25 Incredible Things to Do in Niagara Falls with Kids

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Looking for the best things to do in Niagara Falls with kids?

You’re in the right place!

This is your ultimate activity list to ensure your family’s time in Niagara Falls is packed with unforgettable experiences, fun adventures, and stunning sights.

Niagara Falls isn’t just a quick photo stop—it’s a full-blown family destination with exciting attractions, hands-on experiences, and something for every age.

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or somewhere in between, Niagara Falls offers a little something for everyone.

👋 Hi! I’m Katie, and I help busy moms plan doable vacations with practical tips and family-tested travel ideas.

After exploring Niagara Falls with my four boys, I put together this list of 25 incredible things to do with kids—from big-name adventures to hidden gems.

Must Know Information: All of these attractions and activities are on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. If you’re staying on the U.S. side, you can cross over via the Rainbow Bridge pedestrian walkway. Don’t forget your passport, and you’ll need to pay a $1 cash toll on the way back to the U.S.

View of Table Rock Centre and Horseshoe Falls

1. Niagara City Cruises

One of the most iconic things to do in Niagara Falls is to hop on a boat ride right up to the Falls.

On the Canadian side, this is operated by Niagara City Cruises, with the experience called Voyage to the Falls.

On the American side, it’s the famous Maid of the Mist.

Family posing on the Niagara City Cruises dock wearing their red ponchos with American Falls in the background.

Here’s what I learned after riding this cruise with my kids:

  • You will get wet, but that’s all part of the fun! The spray from the Falls is incredible, and you’re given a pink poncho on the Canadian side (the U.S. side gets blue ones!).
  • If you’re traveling with a stroller, you can park it on the dock before boarding.
  • Wear waterproof shoes (or bring an extra pair to change into), especially if you’re like me and want to enjoy the experience without worrying about soggy feet.

2. Journey Behind the Falls

Another must-do activity is the Journey Behind the Falls.

This unique experience takes you down an elevator 125 feet to tunnels and observation decks, giving you a spectacular view of Horseshoe Falls.

Expert Tip: The wait can get long during the busy season. Book ahead to avoid crowds, and try to go early in the day to minimize wait times.

You will not get as wet at this experience as on the Hornblower Niagara City Cruise.

3. Niagara Parks Power Station and Tunnel

This experience was one of our favorites!

View exiting the tunnel of people on the observation deck and American Falls in the background.

Mom Tip: If you are choosing between this experience and the Journey Behind the Falls, I would definitely choose the Niagara Parks Power Station and Tunnel.

While both are amazing experiences, the Power Station and Tunnel has a much shorter wait time and the observation deck is just as incredible.

We descended 180 feet in an elevator, then walked just under a half of a mile through a tunnel to an observation deck with incredible views of Horseshoe Falls.

View inside of the tunnel at the Niagara Power Station and tunnel with the exit to the tunnel in the background.

You will also be able to see the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls as well.

Mom Tip: It’s stroller-friendly, so it’s perfect for younger kids. Wear good walking shoes—the tunnel is a bit slippery and bring a sweatshirt for the tunnel.

4. Niagara’s Fury

Niagara’s Fury is a 4D experience that shows how the Falls were formed during the Ice Age.

My kids loved the first part (the cartoon), but the second part in the motion theater got them a little wet—and a bit scared!

So if you have younger kids, this might not be the best fit.

5. Whirlpool Aero Car

You need to do the Whirlpool Aero Car. It is a must!

View of the red whirlpool aero car going across the the Niagara River attached to its cables.

This cable car ride takes you over the Niagara River with stunning views of the Niagara Whirlpool below.

It’s a breathtaking experience I’ll never forget!

Tip: Make sure to book online ahead of time for timed entry—this is a popular attraction, and booking ahead will guarantee you get a spot.

You can reach the Whirlpool Aero Car by driving and parking in the free on-site parking lot or by taking the WEGO Greenline North bus. It’s about a 6 km or 4-mile drive from Table Rock Centre.

For more tips on navigating Niagara Falls on the WEGO bus, be sure to check out my post on How to Get Around Niagara Falls with Kids (Stroller-Friendly Tips + WEGO & Incline Guide).

6. Zipline to the Falls

For the most thrilling attraction to do with your family, I recommend Wildplay’s Zipline to the Falls. 

Ziplining next to Niagara Falls is an epic experience with spectacular views. 

Wildplay’s Zipline is located near Niagara Falls Cruises on Niagara Parkway. 

Expert Tip: If you can, book the earliest time slot for cheaper prices and a shorter wait

💡 Tip: Niagara Parks Passes

Note: Many of these attractions can be bundled together if you purchase one of the Niagara Parks passes. In addition to the attractions, you will also receive access to the WEGO bus and Incline Railway depending on the level of pass you purchase.

Want to learn more about Niagara Parks passes and discover which is best for your family? Find out here— Niagara Parks Passes Explained: How to Choose the Right One for Your Family.

7. White Water Walk

The White Water Walk takes you along a boardwalk beside the Niagara River, where you can see the roaring rapids up close.

It’s stroller-friendly and perfect for a leisurely stroll with the family. My kids loved the walk, and the views are incredible

To do the White Water Walk, you will once again descend in an elevator down 70 meters.

8. Whirlpool Adventure Ropes Course

If you’re looking for adventure, the Whirlpool Adventure Ropes Course is a must!

With obstacles, ziplines, and a 40-foot plummet over the Niagara Whirlpool, it’s the perfect way to burn some energy while taking in stunning views.

9. Clifton Hill

Clifton Hill is Niagara Falls’ entertainment district—there’s so much to see and do!

We wandered the area, popped into arcades, and checked out the Skywheel.

It’s fun, quirky, and totally worth a visit!

Tip: Consider the Clifton Hill Fun Pass if you plan on doing multiple attractions.

10. Dinosaur Adventure Miniature Golf

For an epic mini-golf experience, head to Dinosaur Adventure Miniature Golf on Clifton Hill.

With life-sized dinosaurs, an erupting volcano, and two 18-hole courses, it’s a blast for all ages.

Tip: Play earlier in the day to avoid the crowds and long wait times.

11. Movieland Wax Museum

Located on Clifton Hill, this museum features life-sized wax sculptures of famous movie characters.

It’s the perfect opportunity to see some of your favorite characters up close!

12. Niagara Speedway 

For adrenaline junkies, Niagara Speedway is the place to be!

It’s a go-kart track that spirals four stories high—it’s thrilling for both kids and adults.

Tip: Drivers must be 18 or older, and passengers need to be at least 40 inches tall.

13. Great Canadian Midway

We love a good arcade, and the Great Canadian Midway is just that!

The Great Canadian Midway has over 300 games plus the Cosmic Coaster Motion Simulator and Ghost Blasters Dark Ride. 

Both of these rides are included in the Clifton Hill 6 Attraction Fun Pass. 

14. Ripley’s Believe It or Not

For oddities and interactive exhibits, Ripley’s Believe It or Not on Clifton Hill is a must-see.

My kids enjoyed all of the amazing exhibits—a great stop for a quirky adventure.

15. Niagara Skywheel

For stunning aerial views of Niagara Falls, take a ride on the Niagara Skywheel.

The gondolas are climate-controlled, and the views of the Falls and Clifton Hill are spectacular.

The ride takes between 8 and 12 minutes. 

The Niagara Skywheel is also part of the Clifton Hill Fun Pass.

Looking for a hotel that’s close to all the fun?
We stayed at Embassy Suites Fallsview—read the full review of our stay at the Embassy Suites here—and it made walking to attractions so easy with kids.

16. Butterfly Conservatory

Experience the amazing Butterfly Conservatory along with the tropical garden inside of it.

The Butterfly Conservatory is located on the grounds of the Niagara Falls Botanical Gardens.

Admission to the Botanical Gardens is free but visitors will have to pay in order to enter the Butterfly Conservatory.

While at the Butterfly Conservatory, over 2,000 colorful butterflies will be free flying around while you meander on the pathways in the conservatory and enjoy the waterfalls, gardens, and more. 

It’s a peaceful and beautiful stop on your Niagara Falls trip.

Tip: The Butterfly Conservatory is included in the various Niagara Parks passes, so if you’re planning on visiting multiple attractions, purchasing a pass could be a great way to save money while enjoying everything Niagara Falls has to offer.

17. Bird Kingdom

If your family loves animals, don’t miss Bird Kingdom—the world’s largest free-flying aviary.

It takes about an hour to see all of the parrots, bats, and other exotic creatures.

18. Skylon Tower

For panoramic views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area, the Skylon Tower’s observation deck is a must.

Take the 52-second elevator ride to the top and be wowed by the views!

View of the Skylon Tower in the distance with the WEGO bus in the foreground.
View of Skylon Tower

19. Visit the Floral Clock

The Floral Clock is a free attraction that’s worth a quick stop.

Located on Niagara Parkway, it’s a great photo op for families.

Plus, there’s a gift shop and restrooms on-site.

20. See the Falls Lit Up at Night

The Illumination of the Falls at night is a breathtaking experience.

Watching the Falls change colors under the lights was one of the highlights of our trip.

Personal Note: We were lucky enough to watch the Falls Illumination right from our hotel room at Embassy Suites Fallsview, and it was beyond amazing! Seeing the Falls illuminated from the comfort of our room made the experience even more memorable.

21. Watch the Fireworks 

From late May to October, don’t miss the fireworks display over the Falls!

We watched them from our hotel room, and it was an unforgettable sight.

22. Check out the Lock Bridge

The Lock Bridge is located near the Incline Railway (above Table Rock Centre) and towards the Embassy Suites Fallsview.

It’s a fun and quirky stop where you can add a lock with a special message.

The kids loved looking at all the different locks on the bridge, and we even bought our own to add!

Red Lock Bridge near the Embassy Suites Fallsview in Niagara Falls.

23. Eat at the Flying Saucer

If you’re looking for something unique, the Flying Saucer restaurant is a fun spot.

It’s shaped like a flying saucer, and the kids loved the quirky vibe. The food is great too!

Note: You’ll need to drive to the Flying Saucer since it’s located about 6 minutes from Embassy Suites Fallsview at 6768 Lundy’s Lane.

It’s worth the short trip for a fun and memorable dining experience!

24. Incline Railway

The Incline Railway is a quick and easy way to get to the Falls and Table Rock Centre.

It’s especially helpful if you have younger kids or a stroller.

If you are staying at the Fallsview Tourist area, especially the Embassy Suites Fallsview, you will want to use the Incline Railway to access the Falls.

You can purchase an all day pass, one way, and a round trip ride. 

Not sure how to get around with kids or strollers in tow? My post on How to Get Around Niagara Falls with Kids breaks down everything you need to know about WEGO, the Incline Railway, and stroller-friendly paths.

25. Take some fun selfies at Maple Leaf Place

Maple Leaf Place is one of the stops on the WEGO Green Line South bus, making it an easy and convenient stop on your Niagara Falls adventure.

While there, take some fun photos with quirky props like a giant moose and a huge plate—it’s a silly stop that will definitely make for some memorable family pictures!

Bonus: There’s also a food court and a large gift shop where you can grab a bite to eat and pick up some souvenirs to remember your trip.

Ready to Book Your Stay at Niagara Falls?

If you’re looking for **unbeatable views of Niagara Falls**, family-friendly amenities, and a convenient location near major attractions, Embassy Suites Niagara Falls Fallsview is the perfect choice!

Book Your Stay at Embassy Suites Fallsview

Top 5 Must-Do Activities in Niagara Falls with Kids

If you’re short on time, here are the top 5 things you shouldn’t miss:

  • See the Falls Lit Up at Night (an unforgettable experience)
  • Niagara City Cruises (you have to see the Falls up close!)
  • Whirlpool Aero Car (incredible aerial views)
  • Clifton Hill (fun, quirky, and packed with attractions)
  • Niagara Parks Power Station and Tunnel (for a magical view of the Falls)

Planning Your Niagara Falls Trip with Kids?

With so much to do, Niagara Falls is an incredible family destination.

Whether you’re ziplining or taking a leisurely stroll to see the Falls, there’s something here for everyone.

➡️ Want help planning your full trip from start to finish? Don’t miss my Ultimate Niagara Falls Family Vacation Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip. It includes where to stay, where to eat, how to structure your days, and so much more!

Get Your Free Travel Itinerary Planner

Feeling overwhelmed by all the details? I get it—planning a family vacation can be a lot.

That’s why I created a Family Travel Itinerary Planner to help you stay organized and actually enjoy the planning process. It’s the exact system I use to map out our family trips—without the stress.

May you LOVE your adventure. KW

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