Niagara Falls, Ontario
RoadTrip | Day 3-5
Miles: 700+
Introduction
The Second Stop on our Road Trip. Niagara Falls, one of the world's most iconic natural wonders, draws millions of visitors each year with its breathtaking beauty and awe-inspiring power. We stayed on the Ontario, Canada side in order to get a full view of the falls. But the view wasn’t the only incredible time we had here. From a unique stay at the Cadillac Motel's Ghostbuster-themed room to exploring the magnificent falls with a tour and enjoying the vibrant downtown atmosphere which included go-karting, every moment of this trip was filled with excitement!
DAY 3
Niagara Falls Illuminated
We arrived at nightfall at Niagara Falls. Our friends from Amherstburg told us about the light show that occurs and we didn’t want to miss it. It was spectacular as it enhanced the natural beauty of the falls with a stunning array of colorful lights. Typically known as the "Niagara Falls Illumination," this nightly show transforms the falls into an incredible visual experience. We highly recommend watching the light show. This is achievable on the Canadian side, near Queen Victoria Park or along the Niagara Parkway.
the Cadillac Motel
I found this gem while hunting for special places to stay on the RoadTrip. We purposely tried to avoid any kind of “chain lodging.” We wanted to stay in the most unique places we could find and I scoured the internet looking for the right ones. The Cadillac Motel fit right in! It was quirky and fun. Near Downtown Niagara Falls everything was within walking distance. Choosing the Ghostbuster-themed room added an extra element of humor to our trip. The attention to detail and the nostalgic decor were delightful. Each room in this funky motel is modeled after a famous Cadillac. This made our accommodation as memorable as the destination.
DAY 4
The Magnificent Niagara Falls Tour
Journey Behind the Falls
The following day, we embarked on the "Magnificent Niagara Falls Tour," a comprehensive exploration of the natural wonders surrounding the falls. The tour first took us through an underground tunnel, providing a unique perspective of the falls from below. The roar of the water and the mist in the air added to the sensory experience. Descending 125 feet, we had the opportunity to venture into a bedrock tunnel situated directly behind the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. From this vantage point, the powerful river plunges off the brink in a free-fall from over 13 stories high, presenting a breathtaking and singular view. Witnessing one-fifth of the world's freshwater cascade down in front of you makes for an unforgettable memory.
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Whirlpool Rapids Observation Deck
We then encountered the whirlpool, a natural phenomenon created by the powerful forces of the falls. From this unique vantage point of The Whirlpool Rapids Observation Deck, we were able to marvel at the wonder of the Whirlpool class 6 rapids and witness the rushing waters that showcased the awe-inspiring power of the Niagara Falls waterfalls. These whirlpools can reach depths of 125 ft. For those interested in observing the Whirlpool Rapids up close without the daredevilry, the International White Water Walk is a tunnel and boardwalk attraction that offers a safe yet thrilling perspective of the powerful rapids, allowing visitors to experience the intensity of the currents beneath their feet.
Niagara City Cruises
We then went on the incredible cruise to the falls, a timeless adventure that has thrilled visitors for over 150 years. Boarding the state-of-the-art catamaran, we sailed towards the thundering waters at the base of the American Falls and then it skillfully navigated to the basin of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, feeling the mist on our faces and witnessing the grandeur of Niagara Falls up close. The panoramic views and the sheer magnitude of the falls left a permanent impression and wearing a poncho was a necessity as we got extremely close to all the action, getting completely drenched and feeling the power of the falls. As you can hear the excitement in the videos, everyone enjoyed this epic experience.
Throughout history, Niagara Falls has attracted daredevils seeking fame and fortune by going over its thundering cascades. Among the most famous daredevils are Annie Edson Taylor, who became the first person to successfully navigate the falls in a barrel in 1901; Charles Stephens, whose attempt to ride the rapids in 1911 tragically ended in his death; and Bobby Leach, who survived the plunge in 1911 only to meet his end later in life from a slip on an orange peel. These brave individuals, along with many others, have left an indelible mark on the lore and legend of Niagara Falls, showcasing both the allure and peril of this natural wonder.
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Interested in a virtual tour of the Catamaran experience? Silas captured the video below, showcasing the journey up to the point where the phone encountered a bit too much water. What an amazing adventure! Believe it or not, we got even closer to the falls after the filming ended. Incredible!
Speedway Go Karting
After the tour, we strolled through the charming downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. The lively atmosphere and picturesque surroundings made for a delightful afternoon. To add a dash of adrenaline to our trip, we decided to go go-karting at the speedway, providing a thrilling end to our adventure-filled day. The line was long but totally worth it! The track was incredibly fun with its multilayers.
Clifton Hill
Downtown felt like a carnival. Lots of activities, places to explore, restaurants, and great entertainment. I loved exploring it at night with all the lights and commotion. Pop in and out of shops, grab some grub, and wander the streets for a very fun night!
FOR NEXT TIME:
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Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming and picturesque town that exudes old-world charm and elegance. Known for its quaint streets lined with historic buildings, lush gardens, and blooming flowers, this enchanting destination offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Stroll along Queen Street, the town's main thoroughfare, and admire the beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture housing boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Take in the sights and sounds of horse-drawn carriages trotting by, adding to the town's timeless ambiance.
For history buffs, Niagara-on-the-Lake boasts a rich heritage dating back to the War of 1812. Explore historic sites like Fort George, a British military fortification, and the Laura Secord Homestead, where you can learn about the courageous journey of a Canadian heroine.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the town's stunning surroundings, including the Niagara River, lush vineyards, and scenic parks. Take a leisurely bike ride along the Niagara River Recreation Trail or embark on a wine tour to sample the region's world-class wines.
No visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake would be complete without indulging in the culinary delights it has to offer. From farm-to-table restaurants serving seasonal cuisine to cozy pubs pouring locally crafted brews, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a cultural escape, or simply a relaxing retreat, Niagara-on-the-Lake promises an unforgettable experience filled with charm, beauty, and warm hospitality. It's a destination that truly captures the essence of quintessential Ontario living.
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Take a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel for panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. This giant Ferris wheel offers breathtaking sights both day and night.
Conclusion
Our trip to Niagara Falls on the Ontario, Canada side was a spectacular adventure filled with unique experiences and unforgettable moments. From the quirky stay at the Ghostbuster-themed room in the Cadillac Motel to witnessing the falls illuminated at night and exploring the wonders on the "Magnificent Niagara Falls Tour," every aspect of this journey showcased the magic and majesty of Niagara Falls. It's a destination that not only lives up to its reputation but surpasses expectations, leaving visitors with memories that last a lifetime. I think our biggest recommendation is the catamaran ride to the Falls. Getting that close, experiencing getting completely drenched, and the roar of water and laughter was awesome!