Hi all,
We are going to Niagara Falls (Canadian side) over Memorial weekend. We will be there for 48 hours from around 11am Saturday through Monday at noon.

(1) Strategy to beat the crowds: What is the best strategy to minimize waiting in lines? does it help to buy tickets in advance? arrive when they open?

I assume we do not need to buy one of the package full-day tours (unless they are fabulous and help bypass lines):

(2) Itinerary for active family (11 & 12 year old active boys) - any tips?

Top priorities:

• Maid of the Mist
• Cave of the Winds
• Goat Island

Other options: Old Fort, Niagara Gorge trail? (how many hours does the trail take for active people?)

Thanks so much! --- Musetta

You posted this on the cruise forum, which may or may not be the right place for it.
I personally would avoid visiting Niagara Falls on any long weekend. The crowd would be unbearable.
If you are driving over from the US side, or going back to the US side afterward, the line up at the border crossing alone will be more than painfully long.

Thanks so much for this feedback!

Moved to Canada forum

The big crowds at Niagara come after schools let out... relax and enjoy your stay...

Thanks so much, Gary! Excited to see the falls