Niagara Falls is one destination in Ontario that everyone should visit at least once. This world-famous natural wonder draws in millions of visitors every year, but there are a lot of other things to do in Niagara Falls and the surrounding area too. Whether you want to watch the mist rise up from the Falls, enjoy the scenic views from the walking paths, or get up close on a boat ride, planning a weekend trip to Niagara Falls is easier than you think.
The Niagara Region is steeped in history, and beyond Niagara Falls there are plenty of historic sites to visit as well as Niagara-on-the-Lake, local wineries in NOTL, and even a hydroelectric power plant. The great thing about spending a weekend in Niagara Falls is that everything is within easy driving distance from one another, and the public transportation is easy to use too. Niagara Falls is an ideal choice if you’re looking for somewhere that balances culture, relaxation, and natural beauty.
Where to park in Niagara Falls
Parking in Niagara Falls can be expensive, especially street parking near Clifton Hill which is often above $20.00 per hour. One of the most convenient options is the Rapidsview Parking Lot C, which you can use for free if you purchase the Niagara Falls Adventure Pass. From here, you’re just a short WEGO bus ride away from the main attractions – and you don’t have to worry about paying a small fortune for parking either.
I’d highly recommend using the WEGO bus system to get around Niagara Falls so you don’t need to move your vehicle. The bus will also take you to Niagara-on-the-Lake and other attractions that are further away from Table Rock. The WEGO buses are very frequent, meaning you won’t have long to wait.
Day 1: Arrival in the Niagara Region
The time you plan to arrive in Niagara Falls will determine how much you can fit into your first day here. When we visit Niagara Falls, the first thing we do is to check into the hotel so we can drop off all of our gear and get the parking situation sorted out. Some hotels will offer on-site parking which you might find more convenient than using the Rapidsview Parking Lot, though the prices will be much higher.
Once you’ve checked into your hotel, you’ll most likely want to catch a glimpse of Niagara Falls first. Take a walk along the Niagara Parkway where you can get the best views of the Horseshoe Falls and the Falls on the American side. This will also help you understand where some of the main attractions in Niagara Falls are located.
After this, find somewhere nice to eat. I always tend to eat in Niagara-on-the-Lake to avoid the chain restaurants in Niagara Falls. However, if you don’t want to do this you’ll find there are plenty of restaurants along Clifton Hill or even inside the hotels.
With dinner complete, it’s time to check out Clifton Hill at night. If you want to go on some of the attractions here, there’s a Clifton Hill Fun Pass available online which lets you save a bit of money overall. Don’t miss out on the SkyWheel, and make sure you add mini gold to your itinerary for some competitive fun!
Day 2: Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls boat tour
One of the most popular things to do during a weekend trip to Niagara Falls is to hop on a boat ride. Niagara City Cruises (what used to be the Maid of the Mist) is an iconic activity that has to be done at least once in your lifetime. The cruise departs from the base of Clifton Hill and it takes you close to the American and Horseshoe Falls. It offers a perspective you won’t find anywhere else, making it one of the most immersive ways to experience the Falls.
Boat tours in Niagara Falls date back to the mid-1800s, and today’s vessels are continuing on with this tradition. The complimentary red ponchos are an added bonus if you want to take a reminder of your experience home with you. Due to the very cold temperatures that hit Canada in the winter, Niagara City Cruises are only operable from spring to fall. In the summer months the lines can be very long, so make sure you book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Take advantage of the Niagara Falls Adventure Pass Plus
If this is your first time planning a weekend trip to Niagara Falls, or maybe you’re showing friends and family around the area, the Niagara Falls Adventure Pass Plus offers a great way to save money on key attractions. This pass is available through Niagara Parks and it includes entry into must-try experiences like the Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara Takes Flight, the White Water Walk, and the Niagara Parks Power Station. Not to mention the unlimited WEGO bus transportation and discounts at restaurants and stores around Niagara Falls.
The Adventure Pass Plus is very popular with visitors as it lets you streamline your itinerary and reduce waiting times. You will, however, need to choose a time and date to visit each attraction when you pick up your tickets from the Table Rock Welcome Centre. This pass makes planning your weekend trip to Niagara Falls even easier.
Snap a photo with the Niagara Falls sign
Located next to the Table Rock Welcome Centre is a beautiful Niagara Falls sign, with the Horseshoe Falls as the backdrop. This is a fairly new installation so many people don’t know about it yet unless they walk past it by coincidence. Be prepared to wait for a chance to jump in for a photo, especially in the crowded summer season. You’ll find that most people are clustered around the railings though, looking down at the Falls, so you may just luck out and have a good chance for a mini photoshoot during your weekend trip to Niagara Falls.
See Niagara Falls at night
After you’ve spent an entire day enjoying all of the city’s attractions, you should take some time to see Niagara Falls at night. Every evening the Falls are illuminated with colourful LED lights that transform the Falls into a glowing landmark. On select nights, special colours are used to mark awareness campaigns, holidays, and international events too. If you’re visiting during Canada Day, you’ll be able to enjoy a stunning fireworks display that takes place over the Horseshoe Falls. Whatever time of the year you plan your weekend trip to Niagara Falls during, the Falls at night are a truly magical sight.
Day 3: Niagara-on-the-Lake
Breakfast at Treadwell Cuisine
Niagara Falls can be very overwhelming for first-time visitors, and many people neglect to spend time further down the road, in Niagara-on-the-Lake. However, I’d highly recommend spending your final day in NOTL – you’ll be thankful for the more relaxed pace.
To start the day off right (if you don’t get a hotel breakfast) stop by Treadwell Cuisine in the heart of NOTL’s old town. Their food is all locally sourced and they prepare their dishes fresh when you order. It’s not the cheapest place to eat in NOTL but the quality of the ingredients is hard to beat. This is also a great place to come for dinner if you’re interested in fine dining with a set menu.
Walk around NOTL Old Town
There’s nothing better than enjoying Niagara-on-the-Lake’s old town. This picturesque town is well known for its flower-lined streets, 19th century buildings that have been beautifully preserved, and its food scene. It’s a far cry from Niagara Falls, and it really does feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and local boutique shops are all within easy walking distance from each other, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing final day in the Niagara Region.
In the summer months, NOTL can become very busy, especially on weekends. This is something to keep in mind if you plan on parking or eating here. You may even want to stay overnight in NOTL, which is always a great option in my opinion. It also adds a special touch to your weekend trip to Niagara Falls.
Have a wine tasting experience
The heart of Ontario’s wine country is Niagara-on-the-Lake, so a wine-tasting experience is a must during a weekend trip to Niagara Falls. The region is famous for its icewine as well as its cool-climate whites and elegant reds. You’ll find numerous wineries in NOTL spread out near the old town, including Konzelmann Estate Winery and Marynissen Estates. Each winery offers its own unique tasting experience. You can often find ones that include either snacks or a full meal to pair with the wines.
Even if you’re not a big fan of wine, I’d still suggest visiting at least one winery during a weekend trip to Niagara Falls. You don’t necessarily need to try any wine to enjoy the sweeping vineyard views and the local cuisine at some of the top wineries in Canada.
Explore NOTL’s history
If you’ve not had your fill of history while walking around NOTL Old Town, there are a lot of incredible historic sites in Niagara-on-the-Lake to enjoy further afield too. This includes several historic homes, Fort Mississauga, and Fort George. They offer the perfect insight into Niagara’s colonial past, and these locations add a bit more content to your visit beyond the charming streets of the Old Town.
You’ll find that many historic sites in NOTL offer guided tours and reenactments which make visits more engaging and less static. A personal favourite of mine is Fort George, where you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring this rebuilt fort that was destroyed during the War of 1812.
Cruise through the Niagara Gorge
Those of you who are thrill seekers should jump at the chance to experience the Niagara River with Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours. This high-speed boat ride takes you through Class 5 whitewater rapids in the Niagara Gorge, just a short drive from Niagara Falls. Riders can choose between a wet or dry experience, depending how soaked you want to get during your weekend trip to Niagara Falls.
I’ve tried both experiences and the wet tour is fantastic, though you definitely need to bring a completely different set of clothing to change into after (including shoes). This is easily one of the best experiences in the Niagara Region, but keep in mind it only runs on a seasonal basis, from April to October.
Walk along the waterfront at sunset
One of the best things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake near sunset is to take a walk along the waterfront. This is a peaceful way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without going on a long hike. NOTL’s waterfront offers open green spaces with fantastic views and scenic paths, making it a favourite spot for photographers and couples. You can either walk from the Old Town to the waterfront or park in a nearby parking lot if you’re short on time. I’d recommend the walk though, so you can admire the colonial houses along the way.
Spend the evening at 11th Post on Queen
There are a lot of places to eat in Niagara-on-the-Lake, many of which have a strong focus on using local ingredients in their dishes. A great way to experience the food scene here is to dine at 11th Post on Queen, located right in the heart of NOTL’s Old Town. This restaurant offers a welcoming setting that’s both approachable and a little upscale. 11th Post on Queen is owned by Two Sisters Vineyards, so you can bet that only the best wine is served here too.
The menu at 11th Post on Queen changes throughout the year, as they have a big focus on seasonal and local produce. You’ll find a good mixture of classic and fusion dishes on offer, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Considering it’s a rather upscale restaurant, the prices are very reasonable overall.
Where to stay near Niagara Falls
The Scotsman Hotel
If you’re interested in staying near Niagara Falls, rather than in it, a great place to base yourself is Niagara-on-the-Lake. It’s only about a 25 minute drive from the Falls, and you’ll find it a lot more peaceful. For a luxurious weekend trip to Niagara Falls, you shouldn’t book anywhere other than The Scotsman Hotel.
This stylish, boutique hotel in NOTL has a Scottish theme to it, and from the moment you walk through the door you’ll be treated like royalty. Everything is included in the price too, such as breakfast, a welcome bottle of prosecco, and snacks in both the room and the common areas. Staying here allows you to enjoy peaceful evenings in a convenient location where you can combine sightseeing with a relaxed overnight stay.
Is Niagara Falls or Niagara-on-the-Lake better?
Making the decision between Niagara Falls or Niagara-on-the-Lake comes down to the type of experience you’re hoping for. If you still can’t decide, the good news is that you really don’t have to choose. Niagara Falls is unmatched in terms of attractions, iconic sights, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Niagara-on-the-Lake is more about having a slower, refined pace tied together with historic charm and wineries. By adding both locations to your itinerary for a weekend trip to Niagara Falls, you’ll get the best of both worlds without compromising on what’s most important to you.
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If you have any questions about planning a weekend trip to Niagara Falls, where to stay in the region, or what attractions in Niagara Falls to prioritize, please get in touch. You can reach out via the contact form on my website or by email. Don’t forget to follow along with my adventures on Instagram and TikTok as well, where you’ll find plenty of travel tips to help you plan your next trip.
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