It’s one of the world’s most famous waterfalls, spanning the border of two countries, with the highest flow rate of any waterfall in North America. But that is just the starting point. Niagara Falls offers much more than the iconic waterfalls.
Go beyond this famous icon to discover a rich and accessible ecosystem where abundant farmland and vineyards create an exciting culinary scene, while scenic landscapes promise unlimited hiking, cycling and birdwatching opportunities.
You can easily fill weeks in this region of Ontario, but even a weekend will do. Read on for how to fill three unforgettable days in Niagara.
Day 1:
Starting from the gateway of Toronto, take the hour-and-a-half drive to Niagara Falls. Stretch your legs with Niagara River Bike Tours, offering 2.5-hour cycling tours showcasing the hidden gems of Niagara, including the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, Queenstone Heights – the birthplace of Niagara Falls – and the churning whirlpool. You’ll also see the Landscape of Nations Monument, a living memorial dedicated to the contributions and sacrifices of Six Nations and Native Allies on Queenstone Heights and throughout the War of 1812.
When you arrive at Niagara Falls, book dinner at Table Rock House Restaurant, located right at the brink of the falls – it’s the perfect spot to see the nightly illumination as the falls are transformed into a multicoloured water and light masterpiece.
For the perfect vantage point, overnight at the Embassy Suites Fallsview, the closest hotel to the falls, where jaw-dropping views can be seen from every window.
Day 2:
Fuel up for the day at the historic Flour Mill Scratch Kitchen Restaurant, known for its weekend brunch as well as private dining cabins and domes in the courtyard.
A few minutes away is the recently renovated and expanded Niagara Falls History Museum, located steps from the Drummond Hill Cemetery, a focal point for the Battle of Lundy’s Lane – the “bloodiest battle of the War of 1812”.
Pop into the nearby Botanical Gardens and snap photos of the iconic Floral Clock – made of 16,000 plants – then visit the Japanese-style garden and fragrant Centennial Lilac Garden. Before departing, make sure you stop to smell the roses at Canada’s largest rose garden.
Fifteen minutes from here is one of Canada’s finest wine regions, where more than 50 wineries are perched along the shores of Lake Ontario. Stop by Ravine Vineyard, located on a century-old farm owned and operated by a family who bake bread, raise pigs, and grow certified organic vegetables.
Next, head to Two Sisters Vineyards and enjoy a fireside wine tasting on the veranda. The vineyard is set amid atmospheric surroundings that evoke the old-world charm of a European estate.
End the evening with dinner and a wine flight at Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery and Distillery, founded by Canadian hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. The 23,000-square-foot facility is the first combined winery and distillery in Ontario and features an outdoor skating rink.
Day 3:
Soothe tired muscles at the new Marriott Fallsview Burning Springs Spa & Thermal Pool, set to open in 2022, or head to the newly renovated Christienne Fallsview Spa at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, complete with an infinity tub and breathtaking views of the Falls.
Ready for a unique vantage point? Take a helicopter tour that soars 457 metres above the falls, allowing for dazzling aerial shots of the city. Or, take a gondola right above the water on the Niagara Skywheel, Canada’s largest observation wheel.
Enjoy lunch at The Niagara Distillery, whose six signature spirits can be sampled on-own or mixed into a delicious cocktail, or check out the Niagara Brewing Company, marrying Canada’s brewing heritage with today’s innovative craft beer scene.
End your trip with a unique Canadian experience at Maple Leaf Place, where you can sample flights of pure maple syrup. Afterward, explore the interactive Maple Trail, the world’s only indoor Maple Sugar Bush experience, which includes an immersive glimpse into Canada’s maple syrup heritage.