Family-Friendly Adventures in Niagara Falls!

Whirlpool Aero Car

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Visiting the Whirlpool Aero Car

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your exciting day early by heading to the Whirlpool Aero Car located at 3850 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario. You can drive there or use the WEGO bus service, which offers convenient access to major attractions. Arrive by 10 AM to avoid the crowds and enjoy the cool morning breeze. The aerial car, designed by Spanish engineer Leonardo Torres Quevedo and operational since 1916, offers a unique bird’s-eye view of the Niagara Whirlpool and the Niagara Gorge.

Educational Fun Fact: Teach the kids about the natural force of water! The Niagara Whirlpool is a natural whirlpool along the Niagara River formed at the end where the river abruptly changes direction.

Midday: Lunch and Leisure

After your aerial adventure, have a relaxing picnic at one of the nearby tables in the Aero Car park or choose a family-friendly restaurant along the Niagara Parkway. Enjoy local dishes while discussing the engineering marvel you just experienced.

Afternoon: Nature Walk and Souvenir Shopping

Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk down the Niagara Recreational Trail, a perfect way to digest and immerse in nature’s beauty. This trail runs parallel to the Niagara River and offers stunning views and photo opportunities.

Next, visit the gift shop at the Aero Car station. It"s a great place to buy educational books and fun souvenirs like model Aero Cars for the kids to remember their journey by.

Late Afternoon: Wrap Up

Conclude your day by driving or taking the bus back to your accommodation, filled with memorable experiences and new knowledge. The whole family will cherish the unique combination of thrills, nature, and learning from the Whirlpool Aero Car experience.

Tip: Check the weather forecast in advance and dress accordingly, as the ride can be breezy.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Why Visit?

Day 1: Explore the Falls

Start your adventure at the iconic Niagara Falls, easily accessible from Toronto or Buffalo airports. Park at the Falls Parking Lot for closest access. Begin with the Journey Behind the Falls experience, where you descend through bedrock to tunnels that lead to observation decks near the thundering waters—a thrilling introduction! Kids will love the up-close view of the Horseshoe Falls, and you"ll all appreciate the provided biodegradable rain ponchos to stay (somewhat) dry.

Lunch Break: Table Rock Welcome Centre

Grab lunch at the Table Rock Welcome Centre. It offers a variety of dining options with a spectacular view of the Falls.

Afternoon: Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory

Take the WEGO bus system to the Butterfly Conservatory (10-minute ride from the Falls). This magical attraction houses over 2,000 colorful butterflies in a lush, tropical environment. It"s both educational and enchanting, perfect for a calm retreat after the morning"s excitement.

Day 2: Fun and Learning

Morning at Clifton Hill: Start your day at Clifton Hill, a short walk from Niagara Falls. This street is famous for its quirky attractions. Visit the Niagara SkyWheel for panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding area. Next, explore the Dinosaur Adventure Golf, an exciting mini-golf course that"s fun for the whole family.

Afternoon: Niagara Cruises

Head back to the falls for an unforgettable Hornblower Niagara Cruise. This boat ride brings you right into the mist of the Falls, offering an exhilarating perspective. It’s an absolute must-do to feel the power of the water up close.

Evening: Explore Niagara-on-the-Lake

Conclude your visit with a short drive to Niagara-on-the-Lake, a picturesque town known for its historic sites and lush vineyards. Enjoy a calm evening strolling through the town or trying some local ice cream.

This itinerary highlights the perfect blend of thrill, education, and relaxation, ensuring that every family member has an unforgettable experience at Niagara Falls!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Journey Behind the Falls

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Journey Behind the Falls Adventure

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure early by arriving at Journey Behind the Falls around 9 AM to beat the crowds. Located at 6650 Niagara Parkway, the attraction is part of the Niagara Falls State Park in Ontario, Canada. If you’re staying in Niagara Falls, you can easily catch a WEGO bus, which stops right in front of the attraction, or if driving, there"s convenient parking nearby.

Exploring Journey Behind the Falls

Purchase your tickets upon arrival or book them online in advance for convenience. Begin your exploration by descending 125 feet through bedrock in an elevator, which opens up to a thrilling network of tunnels. As you walk through, you’ll be treated to fascinating geological and historical facts about the creation of the falls, provided through informational plaques along the pathway.

Next, step out onto the observation decks where you’ll experience the awe-inspiring sight of one-fifth of the world’s fresh water crashing down in front of you. Feel the thunderous vibration and the refreshing mist from this unique vantage point. Don’t forget your raincoat provided with your ticket - you’ll need it here!

Lunch Break

Around noon, take a short walk or bus ride to the nearby Fallsview area where you can grab a bite at one of the family-friendly restaurants offering views of the falls.

Afternoon Fun

Post-lunch, spend some leisurely time at the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservary or take a picturesque ride on the Niagara SkyWheel, located just a few minutes away. Both attractions offer a gentle pace perfect for families and are great ways to round off your visit.

Departure

Head back to your accommodation or continue exploring the rich surroundings of Niagara Parks. With plenty of sights and activities, every moment at Niagara Falls is an opportunity for family fun and cherished memories!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Cave of the Winds

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for the Cave of the Winds

Morning: Arrival and Discovery Tour

Start your adventure at Cave of the Winds in Manitou Springs, Colorado. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Parking is available onsite. Begin with the Discovery Tour, a guided 45-minute walk suitable for all ages. Delve into the fascinating underground world as you explore the limestone caverns. You"ll learn about the cave’s discovery in 1881 and see stunning formations like stalactites and stalagmites. The tour is stroller-accessible, ensuring everyone in the family can enjoy the experience.

Midday: Lunch and Geology Talk

After exploring the caves, head to the onsite café for a casual lunch featuring kid-friendly options. Post-lunch, attend a short, engaging geology talk by one of the guides. It"s a great way for kids to ask questions about rocks, formations, and cave ecosystems.

Afternoon: Bat-A-Pult Adventure

In the afternoon, gear up for the Bat-A-Pult — an exhilarating aerial ride that launches you across Williams Canyon at speeds that make you feel like you"re flying. It"s a thrilling addition for older kids and adults (requires a minimum height of 42 inches).

Late Afternoon: Nature Walk and Gift Shop

Wind down with a leisurely nature walk along the canyon rim. The trails are easy, offering stunning views and the chance to spot local wildlife. Before leaving, stop by the gift shop where you can pick up educational books and fun souvenoids to remember your day.

Interesting Fact: The Cave of the Winds was named after the whistling noises heard at the cave’s entrance, which early explorers likened to the wind.

With educational tours, adrenaline-pumping activities, and beautiful natural scenery, Cave of the Winds is a unique and memorable destination for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Skylon Tower

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Skylon Tower and Surrounding Attralties

Morning: Journey to Skylon Tower

Start your day early at Niagara Falls and head to the iconic Skylon Tower, located at 5200 Robinson St, Niagara Falls, ON. If you"re staying nearby, a leisurely walk will take you directly to the tower. Alternatively, ample parking is available for those driving. At 160 meters tall, the tower offers breathtaking panoramic views. Begin with the "Ride to the Top" in the glass-enclosed elevator, a thrilling 52-second journey your kids will love. Once atop, enjoy breakfast at the Summit Suite Buffet Dining Room, where floor-to-ceiling windows provide a spectacular backdrop.

Midday: Explore the Indoor Attractions

After breakfast, explore the Family Fun Centre, perfect for children, with games and activities to keep them entertained. Don"t miss the 3D/4D Falls Movie "Legends of Niagara Falls," which provides a unique historical perspective of the area in an engaging format for kids.

Afternoon: Lunch and Nearby Attractions

For lunch, descend to the Revolving Dining Room for a meal with a view, rotating 360 degrees every hour. Post-lunch, take a short walk to the nearby Clifton Hill, known as the "street of fun." Here, attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not and the Niagara SkyWheel await to amuse your family.

Evening: Wind Down with a View

Return to Skylon Tower for dinner at dusk in the Revolving Dining Room, offering a different but equally stunning nighttime vista of the illuminated falls and cityscape. Finish your day with the Illumination Tower, where you can control the lights that illuminate Niagara Falls—a magical experience to end your day.

Through each step of your visit, Skylon Tower and its surroundings provide an engaging mix of education, entertainment, and breathtaking views, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.