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Things To Do

Shop, Play, and Stay in Niagara Falls, Canada

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Labour Day weekend is bittersweet! It’s both a long weekend, and also the last one before the kids go back to school. Why not take advantage of it, and shop, play, and stay in Niagara Falls, Canada?

Here’s Where To Shop In Niagara Falls

Back to school specials! They are happening all this weekend at Niagara’s two favorite outlet malls, and both locations are open throughout the long weekend and into Labour Day Monday.
Outlet Collection at Niagara – 300 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-lake, Ontario 

Hours over the Labour Day long weekend:
Friday: 10am – 9pm
Saturday: 10am – 9pm
Sunday: 10am – 6pm
Labour Day Monday: 10am – 6pm
Directions
From Toronto
*Exit QEW at Glendale Avenue South.
*Turn right on to Glendale, then right on to Taylor Road at the lights.
*Take a left to enter Outlet Collection at Niagara.
From Niagara Falls (Rainbow Bridge)
1. Head northeast on Falls Ave/Regional Rd 420 toward Roberts St.
2. Continue onto Ontario 420 W/Queen Elizabeth Way).
3. Exit QEW at Regional Road 89/Glendale Avenue.
4. Turn left onto Glendale Ave.
5. Turn right onto Taylor Road.
**Currently there is construction happening on the 420 that may cause some delays. Please see “Holiday Weekend Alternate Routes to QEW from Niagara Falls” to avoid any traffic congestion.
Some Back-To-School Promotions over the Labour Day weekend
**Special: Until September 3rd, get a bonus $15 gift card when you purchase $150 worth of gift cards. While quantities last. Certain conditions apply. Please visit Guest Services for more details.
Samsonite: August 14th – September 30th – Great savings on backpacks
Boathouse: August 11th – September 4th – BOGO 50% cff select Fall styles & brands
Brooks Brothers Factory Store: August 24th – September 4th – Labour Day Clearance Sale! 50% – 80% Off* throughout the store
Roots: August 24th – September 4th – For a limited time only, buy three + sweats get 40% off, buy two sweats get 30% off, buy one sweat get 20% off
Sketchers Footwear: August 1st – September 4th – Back to School Sale! Buy 1 shoe and get your 2nd pair for 50% off
Plus much, much more! Click here for a full list of their promotions.
Canada One Factory Outlets – 7500 Lundy’s Lane, Niagara Falls, Ontario

Hours over the Labour Day long weekend:
Friday: 10am – 9pm
Saturday: 10am – 9pm
Sunday: 10am – 6pm
Labour day Monday: 10am – 6pm
Directions
From Toronto
*Take QEW to Niagara Falls.
*Exit at Lundy’s Lane.
*Left on Montrose Road.
*Left on Lundy’s Lane.
*Right turn into Canada One Outlets entrance.
From Niagara Falls (Rainbow Bridge)
*Hwy 420 to Lundy’s Lane exit.
*Left on Montrose Road.
*Left on Lundy’s Lane.
From Bus/Train Station to Canada One, you may take the WEGO RED Line to Canada One. Other alternatives for getting around Niagara Falls. 
Some Back-To-School Promotions over the Labour Day weekend
Reebok: Now – September 13th – Buy 2, get 20% off, Buy 3, get 30% off, Buy 4 or more, get 40% off
Carters OshKosh “Style Up 4 School”: August 24th – September 13th – $6 Graphic Tees, $8 Leggings, $9 B’gosh Blue Jeans, $12 Joggers, fleece hoodies & pants (Limited Time Only)
Brooks Brothers Factory Store: August 24th – September 4th – Labour Day Clearance Sale! 50% – 80% Off* throughout the store
Roots: August 24th – September 4th – For a limited time only, buy three + sweats get 40% off, buy two sweats get 30% off, buy one sweat get 20% off
Tommy Hilfiger: Labour Day Sale – August 31st – September 7th – 30-50% off Entire Store*
Plus much, much more! Click here for a full list of their promotions.

Play in Niagara Falls

There is no shortage of things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada over the Labour Day weekend! There’s more than enough fun to be had for the whole family to enjoy!
Labour Day Weekend events and things to do:

Clifton Hill is more than attractions and dining — stock up on back-to-school shopping at our two major retails outlets, the Canada Trading Company and the Fun Factory. Both stores have clothing for all ages, along with school supplies that you won’t find at department stores. Unique items, as well as souvenir stationary to commemorate the last trip to Niagara Falls before school begins!

Stay in Niagara Falls – Niagara Falls Hotels


You’ll need a place to stay that is the prime location for all that there is to do!
That is why we made it easy for you to narrow down your search for the perfect hotel. Choose a Lundy’s Lane Hotel  for affordable rooms, close to the Canada One Outlet Mall, cute boutiques and retail outlets along the promenade. Choose a Clifton Hill Hotel to be close to all the Labour Day weekend events, activities, and attractions, and choose a Fallsview Hotel for the most spectacular views of the falls, close to the Fallsview Casino district.
Shop, play, and stay in Niagara Falls, Canada this holiday weekend!
 

Things To Do

American Spring Break in Niagara Falls Ontario

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American Spring Break in Niagara Falls Ontario

A Canadian Adventure
The Easter long weekend falls in conjunction with many Americans enjoying their Spring Break recess.  Both great reasons for family travel, plus its nice to reward the kids for their hard work and to enjoy some bonding time in Niagara Falls!
Niagara Falls is full of great attractions for the family and if you haven’t been to the Canadian side in a while, you will discover some fresh and interesting changes here.
Boston Pizza Clifton Hill offers a great choice for family fun and features Midway games, the Strike! Rock N Bowl Centre, and signature dishes like the Spicy Perogy pizza or the Slow Roasted Pork Ribs. Parents can also check the score of their favourite teams on the many high-definition televisions, while children are entertained by all the interactive games and amusements. The Great Canadian Midway is the perfect facility for family entertainment everyone will enjoy. Over 70,000 square feet of arcade games, rides, and a large prize booth with a huge selection of prizes to be won.
Online only The Family Token Offer!

Fun by the Falls
After a great meal, the fun doesn’t stop on Clifton Hill! Now you get to see all the dazzling attractions light up the night.  Your kids will be amazed, and no one will ever get bored along Clifton Hill’s promenade. Dinosaur Adventure Golf is a family favourite, and offers waterfalls, billowing steam and the call of the dinosaurs, making it feel like you have traveled back to prehistoric times.
Get a glimpse of our course:

 
All our attractions remain open until late throughout the American Spring Break, so there is plenty of time to experience the “Street of Fun by the Falls”, both during the day and long after the sun sets. Click here for our Hours of Operation.
Great Deals
The choices in Niagara Falls are endless, but if you want to save your money on various attractions and dining on Clifton Hill, check out these exclusive online offers.

The Clifton Hill 4-Attraction Fun Pass offers our most popular attractions for only $19.95 for Adults & $14.95 (+HST) for Children.

Experience the magic that happens in the evening with the Niagara Falls Illumination. New for 2017 is the introduction of the new LED lights! The $4-million revitalization project uses the latest technology to light the Horseshoe and American Falls. In addition to this, the lights have been extended to stay on later.

Staying the Night
For those spending a night or two on the Canadian Side, be sure to check out all the Niagara Falls hotels that surround us:
Clifton Hill Hotels
Lundy’s Lane Hotels 
Fallsview Hotels
Crossing the Border
Visitors from the USA:
Approximately 28 million visitors cross the border every year from the United States into Canada by car and an additional 17 million visitors a year arrive by airplane or boat from the USA and all other countries across the globe.
For detailed information of the appropriate documentation needed, and full access to bridge cams, click on the image below:

With all the pressures of work, extra-curricular activities, homework and friends, it’s important to maintain a sense of togetherness with the ones you love… bring the family closer together with a Niagara Falls adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
 
 
 
 

List, Things To Do

Things to do in Niagara Falls in February!

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What’s better than wine and chocolate?

via wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com

This event runs every weekend in February (Friday to Sunday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm). Pair up to 20 VQA Niagara wines with delicious chocolate dishes at various Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries. Tickets are available online through Wineries of Niagara on the Lake.

Bobby Bazini

Bazini was nominated for two Juno Awards: “New Artist of the Year” and “Pop Album of the Year”. In 2014, his second album “Where I Belong” sold over 125 000 copies in less than 12 months, which made it the best selling Canadian album of 2014. Catch him at the Scotiabank Convention Centre on February 10th, 2017. Details here.

Catch a tribute to Michael Jackson!

The “King Of Pop”, Michael Jackson will be reborn again in this theatrical musical production that celebrates his music over the years. Don’t miss the “Man In The Mirror” coming to the Fallsview Casino February 14th to 19th!

Blue Suede Shoes

This is a spectacular tribute to the “King of Rock n’ Roll” that transformed the music industry as we know it. Told through the eyes of Elvis’ business manager, Colonel Tom Parker, the show tells the story through his beginnings at Sun Records to the Hollywood years and on to the near-mythical comeback and flamboyant Las Vegas residency. Watch Blue Suede Shoes from February 14th to 19th at the Scotiabank Convention Centre.

“Magical Love” at the Greg Frewin Theatre

via gregfrewintheatre.com

This is a unique package for two to experience on Valentine’s Day! Engage in an evening of dinner, magic and illusion, bound together by romance! This show will be non-stop “edge of your seat” thrills and sophisticated magic as part of Greg Frewin’s “Wild Magic” Show.

Winterfest

via heartlandforest.org

Head to Heartland Forest on February 20th (11:00 am to 3:00 pm) for their Annual Winterfest event! There will be free indoor & outdoor activities, great food, a campfire, and PRIZE DRAWS!

Niagara’s Travelling Flea Market

On Saturday, February 25th from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm the Scotiabank Convention Centre will be holding the First Annual “Niagara’s Travelling Flea Market“! This will take place in over 17,000 square feet of space and will include activities for kids such as a fun zone, face painting, mascot character meet n greets and a reptile presentation. Admission to the event is FREE.

Scotties Tournament of Hearts

via curling.ca

From February 18th to the 26th, the Meridian Centre in St.Catharines will have Provincial teams from across Canada (along with Team Canada) to compete to be crowned the Canadian Women’s Curling Champions! Tickets range between $20 (weekday morning & afternoon) – $35 (Championship Final). For tickets click here.

Clifton Hill!

via niagarafallscliftonhill.com

And last but certainly not least, Clifton Hill is the heart of everything fun to do in February! Rides, entertainment, dining, and shopping abound…but most of all February is the month of the Family Day long weekend — and Clifton Hill is the destination that families will flock to. From winning big at the Great Canadian Midway, to soaring high in the sky on the Niagara SkyWheel, there is something for everyone here!

The Clifton Hill Fun Pass is the most economical way for families to experience all the action on Clifton Hill at an incredible discount. Fun begins on Clifton Hill — the “Street of Fun by the Falls”!

**Online only: Get TWO admissions to the Niagara SkyWheel as a bonus!

Attractions, Things To Do

List of Upcoming Niagara Festivals and Fairs in the Fall

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List of Upcoming Niagara Festivals and Fairs in the Fall

The cooler weather is approaching and it’s time to get out and look for some places and events to go with the family during the crisp, Fall season. Here is a list of some upcoming Niagara Festivals and Fairs from now until the end of the Fall season 2016.
 
October 7th – 10th: Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival, Jordan
October 8th – 9th: Boo at the Zoo, Stevensville
October 22nd: 12th Annual Pumpkinfest, Niagara Falls 
November 19th: Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade, Niagara Falls 
November 19th – January 31st: Winter Festival of Lights: Niagara Falls 
November 20th: St.Catharines Santa Claus Parade, St. Catharines 
November 26th: Fort Erie Santa Claus Parade, Fort Erie 
November 26th: Thorold Santa Claus Parade, Thorold 
December 3rd: Grimsby Santa Claus Parade, Grimsby 
December 3rd: Port Colborne Santa Claus Parade, Port Colborne 
December 10th: Niagara on the Lake Santa Claus Parade, Niagara on the Lake 
December 10th: Pelham Santa Claus Parade, Pelham 
**For a list of Niagara Falls Entertainment facilities and theatres to visit either with the family or without, click here.

 
 

Attractions, Things To Do

Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls: A Sample One-Day Itinerary

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Clifton Hill has always been a family favourite destination in Niagara. From the moment that you set foot on our street, you feel the buzz and excitement that surrounds you with all our attractions, restaurants, and unique shopping destinations.
Experienced and award-winning travel journalists and photographers like those featured on www.travel2next.com, list Clifton Hill as one of the “10 Amazing Things to do in Niagara Falls.” Quite simply, you don’t want to visit Niagara Falls without taking a stop here.
Here is a sample one-day itinerary on what to do with the family in Niagara Falls, on what is known as the “Street of Fun by the Falls”.

Plan Ahead
This is especially true if you plan on traveling to Clifton Hill in peak season — mid-June to late August. Due to our heavily populated street full of family fun amusements, dining and retail facilities, it is the #1 street to travel through and down towards the Hornblower Niagara Cruises, the Niagara Parks and to the Niagara Falls itself. You will also find that our parking lot is central, fast and the most easily accessible to all these popular Niagara Falls tourist hot spots — with even the Fallsview Casino only a short walk away. You can avoid line-ups at the Clifton Hill attractions, which can get fairly long on weekends and especially holiday long weekends, by purchasing Clifton Hill Fun Passes online ahead of time.
The Clifton Hill Fun Pass features 5 of our most popular attractions bundled into one low price (50% off the retail individuals prices). Read up on the Clifton Hill Fun Pass by clicking the image below, but basically you can consider these cards as your “fast pass” on Clifton Hill. No waiting in cashier line-ups; you simply head to the turnstiles and head on in. These passes also have a one year expiry date, meaning that you are not required to do all the attractions on one day. You could do 3 attractions on one visit and then come back on a later day to do the remaining 2 attractions. Use at your own convenience. As an added bonus, planning ahead this way has a big pay off — purchasing it online in the only way to receive another bonus Niagara SkyWheel ride, so that you are able to ride twice at no additional cost to you.

Does someone in your family require a wheelchair? You may rent one at these places to use:

Niagara Mobility Home Health Care

905-357-1600
4600 Queen St.,
Niagara Falls, ON

Pharma Shield

905-356-8482
5400 Portage Road,
Niagara Falls, ON

Queen Street Pharmacy

905-354-5604
4421 Queen St.,
Niagara Falls, ON
Check out Clifton Hill’s Hours of Operation at the attractions that you wish to visit, and arrive early to assure yourself the best possible parking. Need help on where to park? Check out the map below for the best lot to park at. Avoid parking on the street (if you can even get a spot!), and save yourself the hassle of metered parking by parking in the lot provided:

Click here for driving directions to the lot.
Sample Itinerary
Morning

  • As you enter into this parking lot, you will receive a coupon book that features Clifton Hill (and the surrounding area), and a pretty thorough list of Niagara Falls places to visit. Keep this book handy for $1-$2 off/person discounts at many of the attractions. You may also click here for a list of our online coupons.
  • If you have yet to have breakfast, you can get an inexpensive and decent meal for the family at our Tim Hortons on location. Hot breakfast sandwiches, flatbread breakfast paninis, grilled breakfast wraps, bagels, hashbrowns, bagel BLT’s, yogurt, oatmeal, coffee,tea, milk, and juices are just some of the breakfast features.
  • After breakfast, I would suggest visiting the Niagara SkyWheel. The lineups are non-existent in the morning and when you catch the sunrise, you will get stunning photographs.

  • Next up, head to the bottom of Clifton Hill and purchase your ticket(s) to the Hornblower Niagara Cruises. This attraction is located on the Niagara Parkway at the north end of Queen Victoria Park, close to the Rainbow Bridge and the Oakes Garden Theatre at the foot Clifton Hill. Only two years old, it is one of Niagara’s newest attractions, which replaced the Maid of the Mist (now only launching from the US side). The ticket booths open at 8:30 am during the Spring/Summer, and the ride can get quite busy. Before lunch would be the ideal time for a boat cruise to experience the wonder of the Niagara Falls (the boats depart every 15 minutes). Allow yourself 1 to 1.5 hours just at the Hornblower site alone. Including the boat ride, you’ll want to check out the view from the Hornblower Plaza and the merchandise inside the Mist Retail shop without having to rush.
  • Dry off after Hornblower Niagara Cruises with a walk in Queen Victoria Park and the Oakes Garden Theatre. Walking along the Niagara Parkway and into this park, you will come across beautifully maintained gardens with a collection of unique native and international plants. Spring features over 500,000 daffodils, magnolia trees, and thousands of tulips; Summer brings out the fuchsia, cannas, and coleus plants. Queen Victoria Park is also home to the “Zimmerman Fountain” which dates back to 1856. This beautiful fountain takes its name from Samuel Zimmerman who came to Canada from Pennsylvania in 1842. He amassed a fortune through a series of lucrative contracts involving the building of the Second Welland canal and various railway lines, allowing him to begin construction of a large estate in what is now Queen Victoria Park. The estate was unfinished when he was killed in a railway accident in March of 1857. This is the last remaining remnant of his estate.

Afternoon

  • Time for lunch. Head back up Clifton Hill and head to Boston Pizza. This Boston Pizza is unique in that it is located within a 70,000 square foot arcade — the Great Canadian Midway. You’ll find more than 100 delicious menu items perfect for lunch. Whether you are craving pasta, burgers or ribs, you’ll find it served fast and fresh. Sit on the patio or go inside to enjoy a relaxing family meal or catch your favorite team at the sports bar. Click on the image below for our newest online only savings. Spend $40 and get back a $50 dining voucher. It’s that simple.

  • Convenience (especially with kids) is foremost when you have one day to plan what to do with the family in Niagara Falls on Clifton Hill. Now you have the remainder of the afternoon to do the rest of the attractions featured on the Clifton Hill Fun Pass. The Ghost Blasters Dark Ride and the Wild West Coaster are located in the Great Canadian Midway; on the lower level of Boston Pizza. Do those 2 attractions first. You may find at this point (and especially with toddlers), you and the family may begin to get the “after meal” burnout. This is the perfect opportunity to grab a coffee back at Tim Horton’s, or the Starbucks on the corner of Clifton Hill and Victoria Av., and spend an hour or so playing some arcade games in the Great Canadian Midway, and then redeeming your winning tickets for prizes at the Redemption Centre.
  • Next up? It’s time for a challenging game of miniature golf. The pass offers you a choice: the outdoor Dinosaur Adventure Golf, or the indoor glow-in-the-dark Wizard’s Golf course. With both courses you will receive 18 holes of golfing fun, with Dinosaur Adventure Golf allowing you to choose your course — there are two courses on this property to choose from! Are you in the mood to travel back to the prehistoric times (including a “live” volcano), or would you like a touch of magic in the indoor world of fantasy and make-believe with Wizard’s Golf? You choose.


*Pictured Above: Dinosaur Adventure Golf*

*Pictured Above: Wizard’s Golf*

  • Lastly, it’s time to check out the Movieland Wax Museum. As you exit Movieland, you will enter our Fun Factory gift shop which features the Wax Hands Emporium. Here you can make a replica of your own hand made in colourful wax. They make terrific, one-of-a-kind souvenirs!
  • Ready for a little treat? Now is the time to pick up something to satisfy your sweet tooth at the Fudge Factory. More than just selling fudge, this store makes everything fresh onsite by our candy cooks — this includes goodies such as fudge, cookies, candy apples, sponge toffee, brittle and beernuts, all using traditional recipes. Other treats like strawberries, marshmallows, and pretzels are dipped in chocolate and covered with delicious toppings. There is also an entire wall devoted to candy dispensers with over 50 types of candy and chocolate to choose from. Mix and match a container of your favourites!

By now, you should be tired and exhausted from an exciting day on Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls. Head into the Canada Trading Company for a massive selection of souvenir choices to bring home to show your family and friends, and to commemorate your day trip to Niagara Falls. There are so many unique, quality items to choose from here, it will be hard to choose. Pick up a book that features all the exciting things there is to do in Niagara Falls, and a postcard on your way out.

News

Tips for Celebrating New Years in Niagara Falls

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If you plan on coming to Niagara Falls for the New Year’s Eve festivities, I will provide you with some things you need to know about celebrating New Years in Niagara Falls. This is Canada’s largest FREE New Year’s Eve concert  — so expect a busy, fun, and unforgettable evening!
Parking
You may have been to the Falls 100 times, but have you ever arrived at the same time as thousands of other people?  New Years in Niagara Falls has insane traffic! Please, I can’t stress it enough, expect to arrive and be parked at your destination by 8:30 pm at the latest. Choose a spot close enough to the New Year’s festivities, that is also walking distance from wherever you plan on having dinner, etc. If you plan on seeing the New Year’s Eve concert down at Queen Victoria Park,  hopefully you picked a hotel within walking distance to the show. If not, click here and let us help you with a list of nearby hotels complete with a map that pinpoints their location in conjuction to the park, Niagara Falls, and the attractions that you wish to visit. Book a hotel fast!
A parking lot that is close to the concert in the park, both casinos (Casino Niagara and Fallsview Casino), and all the main Clifton Hill attractions, is just off Robinson Street. If you enter the parking lot from the back, you will fare much better in getting in quickly — whereas entering at the front (off Clifton Hill) will be difficult depending on your time of arrival. Below, you will find a map of this lot. It is large and extends from the rear of the Niagara SkyWheel all the way to the Skylon Tower. You should have no problem finding a parking spot here, and the wait to leave the property afterwards will be far less than if you were able to find a parking spot along the Niagara Parkway.
Click the image below for directions:

 
 
Public Transportation
WEGO buses will run from 10:00 am to 3:30 am.
The Falls Incline Railway located across from the Table Rock Centre will also run from 10:00 am to 1:00 am.
For more information on the WEGO system, plus numbers for Niagara Falls taxi services, click here.
Avoid long lines if you can when you want to check out the Niagara Falls attractions!
Niagara Falls weather is unpredictable. It will seem even colder next to the Falls, so not only should you remember to dress warmly, but think about what attractions you plan on visiting while you are down here, and try to avoid standing out in the cold for a long period of time.
The free concert festivities will begin at 8:00 pm, with Alan Doyle & The Beautiful Gypsies, Dennis Deyoung (Styx), Down With Webster, and with Tom Cochrane & Red Rider set to headline the night.
Click on the image below for information on the main performers:

 
Click here for an update on Niagara Falls weather conditions.
Popular attractions such as the Niagara SkyWheel start getting really busy by 8:30 pm. The first set of fireworks will go off at 9:00 pm (and last set at Midnight), so people will begin to think the same thing and want to be on the SkyWheel to watch the fireworks show. Try to do most of the attractions that you will most likely encounter heavy lines first, if lineups aren’t your thing. So if it’s the Niagara SkyWheel you wish to see, then the best time to arrive is before 8:00 pm, or right after the first fireworks show at approximately 9:30 pm-10:30 pm. Attractions that take a while to finish (such as miniature golf) are definitely attractions to knock off your list first and foremost. Keep in mind, once the firework shows are over and the New Years Eve concert is over, there is always thousands of visitors headed up Clifton Hill at the same time. To lineup for attractions then, or to choose to eat then, will mean longer than usual waits.
Our Clifton Hill attractions will close no earlier than 2:00 am. Click here to find the Hours of Operation for the attractions that you wish to visit.
If you can purchase tickets ahead of time, please do so. This is the beauty of the Clifton Hill Fun Pass. You can purchase it online for the exact same price as buying it at the attractions themselves ($25.95+tax for Adults and $19.95+tax for Children), but you have the added benefit of skipping the cashier lineups, so that you can just go right ahead and lineup at the turnstiles. Also, as an added incentive, you will receive another additional ride on the Niagara SkyWheel for free just for going online to do so. Keep in mind that if you choose to go this route, you will need to print off your confirmation slip and bring a piece of photo ID of the person who bought the passes. You will need this to show only once when you redeem your receipt for the fun pass cards on your first attractions visit. Take the slip to any of the attractions listed in the Clifton Hill Fun Pass to receive your cards. The Clifton Hill Fun Pass includes:
 

 Have a designated “spot”
Upon arrival, choose a unique spot to go in case you get separated by family or friends that you can meet at. For example: In front of the Pharoah at Movieland Wax Museum on Clifton Hill, or in front of the doors leading into Tim Hortons.
Keep your eye on your kids. I’ve seen it all before. Children get so excited by all the lights and action that they can not stand still. All it takes is to simply dig into your wallet to pay for something and they can run off.  Always hold their hand or supply them with a cellphone or a walky-talky in case they get lost. If they do get lost, please keep in mind that the Niagara Parkway and the Clifton Hill area in particular are heavily guarded with police officers and the Clifton Hill security patrol at all times. They can easily be found, and if for some reason you can not find an officer, one of the cashiers at any of the attractions have been trained on how to contact them. Let your children know to ask one of them for assistance this New Years in Niagara Falls.
 Carry the bare minimum

If you are headed down to watch the concert at Queen Victoria Park, remember how big the crowds will be down there. There will literally be thousands and thousands of people watching this spectacular show, so if you can avoid carrying a purse or a wallet with every piece of ID you own in it — DON’T! Leave it somewhere safe. Carry the bare minimum such as the money you need, ONE credit card and your Drivers License. This will avoid it getting lost or stolen.
Lastly, be patient and have FUN!
You will have tall people blocking your view. You will have someone step on your feet. You will have someone walk into you. Be patient. Relax, take a deep breath and don’t let little things irritate you. Not many people will get the privilege to be standing next to one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world, so take it all in and enjoy it! New Years in Niagara Falls is an exciting time to be with your family and friends.
No matter where you are, I wish you a Happy New Years Eve and a fantastic beginning to 2016! Stay safe and have FUN!!

Christine Lynn
clynn@cliftonhill.com
www.cliftonhill.com
Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb
Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt
Google+: www.CliftonHill.com/gplus
Pinterest: www.CliftonHill.com/pin
Instagram: @cliftonhillfun
 
 

Attractions, Things To Do

Top Upcoming Halloween Fun Runs in Ontario

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*Picture Above: Trek or Treat Trail Run*
Want to have fun while staying active? Halloween “scary” themed running races are becoming all the rage to prove that staying active doesn’t have to be boring.
Here is a list of upcoming Halloween fun runs in Ontario for 2015:
 
Sunday, September 27th: The Running Dead, Kitchener, ON.
Saturday, October 10th: Zombie Chase 2015, Windsor, ON.
Friday, October 16th: Trek or Treat: Canada’s Original Night Trail Run, Oakville, ON.
Saturday, October 24th: Halloween 7K and 1K, Stoney Creek, ON.
Sunday, October 25th: Bolton Rotary’s Haunted Hill, Bolton, ON.
Sunday, October 25th: Monster Dash, Toronto, ON.
Saturday, October 31st: Halloween Haunting, London, ON.
Saturday, October 31st: Horror Hill and Halloween Hustle, Waterloo, ON.
October 31st: Zombie Thrill Run, Pembroke, ON.
 
Looking for “scary” thrills in Niagara Falls? Check out these fun Niagara Falls attractions:
 
*Nightmares Fear Factory, 5631 Victoria Av.
*Ghostblasters Dark Ride, 4848 Clifton Hill
*Screaming Tunnels Haunted Playground, 5930 Victoria Av.
*Haunt Manor, 9387 Lundy’s Lane
 
Click here for a list of upcoming Haunted Tours in the Niagara Region.

Attractions, Things To Do

Reasons to Visit Niagara Falls in the Fall

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Without a doubt, the Niagara Region attracts the greatest number of tourists between the months of June to August. These are the months that see the highest temperatures, with average highs between 77 – 81 F, and lows between 56-61 F. Even on the hottest days, you can walk alongside the Horseshoe and American Falls and catch a comfortable breeze and mist to cool you off. Another prime reason to visit in the Summer is the atmosphere of large crowds, and you will get full advantage of all the attractions.

All great reasons to visit Niagara Falls in the Summer, but did you know that visiting Niagara Falls in the Fall has a number of beneficial reasons to plan your trip here as well? Maybe even more of an incentive. Here are some prime reasons to start packing your bags:

Plummeting Hotel Rates 

Fall sees daily highs ranging from the low 40s to the mid 70s. In some cases, it’s not unusual to see snow as early as the end of October. Room rates have dipped since the Summer and will continue to dive as the Fall goes on. Expect to see rates slashed in half. Even on the weekends (when there all still plenty of activities and events to take part in), the rates are generally 50-60% off what they normally are during a weekday in the Summer.

The best way for getting around Niagara Falls is on foot. Most of the attractions and businesses are compacted together in such a way that it makes it easier (and cheaper!) to travel about this way. There are two prime areas that are ‘must-sees’ when visiting the Niagara Falls in the Fall, and anytime for that matter: Clifton Hill and the Niagara Parkway.  Clifton Hill is known as the “Street of Fun by the Falls” for good reason. It’s a street lined with attractions with something for everyone — every ethnicity and every age group to enjoy. Think giant arcades and a “Fun House” for the kids, FIVE Haunted Houses from low on the scare chart to petrifying (hello, Nightmares Fear Factory!) and miniature golf courses for the teenagers, to the Niagara SkyWheel for the Adults, and even a scenic stroll through the historic Oakes Garden Theatre for the Seniors. All these plentiful and varying attractions are steps from one another.

As for getting around the popular Niagara Parks attractions that lie along the Niagara Parkway, the two main draws: Hornblower Niagara Cruises and Journey Behind the Falls, are just minutes from each other and the others are easily accessible by purchasing a WEGO pass for the day for much less than driving and having to pay parking fees (think the Whirlpool Aero Car, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Conservatory and the White Water Walk).

The Comfort Inn Clifton Hill for example is situated in a prime location for accessibility and convenience. Literally right on Clifton Hill and with WEGO stops along the way, this hotel has room rates for as little as $76.50/night for a standard room during the Fall season. Click here to view the rates.

 *Pictured Above: Step outside the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill lobby and you are immediately confronted with the Dinosaur Adventure Golf attraction*

The Harvest and Festivals 

Niagara is also the home of Ontario’s grape wine harvest celebration. The 64th annual Niagara Wine Festival, based in Niagara on the Lake and historic Montebello Park in Downtown St. Catharines, features more than 100 events between Sept. 12th and 27th, 2015, which includes winery tours, tastings, concerts, Niagara cuisine, wine seminars, live entertainment and one of the largest street parades in the country. The Meridian Grande Parade hosts an outstanding procession of marching bands, drum corps, community groups, majorettes, floats and amazing performances, attracting upwards of 100,000 spectators to the streets of downtown St. Catharines each year. This year’s Grande Parade theme is “Harvest Street Party” and occurs on Saturday, September 26th at 11:00 am.

Another world-known festival that Niagara Falls brings is the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights – November 21, 2015 – January 31, 2016. Since its inception in 1983, it has grown to be Canada’s largest illumination festival and the premiere illumination festival in North America which attracts well over 1.5 million visitors. It was recently included in the Top 10 Canada’s best winter festivals by canoe.ca and recognized as a Festival of Distinction by Festivals & Events Ontario and a Top 100 Internationally Known Event in North America by the American Bus Association.

Let’s also not forget the Niagara Falls International Marathon. This is the only marathon of its kind that starts in the U.S.A. and finalizes in Niagara Falls, Canada. What better scenery than running past one the world’s most amazing sights? I actually did this race before (read: My First Marathon Experience!), and it’s an experience that entrants will never forget, and the beautiful landscape of the Niagara Falls in the Fall is something the spectators will enjoy as they wait for their family and friends to cross the finish line.

Line up? What line up?

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of the Niagara Falls in the Fall is the fact that the majority of attractions remain open, with the others closing late in the season (mid to end of November). 90% of the Clifton Hill attractions stay open year-round, with the only closure being the outdoor play areas (Mystery Maze, Bronto’s Playland) and the outdoor 36-hole miniature golf course, Dinosaur Adventure Golf. Even those attractions can see late closures dependant on the weather. To verify, check their websites, or click here for the opening/closing dates and times of the Clifton Hill attractions on the south side of the street.

Autumn sees little to no wait times at attractions, and if you are visiting scenic rides to capture the beauty of the Niagara Falls in the Fall, you are in for a treat! The changing colours are astonishingly beautiful. Catch a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel to photograph pictures from 175 feet in the sky on top of Canada’s largest observation wheel already being situated on the peak of Clifton Hill.

Photos such as these:

Probably the best way to tour the Niagara Falls in the Fall is from directly above with an aerial view on the Niagara Helicopters. Check out some photos and video that I personally took from my ride aboard the helicopter this year by clicking the image below– what an unbelievable experience!

Get up close and personal on the Hornblower Niagara Cruises. This awesome boat tour unlike any other will get you up close and personal with the Niagara Falls well into November. Voyage to the Falls daytime tours are available as well as the unique Falls Illumination/Fireworks Cruises. Not only is the Hornblower a relatively new attraction (just over a year old), but 2015 now features an extension of the Niagara Falls Fireworks. These displays happen on Friday’s beginning on September 11th, 2015 until October 9th, 2015.

Depending on the hotel that you choose to stay at, driving around is not required. However if you do choose to take your car, you can enjoy many parking fees slashed in half as well. This is the beauty of traveling to the Niagara Falls in the Fall — Inexpensive hotel rates, harvest time in Niagara, many popular festivals and events, little to no line-ups, beautiful changing foliage, and parking fees cut dramatically.

For a reasonably priced Niagara Falls parking lot situated in a prime location to the most popular Niagara Falls attractions, and the driving directions (with video) on how to get there:

Welcome to Niagara Falls!

Things To Do

Tuesday Trivia: What Do You Know About Safari Niagara Concerts?

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*Pictured Above: Blue Rodeo — coming to Safari Niagara on Friday, August 14th, 2015*
Welcome to Tuesday Trivia! I will tackle you with questions on varying subjects on our amazing city of Niagara Falls, Canada to challenge your knowledge on how much you know about this amazing city. Today’s topic is Safari Niagara Concerts…let’s go!
Summer means getting out and enjoying attractions, good food and entertainment, and with that is the start-up of Safari Niagara concerts at their outdoor amphitheatre. Located just a 10 minute drive from Niagara Falls, Stevensville is a small community that is home to Safari Niagara, a 150-acre zoo featuring numerous exotic animals. Within the gates of this zoo, is an amazing outdoor amphitheatre perfect for holding their Safari Niagara concerts. Concession service, a beer tent and live bands under the stars is a perfect way to spend a warm Summer evening.

1. Safari Niagara has one of the largest concert venues in the region. Up to how many people does the venue accommodate? 
A) Up to 3000 people.
B) Up to 3500 people.
C) Up to 4500 people.
D) Up to 2500 people.
Answer: C.  It’s the 12th year of live concerts at this 90,000-square-foot amphitheatre. It’s one of the largest concert venues in the region with accommodations to fit up to 4,500 people.
2. Blue Rodeo will be playing at the Safari Niagara Amphitheatre on Friday, August 14th, 2015. How many records have they sold to date?
A) 2,000,000
B) 3,000,000
C) 4,000,000
D) 5,000,000
Answer: C. Blue Rodeo are inductees into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, multiple category Juno award winners, recipients of a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in Toronto and have sold in excess of four million records.
**For show details and/or to purchase online tickets to see Blue Rodeo live at Safari Niagara click here. 

IN PERSON: At Safari Niagara (2821 Stevensville Road, ON)

BY PHONE: 1-866-9-GET-TIX (1-866-943-8849)

3. Safari Niagara is holding a “Food and Wine Night” on Saturday, July 25th at the Amphitheatre. Besides the concerts, what else will this event entail?

A) Award-winning local wines.

B) Food trucks.

C) Specialty vendors.

D) All of the above.

Answer: D. The “Food and Wine Night” is something that is sure to tempt your taste buds, wet your whistle and have you celebrating all night long! Niagara’s favourite, John Fogerty and Credence Clearwater Revival Tribute Band: The Bayou Boys will be set to perform on stage, plus a night filled with award-winning local wines, food trucks with mouth-watering specials, and speciality vendors. The best part? It costs only $5 to get in at the gate.

**For a list of all their upcoming events this season click here.

4. True or False — There is assigned seating at the Amphitheatre.

A) True. You are assigned seats on a first come, first serve basis.

B) False. Get there early to get close access to the stage.

Answer: B. Tickets are General Admission. Seating is not provided, however they welcome guests to bring their own lawn chairs. Coolers and carry-ins are not permitted. Concession service and a beer tent is available. I.D is required to purchase. 

5. The Clifton Hill – Niagara Falls Fun Facebook page will be giving away a pair of tickets to TWO random lucky winners to see Blue Rodeo on August 14th. All you have to do is “like” and “share” this post off that Facebook page and comment how many of the 4 answers above that you got right, PLUS answer this question: When you purchase the Clifton Hill Fun Pass online ONLY, what do you get as a bonus? Contest closes on Monday, July 20th and the winners will be announced on Tuesday, July 21st, 2015. GOOD LUCK!!

A) 10 additional Great Canadian Midway tokens.

B) A free cup of coffee at the Tim Hortons on Clifton Hill.

C) Two admissions on the Niagara SkyWheel instead of one.

D) Two admissions on the Ghostblasters Dark Ride.

Blue Rodeo “Try”:

**For information on the Clifton Hill Fun Pass click on the image below:

Christine Lynn

clynn@cliftonhill.com

www.cliftonhill.com

Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb

Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt

Google+: www.CliftonHill.com/gplus

Pinterest: www.CliftonHill.com/pin

Instagram: @cliftonhillfun

News

Niagara Falls Information for Travel

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Are you planning a vacation to Niagara Falls? Take a tour of our website for some Niagara Falls information that you may not have known that the website offers. Aside from our regular known features such as Niagara Falls Information on attractions, dining, and booking a hotel room, www.cliftonhill.com is a go-to source for a wide variety of relevant travel information. Here’s just a few features to point out — take a full tour at your own opportunity!
Coupons!

Everyone likes to save money when they travel. You don’t need to go searching for coupon books once you arrive on Clifton Hill if you check out our Niagara Falls Coupons page beforehand. Simply go to our website, hit the “Explore” tab, and then “coupons”. Here you will find discounts on our Clifton Hill attractions, plus both our Kelsey’s and Boston Pizza Clifton Hill restaurants. Print them off and go!
Plan A Trip 

Under the “Explore” tab is the “Plan A Trip” option, which also offers sub-categories under that title. Planning a trip to Clifton Hill is easy when you refer to this page. Everything from where our ATM’s are located, driving directions to get here, where you can locate lockers to leave your belongings, Niagara Falls Border information (including access to the Niagara Peace Bridge and Ontario Highway Cams), a property map, plus our current Niagara Falls weather conditions provided by Environment Canada for the upcoming 5 days are all listed under this tab.
Clifton Hill Hours of Operation

You don’t need to question the opening and closing times of our attractions when searching for Niagara Falls information regarding this aspect. Head under “Explore”, then “Hours of Operation” for a continuously updated list on our most talked about attractions, such as the Niagara SkyWheel.
Niagara Falls Cam

There is something to be said about capturing a picture of one of the greatest Wonders of the World and actually standing face-to-face in all its glory. By the 19th century, Niagara Falls became a prime tourist destination for visitors from both sides of the border, and rightfully so — you have the ability to view three waterfalls at one time.
Now technology has allowed us to view the majestic Niagara Falls from the comfort of our own homes with access to our Niagara Falls cam, situated high above Niagara Falls in the Fallsview District. It is pointed directly towards the massive Horseshoe Falls on the Ontario, Canada side.
Nothing beats experiencing the real thing up close and personal, but this is the next best thing that you have full access to 24/7 on www.cliftonhill.com! Go to the “Explore” tab, then “Media Gallery”, and then to “Niagara Falls cam”. Happy viewing…turn up the sound for the full effect!
Niagara Falls Email Offers

On the upper left corner on our home screen, you will find our “Newsletter” tab. Click here to sign up for the most up-to-date specials and cost-saving offers on Clifton Hill. Whether you stay in Niagara for a day or a week, visit this page to save the most money on attraction tickets, hotel rooms, vacation packages, and special events.
 Niagara Falls Events

What concerts are upcoming at the Fallsview Casino? What city-wide events are occurring during your time of travel to Niagara Falls? Are there fireworks happening, and at what time do they happen? These questions are all answered under the “Events” tab. Stay up-to-date with what is going on when you plan a Niagara Falls vacation getaway.
Tourism Links
On the home page, at the bottom of the page, you will find the “Tourism Links” tab. On this page you will find a selection of useful and the most asked about travel and tourism links.
i.e.:

  • Closest liquor/beer store to Clifton Hill
  • Taxi/Car Rental numbers and locations
  • Ground Transportation (VIA Rail, GO Train, WEGO Niagara Falls, Greyhound Bus, etc.
  • Air Transportation
  • Wedding services (chapels, etc.)
  • Employment opportunities with us

 
Be sure to take a few minutes to truly discover what www.cliftonhill.com offers you when searching for some Niagara Falls Information for travel.
*www.cliftonhill.com is mobile friendly!*

Christine Lynn

clynn@cliftonhill.com

www.cliftonhill.com

Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb

Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt

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Instagram: @cliftonhillfun