Niagara Falls Family Day: Boat to the Falls, Lunch & Maple Tasting (June)
A family-friendly, relaxed 1-day tour designed for kids and parents: scenic Niagara Parkway stops, a kid-favourite Clifton Hill SkyWheel ride, an up-close Hornblower boat to Horseshoe Falls, included family-style lunch, and maple/fudge/chocolate tastings. Pickup from Sheraton on the Falls is included.
In Collaboration with Gray Line Niagara Falls/Buffalo USA. Updated on February 13, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Gray Line Niagara Falls/Buffalo USA, inspired by the tour 4-Hour Niagara Falls Boat Tour, Lunch & Maple Syrup Tasting. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Hornblower (Voyage to the Falls) boat ride — up close to Horseshoe Falls
- Family lunch included near Table Rock
- Maple syrup, fudge & chocolate tastings (CFX Chocolatiers)
- Clifton Hill + Niagara SkyWheel short ride
- Scenic Niagara Parkway stops: Floral Clock & Niagara Parks Power Station
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Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided family tour with coach pickup, scenic Niagara Parkway stops, Hornblower boat ride to Horseshoe Falls, included lunch, maple & chocolate tastings, and return to hotel.
Meet & pickup at Sheraton on the Falls (look for Gray Line rep)
Meet your Gray Line Niagara Falls guide and board the coach. Pickup typically takes place outside the main hotel entrance — please have small children’s car seats ready if required.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring the child’s car seat or confirm requirements with the operator in advance — infants and toddlers must occupy their own seat.
- Keep a small snack & water accessible during pickup in case of waiting; there may be a short check-in.
- Ask your guide for a quick restroom stop before boarding — that helps minimize mid-tour bathroom breaks for little ones.
Board coach & short orientation with guide
Coach departure & brief orientation about the day's stops, safety on the boat, and where restrooms and family facilities are located at each stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide to point out the nearest changing facilities at each stop if you need them.
- Reserve seats near the coach doors for faster entry/exit with strollers.
- Confirm the planned order of stops with the guide — itinerary may adjust slightly for attraction timing or traffic.
Clifton Hill quick stop & Niagara SkyWheel ride
A short family-friendly stop in Clifton Hill — ride the Niagara SkyWheel for elevated panoramic views the kids will love.
- Monday12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Thursday12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Friday12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Tips from local experts:
- SkyWheel pods are enclosed and stroller-friendly; fold strollers if space is tight and ask staff for guidance.
- This stop is brief — take a family photo at the base of the wheel rather than exploring all arcades to keep the schedule.
- If your child is anxious about heights, sit near the centre of the pod and point out familiar landmarks to make it fun.
Scenic drive to Niagara Parks Floral Clock — quick photo stop
Drive the scenic Niagara Parkway and stop at the famous Floral Clock for a colorful, stroller-accessible photo opportunity.
- Monday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- The Floral Clock area has paved paths suitable for strollers and short walks for young children.
- Bring a sun hat in June — the clock bed is exposed with little shade.
- If you need a quiet spot, the lawn areas near the clock are good for a short snack or quick rest while kids stretch their legs.
Niagara Parks Power Station — short interpretive stop
A brief look at the restored Niagara Parks Power Station (exterior & viewing areas) — interesting for older kids curious about engineering and hydropower.
- Monday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Keep this stop short if smaller kids are restless — the exterior and viewing platforms are the most family-friendly parts.
- There are benches and shaded areas nearby for stroller parking and toddler snacks.
- If your family enjoys hands-on exhibits, ask the guide whether a supervised short visit inside is available that day.
Arrive Table Rock / Boat boarding orientation
Arrive at the Table Rock/Queen Victoria Park area — coach drops close by and guide gives boarding instructions for Hornblower (Voyage to the Falls).
Tips from local experts:
- Distribute waterproof ponchos to kids before boarding — the boat ride to Horseshoe Falls gets very misty.
- Strollers are not taken onto the boat; fold and store them on the coach or at the designated stow area.
- Use the restroom at Table Rock Welcome Centre before boarding to avoid queues later.
Hornblower Niagara Cruises — Voyage to the Falls (seasonal boat ride)
Experience the iconic boat ride that takes you close to Horseshoe Falls (seasonal; in winter this part is replaced with Journey Behind the Falls). Ponchos are provided; expect thrilling mist and loud roar.
- Monday10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- TuesdayClosed
- WednesdayClosed
- ThursdayClosed
- Friday10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Saturday10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Sunday10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small waterproof camera or phone cover — you’ll get wet, especially at the front of the boat.
- For families, the lower deck has seating and is more sheltered; reserve those seats if you prefer a calmer ride with kids.
- Keep motion-sickness remedies handy for children sensitive to waves; the guide can suggest where to stand for the smoothest ride.
Table Rock Welcome Centre — viewing & short exploration
After the boat, explore Table Rock area for close-up views of Horseshoe Falls, quick souvenirs, and family photos.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Paths close to the falls are stroller-friendly but can be wet — use nonslip shoes and keep the stroller brakes on when stopping.
- There are indoor areas with benches and restrooms where you can warm up or dry off if needed.
- Look for the interactive exhibits inside for a short educational stop for older kids about the geology and history of the falls.
Included family lunch near Table Rock (one main, one side, drink)
Enjoy the included kid-friendly lunch options (poutine, chicken fingers, burger, pizza slice, panini, soup or chili) with a side and a drink — seated and relaxed so kids can recharge.
- Monday11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Tell staff about food allergies — the venue is accustomed to families and can often adapt sides or drinks.
- Ask for a high chair or booster seat if needed; many tables near Table Rock cater to families.
- Use this time to change into dry clothes for kids if they got wet on the boat; most restrooms at Table Rock have changing facilities.
Maple syrup, fudge & chocolate tasting at CFX Chocolatiers
Sample local maple syrup, house-made fudge, and handcrafted chocolates — a quick, sugary delight that kids and parents both enjoy.
- Monday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- This tasting is short — parents may want to keep small children close as counters can be busy.
- Ask staff for small sample sizes for picky eaters so everyone can try without wasting food.
- Buy resealable packages if you plan to take samples onto the coach for a later snack.
Whirlpool Rapids viewpoint — nature stop
Short stop to see the powerful Whirlpool Rapids from a safe, family-friendly vantage point along the Niagara Parkway.
Tips from local experts:
- Paths to many viewpoints are paved but can include steps; bring a lightweight stroller you can manage over short curbs.
- Keep children close to railing areas — the currents are powerful and safety is paramount.
- This is a great spot for a calming nature moment if kids need a quiet break after the excitement of the boat.
Drive-by Queenston Heights (scenic) and return to hotel
Scenic drive past Queenston Heights (guide commentary) as the coach returns to downtown Niagara Falls and drops you off at the original pickup hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- If your child naps easily in transit, this drive is a good time to let them rest before arrival.
- Strollers will be available right at the coach for a quick, stroller-friendly exit at drop-off.
- If you want photos at Queenston Heights, mention it to the guide — they can sometimes make a very short photo stop if time allows.
Drop-off at Sheraton on the Falls
Return and drop-off at your hotel. Tour concludes — ask your guide for local suggestions if you plan to continue exploring.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm with your guide where exactly the coach will stop for the smoothest exit with strollers and young children.
- Collect any souvenirs purchased during the day and double-check you have all children’s belongings (ponchos, jackets).
- If you want extra family photos, ask the guide for a recommended nearby low-crowd viewpoint for sunset pictures later in the evening.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 10 |
| Total Places | 10 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Transfer, Attraction, Outdoor, Culture, Experience, Meal, Shopping |
Why this experience
Your day begins early at the Sheraton with hotel pickup, setting a relaxed pace from the start. You ride the SkyWheel at Clifton Hill—a 175-foot observation wheel where the kids get their first sweeping view of the landscape, pointing out the mist rising from the gorge and the bridge spanning the river. From there, the coach takes you to the Floral Clock, a working timepiece made entirely of 16,000 seasonal flowers, where your guide shares the story of how it's replanted three times a year. It's the kind of quirky Canadian detail that makes kids remember a trip.
By mid-morning, you're at the Hornblower cruise terminal, boarding a catamaran that takes you within meters of Horseshoe Falls. The boat pitches and rocks in the churning water; the roar is deafening in the best way, and kids feel the spray hit their faces. At Table Rock, you disembark and walk to the viewing area, where the falls tower above you in full, undeniable grandeur. Lunch comes next—a shared meal that breaks up the day and lets everyone recharge. Then comes the maple and chocolate tasting at CFX Chocolatiers, where your guide explains how maple syrup is made and kids (and adults) sample dark chocolate with maple cream, fudge, and local specialties. The final stop at Whirlpool Rapids shows them a different kind of water drama—a natural vortex where the river changes direction, creating a churning spectacle.
Before you go
- Best time: Summer (June to August), when school breaks allow flexible family travel and water temperatures are warmest. The Hornblower boat runs year-round, but summer offers the most comfortable experience for extended outdoor time.
- Budget: Check the booking widget for current tour pricing. Lunch and the maple tasting are typically included; budget extra for optional attractions (Journey Behind the Falls, additional snacks) and gratuities.
- Difficulty: Easy — this is a coach-based tour with minimal walking. The boat ride is active but safe; kids 5+ generally enjoy it without concern.
- What to bring: Casual clothes, waterproof jackets (the boat spray is real), sturdy shoes or water shoes, sunscreen, and a light snack. Bring a camera—kids often want to document their own moments.
- Getting there: Hotel pickup from your Sheraton accommodation; if you're staying elsewhere, confirm meeting location with the operator. The coach departs at 09:15 and returns by 15:15.
- Accessibility: The coach is fully accessible with wheelchair lifts and seating. The Hornblower boat includes accessible boarding and seating; Journey Behind the Falls (if selected) has elevator access. Confirm mobility needs when booking.
Frequently asked questions
Is the boat ride scary for young kids? The Hornblower is a stable, modern catamaran; the rocking is gentle compared to older boats. Kids ages 5+ typically love the sensation and the spray. Babies and very young toddlers may find the noise startling, so consider ages 3+ as the comfortable threshold.
Can we skip the maple tasting if we're not interested? The tour is designed as an all-inclusive package, so you can't skip activities. However, the maple tasting is brief (20-30 minutes) and designed to appeal to all ages—kids often enjoy the chocolate more than the syrup itself.
How much walking is involved? Very minimal—mostly between the coach and activity entrances. The longest walk is at Table Rock to the viewing area (about 5 minutes). Families with strollers can manage most of the route; confirm accessibility details when booking if you're traveling with a toddler.
What if my child gets tired or bored? The tour is paced to include variety—coach, wheel, boat, viewing, lunch, tasting—so energy changes are built in. The total time is roughly 6 hours with an included meal, which is manageable for most children ages 5-12. Bring a tablet or activity as a backup.
Complete your trip in Niagara Falls
Combine your family boat day with other Niagara Falls experiences designed for children and parents.
- Winter Festival of Lights (Family) — Return in winter for the magical Festival of Lights drive, a completely different seasonal experience.
- Family-Friendly 2-Day Summer Itinerary — Extend your time with a second day of family activities across both sides of the falls.
- Practical Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary — Plan a longer trip with a mix of iconic sights and quieter family-paced exploration.
Browse all Niagara Falls itineraries at TheNextGuide.
Last updated: April 2026
