Starting with Niagara Falls State Park which opens at 9:00 am and offers the best views of the Niagara Falls while being surrounded by nature. Take a boat tour on Maid of the Mist to experience the falls up close with a poncho provided and learn about the history and geology of the falls. Afterward, have lunch at Top of the Falls Restaurant which provides a beautiful view of the falls. Spend the rest of the day exploring the park's attractions such as Cave of The Winds, Three Sisters Island, and the Niagara Gorge Trail System.
Start the day at the Aquarium of Niagara which opens at 9:00 am, where you will encounter seahorses, seals, sea lions, sharks, and discover the indoor and outdoor pools. Afterward, visit Niagara Whirlpool State Park which opens at 10:00 am, take the hiking trail that leads to the Whirlpool Rapids and take in a beautiful view of Whirlpool Rapids Gorge. Afterward, sample some tasty treats and coffee in the nearby Whirlpool State Park Visitor Center.
Begin the day with a visit to charming Lewiston which opens at 10:00 am, a spectacular place that mixes history and culture with boutiques and antique shops. Afterward, drive 15 minutes to Old Fort Niagara, which opens at 9:00 am and is famous for being the longest continually occupied military site in North America with interesting historical exhibits, artillery demonstrations, and original 18th-century buildings.
Start the day by taking Maid of the Mist boat tour again which opens at 8:30 am and get a different perspective of the falls. Afterward, visit Niagara Falls Observation Tower which opens at 9:00 am and provides stunning views of the Horseshoe Falls. Here you can learn about the history of the observation tower, and experience Niagara Falls' Daredevil Museum.
If you have more time, you can take a helicopter tour over Niagara Falls or explore Niagara-on-the-Lake's wine region. Alternatively, if you have less time, we recommend removing Old Fort Niagara from the itinerary or shortening visits to the Aquarium of Niagara and Niagara Whirlpool State Park to 1 hour each. And if you're looking to save some money, pack snacks and drinks and consider walking instead of driving short distances.