A week ago I asked you for your tips for traveling with a toddler. I’m proud to say that we did it!! WE DID IT! And, best part, it was great:)
I have lived in Ontario for the majority of my life (my teenage/university years were spent in Saskatchewan). One of my favouite places to visit is Niagara Falls. My husband and I have spent almost every anniversary there, discovering our favourite wines (Reif Estate Winery is our hands-down favourite- try the Shiraz), taking in the sites, and wandering around the Falls.
When it came time to take The Boy on his first non-family overnight trip, Niagara Falls was the obvious choice. There is so much to see, even more to do, and no shortage of fun to be had for young children. The Boy adored his first trip- he never stopped point, asking “Wha Dat?”, clapping and smiling.
If you are planning a trip to Niagara Falls with a toddler or young child, here our my “must do”s:
1) Book a one bedroom suite-
We stayed at the Doubletree Fallsview Hotel, which happens to be the hotel we have stayed at every time we have gone to Niagara Falls. What do we love about it? It is super close to the Falls, but just off the main hotel strip, meaning a bit more reasonable price. Extra bonus? It has a salt-water pool and an Aveda spa on premises.
2) Eat with a view-
Our first stop was lunch and we chose the amazing Elements on the Falls. We were so excited to be seated right at the window with a perfect view of the Falls. It was simply stunning to enjoy our lunch (I had the Bison Burger and HIGHLY recommend it!! The Boy loved his chicken fingers).
While the food was delish, it was the view out the window that made all the difference. The Boy sat, stared, pointed, clapped, and squealed while watching the thunderous waterfall. It was the best way to focus his attention and get through our meal.
Tip: Make a reservation to ensure quick seating!
3) Visit Pop & Lolly’s-
After our lunch, we walked across the hall to visit Pop & Lolly’s…how could we not? This candy store practically begs you to come in. The Boy was in candy heaven, but I have to be honest in saying that his dad and I were even more excited. Pop & Lolly’s boasts a plethora of delicious treats, but the highlights are the create-your-own Chocolate bars and the handmade candy treats.
We made a decedent milk chocolate bar, choosing to fill it with
coconut, mini M&M’s, mini jujubes and mini marshmallows. Cannot tell you how amazing it tasted- it was devoured within 5 minutes of leaving the store.
But, the highlight of a visit to Pop & Lolly’s is watching the handmade candy demonstration. Our two Lolliologists (look it up, it’s a real word!), Alex and Lori,dazzled 
the crowd with their candy making skills. It was amazing to see the dedication and precision that went into the work- even more amazing to taste it afterward. The Boy went nuts for the freshly made grape candy, constantly sticking his tongue out for another taste. We ended up spending over an hour in the store, exploring and tasting all of its delicious offerings. It is a must-visit for any family!
4) Hang out by the Falls-
What would a trip to Niagara Falls be like without a nice, long walk by The Falls? Having seen
them before, it was fun to watch The Boy’s face as he heard the thunderous roar of the water or felt the mist on his face. He was in awe of the power of Niagara Falls, although I am pretty sure he was more interested in how to get into that water…
We spent the majority of our time hanging out by the water and enjoying the sites and sounds of Niagara Falls, meeting some wonderful families from all over the world. Best part? It was hours of free entertainment for our boy!
Glad you had fun!
Wow sounds like you guys had a great time!!! I felt like I was there.. definitely on my to-do list when it’s my turn :o)
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo