15 Family Friendly Attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada
Niagara Falls, Canada is one of the most famous water falls in the world. It is full of great attractions and is a wonderful option for family vacations. Check out these 15 great family friendly attractions for your family!
- The Falls
It goes without saying that the number one attraction in Niagara Falls, Canada is the falls. Every member of your family will marvel at the thundering sounds of the water rushing over the falls. You can walk along the Niagara Parkway, getting up close to the top of the Horseshoe Falls and taking in stunning views of the American Falls across the river. The mist spraying off of the Horseshoe Falls is a great way to cool down on a hot day. For ideas on how to get up close and personal falls click here.
Horseshoe Falls. 2018. 
The American Falls. 2018.
2. Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill is a fun filled street a short distance from the Falls that offers many great kid friendly attractions, including mini golf, bowling, an arcade, an upside down house, a maze, Ripley’s Believe it or Not, and the Hollywood Wax Museum. There is something here for everyone…my daughter had a blast.
3. The Floral Clock
Be sure to take the short drive from the Falls to the Niagara Falls floral clock, a flower bed in the shape of a clock featuring the words Niagara Parks. It is a beauty to see and at most times does not seem to be overly crowded. Another plus-this is a free attraction!
4-The Bird Kingdom
Located along the Niagara Parkway a short distance from the falls is the Bird Kingdom, the largest free flying aviary in the world. The Bird Kingdom features many different species of parrots and other exotic animals. You will have a hands on experience. This is a great attraction for the whole family, especially if you have animal lovers in the bunch! Tickets are required for this attraction and can be pre-purchased online for a discount. On-line tickets are $15.95 for adults and $11.95 for children.
5-Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory
The Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory was a highlight from our recent trip. Enter the conservatory and you are met with array of different butterfly species. Be sure to watch your step…you don’t want to step on any of these critters and don’t be surprised if a butterfly makes you its landing spot! This attraction is $16 for adults and $10 for children.
6-Fallsview Indoor Waterpark and Arcade
The Fallsview Indoor Water Park is a great option to escape the heat on a summer day and enjoy some splashes. The waterpark is located near Clifton Hill, just a few minutes from the falls. There is also an arcade in the building that the kids will love. Right next door is the Rainforest Café, a great option for lunch or dinner with animals that come to life.
7-Journey Behind the Falls
Journey Behind the Falls is a great experience for the whole family. Take an elevator ride down 125 ft. to underground tunnels that take you just below and behind the horseshoe falls. This journey will show you just how mighty the falls are and the kids will enjoy wearing the provided ponchos and getting splashed by the falls. Admission tickets are $22 for adults and $14 for children.,
8-Skylon Tower
Skylon Tower is a great way to get views of the falls from above. The base of the tower also features an arcade that the kids will be sure to enjoy. The tower offers 360 views of the falls and the city. Also located inside the tower at the observation levels are a 360 rotating restaurant and stationary restaurant that will give you great views of the falls.
Skylon Tower from Ground Level 
Skylon Tower Observation level
9-Whirlpool Aero Car
Take a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car, which is suspended 200ft. above, will take you over the Niagara Whirlpool. For younger children this can be quite the thrilling experience and is a great way to see the whirlpool. Admission tickets are $16 for adults and $10.25 for children.
10-Visit the Niagara Botanical Gardens
Get away from the crowds at the falls and take the approximately 20 min. drive to the Niagara Botanical Gardens where you can walk the 99 acre garden taking in the beautiful flowers and trees. It is a quiet, peaceful way to spend a couple hours. There is also an option for a horse drawn carriage ride around the gardens to make your little girl feel like a princess.
11-Visit the Dufferin Islands Park
Dufferin Islands Park is another great way to escape the crowds of the falls and visit a location that is well known to the locals. Dufferin Island Park is made up of several small islands that are connected by bridges and walk ways. Pack a lunch and enjoy the secluded, quiet area with great views.
12-Visit the Queen Victoria Park
Located on the other side of the Niagara Parkway from the falls is Queen Victoria Park. Spend some time walking the park, enjoying the views of the falls and the numerous gardens, and have a picnic lunch while the kids run and play. This is a great, free attraction for the family to enjoy.
13-Visit Old Fort Erie
Take the approx. 24km ride from Niagara Falls to Old Fort Erie at the end of the Niagara River. Here you can explore the grounds of the famous fort that played a role in the American Revolution and served as an entrance point into Canada as part of the Underground Railroad. Here the kids can spread their legs and run while taking in some history lessons.
14-Take a Hornblower Cruise
Hop on a boat and cruise past the American falls and up to the foot of the Horseshoe falls with Hornblower Cruises, Canada’s version of the Maid of the Mist. This cruise is something that the whole family can enjoy, from toddlers to adults. If you are able there is a night time fireworks cruise option that will take you out under the falls at night where you can admire the illumination of the falls and end the evening with a fireworks show over the falls. For more information on Hornblower Niagara Cruises click here.
15-Visit the Niagara Glen Nature Area
The Niagara Glen Nature Area is located nearby the Whirlpool Aero Car and is another great quiet, secluded adventure. The nature area is comprised of 4km of walking trails with overlooks of the whirlpool and glen. As you walk the trails you will come into contact with many natural rock formations. The trails are free of charge, but be aware that you may have to pay for parking. Be sure to bring proper footwear, it is a hike. Due to the steepness of the climb, it may not be appropriate for younger children.
All images are original and copyrighted. © Navigation Junkie, 2019.
About Me
I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!
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What an excellent list. I’ve always thought of going to Niagara Falls as just that. who knew there were so many other things to do as well?
Yes, the Canadian side offers so many great things to do, especially if traveling with children! A great destination for sure!