THINGS TO DO IN
  NIAGARA FALLS

Things To Do In Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

Rochester is located about 90 minutes east of Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls in western New York's Finger Lakes region. This mid-sized American city offers a more relaxed pace with tree-lined neighborhoods and historic architecture. The distance and different regional character make Rochester ideal for those seeking a quieter alternative to larger metropolitan areas.

Fun & Entertainment

Niagara Falls offers world-class family entertainment beyond the natural wonder, with attractions ranging from thrilling theme parks to interactive experiences. The area combines the excitement of modern amusement facilities with unique entertainment options that take advantage of the region's spectacular setting. Families staying at Great Wolf Lodge Niagara can easily access both indoor and seasonal outdoor entertainment options throughout the year.

1. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Niagara

Great Wolf Lodge Niagara features Canada's largest indoor water park, providing year-round aquatic excitement regardless of weather conditions. The massive climate-controlled facility offers thrilling water slides, a lazy river, wave pool, and dedicated splash areas designed for different age groups from toddlers to teenagers.
Beyond the water attractions, the resort provides additional family entertainment including MagiQuest interactive adventure game, mini golf, arcade facilities, and themed dining experiences. The lodge's location in Niagara Falls, Ontario puts families just minutes from the falls themselves while offering a complete entertainment destination under one roof.
With luxury-themed suites and comprehensive amenities, Great Wolf Lodge serves as both accommodation and primary attraction for families visiting the Niagara region.

2. Downtown Clifton Hill

Though Niagara Falls remains its standout attraction, Clifton Hill offers tons of other things to do! The city center offers a number of resort hotels, themed restaurants, shops, nightclubs and more! Take a walk down the promenade and you’ll mind miniature golf, a giant ferris wheel as well as a haunted house and wax museum.

3. Fallsview Casino

While you won’t find any views of Niagara Falls here, you will have plenty more to entertain yourself with! Welcome back to the Canadian side where you can enjoy an impressive 200,000 feet of gaming action at the Fallsview Casino. Explore the slots, table games and more as you make your way across the floor. The Fallsview Casino also hosts events and tournaments so make sure to check out their events calendar before your visit!

4. Niagara Falls Speedway

The kids are sure to have a blast at this next popular destination! The Niagara Falls Speedway sprawls out over four acres and features a four-story roller coaster along with the largest elevated go-kart track in North America! Remember, height restrictions apply so make sure your little ones are able to ride before getting in line!

5. Ripley's Belive It or Not! Odditorium

EXPLORE THE WEIRD! Discover the strange, the shocking, and beautiful at Ripley's Believe It or Not! in Niagara Falls. Enjoy some eye-popping exhibits where you can pose with the world’s tallest man, lose yourself in some mind-boggling visual illusions, and even see a Shrunken Head! The array of weird will leave you awe-struck. You've found your one-stop family fun in Canada!

6. Skylon Tower and Revolving Dining Room

Talk about enjoying the view! Skylon Tower is probably the most famous restaurant in Niagara Falls. It offers not one but two levels of fine dining, both standing 775 feet above Niagara Falls! Enjoy a high-end experience at Skylon Tower in the Revolving Dining Room Restaurant, which silently rotates 360 degrees every hour, giving diners a constantly changing vantage point. Skylon Tower also features a more casual family dining experience at the Summit Suite Buffet Dining Room. Head over to the official site to check out the menu!

Outdoor Attractions

The Niagara region's outdoor attractions showcase the raw power and beauty of one of the world's most famous natural wonders. Beyond the iconic falls themselves, families can explore scenic hiking trails, thrilling zipline adventures, and boat tours that bring you directly into the mist of the cascading waters. The area's parks and recreation areas provide year-round outdoor activities, from summer festivals and outdoor concerts to winter illumination displays that transform the falls into a magical wonderland.

1. Hornblower Niagara Cruise

Hailed as "Canada’s Most Memorable Experience," Hornblower Niagara Cruises allows visitors to explore the Niagara Falls on a state-of-the-art catamaran or a private passenger Hornblower Guardian jet boat. You can sign up for a number of different tours of Niagara Falls. Get some sun during a day trip excursion or head out after dark for a Falls Fireworks Cruise. This is one sightseeing adventure you won’t want to miss!

2. Niagara SkyWheel

Experience a ferris wheel ride like no other with the Niagara SkyWheel! Located in the heart of Clifton Hill, the 175-foot attraction provides riders with panoramic views of Niagara Falls, including the Niagara River, Niagara Parks, Horseshoe Falls and American Falls (located across the border in New York). Remember, the Niagara SkyWheel contains climate controlled gondolas equipped with heating and air conditioning to give guests the absolute best experience, all year long.

3. Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory

You’ll find the famous butterfly conservatory located on the grounds of the Niagara Park Botanical Gardens. There, visitors can tour tropical vegetation, trickling waterfalls and over 2,000 vibrantly colored butterflies! The self-guided tour begins with an informative video presentation where visitors will be introduced to the 45 different species of butterflies housed within the butterfly conservatory. Visitors are also encouraged to explore the rest of the park, which features over 99 acres of beautifully maintained botanical gardens!

4. Whirlpool Aero Car

The Whirlpool Aero Car was originally designed by renowned Spanish engineer Leonardo Torres Quevedo back in 1916. Still functioning today, the antique cable car ride provides tours of the Niagara Gorge and offers stunning views of the swirling Niagara Whirlpool and the Class 6 whitewater rapids of the Niagara River. Though the Whirlpool Aero Car travels between two points of the Canadian shore, riders will actually cross the international border line between Canada and the United States a total of four times each trip due to the way the river elbows.

5. Journey Behind the Falls

Journey Behind the Falls offers visitors a year-round opportunity to see the Niagara Falls from below and from behind. Visitors will descend 125 feet by elevator before accessing two outdoor observation decks and two portals located directly behind the falls. Tours typically take around 30 to 45 minutes. Take in up to one-fifth of the world’s fresh water as it crashes down to the basin below!

6. Queen Victoria Park

This destination is located in the center of the Niagara Parks, along the Niagara Gorge and Niagara River, and contains a beautiful collection of unique native and international plants within its botanical gardens. Travelers will also find a rock garden, hanging baskets, a Hybrid tea rose garden as well as spectacular views of both the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

7. Niagara Zipline

Get ready for another spectacular view of the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls! The Niagara Zipline is stationed at the Niagara Park's Commission’s Grand View Marketplace and sends visitors on an unforgettable journey over Niagara Falls. The ride includes four high-speed, side-by-side lines that will descend a total of 2,200 feet. You can also explore the Wildplay’s Whirlpool Adventure Course. The three self-paced courses include dozens of climbing, ziplining, jumping, and swinging obstacle games.

8. Niagara Falls Light Show

Of course, you can go through the list of Niagara Falls attractions without mentioning the famous area light show! Take the kids to see this free Ontario attraction. Head over to the Niagara Falls State Park around dusk to see hundreds of LED lights illuminate the Niagara Gorge. If you happen to be visiting during a holiday, you’ll notice the area decorated in custom colors designed to fit the occasion!

9. Glen Nature Reserve

Ready for some dry land fun? Take the family for a visit to the Glen Nature Reserve. Located deep in the Niagara Gorge, the nature reserve features over two miles of rugged paths that wind through the Carolinian Forest, past prehistoric geological formations, wild flora and fauna. The Niagara Glen also overlooks the rapid waters of the Niagara River and the amazing Niagara River Whirlpool. Don’t worry about navigating this one alone, guided tours are available!

10. Visit the Floral Clock

Located along the Niagara Parkway, this fully-functioning natural clock was created with up to 16,000 carpet bedding plants which are changed twice a year. Thanks to the Niagara Parks horticulture staff, the planted face remains well maintained. The mechanism inside of it is kept working by the Ontario Power Generation. The tower at the back of the clock contains Westminster chimes that ring each quarter hour.

Wineries

The Niagara Peninsula is renowned as one of Canada's premier wine regions, with over 100 wineries producing world-class vintages in the unique microclimate created by Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment. Many family-friendly wineries offer tours, tastings, and beautiful vineyard settings perfect for scenic drives and photography. The region's wine route provides an excellent day trip opportunity, with many estates featuring restaurants, seasonal events, and educational experiences about viticulture in this internationally recognized wine-growing region.

1. Tour the Niagara Wine Region

The Niagara Peninsula is one of the most acclaimed grape-growing and winemaking regions in Ontario. The area doesn’t sprawl out over too much land, so it’s possible to visit four or five in one day! If you don’t feel like driving, there are companies that offer wine tours and packages. A few favorites include Crush on Niagara Wine Tours, Grape Escape Wine Tours, and Niagara Vintage Wine Tours. Some of the most talked about wineries in the region include Cave Spring Cellars, Vineland Estates Winery and Henry of Pelham Family Estate.

2. Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery

Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery sits nestled in a stunning natural ravine setting, offering organic and biodynamic wines produced using sustainable farming practices. The family-owned winery provides guided tours through their unique underground cellars and vineyard walks that showcase their commitment to environmental stewardship and exceptional wine craftsmanship.

3. Château des Charmes

Château des Charmes stands as one of Niagara's pioneering wineries, established in 1978 and renowned for producing award-winning wines from estate-grown grapes. The winery offers comprehensive tours, tastings, and seasonal events in their elegant tasting room, providing visitors with insights into traditional winemaking techniques and the region's viticultural history.

Historical Places

Niagara Falls and the surrounding region hold significant historical importance, from Indigenous heritage sites to key locations in the War of 1812 and early industrial development. Historic sites like Old Fort Niagara, Laura Secord Homestead, and various museums tell the story of the area's role in North American history and the development of tourism around the falls. These attractions provide educational experiences that help families understand the cultural and historical significance of this natural wonder beyond its tourist appeal.

1. Niagara-on-the-lake

Take a day trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake! The 19th century town is situated on the edge of Lake Ontario and offers spectacular views of Toronto in a quaint, natural setting. The town is filled with restaurants, wineries, boutiques and its famous Shaw Festival, which celebrates the work of George Bernard Shaw through a series of plays performed from April to November.

2. Fort George National Historic Site

George National Historic Site preserves a crucial War of 1812 battlefield where British and American forces clashed for control of the Niagara frontier, offering visitors guided tours through reconstructed buildings and military demonstrations. The historic site provides educational programs that bring to life the experiences of soldiers and civilians during this pivotal conflict, featuring authentic period costumes, musket firing demonstrations, and interactive exhibits that illuminate early 19th-century military life.

Museums

The Niagara region features diverse museums that explore everything from natural history and geology to local heritage and the development of the falls as a tourist destination. Interactive exhibits help visitors understand the science behind the waterfalls, the daredevils who challenged them, and the engineering marvels that harness their power. Family-friendly museums throughout the area offer hands-on learning experiences that complement outdoor adventures with educational indoor activities perfect for any weather.

1. Louis Tussaud's Waxworks

TAKE A SELFIE! Who said it was impossible to meet your favorite celebrity? With over 200 life-like wax figures, you’ll be able to strike a pose with your favorite superstar. Actors? Check! Musicians? Check! Heroes? Check! Take a #selfie as you mingle your way through Louis Tussaud's WaxWorks with your favorite star! From horror villains to yes, even Hollywood’s elite, there’s someone for everyone in Niagara Falls.

2. Niagara Falls History Museum

The Niagara Falls History Museum showcases the region's development from Indigenous settlement through its transformation into a world-renowned tourist destination. Interactive exhibits explore the area's geological formation, daredevil heritage, and the engineering marvels that harness the falls' power.

3. Movieland Wax Museum Of The Stars

Movieland Wax Museum features lifelike wax figures of Hollywood celebrities, movie characters, and pop culture icons in themed displays. The family-friendly attraction offers photo opportunities with famous figures and provides entertainment for visitors of all ages.

4. Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center

The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center tells the powerful story of freedom seekers who crossed into Canada via the Underground Railroad. The museum features multimedia exhibits and personal stories that illuminate this crucial chapter in North American history and the quest for freedom.

Things To Do In Niagara Falls, New York, USA

Niagara Falls, New York provides a different perspective on the natural wonder, located just across the Rainbow Bridge from Great Wolf Lodge Niagara. The American side offers closer access to the base of the falls and features the historic Niagara Falls State Park. This quieter side provides a more natural, park-like environment with hiking trails and scenic overlooks.

1. Maid of the Mist

You’ll have to hop over to the New York side of the falls for this next activity, but it’s well worth it. The Maid of the Mist is known as “America’s most iconic boat ride since 1846.” It is the only tour boat fleet whose captains have safely navigated the mighty waters of the Niagara Gorge for over 100 years and offers both Canadian side and half day boat tours. When aboard the Maid of the Mist, riders will experience an unforgettable encounter with 600,000 gallons of water cascading down from above. Remember, peak season lasts from May to September so plan accordingly!

2. Niagara Falls Observation Tower

Ready for some more sightseeing? Head over to the observation deck at the Niagara Falls State Park for some unforgettable views! Accessible only by elevator, the observation deck extends over the Niagara Gorge for an unobstructed look at Niagara Falls and the raging whitewater below. The deck also provides access to the base of the gorge and serves as the boarding site for the Maid of the Mist boat tours. For a “multi-sensory” view of the American Falls, visitors are encouraged to go to the base of the gorge and climb a series of stairs to the Crow’s nest, where they receive an impressive spray coming off the falls.

3. Cave of the Winds

The name “Cave of the Winds” refers to an old rock overhang that allowed people to stand under Niagara Falls. Unfortunately, the cave collapsed in the early 1900's, though the name endures. Today, the attraction calls for an elevator down into the Niagara Gorge. There, visitors will embark on guided tours over a series of wooden walkways to the famous “Hurricane Deck.” The railing stands a mere 20 feet from the rushing waters of Bridal Veil Falls. Travelers will get to enjoy the sights, receive a generous spray from the falls and witness one of the fall’s famous rainbows.

4. Niagara Falls State Park

Niagara Falls State Park, established in 1885 as America's oldest state park, provides visitors with close-up access to the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls from the New York side. The park features scenic walking trails, observation decks, and the famous Cave of the Winds experience that brings guests within feet of the thundering cascade.

5. Nikola Tesla Monument

The Nikola Tesla Monument honors the brilliant inventor whose alternating current system made it possible to harness the power of Niagara Falls for electricity generation. Located on Goat Island, the monument commemorates Tesla's revolutionary contributions to electrical engineering and his connection to the world's first major hydroelectric power development at Niagara Falls.

Things To Do In St. Catharines, Ontario

St. Catharines sits approximately 20 minutes from Great Wolf Lodge in the heart of Ontario's wine country. Known as the "Garden City," this area features rolling vineyards, the historic Welland Canal, and a quieter, more residential atmosphere. The region offers beautiful countryside scenery and serves as a gateway to the broader Niagara Peninsula.

1. St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre

The St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre showcases the engineering marvel of the Welland Canal system that connects Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits about the canal's construction and watch massive ships navigate through the historic locks.

2. Happy Rolph's Animal Farm

Happy Rolph's Animal Farm offers hands-on experiences with farm animals including goats, sheep, ponies, and rabbits in a family-friendly setting. The seasonal attraction provides educational programs and interactive feeding opportunities that delight children and teach them about rural life.

3. Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach provides a peaceful lakefront escape along Lake Ontario with sandy shores and scenic walking paths. The beach area offers picnic facilities, playground equipment, and beautiful sunset views over the water.

Things To Do In Buffalo, NY

Buffalo lies approximately 30 minutes south of Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls Canada, offering an authentic American urban experience. This revitalized city features a historic downtown core, vibrant waterfront district, and distinctly American cultural atmosphere. Buffalo provides urban amenities and attractions in a more affordable, family-friendly metropolitan setting.

1. Canalside

Canalside transforms Buffalo's waterfront into a vibrant entertainment district with seasonal concerts, festivals, and outdoor activities. The development features ice skating in winter, kayak rentals in summer, and year-round dining and shopping options along the historic Erie Canal.

2. Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens houses exotic plants from around the world within stunning Victorian-era glass conservatories. The facility features tropical rainforest environments, desert landscapes, and seasonal flower displays that provide year-round natural beauty.

3. The Buffalo Zoo

The Buffalo Zoo houses over 1,000 animals representing species from around the globe in naturalistic habitats and educational exhibits. The zoo features popular attractions like the Arctic Edge with polar bears and the Rainforest Falls with gorillas and other primates.

Things To Do In Toronto, Canada

Toronto sits approximately 90 minutes from Great Wolf Lodge Ontario, making it Canada's largest metropolitan area accessible for day trips. This cosmopolitan city offers a distinctly international atmosphere with diverse neighborhoods and world-class urban amenities. The distance makes Toronto better suited for dedicated visits or longer stays in the Niagara region.

1. CN Tower

The CN Tower stands as Toronto's iconic landmark and one of the world's tallest freestanding structures, offering breathtaking panoramic views from its observation decks. Visitors can experience the EdgeWalk outdoor adventure or dine in the revolving restaurant while taking in spectacular city and lake views.

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada features over 20,000 aquatic animals in immersive exhibits including a 96-meter underwater tunnel through Dangerous Lagoon. The downtown Toronto attraction offers interactive touch tanks, daily dive shows, and educational programs for all ages.

3. Scotiabank Arena

Scotiabank Arena serves as home to the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors, hosting professional hockey and basketball games in the heart of downtown Toronto. The multi-purpose venue also features major concerts, entertainment events, and dining options throughout the year.

Things To Do In Rochester, NY

Rochester is located about 90 minutes east of Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls in western New York's Finger Lakes region. This mid-sized American city offers a more relaxed pace with tree-lined neighborhoods and historic architecture. The distance and different regional character make Rochester ideal for those seeking a quieter alternative to larger metropolitan areas.

1. The Strong National Museum of Play

The Strong National Museum of Play celebrates the cultural significance of play through interactive exhibits, vintage toys, and hands-on experiences. The Rochester museum features the National Toy Hall of Fame, video game history exhibits, and immersive play environments for children and families.

2. Seneca Park Zoo

Seneca Park Zoo houses over 300 animals in naturalistic habitats including African elephants, Siberian tigers, and endangered species conservation programs. The Rochester zoo emphasizes education and conservation while providing engaging animal encounters and seasonal programs.

3. Seabreeze Amusement Park

Scotiabank Seabreeze Amusement Park offers classic amusement rides, water attractions, and family entertainment along the shores of Lake Ontario. This historic Rochester park features roller coasters, a water park section, and traditional carnival games in a nostalgic lakefront setting.

Our Niagara Falls location offers specialty suites able to accommodate families of all sizes. You'll feel like you're camping out in the Northern Woods in no time! Don't worry about missing out if you can't make the trip. We can bring the Great Wolf experience to you!

Check out our blog for tons of fun activities to do at home with the family.