48 Hours in Niagara Falls

It’s no secret that Niagara Falls is our favorite weekend getaway in Ontario. The largest waterfall by flow rate in the world is practically in our backyard! We have been visiting Niagara Falls together since 1996, enjoying everything from quick one-day trips to long weekends. However, it can be overwhelming to visit.

With the crowds, casinos, and epic attractions, how can you experience the best of Niagara Falls in just two days? We’ve created this two-day Niagara Falls itinerary to help you plan the ultimate getaway.

Niagara Falls Itinerary – Day 1

This two-day Niagara Falls itinerary primarily focuses on the Canadian side, which offers the best views and attractions. This plan is ideal for honeymooners, day trippers, weekenders, or regular visitors. Stay tuned for our guide to American Niagara Falls coming soon.

Morning Niagara Falls

Before you start your exciting day, check into your hotel and leave your bags with the front desk. We suggest staying at The Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa. Your room won’t be ready until 3 PM, but you can enjoy the amenities like the Burning Springs Spa, which features relaxing thermal pools.

Once you’ve checked in, make your way to your first stop on the itinerary: Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Hotels in 2024.

Journey Behind the Falls

One of the highlights of your visit is the Journey Behind the Falls, a fascinating experience that takes you 125 feet under the falls to explore 130-year-old tunnels that lead to portals directly behind the thundering Horseshoe Falls. Getting up close to Horseshoe Falls provides an unforgettable experience.

We recommend heading straight to the end of the tunnels before working your way back, as the initial lookout often has long lines. This approach allows you to enjoy the lookouts with shorter wait times.

Don’t miss the outdoor observation deck at the base of Horseshoe Falls, which gives you the chance to feel the immense power of this 188-foot waterfall. Arrive by 8:30 AM to beat the crowds!

Practical Information:

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Location: Table Rock Centre, 6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON

Niagara Falls Power Station

The newly opened Niagara Falls Power Station invites visitors to descend 54 meters (180 feet) via a glass elevator to explore the first major Canadian power plant on the Niagara River. You’ll walk through a 670-meter (2,200-foot) tunnel leading to an observation deck with stunning views of Horseshoe Falls and the American Falls.

This interactive museum details the history of how energy was harnessed from the falls, and visitors can enjoy a nighttime sound and light show with an interactive light display accompanied by music.

Practical Information:

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Duration: 1 hour
• Location: 7005 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1A0

Table Rock Viewpoint

While you’re at the Table Rock Centre, don’t miss the chance to step out to the top of the waterfalls for one of the best viewpoints. Stand right at the river’s edge and observe the immense flow of water from above. If time allows, consider visiting the Niagara Parks Power Station for a deeper dive into the history of energy harnessing, although this will take an additional 90 minutes.

• Opening Hours: All hours
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Location: Table Rock Centre, 6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON

Afternoon

Lunch at TableRock Restaurant

At this point, you’ll find the perfect spot for lunch with excellent views of Horseshoe Falls. Table Rock House Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with floor-to-ceiling windows. Enjoy delicious farm-to-table meals complemented by Ontario VQA wines.

Niagara’s Fury

Before leaving the Table Rock Centre, take advantage of your Niagara Falls Pass to enter Niagara’s Fury. This 4D cinema experience might not be at the top of our list, but since it’s included in your Adventure Pass and you’re already there, it’s worth a quick visit. Guests are provided with ponchos for the interactive experience that immerses you into the history of Niagara Falls.

Practical Information:

• Niagara’s Fury Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Location: Table Rock Centre, 6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON

Funicular

From Niagara’s Fury or Table Rock Centre, you can easily access the Falls Incline Railway (funicular) that transports you to the Fallsview area for the rest of your first day. This quick ride will take you from the Niagara Falls area to the vibrant Fallsview Entertainment area.

Practical Information:

• Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Duration: 5 minutes
• Location: 7001 Portage Road, Niagara Falls, ON

Skylon Tower

No visit to Niagara Falls is complete without experiencing the Skylon Tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the falls and surrounding area, including Buffalo, New York. At the base, visitors can enjoy an arcade and midway before heading up the tower for stunning views from the observation deck.

Practical Information:

• Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Duration: 1 – 2 hours
• Location: 200 Robinson St, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 2A2

Evening

Relax in Fallsview or Enjoy Local Attractions

The Fallsview Area is an excellent place to spend your evening. You can choose from various attractions, including indoor skydiving, a 4D theater, or enjoying the amenities at your hotel. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, The Marriott Fallsview Hotel is our top choice for couples, offering a luxurious spa experience with thermal pools and hydrotherapy.

Dinner at The Keg Steakhouse

For dinner, we highly recommend the Keg Steakhouse in Embassy Suites, adjacent to the Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa. This location offers stunning views of Niagara Falls and is a fantastic spot to witness the Illumination of the Falls and Fireworks show without the outdoor crowds.

Illumination of the Falls

For those not dining at a fallsview restaurant, visiting the falls for the illumination is a must. The American Bridal Veil and Horseshoe Falls are illuminated every day of the year starting at dusk, with fireworks displays during the summer months. Grab a blanket and enjoy the show at Queen Victoria Park.

Fallsview Casino Resort OLG Stage

If you’re feeling tired, you may decide to retire for the evening in your room with a beautiful view of the falls. For those who seek nightlife, the Fallsview Casino is a popular destination, while the OLG Fallsview Stage showcases world-class entertainment. Just make sure to check event schedules in advance, as tickets sell out quickly.

Niagara Falls Itinerary – Day 2

On day two of your Niagara Falls itinerary, you’ll explore a different side of Niagara, focusing on the traditional attractions from Clifton Hill to Maid of the Mist.

Morning Day 2

Hornblower (Maid of the Mist Boat Tour)

Kick off your second day at Niagara’s iconic Hornblower. This exhilarating boat tour offers an unforgettable experience, bringing you close to the Horseshoe Falls. Be prepared to get wet as you head directly into the mist, but don’t worry, rain ponchos are provided!

This is an essential part of your Niagara itinerary; therefore, we recommend making your arrangements in advance to skip the ticket booth.

WildPlay Zipline

Right after the Hornblower cruise, walk up the stairs to enjoy the exhilarating WildPlay Zipline that lets you soar toward Horseshoe Falls. Experience breathtaking views of all three falls while reaching speeds exceeding 40 mph.

Whitewater Walk

Catch the WeGo People Mover (included in your Adventure Pass) to visit the White Water Walk—a unique opportunity to witness the fierce class 6 rapids of the Niagara River. This wooden platform leads you 70 meters (229 feet) down to the Niagara Gorge, offering breathtaking perspectives of the largest standing waves in North America.

Lunch at Clifton Hill

Clifton Hill is the hub of fun activities in Niagara. Consider stopping at the Hard Rock Cafe or the Rainforest Cafe for lunch, or if you’re on a budget, there are fast food options available. Watch our video: How to Save Money in Niagara Falls.

Afternoon

Clifton Hill Attractions

After lunch, it’s time to grab your Clifton Hill Fun Pass, which gives you access to six attractions, including the Niagara Skywheel, Zombie Attack, Cosmic Coaster, and Movieland Wax Museum. This bundled pass is an ideal way to experience the highlights on the Street of Fun directly at the Falls.

Insider Tip: Save the SkyWheel for last; it stays open until 2 AM, allowing you to visit when crowds are smaller.

Wizard Golf

For unique Instagram photos, try out the glow-in-the-dark mini putt experience at Wizard Golf. This imaginative course ties in Harry Potter themes and tends to be less busy than Dinosaur Golf.

Cosmic Coaster – Ride The Movie

The Cosmic Coaster offers an immersive 4D theater ride that feels like a thrilling roller coaster experience. It provides an entertaining adventure through movie graphics that make it well worth the price.

Movieland Wax Museum

Not far from the Cosmic Coaster, the Movieland Wax Museum is included in your fun pass. Explore familiar faces from your favorite movies in a fun stroll around the museum.

Exploring More Attractions

Stroll farther along Clifton Hill to discover more attractions. The Great Canadian Midway, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Dracula’s Museum, the Niagara Speedway, and the Big Top Maze offer fun for everyone. Don’t forget to sample the local treats like Beaver Tails or ice cream!

Evening

After an exciting day, hop on the WeGo to the Fallsview area to clean up or take a relaxing swim before your evening festivities. If you prefer to stay near Clifton Hill, consider booking a room at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, which is known for its luxury accommodations.

Dining at Massimo’s Fallsview Restaurant

For dinner, enjoy the fantastic views and delicious dishes at Massimo’s Italian Fallsview Restaurant, located in Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, which overlooks the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

Fireworks Show

If you haven’t booked a reservation at a fallsview restaurant, make your way to the falls to catch the nightly fireworks display. They provide a dazzling spectacle that can’t be missed.

Zombie Attack

Don’t forget to use your Clifton Hill Pass for an evening of fun at Zombie Attack, a high-tech 6D experience where you battle zombies. Equipped with 3D glasses and a laser gun, this is a thrilling must-try for immersive gaming enthusiasts.

Nightmares Haunted House

For an unforgettable scare, visit Nightmares, known for its haunting thrills. It’s the longest-running haunted house in North America and challenges guests to last the experience.

SkyWheel Night Ride

Conclude your second night in Niagara Falls by riding the SkyWheel. With shorter lines after dark, it provides an excellent view of the illuminated falls from its climate-controlled gondolas, which can accommodate up to six passengers. Enjoy several revolutions while soaking in the night scenery.

Best Time to Visit Niagara Falls

Remember to carry your passport if you plan to cross into the USA, as the vibe in Niagara Falls State Park is quite different. Niagara Falls is accessible all year round; however, summer months tend to be crowded as visitors flock to experience the myriad attractions available.

This comprehensive itinerary offers plenty to do in Niagara Falls, ensuring you can easily extend your trip for even more adventures, from charming Niagara on the Lake to thrilling waterparks. Start planning your Niagara Falls adventure today!