Dufferin Islands — Local services in City of Niagara Falls

I went to Dufferin Island in May 2020 and it was amazing Below is my historic research about Dufferin Islands: Dufferin Islands is a group of three small islands located in the Niagara River in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The islands are situated between the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls and offer stunning views of the Falls and the surrounding area. The islands are connected by bridges and footpaths, making them easily accessible to visitors. Dufferin Islands were originally formed by the accumulation of silt and sand at the mouth of the Niagara River. The islands were named after Lord Dufferin, the Governor General of Canada from 1872-1878. In the late 19th century, the islands were transformed into a park and became a popular destination for tourists visiting Niagara Falls. The park is home to a variety of vegetation, including trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. It provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city and offers a tranquil place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Niagara Falls. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the footpaths, sit on a bench, or have a picnic on the lush lawns. In addition to its natural beauty, Dufferin Islands is also a popular spot for birdwatching. The islands are home to a diverse range of bird species, including ducks, geese, and herons. Birdwatchers can spot many of these species from the footpaths or the viewing platforms on the islands. In the summer, Dufferin Islands is a hub of activity with many events and activities taking place. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, and special events, such as the annual butterfly release. The park is also a popular location for weddings and other special events. Despite its popularity, Dufferin Islands remains a quiet and peaceful oasis in the heart of Niagara Falls. Visitors can escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty and serenity of the islands, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Niagara Falls. Whether you are a nature lover, a birdwatcher, or just looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Dufferin Islands is the perfect...

🌿 What Is It?

A serene 10-acre cluster of artificial islands, linked by wooden footbridges and winding trails—crafted in the early 1900s during the construction of the Ontario Power Generating station . Once industrially created, they now provide a peaceful nature oasis amid the tourist bustle.

🌼 Highlights & Activities

Nature escapes: Explore self-guided wooded paths, spot wildlife like ducks, herons, bass, squirrels, and songbirds .

Picnic spots: Bring grab-and-go items from Table Rock Market and enjoy a riverside lunch at scenic picnic tables .

Wildlife-friendly: Efforts include fish stocks, bird boxes, indigenous plantings, and feeding stations .

Winter lights: From mid-November to mid‑January, it lights up as part of the Winter Festival of Lights, Canada’s largest festival of its kind . Walk or drive through sparkling displays.

🕰️ History Snapshot

Originally the site of Clarke Hill/Cynthia Islands, with mills dating to 1794–96 .

Transformed with fill during early 1900s power plant development; modified in 1918 to restore a natural feel .

Made publicly accessible after Niagara Parks Commission took over; the old “burning springs” historical site is still nearby .

🚗 Logistics

Free entry; vehicle parking is metered (around CAD 5–8/hour), or part of the Niagara Parks Adventure Pass .

Partially accessible via trails & bridges; wear comfortable shoes .

Location: Just south of Table Rock Centre, between the Floral Showhouse and Rapidsview parking lot on Niagara Parkway .

✅ Ideal For

Nature lovers seeking a quiet retreat near the Falls.

Families enjoying wildlife watching, scenic strolls, or picnics.

Visitors during winter eager to experience the Festival of...

There is never enough time to explore everything in Niagara Falls or in the Niagara Region, but if you have a bit of time or need a calming experience after all the hubbub, make this your destination.

What appears like a loop around several islands caused by a meandering river actually came about in the early 1900s. It was a little appendice to the river which was transformed into a natural area.

Previously a rowdy party destination known as the Front (late 1800s). It became a popular swimming and paddleboating destination for decades, when the 10 acres area was rehabilitated into parklands, but these forms of entertainment were also banned for safety reasons.

Now a naturalized area full of trails and discovery, with washrooms, ample parking and picnic tables. There are many points of access to the islands (bridges and footpaths) for you to explore indigenous vegetation or observe birdboxes and bird feeding station. It makes taking elder family members in an unspoiled nature setting as easy as possible. Bring binoculars.

This venue hosts a Winter...