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10 Best Places For Scenic Views In Niagara Falls

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Do you wish to take home some stunning photos from your trip here? Here are 10 of the best places for incredible seasonal scenic views in Niagara Falls.

#1 Skylon Tower

Cost: $18/Adult and $9/Child

You will be 775 feet high when you do the “Ride-to-the-Top” at the Skylon Tower. You will get an incredible 360° view of the Niagara Falls and the surrounding landscape via the Indoor/Outdoor Observation Decks. The elevators are also glass-enclosed. See the Falls, the Great Gorge, and even the city skylines of Buffalo, New York and Toronto!

#2 Oakes Garden Theatre

Cost: FREE

The Oakes Garden Theatre offers a few differing spots to get great photos of the Niagara Falls. The park is located at the bottom of Clifton Hill and the Niagara Parkway/River Road, and provides scenic views from the benches (as shown). It is also built in a shape in which at any point within a pergola built at the top of the park, you will be presented with a panoramic view of the Falls. It connects two open pavillions where one delivers a picturesque view of the Horseshoe Falls, and the other of the American Falls.

#3 Niagara Helicopters

Cost: from $185/Adult and $113/Child 

For a one-of-a-kind adventure, the Niagara Helicopters is the way to go! Every photo you take will be awe-inspiring, with views of the Niagara Falls, the Sir Adam Beck Generating plant, the Botanical Gardens, the Niagara River from the Whirlpool area, the Rainbow Bridge and beyond!

#4 Niagara SkyWheel

Cost: $15/Adult and $7/Child

The Niagara SkyWheel offers panoramic views of the Niagara Falls and beyond from 175 feet off the ground from the top of Clifton Hill. From this vantage point you will be treated to memorable views of the Horseshoe and American Falls, the Niagara River, Niagara Parks and other landmarks. The gondolas are also climate-controlled.

#5 Table Rock Welcome Centre

Cost: FREE

The Table Rock Welcome Centre features a mixture of Gift Shops, the Elements Restaurant, the Journey Behind the Falls and Niagara’s Fury attractions. Inside this centre, there is a two-level indoor viewing gallery called the “Grand Hall”, where visitors are treated to an up-close view of the Falls.

#6 Journey Behind the Falls

Cost: $19.00/Adult and $12.50/Child

Journey Behind the Falls attraction gives you the opportunity to descend 150 feet through bedrock to tunnels that will overlook experiencing the Horseshoe Falls from directly underneath the cascading Falls!

#7 The Niagara Glen

Cost: FREE (but be very careful and wear the appropriate gear)

The Niagara Glen offers an opportunity to view the natural, rugged beauty of the region through trails, rock climbing, and close access to the Niagara River. Direct access to the Niagara Glen trails is found at the highest part of the gorge, where a metal staircase sits at the edge of the cliff. The Glen overlooks the Niagara River Gorge Whirlpool.

#8 Whirlpool Aero Car

Cost: $19/Adult and $12.50/Child
*Open Seasonally April – November*

Get out your pictures for a beautiful shot of the Niagara Gorge from the Whirlpool Aero Car. As you soar across the torrent of water below, you will witness one of the world’s most frightening natural phenomena’s, the Niagara Whirlpool below. The car travels safely between two different points of the Niagara River. the trip is slightly more than 1 kilometre (3,600 feet).

#9 Queen Victoria Park/Niagara Parkway

Cost: FREE

Of course, there’s no better place for a free view of the Niagara Falls than along the Niagara Parkway at Queen Victoria Park! Whether you are taking a stroll along the pathway, checking out the Zimmerman fountain, sunbathing in the grassy field, or purchasing tickets from the Hornblower landing, you are offered a first-class view of the Falls from here. The park also features a major stone garden, a Hybrid tea rose garden, and attractive carpet bed displays.

#10 Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower)

Cost: From $33.50/Adult and $23.50/Child

Niagara City Cruises is an intimate tour that gets you as close as possible to the breathtaking flow of water, power and mist that is the magnificent Niagara Falls. Within the Niagara Great Gorge you will journey past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and into the very heart of the famous Horseshoe Falls. Grab a camera and get some amazing shots!

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Free Outdoor Experiences in Niagara Falls

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Are you excited to dive into the breathtaking beauty of Niagara Falls but concerned about the impact on your wallet? Well, worry no more! We’ve got a solution that lets you be a tourist for a day without spending a single penny.

Get ready to uncover the secrets of enjoying the splendor of Canada’s most famous Falls and exploring its renowned attractions on a budget.

In this article, we’ve got you covered with a bunch of fantastic ways to soak in the magnificence of Niagara Falls and discover all the must-see sights that make this place so extraordinary. So, let’s jump right in and make the most of this amazing destination without breaking the bank!

Floral Clock

Make your way to the Niagara Parks Floral Clock, a botanical masterpiece that showcases intricate horticultural design. This magnificent timepiece boasts a meticulously arranged floral face, where a stunning array of colorful blooms creates a captivating display. Capture the perfect Instagram-worthy photo against this natural work of art and admire the surrounding gardens, all without spending a single dollar.

Besides the majestic Niagara Falls, the Floral Clock is arguably the most photographed attraction here. The best part? It’s free to witness. The floral design is changed twice a year according to the season. The face of the clock is maintained by the Niagara Parks horticulture staff. It is a fully functional clock, whose mechanism is kept working by Ontario Hydro. The clock is 40 feet (12 metres) wide, making it one of the largest floral clocks in the world. The face of the clock is filled with 15,000 to 20,000 carpet plants and colourful annuals. Behind the clock, there is a tower that reaches 7 metres tall which houses Westminster chimes that greet visitors each quarter hour.

Location: 14004 Niagara Pkwy, Queenston, ON.

Niagara Glen Nature Reserve

For the adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, a trip to Niagara Glen is an absolute must. This stunning nature reserve showcases ancient rock formations and picturesque hiking trails that wind through a lush Carolinian forest. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you traverse the trails, capturing awe-inspiring views of the Niagara River whirlpool and its surrounding landscapes. Explore this hidden gem, free of charge, and revel in the tranquility it offers.

The Niagara Glen is a natural paradise you most definitely will need to take in! It’s one of the best, completely free Niagara experiences. The Niagara Glen was designated a Nature Reserve in 1992, and it is a geological snapshot of 460 million years of natural history and the evolution of Niagara Falls. There are approximately 490 species of plants and animals that live here. Bring your camera (and comfortable footwear)! 

Location: Niagara Glen, 3050 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON.

Free Views Of The Niagara Falls

To fully appreciate the grandeur of Niagara Falls, embark on a picturesque walk along the Niagara Parkway. This enchanting waterfront promenade offers breathtaking views of the Falls, allowing you to revel in their awe-inspiring majesty without spending a single cent. Feel the mist on your face as you stroll alongside the foaming waters, and capture priceless memories against the backdrop of one of nature’s greatest wonders.

If you’d like alternative views of the Niagara Falls and don’t mind splurging for an attraction, we recommend observing from the Niagara SkyWheel, viewing from the Journey Behind the Falls, or getting up close (and wet!) aboard the Niagara City Cruises. On the US side, try the Cave of the Winds, or the Maid of the Mist boat ride. HOWEVER, you can get great views without spending a dime from the Table Rock Complex, from Queen Victoria Park, along the Niagara Parkway, and from Clifton Hill’s beautiful Oakes Garden Theatre

Location:  6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON

Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens

The Niagara Parks is known for maintaining its impeccable gardens, so you need to experience first-hand the grounds of the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture. At the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, you get to enjoy close to 100 acres of perfectly groomed floral and planted paradise.

You’ll see perennials, rhododendrons, azaleas, formal parterre garden, shade, herb and vegetable plantings, as well as the world-famous rose garden featuring over 2,400 roses. It’s free to wander these gardens and its open all year round. There is a charge for parking though.

Location: 2565 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON.

Free Fireworks Spectacle

When the night sky flanks the Falls, prepare to be dazzled by the mesmerizing fireworks display that illuminates the cascading waters. From late spring through early fall, Niagara Parks hosts free fireworks shows over the Falls, treating visitors to a sensational visual extravaganza.

Find a comfortable vantage point along the promenade and witness the skies come alive with vibrant colors, creating a truly magical experience that costs you nothing.

Schedule: 10:00pm Every Night until October 9th.

Location:  5900 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON

Queenston Heights Park

You can’t visit Niagara without setting foot upon a piece of important Canadian historical significance. During the War of 1812, Queenston Heights was the grounds of the historic “Battle of Queenston Heights.” Erected on the grounds here is the famous “Brock’s Monument“. It is where Sir General Brock died heroically in a fight of courageous effort and strength. Visitors can tour the battlefield, and climb the monument for an amazing view of the land. This monuments stands 56 metres. It was rebuilt in 1853 after being bombed by a terrorist in 1840. Queenston Heights Park commemorates both Sir Isaac Brock and Laura Secord, for their roles during the War of 1812 with memorials. Have a picnic here, there’s a splash pad for the kids, a band shell, tennis courts and a snack bar.

Location: 14184 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON.

Dufferin Islands

Escape the bustling crowds and discover the serene oasis of Dufferin Islands. Located just a stone’s throw away from the Falls, this tranquil parkland boasts an array of picturesque bridges, walking paths, and lush greenery.

Spend an afternoon exploring the enchanting islands, reveling in the peaceful ambiance, and indulging in a picnic amidst nature’s splendor. It’s an ideal spot for a serene getaway that won’t put a strain on your wallet.

Location: 6345 Dufferin Isle Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1A0

Having an amazing time at Niagara Falls, without breaking the bank is totally possible and totally worth it! Just follow these budget-friendly tips and get ready to be blown away by the incredible beauty of Canada’s most famous Falls and all the awesome attractions that make Niagara a must-visit spot.

So, grab your adventurous spirit, round up your favorite people, and get ready for an unforgettable journey where priceless experiences are waiting for you, absolutely free of charge. Let’s make some memories!

Things To Do

Niagara Falls Weekend Getaways

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Can you believe in less than 4 weeks it’s Labour Day? Where did the summer go?
If you haven’t had a chance to get away for a few days this summer it’s time to start planning. Quite often I’m asked, “As someone who lives in Niagara, how would you spend two days here?”
Assuming I was coming from Toronto for a 2 day getaway, as a couple or with family, my itinerary would look something like this:
Not being an early riser, I would arrive in Niagara Falls around noon and would stay at the Comfort Inn on Clifton Hill of course. While check in isn’t until 2PM,  the bell desk will store my bags and we  would grab a quick bite to eat at Tim Hortons or Wendy’s.
Then it would be off to the Whirlpool Jet Boats in Queenston or simply stroll to the bottom of Clifton Hill for a ride on the new Hornblower Niagara Cruises. The refreshing coolness of being on the water, accompanied by splashing waves on the Jet Boat or the Falls bellowing mist while sailing on the Hornblower cruise vessel, is sure to wake you up after the drive to Niagara and lunch. Either way, its way more fun than a shower!

Next it’s off to the Niagara Glen across from the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. Taking the staircase down into the Glen, you will feel like you are entering a different world. It feels like the temperature drops 10 degrees as you hike the trails of the Glen at your own speed. You can get right up to the river at this point sitting on the rocks you can wave at the Jet Boat as it comes and goes out of the whirlpool.

The next part of my day would be either exploring the fruit belt, between Queenston and Niagara-on-the–Lake, stocking up on fresh fruit for later, or stopping at a winery or two for gourmet wine samples.
Then it’s back to the Clifton Hill Niagara Falls Hotel for check–in and to relax for an hour to recharge and get ready for a fun filled night on Clifton Hill! Before dinner we’d pick up our Fun Passes at the SkyWheel, then enjoy a delicious meal at Kelsey’s, with its prime view of either Clifton Hill or Victoria Ave from its open air patios and great food at reasonable prices!

Then with Fun Pass in hand, it’s off to let loose on The Hill! The Clifton Hill Fun Pass is the best deal in town, 5 of the top attractions in the city plus Great Canadian Midway tokens for $25.95 is less than $5 for each attraction. The Skywheel is spectacular at night as is Dinosaur Adventure Golf; They set the stage for a fun-filled evening the whole family can enjoy.
Clifton Hill is still hopping right into the wee hours of the morning, and is a great place to end the evening with a night cap at Boston Pizza / Strike Rock and Bowl.


The next morning would start with a satisfying breakfast provided free with your hotel room at the Comfort Inn. Then we would either take a stroll down to the Falls or if we had purchased the Marineland package as part of our hotel stay it would be off to Marineland for the day.
Then it’s homeward bound after enjoying a great mix of excitement and relaxation for 2 days. The combination of great deals and free activities makes this trip affordable as well as fun for couples or families.
That’s how I would spend a two day getaway in Niagara Falls.
How would you spend your two day getaway to Niagara?