Canada is massive! As the world’s second-largest country it’s baffling how underpopulated it is.

Every single year, Canada dominates Forbes’ livability index, but planning a visit? That’s a daunting challenge! The diversity here is staggering—from Vancouver on the Pacific coast, over the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, sweeping across the vast prairies, darting to Toronto by the Great Lakes, and finally landing in picturesque Nova Scotia on the Atlantic coast. With so much to explore, what on earth will you choose to see?

I am going to write about one of the most jaw-droppingly popular attractions on the entire continent. You can’t even begin to fathom its enormity until you stand in front of it, and the sheer volume of mist. I was absolutely captivated by the sight. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a boat tour and plunge right into the falls—just brace yourself for the soaking! Visiting Niagara Falls is nothing short of exhilarating and it consistently ranks atop the bucket lists of thrill-seekers everywhere.

Niagara Falls is located on the Canada/ USA border were the rainbow bridge that spans the Niagara River marry’s the two countries.

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WHAT DOES NIAGARA FALLS OFFER?

There is plenty to do around the Falls depending on what you have planned and your time on offer. But of course the major draw is the Falls themselves. If your accommodation is local then the area is easy walkable.

THE WATERFALLS

Niagara Falls is actually composed of three waterfalls although the most famous waterfall is Horseshoe Falls. The combination of flow rate, height and the sheer roar of the water makes the falls epic to see in person. Canada’s Horseshoe Falls are the biggest stretching 2590 feet (790m) wide by 187 feet (57m) high, with an immense six million cubic feet of water flowing over every minute.

A path runs right along the edge of the Falls so you can hear the roar, feel the spray on your face and look right down to the blue Maid of the Mist boats getting buffeted by the waves (bring a good waterproof camera case and prepare to get wet if you want to get up close).

RIDE THE WHIRLPOOL JET BOAT

It’s the ultimate challenge and one of the best things to do in Niagara Falls to test your courage. A ride on the Whirlpool Jet Boat is not an easy sail in the park. Last time I did it I sat either in the third or fourth row which I discovered far too late is the wet zone. It’s the “wish you hadn’t sat there” zone.

Picture a boat ride that passes by rapids like “Devil’s Hole” now you know. There are various packages to choose from, including a wet or stay dry option. For more details on Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours CLICK THIS LINK.

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TAKE A JOURNEY BEHIND THE FALLS

Journey Behind the Falls has been taking curious visitors down to see the catacombs that weave behind the Horseshoe Falls.

I remember going as a teenager sporting rental wellies and buttoning up a heavy rubber raincoat for this thrill. Those retro accessories have disappeared instead white-water thrill seekers get a souvenir rain poncho needed to see this wet’n’wild experience.

You will never forget the rush of six million cubic feet of water pouring above you and the trembling of the floor. It’s by far one of the most memorable Niagara Falls attractions.

There are various packages but the standard entry ticket costs CA$29 (GB£26/US$21).

WHIRLPOOL AERO CAR ACROSS NIAGARA GORGE

Take a ride in this open sided cable car which crosses the Niagara Gorge that offers incredible views of the whirlpool below. You also get a bird’s eye view of the crazy jet boats whipping by the fast flowing currents.

The cable car is operational from spring to autumn and costs roughly CA$20 (GB£11/US$14).

MAID OF THE MIST BOAT CRUISE

The Maid of the Mist boat tour is probably the most iconic activity at Niagara. The tour begins and ends on the American side. Beginning on a calm part of the Niagara River, near the Rainbow Bridge, then takes its passengers past the American and Bridal Veil Falls, into the dense mist of spray inside the curve of the Horseshoe Falls, also known as the Canadian Falls. Be prepared to get wet. Carry some waterproof bags for your belongings and camera and don’t forget that poncho.

This is one awesome experience! Tickets roughly cost CA$30.25 (GB£16/US$21). For more information CLICK THIS LINK.

Niagara Falls offers either individual attraction tickets but if you plan to do more than one attraction you may save money by booking a multi pass. To find out more details CLICK HERE.

NIAGARA ON THE LAKE

If your travel plans allow time then visit this cute little town not far from the Falls, Perhaps, you have made plans to stay in a hotel here? Niagara on the Lake is bursting with charm and takes you away from all the tackiness that tourism brings to the Falls.

Where Niagara Falls is big and brash, Niagara on the Lake is the complete opposite – swapping high rise hotels for cute B&Bs and giant casinos for boutique shops and restaurants. The town is set on the edge of Lake Ontario directly opposite Toronto set in the distance, but as you arrive you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time.

Niagara on the Lake’s heritage district is one of the best preserved 19th Century towns on the North American continent. It’s all gorgeous Victorian red brick buildings, perfectly manicured lawns, tree lined streets and window boxes overflowing with flowers. It’s so pretty it could be mistaken for a film set.

There is a shuttle bus between Niagara on the Lake and Niagara Falls from April to September that runs every hour and costs CA$10 (GB£5.50). Of course, Uber is readily available which will cost roughly CA$30 (GB£16/US$21).

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