Niagara Falls Canada: Perfect 3 Day Itinerary
Planning a trip to Niagara Falls can feel overwhelming, especially with so much to see and do in a short time. One day is never enough to fully experience the breathtaking views of the Falls, exciting attractions, and nearby nature trails.
Staying 2–3 nights gives you the chance to explore parks, hike, and even visit local wineries. As a seasoned traveler and a local expert, I’m here to help.
This 3 day Niagara Falls itinerary is designed to make planning simple, with clear steps to maximize your adventure and create unforgettable memories. It is ideal for first-time visitors to Niagara.
Three Days in Niagara Falls, Canada
This itinerary packs a lot into three days in Niagara Falls, Canada.
If you prefer a slower pace, feel free to skip a couple of activities each day without missing the key highlights. Niagara is a family-friendly destination, and most of these activities are suitable for kids.
Getting around is simple, whether you’re walking in the Fallsview area, driving, or using the convenient WEGO bus system. Uber is also a possibility in Niagara Falls for those times when you don’t want to drive or the shuttle isn’t convenient.
Overview: Day 1 in Niagara Falls
✓ Table Rock Welcome Centre
✓ Canadian Horseshoe Falls
✓ Niagara River Parkway
✓ Hornblower Boat Cruise
✓ White Water Walk
✓ Whirlpool Aero Car
✓ Niagara SkyWheel
Overview: Day 2 in Niagara Falls
✓ Sunrise Over Niagara Falls
✓ Rainbow Bridge to the United States
✓ Cave of the Winds (US Side)
✓ New York Niagara Falls State Park (US Side)
✓ Alternative: Journey Behind the Falls (Canadian Side)
✓ Skylon Tower
✓ Clifton Hill
✓ Niagara Power Station
Overview: Day 3 in Niagara Falls
✓ Drive the Niagara River Parkway
✓ Floral Clock
✓ Niagara-on-the-Lake
✓ Niagara Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours
✓ Butterfly Conservatory
✓ Botanical Gardens
✓ Niagara Wineries
Niagara Falls Itinerary: Day 1
Day 1 focuses on the main Fallsview tourist area, where you’ll explore the waterfalls from multiple angles and enjoy the spectacular views from the Canadian side.
Stop 1: Table Rock Welcome Centre
⏰ Time: about 30 minutes $ Free ✓ Open All Year
I always like to start my trip at the Table Rock Welcome Centre, the main hub for visitors on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.
It’s super convenient—you can grab a map, book your timed entry tickets, and plan your day all in one spot. The Welcome Centre is right next to the main WEGO Bus Terminal, so you can also become familiar with this hop-on, hop-off tourist bus system.
Stop 2: Visit the Canadian Horseshoe Falls
⏰ Time: about 30 minutes $ Free ✓ Open All Year
Stepping outside the Table Rock Welcome Centre, you’ll immediately find yourself at the breathtaking Horseshoe Falls. Also called the Canadian Falls, this is the highlight of any Niagara trip—and trust me, the view never gets old.
Standing at 54 meters (177 feet) tall, the falls’ crescent shape creates a mesmerizing cascade that plunges into the Niagara River below.
The power and beauty of the Horseshoe Falls will leave you in absolute awe. My family often has to drag me away as I can spend hours just watching the falls from here.
Stop 3: Walk Along the the Niagara River Parkway
⏰ Time: about 1 hour $ Free ✓ Open All Year
After taking in the Canadian Falls, I love strolling along the trail in front of the Niagara Parkway. This scenic walk offers stunning views of all three falls, including the American Falls, the smaller Bridal Veil Falls, and the rushing Niagara River below.
You’ll also spot the Hornblower and Maid of the Mist boat cruises making their way to the base of the Horseshoe Falls—it’s such a cool sight!
The trail is about 2 km and takes around 30 minutes to walk (without stopping). Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots for breathtaking photos and get an appreciation for the magnificence of Niagara Falls.
LUNCH: Queen Victoria Place Restaurant
When it’s time for lunch, I always recommend the Queen Victoria Place Restaurant located on the Niagara River Parkway. The restaurant overlooks Niagara Falls, offering stunning views in a calm, relaxing atmosphere.
You can choose to dine indoors or enjoy your meal on the spacious covered terrace with a direct view of both the American and Horseshoe Falls.
The food is great, but it’s the view that truly makes this spot worth the visit. Sitting here, watching the Falls while you eat, is such a memorable experience—it’s the perfect midday break.
Stop 4: Take a Niagara City Cruise (Ride the Hornblower)
⏰ Time: about an 1 hour $ Buy Tickets Now ✓ Open Seasonally: May – November
Next, hop aboard the Niagara City Cruise—this 20-minute Voyage to the Falls tour is an absolute must!
Sailing just 51 meters below the brink, this boat ride offers incredible views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and, of course, the iconic Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
For visitors on the Canadian side, the Hornblower is the way to go. I always head to the front of the boat and grab a spot by the railing for the best experience.
Be prepared to get wet (free rain ponchos are provided), but the close-up view of the Horseshoe Falls is completely worth it. It’s one of those experiences you’ll remember forever.
Stop 5: Go on the White Water Walk
⏰ Time: about an 1 hour $ Tickets Required ✓ Open Seasonally: April – Mid-November
To experience the raw power of the Niagara River, head to the White Water Walk, located just 4 km north of the Falls. It’s easy to get there using the WEGO bus.
This attraction gives you an incredible up-close view of the Class 6 whitewater rapids—some of the wildest in the world! Start by taking an elevator 70 meters down, then walk through a 73-meter-long tunnel to reach the boardwalk.
The boardwalk itself is about 305 meters (1,000 feet) long, with stairs leading to two observation areas right at the river’s edge. I love walking along the boardwalk—it’s such a cool way to experience the rapids and grab some great photos. It’s a pretty unforgettable experience.
Stop 6: Ride the Whirlpool Aero Car
⏰ Time: about 30 minutes $ Tickets Required ✓ Open Seasonally: April – Mid-November
The Whirlpool Aero Car was such a highlight for me—I loved it so much that I rode it twice in a row! This historic cable car has been operating since 1916, and it’s a fantastic way to see the Niagara Whirlpool from above.
Suspended high above the racing rapids of the Niagara River, the Aero Car transports you 3,500 feet across the gorge on a round trip that takes about 10 minutes. The ride is standing-only, and halfway through, everyone switches sides so everyone can enjoy views from both angles.
Not far from the White Water Walk, it’s easy to fit this in on the same day. The views are incredible—just don’t drop your camera into the rapids below! It’s one of those experiences I recommend to anyone visiting the Falls.
DINNER: Choose a Spot in the Fallsview Tourist Area
After a full day of exploring, I’d recommend sticking close to the Fallsview tourist area for dinner. There are some great options to satisfy your appetite:
- The Flour Mill Scratch Kitchen: Located at the Old Stone Inn Hotel, this spot serves up fresh, locally inspired dishes.
- Taco N Tequila: Perfect if you’re in the mood for flavorful Mexican food with fun vibes.
- Copacabana Brazilian Steakhouse: A meat lover’s paradise, featuring all-you-can-eat skewers served tableside.
During peak season, I always recommend making a reservation to avoid long waits. These spots are popular for a reason—you can’t go wrong with any of them!
Stop 7: Ride the Niagara SkyWheel
⏰ Time: about 30 minutes $ Buy Tickets Now ✓ Open All Year
End your day with a relaxing ride on the Niagara SkyWheel, located in the heart of Clifton Hill. This giant Ferris wheel takes you 53 meters (175 feet) above the ground, offering spectacular views of the Falls and the city.
Each group gets their own gondola, giving you a private and peaceful ride. Once everyone is loaded, the SkyWheel goes around several times, so you’ll have plenty of chances to take in the views and snap photos from the top.
It’s a perfect way to wind down and soak up the beauty of Niagara Falls at night.
✓ Buy Tickets for the Niagara Sky Wheel Now
Niagara Falls Itinerary: Day 2
Day 2 focuses on experiencing the Falls from the American side and enjoying incredible views from high vantage points.
Stop 1: Watch the Sunrise Over Niagara Falls
⏰ Time: about 30 minutes $ Free ✓ Open All Year
If you’re an early bird, start your day by watching the sunrise over Niagara Falls. It’s an unforgettable experience that’s well worth waking up for.
If you’re staying in a Fallsview hotel room, you can enjoy the view right from your window.
For a more immersive experience, head outside early to capture that perfect, crowd-free photo of the Falls as the sun rises. Trust me, it’s worth getting up early!
Stop 2: Walk the Rainbow Bridge to the United States
⏰ Time: about 1 hour minutes $1.00 ✓ Open All Year
With three days in Niagara Falls, I highly recommend spending a few hours exploring the American side of Niagara Falls.
Walking across the Rainbow Bridge is simple and offers stunning views of the Falls from above. All you need is your passport and $1.00 in cash to cross. You’ll go through customs on both sides, which usually only takes a few minutes.
Once across, head to Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the U.S., for some unique perspectives of the Falls.
You can also hop on the park’s scenic trolley for an easy way to get around and see all the key spots. It’s a fun way to experience Niagara from a different angle.
Stop 3: Go on Cave of the Winds
⏰ Time: about 1 hour $ Tickets Required ✓ Open All Year (limited access in winter)
In my opinion, the Cave of the Winds is the best attraction in all of Niagara Falls and worth crossing to the U.S. to experience. Try to go early, as tickets can only be purchased on-site and it can be very busy here in peak months.
Cave of the Winds is a self-paced walk along wooden boardwalks and observation decks that bring you right to the base of Bridal Veil Falls. You’ll get so close to the Falls that it feels like you’re underneath them!
Free ponchos are provided, which you’ll definitely need to stay (somewhat) dry.
If crossing to the U.S. isn’t in your plans, I’d recommend doing Journey Behind the Falls on the Canadian side instead. It’s also an incredible experience, but for me, Cave of the Winds is just a bit more thrilling.
LUNCH: Top of the Falls Restaurant
✓ Seasonal
For lunch on the U.S. side, I recommend the Top of the Falls Restaurant, located on Goat Island within Niagara Falls State Park. This spot offers incredible views of Terrapin Point and the Canadian Falls, making it a perfect mid-day break from sightseeing.
When I visited, we enjoyed our meal on the patio, overlooking the Falls—it was such a relaxing experience. The restaurant is open seasonally, so if you’re visiting in winter, you’ll need to make other lunch plans. Otherwise, it’s a great stop with a breathtaking view.
Stop 4: Walk Through New York Niagara Falls State Park
⏰ Time: about 1 hour $1.80 for the Obesrvation Tower ✓ Open All Year
After lunch, take some time to stroll through Niagara Falls State Park and soak in the natural beauty. The park offers excellent views of the American Falls from above and a chance to walk along the Niagara River rapids.
You can also head out onto Observation Tower, which extends out over the Niagara Gorge. The elevator and deck are open to all visitors for the low cost of $1.80. It’s the perfect way to enjoy panoramic views of the Falls from this high perspective.
Alternative Options for Staying on the Canadian Side
If you choose not to travel the the US side of Niagara Falls, here are a couple of alternative options for your itinerary.
Alternative: Journey Behind the Falls
⏰ Time: about 1 hour $ Buy Tickets Now ✓ Open All Year (limited access in winter)
Descend 38 meters to explore tunnels leading to a viewing portal and two observation decks for incredible up-close views of the Horseshoe Falls. Journey Behind the Falls is an exciting attraction on the Canadian side of the Falls.
Alternative: Niagara Power Station
⏰ Time: about 1 hour $ Buy Your Tickets Now ✓ Open All Year
I recommend going to the power station later in the evening to see the Falls at night, however, it’s equally as impressive during the day. No matter when you choose to visit, this should be included in your Niagara Falls itinerary.
Alternative Lunch: Table Rock Restaurant
Enjoy a meal with stunning Horseshoe Falls views at this conveniently located restaurant, perfect for a relaxing midday break.
Stop 5: Dinner at the Skylon Tower
End your day with dinner at the Skylon Tower, 236 meters above the Falls. Take the iconic glass-enclosed elevator to the indoor and outdoor observation deck for breathtaking views of the region.
Dine in the Revolving Dining Room, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the Falls Illumination and fireworks from above.
✓ Buy Tickets to the Skylon Tower Now
Stop 6: Visit Clifton Hill
⏰ Time: about 1 hour $ Tickets Required for Attractions ✓ Open All Year
Finish the evening with a visit to Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls’ lively entertainment district. Often compared to Las Vegas or Times Square, it’s touristy but undeniably fun.
This vibrant area is packed with arcades, mini-golf, and quirky museums, making it especially popular with kids and teens. The energy here is contagious, and it’s a great way to add some lighthearted entertainment to your trip.
Whether you’re indulging in games or simply exploring, Clifton Hill is a fun stop for the whole family.
Stop 7: Visit the Niagara Power Station at Night
⏰ Time: about 1 hour $ Buy Tickets Now ✓ Open All Year
For a magical nighttime experience, head to the Niagara Parks Power Station. This historic hydroelectric plant, reopened as a tourist attraction in 2021. The highlight is a 2,200-foot-long tunnel located 180 feet underground. At the end of the tunnel is an outdoor observation deck at the river’s edge.
Visiting at night is especially stunning, with illuminated views of the Horseshoe Falls and a chance to see the fireworks. The power station is open for evening visits from 7 PM to 10 PM, making it a perfect way to end your day in Niagara Falls.
✓ Buy Tickets to the Niagara Power Station at Night Now
Niagara Falls Itinerary: Day 3
Day 3 takes you beyond the main Fallsview area, exploring the scenic Niagara Parkway, the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, and local wineries.
Stop 1: Drive Along the Niagara River Parkway
⏰ Time: about 45 minutes $ Free ✓ Open All Year
Start your final day with a scenic drive (or shuttle ride) along the Niagara River Parkway. This route is beautiful, with plenty of viewpoints to stop and admire the river from above.
Be sure to visit the Living Water Wayside Chapel, the world’s smallest chapel. If you are driving, watch out for local farmer’s markets along the way. Here you’ll find fresh produce, local fresh fruit (peaches are a must-try in season), homemade jams, maple syrup and so much more!
Stop 2: Stop by the Floral Clock
⏰ Time: about 15 minutes $ Free ✓ Open All Year
Make a quick stop at the Floral Clock, one of Niagara Parks’ most photographed attractions. This giant clock is filled with up to 16,000 flowers, and its floral design changes twice a year.
Visiting the Floral Clock has been a tradition since 1950, and it’s a charming addition to your itinerary. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo as you continue along the Niagara River Parkway.
Stop 3: Visit Niagara-on-the-Lake
⏰ Time: about 1.5 hours $ Free (carriage rides require tickets) ✓ Open All Year
Just 30 minutes from Niagara Falls, the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is a must-visit. It’s one of my favourite places in Ontario, with its historic charm and relaxed vibe.
Stroll down the main street, lined with quaint shops, galleries, gift stores, cafes, and restaurants.
For a truly memorable experience, take a horse-drawn carriage tour near the Prince of Wales Hotel. The tour guides you through the Historic District, along the waterfront, and down Old Town’s main street while sharing fascinating stories about the area’s history.
LUNCH: Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake has fantastic dining options to suit any mood. Here are some of my favourites:
- The Old Angel Inn: An authentic British pub over 230 years old, with a cozy beer garden. It’s pet- and family-friendly.
- Irish Harp Pub: A laid-back spot with great food at reasonable prices.
- Treadwell Cuisine: For something upscale, try their Lobster Club—it’s a must for lunch.
- Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club: The only restaurant with a patio right on the water, perfect for a relaxing meal with a view.
No matter where you choose, lunch in this charming town is always a treat!
Stop 4: Go on the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours
⏰ Time: about 1.5 hours $ Buy Tickets Now ✓Seasonal
If you’re up for some adventure, I highly recommend the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours on your way back from Niagara-on-the-Lake. If you are on the WEGO shuttle, the tour company provides transportation to the tours from the Floral Clock stop.
This 45-minute ride takes you deep into the Niagara Gorge, navigating the powerful Devil’s Hole Rapids.
You’ll get soaked on the boat, but that’s half the fun! If you prefer to stay dry, the Freedom Jet Boat is a great option, although it runs at limited times, so you’ll want to check the schedule. This is a popular activity, so I do recommend purchasing your tickets early.
While it doesn’t go to the Falls, it’s an exciting way to explore the rapids and the gorge.
✓ Buy Tickets to the Jet Boat Tours Now
Alternative: If you don’t want to go on the Jet Boat Tour and you are looking for something more relaxed, I recommend visiting several of Niagara’s excellent wineries.
You don’t have to be a wine drinker to enjoy these incredible venues. They have gift shops, tasting menus, patios, tours, and even mocktails. It is a great way to spend an afternoon!
Stop 5: Butterfly Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
⏰ Time: about 1 hour $ Buy Tickets Now for the Butterfly Conservatory ✓Open All Year
The Butterfly Conservatory is a magical, family-friendly stop featuring over 2,000 butterflies fluttering freely along winding pathways.
It’s a self-guided experience and fairly small, so you’ll only need about an hour. I find it especially enjoyable on a rainy day. It’s a perfect indoor activity for families or those with young kids.
✓ Buy Tickets Now for the Butterfly Conservatory
Afterward, take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens, covering 99 acres of award-winning landscapes with colourful seasonal blooms. Admission to the gardens is free, and spring is my favorite time to visit, especially when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
If you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss the rose garden, home to over 2,400 roses. It’s a really peaceful and picturesque break from the crowds and tourists.
DINNER: Niagara Winery
End your day with dinner at one of Niagara’s incredible wineries. My husband and I recently had a great experience at Peller Estates, dining on the patio overlooking the vineyard. Their lobster pasta was excellent, and the view at sunset was stunning.
Another great option is the Whiskey Bar at Wayne Gretzky’s Winery, which offers good food and a relaxed atmosphere. Be sure to make a reservation, as winery restaurants can fill up quickly, especially in summer.
Food at the wineries are much better quality and value than the options around Clifton Hill. I highly recommend visiting at least one winery during your Niagara Falls vacation.
If you are not driving, you may want to take an Uber back to your hotel in Niagara Falls.
Getting Around Niagara Falls
Walking
The main Fallsview tourist area is easy to explore on foot. The distance from the Welcome Centre to Clifton Hill is about 2 km one way. If you’re driving, plan to park in a lot and walk to the Falls, as metered parking spots along the Niagara River Parkway are very limited in this area.
Taking the WEGO Bus
To reach activities like the Floral Clock, White Water Walk, Aero Car, or Niagara-on-the-Lake, you’ll need to drive, bike, or take the WEGO Bus. This visitor-friendly bus system connects all major attractions with multiple routes.
A 24-hour or 48-hour pass makes it easy to hop on and off, and it’s a great option if you’re staying for two or more days. You can purchase passes online or at the Welcome Centre.
Incline Railway
The Incline Railway, located behind the Welcome Centre, offers a quick and convenient way to travel between the Horseshoe Falls and the Fallsview tourist area. It’s particularly useful if you’re staying at one of the Fallsview hotels and want an easy way to get up and down the hill.
Where to Stay in Niagara Falls, Canada
Choosing where to stay in Niagara Falls is an important decision. My two picks are the Sheraton Fallsview or the Holiday Inn Express in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Sheraton Fallsview Hotel
We’ve stayed at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel several times, especially when our kids were younger, and it remains a favourite. The hotel’s location is unbeatable—right across the street from the Falls and next to Clifton Hill.
This makes it perfect for enjoying the fireworks, Niagara City Cruises, and stunning views of all three Falls. The Juliet Balconies are a unique feature of this hotel, offering breathtaking views right from your room.
✓ Book Your Stay at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel Now
Holiday Inn Express – Niagara-on-the-Lake
As a local, this is our current choice of hotel when we visit Niagara Falls. The Holiday Inn Express is a more budget-friendly option located just off the 401 highway in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
It’s a new hotel with free breakfast, free parking, and reasonable rates. It’s a great choice if you have a car. While it’s further from the main attractions, it’s less touristy and provides a quieter stay with easy access to the wineries and the Niagara Parkway.
✓ Book Your Stay at the Holiday Inn Express Now
Travelling from Toronto for a Weekend in Niagara Falls
Getting to Niagara Falls from Toronto is quick and easy—it’s less than two hours by car if traffic cooperates. I’ve done this trip many times, and it’s a great option if you’re visiting Toronto and want to add a couple of days to explore the Falls.
You can drive, take the train, or the bus. Driving is the most flexible, but I’ve taken the GO train before, and it’s a great way to travel too.
If you’re not driving, plan ahead to make sure you get the best schedule for your weekend plans. It’s one of the easiest day trips or weekend getaways from Toronto!
What About Visiting Niagara Falls in the Winter?
Visiting Niagara Falls in the winter offers a completely different experience, but it does come with colder temperatures, so bundling up is essential. The icy weather can make spending time outdoors more challenging, but it also brings fewer crowds and stunning frozen landscapes.
While some attractions are closed for the season, the Winter Festival of Lights is a highlight, lighting up the area with festive displays.
Indoor activities like the Skylon Tower, Butterfly Conservatory or Niagara Parks Power Station are great options to stay warm while still exploring. A winter trip isn’t something to skip—it just requires a bit of extra planning and warm clothes!
3 Day Niagara Falls Itinerary
Three days is the perfect amount of time to fully enjoy Niagara Falls. While many opt for a quick day trip from Toronto, spending three days allows you to see the Falls at a relaxed pace, explore the surrounding Niagara Region, and even visiting the American side for a different perspective.
With so many activities, you can easily fill your days. Beyond the main Fallsview tourist area, there’s plenty to discover, from scenic drives along the Niagara Parkway to charming historic sites and wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Three days gives you the chance to experience the natural beauty, adventure, and local charm that make Niagara Falls so special.
Before You Go: More Niagara Falls Information
As you plan your Niagara Falls vacation here are some additional articles that may help with you process.
