Though Niagara Falls are NOT considered the world's largest waterfalls, this collection of waterfalls remains one of the most popular attractions in North America. Despite some differences between the Canadian and US sides, Niagara Falls is a stunning sight to behold. For centuries, the rushing waves were admired by many, being a source of inspiration for artists, hydroelectricity, and perfect social media-worthy photos. What's more, this popular landmark can be admired from a variety of angles and scenic viewpoints, both located on the US and the Canadian side of the falls!
10 Niagara Falls Observation Tower
Many argue that the Canadian side of the falls boasts better views, but the American side still presents a collection of scenic vantage points, especially the Niagara Falls Observation Tower. Extending over the Niagara Gorge, guests can get picture-perfect views of the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the massive Horseshoe Falls. This scenic point also makes a great location for local birdwatching!
9 Maid Of The Mist
Instead of admiring Niagara Falls from afar, why not admire it up close? Take a ride on the Maid of the Mist, North America's oldest attraction since 1846! On the American side, visitors can witness the beauty of the rushing falls before their eyes. While wearing a recyclable poncho, visitors can see and feel the rumbling of the powerful waterfalls! Similarly, the Canadian side also hosts a similar boat tour through Niagara City Cruises.
8 Journey Behind The Falls
Situated on the Canadian side, the Journey Behind the Falls is one of the most popular attractions around Niagara Falls. Sporting a bright, recyclable poncho, visitors will have a chance to venture into a historic tunnel behind the Horseshoe Falls, hundreds of feet below the Falls itself! Though quite popular (especially in the summer), the Journey of the Falls is a great way to experience the thunderous roar of the Horseshoe Falls.
7 Cave Of The Winds
Found on the American side by the American Falls, the Cave of the Winds is a chance for visitors to see the happenings behind Niagara Falls' smallest waterfall, the Bridal Veil Falls, which was also the site of a small cave. For safety and protection, each visitor will wear a yellow poncho clad with safety footwear! Open year-round, guests experiencing the Cave of the Winds can feel the mist emanating from the rushing waters.
6 Skylon Tower
Want to enjoy the sights of Niagara Falls without getting splashed or wearing a bright poncho? Then the observation deck at the Skylon Tower is a traveler's best bet! Located on the Canadian side along Robinson Street, the Skylon Tower boasts panoramic views of Niagara Falls, 775 feet high. The Skylon Tower also houses an award-winning restaurant that offers dinner (or lunch) with a beautiful view of the falls as it rotates 360 degrees!
5 Niagara SkyWheel
Found on Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls (Ontario), the Niagara SkyWheel is one of the nation's largest observation wheel. Open late into the night, seven days a week, riders can hop onboard one of the SkyWheel's enclosed gondolas to capture an expansive view of Niagara Falls. The Niagara SkyWheel is also a year-round attraction, offering air-conditioned (or heated) gondolas for guests' comfort!
4 Queen Victoria Park
A perfect stop while embarking on a Niagara Parkway road trip on the Canadian side of the falls, Queen Victoria Park is a sprawling green space with lush garden, tall trees, picnic areas, and multiple viewing areas of Niagara Falls, free of charge! Walk along the paved trails along the park to get good glimpses of all three falls; visitors may even get close enough to feel a light spritz of water coming from Horseshoe Falls!
3 The Tunnel At Niagara Parks Power Station
Many scenic viewing places around Niagara Falls boast panoramic views of this popular North American landmark. However, for an entirely different viewpoint, guests can head to the Niagara Parks Power Station on the Canadian side to venture into the Tunnel. Recently opened, this tunnel spans 2,198 feet, taking guests to a platform at the end that features a pristine view of the turquoise waters bubbling around the rush of Horseshoe Falls.
2 Whirlpool State Park
Situated in New York, the Whirlpool State Park doesn't offer views of Niagara Falls, but rather its lush blue rapids and the mesmerizing swirls of the Whirlpool. Plus, this state park is a great place for picnicking but is ideal for hiking due to its abundance of hiking trails, many of which overlook the Niagara Gorge. Visitors staying on the Canadian side of the falls can enjoy similar views at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre, which is also a popular site for hiking, picnicking, and bouldering.
1 Zipline Niagara Falls
Looking for a view of Niagara Falls without the picture-taking crowds? Adventure-seeking tourists are guaranteed to get incredible views of Niagara Falls while "flying" free, thanks to this exciting ziplining excursion! Hosted by WildPlay Niagara on the Canadian side, this thrilling zipline adventure will take visitors at the top of the gorge to the base of the Horseshoe Falls as they soar over a zipline trail overlooking the rushing waters below!