The breadth of experiences in Niagara begins with the massive falls and expands from there. Christina Marcotte, travel trade manager for Niagara Falls Tourism in Ontario, offers several suggestions. (Names of NTA members include links.)
Iconic experiences for groups include Hornblower Niagara Cruises, Journey Behind the Falls, the Skylon Tower, WildPlay Zipline to the Falls, and the Clifton Hill district with its Niagara Skywheel. “Beyond the waterfalls, groups take advantage of the impressive live theater lineup, which includes Oh Canada Eh! Dinner Theatre, The Grand Champion of Magic at the Greg Frewin Theatre and the world-renowned Shaw Festival,” Marcotte says.
Visitors can also opt for a day trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake, which is home to more than 100 wineries and breweries, many fruit orchards, a quaint downtown and outlet shopping.
Niagara Falls has been a tourist destination since the early 1800s, yet its steady stream of new attractions means every visit can be different than the last.
“Returning visitors can get a bird’s-eye view of the falls on an epic tour with Niagara Helicopters, or they can or go for a wet and wild ride through the Niagara River rapids with Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours,” Marcotte says. “For those visiting this summer, check out Night Lights: Journey Behind the Falls After Dark, an experience that give you a spectacular view of the illumination and fireworks show from the base of Horseshoe Falls.”
Niagara Falls during winter is a whole other experience, according to Marcotte.
“It’s my favorite time of year to see the falls—truly breathtaking,” she says. “While the waterfalls themselves never freeze, icicles frame the bordering edges, and frozen mist blankets surrounding trees, creating a unique winter wonderland.”
Marcotte adds that hotels also have a bit more flexibility during the winter months, and there’s no need to worry about long lines at key attractions.
For more information, email Marcotte or visit fallstraveltrade.com.
Note: On the U.S. side, operators can work with Tina Mt. Pleasant of Destination Niagara USA and Tim Ruddy of Maid of the Mist.
Photo by Niagara Falls Tourism
Support for Courier articles provided by:
Maid of the Mist
Mirvish Productions
Niagara Parks
