No matter how many times you’ve been to see Niagara Falls, its majestic power never ceases to impress. Better hurry though because according to a Niagara Parks fact sheet, scientists think it’s possible that the American Falls could dry up in the next 2,000 years. Things to do near Niagara Falls include shopping bus tours in Buffalo, a stop in the quaint Niagara-on-the-Lake just 25 minutes from the Falls or a drive through Niagara Region. The following Niagara Falls attractions are some of the most popular events for families and singles.
Fallsview Casino
Fallsview Casino, 6380 Fallsview Blvd., 1-888-325-5788, features 3,000 slot machines, 150 gaming tables, seven restaurants, three bars and a wedding chapel. Take a break from gambling to enjoy a first class buffet dinner for only $20 with a Players Advantage Card (available at the casino) at the Grand Buffet whose window seats overlook the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Holders of the card are also entitled to free parking while visiting the casino.
Casino Niagara
Casino Niagara at 5705 Falls Ave., 1-888-325-5788, was the temporary casino while Fallsview Casino was being constructed, but, due to its prime location in Clifton Hill, it remains open. The Casino has 1,600 slot machines, and 45 table games including Blackjack, Caribbean Stud, Roulette, Craps, Three- and Four-Card Poker, Let it Ride, Spanish 21 and Big Six Wheel, as well as three restaurants and one bar. There is free live music every weekend, as well as a Yuk Yuk’s comedy club. Casino Niagara is directly connected to the Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls – Fallsview Hotel.
Maid of the Mist
The Maid of the Mist boat tour travels from the boarding deck at Queen Victoria Park near River Road and Clifton Hill for a 30-minute, fun-soaked ride underneath the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Raincoats provided. Famous passengers include Theodore Roosevelt, Marilyn Monroe, Mikhail Gorbachev, President Jimmy Carter, Princess Diana, Princes William and Harry, and Jim and Pam from The Office. Adults $19.75, Child (6-12) $12.65 and 5 and under free. The Maid of the Mist boat tour opens on April 12 for the 2012 season.
The Whirlpool Aero Car at Niagara
The Whirlpool Aero Car at 3850 Niagara Parkway, makes a 10-minute journey between Canadian shores over the Niagara Whirlpool, which is formed at the end of the rapids. The aero car is suspended by six sturdy cables. Tickets, which can be purchased at Niagara Welcome Centres, are Adults $12.95, Children (6-12) $8.25, and 5 and under Free. The Whirlpool Aero Car operates from March 9, 2012 to November 3, 2012.
Canada One Factory Outlets
Canada One Factory Outlets at 7500 Lundy’s Lane contains both regular and factory outlet stores including Nike, Roots (Outlet), Coach (Outlet), Nine West, Guess (Outlet), Mexx, Esprit, Body Shop (Outlet), Ecco Shoes, Jones New York, Escada, Urban Behavior, Urban Planet and Phantom (Outlet). The parking lot gets busy so it’s best to get there early. There is always a line-up for the Coach Outlet where discounts as high as 75% can be had on the most recent season’s purses. You probably won’t find bargains quite that good at the other stores in the plaza, particularly if they are not outlet stores. Ladies, however, should check out the Phantom Outlet for great discounts on hosiery, tights and swimwear. The Canada One Factory Outlets are open every day of the year except Christmas Day.
Bird Kingdom
The Bird Kingdom, 5651 River Rd., 905-356-8888 or 1-866-994-0090, is the world’s largest free-flying aviary with over 400 exotic birds such as macaws and Lorikeets in a tropical rainforest setting. Also includes bats and owls and exotic reptiles such as lizards and tortoises. The brave will be tempted to test their courage by holding a python. The Bird Kingdom is open year-round and hours are (Sept. to May) 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; (June to Aug.) 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Adults $16.95; Seniors $14.95, Child 4-15 $11.95. Save $4 off adult and senior’s tickets and $3 off child’s tickets if purchased online.
Fallsview Indoor Waterpark
Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is a 125,000 square foot facility with 16 waterslides including some which are six storeys high, a 1,000 gallon tipping bucket, an indoor wave pool, a beach house, and a year-round outdoor sundeck and activity pool. The waterpark is directly connected to three hotels. Day passes are $44.95 plus tax and 2 and under are Free.
