Summary
Dave and I have been escaping the hustle and bustle of Toronto to Niagara Falls every year since 1996. While many people spend their time enjoying the views of Niagara Falls, riding the Hornblower, or taking a Journey Behind the Falls, Clifton Hill stands out as the Street of Fun in Niagara Falls. Clifton Hill is a lively tourist destination filled with wax museums, midway rides, and restaurants. To maximize your experience at the Clifton Hill attractions, purchasing the Clifton Hill Pass can be a smart choice. Today, we will explore what is included with the Clifton Hill Pass and determine if it suits you and your family.
What is Clifton Hill?
It took us years to fully explore Clifton Hill. Whether you’re visiting with energetic kids, a group of close friends, or simply seeking some quality time with a partner, Clifton Hill is filled with fun activities. To get started, let’s dive into the attractions included in the Clifton Hill Pass. Here’s our comprehensive look into the Clifton Hill Pass, detailing what you can expect.
What is Included in the Clifton Hill Fun Pass?
The Clifton Hill Fun Pass costs $34.95 Canadian plus 13% tax. This pass provides access to 6 attractions including the Niagara Skywheel, Zombie Attack, Cosmic Coaster, Movieland Wax Museum, and your choice of either indoor glow-in-the-dark Wizard Golf or outdoor Wizard Golf.
Purchasing each attraction separately would total $71.70 plus tax, saving you $30 overall.
Is the Clifton Hill FunPass Worth It?
However, are these attractions truly worth it? We experienced them first-hand to help you decide whether investing in the attraction pass or paying for individual attractions on Clifton Hill is more appropriate for you. Let’s examine each attraction and the savings you gain with the Fun Pass.
Detailed Attraction Reviews
1. Niagara Skywheel
The Niagara Skywheel is a magnificent 175-foot-tall Ferris wheel featuring climate-controlled gondolas. In summer, you can remain cool and comfortable, while in winter, you’ll be warm and dry. Each ride lasts about 8 – 12 minutes, allowing you ample opportunity to capture stunning views of the falls. During our trip around the Skywheel, we enjoyed about 4 revolutions, which made it a fabulous experience.
This attraction offers a unique panoramic view of both the American Falls and Horseshoe Falls, along with spectacular cityscapes. If you’re not staying at a hotel with falls views, this ride is one of the best ways to appreciate them from above.
The most popular time to ride the Niagara Skywheel is at sunset, but we recommend visiting at 10 a.m. when it opens to avoid crowds. For a scenic sunset, there are better viewpoints in Niagara Falls.
Visiting at night is also wonderful, as the crowds are smaller and the falls are illuminated beautifully. The Niagara Skywheel remains open until 2 a.m., making it perfect for a late-night view.
- Individual tickets for the Niagara Skywheel are $17.50 per person, included in the Clifton Hill Fun Pass priced at $34.95 for adults.
2. Zombie Attack
This attraction has quickly become a favorite of ours! Picture a thrilling 6D multi-sensory experience where you confront zombies. We had a blast at Zombie Attack—surprisingly more fun than we anticipated. Upon entering the theater, you receive 3D glasses and get strapped in for an exhilarating ride.
Shooting zombies while competing for the best aim adds an adrenaline rush and camaraderie that make this attraction truly unforgettable. If immersive games excite you, this is a must-try!
- The individual ticket price for Zombie Attack is $9.99 plus tax.
3. Cosmic Coaster – Ride The Movie
Initially, Cosmic Coaster seemed the tamest option when we purchased our Clifton Hill Fun Pass. However, this immersive 4D theater experience turned out to be incredible. With 3D glasses on, we held on tightly as we zoomed through a roller coaster of cinematic adventures.
The ride features thrilling twists and turns, creating a delightful blend of a traditional coaster experience with a unique galactic theme. The neon lights, excitement, and laughter of riders bring out the child-like joy in everyone.
- The individual ticket price for Cosmic Coaster is $6.99.
4. Movieland Wax Museum
Step into the world of film at the Movieland Wax Museum. With displays of A-list celebrities and iconic movie scenes, we enjoyed wandering through the museum. However, without the pass, we may have skipped this attraction.
While the Movieland Wax Museum is interesting, it was our least favorite experience. The wax figures felt outdated, and some did not resemble the stars at all, as certain figures were even missing limbs during our visit.
Fortunately, they have introduced a superhero section featuring Marvel and DC characters, which added more appeal. The interactive aspects, where we posed with famous personalities, helped enhance our experience.
- The individual ticket price for Movieland Wax Museum is $12.99 plus tax.
5. Ghostblasters
Another surprising attraction, Ghostblasters is more than just a kid’s activity. Although it isn’t a thrill ride, it is fun to blast at ghosts while navigating through exciting glow-in-the-dark sets.
This interactive game allows you to shoot lasers at ghosts for points, providing an enjoyable experience for both adults and children alike.
- Individual tickets for Ghostblasters are priced at $4.99.
6. Dinosaur Golf or Wizard Golf
To conclude your experience at Clifton Hill, you can choose from two fun-filled golf options. We opted for the indoor Wizard Golf, which was fantastic. The wizard theme and glow-in-the-dark elements made it a visually stunning experience, perfect for sharing on social media.
You can also opt for outdoor Dinosaur Golf, featuring life-sized replicas and challenging courses. Either option guarantees fun!
- Wizard Golf costs $10.99 per person while Dinosaur Golf costs $11.99 per person.
In summary, for just $34.95 for adults and $22.95 for children, the Clifton Hill Pass provides excellent value. Since individually purchasing each attraction would amount to $64.45 or $65.45, the savings of $30 make it a smart investment.
Considering the variety and quality of attractions included, we confidently assert that it is well worth the price.
Things to do on Clifton Hill – Beyond the Clifton Hill Pass
If you plan to spend a few days in Niagara Falls, you’ll find additional activities on Clifton Hill. Being the Street of Fun, it offers numerous experiences to explore beyond the Clifton Hill Pass.
Nightmares Fear Factory
Located on Victoria Ave at the top of Clifton Hill, Nightmares Fear Factory is one of the scariest haunted houses around. Over 170,000 frightened visitors have left Nightmares midway through. This dark attraction lasts around 15 minutes, immersing you in complete darkness, which can be quite terrifying.
The entry fee for Nightmares is $15.94 per person.
Ripley’s Believe it or Not!
This museum showcases curiosities and oddities. From unusual sideshow characters to a two-headed calf, Ripley’s is renowned for its bizarre exhibitions. Founded by Robert Ripley, who was an explorer, journalist, and cartoonist, the museum celebrates the eccentric and unexplained.
Visitors can also check out Ripley’s Moving Theater, Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks, and Ripley’s Selfie Studio. The Selfie Studio boasts 23 immersive installations for those looking for the perfect Instagram shot.
While these attractions can be pricey, a combo ticket for $34 includes Ripley’s Believe it or Not, the Selfie Studio, and the Wax Museum—a great option if you plan on spending more than one day in Niagara Falls!
- Ripley’s Believe it or Not: $29.99
- Selfie Studio: $19.99
- Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks: $29.00
- Combo ticket for all 3: $34.99 (Saving nearly $50!)
House of Frankenstein
A fixture on Clifton Hill, the House of Frankenstein offers an interesting experience. It has been years since we’ve visited, and our memories are a bit vague. However, there is now a rooftop roller coaster. We have yet to ride that, and feedback hasn’t been great.
For the price, many reviews suggest skipping this attraction.
Big Top Amazing Mirror & Laser Maze
Our neighbors praised this attraction after taking their kids. It involves navigating a maze of mirrors and lasers, reminiscent of Catherine Zeta-Jones in Entanglement. Children will likely have a fantastic time with the laser maze!
Niagara Speedway
For go-karting enthusiasts, the Niagara Speedway is found at the top of Clifton Hill. North America’s largest elevated go-kart track is known for its ‘Mario-kart’ inspired racetrack. The cost for a driver is $13.00 for about a 5-minute race, with an additional passenger costing $4, which can be considered steep for such a brief ride.
Great Canadian Midway
This 70,000-square-foot entertainment venue features classic arcade games and modern interactive experiences. There are over 300 games suitable for all ages, from skee-ball and air hockey to the latest video games.
Compared to some of the more expensive attractions in Niagara Falls, spending a few hours at the Midway is quite reasonable, letting you control your budget with the number of tokens purchased. We often find an enjoyable retreat here, and it’s definitely better than the casino!
Niagara Adventure Theatre
Just a short walk from Clifton Hill, the Niagara Adventure Theatre showcases the history of Niagara Falls and the daring people who sought to conquer it. We watched this film years ago when it was included in an attraction’s pass, but now as a standalone, we feel it’s not worth the price. Consider exploring the adventure pass, which includes the Niagara’s Fury movie.
After reviewing all the attractions, it’s clear that the Clifton Hill Pass offers significant value. We thoroughly enjoyed each experience, and once you’re done exploring the falls or scouting the nightlife in Niagara Falls, this pass elevates your journey.
Where to Eat on Clifton Hill
Rainforest Cafe is visually stunning but quite overpriced. Unless you’re ready to splurge as a family, we wouldn’t recommend dining here. Although it’s entertaining for children, saving money is wise.
Hard Rock Cafe is our go-to spot in the Clifton Hill area. While it’s typical roadhouse fare and naturally pricier in Niagara Falls, it offers better value than some other local dining establishments.
Kelsey’s and Boston Pizza are affordable choices, but be prepared to pay more than usual. Niagara Falls generally sees elevated prices. There are also options like Ruby Tuesday, Applebee’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, Tim Hortons, and midway snacks like hot dogs and Beaver Tails available on Clifton Hill.
Where to Stay Near Clifton Hill
A variety of hotels near Clifton Hill caters to all budgets. The Sheraton on the Falls is among the most luxurious options in this area, boasting beautiful views of the American Falls from most suites. Amenities include a spa, restaurant, bar, and pool, all connected to a waterpark. If you want to dine with a view, consider Massimo’s Italian Fallsview Restaurant, but be aware that it closes early. See it on Booking.com / TripAdvisor
The Crown Plaza Niagara Falls Fallsview also features one of the premier restaurants in the area, The Rainbow Room, located on the 10th floor. Here, you have your choice of Massimo’s Italian Restaurant or the Prime Steakhouse. See prices on Booking.com / TripAdvisor
Travelodge by Wyndham is situated just outside the main tourist area along the Niagara Parkway, but it’s within walking distance of popular attractions like Bird Kingdom and Rainbow Bridge. See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
We hope this guide assists you in planning your trip to Niagara Falls and enhances your time on Clifton Hill. The Falls are undoubtedly the main attraction, but when you have fully explored them, Clifton Hill offers a delightful atmosphere perfect for the entire family.
