When you’re planning a trip to Niagara Falls from the U.S., you might be thinking that you will stay on the American side of the falls. After all, you can see the impressive waterfalls from multiple vantage points, hop aboard the Maid of the Mist to get up-close-and-personal and enjoy multiple attractions, all without having to cross an international border.
While it’s true that you can have a great getaway to Niagara Falls on the American side, there are some advantages to crossing over to the Canadian side as well. Even if you don’t spend your entire trip in Canada, there are several good reasons to cross over at least for a while.
Improved Views
When you visit Niagara Falls from the New York side, there are some impressive views, but to get the full effect of all the falls (American, Horseshoe and Bridal Veil) all at once, you’ll need to cross the border. From the Canadian side, you’ll have a long stretch of space to take everything in at once, which you won’t find to the same degree across the river.
And the views don’t stop once you check in to your hotel. You’ll find excellent accommodations on both sides of Niagara Falls, but only on the Canadian side will you find rooms with actual direct views of the falls. There’s nothing quite like taking in the natural wonder from the comfort of your own room, especially in the summer evenings when the falls are illuminated and there is a nightly fireworks display.
More Things to Do
Compared to the New York side of Niagara Falls, the Canadian side is more commercialized and has more of a carnival-like atmosphere — at least in the Clifton Hill area, where much of the action is centered. You could fill several days with all of the attractions and things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada, including:
- The Niagara Skywheel, a 175-foot Ferris wheel offering unparalleled views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area
- Skylon Tower, which includes an observation tower more than 700 feet above the falls, multiple dining options and a family amusement center
- The Great Canadian Midway, a 70,000 square foot family amusement center
- Multiple indoor water parks
- Ziplines to the Falls
- Hornblower Cruises to the base of the falls
- Opportunities to get up close with nature at Bird Kingdom, Safari Niagara and the Butterfly Conservatory
And of course, there is the main attraction itself: The Falls, Niagara River and the Niagara Gorge, with many options for hiking, biking and fishing. In short, you’ll find plenty to do to fill multiple days on either side of the Falls, but for family fun and excitement, the Canadian side offers endless options.
What to Know Before You Cross
Even though thousands of people cross into Canada at Niagara Falls every day, it’s still an international border, and thus there are strict rules to follow.
For starters, regardless of how you cross the border — car, walking, or bicycle — you need to stop at the checkpoint and show a valid passport. Children under age 15 don’t need a passport if they are crossing by land, but they do need an official copy of their birth certificate to gain entry to Canada. At the border crossing, expect to answer questions about what you plan to do in Canada, how long you will be staying and what you’re bringing with you (i.e., food). For most people, the process is quick and easy, but border patrol agents do often select vehicles for more intense screening and may ask to search your vehicle.
And don’t worry — you can bring your furry friends too. As long as you have Fido’s vaccination records, and everything is up-to-date, your dog can come with you to enjoy Niagara Falls from all vantage points.
Finally, keep in mind that in most cases you can use American money on both sides of the Falls, so you don’t need to spend time exchanging cash before you go. Some attractions might seem more expensive at first glance, but current exchange rates are favorable, so you will pay less.
To get the full experience of the majesty of Niagara Falls, and all of the options for entertainment and excitement, it’s really worth visiting both the American and Canadian sides of the border. When you visit, don’t forget to bring your passport, and get ready to have more fun than you thought possible.
