Heading to Niagara Falls but not exactly sure what to do? Then check out this next-level awesome list of the most unique things to do in Niagara Falls.
Trust me, I’ve lived in New York for 30+ years and have visited Niagara Falls so many times that I’ve actually stopped counting.
So, I’ve done all the awesome and not-so-awesome things to do in Niagara Falls. As a result, I can absolutely tell you which tourist traps to stay away from and which attractions are the coolest things to do in Niagara Falls.
Therefore, dear beautiful reader, step away from the generic AF guidebook and use this expert local guide instead as you plan a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Niagara Falls.
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Not sure what to do in Niagara Falls? ✈️ Then book this Niagara Falls Helicopter Ride Tour for stunning views and a truly memorable experience. 😃
Table of Contents
Unique Things to do in Niagara Falls
1. Maid of the Mist Boat Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (5,892 Reviews) Price: $129.95 per person Duration: 4.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Varies or Hotel Pick Up Details: Read more on Viator Now!
If you want to get as close as possible to Niagara Falls, a ride aboard the Maid of the Mist should be on top of your Niagara Falls itinerary.
In fact, this experience is one of many reasons why you should visit Niagara Falls.
Plus, thousands of people come here annually to experience the thrilling and raw power of this incredible natural landmark.
So, book a tour combining the Maid of the Mist with other Niagara Falls attractions, like the Cave of the Winds.
Because this tour of the NY side of Niagara Falls starts with an elevator ride down into the Niagara Gorge, where you’ll get within a few feet of the Bridal Veil Falls in the Cave of the Winds.
Then another elevator ride will take you to the top of Prospect Point Observation Tower for a fantastic panoramic view of all three waterfalls.
Finally, you’ll board the Maid of the Mist, which will take you close to the edge of North America’s most powerful waterfall, Horseshoe Falls.
And when the Maid of the Mist isn’t running, The Niagara Legends of Adventure Movie replaces this part of the tour.
“In addition to all the wonders we saw and the places we visited, Marty (our tour specialist) brought the sightseeing to life. He is a wealth of knowledge, super funny, and shows great pride in his trade, his town, and the company he represents.”
William (read more reviews now)
In fact, these Niagara Falls attraction packages will get you as close as possible to the Falls from two different angles.
It’s a truly breathtaking experience, making this tour one of the most unique things to do in Niagara Falls.
However, if you want can also book a Maid of the Mist tour from the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.
Local Tip: FYI the Canadian side is infinitely better than the American side.
| Pros | Cons |
| Hassle-free tour, including hotel pick-up | Maid of the Mist only runs between early May and late October |
| Visit several Niagara Falls attractions in one tour | Can get very busy during peak season |
| See the Falls from two different viewpoints | Not wheelchair accessible |
2. Niagara Falls Helicopter Ride
⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (337 Reviews) Price: $137.37 per person Duration: 12 Minutes 📍Meeting Point: Victoria Avenue Heliport Operator: Niagara Helicopter Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
A helicopter ride over the Falls is one of the most popular Niagara Falls activities, and you can book Niagara Falls tours by helicopter from both sides of the Falls.
It’s an exciting way to experience the Falls, allowing you to get up close for breathtaking views of the cascading waters.
Therefore, this is an exciting adventure that’s not to be missed as you enjoy one of the most unique things to do in Niagara Falls.
Now, on this tour, you’ll enjoy 12 minutes on board an Airbus H130, which seats up to 7 passengers and has large windows that will help you enjoy the spectacular views.
Plus, each passenger gets a headset to listen to your pilot as they point out landmarks while you fly overhead.
You’ll then journey along the River Niagara, gliding past places near Niagara Falls like Queen Victoria Park and the Skylon Tower before reaching the Falls themselves.
“Wow wow ! An absolute lifetime experience & the best way to see the falls for sure, i done this with my partner & my eight year old son, we were lucky to have such a gorgeous clear day, all the staff were superb explaining everything to us what to expect etc. We got fabulous pictures & a few videos. We will not forget this experience for sure, definitely worth every penny & would recommend it as the best way to see & experience the Canadian & American falls.”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
You’ll then soar past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the cascading Horseshoe Falls with rainbows visible in every direction.
And as you head back towards the heliport, you might also spot the Toronto skyline to the north and Lake Erie to the south.
| Pros | Cons |
| Get a closer view than on an airplane tour | Noise in the cabin can make it hard to hear the commentary |
| Multilingual audio commentary is available | Can be tricky to see if you get the middle seat |
| Flexible flight time allows you to fly when the weather is best |
3. Airplane Tour of the Niagara Area
⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (14 Reviews) Price: $121.20 per person Duration: 30 minutes 📍Meeting Point: Main Terminal of Niagara District Airport. Operator: Niagara Falls Air Tours Inc. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
An airplane tour is another option if you want an aerial view of Niagara Falls and offers more comfort than some of the best helicopter tours in Niagara Falls.
Now, most airplane tours of the Niagara region last around 30 minutes, which allows you to really soak in the breathtaking views.
And this mega epic tour will have you hop aboard a Cessna aircraft with a highly-experienced pilot, who will know exactly how to give you the best possible views of the Gorge.
“Excellent experience! Terrific pilot! Great commentary from a recording along the way! Views were spectacular!”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
You’ll also see at least 10 of the most famous historical and geological sites in the Niagara Region, including Fort Niagara, the 4000-year-old Niagara Whirlpool, the Hydro Power Dams, and of course, the Niagara Falls.
And tp help you get the most out of your tour, you’ll be provided with an audio guide that will help you see all of the incredible landmarks beneath.
And, added bonus? Your tour also includes celebratory champagne and chocolates for an extra special trip that is surely one of the best things to do in Niagara Falls. Just be sure to adjust your Niagara Falls packing list accordingly.
| Pros | Cons |
| More air-time than most helicopter tours | Not wheelchair accessible |
| A more comfortable flight than helicopter tours | Not suitable for people over 250 lbs (113 kg) or people with motion sickness |
| In-flight commentary helps you get the most from your time in the air |
4. The Skylon Tower
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (607 Reviews) Price: $16.30 per person Duration: Valid 1 Day 📍Meeting Point: Meet at the Tower Operator: Skylon Tower Niagara Falls Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
If you’re visiting the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, the view from the top of the Skylon Tower is a must-see.
And that makes sense since this 775-foot tall (236 meters) observation deck allows for amazing panoramic views for almost 80 miles in every direction, making this one of the best places to see Niagara Falls.
And you can complete your visit with a meal at the Revolving Dining Room or the Summit Suite Buffet restaurant.
However, you’ll start your visit by taking a 52-second ‘Ride to the Top’ of the Skylon Tower in a glass elevator.
Then, once at the summit, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the surrounding area from the indoor and outdoor observation decks.
“Fantastic way to see both the Canadian & American falls from high above, we chose a time just before sunset, to get beautiful pictures & also to see the falls at night. There’s a nice little souvenir shop up at the observation deck. When we went up it was very windy & quite chilly so make sure you are wrapped up, would definitely recommend to visit.”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
However, it can get pretty chilly on the outdoor deck, so remember to bring a jacket or hoodie with you.
Then, from the top of the Skylon Tower, you can see Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Niagara River Gorge.
Also, during the day you can take in views over the surrounding Niagara wine region and maybe even see as far as the skyscrapers that tower over Toronto and Buffalo.
Plus, if you plan your Skylon Tower visit for the end of the day, you’ll have the chance to see the Falls lit up in a variety of colors or watch seasonal fireworks displays before enjoying the best pizza in Niagara Falls.
| Pros | Cons |
| Incredible panoramic views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area | Separate reservations are needed for the restaurants (not included in the tour price) |
| Flexible-date tickets are valid for seven days from your booked date | The Skylon Tower gets very busy in peak season; visit early morning or late afternoon to beat the crowds |
| This experience won’t be affected by bad weather |
5. Niagara SkyWheel
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (305 Reviews) Price: $12.98 per person Duration: 8-10 minutes 📍Meeting Point: Niagara SkyWheel Details: Read more on Viator Now!
The best place to get an aerial view of Niagara Falls is from atop the Niagara SkyWheel since it will give you an awesome view from 175 feet (53 meters) in the air.
In fact, this giant Ferris wheel is the largest observation wheel in Canada, and features climate-controlled, enclosed gondolas that will give you fantastic views in every direction.
“Sky wheel was a great fun experience for everyone. Staff where friendly and helpfull. Zero line up, and 3 full rotations stopped at the top and got great views of Niagra.”
Karen (read more reviews now)
Now, your 10-minute ride will take you through two revolutions of the wheel, and there’s an optional narration throughout your ride.
So, from the safety and comfort of your cabin, you’ll be able to see the American and Horseshoe Falls, the Niagara Parks, and other local landmarks too.
Plus, on a clear day you can see the Niagara City skyline from the top of the wheel. And at night you may even see a firework display too. So, be sure to take your camera to capture these unforgettable views!
| Pros | Cons |
| Great value for money | This experience may be canceled in poor weather |
| A comfortable way to view the Falls from the air | |
| Cabins are heated in winter and cooled in summer |
6. Niagara River Gorge Zipline
⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5.0 (1183 Reviews) Price: $62.13 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Meet at Zipline To The Falls Operator: WildPlay Niagara Falls Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
If you would prefer a slightly more high-adrenaline tour then try this 2,200-foot-long (670 meters) zipline across the Niagara River Gorge.
Yeah, it’s easily one of the most unique things to do in Niagara Falls since it allows you to see the Falls from 220 feet (67 meters) in the air.
It’s a magical ride that takes you all the way from the American Falls to the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
Additionally, you’ll enjoy panoramic gorge views during this brief but exhilarating ride.
Plus, booking your tour online allows you to skip the lines before being fully equipped with a helmet and a comfortable safety harness.
“It was like cherry on top for my vacation. The zip line experience made everything worth it. I was very scared at the beginning but the staff was very friendly and made me understand all the steps and rules. Please book online as I did in advance to avoid queues and waiting .My daughter was scared to go but the moment we get down , she was willing to take another ride. Thank you team for a thrilling and awesome experience.”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
Then, after your safety briefing, you can sit back and relax as you glide past the Falls.
Finally, at the end of your ride, you’ll be driven back to the starting point. Oh, and there’s no need to worry about storing your belongings since the safety harness comes with a secure storage pouch.
Just be aware that this trip isn’t for the faint-hearted. But, it’s certainly a unique way to view these awe-inspiring Falls.
| Pros | Cons |
| Skip the queues with pre-booked time slots | Not suitable for children under 7 years old or pregnant women |
| A thrilling way to see the Falls from a unique viewpoint | Can get very busy in peak season, so book for early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds |
| Excellent safety procedures | |
| Wheelchair accessible |
7. Cave of the Winds
⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (68 Reviews) Price: $104.99 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍Meeting Point: Hard Rock Cafe at 333 Prospect Street Operator: Niagara Falls Adventures Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Cave of the Winds was a rock overhang that became one the most popular Niagara Falls tourist attractions in the 1800s, taking visitors right underneath Bridal Veil Falls itself.
However, the overhang collapsed in the 1920s, although the attraction remains popular.
Therefore, you can purchase tickets for the Cave of the Winds Plaza on Goat Island, or combine it with other activities when you book a Niagara Falls attraction package tour.
Now, on this tour, you will start your experience with a boat trip on the Maid of the Mist, cruising past both American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls on your way to Horseshoe Falls.
You’ll also love that a complimentary poncho will keep you dry from the spray of the waterfall.
Then, once you’re back on dry land your guide will take you to the top of the Niagara Falls Observation Tower for a fantastic panoramic view of the area.
“We normally don’t do guided tours. We like to explore on our own. But decided to do so this time. Glad we did. Darin, our tour guide was great. Very knowledgeable about the history of Niagara Falls. Not to mention he has a great and fun personality. Thanks a bunch!!!!”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
Finally, you’ll be given your tickets for the Niagara Falls Trolley, which will take you on a short journey to the Cave of the Winds.
FYI, you’ll need that poncho again as you take an elevator ride 150 feet down into Niagara Gorge and get up close and personal with Bridal Veil Falls.
Yup, the water crashes down right in front of you and flows beneath the boardwalk you’re standing on. It’s a truly exhilarating experience!
| Pros | Cons |
| Experience four popular Niagara Falls attractions in one day | Not suitable for people with some medical conditions |
| Booked time slots allow you to skip the queues | Some areas of the Cave are not accessible between mid-October and mid-May |
| Added insight into the attractions from your guide |
8. Niagara Falls Winery Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (90 Reviews) Price: $129 per person Duration: 4/5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Your Hotel Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
The Niagara Falls area offers a cool microclimate and long summer days that make it ideal for growing grapes.
So, if you are interested in wine-making, there are plenty of interesting places to visit near Niagara Falls, regardless of whether you want to visit the Canadian or US side of the Falls.
After all, Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to over 50 wineries, including some of Canada’s oldest vineyards.
And then the popular Niagara Wine Trail on the NY side of Niagara Falls features 11 wineries that create wines like Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc.
“The best part for the tour was at the Bella Rose winery where the owner talked about the whole process of making wine from dirt to bottle. It’s was the best experience I’ve ever had at a winery.”
Jesse (read more reviews now)
Therefore, a guided tour is the perfect way to explore Niagara Falls’ wineries because your tour leader will do all the driving, leaving you free to sample as many wines as you like.
And on this tour, your knowledgeable guide will take you through the scenic New York countryside to four incredible wineries.
You’ll also meet the owners who create the wines, learn about the wine-making process, and sample a ton of uber-awesome wines for yourself.
Plus, expert tasting tips ensure you get the most out of your visit to one of the best Niagara wineries of them all.
| Pros | Cons |
| Samples included at each winery | Experience requires a minimum number to go ahead |
| Small group tour | Risk of cancellation if weather is unsuitable |
| Flexible start times and pick-up locations | |
| Private air-conditioned vehicle |
9. The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory
The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is the largest butterfly conservatory in North America, with over 2000 brightly colored butterflies on display.
So, a visit to this peaceful oasis will take you along winding paths through a rainforest filled with tropical flowers and lush vegetation.
So, vibrant butterflies will flutter past you and may even land on you. If you’re fortunate enough, you might even see some butterflies at the precise moment they hatch.
As a result, the Butterfly Conservatory is one of the best places to visit in Niagara Falls, and it’s easy to combine your stop here with a visit to the nearby Botanical Garden or Queen Victoria Park.
10. Old Fort Niagara
This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Niagara Falls. After all, Old Fort Niagara is an 18th-century French fort in Youngstown, NY, built where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario.
Therefore it’s easy to reach by car, or you can take a free shuttle bus from the Falls to one of the best castles in New York.
And you really need to stop by since a visit to Old Fort Niagara is like stepping back in time.
Yeah, it’s a fantastic day out that shows you how life would have been like in a frontier fort in the 1700s.
If you want you can even tour original 18th-century buildings, see artisans at work, watch musket-firing demonstrations, and learn about frontier life through the Fort’s living history demonstrations.
Not sure what to do in Niagara Falls? ✈️ Then book this Niagara Falls Helicopter Ride Tour for stunning views and a truly memorable experience. 😃
Map of Unique Things to do in Niagara Falls
Unique Things to do in Niagara Falls FAQ
What Else Can I Do at Niagara Falls?
Some of the best things to do in Niagara Falls are:
- Niagara Falls State Park
- Cave of the Winds
- Old Fort Niagara
- Maid of the Mist
- Niagara Gorge Hiking Trails
- Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruise
- Wine Tour of Niagara Falls
What is the Most Exciting Thing about Niagara Falls?
One of the coolest things about Niagara Falls is that water here falls at a rate of 32 feet per second.
Therefore, water at the American Falls hits the ground with 2800 tons of force at the American Falls/Bridal Veil Falls and with 2,509 tons of force at Horseshoe Falls.
Additionally, Niagara Falls can also create upwards of 4 million kilowatts of electricity.
What Features Make Niagara Falls Unique?
What’s unique about Niagara Falls is the sheer amount of water that falls over the top.
Because believe it or not most of the biggest waterfalls in the world don’t have a high volume of water cascading down to the ground.
What is Special in Niagara?
Niagara is special because it’s beautiful, it’s a major source of hydroelectric power and is used for various recreational/industrial/commercial purposes.
And if you visit during the best time to go to Niagara Falls then you can see incredible fall foliage too.
Additional New York Resources You’ll Love
There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the most unique things to do in Niagara Falls.
Tell me, did your picks for cool things to do in Niagara Falls make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.
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