Niagara Falls
The name Niagara Falls can be a bit confusing because it can refer to either:
- The actual waterfalls (there are three different waterfalls apart of what we call ‘Niagara Falls’ – Horseshoe Falls, aka the Canadian Falls – the most iconic ones that most photos are taken of – plus the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, which are on the United States side)
- Niagara Falls, Ontario the city which has about 100,000 people living there
- Niagara Falls, New York the city which is much smaller than the Ontarian city; only about 50,000 inhabitants
- Niagara Falls State Park which two of the three waterfalls are apart of, and other scenic attractions
So, when people say they’re visiting ‘Niagara Falls,’ sometimes you need to be specific – and clarify which parts of the Niagara Falls area you want to see!
The Ontario side of Niagara Falls
The Ontario side of Niagara Falls is the most popular. There are more attractions and things to do.
Many people say that Niagara Falls, Ontario is almost like mini-Las Vegas. There are casinos, haunted houses, bars, lots of restaurants, shopping, etc. I won’t lie – its a bit tacky!
(And yes, its too bad we couldn’t have had it as a national park like the American side!)
However, here’s a fun fact:
Fun fact: The privatization and commercialization of Niagara Falls was a catalyst for the movement to create national parks in both US and Canada
As early as the 1800s, people were setting up Niagara Falls to be what it is now – this lead to movements to make sure the same thing wouldn’t happen to other natural wonders in North America, like Yosemite, Yellowstone and even the Niagara Falls State Park on the other side of the river.
How to Get to Niagara Falls
- From Toronto: You can drive or take transit to Niagara Falls from Toronto; either will take about 2 hours one way. Read my post on getting to Niagara Falls from Toronto for all the options
- From Buffalo: Niagara Falls (New York, or the Ontario side) are about a 30 minute drive from Buffalo. You will need your passport if you’re crossing over to Ontario (which I recommend)
When to Go to Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls can be visited anytime of year (obviously, summer is the most popular, and it can get very busy.)
Other Things to Do in the Niagara Region (Ontario Side)
Here’s what a lot of people end up missing – the Niagara peninsula on the Ontario side of the falls is wine country!
There are said to be over 100 wineries in the Niagara area. This is what makes Niagara such a nice romantic destination, girls’ getaway or a mom and daugher trip.
Niagara on the Lake is about 20 minutes from Niagara Falls, but it has a completely different atmosphere.
Niagara on the Lake has boutique shopping, great restaurants, live theatre, horse-drawn carriages, bed and breakfasts, dozens of wineries in the area, scenic things to do – it’s really a charming town, and I recommend spending time there.
Niagara Falls area with Kids
Looking for things to do in the area with families? I’ve already mentioned its party atmosphere, as well as its romantic and boutique setting, but there’s plenty of things to do in the area with kids too.
I have two kids, and I’ve been to the Niagara area many times with them.