For parents wondering whether bringing the grandparents along on a future getaway is a good idea, the research suggests it’s time to book that trip! In a 2024 survey of North American families, 74 per cent of respondents who had previously taken a multi-generational vacation remained excited by the idea of extended family getaways. If expanding your getaway gang to include an older generation is on your travel to-do list, here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure guests of all ages have a great time on your next visit to Niagara!
Visiting attractions that help children better understand what life was like for previous generations is a wonderful way to inspire conversations between the young and old. The Niagara Parks Power Station’s immersive exhibits, restored artifacts, and interactive storytelling will spark kids’ curiosity about life before the flip of a switch! Take the guided tour to catch The Tesla coil, a marvel of early 20th-century technology, as it demonstrates the raw, captivating force of high-voltage electricity through a mesmerizing light show that dances through the air. Trying on a replica uniform from the War of 1812, or feeling the heft of an ancient musket at the Niagara Falls History Museum, is an engaging way to encourage conversations about family members who may have fought for their country at a different time.
It’s not surprising that some of the more low-tech games at Niagara’s arcades are also some of the most popular amongst players. Games like shooting hoops, ring toss, and coin stacking offer a fun way to level the playing field for younger gamers with their elders. Visit arcades like Adventure City, the Great Canadian Midway and Niagara Falls Fun Zone to get some friendly family competition going!
Being on their best behaviour for older family members can feel like a big ask for little kids. Reward those marvellous manners with some time for splashing, screaming, and shenanigans at one of Niagara’s three indoor waterparks. Whether they enjoy a well-earned rest in their room, pull up a lounge chair and watch the kids have a blast, or make a splash themselves, grandparents will fit right in at Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, Great Wolf Lodge, or Waves Indoor Waterpark.
No one wants a family getaway to feel like a past trip put on repeat! Luckily, Niagara has plenty of activity options to ensure no one feels they’re being served up a “been there, done that” itinerary. The all-new Niagara Takes Flight attraction, which just opened this past fall, is Ontario’s first-ever flying theatre experience. Both kids and kids-at-heart will love taking flight on an adventure that blends storytelling, motion, stunning aerial vistas, music, and special effects into an immersive 30-minute experience showcasing the Niagara River corridor through ancient rock formations, historic battle sites, and breathtaking scenery. As minimal walking is required, this is an excellent option for older family members with more limited mobility.
While the kids may have endless energy, older family members may appreciate an attraction or two that offers a little break from the hustle and bustle of your family getaway. Niagara attractions that showcase nature are an excellent solution. Options like the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory, Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse, and Bird Kingdom offer little feet plenty of space to roam and explore, while older adults can enjoy a slower pace, stop for breaks, and really take it all in.
Whether it’s bonding over some of Canada’s best butter tarts, comparing preferred picks while browsing the aisles of a retro candy shop, swapping spoonfuls of favourite flavours at a popular ice cream parlour, or showing their seniors just how delicious a vegan doughnut can be, there’s something extra special about the sharing of treats between the old and the young.
From Vegas-style magic and a fun show celebrating Canadian music at the Greg Frewin Theatrical Centre, to family-friendly circus, ventriloquist, and mentalism shows at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre in St. Catharines, Niagara’s live arts lineup this winter offers interesting productions that will inspire applause from audience members of all ages.
Niagara is home to a heartwarming roster of holiday activities guaranteed to help everyone in your gang have a little festive fun. Events to consider timing your trip around include:
Snapping some family photos to frame upon your return home is a fantastic way to remind everyone of the fun times shared together. For a photo with a bit of extra pizazz, book a session at Allways Antique Photo or Ripley’s Selfie Studios. Several Niagara Falls attractions also offer photography packages that allow visitors to purchase candid photos of their group enjoying the experience. For those who prefer to take their own pictures, Niagara is overflowing with incredible options for your photo’s backdrop.
Show every generation a new way to winter in Niagara, experiencing the area’s attractions, historic sites, outdoor activities, and events. Be sure to check out @visit_niagara on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for additional trip inspiration and to learn about upcoming events. Then, scroll through suggestions for local accommodations and restaurants to round out your trip to Niagara.
#myniagara