NYC LOCATIONS DEPT.

Niagara Falls Family-Friendly Adventures

1. Aquarium of Niagara

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: The Aquarium of Niagara is perfect for families with children, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs. Kids can learn about marine life through touch tanks, daily shows, and animal encounters.
  • Activities: Kids can enjoy shows featuring sea lions, touch tanks where they can interact with marine creatures, and educational programs that teach them about ocean conservation and marine ecosystems.
  • Tip: Don’t miss the Penguin Coast exhibit, where kids can get up close to adorable penguins! Website: Aquarium of Niagara

2. Niagara Falls Adventure Theater

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: The Adventure Theater provides an immersive film experience about the history of Niagara Falls, with thrilling stories of daring explorers and adventurers. It’s perfect for kids who love adventure and history.
  • Activities: Enjoy a 45-minute movie that captures the magic and power of Niagara Falls through stunning visuals and storytelling.
  • Tip: Pair this with a Maid of the Mist boat tour for a full Niagara Falls experience.

Website: Niagara Adventure Theater

3. Cave of the Winds

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: Cave of the Winds is an exhilarating, close-up experience of Niagara Falls, ideal for families with adventurous kids. The wooden walkways take visitors to the base of Bridal Veil Falls, where they can feel the mist of the falls.
  • Activities: Walk along wooden platforms that bring you inches from the roaring waterfalls. Families are provided with ponchos and sandals to stay (somewhat) dry during this thrilling adventure.
  • Tip: Visit at night for a spectacular view of the Niagara Falls Illumination. Website: Cave of The Winds

4. Niagara SkyWheel

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: The Niagara SkyWheel is Canada’s largest observation wheel, offering panoramic views of the falls and surrounding area. Kids will love the gentle ride and the breathtaking views from the enclosed gondolas.
  • Activities: Take a 10-12 minute ride in climate-controlled gondolas, offering views of the falls, Clifton Hill, and the city.
  • Tip: Ride it at night to see the falls lit up in different colors.
  • Website: Niagara SkyWheel (Canada)

5. Bird Kingdom

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: Bird Kingdom is the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary, and it’s a magical experience for kids who love animals. Families can walk through tropical environments, spot colorful birds, and learn about wildlife.
  • Activities: Families can explore different aviaries with hundreds of species of birds, along with reptiles and small mammals. There’s even a nocturnal room where kids can see owls and bats.
  • Tip: Don’t miss the Lorikeet Landing, where kids can feed these beautiful birds from their hands. Website: Bird Kingdom (Canada)

6. Whirlpool Aero Car

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: Take an exciting Whirlpool Aero Car ride over the Niagara Gorge. Kids will love this aerial cable car adventure, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the Niagara Whirlpool and the powerful rapids below.
  • Activities: Enjoy a thrilling ride over the gorge in an antique cable car that spans nearly 3,500 feet across the river.
  • Tip: This ride is a must for adventurous families and a great way to appreciate the natural beauty of Niagara. Website: Whirlpool Aero Car

7. Clifton Hill

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: Clifton Hill is an entertainment-packed street with arcades, mini-golf, wax museums, and kid-friendly restaurants. It’s a perfect stop for families after visiting the falls.
  • Activities: Families can enjoy Dinosaur Adventure Golf, the Movieland Wax Museum, and arcade games at The Great Canadian Midway.
  • Tip: End your day with a family-friendly meal at one of the themed restaurants like the Rainforest Café or Boston Pizza. Website: Clifton Hill (Canada)

8. Niagara Glen Nature Reserve

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: This is a perfect spot for families who enjoy nature. The Niagara Glen Nature Reserve offers easy hiking trails, bouldering, and scenic views of the Niagara River, perfect for a family outdoor adventure.
  • Activities: Take a walk along the Great Gorge Trail, which offers easy paths for kids while showcasing the natural beauty of the gorge. Pack a picnic and enjoy the views!
  • Tip: Keep an eye out for wildlife like birds, squirrels, and even deer along the trails. Website: Niagara Glen Nature Reserve

9. Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is one of the largest indoor water parks in North America. It’s perfect for families with younger kids or teens looking for a fun, splash-filled day, regardless of the weather.
  • Activities: Enjoy water slides, wave pools, and a splash park. There are areas specifically designed for toddlers, so it’s a safe and exciting experience for all ages.
  • Tip: Check for day passes if you’re not staying at a partnered hotel. Website: Fallsview Indoor Waterpark

10. Old Fort Niagara

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: Old Fort Niagara offers an educational yet fun experience where families can step back in time to explore the history of the region. Kids can watch reenactments and demonstrations of historic weapons and explore the fort’s many rooms.
  • Activities: Enjoy tours of the fort, interactive displays, and musket demonstrations. Kids can learn about the fort’s role during the American Revolution and other historical periods.
  • Tip: Visit during a reenactment event for an even more engaging experience. Website: Old Fort Niagara

11. White Water Walk

  • Why it’s Family-Friendly: The White Water Walk offers a safe, easy-to-navigate boardwalk along the Niagara River’s Class 6 rapids, which is perfect for families looking to experience the power of the river up close without a strenuous hike.
  • Activities: Walk along the boardwalk while learning about the river’s rapids through educational displays. It’s great for all ages, especially if you have younger children who want to experience nature.
  • Tip: Bring a camera to capture the impressive views of the rapids. Website: White Water Walk (Canada)

Bonus Family-Friendly Tips:

Horse & Carriage Ride: Families can enjoy a leisurely carriage ride along the park’s scenic paths, offering beautiful views of the falls and surrounding greenery..

Top 10 Best Horseback Riding Near Niagara Falls, New York – With Real Reviews

Niagara Falls State Park (USA Side): The park offers free entry and plenty of family-friendly areas to explore, including easy walking paths and picnic areas.

Website: Niagara Falls State Park