Niagara Falls and Toronto Downtown City Tour

Magnificent Two-Day Adventure Combining Niagara Falls and Toronto Highlights

For those eager to experience the natural wonder of Niagara Falls alongside the energetic pulse of downtown Toronto, this $278 tour offers a well-rounded journey. Spanning approximately 2 days, the trip covers iconic sights, immersive activities, and scenic views, making it ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of nature, culture, and city life. The tour includes an overnight stay in the Fallsview District, allowing ample time to enjoy the illuminated waterfalls and seasonal fireworks. With a mobile ticket, the experience is straightforward and flexible, though the admission to specific attractions such as the Skylon Tower and Hornblower Cruise is charged separately.

This tour suits those who want a rundown of Ontario’s top attractions without the hassle of planning, as guides lead the way through well-curated stops. Keep in mind, the tour is designed for most travelers, but it involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so comfortable footwear is advised. This package provides a good value for a detailed exploration of both Niagara Falls and Toronto, especially for first-time visitors or those wanting a structured itinerary.

Key Points

• Two-day tour covering Niagara Falls and Toronto city highlights
• Includes a night in the Fallsview District with illuminated waterfall views
• Skylon Tower offers 360-degree scenic views of the falls
• Seasonal Hornblower boat cruise provides up-close waterfall encounters
• Additional stops feature the Niagara Adventure Theater, Little Canada, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Casa Loma
• Optional activities like the Skylon Tower, Hornblower Cruise, and Toronto City Cruise are available at extra cost

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The adventure begins early at 9005 Leslie St, Richmond Hill, with a 7:00 am departure. The total tour lasts around 2 days, giving travelers a chance to see both the natural spectacle of Niagara Falls and the urban charm of Toronto comfortably within this timeframe. The tour ends back at the initial meeting point, making logistics simple for participants.

Exploring Niagara Falls: From the Theater to the Night Lights

The first day centers on the Niagara Falls experience, starting at the Niagara Adventure Theater. Here, the “Niagara: Miracles, Myths & Magic” IMAX movie sets the scene with captivating visuals and stories. Although the theater ticket costs CAD 16, this adds a layer of context that enhances understanding of the falls’ history and myths.

Next, the Skylon Tower offers a 50-minute visit to its 360-degree observation deck, where the panoramic views of the waterfalls and surrounding scenery are breathtaking. The admission ticket to the tower is extra, but the vantage point is a highlight, especially on clear days.

A 20-minute cruise aboard the Hornblower boat (seasonal May-Nov) passes through the dense water mist, bringing guests close enough to hear the roar and see the cascading water from a unique perspective. The $49 fee for the cruise is optional but highly recommended for thrill seekers and photo enthusiasts.

Immersive Wine Tasting and Evening Spectacle

A 40-minute visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake provides an opportunity to sample Canada’s renowned ice wine, celebrated for its sweetness and richness. This tasting is free and highlights the region’s viticultural excellence.

As night falls, the Falls are illuminated with vibrant colors, creating a magical scene. Travelers can choose to enjoy the fireworks display (seasonal) or head to Clifton Hill to ride the Ferris Wheel, which offers an excellent nighttime view of the illuminated waterfalls and the bustling city lights.

Transition to Toronto: From Aquariums to Iconic Landmarks

On the second day, the tour departs early for downtown Toronto, where the first stop is the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. Covering 135,000 square feet, this attraction hosts thousands of aquatic animals and offers a fascinating glimpse into marine life. The admission costs CAD 57, but the experience of walking through the aquatic tunnels and viewing the exhibits is memorable.

Following the aquarium, the “Little Canada” attraction allows visitors to explore a condensed version of Canada’s most iconic architecture and landmarks. This one-hour experience is a detailed and personal way to appreciate Canada’s culture and heritage in miniature.

Toronto City Highlights and Castle Tour

Guided by a professional guide, the tour then takes guests past exterior views of the CN Tower, the Provincial Council, and the University of Toronto, offering a quick yet insightful overview of Toronto’s urban landscape. The City Cruise on Lake Ontario (seasonal May-Oct) is a relaxing one-hour boat ride that showcases Toronto’s waterfront skyline from the water.

Post-lunch, the group visits Casa Loma, a medieval-style castle perched on a hill. Known for its unique architecture and appearance in Hollywood movies, the exterior visit takes about 30 minutes and offers a taste of Toronto’s historic charm.

Transport, Guides, and Accommodation

The air-conditioned vehicle and professional guide/driver make the journey comfortable and informative. The overnight stay in the Fallsview District ensures that travelers enjoy the nighttime illumination of the waterfalls, with the possibility of seasonal fireworks adding extra spectacle. The tour includes one night of accommodation, simplifying planning.

Optional Activities and Extra Costs

While many stops are included in the package, several activities carry additional fees. For instance, the Skylon Tower is CAD 23, the Hornblower Cruise is CAD 49, and the Ripley’s Aquarium costs CAD 57. The Little Canada experience is CAD 45, and a Toronto City Cruise is CAD 37. These optional activities allow customization but should be budgeted for separately.

Practicalities: Meeting Point and Booking Details

The tour begins at 7:00 am from Richmond Hill and is offered by First Express Travel & CoachCanada. Confirmation arrives at the time of booking, and the tour accommodates up to 55 travelers, ensuring a lively group atmosphere. The mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward, and the tour’s schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing without rushing.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour is non-refundable and cannot be amended once booked, so planning carefully is recommended. Some attractions, like the cruise and tower, require extra payment if guests wish to include them. Participants should consider weather conditions, as outdoor activities like the cruise and scenic views depend on good weather.

Final Thoughts on the Niagara Falls and Toronto Tour

This 2-day tour offers an ample mix of natural beauty and urban exploration. The inclusion of a night in the Fallsview District and the opportunity to see illuminated waterfalls and fireworks make it especially appealing. The stops at Niagara’s key attractions, combined with Toronto’s cultural highlights, provide a well-rounded experience.

While the tour covers many sights, it’s important to budget for optional activities and be prepared for a busy schedule. It suits travelers who want an organized, guided experience with plenty of iconic sights, especially those new to Ontario or looking for a rundown in a short time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour in total?
The tour lasts approximately 2 days, starting early in the morning and ending back at the initial meeting point.

Are all attractions included in the price?
No, many attractions such as the Skylon Tower, Hornblower Cruise, Ripley’s Aquarium, Little Canada, and the Toronto City Cruise have optional extra costs.

Where does the tour start and finish?
The tour begins at 9005 Leslie St, Richmond Hill at 7:00 am and concludes back at the same location.

Is accommodation included?
Yes, the tour includes 1 night of accommodation in the Fallsview District.

Can I see Niagara Falls at night?
Yes, the tour offers the chance to enjoy the waterfalls illuminated with vibrant lights, plus seasonal fireworks.

What is the recommended clothing?
Comfortable footwear is advised due to walking at stops like Niagara and Toronto. Outdoor activities also mean dressing appropriately for the weather.

Are meals provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase meals during stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; however, the physical demands of walking and outdoor activities should be considered for younger children.

What makes this tour different from others?
This tour offers a combination of natural wonder and city exploration with an overnight stay in Niagara, plus options for viewing fireworks and illuminated waterfalls.