Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, attracting millions of visitors every year who come to see the majestic waterfalls and enjoy the many attractions around them. But if you’re looking for something different, something that goes beyond the usual clichés and crowds, you’ll be surprised to find out that Niagara Falls has a lot more to offer. Here are 10 under-the-radar experiences that you can have in Niagara Falls Ontario.
Meet your rock idols in wax
If you’re a fan of rock music, you’ll love this museum that features over 70 wax figures of rock icons, from David Bowie to Kurt Cobain. Each figure was handcrafted by Pasquale Ramunno, a senior citizen who doesn’t even like rock music. The museum also plays the music of each artist in the background, creating a unique atmosphere. You can also check out the gift shop for some rare rock memorabilia.
Experience the power of the falls from behind
One of the most thrilling ways to experience the falls is to go behind them and feel their thunderous vibration. At Journey Behind the Falls, you’ll descend 125 feet by elevator and explore 130-year-old tunnels that lead to two outdoor observation decks and two portals located directly behind the Horseshoe Falls. You’ll also get a free souvenir biodegradable rain poncho to protect you from the mist of the falls.
Explore the weird and wonderful world of Ripley’s
Ripley’s is a classic attraction for anyone who loves weird and wonderful things. The Niagara Falls location has recently been renovated and now features three floors of crazy exhibits, such as shrunken heads, vampire skulls, two-headed animals, and more. You can also enjoy a laser tag attraction and an interactive theater.
Stay at a hotel with a stunning view of the falls
If you want to splurge on a hotel with an amazing view of the falls, look no further than the Marriott Gateway on the Falls. This hotel offers special “Falls-View” rooms that overlook the rushing waters and the rainbow that forms over them. The hotel is also centrally located, making it easy to explore the area on foot.
Hear the screams of a ghostly girl
If you’re feeling adventurous and don’t mind a bit of spookiness, you can visit the Screaming Tunnel, a haunted passage that was once used by farmers to transport their animals under the railway. According to legend, anyone who lights a candle inside the tunnel will hear the screams of a girl who died there in a fire. Do you dare to try it?
Discover some hidden waterfalls off the beaten track
If you love nature and hiking, you can escape the crowds and head to Short Hills, a nature park that covers 670 hectares and is home to many birds and deer. The park also has several hiking trails that lead to some hidden waterfalls that are not as famous as the main ones, but still very beautiful and peaceful.
Explore the Niagara Glen
If you love nature and hiking, you’ll enjoy exploring the Niagara Glen, a pristine pocket of Carolinian forest along the Niagara River. The Glen offers 4 km of trails that wind through the rugged terrain, where you can see ancient fossils, unique rock formations, and diverse flora and fauna. You’ll also get stunning views of the river and the Niagara Whirlpool, a natural phenomenon where the water swirls in a circular motion.
Ride the Whirlpool Aero Car
For a thrilling aerial adventure, hop on the Whirlpool Aero Car, a cable car that crosses the Niagara River above the Whirlpool. The ride lasts about 10 minutes and gives you a bird’s eye view of the swirling waters below. The Aero Car has been operating since 1916 and can carry up to 35 passengers at a time. It’s a unique way to experience the power and beauty of nature.
Walk among thousands of butterflies in the Butterfly Conservatory
If you’re looking for a serene and colourful escape, head to the Butterfly Conservatory, where you can walk among thousands of butterflies in a tropical environment. The conservatory features over 45 species of butterflies from around the world, as well as exotic plants, flowers, and waterfalls. You can also learn more about the life cycle and behaviour of these fascinating insects at the educational exhibits.
Admire the Floral Showhouse
Another place to enjoy some floral beauty is the Floral Showhouse, a greenhouse that showcases seasonal displays of orchids, succulents, tropical plants, and more. The showhouse has been operating since 1945 and changes its theme every few weeks to reflect the seasons and holidays. You can also see some rare and exotic birds in the aviary, as well as outdoor gardens and fountains.
Take the Niagara Falls Incline Railway
If you want to save some time and energy while exploring Niagara Falls, you can take the Niagara Falls Incline Railway, a funicular that connects the Table Rock Centre near the falls with the Fallsview Tourist Area above. The railway runs every few minutes and offers panoramic views of the falls and the river. It’s also wheelchair accessible and operates all year round.
Experience Niagara Fury
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experience Niagara Fury, a 4D attraction that simulates the creation of Niagara Falls. You’ll watch an animated film that tells the story of how the falls were formed over thousands of years, then enter a circular theatre where you’ll feel the wind, water, and temperature changes as you witness the falls in action. It’s a fun and educational way to learn about the history and geology of Niagara Falls.
Ride the Niagara SkyWheel
For a relaxing and scenic ride, hop on the Niagara SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers spectacular views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area. The SkyWheel has 42 climate-controlled gondolas that can seat up to six people each. The ride lasts about 15 minutes and reaches a height of 53 metres. It’s a great way to see the falls from a different perspective, especially at night when they are illuminated.
