How to Plan a Solo Trip to Niagara Falls (Canada Edition)
Think Niagara Falls is just for honeymooners and family vacations? Think again. I frequently take solo trips to Niagara Falls, I can tell you firsthand it’s one of the best destinations for solo travelers in Canada.
Whether you’re craving a little adventure, some peaceful time with nature, or finally ready to cross this iconic destination off your bucket list, Niagara Falls delivers year-round.
Picture misty mornings with a coffee in hand, thrilling boat rides that soak you to the bone, and peaceful trails just minutes from the falls.
And if it’s your first time visiting Niagara Falls solo, you’re in for something special. From cozy, solo-friendly places to stay to the best solo attractions, this guide covers everything you need to plan a trip that’s truly unforgettable.
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Why Niagara Falls Is a Dream Destination for Solo Travellers
I’ve visited Niagara Falls solo more times than I can count-so many, in fact, that I bought the annual pass to all the major attractions.
Whether I’m catching a rainbow over the falls or enjoying the different seasons, I never get bored here. Here’s why I keep coming back and why you should make this your next solo adventure:
1. You Can Explore at Your Own Pace
One of the best parts of solo travel is setting your own schedule-and Niagara Falls makes that easy. From early morning strolls to views of the illuminated falls at night, you can take your time soaking it all in.
Personally, I love wandering with my camera in hand, taking photos from every angle without worrying about anyone else. I also like visiting the most popular attractions early so I can avoid the lines, and then wandering through the parks and gardens later in the day as the crowds arrive.
2. Niagara Falls is Safe and Easy to Navigate
Stick to the main tourist areas, and you’ll find the Falls are very solo-friendly. The area is walkable, and always buzzing with people, even in the evenings.
I do find some areas of Niagara Falls to feel less safe than others. Do not explore off the beaten path and stick to the main roads and you’ll be safe.
You can walk to most attractions or hop on the WEGO bus that runs regularly throughout the main tourist areas. You can even take it out to Niagara-on-the-Lake for a peaceful solo wine tour or visiting the historic downtown area.
3. So Many Solo-Friendly Activities
Niagara Falls has a great mix of experiences for solo travelers. Whether you’re into scenic walks, adrenaline-filled boat rides, or peaceful butterfly gardens, there’s something for every mood.
Most activities are easy to do alone – I’ve done them all solo and never once felt out of place. In fact, going solo means you can often avoid lines, explore at your own pace, and enjoy the attractions more freely.
4. It’s Less Than 2 Hours from Toronto
Niagara Falls is an easy day trip or weekend getaway from Toronto. You can drive, take the GO Train, or take a bus. While I usually drive, I’ve found the GoTrain to be very convenient, especially in the summer.
Toronto is also an ideal solo travel destination, so extending your trip to include Niagara Falls is an excellent option. Spend some time in Canada’s largest city, followed by a few days in the Niagara region.
5. Easy Access to the American Side of the Falls
Want to add another country to your solo adventure? Just bring your passport and $1 CAN and you can walk across the Rainbow Bridge into the U.S.
From there, you’ll be able to explore Niagara Falls State Park and my personal favourite attraction: Cave of the Winds.
Standing on the Hurricane Deck with the mist pounding around you is the kind of experience you’ll never forget! Exploring Niagara Falls from two different countries will allow you to experience the falls from two completely different perspectives.
6. There are Lots of Guided Tours
Sometimes travelling on your own can be a little lonely or intimidating. The great thing about Niagara Falls is that there are lots of awesome guided tours to purchase. Great for making friends or seeing the main highlights these tours are an ideal for first-time visitors to Niagara Falls.
Whether you are looking for a tour from Toronto, to join a walking tour, or visit some of Ontario’s best wineries, there are lots of awesome tour options to choose from.
Here are the top three tours that I feel are perfect for a solo travellers in Niagara.
Top Tours for Solo Visitors to Niagara Falls
✓ Full Day Trip from Toronto: Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and Winery Visit – includes pick-up from Toronto hotels
✓ Half Day Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Tour – includes pick-up from Niagara hotels
✓ Niagara Falls in 1 Day: Tour of American AND Canadian Sides – includes pick-up in Niagara, Canada
Top Things to Do on a Solo Trip to Niagara Falls
Whether you’re after thrilling experiences or peaceful views, there’s no shortage of things to do solo in Niagara Falls. Here are some of my favorites that I’ve done (sometimes more than once!):
Catch the Sunrise Over the Falls
Go early for a magical view and to avoid the crowds. Grab a coffee and watch the sun come up over the falls! It’s one of the most beautiful views.
Journey Behind the Falls
It’s loud, a little misty, and honestly, kind of humbling to stand so close to the power of the Horseshoe Falls. I suggest going here first as the tunnels are small and you’ll avoid the long lines.
☞ Want a solo moment that gives you goosebumps? Stand behind the roar of Horseshoe Falls and feel the thunder with a Journey Behind the Falls ticket.
Take a Boat Cruise to the Base of the Falls
Yes, you’ll get wet. Yes, it’s touristy. And yes – it’s 100% worth it. I do this every year and never tire of the experience.
Ride the Whirlpool Aero Car
I loved this antique cable car ride over the Niagara Gorge so much I went across twice! This short 15 minute ride is an easy addition to your Niagara solo itinerary.
Stroll the White Water Walk
A peaceful boardwalk alongside Class 6 rapids. The platforms will bring you right beside the rapids and it’s an impressive view of the power of the Niagara River.
Take a Jet Boat Tour
Looking for something a little more adventurous? Take this speedboat tour along the Niagara River and to the rapids. I got completely drenched on this ride, so be sure to bring a change of clothes for this experience.
☞ Ready to crank up the adrenaline on your solo adventure? Book your Jet Boat Tour ticket and blast through Niagara’s wildest rapids for an unbelievable experience.
Go Up the Skylon Tower
The building is a bit retro, but the panoramic views are worth the trip to the top.
☞ Want panoramic peace above the chaos? Ride solo up the Skylon Tower and observe Niagara’s beauty from 775 feet in the sky. Avoid the lines and book your tickets now.
Zipline to the Falls
This was such a fun way to see the falls from a different angle. Go early to beat the lines. Be sure to have your photo taken at the bottom for an awesome picture in front of the falls.
☞ Craving a bold solo memory? Zipline across the gorge and land right in front of the Falls – just you, the wind, and the view.
Visit the Cave of the Winds on the U.S. Side
Bring your passport to walk across the Rainbow Bridge. It’s a short walk to the Cave of the Winds which I believe is the most exhilarating experience on either side of the falls. It’s also awesome to see the falls from a different perspective.
☞ Curious about this attraction? Read my full guide to the Cave of the Winds to learn more.
Visit the Niagara Power Station at Night
This is an underrated gem, especially after dark. You’ll see the Falls illuminated and enjoy a unique, safe indoor experience.
☞ Prefer solo serenity over tourist traps? Explore the Niagara Power Station after dark – fewer crowds, stunning lights, and pure vibes.
Explore the Niagara Parks and Gardens
There are a number of free and paid parks and gardens worth visiting. The Floral Showcase has alternating floral displays all year. I travel to Niagara in winter just to see the incredible Poinsettia Show at the showcase. In spring, Magnolia Alley is right outside and perfect for those stunning Instagram photos!
The Botanical Gardens, located beside the Butterfly Conservatory, are free and peaceful. I often come here to have a break from the tourists and enjoy an ice cream at the Garden Cafe.
Take a Detour to Niagara-on-the-Lake
Just 25 minutes from Niagara Falls, a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake is worth the trip. Take the WEGO shuttle and spend some time exploring this charming historical town. Enjoy a great meal, shop the boutique stores, or take a walking tour.
☞ Planning your Niagara solo trip itinerary? Check out my detailed guide to the best Niagara Falls attractions with tips for avoiding crowds and saving money.
How to Get Around Niagara Falls Solo
Getting around is simple:
- On Foot: The main Fallsview area is walkable.
- WEGO Bus: This shuttle system connects you to all the key attractions and even to Niagara-on-the-Lake.
- Driving: If you’re coming from Toronto, driving is easy and gives you more flexibility to explore. However, parking in the area can be expensive, especially if you are staying overnight.
✓ Tip: Get your WEGO tickets at the Welcome Centre when you arrive. Riding the bus is convenient, affordable and easy to do.
Where to Stay as a Solo Traveler
When traveling solo, I always prioritize safety, convenience, and cost. These are two places I personally recommend from experience:
Marriott on the Falls
☞ Want convenience, comfort, and floor-to-ceiling views in one place? The Marriott on the Falls checks all the boxes for a safe, scenic solo escape.
I’ve stayed at Marriott on the Falls multiple times. It’s right by the Incline Railway that takes you directly to the Welcome Centre and main attractions. It also has unobstructed views of Niagara Falls from the floor-to-ceiling windows.
There’s nothing like waking up to a sunrise over Horseshoe Falls in one of the Fallsview rooms. Fallsview hotels are a bit of a splurge, but worth it for those magnificent views.
Serene Niagara Inn B&B
☞ Looking for comfort and safety without blowing your budget? This charming B&B is a solo-friendly hidden gem.
Serene Niagara Inn is a cozy, family-run B&B that’s ideal for solo travellers. It’s walking distance to attractions, includes a delicious home-cooked breakfast, and has free parking (which is rare in Niagara).
I stayed here on my last visit to the falls, and while the room was small, it had everything I needed as a solo visitor. Plus, the cost was quite reasonable.
The home-cooked breakfast (included) was delicious and the free parking was a big value-added. I would definitely stay here again if visiting on my own. There are only a few rooms at the Serene Inn, so book early if you want to stay here!
☞ Want more options? Here’s my full list of the best hotels in Niagara Falls with a view!
Where to Eat as a Solo Traveler
Niagara Falls has plenty of casual spots where you won’t feel out of place eating alone. My go-tos include:
- Table Rock House Restaurant – Best views while you eat and conveniently located at the brink of the falls.
- Queen Victoria Place Restaurant – Great for people-watching and solo patio dining in the summer overlooking the falls.
- Taco N Tequila – A fun, lively place with an outdoor patio. Ideal for a casual meal and a Margarita.
Pro tip: Grab a coffee and pastry from the Table Rock Welcome Centre and head to the Falls for a morning walk as the sun comes up.
You Deserve a Solo Adventure to Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls isn’t just bucket-list worthy – it’s solo traveler friendly, safe, scenic, and full of things to do at your own pace.
Whether you’re an international tourist visiting Canada for the first time, or a local looking for a weekend escape in Ontario, Niagara Falls is a great option.
Come for the views, the parks and gardens, or the outdoor thrills and adventures. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a weekend packed with adventure, you’ll find it here.
Ready to Plan Your Niagara Falls Solo Trip?
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