Niagara-on-the-Lake with Kids
 

Everything I've been reading about hotel accommodations at Niagara Falls is pointing me more towards NOTL; however, we will be traveling to the area this July with two children, ages 10 and 12. Are there any appropriate accommodations there for people traveling with children?

ragdoll
The only thing IMHO for your kids to do in NOTL is to take the whirlpool jetboat to Niagara Falls. I found NOTL cute to walk main street, do some shopping and have lunch but other than that it was really boring and I'm old, I can't imagine young people liking it unless you like theatre and are going to the Shaw. I recommend it for a daytrip but not to stay.

We always stay at Embassy Suites with Fallsview room. They offer some good packages that include a cooked to order breakfast and $40.00 off your dinner. Check it out: http://www.embassysuitesniagara.com/
Also, you're within walking distance to the Falls and Maid of the Mist

I agree with CD. I know my nieces would be bored in NOTL - they are 12 and 16.

What are you reading about the hotels in Niagara Falls that are turning you away from the idea of staying there? If we know exactly what the issues are, we should be able to find a hotel to fit your needs.

My last stay (2007), I stayed at the Days Inn Near the Falls (not "By the Falls"). It was $89 per night with a king size bed plus $10 parking per day. It's located at the top of Clifton Hill which unless they're real young, the kids should enjoy (it's like a carnival midway). It's less than a 10 minute walk to the Niagara Parkway and the Falls.

Thanks to you both. At this point I'm leaning toward Embassy Suites. I guess we were looking to something less congested. My husband is a bit of a hotel snob and I don't want to hear him complain. NOTL sounded good for a couples getaway but not for kids. I also just realized we were planning to be there July 1 which is Canada day. This is making me rethink the whole trip.

The only way to see Niagara Falls without "congestion" is to go in winter. But that means you miss the Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist, etc. It is always busy and crowded.

The best way to see Niagara Falls is to embrace the busy-ness of it, otherwise you won't enjoy it. Having said that, you can easily take a break from it during your stay by taking a day trip to NOTL, hiking the gorge, or even preparing a basket and heading over to Goat Island for a relaxing picnic lunch.

My first trip, I listened to all the "it's tacky", "it's a tourist trap", etc. and figured I only needed a day and a half to "see the falls and get the heck out of there" as I'm not big on crowds. During my 1-1/2 days there, I spent time just sitting on table rock watching the water fall, and by the time I left, I realized that if you let yourself get swept away by the water and the people and the midway, you'll love Niagara Falls for what it is - instead of hating it for what it isn't.

Listen to the great advice here. NOTL is mostly shopping. It's quaint and cute, and a great place for a romantic getaway.
For families, definately stay in Niagara Falls.
There is nothing like standing at the railing right where the water tumbles over the falls. July 1st will be very crowded.

There is a great alternative for you.... about two miles from the falls along the Niagara parkway is the Great Wolf Lodge...an excellent choice for that age group and away from the tacky clutter... also near the Butterfly conservatory, Bird attraction, and about 15 minutes from NOTL... seems perfect for that picky papa... have fun!

Good advice, but the falls themselves are still the biggest draw. Nothing like walking along by the railing and getting sprayed and watching the falls. Or going on the Maid of the Mist.

I'm another who read all the "tacky" and "touristy" reviews and thought a quick look would be sufficient.

I agree, especially with kids, withs staying within walking distance of the Falls. There's a LOT to see and do.

But, if you want quiet, away from the Falls, but not NOTL, have a look at www.southlandinginn.com which is midway between the Falls and NOTL. Owned by a wonderful husband and wife, this is a very nice property. Depending on your dates, you can park for free in Queenston and use the People Mover to go back and forth to the Falls (you'll probably want to use the People Mover daily, anyway, for exploring the Falls area.)

agajohnson

You are not permitted to advertise here.

NOTL is such a fun place to bring kids. It’s impossible for them to get bored there with boat rides, fun food options and other attractions.

Cosimo Commisso shares the must-try itinerary for when you only have two days in this Canadian hot spot - http://cosimocommisso.ca/48-hours-in...osimo-commisso