Niagara Falls in 1 Day for Families - Maple syrup, fudge and chocolate tasting at Maple Leaf Place
In Collaboration with Gray Line Toronto/Niagara Falls Canada. Updated on January 28, 2026.
A cozy winter afternoon designed for families: sweet tastings, close-up views of Horseshoe Falls, an optional Journey Behind the Falls visit, then a guided illumination drive through the Winter Festival of Lights with extended free time on family-friendly Clifton Hill. Meet outside the Starbucks by the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Gray Line Toronto/Niagara Falls Canada, inspired by the tour From Niagara: Winter Festival of Lights Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Maple syrup, fudge and chocolate tasting at Maple Leaf Place
- Table Rock viewpoint and optional Journey Behind the Falls
- Guided Winter Festival of Lights drive with Dufferin Islands walk
- Extended family-friendly free time on Clifton Hill
- Seasonal illumination of the Falls (and scheduled fireworks, weather permitting)
Itinerary
Day 1
Afternoon family tour starting at Sheraton Fallsview Hotel and finishing with Clifton Hill evening time. Tour duration: 5 hours.
Meet outside Starbucks — Sheraton Fallsview Hotel (check-in)
Arrive with your e-ticket and photo ID. Your guide will meet the group outside the Starbucks entrance at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel and confirm names before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring printed or digital e-ticket and photo ID for quick check-in; guides verify names quickly to keep to schedule.
- There is sheltered seating inside the Sheraton lobby if small children need to warm up while waiting.
- Strollers are allowed but the guide may ask you to fold them for boarding; keep a lightweight blanket for children (it can be cold by the bus doors).
Drive to Maple Leaf Place — brief transfer
Short climate-controlled drive to the local sweets stop where the tasting awaits.
Tips from local experts:
- Seat children near a window so they can watch the winter scenery and avoid restlessness.
- Keep small snacks or a sippy cup handy for toddlers – transfers are short but helpful between stops.
- If anyone in your group has severe nut allergies, tell the guide ahead of the tasting so they can advise on safe items.
Maple syrup, fudge & chocolate tasting at Maple Leaf Place
A family-friendly tasting: pure maple syrup samples, still-warm fudge bites and artisan chocolates — plus hot drinks to go for kids and adults.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for small sample portions for little ones — staff are used to families and will help portion sweets.
- There are indoor areas to warm up; keep a spare pair of mittens for children after sampling outside displays.
- Buy a sealed maple syrup travel-size bottle as a spill-proof souvenir; it’s easier to pack in cold weather.
Transfer to Table Rock Welcome Centre
Short drive to the Table Rock area, the closest vantage point to Horseshoe Falls.
Tips from local experts:
- Seat the family together on the bus; the guide will point out the best drop-off for stroller convenience.
- Bring a compact umbrella or waterproof layer — falls spray can be heavier in winter if winds change.
- Restroom available at Table Rock Welcome Centre; use it before disembarking if you have small children.
Table Rock — cliff-edge views of Horseshoe Falls
Stand steps from the Horseshoe Falls at Table Rock and take family photos with the roaring backdrop.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep a firm hold on young children near viewing rails; winter surfaces can be slippery — grippy boots recommended.
- There is an indoor observation space at Table Rock to warm up between photos.
- If you need a quieter spot for toddlers, ask the guide for a less-busy vantage point a short walk away from the main viewpoint.
Optional: Journey Behind the Falls (add-on ticket required)
Descend through tunnels to the portals behind Horseshoe Falls for an immersive experience — recommended for children 6+ who can manage stairs and colder, wet conditions.
Tips from local experts:
- This attraction includes stairs and wet surfaces; infants in carriers or children who can climb stairs independently (approx. 6+) are best suited.
- Bring a waterproof cover and extra socks — spray and mist can make lower levels damp.
- If you haven’t prebooked, ask the guide to check on a skip-the-line option — some rates include Journey access.
Free time / Optional Café Market Lunch near the Falls
Choose a warm spot for a family lunch (starter, main, drink if prebooked) or use this time to explore gift shops and warm cafés at the Table Rock / Queen Victoria Park area.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick family-friendly seating with high chairs and ask for kids’ portions — many nearby cafés offer simple grilled sandwiches and soups.
- Warm up inside the Table Rock Welcome Centre if toddlers need a break from the cold; bathrooms and changing facilities are nearby.
- If you prebooked the Market Lunch add-on, advise staff of allergies and request milder options for children.
Drive toward Winter Festival of Lights route (brief rest on the bus)
Board the climate-controlled vehicle for the guided illumination drive; a short rest for kids before evening activities.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a good time for a quick snack or to change a diaper — the bus provides a warm place to regroup.
- If anyone needs motion-sickness remedies near the Falls, take them now before the scenic winding Parkway.
- Remind children to use the restroom; public facilities are limited once the drive begins.
Winter Festival of Lights — guided illumination drive & Dufferin Islands walk
Glide past glowing arches and landmark installations, then take a short family-friendly walk at Dufferin Islands to see nature-themed displays and the chocolate/cocoa trail.
Tips from local experts:
- Dufferin Islands paths can be uneven and icy — bring child-friendly traction (slip-on cleats) and hold hands on bridges.
- There are benches and sheltered spots along the route for quick warm-ups; plan a 5–10 minute warm-up stop if little ones need it.
- Carry a thermos of warm drink for kids; many light displays are stroller-accessible on main paths but some side paths are tight.
Short transfer to Clifton Hill
Quick drop-off on Clifton Hill for extended family-friendly exploration of arcades, cafés and light displays.
Tips from local experts:
- Clifton Hill is lively — set a meeting time with your guide and a landmark (e.g., large ferris wheel sign) in case younger kids wander.
- Arcades and attractions often have family combo tickets; buy at counters that show age/height limits for rides.
- Many indoor venues have changing rooms and family restrooms; head there first if you need a calm space for toddlers.
Clifton Hill — extended free time for family fun and warm treats
Stroll the neon-lit street, try kid-friendly arcades, enjoy hot cocoa at a café, and capture the ‘Canadian winter’ light installations — your guide will confirm the group return location and time.
Tips from local experts:
- Prioritize one or two attractions (e.g., arcade + mini-golf) to avoid overtiring little ones — many venues offer pay-as-you-play options.
- Warm drinks and indoor play areas are good first stops; keep an eye on kids near brightly lit storefronts and street performers.
- If your group needs to leave earlier for bedtime, tell the guide the meeting point and time; they will help arrange a return or taxi if needed.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Transfer, Experience, Attraction, Meal, Outdoor |
