Niagara Falls, Canada has achieved a remarkable feat by securing a spot on National Geographic’s prestigious ‘Best of the World’ list for 2024. This renowned destination, famous for its stunning natural wonders, particularly stands out as the premier location for observing the upcoming total solar eclipse.
The selection places Niagara Falls in the coveted “Top 20 Travel Experiences” category, highlighting its significance as a must-visit destination. In the realm of celestial events, the Total Solar Eclipse in Niagara Falls proudly claims the 11th spot among the world’s best experiences.
National Geographic’s comprehensive ‘Best of the World 2024’ list is a collaborative effort involving international editorial teams. Niagara Falls, Canada, with its breathtaking eclipse viewing, has captured the attention of millions of readers worldwide.
Janice Thomson, President and CEO of Niagara Falls Tourism, expressed excitement about the recognition. She said, “Niagara Falls is globally renowned for creating unforgettable memories. We are ready to extend our warm hospitality to guests visiting one of the world’s top locations to witness the Eclipse. This rare and special moment, where one wonder aligns with another, promises to be a memorable event for all attendees.”
Quick Facts about the Total Solar Eclipse in Niagara Falls:
Dates/Times: Monday, April 8, 2024 – Begins: 2:04 p.m. | Maximum Eclipse: 3:20 p.m. | Ends: 4:32 p.m. (3 minutes duration of totality, 2.5 hrs. start to finish)
Best Views: Niagara River Parkway, Table Rock Centre, Skylon Tower, Niagara SkyWheel
Niagara Falls Tourism is gearing up to welcome visitors to this extraordinary celestial event, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a location that’s on everyone’s bucket list. As one of the prime spots to witness the eclipse, Niagara Falls is anticipated to draw a significant crowd eager to catch the 3 minutes of darkness beginning at 3:18 p.m.
With the last total solar eclipse in Niagara Falls dating back to 1925, and the next expected in 2144, this upcoming event holds historic significance. Stay tuned for a detailed events schedule in the coming weeks, and Niagara Falls Tourism encourages all visitors to plan their stay for maximum enjoyment. Get ready to witness the magic of the skies in one of the world’s most spectacular settings.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has revealed an exciting collaboration between the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, alongside various tourism partners in Niagara Falls, and NASA for the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024. This celestial spectacle is expected to draw thousands to the Niagara Falls area.
The event will feature programming and exhibits by NASA experts, scientists, and astronauts at various locations across the city, including Niagara Falls Public Libraries, The Underground Railroad Heritage Center, The Aquarium of Niagara, the New York Power Authority Power Vista, the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute, and Niagara Falls State Park. All activities will be free and open to the public, with reservations potentially required based on space availability.
Governor Hochul expressed excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the unique natural backdrop that Niagara Falls provides for this extraordinary event. The programming by NASA aims to engage and educate the local community, inspiring the next generation of explorers, scientists, and engineers.
In preparation for the event, a task force comprising state agencies and authorities, along with various government levels, has been formed to ensure the health and safety of attendees. This collaborative effort involves studying past eclipse events, focusing on aspects like communications, traffic control, planning, marketing, and education. New York State will provide logistical support and manage its assets, including parks and roads.
State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid highlighted the significance of working with NASA for this unique experience, anticipating an influx of visitors to the city. Destination Niagara’s President and CEO, John Percy, emphasized Niagara Falls USA as the preeminent location for viewing the total solar eclipse due to its natural beauty.
State Senator Rob Ortt and Assemblymember Angelo Morinello expressed excitement about the rare event and NASA’s involvement, anticipating unforgettable experiences for the local community and visitors.
Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino expressed gratitude to Governor Hochul for recognizing Niagara Falls as the perfect location for this spectacular natural wonder.
The New York Power Authority’s Niagara Power Vista, as NASA’s last designated “sun spot” before the eclipse moves into Canada, is enthusiastic about its collaborative programming with NASA and NYS Parks to support this unique viewing and education opportunity.
Niagara County Community College President William Murabito looks forward to hosting NASA at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute, considering it an ideal site for this partnership.
The eclipse in Niagara Falls is set to begin at 2:04 pm, with full totality starting at 3:18 pm and lasting 3 minutes and 31 seconds.
Programming details for Niagara Falls will be updated on the official website, and information on events across New York State can be found at I Love NY’s events page.
The ice boom on the Niagara River began its retreat recently which means that the opening of Niagara City Cruises (Hornbower on the Canadian side), and the Maid of the Mist (US side) is here!
Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) opens March 28th, 2024 for the season and the Maid of the Mist is tentatively opening April 4th, 2024 with bookable dates starting now.
Both of these Niagara Falls Boat Tours are tremendously popular tourist attractions and are not to be missed this Spring!
Continue reading to review the timeline of the original Maid of the Mist boat tour (North America’s oldest tourist attraction), progressing to our current date which includes the addition of the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) boat tours.
1846 – The Maid of the Mist Ferry Service Launched
Crossing the Niagara River in order to transport people was unheard of until the introduction of small boats in 1834. On May 27th, 1846, the very first Maid of the Mist boat was first introduced, but not as a tourist attraction. It ferried people, cargo, and mail across the river for a small fee. However, making money in this regard was short-lived after the first Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge was completed.
1848 saw a temporary bridge introduced, and in 1854 a lower deck was opened for pedestrian and carriage purposes. Taking money away from the ferry, it was decided to turn the Maid of the Mist into a tourist attraction, allowing people to get as close to the Falls as possible.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour – 1st Generation (1854-1860)
On July 14th, 1854, a new Maid of the Mist was launched. This one was 72 feet long and featured a paddle boat engine rather than a sidewheel steam engine.
With business dwindling mainly as the result of the onslaught of the American Civil War (1861-1865), the boat was sold at a public auction to a Montreal firm in 1861.
However, the boat had to be successfully delivered to Lake Ontario, which meant it had to be navigated through the Great Gorge Rapids, the Whirlpool, and the Lower Rapids.
Captain Robinson undertook the frightening task on June 6th, 1861, and successfully made it through the rapids (although lost the smoke stack in the process).
Service was not restored until 1885 under a new partnership: The Maid of the Mist Steamboat Company.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 2nd Generation: 1885 – 1955
The second generation Maid of the Mist was launched in June of 1885 which reached closer to the Horseshoe Falls than its previous counterparts.
Then, an additional boat was unveiled in 1892 on the American side. These boats sailed until April 22, 1955, when they burned in an accident on the Canadian side.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 3rd Generation (1955 – 1990)
On July 28th, 1955, a third generation Maid of the Mist I (1955–1990) was introduced to replace the destroyed vessels — this time, it was made of steel and powered by diesel engines.
In June 1956, an additional Maid of the Mist steel boat was added to the fleet and was christened the Maid of the Mist II (1956 – 1983)
On July 9th, 1960 the Maid of the Mist II contributed to the heroic saving of 7 year old Roger Woodward, the boy who became the first person to survive a plunge over the Horseshoe Falls wearing only a life jacket. The Maid of the Mist II was just making its turn below the Falls when a crew member spotted the boy.
Captain Clifford Keech maneuvered the boat so the crew could successfully save Roger, who luckily only sustained a minor concession, and was in hospital for only 3 days. In 1983, the Maid of the Mist II was sold and it served as a Missionary ship on the Amazon River.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 4th Generation (1972 – Now)
Maid of the Mist III: 1972–1997
Maid of the Mist III takes to the water, carrying 210 passengers. This boat is a 65-foot-long, 65-ton vessel powered by two 250-horsepower diesel engines.
Maid of the Mist IV: 1976-2013
Maid of the Mist IV, a 300-passenger boat, is introduced. The new boat is 72 feet long, 24 feet wide, weighs 74 tons and is powered by two 250-horsepower diesel engines.
Maid of the Mist V: 1983-2013
Maid of the Mist V gives passengers the thrill of their lives. It’s all steel, 72 feet long, weighs 74 tons and powered by two 335-horsepower diesel engines to safely carry 300 passengers.
Maid of the Mist VI: 1990 – Present
In 1990, the Maid of the Mist VI was launched into service. The 145 tonne, 80 foot all steel double deck boat is capable of carrying 600 passengers at a time!
This made it the 10th Maid of the Mist boat to contribute to the Niagara Falls Boat Tours — and the largest, which is still running today. Accompanying boat VI was the addition of the Maid of the Mist VII on July 11th, 1997 (also still running today) at 80 feet and with the capacity to carry 600 passengers as well.
New York State Governor Saves the Maid in Late 2012
On December 4th, 2012, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo visited Niagara Falls, New York to make a major announcement: An agreement between Cuomo’s administration and the Maid of the Mist calls for the company to pay for $32 million in upgrades near the site of the former Schoellkopf power plant to turn the area into a winter storage dock for its two-boat American fleet.
On Thursday, October 26th, 2013, the Maid of the Mist did its final boat tour on the Canadian side. The business continues to operate from the US side of the gorge and departs from its dock just beyond the Rainbow Bridge. The Canadian side was replaced by Hornblower Niagara Cruises, a California-based company at the start of Spring of 2014.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 5th Generation (Launched 2019)
New-build emission-free vessels was launched during 2019 season
In 2019, the Maid of the Mist launched the first two new all-electric, zero-emission passenger vessels constructed in the United States. The new catamaran-style vessels will provide more than 1.6 million guests from around the world with an up-close, iconic view of Niagara Falls. The vessels feature a wide stance, resulting in a smooth, quiet ride, allowing them to better enjoy the roar and majesty of Niagara Falls.
ABB, a pioneering technology leader in digital industries, will supply a comprehensive integrated power and propulsion solution for the newbuild vessels, including lithium-ion battery packs and an onshore charging system, enabling sustainable operation with maximum reliability.
Powered by ABB’s zero-emission technology, the two fully-electric vessels will take tourists to the heart of the Niagara Falls, undisturbed by engine noise or exhaust fumes. Batteries will be recharged for seven minutes after each trip to 80 percent capacity, allowing for maximum efficiency and battery life.
Maid of the Mist VI (1990) and Maid of the Mist VII (1997), were removed from service when the new vessels began operating.
Niagara City Cruises (Formery Hornblower): Launched in 2014
Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) offers two catamarans that carry approximately 700 people, and a third charter boat reserved specifically for private functions that carries approximately 150 passengers.
The Niagara City Cruises official ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Wednesday, May 14th, 2014 which showcased speeches by the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) CEO, Terry MacRae, Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati, Mory DiMaurizo, General Manager of Niagara Cruises and the Niagara Parks Commission chair, Janice Thomson. It officially opened the following day to excited crowds.
Wearing their red ponchos, locals and tourists alike flocked the Niagara City Cruise Plaza to become a part of history on its grand opening day. The distinct differentiation between the Niagara City Cruises and the Maid of the Mist docked on the US side, is the swarm of customers wearing red (Niagara City Cruises) and blue (Maid of the Mist) ponchos. Both these Niagara Falls boat tours are anticipating another exciting season. This past Winter season saw far less ice form on Lake Erie, which flows into the Niagara River. With the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) running and Maid of the Mist soon to launch in April.
This is the 9th season for Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower), and — wait for it — the 177th year for Maid of the Mist.
Niagara Parks and local municipalities are getting ready for the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024, by implementing a comprehensive traffic management and safety plan. With road closures set to take effect across Niagara Parks properties, the City of Niagara Falls, and the Town of Fort Erie, guests are advised to plan ahead for potential traffic delays and changes to their usual routes.
Here are some important points regarding road closures and transportation for the upcoming total solar eclipse:
Road closures will affect Niagara Parks properties, the City of Niagara Falls, and Town of Fort Erie on Monday, April 8.
Expect traffic delays, so it’s advisable for guests to plan their travel in advance.
Police have the authority to adjust road closures as needed for safety reasons.
There are parking lots available throughout the destination, including the Rapidsview Parking Lot, which offers a dedicated WEGO Shuttle service to the Falls.
Access to boat launches will be restricted on Monday, April 8.
The eclipse, projected to occur around 3:18 p.m., will be a major draw for visitors eager to witness this rare celestial event, especially as it unfolds over the iconic Niagara Falls. In anticipation of the large crowds expected to descend upon the region, a series of road closures will be enforced throughout the day, with adjustments made as necessary by local law enforcement to ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists alike.
To accommodate visitors, parking lots will be available at various locations, including the Rapidsview Parking Lot, with a dedicated WEGO Shuttle service to Table Rock Centre. Public transit options such as the WEGO Bus Service and GO Transit are also encouraged to ease traffic congestion. Additionally, guests should come prepared with ISO-certified viewing glasses to safely observe the eclipse and be mindful of potential disruptions to cell service due to the high volume of visitors.
Guest Planning Considerations
Here are some important tips for guests planning to view the solar eclipse in Niagara Falls and Fort Erie:
Bring your own ISO-certified viewing glasses to safely watch the eclipse. Looking at the sun without proper eyewear can cause eye damage.
Niagara Parks may have limited glasses available, so it’s best to bring your own to avoid disappointment.
Expect increased traffic congestion starting from April 5, so plan ahead and ensure you have enough gas, water, and food.
Dress in layers and prepare for changing weather conditions.
Be aware that cell signal may be affected due to high visitor numbers, and bring cash in case electronic payment systems are unavailable.
Remember, tents or shade structures are not allowed in the Queen Victoria Park area.
As the region braces for increased traffic leading up to the eclipse, guests are reminded to plan accordingly by stocking up on supplies, dressing appropriately for varying weather conditions, and being prepared for potential changes in cell signal and electronic payment systems. By working together and planning ahead, visitors can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while witnessing this extraordinary natural phenomenon.
Additional Resources
For planning tips specific to Niagara Parks’ properties, click here.
For more information about safety and emergency preparedness from the Niagara Regional Police Service, click here.
For more solar eclipse planning tips from the City of Niagara Falls, click here.
For more solar eclipse planning tips from the Town of Fort Erie, click here.
When most people think of a trip to the Niagara Falls, they think of a family vacation or a romantic trip with their partner. However, it’s also an exciting getaway option for a girls weekend — and if you are coming from Toronto it’s easily accessible via GO Transit (see schedule). Forget about the hassle of traffic and gas expenses; here are some ways to plan a getaway with your BFF to Niagara Falls this Spring.
First Day of Spring is March 20th, 2024
FIRST STOP, CLIFTON HILL
Girls just wanna have fun! And Clifton Hill is the touristy spot in Niagara Falls that offers just that. There is everything from arcades, haunted houses, Canada’s largest observation wheel (the Niagara SkyWheel), casual laid-back dining from Kelsey’s Original Roadhouse featuring one of Niagara’s largest outdoor patio bars, to a unique Boston Pizza which also offers bowling, as well as an abundance of arcade games inside. Did we mention that you don’t need to use your data? Clifton Hill has FREE WiFi, so be sure to take advantage of that on your visit and snap away with your bestie!
You can rest assured that no matter what kind of weather that Mother Nature conjures up, Clifton Hill will be a guaranteed stop to get in some games in the Great Canadian Midway for your competitive streak, miniature golfing, and one-of-a-kind views inside the climate-controlled gondolas that the SkyWheel offers. We recommend the Clifton Hill Fun Pass, which for a low cost of $39.95+HST, you will each gain access to six thrilling attractions!
SECOND STOP, ADVENTURE!
After checking out all that Clifton Hill has to offer, it’s time to be one of the first to get wet this season! At the bottom of the “Street of Fun” is the Niagara City Cruises which is normally open for the Spring-time launching boats at the End of the month on March 28th, 2024 (Weather Dependent). Get up close and personal (and a little wet too) aboard this scenic ride which allows their guests day-time trips for a “full mist experience” and evening trips for a “light mist experience”.
Next to the Niagara City Cruises is another must-stop for adventure — WildPlay’s MistRider Zipline to the Falls. If you and your BFF are all about a sense of adventure and you don’t mind heights, than this one is for you! Side-by-side, you will take off like a bird in the sky with views of the Horseshoe and American Falls. Take off from the 220 feet high vantage point for 2200 feet to the gorge below. Don’t worry, you are fully harnessed and completely safe!
Niagara Falls Eclipse: Get ready for an incredible celestial show! The total solar eclipse is a mesmerizing event that will capture the imaginations of you and your best friend. It’s a rare chance to see the moon entirely cover the sun, creating a breathtaking moment of darkness and revealing a peek of the sun’s corona.
THIRD STOP, RELAX AND REJUVENATE
Now it’s time for some pampering! So many options to check out, like drying yourself off by trying out an infrared sauna at the Healing Salt Cave (located on Thorold Stone Rd.). This treatment makes you sweat in order to regulate your body temperature, ensuring detoxification within your body.
If a spa treatment is an absolute MUST on your getaway with your BFF to Niagara Falls and you plan on staying the night, than you may want to choose a hotel for an overnight stay that features accommodations that will enhance the relaxation and rejuvenation (see: 8 hotels in Niagara Falls with a spa)
Be on the lookout for hotels that offer packages catering to a girl’s getaway, such as the “Girls Just Wanna…” Package by White Oaks Resort, the “Taste of Niagara Wine Country” by the Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa, or overnight accommodations in the classy little town of Niagara-on-the-Lake at the Pillar and Post.
FOURTH STOP, GIRL’S NIGHT!
Now it’s time to paint the town red with your sister from another mister! This will require a trip to one of Niagara’s casinos: the Fallsview Casino or Casino Niagara. It doesn’t matter which one you choose because either will give you hours of entertainment. Thousands of slot machines and gaming tables, restaurants and bars are offered by both of these wildly popular stops in Niagara.
A night out with the BFF will probably find you finalizing the evening where you started — on Clifton Hill! At night, the street draws the crowds in with the dazzling neon and flashing lights. The Boston Pizza in particular is a magnet to singles and couples as the music gets louder and the bowling is lit up in black lights until the wee hours.
Whether you choose to spend the night, or head back home Toronto-bound later that day via GO Transit, there is no doubt that you and your BFF will have had an exciting girl’s getaway in Niagara Falls!
Enjoy the work of the talented amateur and professional photographers below who captured the World Famous SkyWheel on the Street of Fun by the Falls! Also be sure to visit our Instagram page for more Clifton Hill Fun!
The Top 50 Images of the SkyWheel Found on Instagram!
Prepare for an early spring adventure as Niagara City Cruises‘ Voyage to the Falls boat tours gear up for another season, thanks to a mild winter and a promising forecast. Scheduled to commence on March 28, both catamarans, including the iconic Niagara Thunder vessel, will be ready to set sail and provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.
Chief Operating Officer Mory DiMaurizio expresses the team’s excitement, sharing, “We are excited and looking forward to another early opening for one of Canada’s leading tourism experiences.”
The daily boat tours, starting at $33.50 plus tax for ages 13 or older and $23.50 for children aged three to 12 (with infants free), offer a spectacular 20-minute journey departing from Niagara Falls, Canada. Visitors can choose between a Full-Mist Experience before dusk or a Light-Mist Experience after dusk, ensuring a magical encounter with the falls.
To make your experience seamless, Niagara City Cruises provides timed ticketing, convenient scheduling, and even recyclable mist ponchos to keep you dry from the falls’ mist. The boat tours come with onboard audio commentary in English, enriching your adventure with insightful information.
2024 Schedule
Tickets for the 2024 season on sale now! Season opens on March 28th!
Date Period
Day of Week
Opening Time
Last Departure
Departure Frequency
Mar 28 to Apr 30
Daily
10:00am
5:30pm
Every 30 minutes
May 1 to May 16
Mon-Thu
9:30am
6:30pm
Every 15 minutes
Fri-Sun
9:30am
8:00pm
May 17 to Jun 13
Daily
9:30am
8:00pm
Every 15 minutes
Jun 14 to Labour Day (Sep 2)
Daily
8:30am
8:30pm
Every 15 minutes
Sep 3 to Thanksgiving (Oct 14)
Mon-Thu
9:30am
6:30pm
Every 15 minutes
Fri-Sun + Holiday
9:30am
8:30pm
Oct 15 to Oct 31
Daily
9:30am
5:30pm
Every 15 minutes
Nov 1 to Nov 15
Daily
10:00am
4:30pm
Every 30 minutes
Nov 16 to Dec 1** Winter Festival of Lights
Mon-Thu
10:00am
4:30pm
Every 30 minutes
Fri-Sun
10:00am
6:30pm
*Actual opening is weather permitting. **Last Day of Season TBC. Tour Schedule subject to change.
Before visiting, it’s essential to know some key details:
Safety Measures:
All guests and personal items may be subject to screening.
Guests can bring personal items such as a small purse, handbag, small backpack, infant diaper bag, or camera bag with maximum dimensions of 17.8 x 38.1 x 40.6 centimeters.
Restricted items like suitcases, carry-on luggage, and dangerous articles are strictly prohibited.
Other Important Information:
Outside food and beverage are not permitted.
During peak periods, line-ups may occur, so patience is appreciated.
Niagara City Cruises is a smoke-free environment, prohibiting smoking of tobacco, cannabis, and vaping.
For more details and to purchase tickets for the upcoming season, visit niagaracruises.com. Plan your trip and get ready to be #InTheMist of Canada’s Top Visitor Experience with Niagara City Cruises’ Voyage to the Falls.
Get ready for an extraordinary journey as the legendary Maid of the Mist, an all-electric wonder in continuous operation since 1885, kicks off its 2024 season on Thursday, April 4, at 10 a.m. This beloved boat, entering its remarkable 139th consecutive season, stands proudly as one of the longest-continuously operating tourist attractions in North America.
President Christopher M. Glynn shares the exciting news of an early opening due to a mild winter, ensuring visitors can experience the awe of Niagara Falls sooner than expected. The crew is eagerly prepared to offer a one-of-a-kind bucket-list experience.
A mild winter will allow us to open early this year
-Maid of the Mist President Christopher M. Glynn
For the upcoming season, Maid of the Mist extends its hours, operating every half-hour on weekdays (from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and weekends (from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Summer will see further extensions, allowing you more time to bask in the mesmerizing beauty.
A special highlight for 2024 is the accommodation of the Total Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8. In anticipation of the high volume of eclipse enthusiasts at Niagara Falls State Park, extended hours from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. are offered. Vessel tour operations will run on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the eclipse, providing a unique opportunity to witness this celestial event.
It’s essential to note that on the day of the eclipse, the Crow’s Nest will be closed, and Observation Deck-only tickets won’t be available for sale.
Ticket prices are $28.25 USD for adults, $17.75 USD for children (6–12 years), and free for children 5 and under accompanied by an adult. To ensure a smooth experience, guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online.
Last season, Maid of the Mist opened its doors on April 15, but this year’s season kicks off earlier, starting from April 4 and running through November 3, 2024, providing ample time for everyone to partake in this incredible adventure.
Why not spend the Easter Holiday’s enjoying all the best activities that Niagara Falls has to offer! Planning a fun-filled itinerary for Easter can be tricky- that’s why we’ve done it for you here. This article features all the most memorable adventures Niagara can provide this Easter long weekend! The upcoming holiday period kicks off Friday, March 29th and runs all the way into Easter Monday: April 1st, 2024. Despite what the weather is like, Clifton Hill is jam-packed with indoor activities to be enjoyed, rain, snow, hail, or shine!
Easter weekend in Niagara Falls is a time of celebration with family. Spring colors are beginning to pop throughout the exquisitely maintained Queen Victoria Park, Oakes Garden Theatre and along the picturesque landscape of the Niagara Parkway.
1. Niagara’s Top Attractions…All Within A Block of Falls!
Click here for a birds eye view of Clifton Hill showing all our recommended attractions!
Some of Clifton Hill’s favorites are open for the spring season, just in time for you to enjoy over the long weekend. Both The Niagara Speedway and Dino Adventure Golf are open and ready for you- so why not opt for both!? The Speedway combines the thrill of a roller-coaster ride and go-karting for an epic, family fun adventure…And Dino-Golf features huge dinosaurs scattered across a massive course just begging to pose with your little ones in a hilarious selfie. Taking in the sights and sounds of Clifton Hill is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave your family with lasting memories.
Have you had the time to take a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel? The SkyWheel provides extraordinary views of Niagara Falls, both day and night. If you have not had the chance to take a ride on the 175 feet tall observation wheel, here’s your opportunity to see why it’s a perfect fit for your next holiday adventure.
WildPlay’s MistRider Zipline to the Falls is an amazing rush that soars high and fast above the gorge from the Grand View Marketplace toward the Niagara Falls. It’s a guided, human-powered Element that’s suitable to ages seven and older.
The Niagara City Cruises is open and ready to roar for Easter (March 28th, 2024)! Get up close and personal with the American Falls, Canadian Horseshoe Falls, and breathtaking Great Gorge – and the thundering roar, awesome power and amazing mist that come along with these natural wonders.
The Stamford Volunteer Fireman’s Association bring back their annual Easter egg hunt at Fireman’s Park this year. A nominal donation or one non-perishable food donation per child is required. Children are sorted into age groups and given plenty of time to collect as many eggs as possible. Meet the Easter Bunny, participate in pony rides, bouncy castles, enjoy hot chocolate and hot dogs, and new this year is a fish and chip truck!
Dive into a day of joy at Warner Ranch’s Easter Eggstravaganza! From March 25 to April 1, 2024, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., experience a day filled with delightful activities. Decorate your own Easter eggs, cuddle adorable animals in the petting zoo, and embark on tractor or horse-drawn hayrides. Hunt for eggs to win a goodies bag!
For a magical touch, ride Warner Ranch’s ponies and unicorns (extra fee). Early birds catch the magic, as entry is first-come-first-serve. Conveniently located at 7705 Schisler Road, Welland, with on-site parking, it’s an Easter celebration you won’t want to miss!
Join us on March 30th, 2024, for Merrittville Speedway’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt in Thorold, Ontario. After a brief hiatus due to the pandemic, we’re back with a new twist! Hosted by Speedway owners Don and Lorraine Spiece, the event promises a day of family fun with free admission for kids and families in the Niagara Region.
Explore scheduled egg hunts for each age group, a grand family hunt, and numerous activities like carnival games, Easter Bunny visits, live trivia, and more. Plus, all donations raised will support Niagara Nutritional Partners, a local non-profit providing school lunches. Don’t miss this fantastic, free family event! For inquiries or donations, contact Steve Dube or Lorraine Spiece. Stay tuned for more details about our 2024 schedule! Follow us on social media for updates.
4. Food & Drink
While hosting an Easter dinner can be rewarding, it can be a lot of work. Why not take a break and let us cook and entertain for you?
We have some top restaurant options for you to consider, especially if you are feeling burnt out from planning a home cooked Easter feast:
Both these restaurants will be open their regular hours throughout the holiday weekend with no early closures!
Boston Pizza Clifton Hill
Boston Pizza
Kelsey’s Clifton Hill
Kelsey’s Clifton Hill
Fudge Factory!
Easter has long been associated with three things: the Easter Bunny, the Easter Egg and chocolate!
With the Holiday right around the corner, the Fantasy Fudge Factory on Clifton Hill has you covered!
The Fantasy Fudge Factory has a massive selection of not only 20 varieties of hand-made fudge and various assortments of chocolaty treats, but the store also carries a marvel of candy creations. You can even grab a container of your choosing in size and scoop your very own concoction for your tasting pleasure!
Create your own Easter basket by mixing and matching certain items that you find from within the store, which also includes many toys and make it your headquarters for Ty Beanie Baby collectibles since they offer hundreds of the little critters!
If you’re looking for some great family entertainment, you’ll find Strike Game Zone the ultimate family fun place to play!
Here you’ll find 7 full size 10 pin bowling lanes, a high-def audio/visual system, intelligent LED lane lighting and touch screen monitors for easy, automated scoring. Plus, with special bumper-rails that can be raised or lowered for each player, kids and novice bowlers don’t have to throw gutter balls.
After bowling, you can stick around to enjoy many arcade games, and racing simulators.
Courtyard Marriott Niagara FallsHoward Johnson Hotel by the Falls
7. Parking for Easter Holiday Weekend
Especially relevant is finding convenient parking close to all the Niagara Falls Easter action. With Clifton Hill’s Main Parking area, you’ll have direct access to Clifton Hill and be only steps from the Falls. Click on the image below for location and driving directions.
If you and the family are planning an Easter getaway there is no shortage of things to do along Clifton Hill’s World Famous Street of Fun by the Falls!
8. What Else is Open Good Friday & Easter Sunday
Most restaurant and bars will be open throughout the region
Canada One Outlet Mall: 7500 Lundy’s Ln, Niagara Falls, ON L2H 1G9
Outlet Collection at Niagara: 300 Taylor Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Most Niagara-region wineries or vineyards will be open.
Niagara Brewing Company: 4915-A Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N5
Counterpart Brewing: 3659 Stanley Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 0A6
Blackburn Brew House: 8001 Blackburn Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2H 0A6
Cineplex Odeon Niagara Square: 7555 Montrose Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2H 2E9
9. About Easter
In the Christian world, Easter is a celebration of the resurrection of Christ. On the third day after his crucifixion (Good Friday), the New Testament tells us that he arose from his grave and appeared to his disciples and ascended to Heaven…this is celebrated by Christians every year on Easter Sunday. The rabbit is known for its reproduction prowess (hence the term “multiplying like rabbits”) and is seen as having special powers to help humans reproduce, which symbolizes fertility and the egg is also a symbol of fertility, rebirth and new beginnings…which celebrates the death and resurrection of Christ. And chocolate? You can thank the Europeans for that. It began in the early 19th century and it was mainly France and Germany that decided to take this on.
Every year on March 17, the Irish and the non-Irish alike, observe St. Patrick’s Day. What began as a religious feast day for the patron saint of Ireland, has become an international festival celebrating Irish culture.
In Canada, St. Patrick’s Day has several different meanings. From wearing green and starting the day with green pancakes to commemorating your Irish roots by eating corned beef and cabbage for a feast day. Whatever fun you have planned for St. Patrick’s Day, be sure to take this quiz so you can learn all about Ireland’s Patron Saint. Do you possess the Luck of the Irish? Will the colour green be part of your attire? Do you posses a four-leaf clover?
Take our St. Patrick’s Day quiz to find out! Maybe you’ll be able to outwit a leprechaun—or your Irish-Canadian buddies!
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