How to Enjoy Niagara Falls 100 Times More｜Where Do You Gaze From?

Known as one of North America’s premier natural wonders, Niagara Falls attracts 14 million visitors each year. Straddling the border between New York State in the United States and Ontario in Canada, it is counted among the “world’s three great waterfalls” alongside Iguazu Falls in South America and Victoria Falls in Africa. Accessible from both the American and Canadian sides, it is perfect for a day trip. In particular, the Canadian side has transformed the entire city of Niagara Falls into a tourist destination, complete with hotels, restaurants, and leisure facilities. In this article, we introduce ways to enjoy Niagara Falls from the Canadian side and share useful tourist information.

1. What is Niagara Falls?

Considered one of the world’s three great waterfalls, Niagara Falls is the largest waterfall in the Americas. It is located on the Niagara River, which flows along the border between the United States and Canada, and is composed of three distinct falls—the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls (adjacent to the American Falls), and the Canadian Falls (also known as Horseshoe Falls)—as well as several smaller islands including Goat Island and Luna Island.

On the American side, the American Falls boast a width of 330 meters and a drop of 58 meters, and together with the adjacent 15-meter-wide Bridal Veil Falls, they form the Niagara Falls State Park. On the Canadian side, the falls are even larger, with a width of a staggering 675 meters. The name “Horseshoe Falls” derives from their shape, which resembles a horseshoe.

Discovered in the early 17th century, Niagara Falls had already become a tourist destination by the 18th century, and it soon developed into a major industry for the region. In 1846, the sightseeing boat “Maid of the Mist”—now a famous symbol of Niagara tourism—began operating. Since then, numerous attractions have been created to help visitors fully experience the majesty of Niagara Falls.

2. The Spectacular “Table Rock” on the Canadian Side

Table Rock is an observation deck set atop a rock formation that juts out like a table. From this spot, you can view the Canadian Falls right from the side. Always bustling with tourists, this is a spectacular location to admire the falls up close. Although the viewing deck is securely fenced, the sheer force and roar of the cascading water can be overwhelming, sometimes even creating the illusion that you might be pulled in. Depending on the wind direction, you may get soaked, so be extra careful with your camera equipment.

At Table Rock, you’ll also find the Table Rock Welcome Centre, a tourist information center that houses a restaurant and shop. Free maps and guidebooks are available here, making it a great place to stop by before heading out. It is also the ticket office for the attraction “Journey Behind the Falls.”

3. Get Soaked at the “Get Wet” Viewing Point

While it’s wonderful to view the falls from the front or from the side, why not try a unique experience that can only be had here? “Journey Behind the Falls” is an attraction that allows you to view Niagara Falls from behind.

Originating in 1832—almost 200 years ago—this experience begins with a dedicated elevator at the Table Rock Welcome Centre that descends 40 meters. You then walk through a tunnel to reach the back of the falls. Despite the water plunging at a speed of 65 km/h, the view from the large opening in the rock seems almost in slow motion due to its sheer force. In the summer, you can also step out onto an external deck.

4. Get Closer with “Hornblower Niagara Cruises”

Currently, there are two cruise ships operating at Niagara Falls. In the past, the American sightseeing boat “Maid of the Mist” departed from both the American and Canadian sides, but Canadian operations ceased in 2013. In 2014, the Canadian sightseeing boat “Hornblower” was launched, delighting countless visitors ever since.

Capable of carrying up to 700 passengers, Hornblower offers an open-deck area for a panoramic view of Niagara Falls, as well as a covered area so you can watch the falls without getting wet. The vessel also includes shops and restrooms, and it provides audio guides in eight languages, ensuring a comfortable ride even if you’re not fluent in English.

Hornblower also operates a “Falls Illumination Cruise” that takes you around the illuminated falls at night. Operating hours vary by season, so check the official website for details. Tickets for Hornblower can be booked for specific dates and times.

5. For a Panoramic View, Try Skylon Tower

If you want to view the falls from an even higher vantage point, Skylon Tower is highly recommended. Ride the high-speed elevator “Yellow Bug,” which is entirely made of glass, and reach the observation deck in just 50 seconds. Located 160 meters above ground, the deck provides 360-degree views where you can watch approximately 2 million liters of water cascade every second from every direction.

Within the tower, aside from the observation deck, there is a 360-degree revolving restaurant called the Revolving Dining Room, as well as a game center, cinema, and various shops—ensuring you can leisurely explore the attractions. However, during events like fireworks festivals, the tower can become very crowded, so plan accordingly.

6. Walk to the American Side

Spanning the lower Niagara River is the Rainbow Bridge, which connects Canada and the United States. It takes about 45 minutes to walk from Table Rock on the Canadian side to Niagara Falls State Park on the American side. With the international border situated roughly at the midpoint of the bridge, this spot offers a unique vantage point from which you can see both the American Falls and the Canadian Falls. Note that there are immigration procedures on the Canadian side just before the bridge, so be sure to bring your passport.

7. What is the Best Time to Visit?

The best season to experience Niagara Falls is during the summer, from June through August. Not only is the weather pleasant for viewing the falls, but the water volume is at its peak during these months, creating an incredibly powerful spectacle. In the period from spring to early summer, the water flow exceeds 570 liters per second—a figure that is twice as high as in summer and four times that of winter—truly a sight to behold.

8. Information on Easily-Joinable Tours

In New York and Toronto, day tours to Niagara Falls are popular. These tours typically cover most of the attractions mentioned above and include a Japanese-speaking guide, bus transfers, and meals, making for a comprehensive experience. If you’re uneasy about traveling alone, these tours are highly recommended.

For those who wish to explore Niagara Falls at a more leisurely pace, overnight tours with hotel accommodations are also available. These packages not only cover the classic spots but also include visits to Niagara on the Lake and local wineries—an excellent option if you want to savor Canadian ice wine as well.

◎ Finally: The American Side is Also Worth Visiting

Although Niagara Falls is a classic North American tourist attraction, there are many ways to enjoy it. The attractions introduced here are all on the Canadian side, but the American side also offers spectacular viewing spots. If you have the time, why not experience the falls from both sides? Niagara Falls is an adventure that lets you experience the majesty of a massive waterfall in a way that you can truly feel with all your senses. Once you visit, you’ll be captivated by its charm!