One day in Niagara
One Day in Niagara
Niagara Falls is an exciting, year-round destination with no shortage of things to do. Aside from the obvious draw that attracts visitors from around the world, you’ll find authentic attractions, fascinating heritage sites, pristine natural spaces and locally sourced culinary experiences. It can be a lot to take in, especially if you’re short on time!
While a longer stay is ideal, a short visit to Niagara Falls can still be unforgettable. Here is a suggested itinerary to experience the very best of Niagara Falls in one day.
8:00 AM - Start with the best part
Let’s get right to the point. You’re here to see Niagara Falls, so what better place to start your day than at the brink of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls? This breathtaking spot features a pedestrian promenade next to the historic Table Rock Centre. Grab a coffee and step out into what will surely be the most memorable moment of your trip. The sight, sound, smell and feel of Niagara Falls is unforgettable.
9:00 AM - Now journey below
Now that you’ve seen the brink of the falls, how about a trip to the base? Just inside Table Rock Centre, Journey Behind the Falls takes you down into the bedrock next to the Horseshoe Falls. You’ll descend 125 feet and explore 130-year-old tunnels with openings behind crashing sheets of water. On the lower observation deck, you’ll see up to 2,800 cubic metres of water plunge down from 13 storeys above you. If you thought the falls were loud from above, wait until you’re standing beneath them!
11:00 AM - Feel the charge of the Niagara Parks Power Station
Discover Niagara’s newest landmark attraction, the Niagara Parks Power Station! Step inside this once-dormant building for an in-depth look inside the first major hydropower plant on the Canadian side of the Niagara River. From the most towering turbine to the tiniest detail, uncover fascinating stories hiding within this historic building. Explore this engineering marvel on your own, or hear about its fascinating story as told by one of our expert guides.
You don’t want to miss this must-see attraction named one of the Best New Things to See and Do in Canada by the Globe and Mail.
1:00 PM – Lunch at Table Rock Market
There’s no shortage of options for places to eat at Niagara Parks. What’s more, you’ll find something for every budget. Looking to grab something quick and casual? Take a break from exploring Niagara Parks to recharge with delicious and convenient culinary delights just steps from the bring of the Horseshoe Falls at the all-new Table Rock Market, inside Table Rock Centre. There, you’ll find a selection of café and deli favourites, mouthwatering comfort foods, fresh sushi and much more! Table Rock Market offers something for everyone.
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Discover the story of Niagara Parks and all of the must-see Canadian experiences found along its 56-kilometre parkway with our digital visitor guide!
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3:30 PM – Enjoy special moments in nature
You won’t want to miss an opportunity to step inside one of the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories in North America! At the Butterfly Conservatory, you can explore stunning tropical gardens while admiring the beauty of over 2,000 vibrantly coloured butterflies fluttering freely around you. Meander 180 metres of winding pathways filled with lush vegetation and trickling waterfalls.
Then, spend a mindful moment outdoors in the spectacular Botanical Gardens where you’ll find 99 acres of meticulously maintained gardens, including Niagara Parks’ world-famous rose garden featuring over 2,400 roses.
5:00 PM - At the river’s edge
It’s ancient history, but years ago the falls weren’t where they stand today. Take a walk along a boardwalk next to some of North America’s fastest rapids at White Water Walk. This quarter-mile boardwalk offers incredible views of the Niagara River’s Class 6 whitewater rapids and an opportunity to learn more about the unique geological history of the Niagara Gorge. Get an up-close and personal view of nature’s power and feel the thrill of being at the river’s edge!
This best-kept-secret is a short drive or moderate walk north from the core of Niagara Parks. Get there on the hop-on, hop-off WEGO bus system or take your own car (parking is free with admission to the attraction). There are also racks nearby if you’re exploring Niagara by bike.
6:00 PM - Dinner with a view
Finish off the day in grand style with an incredible meal at Table Rock House Restaurant, the closest you can dine to the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Chef Elbert Wiersema and the Niagara Parks Culinary team are always hard at work designing and preparing locally sourced dishes to try and compete with the view of the falls only a stone’s throw away.
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