I love Niagara Falls. Our family lives just about an hour away, and I honestly never get tired of going.
Every time we visit, we like to try something new. The Falls are always the star of the show, but there are also so many other attractions and experiences that you and your kids will love. Whether you’re planning your first Niagara Falls day trip or you’ve been before and want a fresh Niagara Falls itinerary, this guide will show your family how to see it all in one day.
Get ready for a fun, family-friendly adventure packed with nature, history, and plenty of excitement.
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Stop 1: Start with the Main Attraction – The Falls
If you’re only going for one day in Niagara Falls, you have to begin at the Falls themselves.
There are three main waterfalls here:
- Horseshoe Falls (the largest, on the Canadian side)
- American Falls (across the river in New York)
- Bridal Veil Falls (a smaller but stunning waterfall right beside the American Falls)
From the Canadian side, you will be able to get a view of all three. If you stand along the Niagara River Parkway, you can usually feel the mist on your face. When you get close enough you will be able to listen to the roar of the water. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Stop 2: Table Rock Centre
While you’re right by Horseshoe Falls, step inside the Table Rock Centre.
Here you can grab a coffee or hot chocolate on chilly days or an ice cream on the hot days!. There is a souvenir shop with loads of products. You can also get a great view of Niagara Falls from upstairs. Take the escalator up from the main doors.
This spot is also the entrance to what I think is one of the best attractions in Niagara Falls called Journey Behind the Falls.
Stop 3: Journey Behind the Falls
If you are wanting to get closer to the Falls than you thought you could, head to Journey Behind the Falls.
Here you will descend 125 feet underground and walk through 130-year-old tunnels carved right into the Niagara rock. It’s super cool. My kids even spotted a frog in the damp grounds!
First stop is to step out onto an observation deck just steps away from the roaring Horseshoe Falls. It is loud and you will most definitely get wet but they give you a poncho to wear and it really is amazing to see the falls so close up!
Next you will continue your walk though the tunnels again under the falls where you will come to two lookout portals that you can peep through a window that opens directly behind the rushing water. You can only imagine how much water is flowing past there!
💡 Travel Tip: Tickets cost $29 + tax (about $33 CAD). Book ahead to save time: Click here: Journey Behind the Falls Tickets.
Stop 4: Walk Along Niagara Parkway
After Journey Behind the Falls, take a walk down the Niagara RIver Parkway.
The Niagara River flows beside you on one side and the other side is gardens and beautiful flowers in spring and summer. You’ll definitely want to snap some photos along this walk and enjoy the natural beauty that I think makes Niagara Falls so special.
Stop 5: Niagara City Cruises
The second activity I highly recommend, especially to first time visitors is Niagara City Cruises. It’s a boat tour takes you right into the heart of the action past the American Falls, along Bridal Veil Falls and right up to the base of Horseshoe Falls.
Yes, again, you will likely get wet (ponchos are included) but it’s totally worth it. The sound, the spray and the view are like nothing else. My kids got an absolute kick out of this as they tried to hide under their pochos, giggling away.
It’s a must-do on any Niagara Falls in a day itinerary.
Stop 6: Time for Lunch
By now, you’ll definitely be hungry. Luckily, Niagara Falls has tons of restaurants.
Some family-friendly favorites:
- 🍕 Zappi’s Pizza – This local Italian restaurant is casual, family friendly and delicious.
- 👽 The Flying Saucer – This themed restaurant is shaped like a UFO, the kids will love it.
- 🍝 Boston Pizza or Kelsey’s – These 2 are reliable sit-down chains located right on Clifton Hill.
💡 Travel Tip: If you’re short on time, grab something quick on Clifton Hill which has a ton of take out places like Tim Hortons, Burger King and Freshii.
Stop 7: Clifton Hill
Next up: Clifton Hill. This is Niagara’s entertainment district and feels like a mini theme park. Growing up, my sister and I used to call it “The Fun Street”
What you’ll find:
- Haunted houses 👻
- Arcades 🎮
- Mini golf ⛳
- Candy shops 🍭
- Fun houses and rides 🎢
It’s busy, it’s loud and it’s pure fun for kids. One of my kids (and mine too) favourite things to do is go karting at Niagara Speedway! There is over 2000 feet of road to race on, it will make you feel like you’re in a video game!
If you plan to do a few attractions, grab the Clifton Hill Fun Pass. It includes six activities: Niagara SkyWheel, Zombie Attack, Movieland Wax Museum, Dinosaur Adventure Golf or Wizards Golf (we like the Dino one), Ghostblaster’s Dark Ride and Toy Store 4D Ride or Carnival Chaos. Grab yours here: Clifton Hill Fun Pass.
Stop 8: Butterfly Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
If Clifton Hill feels a bit chaotic and you are looking for something quieter to do, I recommend driving or taking the the WEGO bus to the Butterfly Conservatory.
Inside this tropical paradise over 2,000 butterflies fluttering around you, a 180-metre winding path through lush greenery and a small waterfall for photos
The building is surrounded by a glass ceiling and it feels so warm and peaceful. Plan to spend 1–2 hours here.
💡 Travel Tip: The conservatory sits inside the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, so if the weather is nice, take time to explore the grounds.
Get your tickets here: Butterfly Conservatory Entry
Stop 9: The Flower Clock
A short drive from the gardens is one of Niagara’s quirkiest attractions: the Flower Clock.This famous working clock is powered by a nearby Niagara Parks Power Station and surrounded by thousands of flowers. It’s a quick stop, but worth seeing especially in summer when it’s in full bloom.
Stop 10: Evening Fun – Fireworks & Illumination
To end your Niagara Falls day trip with something amazing, head back to the falls and enjoy the Niagara Falls fireworks show. You can catch the fireworks every night from May to October.
Every night throughout the year you can also watch the Niagara Falls Illumination where the falls are lit up, and change colours. There’s nothing quite like standing beside the illuminated Niagara Gorge, it’s so pretty.
Travel Tips for Your Niagara Falls Day Trip
- Plan your time wisely. With so much to see, stick to a few key attractions to avoid rushing.
- Bring snacks and water. Clifton Hill treats are fun, but if you can, a few packed goodies will keep kids happy.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll do a lot of walking between the Falls, the park, and Clifton Hill.
- Pack layers. The mist from Horseshoe Falls can make you chilly even on hot days.
Don’t stress. You can’t see everything in one trip. That’s just another reason to come back!
Niagara Falls in a Day: The Perfect Itinerary
Niagara has something for everyone. This day trip guide is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for adventure close to home or just passing though, you’ll find plenty to fill your day.
And who knows? Like me, you might love it so much that one day in Niagara Falls just isn’t enough. If so, check out this 3 day Niagara Falls Itinerary!
Looking for somewhere to stay overnight? Check out these Niagara Falls hotels:
Here are 3 of our favourite hotels to stay. We always like places with a pool and a great view!
Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview
Americana Waterpark Resort and Spa
