Spring, summer, fall, or even winter! There is no bad time to visit Niagara Falls. Whether you’re looking for natural wonders, fun attractions, or just an easy family getaway, Niagara Falls delivers. Living just an hour away, we visit often, and it never gets old. There’s just something magical about hearing the roar of the falls and feeling that cool mist hit your face!
In this 3 day Niagara Falls itinerary, I’m sharing how to make the most of a family trip to Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. It includes our favorite activities, where to stay, and tips to make your trip smooth and memorable.
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Where to Stay in Niagara Falls
There’s no shortage of hotels in Niagara Falls, whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or a hotel with a built-in water park. Here are some of our top family picks:
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview
Free made-to-order breakfast
Two-room suites—perfect for families
Stunning falls views
Often includes vouchers for TGI Fridays & the Fun Zone - Great Wolf Lodge
Indoor water park included
Tons of activities for kids
Ideal if you want a resort-style stay and don’t mind being a short drive from the falls - Sheraton Fallsview Hotel
Located right by Queen Victoria Park
Access to a water park (Fallsview Indoor Waterpark)
Close to dining and entertainment - Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
Mid-range pricing
Free breakfast + indoor pool
Walking distance to Clifton Hill - Ramada by Wyndham Niagara Falls Near the Falls
Budget-friendly
Indoor pool
A bit further from the falls, but good value
Day 1: Start with the Falls
Morning
Kick off your trip with the main attraction, Niagara Falls. There’s nothing quite like seeing the power of the falls up close for the first time. The sheer volume of water is mesmerizing, and on a hot day, the cool mist is a welcome treat!
- Journey Behind the Falls
Head to Table Rock Welcome Centre to begin this one-of-a-kind experience. You’ll travel through tunnels and stand behind the cascading falls—yes, you’ll get wet (ponchos will be provided), but it’s worth it.
Tip: Take your time exploring Table Rock afterward. Grab a coffee, browse the gift shops, and check out the historical photo exhibit upstairs. - Lunch at Table Rock Market
Easy options like burgers, pizza, and salads. Indoor and outdoor seating available, plus clean bathrooms and a water bottle refill station. If you are looking for a sit down restaurant there is also the Table Rock House Restaurant.
Afternoon: Up Close by Boat
After lunch head for a stroll along Niagara River Parkway. There are lots of photo ops and places to run around.
Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower)
This is the boat tour that gets you right into the mist. It’s thrilling and unforgettable—and yes, another poncho is involved! My kids giggled the whole time.
🎟 Tip: Save by bundling your Journey Behind the Falls and Hornblower boat ride tickets with this combo deal (Click here).
Evening: Dinner + Fireworks
- Dinner at The Works Gourmet Burger Bistro
A casual, kid-friendly spot with big burgers and a fun vibe. The kids’ menu includes drinks and dessert. It’s just a short walk from the falls on Clifton Hill. - Falls Illumination + Fireworks
As night falls, the waterfalls are lit in beautiful colors. From May to October, stick around for the 10 p.m. fireworks show—it’s the perfect end to your first day. Bring some snacks and enjoy the view! Find an up to date schedule on Niagara Parks Website.
Day 2: Clifton Hill Fun
Morning:
Your second day in Niagara is a super fun day, especially for the kids (and adults) who love action and games!
After breakfast at your hotel, make your way to Clifton Hill. When I was young, my sister and I used to call it “the fun street” and for good reason, there are so many activities to do along here!
It’s worth is to buy a Clifton Hill Fun Pass which includes 6 attractions and saves you money. You can find it here.
- Clifton Hill Fun Pass
Get this pass to save on 6 top attractions, including:
- Niagara SkyWheel – panoramic views of the falls
- Zombie Attack
- Movieland Wax Museum
- Mini Golf (Dino or Wizard-themed)
- Ghost Blasters Dark Ride
- 4D Theatre Ride
- Niagara SkyWheel – panoramic views of the falls
Our personal favourites are the Skywheel for amazing views of the falls and Dinosaur mini golf for family fun competition.
Lunch at Rainforest Café
Stop for lunch half way through all the fun at the Rainforest Cafe. If i’m being honest, it’s a little bit on the expensive side but the jungle theme that includes thunderstorms and animals moving in the restaurant, is a pretty fun experience. If you have animal lovers in your house, definitely check this out.
Afternoon:
- Continue your afternoon walking around Clifton Hill, enjoy an ice cream or pick out your favourite treat at a candy store!
- Let the kids run free at Oakes Garden Theatre—a peaceful spot with beautiful flowers in the warmer months.
- Recharge with coffee from Starbucks, and don’t miss Hershey’s Chocolate World across the street for sweet souvenirs. It’s right across the street from Oakes Garden Theatre.
Evening:
- Dinner at Antica Pizzeria – Casual, cozy, and family-friendly with a solid kids’ menu. The wood-fired pizza is always a hit.
- Niagara Speedway – End your night with go-karts on a raised roller-coaster track. It’s our family’s absolute favorite activity in Niagara Falls—don’t miss it!
Day 3: Nature & Nearby Gems
Morning
Just a 10-minute drive from the falls, this area is a hidden gem, the Niagara Glen Trails.
- Niagara Glen Nature Centre
Start here for maps, trail advice, and souvenirs/snacks. Open daily from 10–5.
There are 9 trails, all rated moderate (except Whirlpool Trail, which is more difficult).
We’ve done them with kids as young as 3, and the views of the Niagara River are stunning.
🎒 Quick tip: Stop at Sobeys on your way and pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the trails! It’s located just a 10 minute drive to Niagara Glen.
Afternoon: Bird Kingdom
For your last afternoon take a trip to Bird Kingdom. It is the world’s Largest Free-Flying Indoor Aviary. It’s really beautiful to walk around, especially the 3 story garden & waterfall. It’s peaceful and will make you think you are in the jungle!
Bird Kingdom is open daily 9:30–5.
It takes about an hour to explore (or longer if you are enjoying watching the birds or opt to feed the lorikeets for an extra fee).
Other great options if you have more time include:
- Butterfly Conservatory
- Whirlpool Aero Car – vintage cable car over the river with epic views
- The White Water Walk – A newer attraction through Niagara Parks that takes you on a boardwalk along the Niagara River.
Evening: Fun Farewell
Dinner at The Flying Saucer Restaurant
For dinner, have a unique experience at the family friendly Flying Saucer Restaurant. This restaurant is a funky UFO-themed diner that your family will love!
Before you leave, take one last walk to the falls to see them lit up again because really, you can never see them too many times.
Niagara Falls trip planning tips
✅ Book attractions in advance (especially in summer or on weekends)
✅ Use the WEGO Bus for convenient transportation around Niagara Falls. Find WEGO information here
✅ Leave room for breaks—Niagara has a lot to offer, but little legs get tired!
How many days at Niagara Falls really depends on how much you want to do. This guide is a perfect weekend trip to Niagara Falls!
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Niagara Falls always delivers adventure, fun, and family memories that will last a lifetime.📌 Save this post for planning your own 3-day Niagara Falls itinerary!
💬 Have questions or want more tips? Leave a comment below—I’d love to help!
For more nearby attractions, Niagara on the Lake is a must see. Read about how to have the perfect day at Niagara on the Lake here!
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