Niagara Falls with Kids: Our Picks for Fun

From teensy tots to teens, here are our picks for the must-dos on your family vacation.

Planning a trip to Niagara Falls with kids can be stressful. Luckily, Niagara Falls USA has a host of family-friendly activities for the youngsters in your life. From toddlers to teens, this age-by-age guide will help you make the most of your family trip to the Falls.

TOP SPOTS FOR TODDLERS

Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum

Did you know original carousel horses were carved by hand? Take a spin on an authentic 1916 carnival icon and see master craftsmen create new horse teams at Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum. Next, head outdoors to the Kiddieland Testing Park Exhibit and ride four vintage kiddie rides from the factory’s postwar, baby boom era.

Aquarium of Niagara

Niagara Falls is home to more than one water wonder, you know! The Aquarium of Niagara allows nature lovers of all ages to get within splashing distance of some of the world’s most loved marine mammals. What makes this facility extra cool? From seals to curious penguins, many animals at the aquarium are rescues. This rescue facility accepts animals with all conditions, many of which your little ones can meet, touch, and feed during the behind-the-scenes Seal Encounter in the Rescue Harbor.

SCHOOL-AGE APPEAL

NYPA-Niagara Power Vista

Whether the kid in your life is a science whiz, a geology geek or simply fascinated with how the world ticks, the Niagara Power Vista is sure to wow! The fun-filled educational center located just yards from the Niagara River takes visitors on a virtual ride through the wonder’s mighty journey, from one identity (global tourism attraction) to another (electricity powerhouse)!

Challenger Learning Center

Blast off! The Challenger Learning Center in Lockport offers a variety of space exploration activities, including a space mission simulator and a planetarium. After a day of thrills, chill out at the nearby Lake Effect Artisan Ice Cream and enjoy handcrafted ice cream flavors like Frozen Hot Chocolate, Silver Cloud Vanilla, and Big Wayne’s Cake Batter.

TWEEN AND TEEN FUN

Niagara Climbing Center

If your kids have graduated beyond the jungle gym, show them the ropes of the Niagara Climbing Center. Located in North Tonawanda (just 10 miles south of the Falls), the NCC offers 6,000 square feet of indoor fun with climbing walls serving up the perfect combo of physical fun and mental agility. Visitors of all levels (and ages!) are welcome, and there are also special rates for kids younger than 7.

Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA

In a dizzying world of attractions, many teens and tweens (and adults) simply need a little mall time. And the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA, with its mezzanines of street-cred traders from Kate Spade to Banana Republic, is likely to impress them. Kids will find the food options pretty on point, too.