The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Niagara Falls Canada With Tweens : Parenting To Go

Planning a trip to Niagara Falls, Canada with tweens or teenagers? You’re in for a mix of breathtaking views, adrenaline-pumping attractions and surprisingly great food—plus a few “that was actually cool” moments from your not-so-easily-impressed kids. We’ve been taking our kids to Niagara Falls since they were babies and we’ve visited during all four seasons (perks of having grandparents who own a bed and breakfast in Niagara on the Lake and friends from the South wanting to visit often) so when I tell you that this is the ULTIMATE guide to Niagara Falls Canada- trust me. Have I ever let you down before?

Plan a Tween-Approved Trip to Niagara Falls, Canada

Whether you’re crossing over for a weekend getaway or building a full-on family road trip, this ultimate Niagara Falls guide covers everything you need to know to keep tweens entertained (and off their phones… at least for a bit). From zip lines to Insta worthy backdrops, here’s how to make the most of your Niagara Falls adventure with your kids. I will give you the REAL REAL to help you narrow down the best Niagara Falls attractions for your family and share tips on the best places to stay in Niagara Falls, Canada.

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls With Kids and Tweens

It can be a bit overwhelming to figure out where to stay in Niagara Falls with kids because there are so many options. Yes you can do a day trip to Niagara Falls and do one attraction but if you want to truly embrace all that you can do, you should spend a full weekend in Niagara Falls, Canada. While there are AirB&Bs in the area, I prefer to stay at a Niagara Falls Hotel to be close to the action and reduce any unnecessary travel time.

We have stayed at the Hilton Niagara Falls on a couple occasions and find them to have great suite options for families who want to have separate rooms for kids and parents. During our most recent overnight visit to Niagara Falls in November 2024, we shared a two queen room with a jetted tub and enjoyed the fireworks from our Niagara hotel room. Avoiding the cold winds and crowds of people, made this one of the best places to stay in Niagara Falls, Canada for us on that winter visit.

In addition to an awesome pool area (there’s separate ones for young kids), they also have some great dining options like breakfast overlooking the falls and are connected to the Fallsview Casino (where a lot of live shows take place).

The Sheraton on the Falls is also another great option for families. We stayed here when the kids were younger and enjoyed the direct access to the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark (we didn’t have to step outside during the cold winter Niagara Falls vacation). They also have a spa on-site which makes it a great Niagara Falls hotel for girls’ getaways. I need to plan a Momcation stay here this year.

Top Attractions in Niagara Falls Canada That Tweens Will Love

There are SO many attractions in Niagara Falls and not all of them appeal to tweens. Yes, I said it. As you ponder on what all to do in Niagara Falls, Canada with teenagers, the below list will help you narrow down the options that match your child’s interest. I won’t be sending you to the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens or the Wax Museum, instead I’ll focus on the thrilling Niagara attractions that will pique their interest.

Waterfall & Nature-Based Attractions | You’re in Niagara Falls so you MUST do at least ONE of these

Niagara Falls Boat Tour : City Cruises gets you up close and soaking which is very thrilling. You’re given free ponchos here but trust me when I tell you that you’ll be soaked and your shoes wet. Do this earlier in the day so you can dry off. Yes, you can sit downstairs and be dry but I don’t think it’s worth the experience if you aren’t on the top deck. If you have a child who get cranky when wet, omit this ride that takes you to the base of the Horseshoe Falls.

Journey Behind the Falls : You don’t get as wet here so if you prefer to be dry-ish, explore the tunnels and observation decks right behind the falls. Not to worry, you’ll still feel the power of the falls at this Niagara attraction. They give you free ponchos and I advise you to wear them if you don’t want any drops of water hitting you. I will mention that there is an opportunity to get really wet here if you want (and depending on which direction the winds are blowing) but you can avoid getting soaked just as easily.

Niagara Falls White Water Walk : You get to be outdoors throughout this experience (minus a quick elevator ride) so it’s a popular choice for families visiting Niagara Falls, Canada. This Niagara attraction is a self-guided boardwalk experience that takes you along the edge of the Niagara River, right beside some of the world’s wildest white-water rapids. The rapids here have the most intense and dangerous classification, and is not navigable by boat. This fact alone will make tweens want to visit this one! There’s many lookout points and there’s safety barriers to protect everyone.

Pro Tip : If you have collectors in your family, get the free Niagara Passport stamped at each attraction you visit! The free books are available at select attractions and at the welcome centres.

Unique Niagara Falls Attractions for Older Kids

If your child finds most things boring and gives you the classic tween eye-roll every time you suggest something “fun”, then these Niagara Falls attractions might actually earn you some cool-parent points. This list of things to do in Niagara Falls with tweens and teens is full of adrenaline, hands-on experiences and just enough wow-factor to make them put down their phones

Niagara Parks Power Station : Don’t let the word “power station” fool you—this place is actually super cool. My kids whined before they went here but then asked to return. So there’s that! Think massive turbines, steampunk vibes and a 180-foot descent underground into a tunnel that leads you to a viewing platform at the river’s edge. There’s interactive exhibits, a scavenger hunt (ask staff for the free book!) and a free audio guide that even the “I’m bored” crowd will appreciate. The backdrop at the end of the tunnel is great for family pictures and the ‘gram. We have visited this Canadian attraction a couple times and still spend an hour and a half here easily-see if you can catch the various shows and exhibits on the main floor. If time permits you will want to catch the shows on the top floor because it’s quite fun and educational. This attraction is also open in the evening but we’re yet to enjoy the evening lightshow. I have been told that kids would find it less interesting than the daytime activities.

Clifton Hill : This Niagara attraction actually has nothing to do with the falls! This is our Canadian version of the Vegas strip in many ways. It’s fairly demure in the daytime but it’s extra pizazz-ey come nighttime. My kids are night owls and tend to appreciate the lights, sounds and weird attractions here. There’s haunted houses, thrilling games, some abandoned looking arcades and spots like Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Akira’s speed demon ways were on full display at the Niagara Speedway (basically go-karts on a raised track that feels way cooler than you expect) while Apollo sulked outside because our 11 year old was not tall enough to drive a car on his own and he didn’t want his mom driving him around. Things can get pricey here so narrow down your options by having each child choose their top 2 activities in Clifton Hill.

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark : We took the kids here when they were toddlers and it continues to be s fun place, especially during a winter visit to Niagara Falls. With 16 slides, a massive tipping bucket and year-round heated pools, Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is a great way to spend a chilly afternoon. Parents, grab a lounger near the hot tub and enjoy a rare moment of relaxation while they burn off that morning’s sugar rush.

WildPlay Zipline to the Falls : This one’s for the daredevils and thrill seekers. WildPlay Zipline launches you from a platform near the American Falls (but still on the Canadian side) and sends you soaring 670 meters (about 2,200 feet) toward the base of the Horseshoe Falls. It’s a seated zipline, so it feels safe, even for cautious moms like myself. Just remember to wear pants for this ride because there is a camera that tracks your every move. At the end of the ride you get to see the footage and can purchase it too. And yes, there’s a return golf cart to shuttle you back, so you don’t have to hike back to where you started from. The Niagara Falls zipline is right next to the cruise, so if you plan to do them together, ensure you do the zipline first because you don’t want to do this all wet! This Niagara Canada attraction is open even in the winter so you could easily see the Falls frozen from above!

WildPlay’s Whirlpool Adventure Course (a.k.a. the Treetop Trek) : Looking to dispel some energy? This scenic tree-climbing activity is an awesome playground for all ages. There’s rope bridges, wobbly logs, zip lines and so much more. There are different levels (Classic and Extreme courses are perfect for adventurous tweens and teens), so your kid can push their limits while you cheer from below (or join in if you’re feeling brave). This Niagara Falls activity is located away from the hustle of the main strip and has free parking on-site.

Whirlpool Aero Car : This vintage cable car has been crossing the Niagara Gorge since 1916, and it still brings the wow factor. Suspended above the swirling Whirlpool Rapids, the ride gives you views of both the Canadian and U.S. sides of the gorge-no passports needed! The ride’s short (about a 10 minute round trip), but the photos you’ll get? Totally worth it. You do have to switch around whilst suspended in air to ensure everyone gets a proper view ( I love that they do this), so if anyone in your group is anxious about heights, this might be one to avoid. You’re high up, exposed to fresh air and gorgeous views! This attraction also offers free parking so it’s a solid starting and ending point. That said, this is the only Niagara Falls attraction where there has been days when I couldn’t get in. They book up quickly on most days- so pre-book your slot if you can.

Niagara Helicopter Tours : Yes, it’s a bit of a splurge, but if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to go all out—this is it. Click here and you can read all about our helicopter experience when the kids were younger! The helicopters lift off just a few minutes from the Falls and gives you a bird’s-eye view of the river, the gorge and all three waterfalls. Hands-down the coolest thing to do in Niagara Falls. Even the hardest-to-impress tween will be wide-eyed when they’re soaring above the mist. Attractions Ontario has a $10 off coupon to this Niagara Falls activity!

Niagara Butterfly Conservatory or Bird Kingdom : Both of these attractions are great for animal lovers. You would spend a bit longer at the Bird Kingdom than at the Butterfly Conservatory but the latter does have lush plants if you have a budding botanist! Bird Kingdom is the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary and this multi-level rainforest environment houses over 400 exotic birds from around the globe. The Butterfly Conservatory is home to over 2,000 free-flying butterflies from more than 45 species, it’s one of the largest glass-enclosed conservatories in North America. As you can see, both are solid choices, for families visiting Niagara Falls.

kids at butterfly conservatory garden in niagara

Niagara Falls Canada Family Guide

Free Things to do in Niagara Falls

Because let’s be honest—Niagara Falls adventures can add up fast, especially when you’ve got tweens or teens with expensive tastes and endless appetites. My first tip is that you can see the actual Niagara Falls without paying a cent. Just walk along the board walk and you can enjoy unlimited views! Thankfully, there are some awesome free things to do in Niagara Falls that are actually fun and won’t have your wallet begging for mercy. Whether you’re looking to fill in a few hours between paid attractions or just want to slow down the spending, these spots will keep the family entertained without costing a dime. Okay I lie. Someone will find some treat somewhere and you’ll be spending something somewhere, even on my list of free things to do in Niagara Falls. That’s life with kids and this Niagara Falls Canada travel guide is all about keeping it real!

Niagara Glen Nature Centre + Hiking Trails : This is hands-down one of our favourite free Niagara experiences. The Niagara Glen is a protected area that feels like a secret forest tucked away from the tourist buzz. It has rugged trails, ancient boulders and overlooks the brilliant turquoise waters of the Niagara River. If your tween loves climbing over rocks, spotting fossils or pretending they’re in a fantasy movie—this is their zone. Be sure to stop by the Nature Centre at the top and know that there’s a steep set of metal stairs to bring you to the hiking trails. Please be careful here and if you have wild children, stick to the centre portion. IF your teens are well behaved, then carefully roam the routes on the edge and enjoy the views from the bottom of the #25 marker on the river trail because it is absolutely awe-inspiring. You may even feel the rush of the whirlpool boats speed by and you can definitely wave to those on the U.S side of the river! Just be careful and stick to the trails because those rapids are crazy powerful and too many people tend to think they’re invincible. There is no ticket required to visit the Niagara Glen Reserve but you do have to pay for parking.

Niagara Falls Illumination (Nighttime Niagara Falls Light Show) : The waterfalls are bathed in shifting colours thanks to a stunning LED light display on a nightly basis. Your kids will be too busy snapping pics and recording videos to say they’re bored. You can view the illumination from anywhere along the promenade, but our go-to spot is the edge near Table Rock—it’s close enough to feel the mist and see every detail. Check the illumination schedule here.

Niagara Falls Fireworks (Seasonal) : If your visit lines up with the fireworks schedule (usually weekends from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving, plus special holiday events), you’re in for a quick show! The fireworks are launched right above the falls and it’s an epic way to end the night. Get there a bit early to snag a good viewing spot—either near Queen Victoria Park or along the railings near the falls. We’ve also lucked out watching them from our hotel window (shoutout to Fallsview rooms!). It’s loud, colourful and 100% free.

Dufferin Islands : A peaceful picnic spot with little walking trails and bridges—great if you want a quieter moment with your crew. In the winter, it’s also where the Winter Festival of Lights kicks off.

Heartland Forrest : This isn’t on the main strip but nestled in the southwest corner of Niagara Falls. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle, Heartland Forest offers a serene escape into nature for visitors of all ages and abilities. Spanning over 200 acres, this accessible nature preserve features 4 kilometers of easy-to-navigate trails that meander through Carolinian forest, wetlands and grasslands. You can explore Canada’s largest accessible treehouses, turtle and fish ponds, a wheelchair-friendly mini-putt course and a 14,000-square-foot Nature Centre. It is open year-round with free admission and we’ve enjoyed visiting here since the kids were toddlers.

Niagara Parkway Walk : Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along this scenic path that runs alongside the river. You’ll pass by the floral clock, Queenston Heights and endless photo ops.

Ten Thousand Buddhas Sarira Stupa : While most tweens and teens may not want to venture into a place of worship, this one might be a a bit different. This Buddhist Temple is open most days of the week (currently they are closed on Tuesdays) and offers free guided tours so you can learn about the space and practices. It’s an easy way to feel like you’re in Asia, whilst visiting Niagara Falls Canada.

off the beaten path Niagara Falls Temple

Window Shopping on Clifton Hill : Okay, okay—we know we just sent you here in the “paid attractions” section, but there’s also fun to be had just wandering around. Check out the quirky store fronts, giant gumball machines and oversized statues without spending a cent. Pop into the Hershey store (you will want to spend some money on those shakes I suppose), District 11 and the Fudge Factory.

Best Tween-Friendly Food Spots

Most folks will be quick to tell you that the cost of food in Niagara Falls is crazy expensive and not worth the splurge. I disagree. Yes you’ll see some unnecessarily expensive burgers and hotdogs but there’s loads of other worthwhile options from splurge worthy experiences to flavourful cheap eats. So I’m going to share our recommendations with you below. Whether you’re fuelling up in-between a busy day of sightseeing or just need a snack to avoid a tween meltdown, Niagara Falls has plenty of options. My advice? Let your kids pick a couple of food stops themselves—it gives them some control (and saves you from complaints later). This is how you do Niagara Falls with older kids!

The Table Rock Market : Conveniently located right by the Falls, this is our go-to for grab-and-go meals when hunger strikes mid-adventure. Pizza, poutine, sandwiches—you’ll find all the kid-friendly classics here without the wait time of a sit-down spot. Plus, you can eat at their food court style seating area while looking at the actual falls. This is the only easily accessible food spot if you’re on that end.
Taco N Tequila : Colourful, lively and full of flavour—this Mexican spot near Clifton Hill is fun for the whole family. Their tacos and nachos are a safe bet, and the mocktails are a hit with kids who want to feel fancy. Parents, you’ll find some solid drink options here too!
Brasa Brazilian Steakhouse : If you’ve got a hungry tween or teen who eats like a grown adult, this is a winner. All-you-can-eat meats carved tableside, a killer salad bar and live entertainment make dinner feel like an event. Go starving because there’s a lot to consume at this restaurant located at the Hilton Niagara Falls. They have Samba nights on the weekends and if you like to dine early, there’s $10 off for reservations made between 5 and 5:45 p.m.
Antica Pizzeria & Ristorante : A local favourite and a total crowd-pleaser, we’ve been going to this Niagara Falls restaurant since the kids were babies. Their wood-fired pizzas are thin, crispy, and customizable. There’s pasta, panini and gelato too—so everyone leaves happy and full.
The Flying Saucer Restaurant : This UFO-shaped diner is budget-friendly with large portions, serves up classic diner food (hello, all-day breakfast and milkshakes) and has just enough kitsch to keep tweens amused. It’s casual, quick and hits the spot with teenagers too.
Chakna Indian Street Food : If your tween is adventurous with flavours, this casual Niagara Falls restaurant offers all the bold, spicy goodness of Indian street food—from pani puri to falooda. This Indian restaurant near White Water Walk is fast, flavourful and always hits the spot for us. I will quickly mention that there are many Indian and Pakistani restaurants near Clifton Hill and they’re all cheap and cheerful, so you really can’t go wrong if you’re trying to do Niagara Falls on a budget. We also enjoy Pakistani food at Kabab and Thali closer to the Niagara Power Station.

Pro Tip : If you’re strapped for time the grab and go I mentioned first is your best bet because everything else is a bit of a trek and will need an Uber/WEGO ride if you’re parked somewhere for the day. Most food options aren’t right by the Falls which makes it impossible to grab a decent sit down lunch nearby the attractions.

Tips for Keeping Tweens Engaged (and Not Eye-Rolling)

Explore the Adventure Pass : Niagara Parks has an Adventure Pass for those looking to do ALL the main attractions. Your wallet will be happy because the pass is cheaper than buying individual tickets to ALL of the main attractions. In addition, pass holders receive discounts at Niagara Parks’ restaurants and gift shops, enhancing the overall value of the pass. All that said, crunch those numbers and ensure you’re planning to visit the various attractions on the pass – it usually only makes sense if you are going to do ALL of them. Get those tweens involved in the planning so they don’t complain later!

Discounts and Deals : Be sure to check Groupon to see if there’s discounts to various activities. You can usually find Niagara Falls deals for restaurants and activities on Clifton Hill. Costco Canada also has Clifton Hill passes if you’re planning to spend a few hours at the gaming attractions. And of course, Attractions Ontario is your go-to resource for coupons!

Give Yourself Time : It’s hard to predict the wait time at the Niagara Falls Canada attractions so give yourself time. I’ve waited 30 minutes to enter some and the next day, the same attraction had ZERO wait time. I would limit yourself to 3 attractions each day and ensure you give yourself some idle time to roam and around and take in the free views.

Wear Comfortable Shoes (and waterproof ones) : There’s a lot of walking when you’re at this Canadian landmark so wear flat shoes and be prepared to get them soaked if you’re on things like the City Cruises boat ride.

Navigation : The attractions are spread out (like 2 hours walking distance between the two furthest ones) and parking isn’t easy to come by. We prefer to Uber between some of the larger distances or spread each side to different days. You can also use the WEGO shuttle (free with some of the Adventure Passes) but know that at times there can be significant wait times between buses.

Parking : Niagara Falls parking can get expensive so here’s our tips. Park at the Aero Cable Car attractions because it offers free parking at Niagara Falls. There’s also a really cheap ($5-10) flat fee parking lot near Victoria and Magdalen streets for your Clifton Hill days. The Adventure Pass also gives you free parking at the Rapidsview parking lot C and you can then take the free WEGO shuttle BUT I once waited 20 minutes for the shuttle in the cold and hated my life! Here’s more parking information.

Getting to Niagara Falls Canada

You can drive to Niagara Falls Canada of course. You can also fly into Buffalo or Pearson International and rent cars, take a taxi or find a public bus. Yes it’s easy to get to Niagara Falls from downtown Toronto without a car – if that’s what you’re wondering. I have shared ALL the tips on getting to Niagara Falls in this article .

Best Season to visit

No matter when you visit, you’ll have a great Niagara Falls experience. May to October is when nearly ALL Niagara Falls attractions are open. That said, most of them remain open in the winter and the crowds are less. Personally, I love visiting Niagara Falls with my family during the spring and fall months because most attractions are open and the crowds aren’t as intense. All that said, seeing Niagara Falls frozen should be on everyone’s bucket list!