One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Niagara Falls should be on any nature lover’s bucket list. While both the US and Canadian sides of the falls are a must-see, we’re focusing on how to visit Niagara Falls in Canada.
From how to get there, managing the border crossing and which trips to book, these insider tips will make sure you have an unforgettable Niagara Falls experience.
1. Why Go To Niagara Falls in Canada?
Well, there’s three main waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. The Horseshoe Falls is on the Canadian side and is the largest of all, with arguably the best views.
2. Don’t Forget Your Passport To Visit Niagara Falls
It might sound obvious, but if you’re crossing the border from America to Canada, you’ll need a passport. When you enter Canada, a Canada Border Services Agency officer may ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if one is necessary.
If you are a citizen of the United States over the age of 16, you will need a Passport, a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver’s Licence (only issued by certain states) to enter Canada.
3. Don’t Just Plan a Day Trip
While you can do a Niagara Falls day trip, you won’t have time to see all the attractions. To really get the most out of your trip, we suggest you stay overnight so you can enjoy the fireworks late at night. As well as the falls themselves, there’s beautiful lakes, wineries and other attractions in the area. There’s so much to see here!
4. Research Which Experiences To Do
Once you’ve had a chance to see the American and Horseshoe Falls from the sidelines, getting up close is a must. Hornblower Niagara Cruises takes visitors on a boat ride tour to the foot of the Falls for a wet and wild view of the 13-story falls from below.
A completely different sensation, Journey Behind the Falls where you hear sounds like thunder as you descend to tunnels that travel to Observation Decks literally behind the falls. What you want to do depends on each person – are you a thrill seeker?
5. Book a Helicopter Tour to See the Falls From Above
Seeing the Falls from above gives you a perspective like no other. On a clear day you will see the outline of Toronto to the North and the shores of Lake Erie to the South. Niagara Helicopters operates year-round from 9am until sunset, and you don’t need to book in advance.
6. Where to Get the Best Photos?
There’s plenty of Instagrammable spots at the Niagara Falls. Our top picks include from the helicopter above, and Journey Behind the Falls. The lower observatory deck of Journey Behind the Falls gets you as close to the base of the falls as you can get!
7. What to Pack for Niagara Falls:
Do yourself a favour and bookmark this packing list! As well as all your usual clothes and toiletries for a trip, there’s some key things to bring. Keep in mind you’ll be getting very wet…
- Water shoes or waterproof shoe covers (sandals can get slippy when wet)
- A waterproof phone cover
- Rain cover for your bag
Don’t bother bringing a poncho, as all the various attractions you see will hand them out for free.
So many facts! Thank you! I will be returned to this super supportive article when we idea our family trip to the Falls.