Things to Do in Niagara Falls

At the Cave of the Winds observation decks, thrill-seeking visitors can get within 20 feet (6 meters) of the thundering Niagara Falls for an experience that feels like the inside of a tropical storm with torrents of water cascading down and winds up to 68 mph (109 kph). Safe to say, you’ll probably get wet.

You can't get any closer to the thundering cascades of Niagara Falls than on a Maid of the Mist boat tour. The little steamboats have been chugging away into the falls' misty sprays since 1846, making this one of the area’s oldest tourist attractions. Be prepared to get up close and personal with the highest-flow-rate waterfall in the world—and to get wet, which is all part of the unforgettable Maid of the Mist experience.

The smallest of the three waterfalls that comprise world-famous Niagara Falls, Bridal Veil Falls is anything but small. Located on the US side of the falls, the 56-foot-wide (17-meter-wide) waterfall thunders over a 78-foot (24-meter) drop. Its frothy white cascade is reminiscent of a bride’s veil, hence the falls’ name.

In Niagara Falls State Park, three footbridges link Goat Island to the Three Sisters Islands. From there, you can see impressive views of the rapids of the Niagara River racing toward the falls. It’s a peaceful place to take a walk amid the highly popular park and town of Niagara Falls, New York.

Whirlpool State Park proves that the Niagara region’s natural beauty doesn’t end with Niagara Falls. With hiking trails, picnic tables, Niagara River views, and an impressive whirlpool, this park is a great place to spend a few hours. Thanks to the highly oxygenated water, there’s good salmon and trout fishing here, too.

Since 1996 Hard Rock Café in Niagara Falls has been a destination for travelers who want to relax, unwind and let loose after a day exploring the incredible landscapes of this true travelers paradise. Located just minutes from the falls, this iconic restaurant offers up a classic menu of American fare in a setting that’s a real nod to pop culture. Enjoy burgers, milkshakes and fries surrounded by music memorabilia, including instruments, clothing, gold records and other items from top entertainment icons.

Hard Rock Café is more than just a popular eatery—traveler can catch performances of local and national stars on the restaurant’s stage many nights of the week. Just check their calendar for a listing of events and get ready to enjoy an evening of live entertainment after a day outside.

Established in 1965 by scientists, the Aquarium of Niagara has grown to become a charming and educational place to spend some time in Niagara Falls, New York. More than just a museum, the aquarium is a rescue center for injured sea animals and is home to seals, Humboldt penguins, and all kinds of fish.

Devil’s Hole State Park is a peaceful place to relax after visiting thunderous Niagara Falls or when exploring the Niagara Gorge. The 42-acre (17-hectare) park has picnic areas, hiking trails, and fishing spots. Just north of Niagara Falls, New York, it overlooks the Devil’s Hole Rapids on the Niagara River and has views across to Canada.

This 314-seat theater offers a larger-than-life experience to travelers visiting Niagara Falls. Its 45-foot-tall screen brings the thundering waters of this epic destination inside and creates the sense of being surrounded by the falls (in climate-controlled comfort).

More than 14 million people have watched this 30-minute film, which showcases the beauty of the falls and describes its history—including the men and women who’ve attempted to cross it or go over it throughout the years. Gain a deeper understanding of what makes this international destination so unique before heading out into the open and getting an up close look in real life.