7 Ways To Escape The Everyday In Niagara Falls
By Sponsor in Arts & Entertainment on Aug 14, 2017 5:00AM
Niagara Falls is the meeting point of the Canadian and American borders, where two countries collide in the form of a spectacular natural wonder. Almost as spectacular as the thundering water is the excitement, food, and adventure found on the Canadian side of the line.
A trip to Niagara Falls is more than a simple weekend getaway; it’s a way to escape the ordinary and discover Canada’s wild side at its finest. Experience the wonderment of the Falls while embarking on a culinary journey, take a thrilling zipline ride across the river, or simply stand on the Canadian side of the border and wave across the Falls at your American friends while enjoying that sweet, low Canadian dollar.
For a trip full of off-the-beaten path experiences, look no further than the following:
1. Flow at Namaste Niagara
For yogis at heart, visiting Niagara Falls is worth the trip for this experience alone. Head down to a platform with a view of the Falls, and get your yoga flow on during four sessions each summer. This is a Zen experience like no other.
Your admission includes the yoga session, plus private admission to the Journey Behind the Falls cruise and breakfast at Queenston Heights Restaurant. Established in 1900, Queenston Heights is one of the oldest eateries in Niagara, as well as one of the most popular. It also marks the spot of an important battle in the War of 1812, making it full of both historical and culinary goodies.
2. Pop-Up Dinner in one of Niagara’s parks
Throughout the summer, Niagara Parks Culinary has been serving up local flavors as part of a pop-up dinner series in unique locations throughout the Niagara Parks. Locations are announced and tickets are released around two weeks prior to each event, so keep an eye on the website before your visit for information on upcoming dinners.
If you’re making the trip in early September, don’t miss the fall pop-up dinner in the stunning Botanical Gardens. Looking to up your romance factor? For just $20, add a horse-drawn carriage ride through the gardens, every day until 5 p.m.
3. Devour a five-course meal at Savour the Sights
In September, visit the Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate vineyard for their Savour the Sights event. The night features five courses of regional cuisine, each one set in a different location in the vineyard, leading guests on a culinary adventure through the estate’s stunning architecture. If you can’t make it for the event, visit the winery’s Entourage Room and patio (open seasonally) to sample food and premium wine pairings from the rich region around Niagara-on-the-Lake.
4. Brave the Niagara Falls Zipline
The WildPlay Niagara Zipline is an escape recommended for adrenaline junkies and those with little fear of heights. This zipline will take you over 2,200 feet across the wild river gorge below for a heart-pounding journey and once in a lifetime experience. You can take in the spectacular natural beauty of the Falls from a unique perspective and have the chance to snap some pretty unique pictures from WildPlay’s summit.
5. Cycle the Niagara River Recreational Trail
Whether you’re a passionate cyclist or simply a casual rider, the bike trails in the Niagara Region provide an easy way to take in the beauty of the landscape while accessing popular destinations such as the world famous Welland Canal and wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake, South Coast, and St. Catharines.
From scenic rides alongside lakes with a leisurely stop at a vineyard, to a challenging uphill journey to test your physical prowess, there’s a path for you. Bring your own bike, or grab a rental from ZOOM Leisure Bikes, located within walking distance of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s historic Queen Street shopping district and many hotels and B&Bs. Looking for a more curated experience? ZOOM also offers guided tours of local wineries that are well worth checking out.
6. Take the Ultimate Selfie
Much of the Niagara Region is, simply put, selfie-worthy. However, for what locals refer to as the “ultimate selfie location”, visit the landing area that was built over the Niagara River. It’s close to the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, and offers an unbelievable panoramic view that can’t be seen from anywhere else.
7. Enjoy a Nighttime Cruise
The falls are spectacular in the daytime, but they truly light up at night. A cruise after dark is an amazing way to experience the Falls as they twinkle, illuminated under starry skies. The cruises feature light snacks and an onboard bar, should you wish to propose a toast to the unbelievable natural beauty, to vacations, or even just to yourselves. The boats board at 9:15 p.m., but plan to arrive early and make a stop at the Fallsview Patio nearby, where you can enjoy live music, appetizers paired with local wine and craft beer, and of course, the unbeatable view.
Whether you’re considering a week in the great Canadian North or just looking for a long weekend out of town, the Niagara Falls region offers adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking natural surroundings that will help you get away from the everyday.
This post is a sponsored collaboration between Destination Canada and Gothamist staff.