Things to Do in Niagara Falls

One of the best things to do at Niagara falls NY is to visit the Three Sisters Island, located off the Goat Island here. This group of islands actually comprises four smaller islands, out of which, three were named after the daughters of General Parkhurst Whitney. The islands are accessible through footbridges near the Terrapin Point Viewing Area and are home to lush foliage. You can also soak in panoramic views of the Upper Falls from the Three Sisters Island.

When looking for things to do in Niagara falls New York, take a walk along the Rainbow Bridge, which connects the falls in New York to the ones in Canada. It is from this bridge where you can witness some of the most spectacular views of both the Niagara Falls as well as the Niagara River, whilst also catching sights of beautiful rainbows that form over it, thereby giving the bridge its name. During your walk on the Rainbow Bridge, you can also literally enter the Canadian borders.

When you are wondering what to do in Niagara falls NY, you must explore the Old Fort Niagara, which is one of the most significant forts in America since the 18th century. The Old Fort was constructed to maintain the control of any access to the Great Lakes during the times of the colonial wars and is currently home to a wide array of artefacts from the times gone by. It is also a great place to witness scenic views of the Niagara River.

Another one of the top Niagara falls NY things to do is to spend some time at the Skylon Tower, located on the opposite side of the gorge. This soaring tower ranks as one of the most iconic man-made structures in the area and has a height of 520 feet. Upon visiting the tower, you can ride the glass elevators here, get to the top in just 57 seconds, and then soak in amazing bird’s eye views of Niagara Falls.

Going on the White Water Walk is among the most perfect things to do in Niagara falls NY, especially if you have a fear of heights. The White Water Walk is a gorgeous trail that passes right along the gushing rapids of the Niagara River, located a short drive to the river from the Rainbow Bridge. This boardwalk trail offers you a chance to witness some of the most ferocious stretches of water up close, as the river comes out from the Great Gorge.

One of the best things to do in Niagara falls New York with your family is to spend the day at the Aquarium of Niagara. Home to several hundreds of different marine wildlife, as well as fishes, birds and reptiles, this aquarium is also a great place to witness exotic wildlife species like sharks, California seal lions, Peruvian penguins, lionfish, piranhas and sea snails, along with adorable penguins. You can also enjoy several interesting shows here, from penguin feeding and harbour seal presentations to a sea lion show and other live demonstrations.

Those confused about what to do in Niagara falls NY for some relaxation must head to the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino, which is the largest hotel in the state outside of Manhattan. Known mostly for its huge glass tower block, which is located just a few steps from the falls, this resort also boasts numerous modern and state-of-the-art amenities, including a spa, luxury suites as well as a top-notch casino, complete with more than 2500 slot machines and table games.

Ranked amongst the most popular Niagara falls NY things to do is to spend some time unwinding at Clifton Hill, which is known for being one of the most laid back and tranquil places near the otherwise bustling falls area. You can find a lot of other places of interest here, from arcades and quaint eateries to several options for nightlife as well as entertainment, including the Niagara SkyWheel, the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum and several miniature golf courses, among other things.

You must not miss out on indulging in a Whirlpool Jet Boat tour, which is one of the best things to do at Niagara falls NY. This is an experience of a kind, wherein you are seated in a boat that takes you through the fierce rapids of the Niagara River, amidst the rough waves, whirlpools and even the different smaller waterfalls, thereby leaving you completely soaked in water. This boat tour is also one of the best experiences to take part in, especially if you wish to feel the real force of the Niagara River.

Ziplining all the way to the Falls from the American side to its Canadian counterpart is definitely one of the most adventurous Niagara falls NY things to do. This thrilling ride is unlike anything you will ever experience, as you shoot all the way down the 2200 feet long zipline at a speed of more than 40 miles per hour, above the foaming Niagara Falls. The ziplining adventure begins from the base of the Horseshoe Falls and takes you past the Angel Falls as well, thereby offering phenomenal views of this amazing natural wonder.

Exploring the Fashion Outlets is amongst the top things to do at Niagara falls NY, as it offers you amazing respite from the bustling crowds near the waterfall. This shopping and dining spot near Niagara Falls is home to more than 120 stores, shops, as well as cafes and restaurants, and is also the biggest place to shop in the city. It is here where you can shop for a wide array of things, from clothes, shoes and accessories, to items of personal care, technology, sportswear and more.

Located directly opposite the zipline of the falls is the Niagara Falls Observation Tower, which is also one of the most popular spots to marvel at the falls. Climbing the tower to enjoy unparalleled views of the river and the falls ranks among the most favourable things to do at Niagara falls NY. Also known as the Prospect Point Observation Tower, this tower has a height of 282 feet, and is a great place to capture views of Niagara Falls with your camera lens.

Located just at the foot of the American Falls is the entrance to the Cave of the Winds, and exploring the same is one of the best adventure things to do at Niagara falls NY. The Cave of the Winds is essentially a gorge, located around 175 feet deep into the mountains. Before entering the cave, visitors are required to wear ponchos and souvenir sandals, since this place always has stormy conditions. As you reach the Cave of the Winds, you can also stand just a few feet away from the Bridal Veil Falls.

Known to be the longest-running boat tour to Niagara Falls, you must definitely enjoy the Maid of the Mist boat tour during your visit here. Operating since 1846, this boat tour begins from the base of the Observation Tower, and sails all the way from the river into the Niagara Gorge. It is a half an hour tour, which takes you to both the American as well as the Horseshoe Falls, whilst also spraying everyone with the cold waters of the falls.

You cannot miss out on going on the scenic Niagara Gorge Trail during your visit to Niagara Falls. The trail boasts of several viewpoints and meanders alongside the river as well as the waterfalls, whilst also offering you glimpses into the huge gorge, the rock formations around it, and the fierce whirlpools. The trail begins at the trailhead centre, and sprawls across a length of almost 10 kilometres, before ending at the Prospect point viewpoint which overlooks the falls. The trail is complete with dense woodlands, steep cliffs, and numerous ascents and descents.