:''See Niagara Falls (New York) for information about the American side of the falls''
'''Niagara Falls''', Ontario, along with with its sister city Niagara Falls, New York, is the self-proclaimed "Honeymoon Capital of the World." For hundreds of years the grandeur of the Falls of the Niagara River have attracted many to this destination.
Understand
Niagara Falls was incorporated on June 12, 1903. Its population is 83,184 as of 2008.
Mainly a tourist destination, the main attraction has always been Niagara Falls, which brings hundreds of thousands of tourists to the city. Now tourism plays a major part in the economy of the region.
Visitor Welcome Centers open daily at 9AM, June through August. They offer advice and maps of the area, and sell People Mover bus tickets and the Great Gorge Adventure Pass. They are located at:
Table Rock Center (inside the mall near the brink of the Horseshoe Falls)
Maid of the Mist (outside the Maid of the Mist ticket booths)
Clifton Hill (at the intersection of Clifton Hill and Falls Avenue)
Murray Street (near Queen Victoria Place, below the Fallsview Tourist Area and Fallsview Casino Resort)
Get in
By air
'''Buffalo-Niagara International Airport''' (BUF) in Buffalo (New York) then drive, bus, or taxi to Niagara Falls (about 20-30 minutes).
'''Toronto Pearson International Airport''' (YYZ) in Toronto is about a 1 1/2 hour drive from the Falls.
'''Niagara Falls Intl Airport''' (IAG) is the closest airport to the Falls, but it is only for chartered and private flights.
By car
Niagara Falls is 1 1/2 to 2 hours from Toronto (depending on traffic) and 30 minutes from Buffalo.
'''From New York, Boston, and the East Coast:''' Take I-90 W towards Buffalo to the 290 W. Exit onto the 190 N towards Grand Island and Niagara Falls. Follow the highway through Grand Island, than take the exit immediately after the North Grand Island Bridge (as you're leaving the island) for the Robert Moses Pkwy. Continue until in downtown Niagara Falls.
'''From Chicago and the Midwest:''' Take I-90 East towards Buffalo to the 190 W. Follow signs for Grand Island and Niagara Falls. Follow highway through Grand Island, than take the exit immediately after the North Grand Island Bridge (as you're leaving the island) for the Robert Moses Pkwy. Continue until in downtown Niagara Falls.
'''From Buffalo-Niagara International Airport:''' Take the I-90 East to the I-290 West to the I-190 North. Take the I-190 North (over both Grand Island Bridges, $1.00 toll) to the Robert Moses Parkway.
'''From Toronto Pearson International Airport:''' Take Highway 427 S to QEW towards Hamilton. Drive for about 100 km and then keep left to take the Provincial Route 420 E toward Niagara Falls Bridge to USA. Provincial Route 420 E becomes Roberts St. Stay straight to go onto Falls Ave.
By bus
American Skybus is offering the best deals $50.one way, buy one get one free @ www.amanavak.com Bus depart NYC, DC, Boston TO Niagara falls, Toronto, Montreal with stop in Binghamton NY. Pickup and drop off At The Famous Punjabi Hut Indian buffet, 26 Niagara Street Niagara Falls, NY
'''Coach Canada''', ''1 800'' 461-7661, [http://www.coachcanada.com], and '''Greyhound''', 1-800-661-8747, [http://www.greyhound.ca], offer regular bus service to Niagara Falls from other Ontario cities.
'''Megabus''', +1 877 462-6342, [http://www.megabus.com], offers service to Niagara Falls from New York City, Syracuse, and Rochester.
The Niagara Falls bus depot is located at 4555 Erie Avenue, ''+1 905'' 357-2133. Taxi service to the Falls and main tourist area from the bus depot will run $10-$15, or you can take the Falls Shuttle, [http://www.niagarafalls.ca/services/transit/pdf/falls_shuttle.pdf] (PDF), or the '''People Mover''' bus, [http://www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/peoplemover.php]. If you fancy a walk the route is simple and easy, although nearly 5km, and has the advantage of seeing the Falls come slowly into view.
By train
[http://www.viarail.ca Viarail's] Toronto-Niagara Falls train offers two departures per day in either direction, one in the morning and one in the late afternoon. The trip is about 2-1/2 hours direct to Niagara Falls from Union Station in Toronto. One of the trains daily continue on to New York City, via Buffalo. On the way back, it leaves New York in the morning and arrives in Niagara Falls in late afternoon.
The Niagara Falls train station, 1 888 842-7245 (toll-free), is located at 4267 Bridge Street, about 4 km from the Falls and right across from the bus depot. Taxi service to the main tourist area at the Falls will run $10-$15.
Organized tours
Visitors staying in Niagara Falls can catch a tour from various Niagara Falls tour providers. The following tour companies offer pick-up from all hotels in Niagara Falls:
'''See Sight Tours of Niagara''', +1 800-961-6584, [http://www.seesight-tours.com]. Provides fully guided and narrated tours of Niagara Falls. Half-day and full-day tours available. Pickups anywhere in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Recieve VIP ticketing at Journey Behind the Falls, don't get stuck in long line ups. Admission tickets, parking, and all related fees are covered.
Visitors staying in Toronto can catch a tour from various Niagara Falls tour providers. The following tour companies offer pick-up from all hotels in Toronto:
'''Bedore Tours''', +1 800-538-8433, [http://www.bedoretours.com],[mailto:info@bedoretours.com info@bedoretours.com]. Offers guided sightseeing tours of Niagara Falls Ontario and Niagara Falls NY, Charter Bus service from 14 passengers to 56 passengers, Group Tour services catered to reunions and conventions and one day tours from NYC.
'''Elite Tours of Niagara Falls''', +1 888 488 2074, [http://www.toursofniagarafalls.com]. Guided and narrated tours of Niagara Falls. Several tours to choose from, including adventure tours and history/heritage tours. Lets you bypass the line at popular attractions like Maid of the Mist, Journey Behind the Falls and the IMAX Theater.
'''Toronto Tours Canada''', 1 800-391-0149 (toll-free), [mailto:info@torontotours.ca info@torontotours.ca], [http://www.torontotours.ca]. Niagara region day tour from Toronto, including Niagara Falls. Optional helicopter flight over the Falls.
'''Niagara Tours''', ''+1 416'' 721-3472 or ''1 866'' 546-4999 (toll-free), [mailto:info@niagaratours.ca info@niagaratours.ca], [http://www.niagaratours.ca]. Guided day tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls.
'''eTours''', 1 800-391-0149 (toll-free), [mailto:info@etours.to info@etours.to], [http://www.etours.to]. Guided day tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls.
Get around
On foot
Many of the main attractions are within walking distance if you get a hotel that is near the Falls, and the rest are easily accessible by transit.
During the busiest tourist season (May - October), the Niagara Parkway and Queen Victoria Park, [http://www.niagaraparks.com/garden/victoriapark.php] along the Canadian side of the Falls, can become very crowded and finding a "picture perfect" view of the Falls can be hard to do. Walking to the attractions can also be slow during peak tourist season with thousands of people bustling by.
By bus
The '''People Mover''', [http://www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/peoplemover.php], bus system runs on the Niagara Parkway along the river from May to October. There are stops at all the main points of interest along the parkway. One-day pass: Adult (13 years and over): $7.50, children 6-12 years: $4.50, children 5 and under: free. [http://www.niagaraparks.com/files/Map_Niagara_Parks.pdf Map] (PDF) of People Mover stops. People Mover passes can be purchased from any of the Welcome Centers (see "Understand" above for locations).
The '''Falls Shuttle''', [http://www.niagarafalls.ca/services/transit/pdf/falls_shuttle.pdf] (PDF), is operated by the Niagara Transit Commission and has routes covering the Lundy's Lane and River Road districts. Tickets and day passes available at most lodgings, the bus terminal or from the shuttle bus driver. All-day pass: $6.00.
There are also several tour services that offer the option to buy a hop-on hop-off pass, which allows you to board any of the tour buses at any stop point thoroughout the day.
By taxi
Niagara Falls Taxi, ''+1 905'' 357-4000
5-0 Transportation, ''+1 905'' 358-3232
See
Most visitors' first view of the Falls, from the Canadian side of the river, is at '''Queen Victoria Park''', [http://www.niagaraparks.com/garden/victoriapark.php] along the Niagara Falls Parkway. This grand, royal garden provides the perfect vantage point for experiencing both the nightly illumination of the Falls and the summer fireworks displays. The Falls are '''illuminated''', [http://www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/illumination.php], every evening until approximately midnight (see website for exact times) and there are '''Fireworks over the Falls''', [http://www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/fireworks.php], Friday and Sunday nights in the summer months.
'''Niagara Parks''' offers a '''Great Gorge Adventure Pass''', [http://www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/discountpass.php], that includes access to the Maid of the Mist, Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Walk, and the Butterfly Conservatory, a one-day People Mover pass and discounts for other attractions. Pass components do not have to be used on the same day. In general, it takes about 6 hours to complete the main attactions on the pass. One way to use the pass is to do the Maid of the Mist and Journey Behind the Falls on one day, and use the one-day People Mover pass to do the White Water Walk, Butterfly Conservatory/Botanical Gardens, and Aero Car (all of which are near each other, but farther from the Falls) on the second day. thumb|Skylon Tower
'''Maid of the Mist''', 5920 Niagara Parkway (near the foot of Clifton Hills), [http://www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/maidmist.php] [http://www.maidofthemist.com/en/]. A boat that takes tourists to the foot of the falls, where you can better appreciate their thunder and spray. Runs April-October. Boats depart every 15 minutes and the ride is 30 minutes. See website for hours, they vary. Line-ups for this attraction can be quite long, try later in the day (1 hour or so before the last boat leaves) for a shorter wait. Many people use their digital cameras to take pictures, but they will get wet. Waterproof disposable cameras are offered for sale before boarding. Adults (13+ years): $14.50 (March 2008), children (6 to 12 years): $8.60, children 5 and under: free.
'''Journey Behind the Falls''', 6650 Niagara Parkway (Table Rock Center, beside the Falls), [http://www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/behindthefalls.php]. Open year-round except December 25. Adults (13+ years): $12.00, children (6 to 12 years): $7.20, children 5 and under: free.
'''White Water Walk''', 4330 Niagara Parkway, [http://www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/whitewater.php]. A 1,000 foot (305 m) boardwalk beside the rapids. Open seasonally. Adults (13+ years): $8.50, children (6 to 12 years): $5.00, children 5 and under: free.
'''Whirlpool Aero Car''', 3850 Niagara River Parkway (3 miles/4.5 km north of the Falls), [http://www.niagaraparks.com/nfgg/aerocar.php]. Cable car ride over the Niagara Whirlpool. Open March - November. Adults (13+ years): $11.00, children (6 to 12 years): $6.50, children 5 and under: free.
'''Marineland Theme Park''', 7657 Portage Road (about 1 mile from the Falls), [http://www.marinelandcanada.com]. Shows with killer whales, beluga whales, and dolphins, and a variety of amusement park rides. General admission (age 10+): $39.95, child (5-9): $32.95, child (age 4 and under): free.
'''Skylon Tower''', 5200 Robinson Street, ''+1 905'' 356-2651, [mailto:skyinfo@skylon.com skyinfo@skylon.com], [http://www.skylon.com]. 520-foot (160 m) tower that has an observation deck and revolving restaurant with a great view of the falls. There are arcade games in the base. Summer hours: 8AM to midnight, winter hours: 11AM to 9PM. Adult $12.95, child: $7.55, some online discounts.
'''Niagara Skywheel''', 4946 Clifton Hill, ''+1 905'' 358-4793, [http://www.cliftonhill.com/niagara_falls_attractions/niagara_skywheel/]. Ferris-wheel-like, with comfortable pods and views of the Falls and surrounding skyline. 10-minute ride. Year round. Adult $9.99, child $5.99.
'''Clifton Hill Amusement Area''', [http://www.cliftonhill.com]. A hill, and a street, full of exciting and fun tourist attractions such as wax museums, Ripley's Believe it or Not [http://www.ripleysniagara.com], haunted houses, and gift shops.
'''Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens''', 2565 Niagara Parkway (6 miles/9 km north of the Falls), [http://www.niagaraparks.com/garden/botanical.php]. Open daily year-round, dawn until dusk. 100 acres of 20th century themed gardens, a magnificent arboretum, as well as North America's largest butterfly conservatory. At their best in the summer. Free admission. thumb|Blue Morpho butterfly at the Butterfly Conservatory
'''Butterfly Conservatory''', 2405 Niagara Parkway (6 miles/9 km north of the Falls, within the Botanical Gardens), [http://www.niagaraparks.com/garden/butterfly.php]. Over 2,000 butterflies in an enclosed garden - great photo ops. Open year-round except December 25. Check website for times, they vary. Adults (13+ years): $11, children (6 to 12 years): $6.50, children 5 and under: free.
'''Bird Kingdom''', 5651 River Road, 1-866.994.0090, [mailto:info@birdkingdom.ca info@birdkingdom.ca], [http://www.birdkingdom.ca]. Open daily. September-June: 10AM-5PM, July-August: 9:30AM-7:00PM.
'''Floral clock''', 14004 Niagara Parkway (near the Lewiston-Queenston International Bridge), [http://www.niagaraparks.com/garden/floralclock.php]. A clock made entirely of flowers.
'''Queenston Heights Park''', 14184 Niagara Parkway (near the Lewiston-Queenston International Bridge), [http://www.niagaraparks.com/garden/qh_park.php]. This park includes the Brock and Laura Secord Monuments. It is also an end point of the Bruce Trail, which winds it way northward over 800km to Tobermory (Ontario).
'''Imax theatre''', 6170 Fallsview Boulevard, ''+1 905'' 358-3611 or 1-866-405-4629, [mailto:info@imaxniagara.com info@imaxniagara.com], [http://www.imaxniagara.com]. Has an older 45 minute movie about the history of the Falls that's not quite worth the price of admission. Theater houses original barrels used by falls and whirlpool daredevils on display at no cost. General admission: $13.92, some online discounts.
Do
Niagara Falls is wicked! The list is never ending: world class casinos, rides, wax museums, haunted houses, a ''huge'' midway with more skeeball and games than you can shake a stick at, restaurants, clubs, bars, and so on. Go to Niagara Falls, get a hotel near the falls and then walk down Lundy's Lane towards Clifton Hill. The air is buzzing and there are people from all over the world there.
'''Winter Festival of Lights''', area around the Falls, [http://www.wfol.com]. A 5km route along the Niagara Parkway featuring over three million sparkling tree and ground lights and over 120 lighting displays. Illuminations November 8, 2008 to January 5, 2009. Fireworks over the Falls on Saturday, November 8, 2008 at 6:15PM & 8:30PM, Friday night at 9PM from November 14, 2008 to January 2, 2009, and Wednesday, December 31, 2008 at 9PM & midnight (as part of the NYE Party in the Park. No admission, $10 donation per car suggested.
'''Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours''', Niagara Glen departure point (approx. 8 km from the Falls, People Mover Stop #9, very little parking). [http://www.whirlpooljet.com]. The tours operating from Niagara Glen use the JetDome boat, which is enclosed and keeps you dry as the boat navigates the whitewater rapids. For the more traditional 'gets-you-soaking-wet' jet boat tour, you will need to use the Niagara-on-the-Lake departure point. April - October.
'''Helicopter tours''' over the Falls and surrounding area are available from a number of operators. Niagara Helicopters Limited, 3731 Victoria Avenue, (905) 357-5672, [mailto:weflyyou@niagarahelicopters.com weflyyou@niagarahelicopters.com], [http://www.niagarahelicopters.com], is one option.
'''Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort''', 6380 Fallsview Boulevard, 1 888 FALLSVU (toll-free), [http://www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com]. A splendid new (June 2004) Vegas-style Casino.
'''Casino Niagara''', 5705 Falls Avenue (near Clifton Hill), ''+1 905'' 374-3598 or ''1 888'' 946-3255 (toll-free), [http://casinoniagara.com]. The old but nice casino.
'''Greg Frewin Dinner Theatre''', 1-866-779-8778, [mailto:tickets@gregfrewintheatre.com tickets@gregfrewintheatre.com], [http://www.gregfrewintheatre.com]. Illusionist [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_Frewin Greg Frewin] presents his Las Vegas style magic show.
'''Get married''': The City of Niagara Falls issues marriage licences at the City Clerk's Office, 4310 Queen St, ''+1 905'' 356-7521 ext. 4283, [http://www.niagarafalls.ca/city_hall/departments/clerks/marriage_licences/index.asp]. The fee is $100. There is no waiting period. No ceremonies are performed at City Hall. '''Niagara Parks''' [http://www.niagaraparks.com/can-we-help/wedding.php] has information about weddings, receptions, and wedding photography near the Falls.
If you're on your honeymoon, you can get an '''Official City of Niagara Falls Honeymoon Certificate''' from the Niagara Falls Tourism Office, 5400 Robinson Street, [http://www.niagarafallstourism.com].
'''Fallsview Indoor Waterpark'''[http://www.fallsviewwaterpark.com], 5685 Falls Avenue, ''+1 905'' 374-4444 or ''1 888'' 234-8410, [http://www.fallsviewwaterpark.com/index.php]. This is Niagara's newest and largest indoor waterpark at 125,000 square feet. The water park features 16 slides, up to six stories high, full-size wavepool and outdoor year-round pool. The Fallview Indoor Waterpark is directly connected to the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel[http://www.sheratononthefalls.com], Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls - Fallsview Hotel[http://www.niagarafallshotels.com/crowne] and the Skyline Inn Niagara Falls[http://www.niagarafallshotels.com/skyline].
Queen Street Arts & Culture District. ueen Street. 05 353-9555. ttp://www.ourdowntown.ca. Queen Street has been revitalized into the latest Niagara Arts & Culture District. Art galleries, boutiques, cafes, bistros, live theatre and festivals.
'''Attractions on Clifton Hill'''[http://www.falls.com], 4943 Clifton Hill, ''+1 905'' 357-2200,. Check out the vast array of flashing lights, Haunted Houses, Mazes, a Fun House, Arcade[http://falls.com/attractions.html]. Tons of fun attractions and restaurants. Located right near the falls between the Niagara Parkway and Victoria Ave.,
Also, don't forget the wine tours. Niagara Falls has recently boomed with vinyards due to the increasing popularity of ice wines. If you've never tasted these, they alone are worth the time. They are thick and sweet much like the muscats and ports, but without the afterbite. They are processed in freezing temperatures in very early morning hours and only with "approved" grapes.
Buy
When making purchases, be sure to use Canadian money or credit cards. Most retail do not observe current exchange rates for American dollars. Many will give change in Canadian money from American money at par, which means Americans currently lose about 15 cents per dollar. There are many currency exchange outlets available. Credit card companies actually do the conversions as they are billed to your statement AND you don't have to worry about dumping all your Canadian money before you leave!
Tobacco and alcohol are higher than in America. In November of 2008, a pack of cigarettes were almost $10.00 and gas was $0.829 a litre! As of Nov. 18, 2008, gasoline is about the same price as in Niagara Falls, NY. (US$2.50/gallon = C$0.83/L with the Canadian dollar at US$0.80)
There are a great many souvenir shops in Niagara Falls, especially in the Clifton Hills area and at the Maid of the Mist Marketplace at the foot of Clifton Hills. You'll find everything from the usual t-shirts and calendars to vials of Niagara Falls water.
'''Piccadilly Place Gifts''', 6022 Stanley Avenue. [http://doubletree1.hilton.com/end_US/dt/hotel/IAGDTDT-Doubletree-Resort-Lodge-Spa-Fallsview-Niagara-Falls-Ontario/index.co]. Gifts and souvenirs. Five locations in town: at Sheraton Fallsview, Sheraton on the Falls, Skyline Inn, Crowne Plaza Niagara, and Doubletree Resort Lodge & Spa Fallsview.
Eat
Most of the North American chain restaurants are represented in downtown Niagara Falls, including '''Little Caesars''', '''Denny's''', '''The Hard Rock Cafe''', '''The Keg''', '''Kelseys''', '''McDonald's''', '''Planet Hollywood''', '''Red Lobster''', '''Subway''', '''T.G.I. Fridays''', '''Tony Romas''', '''Wolfgang Puck''', and '''Tim Horton's.'''
Other options include:
'''Carpaccio Restaurant''', 6840 Lundy's Lane, ''+1 905'' 371-2063, [http://www.carpacciorestaurant.com]. Lots of options including chicken, veal and steak entrees, grilled salmon, rack of lamb, ravioli, gnocchi, lasagna, wild mushroom risotto. Thin crust oven-baked pizzas. Soy spaghetti is available. Family friendly. Dinner mains, $10.95-$34.95.
'''Mama Mia's''', 5719 Victoria Avenue (at the top of Clifton Hill), ''+1 905'' 354-7471, [http://www.infoniagara.com/dining/Niagara-Falls/mamamias/index.html]. Italian, in case the name didn't give it away. Relatively inexpensive (for Niagara Falls) and the food is good. Spaghetti (vegetarian sauce option available), manicotti, cannelloni, homemade fettuccine, lasagna, eggplant (or chicken or veal) parmigiana, gnocchi, hamburgers. Lunch mains $7.95-$8.95, dinner mains $9.50-$18.95. $22.95 gourmet dinner menu.
'''Napoli Ristorante and Pizzeria''', 5484 Ferry Street (at Stanley Avenue), ''+1 905'' 356-3345. Homestyle Italian food made with fresh ingredients. Casual atmosphere.
'''Antica Pizzeria''', 5785 Victoria Avenue, ''+1 905'' 356-3844. Thin-crust pizza made to order in wood-burning ovens. Can be busy at dinner time.
'''CopaCabana Brazilian Steak House''', 6671 Fallsview Blvd (at Main Street), ''+1 905'' 905-354-8775, [http://www.copacabana.ca]. A Brazilian BBQ restaurant, where for $36 per person you get all-you-can-eat servings of grilled steak, pork, chicken, lamb, sausage, etc. Outdoor patio. Samba music and dancers on Friday and Saturday nights. Very busy, and there can be a long wait for tables. $36 per person.
'''Suisha Gardens''', 5701 Lewis Ave., ''+1 905'' 354-1500, [http://www.suishagardens.com/main_e/main.html]. Tu-Su (closed Monday), 5PM - 10PM. Very pleasant Japanese restaurant. They cook, Teppanyaki-style, at your table. It's some tasty stuff and for what you get, the price is reasonable. The building looks old and run-down from the outside but when you enter, it's like walking into a small pocket of Japan. Sushi bar. Take-out available. Reservations recommended. Teppanyaki set menus, $15.95-$40.95.
'''Taki''', 5530 Victoria Avenue, ''+1 905'' 357-7274. "Taki" means "Falls" in Japanese. Very authentic-style Japanese restaurant. Great food, great atmosphere. Pricy, but it's worth it.
'''Yukiguni''', 5980 Fallsview Boulevard, ''+1 905'' 354-4440, [http://www.yukiguni.ca]. Daily, Noon-11PM. "Yukiguni" means "snow country" in Japanese. Very good Japanese food. Loved by Japanese. Menu includes sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, tempura, and noodles. Mains, $10.20-$17.50.
'''Secret Garden Restaurant''', 5827 River Rd., ''+1 905'' 358-4588, [http://www.secretgardenrestaurant.net]. Breakfast served until 11AM daily. Large outdoor patio with a view of the American Falls and the surrounding flower gardens. Varied menu includes: hamburgers, quiche Lorraine, soups, salads, pasta, fish of the day, fish and chips, steak, rack of lamb, prime rib of beef. Vegetarian and children's menus. Dinner entrees $9.95-$29.95.
'''Taco N' Tequila''', 5355 Ferry Street (5 minute walk from Clifton Hill), ''+1 905'' 371-8255. Simple, yet good, Mexican fare and home of the 45 oz. margarita.
'''Basell's Restaurant & Tavern''', 4880 Victoria Ave., ''+1 905'' 356-7501. A super-cheap restaurant that may look like "a little hole in the wall" but the food is delish. Try the special: soup du jour (try the vegetable), coleslaw, potatoes or fries, tea or coffee, the special, AND frozen yogurt or ice cream for the end... all of that for only about 8 bucks.
'''The Flying Saucer''', 6768 Lundy's Lane (look for the UFO), ''+1 905'' 356-4553. Daily, 6AM-11PM. Diner/greasy spoon. Home of the 99-cent breakfast (two eggs, hash browns and toast) served between 6AM and noon. Very busy on weekend mornings, but service is efficient.
'''Buchanans Chophouse''', 6022 Stanely Avenue (atrium level inside the Doubletree Resort), ''+1 905''353-4111, [http://doubletree1.hilton.com/en_US/dt/hotel/IAGDTDT-Doubletree-Resort-Lodge-Spa-Fallsview-Niagara-Falls-Ontario/index.do]. Daily until 9 pm. Casual fine dining, regional cuisine. VQA Award of excellence wine list, live entertainment select Fridays, call for details. Steaks, chops & seafood in a Grand Lodge atmosphere. AAA/CAA approved.
'''Tarboosh Mediterranean Grill''', 5809 Victoria Ave (at the top of Clifton Hill) 905-353-0909. Open 11AM-3AM. Tarboosh has a 100% Halal menu. Menu includes shawarmas, falafel, burgers, samosas, springrolls, ice cream, and freshly squeezed juices. 5 minutes away from Niagara Falls. Delivery available fresh and healthy food under $10
Drink
The legal drinking age in Niagara Falls, Ontario is 19.
'''Watermark Restaurant''', 6361 Fallsview Boulevard (in the Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel), ''+1 905'' 353-7138 or 1 800 704-9301, [http://www.niagarafallshilton.com/dining/]. Go for a drink at the martini bar during one of the fireworks shows. You get a really amazing view and the bar is almost always empty, great for a romantic gesture or a dramatic proposal.
Sleep
Prices posted are for high season (May-October).
Budget
'''ACBB Hostel Niagara''', 5741 McGrail Avenue, ''+1 905'' 354-6425, [http://www.hostelniagara.com]. Beds start at $20 per night. Lowest Priced and Highest rated hostel in Niagara and one of the top rated in North America by Hostelworld customers! Great breakfast for free everyday, Free Internet terminals Superb location! AKA Lyons House Hostel
'''HI-Niagara Falls''', 4549 Cataract Avenue, ''+1 905'' 357-0770, toll free ''+1 888'' 749-0058, [http://www.hostellingniagara.com]. Beds start at $26.90 per night.
'''Niagara Falls Backpackers Hostel''', 4219 Huron Street, ''+1 905'' 357-4266, toll free ''+1 800'' 891-7022, prices start at $25
B&Bs
'''Eastwood Tourist Lodge''', 5359 River Road, ''+1 905'' 354-8686, [http://www.theeastwood.com]. 5-10 minute walk to the Falls. Full breakfast. Rooms with balconies with view of Niagara Gorge, some rooms with fireplaces, free wireless internet. $79+
'''Lion's Head Bed & Breakfast''', 5239 River Road, ''+1 905'' 374 1681, [http://www.lionsheadbb.com]. 10-minute walk to the Falls. Historic Edwardian home overlooking the Niagara Gorge. Three-course gourmet breakfasts. $145-$225 per night.
'''Redwood Bed & Breakfast''', 5227 River Road, ''+1 905'' 358-1990 or ''+1 888'' 713-8495, [http://www.redwoodbb.ca]. Two-night minimum stay. $129-$159 per night.
'''Oasis Niagara''', 4266 Elgin Street, ''+1 905'' 353-0223, [http://www.oasisniagara.com]. 15-20 minute walk to the Falls. Continental breakfast. The only Gay men's guesthouse in Niagara Falls, centrally located, free wireless internet. $90+
Hotels
If you'd like a room with a view of the Falls, your hotel options include: The Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls - Fallsview Hotel [http://www.niagarafallscrowneplazahotel.com],Doubletree Resort Lodge & Spa Fallsview [http://doubletree1.hilton.com/en_US/dt/hotel/IAGDTDT-Doubletree-Resort-Lodge-Spa-Fallsview-Niagara-Falls-Ontario/index.do],Embassy Suites [http://www.embassysuitesniagara.com], Fallsview Casino Hotel [http://www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com/Default.aspx?Page=8%20Teaser%20Hotel], Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel and Spa [http://www.niagarafallsmarriott.com], Niagara Falls Hilton [http://www.niagarafallshilton.com], Oakes Hotel [http://www.oakeshotel.com], Ramada Plaza Fallsview [http://www.ramada.com/Ramada/control/Booking/property_info?propertyId=13934], Fallsview Plaza Hotel [http://www.FallsviewPlaza.com], Sheraton Fallsview [http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/Fallsview], and Sheraton on the Falls Hotel [http://www.sheratononthefalls.com]. Specify that you want a '''full fallsview''' room when you book, or you may be given a room with only a partial view. If getting the 'perfect' room is important to you, book through the hotel directly as opposed to on-line or via their world-wide reservations number.
'''A1-Motel''', 7895 Lundys lane Niagara Falls, Canada , ''1 905'' 354 6038, [http://www.a1motel.net].2 miles from falls, go to website for further details. $39+
'''Lodge Inn And Suites Near The Falls''', 5234 Ferry Street , ''1 800'' 440 9555, [http://www.lodgeinnandsuites.com].Lodge Inn And Suites is located near the Falls and a short walk to the Fallsview Casino, Casino Niagara and of course the "street of fun" Clifton Hill. Offers a free breakfast, free local calls, and cable TV. $89+
'''Embassy Suites Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel''', 6700 Fallsview Boulevard, ''+1 905'' 356 3600 or ''1 800'' 420 6980, [http://www.embassysuitesniagarafalls.com].Embassy Suites Niagara Falls ? Fallsview Hotel, is the newest Niagara Falls hotel in Niagara Falls Canada. The hotel towers 42 storeys over the Brink of Niagara Falls - and is located only 100 yards from the waters edge. Located on Fallsview Boulevard in the Fallsview Tourist District ? beside the new Niagara Fallsview Casino, the hotel is surrounded by Niagara's finest restaurants and attractions and offers the finest in Fallsview accommodations.
'''Fallsview Plaza Hotel Niagara Falls''', 6455 Fallsview Boulevard, ''+1 905'' 357 5200 or ''1 800'' 363 3255, [http://www.fallsviewplaza.com]. Located 1 block from the Falls and connected by enclosed walkway to Casino. This hotel features Fallsview guest rooms and luxurious Whirlpool rooms. Located just steps from Niagara Falls and other major Niagara Falls attractions. Complete fitness center including indoor waterfall swimming pool. Event, meeting and conference facilities, valet parking.
'''Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel & Spa''', 6740 Fallsview Boulevard, ''+1 905'' 357 7300 or ''1 888'' 501 8916, [http://www.niagarafallsmarriott.com]. The Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel & Spa is located only 100 yards away from the brink of Niagara Falls. Featuring amazing Fallsview accommodations, elegant Fallsview dining and full-service spa. Located in the Fallsview Tourist district, take the Skywalk to the Fallsview Casino Resort and other Niagara Falls attractions.
'''Doubletree Resort Lodge & Spa Fallsview''', 6039 Fallsview Boulevard, ''+1 905'' 358-3817 or 1-800-222-TREE, [http://doubletree1.hilton.com/en_US/dt/hotel/IAGDTDT-Doubletree-Resort-Lodge-Spa-Fallsview-Niagara-Falls-Ontario/index.do]. Five Lakes Aveda day spa [http://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/content/IAGDTDT/media/pdf/IAGDTDT_Spa.pdf?cid=OH,DT,iagdtgdt,SpaF] (PDF). Indoor lap pool and family pool, whirlpool, fitness room, seasonal outdoor hot tub and garden sun deck. Doubletree Sweet Dreams sleep experience. Spacious guestrooms, two room suites and premium rooms with two person whirlpool tubs. Choose Cityview, Riverview of US Fallsview. Rated four diamonds by AAA/CAA. Two blocks from brink of the Falls, 400 yards to Fallsview Casino Resort.
'''Sheraton on the Falls Hotel''', 5875 Falls Avenue (Clifton Hill area, 2 min walk to Maid of the Mist), ''+1 905'' 374-4445 or ''1 888'' 234-8410, [http://www.sheratononthefalls.com]. The rooms at the front of the hotel offer amazing views of the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Indoor and outdoor pools. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is connected to the hotel. Some rooms with fireplace and jacuzzi. Features an 80 foot buffet table at its Fallsview Restaurant located on the 12th floor of the hotel.
'''Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls - Fallsview Hotel''', 5685 Falls Avenue (Clifton Hill area, 2 min walk to Maid of the Mist), ''+1 905'' 374-4444 or ''1 888'' 234-8410, [http://www.niagarafallscrowneplaza.com]. This hotel maintains its old world Victorian style and design but provides all of its customers with new world amenities. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is directly connected to the hotel. The Crowne Plaza hotel features indoor dining options at it Fallsview Rainbowroom Restaurant.
'''Great Wolf Lodge''', 3950 Victoria Avenue, ''1 905'' 354-4888 or 1-800-605-WOLF, [http://www.greatwolf.com/Locations/Niagara/index.aspx]. Located a short drive from the Falls; there is a People Mover stop here. Great for kids, very family-oriented. Large indoor waterpark, spa, restaurant and cafe.
'''Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview''', 6361 Fallsview Boulevard, ''1 905'' 354-7887, [http://niagarafallshilton.com/]. All Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview hotel rooms are decorated in a classic resort style reflecting the natural environment of the Niagara region.
'''Skyline Inn Niagara Falls''', 4800 Bender Hill (Clifton Hill area, 3 min walk to Maid of the Mist), ''+1 905'' 374-4444 or ''1 888'' 234-8410, [http://www.skylineinnniagarafalls.com]. The newly renovated Skyline Inn Niagara Falls features over sized family rooms that fit up to 6 people in one room. The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is connected to the hotel vis the skywalk. Features Family Movie Night, which plays every night in the main courtyard.
'''Hampton Inn By Hilton - at the Falls''', 5591 Victoria Avenue, ''+1 905'' 374-4445 or ''1 888'' 234-8410, [http://www.hamptoninnatthefalls.com]. Newly renovated features complimentary hot/cold breakfast, internet and parking for guests. Features an indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna in the hotel atrium.
'''Courtyard By Marriott Niagara Falls''', 5950 Victoria Avenue, ''+1 905'' 358-3083 or ''1 800'' 771-1123 , [http://www.nfcourtyard.com]. In the centre of the Clifton Hill tourist district, Courtyard by Marriott Niagara Falls features 258 guestrooms, indoor and outdoor pools, Keg Steakhouse & Bar and more. On-site Parking.
'''Comfort Inn Clifton Hill: Niagara Falls Hotel and Resort''', 4960 Clifton Hill, ''+1 905'' 358-3293 or ''1 800'' 263-2557 , [http://www.niagarafallscomfort.com]. Located one block to the Falls in the heart of the Clifton Hill tourist area, This popular Niagara Falls hotel features 185 guest rooms, complimentary continental breakfast, large indoor pool and whirlpool, major on-site attractions and restaurants, guest parking, free wireless internet, friendly service, etc.
Get out
Niagara on the Lake is a pretty, historic town located about 20 minutes north of Niagara Falls. Each summer it hosts the Shaw Festival, [http://www.shawfest.com], featuring the works of George Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries. There are also a number of wineries in the area that you can visit. 5-0 Transportation, ''+1 905'' 358-3232, offers a shuttle service from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake.
'''Niagara Falls State Park''', [http://nysparks.state.ny.us/parks/info.asp?parkID=113] is located a short drive over the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls, New York. Its '''Cave of the Winds''' attraction, [http://www.niagarafallsstatepark.com/Activities_CaveOfTheWinds.aspx] takes you down a series of wooden staircases right beside the Bridal Veil Falls. There are also hiking trails and a Falls observation deck.