Make memories you’ll never forget with your whole family — from the little ones to the grandparents — on a fun-filled trip to Niagara Falls USA.
Fall for the Falls
Get your family vacation started off on the right foot by visiting the Falls first. Once you arrive at Niagara State Falls Park, make your way to the Observation Tower for a panoramic view of all three waterfalls. Then, it’s time to get even closer to the action. Take the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour, which has been operating since 1846 — expect to get seriously drenched underneath those famous plastic ponchos. The thrill seekers in your family will love Cave of the Winds, where you descend 175 feet into Niagara Gorge. After exiting the elevator, you’ll make your way onto a series of wooden walkways where you are within feet of the awesome crashing water of the Bridal Veil Falls. Now, that you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the (seasonal) Top of the Falls restaurant for jaw-dropping views and a delicious dinner. End the evening by witnessing the illumination of the Falls, which is not to be missed!
Animals & Adventure
Aquariums are fun for the whole family, and the Aquarium of Niagara has recently added new exhibits and animals. Check the schedule to reserve a spot before you come to enjoy the daily penguin feedings and sea lion shows. After doing something educational (albeit fun!), you might feel like your kids are climbing the walls — so let them! The Niagara Climbing Center is Niagara Falls’ only indoor rock climbing gym and is open to all ages. (If you’d prefer something even more adrenaline-pumping, consider a high-speed cruise into the Niagara Gorge on a jet boat.) Reward your adventurers with a meal at The Griffon Gastropub, where comfort food with a creative twist is sure to be a hit with the whole crew. (The adults will enjoy the selection of 50 beers from around the world.)
Lakeside History
Venture up to the shores of Lake Ontario to take a step back in time at the beloved (seasonal) Olcott Beach Carousel Park. Featuring an original 1928 Herschell-Spillman carousel (manufactured locally), the vintage children’s rides are all 25 cents. Take your chances in the vintage arcade at games like skee ball and then head to the shores to walk alongside the lake. Before making your way back to Niagara Falls, make a stop at Old Fort Niagara for a fun-filled history lesson and plenty of panoramic Lake Ontario views.
Experience the Erie Canal
The opening of the Erie Canal is a defining moment in the development of the region. You can explore it with your family from below, or on the water above. The Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride in Lockport takes you underneath the Erie Canal to discover the caves below, still dotted with items left behind by the miners who built it. Or you can sail along the waters of the canal on a Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruise, where you’ll cruise through the only double set on the Erie Canal and below the widest bridge in the country. End your journey back in the Falls, rehashing all your adventures over an iconic New York-style pizza dinner.
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