Niagara Falls: Beyond the Tourist Traps

Niagara Falls is spectacular, but much of Clifton Hill is overpriced tourist traps. Here's how to experience Niagara the right way.

The Falls - Best Views

FREE Viewing:

Table Rock Centre viewpoint (right at the edge of Horseshoe Falls)
Niagara Parkway walking path
Queen Victoria Park

Worth Paying For:

Journey Behind the Falls ($25) - Tunnels behind the waterfall
Hornblower Boat Tour ($30) - Get soaked in the mist up close

Skip: Observation towers - free viewpoints are just as good.

Niagara-on-the-Lake (20 min drive)

This charming historic town is the real gem of the Niagara region.

Must-Do:

Bike the wine route (rent bikes in town)
Shaw Festival Theatre (world-class performances)
Queen Street shops and cafes
Lunch at Treadwell Cuisine

Wine Country Tours

Over 100 wineries in the Niagara region. Best options:

Peller Estates: Beautiful grounds, restaurant
Inniskillin: Famous ice wine producer
Jackson-Triggs: Modern facility with tours
Trius Winery: Excellent restaurant

Wine Tour Companies:

Crush on Niagara
Niagara Fun Tours
Grape Escape Wine Tours

Hidden Gems

Niagara Glen Nature Reserve

Hiking trails through ancient forest in the gorge below the falls. Stunning views, no crowds, completely FREE.

Whirlpool Aero Car

Cable car suspended over the Niagara Whirlpool. Less touristy than Clifton Hill attractions.

Queenston Heights Park

Historic park with monument, views, and great picnic spots. Free.

Where to Eat

Niagara-on-the-Lake:

Treadwell Cuisine (farm-to-table)
The Irish Harp Pub
Balzac's Coffee

Niagara Falls:

AG Inspired Cuisine
Tide and Vine Oyster House
Flour Mill Scratch Kitchen

Avoid: Any restaurant on Clifton Hill.