Falling for Fun & Food in Niagara Falls, Canada
Published September 26th, 2024
Photography by Jay Kana
A road trip adventure to Niagara Falls, Canada starts with the 2025 MINI Countryman
On the outskirts of the Greater Toronto Area and quite close for a day/weekend trip, Canada’s Niagara Falls has so much to offer for fun with families, friends of even on your own. Get up close with the rushing rapids and the world-famous Falls from above and below, slow down with serene attractions and rediscover this wondrous part of Canada.
Here’s your list of what to do, where to eat and where to stay in Niagara Falls.
WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA?
Whirlpool Aero Car
For vivid views of the majestic Niagara Gorge and Class 6 whitewater rapids, the Whirlpool Aero Car is your key to opening panoramic views at over 200 feet high. The one-ish km round trip takes approximately 10 minutes and you’ll switch sides of the aerial cable car halfway through for balanced views.
White Water Walk
Descending 230 feet in an elevator and an a subsequent short walk through a tunnel, you’re greeted by the base of the Niagara Gorge and it’s rushing rapids, some of the strongest in North America.
Stroll the 1,000 foot long boardwalk with the rapids running alongside. There are plenty of information panels, plus two viewing platforms for a closer look.
The Tunnel at the Niagara Parks Power Station
Another elevator ride here, this one’s 180 feet down bringing you to the start of a 2,200 ft (0.67 km) tunnel featuring ambient lighting at night. Soak in the rich history as you stroll toward the tunnels end, which brings you to a spectacular sight; a nearly ground-level view of the Falls.
Look up and to the left at night to see the brilliant beams of light collide with the rushing water.
Niagara Parks Power Station
Blending history with the modern world, the power station is full charged with excitement, sights and sounds. Between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. continuously, “Currents,” an electrifying sound and light show occurs that’s educational and entertaining.
Be sure to visit The Tunnel both by night and day for the best of both views.
There’s also a Tesla Coil that can play music!
Enjoy a guided or self-guided bilingual audio tour to fully plug-in to its rich history.
Journey Behind The Falls
Another elevator descent, this time 125 feet, along with a short walk, brings you to the main viewing area. There’s an upper and lower deck for spectacular views of the Falls. Rain ponchos are provided as you’ll almost certainly get wet, which is a terrific trade-off for what you’ll see.
Take the tunnel to your right as you walk in for two other viewing areas showing the water’s strength.
Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory & Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
The Butterfly Conservatory houses nearly 600 feet of paths to appreciate and admire the over 2,000 butterflies, complete with waterfalls, feeding areas and if you’re fortunate, one might land on you. The 11,000 square foot facility is the largest of its kind in North America and is impressively a teaching facility for the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture.
99 acres, more than 80,000 grown on-site and serene setting comes to you at the Botanical Gardens. Take your time exploring the grounds and revel in its natural beauty and elegance.
The Floral Showhouse
Boasting up to 20,000 annually grown plants, enjoy both the indoor and outdoor areas, adorned with
fantastic floral displays. Orchids, tropical plants, palms and many more varieties await you and your camera.
WHAT ARE THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA?
Table Rock Bistro
This new addition the dining scene blends astounding outdoor views from the seasonal patio, upscale, casual dining and a smart menu selection. Using a wide array of local ingredients, this FeastON certified menu is piled high with good eats, paired with the Falls as a backdrop.
They also feature over 100 local producers of VQA wines, spirits, ciders and beers.
Table Rock House
Literally across the hall from the Table Rock Bistro is the famous Table Rock House, offering the closest view of the Falls as you dine, courtesy of floor to ceiling windows. Also heavily invested in utilizing local ingredients and suppliers, the menu selections include steak, lobster and vegetarian options, complete with delicious desserts.
Queen Victoria Place
Supporting and using local carries on here, as do the views of the Falls from their patio. Chef Matt Hemingsen is as local as you can get, being born, educated and trained in Niagara, and is a natural fit here.
There’s enough variety in the menu to be approachable without overwhelming, with a variety of meat and vegetarian dishes.
WHAT IS THE BEST HOTEL IN NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA?
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites
Recharge, rejuvenate and relax at the Hilton Niagara Falls and get a room facing the Falls because, well, the views! Plus, you’ll enjoy the nightly fireworks display from the comfort of your room between Victoria Day and Thanksgiving.
Comfortable beds, several amenities, including a restaurant on the 33rd floor, in addition to the other dining options, all make this centrally located hotel an ideal choice.
IS THE 2025 MINI COUNTRYMAN A GOOD CAR FOR ROAD TRIPS?
The chariot I chose for this adventure was the 2025 MINI Countryman.
All-new for 2025, MINI’s largest offering ever goes heavy on the tech-side by using but a single, circular 9.4-inch OLED infotainment screen. Gone is the traditional instrument cluster and replaced with a head-up display.
Up front, the cabin is spacious and comfortable for the driver and passenger, with rear seat space being generous. Cargo space is spacious at 450 litres, with just enough space for four carry-on bags for a weekend away.
Familiar styling with modern tweaks still retain the MINI’s trademark style, and the 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque come through a 2.0 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing ample power and a smooth ride in both urban and rural settings.
Click here for a full review of this premium, family-friendly crossover.
As you use this guide to plan your Niagara Falls adventure, I highly recommend picking up a Niagara Falls Adventure Pass, which can save you up to 57% in total across attractions, transportation, culinary locations and gift shops.
niagaraparks.com