Niagara Falls

The Weekend Travelogue: Niagara Falls

I’m sure you’ve heard about this little place called Niagara Falls.

It’s one of the most romantic places in the world. People flock here from all around the world, whether you live down the road in Toronto or you’re visiting from across the planet. I live less than an hour away, and trust me, marvelling at this magnificent waterfall never gets old.

However, there’s so much to see in Niagara Falls, Ontario, and the nearby town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. You need to take at least a couple of days to properly visit and explore. It’s time to discover the Falls…and beyond!

Things to Do in Niagara Falls | Day 1

Start your journey off by viewing the Falls themselves in from different heights and perspectives. In late spring or early fall, the crowds disperse but the weather is still lovely. These seasons are my favourite times of year to visit Niagara Falls. With that said, Niagara Falls is spectacular in all seasons, and each one offers an entirely new experience.

From early spring to late fall, I highly recommend taking a Hornblower Niagara Cruises boat tour to get as close as possible to the Falls on water. Pull that bright red plastic poncho over your head, feel the mist on your face and listen to the intense roar of the Falls.

Next, take a self-guided walking tour on the Journey Behind the Falls. Stroll through 130-year-old tunnels behind Niagara Falls with several outlook points. The highlight of the tour is the observation deck right beside the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. It’s about as close as you’ll get to Niagara Falls. Watch one-fifth of the world’s fresh water cascade down to the Niagara River.

Another unique attraction is Niagara Parks’ White Water Walk. It’s a boardwalk that extends along the Niagara River just beyond Niagara Falls. This is no ordinary river walk; you’ll be left in awe of these class six white-water rapids. These rapids are among the most intense in the world, and they’re created by the sheer force of the water from Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls is an entirely new experience in the winter. While you’ll have to bundle up from head to toe, the waterfall is seemingly more magical when it’s covered in layers of ice and snow. All year long, the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls are illuminated with a rainbow of lights in the evening.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Niagara Falls

2177 Hotels
View Destination

Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview and Spa

With sweeping romantic views and a full-service spa, the Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview provides a luxurious stay, even for those keeping to a budget. The rooms feature gorgeous views, pillow-top mattresses, flat-screen TVs with premium channels, and mini refrigerators.

The on-site fitness centre has a sauna, whirlpool, an indoor swimming pool, and a steam room. Connected to the Terrapin Grill, Starbucks Coffee, and the Niagara Fallsview Casino, you barely have to leave the hotel for an entertaining and exciting getaway.

Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa

Niagara Falls
8.2 Very good (7673 reviews)

Things to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake | Day 2

Moments down the road, there’s an entirely different kind of vacation awaiting you. Situated in a small village and the surrounding countryside, Niagara-on-the-Lake is Ontario’s premier wine destination. Relax and indulge in the sights and tastes of the region.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - Niagara-on-the-Lake

846 Hotels
View Destination

Pillar and Post

The Pillar and Post is ideal for a couples’ vacation, a trip with friends, or a family holiday. Situated in a quiet neighbourhood, you’re within reach of everything in town, including shopping, local golf courses, and nearby wineries. Every room contains an LCD TV, a coffee maker, plush bathrobes, complimentary amenities, and several rooms have their own fireplace.

The highlight of the Pillar and Post is the 13,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor spa. There’s a heated indoor saltwater pool, a heated outdoor pool, hot springs, a fitness centre, and an extensive list of spa items. Treat yourself!

Pillar And Post

Top rated
Niagara-on-the-Lake
9.4 Excellent (191 reviews)

Day 3: The Road Home

On your way out of town, make a pit stop in the neighbouring city of St. Catharines. Tackle a portion of the Bruce Trail, a 900-kilometre hiking trail network that extends between Niagara and Tobermory. You’ll find sections of the Bruce Trail in Short Hills Provincial Park, Morningstar Mill, and the Welland Canal. Any of these are an excellent choice for exploring the great outdoors.

Rise Above Restaurant

In downtown St. Catharines, you’ll find one of my favourite restaurants. Rise Above features delicious plant-based meals and it’s a wonderful choice for lunch or dinner. Be sure to try the cheddar mac & cheese, dumpling noodle bowl, or the apple tempeh grilled cheese. It’s healthy comfort food at its finest.

Beechwood Donuts

Wander around the corner to the best bakery in town, Beechwood Donuts. Get your dessert fix here, especially if you have a sweet tooth. Deciding which flavour to eat will be your most difficult decision of the day, so I suggest you grab a half-dozen or a dozen donuts for the road.

The wonders of Niagara Falls and the charms of Niagara-on-the-Lake make for a perfect weekend away with your loved ones. Whether you’re an adventure traveller or more intrigued by enticing food and drink, explore the Niagara region for an enchanting weekend holiday.