If you’re looking for a mix of breathtaking natural beauty, indulgent food, and a dash of adventure, Niagara Falls, Canada, is the ultimate long weekend destination. Here’s how our 3-day getaway unfolded—packed with amazing meals, unforgettable views, and plenty of time to soak in the magic of the falls.

⸻

Day 1: Saturday – The Journey Begins

We hit the road early, leaving at 7 AM to maximize our time in Niagara. Midway through the drive, we stopped for lunch at Sarina’s Pizza and Restaurant in Philipsburg, PA. This little gem surprised us with perfectly crispy pizza and one of the freshest Greek salads we’ve had on the road—fuel we definitely needed for the rest of the drive.

By the afternoon, we arrived at our hotel, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls – Fallsview, located on Fallsview Boulevard. We splurged a bit for the premium Fallsview family suite, and let me just say—it was absolutely worth it. Waking up to a panoramic view of Horseshoe Falls feels like you’re inside a postcard.

The hotel has its own hidden perk: the Falls Incline Railway sits right behind the property. This short funicular ride is the most convenient way to get down to the Niagara Parkway and right up close to the falls—no parking headaches or long walks required.

Dinner was an experience in itself at Sky Fallsview Steakhouse, perched on the 26th floor with wall-to-wall windows. Between the melt-in-your-mouth 8 oz filet, perfectly grilled salmon, and crisp calamari, it was hard to decide which was the star of the meal. But honestly, the view stole the show—watching the falls illuminated as we dined felt surreal.

We capped off the night by watching the 10 PM fireworks right from our suite. Niagara puts on this show nightly in the summer, and having a front-row seat from our room made it unforgettable.

⸻

Day 2: Sunday – Adventure & Indulgence

After a restful night, we headed out for a classic Niagara attraction: the Skylon Tower Observation Deck. Standing 775 feet above the falls, this tower offers sweeping views of all three waterfalls—American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. Inside, there’s also a quirky but fascinating barrel exhibit, showcasing the daring stunts of people who once attempted to survive a plunge over the falls. Spoiler: most didn’t.

Lunch was at Turtle Jack’s Muskoka Grill, a lively spot with hearty Canadian comfort food. Highlights included the blackened chicken and goat cheese salad, the fiery Nashville hot chicken sandwich, shareable chicken nachos, and, of course, sticky toffee pudding for dessert—a theme that would continue throughout our trip.

In the afternoon, we boarded a Niagara City Cruise, the Canadian counterpart to the Maid of the Mist. Ponchos on, cameras ready, we got thrillingly close to the base of Horseshoe Falls. The roar, the mist, and the sheer force of the water were exhilarating—this is hands-down the best way to experience the falls.

Dinner was a highlight: Morton’s Grille Niagara Falls. We started with fresh oysters on the half shell from Prince Edward Island, then moved on to perfectly cooked filets that disappeared from our plates in record time. Dessert? You guessed it—more sticky toffee pudding.

The day wasn’t done yet. At 8 PM, we took on Journey Behind the Falls, descending 125 feet underground into tunnels carved behind Horseshoe Falls. Standing just steps from the thundering cascade, illuminated by colorful nighttime lights, was mesmerizing. The spray and rumble gave us a new appreciation for the power of nature.

We made it back just in time for another round of fireworks over the falls. Two nights, two spectacular shows.

⸻

Day 3: Monday – Farewell to the Falls

Our final morning started with one last look at the sunrise casting golden light over the falls from our suite. It was the perfect way to say goodbye. After breakfast at the hotel, we checked out, feeling refreshed, inspired, and already talking about when we’d come back.

⸻

Final Thoughts

Niagara Falls, Canada, is more than just a quick photo stop—it’s a destination full of world-class dining, thrilling attractions, and jaw-dropping natural wonders. Whether you’re riding a boat into the mist, exploring tunnels behind the cascades, or simply sipping coffee while the falls roar outside your window, it’s a trip that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Pro tip: Don’t skimp on a Fallsview room—it transforms the trip from memorable to magical.