-produced beers. The area also prides itself on craft cider production, exemplified by Donovan Orchards Estate Ciders, which produces all its ciders from apples grown in its own orchards, ensuring a gluten-free option for visitors. This mix of breweries and cideries provides a comprehensive taste of Niagara’s rich agricultural and brewing heritage.
Niagara Climbing Center
Since 1998, the Niagara Climbing Center has been a cornerstone for indoor climbing enthusiasts in the Buffalo/Niagara area. This full-service climbing gym focuses on safety and fun, offering expertly designed routes and comprehensive climbing instruction. Embracing rock climbing’s benefits for both mind and body, the center encourages climbers to set personal goals, enhance their risk-taking abilities, and sharpen their mental acuity, all within a supportive community. A great place for regular fitness challenges or for people wanting to try something new. Located in North Tonawanda, just 20 minutes from the falls.
Niagara Gorge Discovery Center
The Niagara Gorge Discovery Center offers an immersive experience into the natural and cultural history of Niagara Falls and its surrounding areas. With interactive exhibits, a rock climbing wall showcasing geological formations, and educational displays about the region’s ancient rock layers and fossils, visitors gain deep insights into the area’s history. Highlights include a virtual journey and a theater presentation explaining the formation of the gorge and falls over millennia. It also serves as a starting point for exploring extensive hiking trails. It’s located just a short walk (or drive), north of the park. Pedestrians can walk Under the Rainbow Bridge to get to it.
Niagara Power Vista
Located at the top of the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant, the Niagara Power Vista is a premier educational destination, offering over 50 interactive exhibits that provide a hands-on exploration of electricity and hydroelectric power, making it perfect for school groups and community organizations. It’s a place where science meets fun, offering an enriching STEM experience through educational tours, workshops, and the high-tech Power Player Experience. This venue also provides free event space for various gatherings, enhancing the learning journey. A fishing platform is accessible at the base of the dam.
Niagara Scenic Trolley
The Niagara Falls Trolley offers a guided tour around the park, combining historical insights, fun facts, and tips on visiting top attractions. It operates eco-friendly Scenic Trolleys that adapt to seasonal weather conditions for visitor comfort, aligning with the park’s “Green Park Project” recognized for environmental excellence. The service accommodates visitors with limited mobility, ensuring everyone can explore Niagara Falls State Park’s wonders. Don’t overlook these “busses” when visiting the park. They are a great way to get around and avoid walking all day in the heat. The cost to ride is only a few dollars.
Niagara University Theater
Since 1964, Niagara University Theatre has been a cornerstone in the region’s cultural landscape, focusing on delivering professional-level theatrical productions, fostering cultural growth, and nurturing student talent within the arts. Embracing a wide array of genres, from classic to contemporary and musical to physical theatre, the program offers students practical experience to complement their academic training, underlining its commitment to artistic excellence and community enrichment. Shows have great production quality and are put on throughout the year.
Niagara Wine Trail
The Niagara Wine Trail in New York State is renowned for its diverse selection of wineries, benefiting from the unique microclimate created by the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario. This region is perfect for producing a variety of wines, including Riesling, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Vidal Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc. Visitors can enjoy tastings of traditional vinifera style, native, late harvest, and ice wines, as well as fruit wines, meads, and ciders at family-owned wineries along the trail. The wineries span across northern Niagara County, along Lake Ontario.
Ransomville Speedway
Ransomville Raceway stands out as a premier destination for dirt track racing enthusiasts in New York. Known for its exhilarating monster truck shows and competitive go-kart races, it offers a dynamic atmosphere for fans to support professional racers. Nestled in Niagara County, this ½ mile dirt track is conveniently located just a 20-minute drive from Niagara Falls, making it an accessible adventure for those visiting the area. Located in Ransomville, just 30 minutes outside of Niagara Falls.
Riviera Theatre
This gorgeous historic theater in nearby North Tonawanda was constructed in 1926 in the Italian Renaissance style. Although upgraded for modern films and shows, the theater still has classic touches; such as the Mighty Wurlitzer organ and 3/4 ton crystal chandelier. Movies, live music, multimedia experiences, and more. Check the schedule for what’s coming up. Located just 20 minutes from the falls.
Schoellkopf Power Plant Ruins
Constructed between 1905 and 1924, the Schoellkopf Power Station was once the world’s largest hydroelectric facility. A catastrophic collapse in 1956 destroyed much of it, marking a significant event in Niagara Falls’ history. In 2013, the site began a new chapter with the Maid of the Mist using it for winter boat storage, also restoring the original elevator shaft for public access to the gorge. Open seasonally, the elevator ride is informative and free. It leads to a platform in the gorge with fantastic views.
Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima
Located 20 minutes northeast of Niagara Falls, Our Lady of Fatima Shrine is a sanctuary of natural beauty, art, and spirituality. It features a Dome Basilica with a glass and Plexiglas double layer, showcasing the Northern Hemisphere. The Basilica is approached via the Avenue of the Saints, adorned with over 130 life-size saint statues, leading to the Rosary Pool. A grand statue of Our Lady of Fatima crowns the dome, offering panoramic views of the shrine and its verdant surroundings.
Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours
Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours offers an unparalleled adventure along the Niagara River into the breathtaking Niagara Gorge. Operating from May to October, these tours provide an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether opting for a wet or dry journey, guests are guaranteed a memorable ride, showcasing the power and beauty of the Niagara River’s rapids. Departures are available from both Queenston, Ontario, and Lewiston, NY, making it an accessible adventure from key locations in the region.
Old Falls Street
Old Falls Street is a vibrant three-block cobblestone street filled with food, festivals, and fun, connecting Niagara Falls State Park with the Niagara Falls Convention Center and downtown attractions. It’s an entertainment hub offering seasonal events, gift shops, indoor and outdoor dining, and family-friendly games, live music, food trucks, ice cream shops and lots to explore, making it a lively spot for visitors and locals.
