Many of us are feeling comfortable to travel again, but if a plane isn’t your thing…..jump in your car and explore getaways that aren’t far from home.

The beautiful area of Niagara is a great place for families, friends, or even a fun girls trip!  I want to jump right in with one of my top travel tips. You might put your hotel lower on the list because you won’t be spending so much time inside on your staycation….but where you stay should be top of your list…

Location, location, location!

Hotel Accommodation

I stayed at the Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa….it’s just 100 yards from Niagara Falls and your room overlooking the falls is breathtaking…

Experience the excitement and beauty of Canada’s iconic Niagara Falls at the AAA 4-diamond, 5-star luxury hotel. The incredible position overlooking the falls offers a stunning view from the newly renovated hotel rooms and suites, dining venues and meeting rooms. Enjoy award-winning hospitality from a selection of restaurants.  You are within minutes of attractions and entertainment that includes Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara Falls and more.

So do your research and really find somewhere you will enjoy your night cap.

Christienne Fallsview Spa

The serenity of the spectacular view will allow you to escape and immerse yourself into complete relaxation and tranquility. Christienne Fallsview Spa is an oasis complemented by the breathtaking view of both the Canadian and American Falls. A luxurious interior will surround you with natural elements of stone accents, exotic woods and warmth. Signature sights, scents and sounds enhance the soothing atmosphere.

Attractions

TRAVEL TIP: Research attractions that you can walk through, something that isn’t rushed, enjoy the moment

Journey behind the falls

To stand at the heart of Niagara, you’ll first need to descend 125 feet and explore 130-year-old tunnels through the bedrock, but you’ll feel the thunderous vibration of the Horseshoe Falls long before you see them. The observation deck at the foot of this 13-storey-tall wonder will leave you breathless (and maybe a little bit wet), but don’t forget the viewing portals cut straight through the rock, offering a once-in-a-lifetime view of one-fifth of the world’s fresh water crashing down in front of you.

White Water Walk 

White Water Walk offers a first-hand lesson in the raw power and peril of the Niagara River’s Class 6 whitewater rapids, some of the wildest in North America. The roar of the river provides a deceptive calmness, the perfect ambiance for your walk among the many platforms that offer incredible views. The sight on this quarter-mile boardwalk will take your breath away!
As part of this self-guided experience, enjoy stories about the geology of the Niagara Gorge and the plant and animal life you may see on your visit to Niagara Parks.

SkyWheel

Take a ride on Canada’s largest observation wheel, the Clifton Hill SkyWheel. Towering 175 feet (53 metres) over the Niagara Falls horizon, the Clifton Hill SkyWheel is the most exciting way to see Niagara Falls. From this vantage point you will be treated to memorable views of the Horseshoe and American Falls, the Niagara River and other landmarks.

The ride duration varies from 8 to 12 minutes with spectacular aerial views for miles in every direction.

Niagara Helicopters

Niagara Helicopters invites you to discover Niagara from an Eagle’s eye perspective. We are more than just a helicopter ride, we are Niagara’s only Heli-touring company providing the view of only the best of Niagara Falls

Restaurants

Massimo’s Italian Fallsview Restaurant

A modern and refreshing take on authentic Italian cuisine and the most spectacular views of Niagara Falls. Massimo Capra is one of Canada’s most prominent chefs and Massimo’s Italian Fallsview restaurant reflects his distinct connection to both Italy and Niagara through a combination of classic Italian cuisine, fantastic wines, and high-quality often locally-sourced ingredients. At this restaurant, old world tradition meets new world style, and with every meal diners experience a true taste of Italy and the finest of Niagara Falls.

Table Rock House Restaurant

Dine as close as you can get to the Falls. Table Rock House is open year-round and FeastON certified. Using the freshest ingredients from local farms, their award-winning Chef expertly prepares Niagara inspired cuisine. Table Rock House also features a wide selection of world-class VQA wines from the vineyards of Niagara.

Flour Mill Scratch Kitchen Restaurant

Everything at Flour Mill Scratch Kitchen Restaurant is made to order and freshness is never compromised. Enjoy dining in the only historic restaurant in Niagara Falls dating back to 1904. The space features rustic warm woods, natural stone, and a natural stone fireplace with contemporary design elements. Feast On certified, The Flour Mill Scratch Kitchen Restaurant recognizes businesses that are committed to sourcing Ontario grown & made food & drinks. Only the finest ingredients are brought to your table.

Transportation

You can rent a Snap Ebike and can cycle the Niagara River Trail from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake or Fort Erie on a Fully Charged Electric Bike.

See the Best Lookout Points, Visit Fine Wineries and Niagara’s Iconic Attractions, including Fort George, Botanical Gardens, Brock’s Monument, Floral Clock & the Niagara Whirlpool. It’s lovely.

Also, a transport company to take you to all the wineries, like Brewery Distillery Tours, they’re great!

Wineries

Some of my favourite wineries:

Peller Estates Winery and Restaurant

A proudly Canadian winery crafting quality wines from the heart of Ontario’s Niagara Peninsula. Enjoyed at home or experienced at our award-winning Estate property in Niagara-on-the-Lake, wines are always best served with family who are friends and friends who feel like family.

Trius Winery and Restaurant

Trius Winery is a Canadian winemaking pioneer that has been crafting fine VQA wines from premium grapes for over 40 years. Nestled between the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario, the grapes are harvested from four Niagara-on-the-Lake appellations to create distinctive varietals that reflect our region’s unique taste of place.

Wayne Gretsky Estates

Delicious, approachable wines created from the finest Niagara and Okanagan grapes. Innovative Canadian whiskies, spirits and beer that are changing the game. Whether enjoying a bottle at home or visiting our properties, Wayne Gretzky Estates offers you an opportunity to experience a whole new side of The Great One.

Personalize your trip 

TIP: Support small businesses and order personalized items for your group

I love giving gifts and making them personal….

You have a few personalized items there, those are from a lovely small business called Topped with Glitter.

If you’re headed to the wineries, how about personalized tumblers or wine name tags…your friends will love it and remember your staycation every time they use it!