Niagara Falls With Kids – Best Family Activities and Experiences

Niagara Falls offers much more than its stunning waterfalls. Families can enjoy a variety of exciting attractions that kids will love. Feel the mist aboard the Maid of the Mist boat, explore the tunnels behind the falls, or take a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car above the gorge. Additional fun includes butterfly conservatories, interactive science exhibits, and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf. Here are some of the unforgettable activities for families to experience in Niagara Falls.

Journey Behind the Falls

For a close-up view of Horseshoe Falls, Journey Behind the Falls offers an unforgettable experience. The safe outdoor observation deck is perfect for photos and soaking in the sound of over 681,000 gallons of water rushing each second. For extra adventure, step into the mist to cool off on warm summer days, the kids will love it.

Niagara River Zipline

For families seeking an exciting outdoor activity, the WildPlay Zipline to the Falls offers a memorable experience. The ride spans 2,200 feet across the Niagara River Gorge, providing breathtaking views of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls simultaneously. The journey feels swift yet surprisingly calm while gliding through the air.

The launch platform overlooks the river, creating a natural thrill even before the ride begins. Staff members maintain a high level of professionalism, ensuring that all participants, including children, remain safe and comfortable throughout. Children as young as seven years old can join, depending on their size and weight. This zipline adventure combines excitement with family-friendly safety, making it a standout option for visitors.

Niagara Helicopters Ride

To impress the whole family, consider booking a ride with Niagara Helicopters. This aerial tour offers stunning views of the Niagara River, the whirlpool, and all three waterfalls. The flight covers a lot of ground and provides a unique perspective not available from the ground.

The helicopter features a glass cabin that allows excellent visibility from every seat, making it easy for kids and adults alike to enjoy the scenery. The ride is smooth and comfortable, even for those flying for the first time. While the cost is on the higher side, the breathtaking views and memorable photos make it a worthwhile experience for anyone wanting to see Niagara from a new angle.

Horseback Ride

Explore beyond the usual paths by taking the kids horseback riding at Niagara Riding Stables. For more than 60 years, this stable has offered a peaceful way to experience the Niagara region, guiding riders along scenic trails by the Niagara Escarpment. Both kids and adults enjoy bonding with the horses, learning about their care, and spending time outdoors while trying something new. Horseback riding provides a chance to slow down and fully appreciate the natural surroundings on a gentle trail ride. However, keep in mind that trail rides are available for children aged 10 and older.

Hike the Niagara Glen

Get the family moving by visiting Niagara Glen, one of the top hiking spots near Niagara Falls. This well-maintained Niagara Parks area features a 4-kilometer loop that winds through the park. For younger children, shorter trails cut through the middle, making it easier to explore.

The hike includes rocky paths, large boulders, views of the turquoise river, and towering trees along the way. The trail begins with a large metal staircase that offers stunning overlooks of the surrounding landscape. Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring snacks and water for the journey.

Whirlpool Aero Car

Step aboard the historic Whirlpool Aero Car for a unique ride over the Niagara Gorge and the swirling whirlpools below. Some objects have been caught in these whirlpools for weeks, adding to the river’s mysterious charm. This ten-minute journey offers a rare view of the river and the eddy that loops back on itself, all from a suspended cable car. Both kids and adults enjoy the experience, though it may not suit those with a fear of heights. The Aero Car hangs 61 meters (200 feet) above the water, so be sure everyone is comfortable with the height before starting this adventure.

Niagara SkyWheel

The Niagara SkyWheel on Clifton Hill offers some of the best views of the falls without getting wet. Standing 175 feet tall, this Ferris wheel has enclosed, temperature-controlled gondolas, making it an excellent choice throughout the year regardless of weather conditions. Each ride lasts around 10 to 12 minutes and provides stunning sights of Horseshoe Falls, the Niagara River, and the city skyline.

The height delivers a gentle thrill, while the slow pace ensures younger children feel secure. The SkyWheel adds variety to a day of activities such as boat tours or hikes and serves as a perfect break or way to end time spent exploring Clifton Hill’s attractions.

Niagara Speedway Race

Take the driver’s seat and race along North America’s largest elevated go-kart track at Niagara Speedway. While costumes aren’t required, they can add to the fun. The track reaches four stories high, with thrilling loops that drop down an elevated hill before circling back around two more stories below to complete each lap. Combining throttle-powered go-karts with the excitement of a roller coaster-style track, this experience offers a unique and exhilarating way to enjoy Niagara Falls with kids.

Hornblower Niagara Boat Tour

The Hornblower Niagara Cruises boat tour remains a favorite for good reason. The ride takes passengers right into the heart of Horseshoe Falls, offering unforgettable sights, thunderous sounds, and an immersive misty experience. Ponchos are provided, but getting soaked is part of the adventure. It’s one of the rare chances to truly feel the power of the falls up close.

This roughly 20-minute journey is a thrilling highlight for both kids and adults. Despite the proximity to the falls, the ride stays surprisingly smooth. Plenty of deck space allows for great photo opportunities and for many visitors, this is the most memorable experience of their Niagara trip.

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