Clifton Hill – The Street of Fun in Niagara Falls!
Clifton Hill is an absolute must-visit when you're in Niagara Falls, Canada. Whether you're coming for the thrill, the family fun, the vibrant nightlife, or just to take in the wild energy, this place delivers entertainment on every corner.
From the moment you step onto Clifton Hill, you're hit with bright neon lights, exciting music, and an atmosphere that screams FUN. It almost feels like Canada’s version of the Vegas strip—but for all ages. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a kid looking for arcade games or an adult looking to relax and enjoy the views with some good food.
🎢 Attractions Some of my personal favorites include:
Niagara SkyWheel – This giant Ferris wheel gives a stunning view of Niagara Falls, especially during sunset or at night when the falls are lit up. Ripley's Believe It or Not! – So many oddities and fun facts, definitely a great place to learn and laugh at the same time. Zombie Attack 6D ride – Insanely immersive and great for families and teens! Movieland Wax Museum, Ghost Blasters, Dinosaur Adventure Golf, and of course, Great Canadian Midway with over 300 arcade games.
🍔 Food & Dining Tons of food options ranging from classic fast food like Burger King and Wendy’s to unique eateries like Kelsey's, BeaverTails, and Boston Pizza. You’ll also find candy shops, ice cream parlors, and even themed snack stands. Prices are a bit higher than average, but you’re paying for the convenience and experience.
🛍️ Souvenirs & Shopping Clifton Hill is packed with gift shops—perfect for grabbing some quirky souvenirs, postcards, or gifts for family back home. There's also a Hershey’s Chocolate World that kids (and adults) absolutely love.
📜 A Bit of History Clifton Hill dates back to the early 1900s and was originally a quiet residential street. Over the years, as Niagara Falls became a more prominent tourist destination, the area evolved into the entertainment hub it is today. In the mid-20th century, it began transforming into a carnival-like strip with wax museums, funhouses, and arcades. By the 1980s and 1990s, it became a full-blown tourist hotspot, with new attractions and developments happening nearly every year.
What’s unique is how Clifton Hill has managed to retain its old-school charm while blending in modern attractions and entertainment. It’s now affectionately known as “The Street of Fun by the Falls.”
🚶♂️ Tips for Visitors: Visit at night! The neon lights and vibe are next level. Buy a Fun Pass – it saves you a good amount of money if you plan to hit several attractions. Bring comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a lot. Weekends and holidays can get extremely busy, so try to go on a weekday if you prefer a bit more space. It’s very family-friendly, but also fun for couples or groups of friends.
Final Thoughts: Clifton Hill is a Canadian treasure—a wild, colorful, exciting, and unforgettable experience. It's not just a place, it's a vibe. Whether you're 5 or 55, you'll leave with a smile on your face and memories that last a lifetime. Can’t recommend it enough when visiting...
Read moreClifton Hill, often referred to as the "Street of Fun," is one of the most vibrant and bustling areas near Niagara Falls. This tourist hub is packed with attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues, making it a must-visit destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
The array of attractions on Clifton Hill is truly impressive. One of the standout features is the Niagara SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding area. It’s particularly stunning at night when the falls are illuminated.
For those who enjoy a bit of fright, the Haunted House and the Nightmares Fear Factory provide thrilling, spine-chilling experiences. Conversely, the Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum offers curious minds a chance to explore oddities and unusual artifacts from around the world.
Families will find endless entertainment with attractions like the Movieland Wax Museum of Stars, where you can pose with lifelike replicas of your favorite celebrities, and the Great Canadian Midway, an extensive arcade featuring games and rides that appeal to both children and adults.
When it comes to dining, Clifton Hill does not disappoint. There’s a wide range of options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants. Popular spots include the Rainforest Cafe, which offers a unique dining experience amid simulated tropical rainstorms and animatronic wildlife, and Boston Pizza, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive menu.
For those with a sweet tooth, there are numerous ice cream parlors, candy shops, and bakeries. Be sure to try the beaver tails, a Canadian pastry that’s a local favorite.
The nightlife on Clifton Hill is equally vibrant. Bars and clubs such as Kelseys Original Roadhouse and the Hard Rock Cafe provide lively music and an upbeat atmosphere. The live entertainment often includes local bands, karaoke, and themed nights, ensuring there's always something happening.
The street itself is a spectacle, especially after dark. The neon lights, music, and the general buzz of excitement create an electric atmosphere that’s infectious. Street performers and live events frequently add to the festive vibe.
Clifton Hill is easily accessible, located just a short walk from Niagara Falls. The area is well-maintained, and the staff at various attractions and restaurants are generally friendly and helpful. While it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, the energy and excitement of the area make it worth navigating through the throngs of people.
Overall, Clifton Hill offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for thrilling adventures, curious explorations, or just a fun night out, Clifton Hill delivers. It’s a place where the excitement of the attractions is matched only by the beauty of its proximity to one of the natural wonders of the world. A visit to Niagara Falls wouldn’t be complete without spending some time on Clifton Hill, making memories that are sure to...
Read moreClifton Hill—nicknamed the “Street of Fun by the Falls”—is Niagara Falls, Ontario’s electrifying tourist hub, full of bright lights, attractions, casual eats, and souvenirs—all just a short walk from the actual Falls
🎉 What You’ll Discover on Clifton Hill
Niagara SkyWheel: A 175 ft climate-controlled Ferris wheel offering breathtaking views of Horseshoe and American Falls, plus the Niagara River. It spins high year‑round and takes about 10–12 minutes .
Thrills & Games:
Niagara Speedway – Canada’s largest elevated go‑kart track
Great Canadian Midway – An arcade packed with games, simulators, and prizes
Dinosaur Adventure Golf, Wizard’s Golf, mirror mazes, haunted houses like Zombie Attack, and Ghost Blasters .
Family‑friendly Fun Pass: Unlimited access to six attractions (SkyWheel, Zombie Attack, Dinosaur Mini‑Golf, wax museums, etc.) for about CAD 39.95 for adults or CAD 26.95 for kids .
Restaurants & Shops: Fast food (Tim Hortons, Wendy’s), sit-down chains (Boston Pizza), themed eateries (Rainforest Café), candy stores, fudge shops, toy stores like Blue Moose Toys, and souvenir shops aplenty .
Nightlife & Entertainment: Casinos (Casino Niagara across Falls Avenue), nightclubs like Rumours, bars, and dinner‑show venues including Greg Frewin Theatre, plus live music and DJs .
Evening Ambience: The street comes alive at night with vibrant lights and music. Don’t miss the nightly Falls Illumination and seasonal fireworks—Clifton Hill offers excellent vantage points.
🚍 Getting There & Practical Tips
Location: At 4960–4967 Clifton Hill, one block from the Falls; easily accessed by WEGO bus or on foot from Table Rock, Fallsview, or Queen Victoria Park .
Parking: Paid lots available; in busy seasons, arriving early or later helps avoid congestion .
Seasonal Hours: Many attractions operate seasonally or alter hours in winter—check online before visiting .
What Locals Say:
“I absolutely loved walking down Clifton Hill … I still love it whenever I visit” “It’s an overpriced dump … for the young” A mix of opinions—but locals agree: it’s designed for tourists and families seeking fun.
🗺️ Suggested Clifton Hill Visit Plan
Start early with the Niagara SkyWheel for morning light over the Falls Play & explore: arcade, mini‑golf, haunted houses—grab a Fun Pass for value. Lunch break at a themed café. Arcade challenge in afternoon. Evening: catch Falls illumination, fireworks above at Casino Niagara or Clifton Hill. Nightcap: enjoy nightlife or a quiet drink on a patio before heading to your nearby hotel—like Travelodge on Clifton Hill.
✅ Should You Visit?
Absolutely—if you're travelling with family or want a high‑energy, tourist-on-the-go vibe. Want something more scenic and peaceful? Stick to Fallsview and Queens Park instead.
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