A gathering place for centuries, the Niagara region has a rich and layered history, from its Indigenous roots to its crucial role in Canada’s formation and the rise of industry. As a key steward of this important heritage, Niagara Parks is committed to sharing these important stories and preserving their legacy for generations to come.
At Niagara Parks, you can visit several historic sites that bring the past to life. Curiosity is calling, and Niagara is the place Ìýto learn more. Here’s a look at some of the remarkable people, places and moments in time that are waiting to be discovered this summer.
Journey Behind the Falls
Begin your adventure by learning more about the history of The Falls — the Horseshoe, American and Bridal Veil — at Journey Behind the Falls, located, at the Table Rock Welcome Centre. There, you will findÌý new exhibits that delve into the geological formation of The Falls and the Niagara Gorge, the area’s first Indigenous inhabitants and their relationship to the cataracts, and the rise of tourism in the Niagara region.
Did you know that the development of Niagara Falls as a tourism destination included the construction of a staircaseÌý into the Niagara Gorge in 1832? You can learn more about that and the 130-year-old tunnels that weave their way behind the thunderous Horseshoe Falls during your visit. Once you reach the observation deck, you’ll witness of one-fifth of the world’s fresh water crashing down in front of you.Ìý
Mom and child at Journey Behind the Falls
ContributedThe Niagara Parks Power Station
The first major power plant on the Canadian side of the Niagara River, built in the early 1900s, the Niagara Parks Power Station has been beautifully restored and now features educational exhibits, historic artifacts and interactive storytelling — making it a must-visit destination day and night.
As you move through the space, you’ll feel history come alive thanks to the brand-new bilingual audio tour that dives deeper into Niagara’s incredible story of power.Ìý
After discovering the tales of the many workers who kept the plant working for more than a century, you can stop and enjoy the unmistakable and melodic buzz of the larger-than-life Tesla coil, a marvel of early 20th century technology that continues to wow visitors with it’s extensive music library. They even have a bilingual audio tour to help guide you through the space.
Inside, on the generator floor, a multimedia show titled Currents immerses visitors in a story of sound and light, bringing the space to life in an unforgettable way.
The War of 1812
A pivotal moment in North American history , the War of 1812 played a significant role in the story of Niagara Falls. Step back in time and learn more about this period at Old Fort Erie, which was besieged by American forces during the war. ReenactorsÌý bring the heart pounding story to life and explain why this national historic site is also known as the location of Canada’s bloodiest battlefield.
Located just off the Niagara Parkway in Queenston is the Laura Secord É«É«À²stead, home of Canada’s most-famous heroine of the War of 1812, Laura Secord. The historic site chronicles the journey of this courageous woman, who walked 32-kilometresÌý to warn the British of an impending American attack.
While you’re there, be sure to spend time in the park itself. Located high atop the Niagara Escarpment, Queenston Heights features scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, a splash pad and freshly paved pickleball and tennis courts.Ìý
Be sure to stop for a meal at the Queenston Heights Restaurant, which has been welcoming guests since the early 1900s. The current building and outdoor patio were built in 1939, and the restaurant is Feast On certified for using, serving and celebrating Ontario produced ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, meats and wines grown from vineyards a few kilometres away.Ìý
Visitors to Niagara Parks can also spend time at McFarland House, a home that served as a military hospital during the War of 1812 by both Americans and British troops. Today, it offers tours and features a glass-enclosed tearoom serving freshly baked scones and delicate desserts with traditional afternoon tea. You can also enjoy a self-guided historical tour of the Battle of Chippawa site. The 121-hectare preserved battlefieldÌý includes a memorial cairn dedicated to the regiments and First Nations warriors who fought there on July 5, 1814. Indigenous participation in the War of 1812 is honoured at the Landscape of Nations Memorial in Queenston Heights Park, the location of the first major battle of the conflict. The memorial is dedicated to the Haudenosaunee (Six Nations) Confederacy and Indigenous allies that participated in the war. It also commemorates a historic reconciliation ceremony held on the site in 1815, which restored peace among the First Nations who fought on opposing sides.
More historic sites
Another point of interest is the Mackenzie Printery, located in Queenston, this old print shop sits inside the restored home of publisher, rebellion leader and É«É«À²â€™s first mayor, William Lyon Mackenzie. It chronicles 500 years of printing history and also houses the oldest printing press in Canada.
The best way to experience all Niagara Parks has to offer this summer is with its Adventure Pass Plus. Valued at $109, the pass includes admission to Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara Parks Power Station + Tunnel (including at night), several other attractions and four historic sites: Fort Erie, Mackenzie Printery, McFarland House and the Laura Secord É«É«À²stead. The pass also provides three-day access to the Falls Incline Railway, WEGO Bus system and Park and Ride to the Falls.
Get your pass and discover all the reasons why curiosity is calling in Niagara Parks. Learn more at .
