Top 5 things to do in Niagara

I know what you’re going to say, and yes, it’s a tourist trap. Niagara Falls, located in Ontario, is one of those cities that’s completely consumed by tourism. There are two aspects of visiting Niagara, the first is the actual physical attraction of the falls themselves, and they are fantastic; one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world. The other aspect is the city itself and, oh boy, it’s really just a giant money-trap full of very cheesy restaurants and stores. But don’t let this detract you from the waterfalls themselves. Just like Indiana Jones entering the cave, he knows there’s a golden relic waiting at the end of the tunnel, if he dodges all the traps. If you implement that concept, you’ll see that the prize is worth the trip.

Here are my top 5 things to do in Niagara Falls, that won’t kill your wallet:

#5 Cham Shan Buddhist temple

The Cham Shan Buddhist temple literally meaning ‘Ten Thousand Buddhas’, is a Buddhist temple built on a three-acre property on the northern end of the Niagara Falls. The Chinese style building contains precious collections of Buddhist arts and artifacts, that are very interesting.

Address: 4303 River Rd, Niagara Falls, ON

 

#4 Whirlpool Adventure Course

Ever wanted to be suspended in obstacles and ziplines in the midst of nature? It’s hard to keep a straight face, but it’s definitely something you should try at least once. There are three self-paced courses including dozens of climbing, zip lining, jumping and swinging aerial games. Even kids can get in on the action with a course designed just for them.

Address: 3500 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON

 

#3 Floral Showhouse

If you head to the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse which has a stunning indoor greenhouse and outdoor gardens you’ll also find the Magnolia Alley during the spring months. The Showhouse is very close to Niagara Falls, just a 10 minute walk.

Address: 7145 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON

 

#2 Dufferin Islands Park

This 2.3 km Trail of nature is a peaceful wonderland. The Dufferin Islands trail offers a tranquil exploration of some of the most beautiful scenery the region has to offer. You will follow the path of man-made bridges and footpaths for easy access to the forested area. This area is also home to the Winter Festival of Lights from November to January each year, when several lighting displays are placed. The trail begins on the Niagara Parkway, between the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse and the Rapidsview Parking Lot.

Address: 7230 Niagara Parkway, Allanburg, ON

Hike Length: 2.3-km loop

Amount of Time to do: 40 mins

#1 The Falls

The Niagara Falls are famous across the world for being one of the biggest. The hype is real and the falls really are magnificent. They are a group of three waterfalls at the southern end of Niagara Gorge. More than 168,000 cubic metres of water go over the crestline of the falls every minute. The Falls drops an average of 188 ft. into the Lower Niagara River.

The water is naturally blue/green in color. That color changes daily with the weather and the amount of sediment in the water. The water color is caused by two things, sunlight refraction and microscopic plants such as algae in the water.

 

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To learn about the best things to do in Toronto, go to the Top 5 best things to do in Toronto