Okay, let’s have a quick talk.

I’ve noticed that tons of bloggers (especially travel bloggers) have been posting about fun things to do with kids when visiting different destinations. But the thing is, they’re always posting these ideas as adults and often these are things they think the children will find fun. So the question is: is it actually fun for the kids?

Well, sometimes. But I’m tired of reading from the adult’s perspective. I think it’s about time that we start getting a child’s opinion in here, don’t you?

I visited Niagara Falls twice – first in 2004, and again in 2007 – both while I was still under the age of 15. So I spent today digging through my archived pictures and creating a list of things to do with kids in Niagara Falls… from the perspective of a kid visiting Niagara Falls. 

Here we go!

Both times we visited, we stayed on the Canadian side of the falls; and both times, I was thankful that we did. The Canadian side is just… better. It has cooler hotels, cooler shops, cooler money, and just so much more to do in general, espcially for children. Plus, then you can brag to all of your friends that you went to another country! How awesome is that?!

While we’re on the topic of where to stay, you should absolutely spring for a hotel with a water park inside it, if you can afford to. This is what dreams are made of when you’re a kid. Like, what do you mean there’s a water park downstairs??? Sign me up! As an added bonus, it’s a fantastic way to keep the kids entertained so you can relax for a few hours. Or days.

And the best part is, more and more water park hotels have been popping up in the area due to their popularity, so there are plenty of places to choose from! The water parks are honestly a great way to make a fun vacation even more memorable, especiallywhen going down a slide feels like you’re taking a trip over the Falls!

The Maid of the Mist boat tours were still up and running both times I visited, but in 2014 they were taken over by Hornblower Cruises (at least on the Canadian side – they still offer tours leaving from the American side). Regardless, there isn’t really much of a difference between the two… for the day cruises. Now the night cruises – those are a different story.

But whichever company you choose, it is 100% worth it to go on this tour. Not only does it give you a unique view of the falls, but it gets you up close and personal and drenches you to the bone! Take my word for it – this will be one of the highlights of your trip.

Journey Behind the Falls is hands down the best way to experience the full power of the Falls (short of actually taking a dive over them – but don’t do that). This attraction takes you deep into a compound behind the Horseshoe Falls, where the sounds of gushing water drums on the ceiling and echoes through the tunnels like thunder. I still remember the sound of it to this day, and it remains one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had.

And for those who are extra-curious, there are even a few observation decks that put you nearly underneath the gigantic waterfall!

Clifton Hill is one of the big reasons why I advocate for staying on the Canadian side of the Falls. This hill is chalk-full of rides, museums, and candy stores as far as the eye can see – really, a dream come true for kids! Some of the main attractions include:

• The Niagara Sky Wheel
• Movieland Wax Museum of the Stars
• The Great Canadian Midway
• Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum
• Hershey’s Candy Store
• Rainforest Cafe
• Hard Rock Cafe

The Niagara Falls Light Show is a time-honored tradition that has lasted for almost a century. The Falls were first illuminated in 1925 and have continued to light up with various colors (and even fireworks if the weather permits) every single night. Bring your camera!

This is something I didn’t do until my second trip, but I’m glad I did it! The Whirlpool Aero Car takes you high above the Niagara River and across the Great Gorge, giving you a stunning – and if I’m being honest, terrifying – view of the beastly Niagara Whirlpool.

But despite how freaky it can be, the cable car is extremely safe and the views are worth it… as long as you aren’t afraid of heights!

Butterfly conservatories are fun no matter where you go!

My entire family is full of history nerds, so we’ve always loved strolling through museums. And I have to say, the museums around Niagara Falls are pretty interesting to walk through, because the Falls themselves have such an interesting history!

This museum features galleries about the War of 1812, the surrounding Niagara Falls community, and a temporary exhibit which switches out every so-often.

(Photo from pixabay)

Located near the mouth of the Canadian Falls, the historic Table Rock Welcome Centre is host to over 8 million visitors each year. Step inside and you’ll find restaurants, activities, and some of the most interesting shopping you’ll find in the area. My favorite store was always Canadian Treasures, where you can find all kinds of souvenirs that celebrate Canadian and Native American culture. Lots of the items are handmade and environmentally green!

(Photo from wikimedia commons)

I’ll admit that I don’t think we saw this either time we visited, but I know it will be at the top of my “to do” list when I go back! This short IMAX movie is all about the history of the falls and the various daredevils who performed death-defying stunts over them. The stories of the daredevils, for me, is one of the most interesting facets of Niagara Falls’ history, and it’s something I will always love to hear about.

And bonus: just outside, there’s a small museum of many of the items that these people used during their stunts!

All in all, I love Niagara Falls. Every time you go, you’ll come across new opportunities and different perspectives, which builds a unique experience and fond memories. The Falls are an incredible and majestic display of nature’s power, and the surrounding community has a lot to offer that will keep you entertained for days and days and days.

Many Canadians are campaigning to make Niagara Falls the 8th Wonder of the World – and rightfully so, in my opinion. It truly is a sight to behold.

Have you been to Niagara Falls? What did you think? Did I leave something off the list? If you haven’t been, would you like to go? Are you bringing kids? What do you think your favorite part will be? Leave a comment down below and let me know!