7 Best Niagara Falls Attractions: Adventurous activities in 2023!

Millions of tourists from both the US and Canada visit Niagara Falls to witness firsthand the beauty of this natural wonder. Whether you enjoy sightseeing or prefer some action, you won't be disappointed with the wide range of activities and destinations in Niagara Falls. 

In this guide, you will learn about the different ways you can experience these splendid waterfalls and immerse in a thrilling adventure—if you dare. 

Top 7 Attractions in Niagara Falls

To help you out with your itinerary, I've prepared a list of the top things to do in Niagara Falls on both the US and Canadian sides. Check out these must-see Niagara Falls attractions to make the most of your trip.

7. Uncover Fascinating Stories at the Niagara Parks Power Station

The Niagara Parks Power Station is a new attraction that only opened to tourists in 2022. If you're building your itinerary for the top Niagara Falls tourist attractions, you can't miss this one.

You will get the opportunity to descend in a glass-paneled elevator 55 meters beneath the Niagara Parks Power Station to a 670-meter-long tunnel leading to an observation deck right at the river's edge.

The historic Niagara Parks Power Station is the first major power plant on the Canadian side of the Niagara River. Within the museum, you will find displays of restored artifacts and various exhibits. There are also interactive areas that provide a glimpse of the time when the power plant was still operational. 

There is also a new light and sound show at the power plant called the Currents. Images and lights are projected onto the towering turbines on the generator floor, depicting important events throughout the plant's history.

The Niagara Parks Power Station is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. If you're a history buff, you can also book a guided tour with an expert interpreter.

6. Admire the Falls' Grandeur from the Prospect Point Observation Tower

If you prefer to see Niagara Falls from a unique viewpoint, head to Prospect Point Observation Tower in New York. It is a top destination for anyone who wants to enjoy Niagara Falls attractions from the USA side.

The Prospect Point Observation Tower provides an ideal middle ground, allowing you to get close enough to the waterfalls to be sprayed by the mist while remaining far enough away to admire all three waterfalls. From there, you can also go to the Crow's Nest, which is a smaller observation deck that brings you closer to the falls.

Prospect Point Observation Tower's hours of operation vary, so it's best to check their website first before planning your visit. The entrance fee to the observation tower is 1.25 USD.

5. Hop on the Maid of the Mist Ride

The Maid of the Mist ride is one of the most iconic Niagara Falls attractions in New York, USA. It is the closest you can get to the roaring waters that cascade from atop the waterfalls. The tour has been delighting tourists for generations, so don't miss this chance to try it when you visit Niagara Falls.

Your Journey to "explore the roar" begins at the Observation Tower. You will be provided a souvenir rain poncho to wear during the ride because you will be soaked! You will board the double deck and then make your way to the base of the American Falls before heading to Horseshoe Falls. The passage from one falls to another provides an awesome vantage point of the rolling whitewater and impressive rock formations.

If you didn't appreciate the grandeur of the waterfalls before, you definitely will after this exhilarating ride. The cost of these Niagara Falls tours is 25 USD for adults and 14.75 USD for children aged 6-12.

4. Experience the Thrill on the Cave of the Winds

Take a walk on the wild side on one of the most popular Niagara Falls tours—the Cave of the Winds. Like the Maid of the Mist tour, you will be provided a souvenir poncho. But even with a poncho, you will get wet, so make sure to wear comfy and weather-appropriate clothes and shoes.

You will descend 53 meters into the Niagara Gorge in an elevator and be taken to a boardwalk just below the falls. The wooden platform is only 6 meters away from the Bridal Veil Falls. You are as close to the raging waters as you can get!

You can visit the Niagara Falls State Park website for more information on their schedule and admission rates.

3. Explore the Niagara Hiking Trails

If you fancy a scenic hike, you will have plenty of options when you visit Niagara Falls. The Niagara Gorge hiking trails in New York offer a once-in-a-lifetime hiking experience for the outdoorsy type. The Gorge Trail System has trails for both beginners and those who are looking for a more challenging trail.

The Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Hike is an easy trail that you can complete in an hour. This trail kicks off at the Trailhead Building. There is no age limit on this trail, so even beginners will enjoy this one.

If you prefer a moderate challenge, head to the Devil's Hole Rapids and Giant Rock. The trail takes a 2.5-hour round trip that begins at the Devil's Hole State Park. 

For the ultimate thrilling hike, there's the Whirlpool Rapids Adventure Hike. This hiking trail is the pinnacle for adventure seekers and is ideal for experienced hikers. The average time to complete this trail is three hours. Prepare for an action-packed hike because you will be navigating some boulders along the route.

2. Take a "Journey Behind the Falls"

The Journey Behind the Falls is one of the most fascinating things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Before the 1990s, this attraction was called Scenic Tunnels.

The Niagara Parks Commission runs and manages the Journey Behind the Falls attraction. It is open year-round. From Canada's Table Rock Centre, you will make your way to an observation platform through a series of tunnels. These 130-year-old tunnels will take you to the bottom of the Horseshoe Falls, where you can hear, feel, and see the cascading waters. They build the ledges further into the tunnel to ensure the visitor's safety.

1. Take a Ride at the Niagara SkyWheel

For a different kind of adventure, hop on the Niagara SkyWheel. The 53-meter-tall Ferris wheel is located in Clifton Hill and is one of the notable Niagara Falls attractions in Ontario, Canada. The Niagara Skywheel first opened in June 2006 and was estimated to be worth 10 million USD.

Thinking of going with your family or friends? Each fully-enclosed car can fit up to nine people. The Niagara Skywheel is open all year round because of its heating and air conditioning features. The ride can last approximately 12-15 minutes, giving passengers a breathtaking and unobstructed view of Niagara Falls.

SkyWheel tickets for adults cost 11.74 USD and 5.48 USD for children, excluding tax.

Plan Canada with Pilot!

Canada is home to many notable attractions, such as Niagara Falls and the Glacier National Park. Be sure to use Pilot if you are looking to plan your perfect trip to Canada.