Dufferin Islands Park

Niagra Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON 905-371-0254

Description: Not far upriver from the Falls, this cluster of islands quiets hurried lives with ten acres of wildlife habitat and recreational opportunity. The four islands, linked by bridges, offer a swimming area, trails and picnicking locales. Incredible views add to the appeal, and bird-watching regularly attracts a good contingent of folks. In addition, catch-and-release fishing draws outdoor enthusiasts who can't get enough of the Niagara River's irresistible charms. NB This area is home to the "Winter Festival of Lights" from November to January each year.
More Details

Navy Island

Niagra Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON 905-356-1338

Description: If you require a strong dose of nature, Navy Island can deliver it in spades. First populated by Native Americans and used variously over the centuries as a military site and base for shipbuilding, agriculture and tourism, the island now serves as a nature preserve. Lush vegetation and bird and animal populations greet visitors, who come to camp, fish and bird-watch. Access to the island is only via boat and no facilities are available.
More Details

Niagara Falls

6650 Niagara River Pkwy, Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T2

Description: FALLSVIEW. One of the world's great natural wonders, Niagara Falls is over a mile in length and sends more than a half-million gallons of water per second over the edge. Boats and helicopters provide a closer look at the curtain of water, but Journey Behind the Falls offers the most breathtaking views. Be sure to catch the nightly illumination of the falls as well and enjoy fireworks on Friday evenings during the summer. Although you can purchase tickets for each individual attraction, the best value is the Adventure Pass, which includes Maid of the Mist, White Water Walk, Journey Behind the Falls and the Butterfly Conservatory. Paid parking only, about $10.
More Details

Niagara Falls State Park

Prospect St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303 716-278-1796

Description: AMERICAN SIDE. America's oldest state park, this popular locale encompasses not only the Falls themselves but a host of related attractions. Landscaped gardens surround the visitor center, which features a film on the history of the falls. Other attractions include a discovery center (which details the region's geology), an observation tower, and a trolley that transfers folks easily from destination to destination. You'll also find other activities and attractions, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, concessions and fishing. (N.B. Savvy visitors often take advantage of the park's Niagara USA Discovery Pass, which offers discounts on all park attractions and other area activities.)
More Details

Niagara Glen-View Park

Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON 905-371-0254

Description: NIAGARA FALLS. The rugged beauty of the Niagara region is on full display at this preserved area. While the immediate entrance area is a quiet, pastoral retreat, trails that lead into the Gorge and to the river offer much more evidence of the place's past geological drama. Huge boulders, mature trees and a population of native plants and animals set the scene for nature enthusiasts to hike, fish and rock-climb. During the summer, guides lead visitors along the trails, providing informed commentary about the Glen's geology and botany.
More Details

Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens

2565 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6S4 905-358-0025

Description: Initially established in 1936, these botanical gardens attract nearly a million visitors each year. In fact, folks can't seem to get enough of NPBG's 100 acres of manicured beds and plantings, which are maintained by a select group of students from the Park's horticultural school. The arboretum features a wealth of specimen shrubs and trees, including flowering cherry trees. Other specialty gardens include those devoted to roses, herbs and vegetables. You'll also see rhododendrons, irises and a wide variety of perennials.
More Details

Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse

7145 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON

Description: This somewhat futuristic-looking glass structure, dating to 1945, shelters a host of beautiful, delicate plants. Within its walls, visitors find specimens from all over the world, including orchids, lilies, cyclamen and succulents. Plants used for outdoor displays are also started in the greenhouse and seasonal flower shows are presented. As a special treat, tropical birds add extra color. Outside of the greenhouse are several beautifully kept beds, including one that caters to visually impaired visitors.
More Details

Oakes Garden Theatre

River Rd and Clifton Hill, Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Falls, ON

Description: CLIFTON HILL. Built on the site of a destroyed hotel (and incorporating portions of the ruins), this garden was completed in 1937. Remaining faithful to the lay of the land, it takes the shape of an amphitheater, and the stage, engagingly, employs the Falls as a backdrop. Formal in nature, the garden features limestone hardscaping, iron gates, a curved pergola and geometric beds. Water features and rock gardens add character as well, a fact which is not lost on wedding planners and concert promoters.
More Details

Queen Victoria Park

Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T2 905-371-0254

Description: FALLSVIEW. Favored for incredible views of the Falls and its seasonal sweeps of floral color, this park is beautiful any time of year. Its plants hail from across the globe, and amply stocked beds are interspersed with open lawns for visual relief. Magnolia trees, tea roses, a rock garden and carefully clipped shrubs and standards create focal points amid a sea of cultivated beauty. Even in winter, the spare landscape gets a high measure of interest, thanks to the frozen offspray from the Falls.
More Details

Queenston Heights Park

14184 Niagara Pkwy, Queenston, ON L2G 7K3

Description: QUEENSTON. Currently a beautifully manicured park frequented by picnickers and folks in pursuit of recreational pastimes, Queenston Heights is also regarded as Canada's birthplace. During the War of 1812, a decisive battle between the British and Yanks resulted in a British victory, halting an American attempt to annex Canada into US boundaries. Along with its leisure-time facilities, the park features monuments to significant historical figures (Major-General Isaac Brock and Laura Secord), a restaurant and a trailhead. The Brock monument is temporarily closed for refurbishment.
More Details