Niagara Falls Visitor Guide

How far is Niagara Falls from Toronto and how do you get there?

Niagara Falls is about 130 km from Toronto, roughly a 1 hour 30 minute drive in normal traffic along the QEW. You can drive yourself, but parking at the Falls is expensive and busy. A guided tour with hotel pickup removes the driving, parking and navigation, and lets you enjoy the Niagara Parkway and wine country on the way.

What is the best time to visit Niagara Falls?

Late spring to early autumn (roughly May to October) offers the warmest weather and the full boat cruise season, which runs from about April to early November. Summer evenings add the nightly illumination and seasonal fireworks. Autumn colour along the Niagara Parkway is outstanding, and winter brings frozen mist and festival lights with far fewer crowds.

How long should you spend at Niagara Falls?

Plan at least 5 to 6 hours at and around the Falls for the boat cruise, viewpoints and lunch. A full-day tour of 8 to 9 hours adds the Niagara Parkway and a winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake. If you want to see the Falls illuminated after dark, allow 10 to 11 hours door to door.

What are the best things to do at Niagara Falls?

Top experiences are the boat cruise to the base of the Horseshoe Falls, the Table Rock viewpoint, Journey Behind the Falls (the winter alternative to the cruise on our tours), the Skylon Tower observation deck, the Whirlpool Aero Car and scenic Niagara Parkway stops, and a tasting at a Niagara-on-the-Lake winery, including Ontario icewine.

Is Niagara Falls worth visiting in winter?

Yes. The Falls run all year, and in winter the mist freezes along the rocks and trees while the Winter Festival of Lights brightens the Parkway. The boat cruise pauses for the season, so on our tours Journey Behind the Falls replaces it at no extra charge. Dress warmly and wear boots.

What should you wear and bring to Niagara Falls?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and layers, and bring a light waterproof jacket because the mist can soak you, even in summer. Ponchos are provided on the boat cruise. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera and a refillable water bottle are useful, and bring a warm hat and gloves in winter.

Which Niagara Falls tour from Toronto is right for you?

First-time visitors usually choose the Day Tour with boat cruise. Choose the Evening Tour to see the illuminated Falls, the Freedom Day Tour for flexibility and a lower price, the Airport Tour for a layover at Pearson, or a Private Tour for families and groups of 1 to 56 guests.

Ready to go?

See our Niagara Falls tour packages, read the FAQ, or request a booking. We pick up from hotels across Toronto and the GTA.