Now that summer is here and the world is a little more open, planning for the ultimate summer day trip is underway. Are you a true Ontarian if a trip to Niagara isn’t on your summer bucket list? This spot has loads of great stuff to do this summer. From scenic walks to thrilling rides, there’s no end to the fun when it comes to Niagara.

**Editor’s Note: As COVID-19 regulations continually change, please stay up to date on travel restrictions within Ontario. We do not recommend visiting Niagara from another region unless it is safe to do so. 

Here are 10 of the coolest things you can do in Niagara this summer.

CHECK OUT THE FALLS

The first item on our list is the most obvious – if you’re in Niagara, you’ve got to check out the famous falls! There are three total waterfalls that make up the area; the Horseshoe Falls (aka Canadian Falls) are the largest, then the American Falls, and the smaller Bridal Veil Falls. The natural wonder is quite the sight to see.

Where: 6650 Niagara Pky (River Rd), Niagara Falls, Ontario

VISIT A VINEYARD

It’s always wine-o-clock in Niagara! This Ontario region is known as wine country, so it only makes sense that you stop by a vineyard or two while you’re there. There are over 50 wineries in Niagara to choose from, so there’s no end to the options when you’re planning your afternoon sampling tour.

Where: Pick your favourite here

WHITE WATER WALK

niagara summer
Photo via niagarafallstourism.com

There’s no such thing as a regular walk when it comes to Niagara. This thrilling jaunt will take you along a stretch of boardwalk overlooking some of the wildest whitewaters in the world. The trail is 4 kilometres north of the Falls themselves and full of incredible outdoor sights.

Where: 4330 River Rd, Niagara Falls, Ontario

NIAGARA SPEEDWAY

niagara summer
Photo via cliftonhill.com

Or get your thrills at North America’s largest elevated go-kart track. The Niagara Speedway is spread out over 4 acres, with more than 2,000 linear feet of racing surface. The track features a four-story helical spiral, followed by a two-tiered coaster ramp, then another spiral, which you can zoom along at up to 32 km/hr. Safe to say it’s a wild ride.

Where: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Ontario

NIAGARA SKYWHEEL

niagara summer
Photo via cliftonhill.com

Mere steps from the Niagara Speedway, you’ll find the wildly popular attraction that is the Niagara Skywheel. As one of Canada’s largest observation wheels, the Niagara Skywheel offers unparalleled views of the Falls and surrounding areas. Each fully enclosed gondola is equipped with heating and air conditioning for year-round use. It’s especially gorgeous when you ride the Skywheel at night and can look out over the area all lit up.

Where: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Ontario

Related Posts: 
The Scotiabank Arena vaccine clinic is giving away FREE Leafs and Raptors tix this weekend
The CN Tower will be orange on July 1st in solidarity with Indigenous communities

ZIPLINE TO THE FALLS

Thrill seekers, we’ve got another pick for you! This once-in-a-lifetime experience will have you gliding high over the falls themselves. The hands-free, fully-guided experience is tailor-made to be enjoyed by folks of all ages. Plus, you can experience the Zipline at night for even more magic!

Where: 5920 Niagara Pky, Niagara Falls, Ontario

WHIRLPOOL ADVENTURE COURSE

The same folks behind Zipline to the Falls also offer the crazy attraction that is the Whirlpool Adventure Course. Climb, slide, swing, and explore the treetops through a massive outdoor obstacle course. There are three levels available – kids, classic, and extreme – so you’re good to go no matter what your experience level.

Where: 3500 Niagara Pky, Niagara Falls, Ontario

RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT

niagara summer
Photo via cliftonhill.com

You won’t believe this next attraction! See what we did there? The world-famous Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum calls Clifton Hill at Niagara home. The spot features over 500 mind-boggling displays of rare and unusual findings. You’ll spot loads of wild artifacts and items you won’t see anywhere else. It’s not open just yet, but should be sooner rather than later!

Where: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Ontario

MAID OF THE MIST

niagara summer
Photo via cliftonhill.com

Get up close and personal with the Falls themselves when you take a ride on the Maid of the Mist. All the seats on this boat are in the splash zone on this staple attraction. The Maid of the Mist will take you on a breathtaking tour through the base of the Falls. It’s one of the most famous things to do in the area and a trip to Niagara just isn’t complete without it.

Where: 1 Prospect St, Niagara Falls, Ontario

NIAGARA ON THE LAKE

A quieter but just as fun thing to do in Niagara this summer has got to be a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake. This nearby area is like a sophisticated older sibling to Clifton Hill and the Falls. You can stop by tons of cute boutique shops and local restaurants. Or just stroll through the neighbourhood and absorb those welcoming summer vibes.

Where: Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

So, next time you find yourself planning a trip to Niagara, be sure to check out these amazing attractions. Let us know which spot you hit up first!