Niagara Falls, Canada is the ideal vacation destination for the solo traveler, couples and families. Viewing the majestic Niagara Falls is a magical experience, and easy accessibility and affordability have made it a favourite destination for tourists. There is so much to see and do in Niagara Falls!

Helpful Travel Tips For Your Niagara Falls Visit

Currency exchange:
If you are a foreigner visiting Niagara Falls, try to make all purchases with your debit, credit or charge cards. For cash expenditures, use the Canadian dollar (though US currency is accepted). You can get your currency exchanged at a bank or one of the casinos.

Is there a fee to view the Falls?:
The parks are free and open 365 days a year. You can stroll along the Niagara Parkway promenade for great views. Some of the attractions that take you close to the Falls, such as Journey behind the Falls and Cave of the Winds, are only accessible for a fee.

Start your sightseeing early in the day:
During the peak season of summer, there will be long waiting lines for popular attractions like Hornblower boat cruise, Journey behind the Falls and Cave of the Winds. Visit these sites either early in the morning or late afternoon when there are fewer people.

Seasonal attractions:
During the months of November-April, Hornblower/ Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds and Whirlpool Jetboat are closed.  Most attractions are open throughout the year. We recommend you visit during May-October if you want to experience these attractions.

What to wear:
The summer months of June, July and August are warm and breezy – wear light clothes. It is very cold and snowing during winter and early spring – you will need parkas, gloves. You will need to walk quite a bit, so bring along comfortable shoes or sandals (in summer). Bring a light weatherproof jacket as you are sure to get wet when you stand close to the falls.

Where to park?:
If you are visiting just for the day, there are municipal parking lots (paid) and one at Table Rock. Paid parking is also available at the Falls Parking lot or at the Rapidsview lot, a short drive south of the falls which offers free shuttle bus service to Table Rock.  Sometimes it is difficult to find parking if you are coming from Toronto you may want to take a ToNiagara Day Tour.

If you are staying overnight, almost all hotels have parking but you need to pay a fee.

Pack your own Lunch:
You could save a lot of money if you packed your own lunch. At the very least, take some snacks and bottled water with you. You can refill your water bottle at the drinking fountains in the vicinity.

Bring a waterproof camera:
Do not forget to bring your camera as you will want to capture the amazing sights on film.

Driver’s license:
A US driver’s license is valid in Canada and vice versa (however to cross the border requires a passport or other documentation, be sure to research all the necessary documents you will need to enter into Canada).

Buy passes to attractions:
There are a number of passes to various Niagara Falls attractions both in USA and Canada. The Niagara Falls Wonder Pass and Clifton Hill Fun Pass are 2 such passes for Niagara Falls, Ontario. The Niagara Falls USA Discovery Pass is for attractions in Niagara Falls State Park, USA.

Be prepared to get wet (and pack accordingly):
Consider taking an extra pair of socks and shoes with you to attractions such as Hornblower cruise, Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist as these activities will get you wet. Bring along a waterproof bag to keep all your belongings and a light rain/weatherproof jacket to protect yourself from the misty spray of the waterfalls. Packing an umbrella might be a good thing to do.

Be prepared for some walking:
A moderate amount of walking is unavoidable while touring Niagara Falls. People having difficulty walking or not physically fit may face some problems. Luckily, there are benches everywhere where you can pause for a break. Take along a comfortable pair of shoes/sandals.

Take a winery tour:
If you are staying for more than a day, we suggest going on a tour of nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake and its many wineries and vineyards. You can buy great wines at boutique wineries either for yourself or for friends and family.

We hope that our suggestions will better prepare you for touring Niagara Falls. It is the perfect place for a budget getaway (if you stay close by). Take some time to stroll around downtown where you can find souvenir shops, restaurants, shopping malls. Be sure to visit the historical district of Lundy’s Lane – has affordable accommodations and is a shopper’s paradise.

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