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The Top 10 Most Popular Arcade Games at the Great Canadian Midway

April 12, 2024 ntritchew Leave a comment

Reading Time: 6 minutes -

The Great Canadian Midway on Clifton Hill is one of the largest arcades in Canada and boasts over 300 interactive games to choose from. With so many options, where should someone start playing???

To answer this, we asked our Great Canadian Midway technicians which Midway games are the most popular in terms of customer requests and frequent use.

Scroll through to see the top 10 results below in no particular order.

Carnival Wheel

This dynamic multi-spin game draws a crowd. Its beautiful dynamic wheel and brilliant Lights can be seen from across the room, and will have you coming back for more.

Our exciting Carnival Wheel redemption game brings the Carnival to you. Light up your day with the reinvented wheel with its vivid coloured lights, animations, music, and, most importantly…Fantastic Replay!

The Carnival Wheel provides bursting graphics with a spinning wheel that uses high-end LED panels that will undoubtedly capture your attention.

Bonus spins can include 2X and 3X wheels, which multiplies the progressive jackpot by three.

Whack N’ Win

This midway-style redemption game is simple to play, challenging, and rewarding. Whack the sensor patch with the foam mallet to enter the Win Zone. It’s all about skill, not muscle!

Do you think you’ve got what it takes? Whack N’ Win is a fun game for players of all ability levels, and it’s one of the top games at the Great Canadian Midway family amusement center.

Rocket Wheel

Help Wile E. Coyote catch the Road Runner in The Looney Toons Rocket Wheel game.

The Rocket Wheel is a genuine skills game where you can test your capabilities by swiftly pressing down on a plunger mechanism, which in turn revolves a big wheel. There are no motors or brakes to govern where the wheel stops; just your strength and gravity dictate where the wheel stops!

The goal is to precisely time the rotation in order to win as many tickets as possible. If the player successfully captures five “Roadrunners,” a special bonus feature allows for many more tickets. All victories are shown on the centre screen, featuring scenes from the popular cartoon series!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIqnlSZtt3g

Connect 4 Hoops

Shoot! Score! Connect 4! What’s better than a good old-fashioned game of Connect 4? How about adding a sporty, larger-than-life twist by playing with basketballs!

One or two players shoot baskets and watch as their basketballs magically fall into place on the LED-projected grid. The first player to align four balls horizontally, vertically, or diagonally on the augmented reality playfield wins!

Down the Clown

KNOCK EM’ OUT! Tossing balls at different-sized clown targets for points will put your arm to the test. The more clowns you take out, the more tickets you get!

Down the Clown Arcade supports solo and dual-player modes. Individual players can compete for the highest score! This interactive ball throw game is fun for the whole family. Down the Clown should be on your list of games to try at the Great Canadian Midway family entertainment centre.

https://youtu.be/sY-VRKbc09U?t=14

Ring Toss

Ring Toss is a family-friendly redemption game that makes the midway a whole lot more fun! Tossing rings around the bottles on the playing field is a challenge for players of all skill levels. You get tickets for playing this fairground favourite game depending on how talented you are at throwing rings.

The Ring Toss game boasts 46 bottles that are each lit up by dozens of RGB LEDs to create a striking and vibrant playfield. It also has a centre mounted LCD screen in addition to a vibrant playfield to heighten the excitement.

Big Bass Wheel

Reel in the Laughter! Gamers take a big step forward and pull the lever to spin the large wheel. As the wheel comes to a stop, players are awarded with big tickets. A Big Bass Bonus is possible for an even larger catch, with players winning up to 1000 tickets for a perfect spin!

This skill game is one of the most popular within the Great Canadian Midway, and there are two of them! Big Bass includes amusing fishing bloopers and intriguing noises that will keep the entire family entertained for hours.

Monster Drop

With Monster Drop players must time the high-energy ball’s drop so that it falls through the Jackpot, the Mystery Value, or the Ticket Win Values. You always win because the ball rolls and careens before falling into a pit, even if you miss!

If a ball falls into an Add Bonus Ball hole, balls are held there until a Multi-Play extravaganza which starts when a Drop Bonus Balls hole is captured! Win a cumulative 2-player jackpot by bouncing a ball into the Monster Jackpot hole on the platform.

Super Bikes 3™

Wind effects and new camera features puts you inside the game… this is as close to reality as you can get without a helmet. Show off your skills during intense gameplay and by performing mid-air tricks. Racers can choose from 8 unique characters and drive 8 amazing bikes on 5 crazy tracks.

Super Bikes 3’s visuals are ground-breaking, featuring a new, hyper-realistic world with weather, explosions, damage and more. New tricks, brand-new licensed motorcycles from around the globe, four cool songs, and more in-game action and effects. Additionally, the QR code system has been improved to enhance player loyalty with diagnostic data.

Angry Bird Coin Crash

Players are drawn to the Angry Birds Coin Crash game because it’s both entertaining and exciting to play. Gamers build a coin tower and eventually tip it over the edge and win a ton of tickets. You’ll be mesmerized by the impressive tower builder, which offers fun at every turn and gives you many chances to win tickets.

Players attempt to build a huge tower of coins and then send it crashing over the edge for a major ticket win.
When a player fills up the Tower Bonus Meter, a mini-game launches with chances to add even more coins to the tower.
The excitement level is kept high by the variety of ways players can win tickets and add coins to the playing field.

Order 160 Great Canadian Midway Tokens & Save Big!

For only $44.25+tax, you will get a heap of tokens that will give you access to these top 10 Most Popular Arcade Games, plus hundreds more at Niagara’s largest family entertainment complex!

MIDWAY TOKEN DEAL: 160 TOKENS FOR $44.25 +tax

Your tokens give you access to over 300 games at the 70,000 square foot Great Canadian Midway family entertainment complex!
Here you can play the latest interactive redemption games and more. Kids and Adults will have a great time!
Located on Clifton Hill World Famous Street of Fun by the Falls, right next to the Niagara SkyWheel!
The Perfect Family Fun Package!

From the moment you enter the Great Canadian Midway’s fantastic 70,000 square foot entertainment complex, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant colors and stimulating sounds. It has interactive rides and games for people of all ages! From old favourites to new hit games…there is something for everyone. And, when you play the redemption games, you’ll be rewarded with tickets that you can redeem for terrific prizes.

Attractions, Entertainment, List

The 5 Newest Arcade Games at the Great Canadian Midway

July 28, 2023 ntritchew Leave a comment

Reading Time: 4 minutes -

Discover the latest excitement at The Great Canadian Midway on Clifton Hill, the largest arcade in Canada featuring a selection of over 300 interactive games.

If you’re curious about the newest games, look no further! We consulted our Great Canadian Midway technicians to find you the 5 newest Midway games.

Check out the results below, listed in no particular order.

1. Carnival Wheel

This dynamic multi-spin game draws a crowd. Its beautiful dynamic wheel and brilliant Lights can be seen from across the room, and will have you coming back for more.

The Carnival Wheel provides bursting graphics with a spinning wheel that uses high-end LED panels that will undoubtedly capture your attention.

Bonus spins can include 2X and 3X wheels, which multiplies the progressive jackpot by three.

2. Nitro Trucks

Conquer the off-road racing world with Nitro Trucks®, an adrenaline-pumping game developed by the creators of MotoGP! Choose from 14 powerful trucks, upgrade them for optimal performance, and race on 6 thrilling tracks. Collect power-ups to fix your vehicle and gain nitro boosts, then unleash the RAM button to assert your dominance over rivals! The immersive cabinet design puts you right in the driver’s seat with exciting features like a roll cage, 5.1 surround sound, LED lighting, and force feedback steering wheel. Connect up to 8 games for multiplayer excitement and a rip-roarin’ good time! Get ready to smash your way to victory in Nitro Trucks®!

3. Space Warp 66

Embark on an exhilarating space adventure with Space Warp 66, a thrilling and addictive redemption game that guarantees hours of fun. The game features an intuitive Spinner Controller, providing nail-biting action for players of all ages. Dodge obstacles in the wormhole to win bonus tickets and keep the excitement going. The large cabinet with a 43″ HD screen adds to the immersive experience. Get ready to blast into space and challenge yourself to collect those valuable tickets!

4. Nerf Arcade

Introducing Nerf™ Arcade, a thrilling and high-energy game suitable for kids of all ages and family-friendly fun. Grab two oversized NERF Blasters and unleash your shooting skills to hit as many targets as possible for tickets and high scores.

Features:

Experience 4 exciting levels
Enjoy family-friendly gameplay
Immerse yourself in the action with a giant 65″ LCD screen
Compete with others on the online leaderboards for even more excitement!

5. Angry Bird Coin Crash

Players attempt to build a huge tower of coins and then send it crashing over the edge for a major ticket win.
When a player fills up the Tower Bonus Meter, a mini-game launches with chances to add even more coins to the tower.
The excitement level is kept high by the variety of ways players can win tickets and add coins to the playing field.

Order 160 Great Canadian Midway Tokens & Save Big!

For only $44.25+tax, you will get a heap of tokens that will give you access to these top 10 Most Popular Arcade Games, plus hundreds more at Niagara’s largest family entertainment complex!

Your tokens give you access to over 300 games at the 70,000 square foot Great Canadian Midway family entertainment complex!
Here you can play the latest interactive redemption games and more. Kids and Adults will have a great time!
Located on Clifton Hill World Famous Street of Fun by the Falls, right next to the Niagara SkyWheel!
The Perfect Family Fun Package!

Things To Do

Independence Day in Niagara Falls

June 29, 2023 ntritchew Leave a comment

Reading Time: 5 minutes -

Celebrate the cherished holiday of Independence Day for the United States, a special day that marks the historic adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776. Today, Independence Day is synonymous with family getaways, backyard barbecues, and unforgettable parties! It’s the perfect occasion to escape, unwind, and let loose with pure joy. Just a stone’s throw away from Niagara Falls, USA lies Clifton Hill, the “Street of Fun by the Falls,” in Niagara Falls, Canada.

Prepare for an extraordinary experience packed with attractions, games, dining, and sensational entertainment suitable for all ages. With early opening hours and late-night closings, you won’t miss out on any of the incredible moments. Enhance your adventure by grabbing the Clifton Hill Fun Pass, granting you access to six astounding attractions!

Niagara Falls Fireworks

Experience the highlight of Independence Day in Niagara Falls with the captivating Fireworks Display. For the best view, position yourself atop the Niagara SkyWheel, towering 175 feet above the ground and situated at the peak of Clifton Hill. At exactly 10:00 pm in Queen Victoria Park, prepare to be mesmerized as the Falls burst to life with a radiant showcase in the colors of the United States.

Additionally, the F alls Illumination is an absolute must-see, captivating both newcomers and returning visitors alike. On this special day, witness the majestic Falls adorned in mesmerizing shades of red, white, and blue, illuminating the Falls for 15 minutes at the top of every hour. Don’t miss this awe-inspiring spectacle that celebrates the harmonious blend of natural splendor and patriotic spirit

Dinosaur Adventure Golf

Right next to the SkyWheel stands the Dinosaur Adventure Golf, offering an exciting prehistoric miniature golf experience with 36 holes. Take your pick from two unique 18-hole courses: T-Rex Trek, perfect for family fun and adventure, or Raptor Run, designed to satisfy your competitive nature with a challenging course. Immerse yourself in a serene tropical environment, complete with a towering 50-foot volcano and cascading waterfall. But beware, as towering dinosaurs with realistic sound effects add an extra thrill to your game. Get ready to embark on a golfing journey unlike any other, where ancient creatures and captivating landscapes create an unforgettable experience for all.

The Zombies Are Here!

Prepare for an intense challenge! Zombie Attack beckons you to confront hordes of hungry zombies in an immersive adventure that engages all your senses, complete with cutting-edge 6D graphics. Engage in a thrilling competition with your loved ones, aiming to claim victory as the ultimate champion of humanity by achieving the highest score. Step into this action-packed experience and put your skills to the test as you battle against the undead. It’s time to show your mettle and prove your dominance in this thrilling showdown!

The Niagara Speedway

Experience the buzz and excitement of our highly acclaimed and sought-after attraction: the elevated go-kart track known as the Niagara Speedway! Exclusive to Canada, it seamlessly merges the heart-pounding exhilaration of kart racing with the awe-inspiring sensation of riding a roller coaster. Spanning across a vast four-acre course, this thrilling adventure takes you on a captivating journey through a four-story helical spiral, followed by a two-tiered coaster-style ramp that leads into another spiral. Prepare for an unforgettable ride that guarantees endless enjoyment for the entire family (note: height restrictions may apply). Join us and embark on this ultimate escapade that will leave you with memories to treasure!

Kelsey’s Clifton Hill

Getting hungry waiting for the fireworks to begin? You need to check out our newly renovated and expanded KELSEYS Original Roadhouse, located only minutes away from Queen Victoria Park at the top of Clifton Hill. We now feature Niagara’s largest patio bar with live entertainment all day and evening long.

KELSEYS features a menu with a great selection of appetizers and entrees perfect for sharing. They offer signature beverages to cool you down such as the Two-Handed Sangrias, and the “Beerita” which is a traditional frozen lime Margarita made with Tequila, and topped with an upside-down Corona. These are just a few Summer beverages to enjoy that are unique to KELSEYS. Live entertainment out on the covered patio will entertain you all day long!

Niagara City Cruises

It’s easily one of Niagara’s favourites! The Niagara City Cruises is a thrilling new way to experience Canada’s most spectacular wonder of the world. They will take you on the ride of your life! An intimate tour that gets you as close as possible to the breathtaking flow of water, power and mist that is the magnificent Niagara Falls. Within the Niagara Great Gorge, the catamarans will journey past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and into the very heart of the famous Horseshoe Falls. Night cruises available!

Niagara City Cruises is located on the Niagara Parkway at the north end of Queen Victoria Park, close to the Rainbow Bridge and the Oakes Garden Theatre at the foot of the Clifton Hill tourist area.

Greg Frewin Wild Magic

Experience the magic of illusion with one of the best magicians in the world, Greg Frewin, as he brings his Las Vegas-style performance to the Greg Frewin Theatre in Niagara Falls, Canada. Recognized by his peers the world over as ‘The International Grand Champion of Magic,’ his Wild Magic Show — featuring real tigers and exotic birds from around the globe — has been hailed as jaw-dropping magic in a family-friendly environment. It’s the quintessential component of any Niagara Falls vacation..

The Greg Frewin Theatre features a true Las Vegas style show, and just a 5-minute walk from Clifton Hill, the “Wild Magic Show” runs at 6:00 & 7:30 pm on Independence Day, July 4th. Click here for ticket information and pricing.

Parking for Independence Day

You will find plenty of parking over the Independence Day weekend at the Clifton Hill lot in the map below. Over 700 vehicles can be accommodated and it’s only a 5 minute walk down Clifton Hill to the fireworks show, the Niagara Parks attractions, WildPlay’s MistRider Zipline to the Falls, and the Niagara City Cruises.

It’s also just steps away from the Fallsview district for those of you who wish to do a little gambling at the Fallsview Casino Resort.

Key Features:

Wheelchair accessible parking
Security patrolled
2 ways in, 3 way out of this lot
Central to viewing the Niagara Falls, Clifton Hill, and the Fallsview District.
Well illuminated Parking lot

Niagara Falls Border Crossing

We can help you prepare for crossing the border into Niagara Falls, Canada! A little preparation will go a long way, helping to simplify the process of entering from the United States.

Entry Into Canada

Proof of vaccination and re-entry testing will no longer be necessary for travelers entering Canada by land, air, or water.

Please note: Independence Day weekend is considered one of the busier cross-border times in the Niagara–Fort Erie corridor. The busiest day being Memorial Day Monday. Travelers taking advantage of the many cross-border activities on Memorial Day, should consider some of the following border crossing tips to limit hassles between crossing the U.S.A. and Canada.

**Follow this link for additional border crossing info from the US into Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid

Entertainment, Events, Facts, History, News

History of the Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls, Canada

January 11, 2023 clynn Leave a comment

Reading Time: 3 minutes -

There is no denying the huge growth over the years at the Winter Festival of Lights, but how much do you know about the history of the Winter Festival of Lights?

The festival originally began on the US side in Niagara Falls, New York back in 1980. It only lasted 44 days and was simply titled “Festival of Lights.” The event received funding by sponsorship from the area tourist industry, and with volunteer help from the community.

This included a nine-story “OxyLights,” which was a light show synchronized to Christmas music. The vacated Nabisco 180 foot tall silos were illuminated and called the “Nabisco Fantasy of Lights” on the south end of the downtown area. The trees along Old Falls Street and Lackey Plaza were decorated with thousands of strings of lights creating a path from the Falls Convention Center to the Winter Garden. Inside, there was more than 15,000 square feet of indoor animation in the Carborundum Center and inside the Niagara Falls Convention Center. The seven-story Wintergarden also had strings of lights and a huge star hanging over the entrance.

This “Festival of Lights” ran until 2004 when the City of Niagara Falls eventually didn’t receive enough sponsorship dollars.

Some photos from the US “Festival of Lights” (photos courtesy of the Niagara Falls Public Library Local History Department).

Niagara Falls, Ontario then decided to take on the “Festival of Lights” in 1983 (changing the name to the “Winter Festival of Lights” in 1985). This was an arrangement made between the Niagara Falls Canada Visitor and Convention Bureau, the City of Niagara Falls Ontario, and the Niagara Parks Commission after seeing the huge tourist draw that it brought the US side. Its budget was modest — only $18,000 when it premiered on November 17, 1983 until February 26, 1984. During this first year of operation, approximately 250,000 people and 35 motor coaches visited the Winter Festival of Lights. Currently in its 39th year, it sees upwards of 1 million annual visitors and 750 motor coaches each year.

In 1992, the Winter Festival of Lights introduced Disney into the mix. The “Enchantment of Disney” displays were immediately a crowd favourite throughout Queen Victoria Park, with over 20 animated displays of Disney classics.

Festival of Lights Disney’s Toy Story in Lights 2004

From 1998-2006, the Festival introduced a weekly Night Parade of Lights in which it featured a dozen or so lit up floats. Despite its success, in 2006, the Winter Festival of Lights cancelled the Night Parade, which in turn poured more money to be put into lights throughout the park and Dufferin Islands.

In 2010, the CAA became a huge sponsor of the Winter Festival of Lights and then became known as the “CAA Winter Festival of Lights” when they signed a contract for a two-year sponsorship.
In 2013 (to current date), the Ontario Power Generation became its new sponsor, now being entitled the “Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights“. Additionally, the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights ended the partnership with Disney for light displays and opening ceremonies after twenty years. Disney had decided to limit the character’s appearances to their theme parks. Organizers decided to replace them with twenty Korean lantern displays, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the end of the Korean War and 50 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and South Korea.

This year in 2021, The Winter Festival of Lights will illuminate Niagara Falls for 101 Nights (November 13th, 2021- February 21st, 2022), almost doubling the amount of time from previous years. Every year, there is always something new and spectacular happening during this ever-growing and one of Canada’s favourite events.

2020 introduced 20 new additional displays, with this year adding a further 8 new exhibits. 3D animals are back, along with a big gingerbread home, fairy tale palace, and light tunnel.

For more information on the Winter Festival Lights

Things To Do

Shop, Play, and Stay in Niagara Falls, Canada

August 25, 2017 clynn Leave a comment

Reading Time: 4 minutes -Labour Day weekend is bittersweet! It’s both a long weekend, and also the last one before the kids go back to school. Why not take advantage of it, and shop, play, and stay in Niagara Falls, Canada?

Here’s Where To Shop In Niagara Falls

Back to school specials! They are happening all this weekend at Niagara’s two favorite outlet malls, and both locations are open throughout the long weekend and into Labour Day Monday.
Outlet Collection at Niagara – 300 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-lake, Ontario

Hours over the Labour Day long weekend:
Friday: 10am – 9pm
Saturday: 10am – 9pm
Sunday: 10am – 6pm
Labour Day Monday: 10am – 6pm
Directions
From Toronto
*Exit QEW at Glendale Avenue South.
*Turn right on to Glendale, then right on to Taylor Road at the lights.
*Take a left to enter Outlet Collection at Niagara.
From Niagara Falls (Rainbow Bridge)
1. Head northeast on Falls Ave/Regional Rd 420 toward Roberts St.
2. Continue onto Ontario 420 W/Queen Elizabeth Way).
3. Exit QEW at Regional Road 89/Glendale Avenue.
4. Turn left onto Glendale Ave.
5. Turn right onto Taylor Road.
**Currently there is construction happening on the 420 that may cause some delays. Please see “Holiday Weekend Alternate Routes to QEW from Niagara Falls” to avoid any traffic congestion.
Some Back-To-School Promotions over the Labour Day weekend
**Special: Until September 3rd, get a bonus $15 gift card when you purchase $150 worth of gift cards. While quantities last. Certain conditions apply. Please visit Guest Services for more details.
Samsonite: August 14th – September 30th – Great savings on backpacks
Boathouse: August 11th – September 4th – BOGO 50% cff select Fall styles & brands
Brooks Brothers Factory Store: August 24th – September 4th – Labour Day Clearance Sale! 50% – 80% Off* throughout the store
Roots: August 24th – September 4th – For a limited time only, buy three + sweats get 40% off, buy two sweats get 30% off, buy one sweat get 20% off
Sketchers Footwear: August 1st – September 4th – Back to School Sale! Buy 1 shoe and get your 2nd pair for 50% off
Plus much, much more! Click here for a full list of their promotions.
Canada One Factory Outlets – 7500 Lundy’s Lane, Niagara Falls, Ontario

Hours over the Labour Day long weekend:
Friday: 10am – 9pm
Saturday: 10am – 9pm
Sunday: 10am – 6pm
Labour day Monday: 10am – 6pm
Directions
From Toronto
*Take QEW to Niagara Falls.
*Exit at Lundy’s Lane.
*Left on Montrose Road.
*Left on Lundy’s Lane.
*Right turn into Canada One Outlets entrance.
From Niagara Falls (Rainbow Bridge)
*Hwy 420 to Lundy’s Lane exit.
*Left on Montrose Road.
*Left on Lundy’s Lane.
From Bus/Train Station to Canada One, you may take the WEGO RED Line to Canada One. Other alternatives for getting around Niagara Falls.
Some Back-To-School Promotions over the Labour Day weekend
Reebok: Now – September 13th – Buy 2, get 20% off, Buy 3, get 30% off, Buy 4 or more, get 40% off
Carters OshKosh “Style Up 4 School”: August 24th – September 13th – $6 Graphic Tees, $8 Leggings, $9 B’gosh Blue Jeans, $12 Joggers, fleece hoodies & pants (Limited Time Only)
Brooks Brothers Factory Store: August 24th – September 4th – Labour Day Clearance Sale! 50% – 80% Off* throughout the store
Roots: August 24th – September 4th – For a limited time only, buy three + sweats get 40% off, buy two sweats get 30% off, buy one sweat get 20% off
Tommy Hilfiger: Labour Day Sale – August 31st – September 7th – 30-50% off Entire Store*
Plus much, much more! Click here for a full list of their promotions.

Play in Niagara Falls

There is no shortage of things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada over the Labour Day weekend! There’s more than enough fun to be had for the whole family to enjoy!
Labour Day Weekend events and things to do:

Clifton Hill is more than attractions and dining — stock up on back-to-school shopping at our two major retails outlets, the Canada Trading Company and the Fun Factory. Both stores have clothing for all ages, along with school supplies that you won’t find at department stores. Unique items, as well as souvenir stationary to commemorate the last trip to Niagara Falls before school begins!

Canada Trading Company

Fun Factory

Stay in Niagara Falls – Niagara Falls Hotels

You’ll need a place to stay that is the prime location for all that there is to do!
That is why we made it easy for you to narrow down your search for the perfect hotel. Choose a Lundy’s Lane Hotel for affordable rooms, close to the Canada One Outlet Mall, cute boutiques and retail outlets along the promenade. Choose a Clifton Hill Hotel to be close to all the Labour Day weekend events, activities, and attractions, and choose a Fallsview Hotel for the most spectacular views of the falls, close to the Fallsview Casino district.
Shop, play, and stay in Niagara Falls, Canada this holiday weekend!

News

Niagara Falls Border Crossing: Get More, Spend Less in Canada

July 14, 2016 clynn Leave a comment

Reading Time: 5 minutes -*Pictured Above: The Rainbow Bridge – Photo Cred: Christine Hess Photography
More Americans are traveling into Canada this Summer, and this past July 4th weekend has been the busiest since 2007. This is fantastic news to the Canadian economy that took a hit since 2001, largely in part to the 9/11 terrorism attacks. That, combined with new passport requirements, saw less and less of our American friends crossing the border into Canada. However, the old saying “time heals all wounds” rings true when it comes to the desire to travel again. And travel is most definitely picking up with the U.S. citizens into Canada — we are seeing more and more Americans traveling into Canada at the Niagara Falls border crossings, and less Canadians traveling into the states due to the current Canadian dollar. As it stands, 1 US dollar is worth about 1.29 Canadian.
Many of the Americans that are traveling into Canada are either doing it for the first time, or the first time in a long time. So here is what you need to know about Niagara Falls Border Crossing:
We have 3 main border crossings into Niagara Falls, plus the Whirlpool Bridge for NEXUS travelers ONLY:

The Rainbow Bridge

This bridge connects Niagara Falls, N.Y., with Niagara Falls, Ontario. This is the most direct route to Casino Niagara, Clifton Hill, Hornblower Niagara Cruises, and the Fallsview Casino.
Duty free Stores:
Canada (www.niagaradutyfree.com)
US (www.dutyfreeamericas.com)
Restrictions
**No commercial trucks
Number of Customs inspection lanes
Sixteen (16) car inspection lanes into the U.S.
Fifteen (15) car inspection lanes into Canada.

The Whirlpool Bridge

This bridge connects Niagara Falls, N.Y., with Niagara Falls, Ontario. The Whirlpool Bridge is reserved for subscribers to NEXUS, a program for pre-approved clearance. NEXUS speeds border crossings and is open to residents of both the U.S. and Canada.
Restrictions
**No commercial trucks
**No pedestrians
**No bicycles
**Nothing in tow

The Queenston-Lewiston Bridge

This bridge connects Lewiston, N.Y., with Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.
Restrictions
**No pedestrians
Number of Customs inspection lanes
Six (6) car inspection lanes. Four (4) truck inspection lanes into the U.S.
Ten (10) car inspection lanes. Five (5) truck lanes into Canada.
Duty Free Stores:
Canada (www.dutytaxfree.com)
US (www.dutyfreeamericas.com)

The Peace Bridge

This bridge connects Buffalo, N.Y., with Fort Erie, Ontario
Restrictions
**None
Number of Customs inspection lanes
Eighteen (18) inspection lanes (11 for passenger vehicles, 7 commercial) into the U.S.
Twenty (20) inspection lanes (15 for passenger vehicles, 5 commercial) into Canada.
Duty Free Stores:
Canada (www.dutyfree.ca)
US (www.dutyfreeamericas.com)
**If you have any questions about what documents are required to cross the borders, obtaining a VISA, and for LIVE camera views of the Peace Bridge and Ontario Highways, click here.

Know What ID is Necessary:

All visitors arriving to Canada need a passport or passport equivalent. (If you are traveling soon, you can get a passport within 24 hrs with Rushmypassport.com.)
**U.S. citizens ages 15 or younger with parental consent will be allowed to cross the borders at land and sea entry points with certified copies of their birth certificates rather than passports.

Have a Note for Children Traveling without Both Parents:

Adults traveling over the border into Canada with children who are not their own should have a written note from the parents or guardians giving permission for the children to leave the country. The permission should include the name and contact information of the parent / guardian.

As stated earlier, the most accessible Niagara Falls border crossing to get to Clifton Hill and to view the majestic Niagara Falls is by accessing the Rainbow Bridge.

*Above: A shot of the Niagara SkyWheel — just one attraction of many located on Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Canada, just minutes from the gorgeous Niagara Falls*
Tips for crossing the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls:
1.) Enroll in NEXUS and E-ZPass to expedite your border crossing. NEXUS expedites the border clearance process for low-risk, pre-approved travelers into Canada and the United States. NEXUS dedicated customs inspection lanes are available in the Niagara Region at the Rainbow Bridge.
E-ZPass is an electronic toll collection technology that makes traveling more convenient, helps reduce traffic congestion, and saves you money at the Peace Bridge by reducing fuel consumption and saving you 10% off the cash toll rate.

2.) Choose which bridge to take. Make an informed decision when deciding which bridge to cross by checking the CBSA website or CBP website to see what their posted wait times are for Niagara Region international bridges or http://www.niagarafallsbridges.com/. You can also call 1-800-715-6722 to get the wait times for Niagara Region international bridges. These options are updated hourly. Have proper identification ready to present to the Customs agent. Click here to view border identification requirements.
3.) If traveling with children who are not part of your immediate family, have a note from the parents that their child has permission to cross the border with you. The note should include telephone numbers where the children’s parents can be reached.
4.) Turn off radios and cell phones when talking to Customs agents.
5.) Declare all fruits, vegetables, plants and plant products, animals, birds, eggs, meat and meat products.
6.) Declare all items acquired for personal use.
7.) Do not fool around. Customs and Immigration agents on both sides of the border are law enforcement officials who take their duties very seriously. Approach inspection booths slowly and follow signage instructions.
8.) Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
9.) Be patient. Customs agents are responsible for protecting our nations’ borders and public safety.
10.) Check and empty your truck beforehand. Unnecessary items in your trunk may be a source of questioning by border officials and may add time to your border crossing.

11.) Upon arriving at the Canada Border Services booth, roll down both your front and back windows so that the border officer can address people seated in the back of the vehicle as well.

Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls Parking

Once you cross the border into Canada, you’ll want to descend upon the Niagara Falls area to take in the Falls and all the surrounding attractions and events. You don’t need to struggle to find parking with a large parking area, in the middle of it all, on Clifton Hill!
It’s a short walk from the Fallsview Casino and their adjoining restaurants, and it comes complete with a jolly cut that allows you to bypass crowds and get from the parking lot to the Queen Victoria Park and Falls in a matter of seconds. Watch the Niagara Falls fireworks shows, go on a boat cruise with the Hornblower Niagara Cruises, and/or try out the all-new WildPlay Niagara Zipline to the Falls!
Click the image below for information on Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls Parking central to it all:

News

15 Amazing Travel Hacks

September 16, 2015 clynn Leave a comment

Reading Time: 4 minutes -Does preparing for travel stress you out? Here are 15 travel hacks to help alleviate some of the stress associated with going on a trip.
1. Book through the week: Unless you have kids in school, free up some money by booking your trip during midweek. Rates usually go up Friday’s, and then tend to drop down by Monday on both airfare and hotels. Generally in my experience, the best days to book are Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s.
*Check out the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill’s midweek rates* (Niagara Falls Travel)

2. Photocopy your personal identification: Scan your passport, driver’s license, and birth certificate before leaving on a trip, and email the information to yourself. This is just in case any of these get lost or stolen during your trip. At least now you have a copy that you know can’t get lost!
3. Pack jewelry smartly: Placing necklaces and earrings in those side compartments in the luggage never worked for me. Necklaces always got tangled up, and it was just too time consuming to sift through and find everything. Instead, buy those pill containers that are labeled from Monday to Sunday. Separate each of the items on there — plus if you are really organized, you can plan out your jewelry for each day of your trip.
4. Saran wrap your liquids: I once had mouthwash open and spill all over my clothes. Now I take off all the lids of my liquids, saran wrap them, then put the lids back on. It works.
5. Temporary tattoos: This may sound silly initially, but you can purchase temporary tattoos that you can place on your child that have your phone number in case he/she gets lost. Put one on your child if you are headed anywhere busy. You can purchase them online on such websites like tottoos.org. If that doesn’t appeal to you, simply use a pen and write your phone number on a spot of your child that won’t risk getting washed off.
6. Use Social Media to your advantage: Are you traveling and need an answer to a question and can’t get ahold of anyone? Your best way to get the answers to your questions — and generally the quickest — is via social media channels such as Twitter. Just like texting, people tend to respond quicker in a method that doesn’t seem as “personal” as a phone call. Plus, if it’s a business, they will want to answer efficiently when it’s put out there for everyone to see.
Have a question about Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls? I’d be happy to answer your concerns via our Twitter account!

7. Use band-aids to childproof outlets in hotel rooms.
8. Stock up on the hotel bathroom freebies: Most importantly, be sure to keep those little bottles of hair conditioners. They are a great substitute for moisturizing cream, shaving cream, and even makeup remover.
9. Pay attention to the signs: For those that don’t know, when you are driving to an unfamiliar place and you are unsure what side the exit is going to be on and you see signs like the one below, know that the “Exit” signs listed at the top are placed to the right and the left of the sign for a reason. Example: Exit 4 and Exit 3A will be on the right, and Exit 3B, will be to the left.

10. Print this out — just in case:

11. Use tissue paper: To reduce wrinkling in clothes stuffed in a suitcase, use tissue paper to prevent that from happening.
12. Better yet, ROLL your clothes rather than folding them. This also provides more space.
13. Tic Tac containers: Use these to store easy-to-lose items such as hair pins and elastics.
14. Forgot your USB for your phone? Use the USB outlet on the TV in the hotel that you are staying at to charge.
15. Bring a power strip with you for extra outlets — especially if sharing a hotel room with numerous people and their handheld devices.
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Visiting Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Canada? Click here for assistance on planning your trip.
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Christine Lynn

clynn@cliftonhill.com

www.cliftonhill.com

Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb

Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt

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Instagram: @cliftonhillfun

Restaurants

Niagara Brewing Company: Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Canada

September 4, 2015 clynn Leave a comment

Reading Time: 2 minutes -Niagara Falls, Canada has a unique, new establishment located on its “Street of Fun by the Falls”, Clifton Hill. The Niagara Brewing Company is situated on the former site of the World Wrestling Entertainment store, next to the Rainforest Cafe.
I spoke to Brewmaster Gord Slater, who spoke a bit about the craft brewery which opened on Sunday, June 7th, 2015. Gord is no stranger to the industry; he has been in the business of developing breweries for over 30 years, with assisting in the design of over 60 breweries across North America.

*Pictured Above: Chatting with Brewmaster, Gord Slater*
The Niagara Brewing Company offers innovative and refreshing brews uniquely crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
Guests can indulge in delicious beer on the outdoor patio, plus pair the brews with tasty appetizers. Beer is sold on-site to take home with you at an excellent price point. Free 1 oz. samples are provided inside as a welcoming introduction into the store.
Video on the Niagara Brewing Company:

We are pleased to welcome the Niagara Brewing Company as one of our newest Niagara Falls restaurants, Canadian Craft Beer Breweries, and a retail store all in one — and it’s located right here in the entertainment district of Niagara Falls — Clifton Hill!
Click here for directions to Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Canada, and to help you plan your trip.

Christine Lynn

clynn@cliftonhill.com

www.cliftonhill.com

Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb

Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt

Google+: www.CliftonHill.com/gplus

Pinterest: www.CliftonHill.com/pin

Instagram: @cliftonhillfun

Deals, Family

March Break Travel Tips in Niagara Falls…Save Money and Enjoy Your Family!

February 20, 2013 clynn Leave a comment

Reading Time: 5 minutes -
You blink and it’s here. March Break. Parents without a March Break plan face the possibility of spending their own hard-earned holidays ensuring the family isn’t bored – or worse – testing each other’s patience for an entire week. We’ve all been there before, booking a last minute getaway with the best intentions, only to have its foundation crumble before your eyes because you never took into account last minute details that you should have tweaked beforehand. Whether it be financial savings, or preparing for any injuries that quite possibly, and with all probability with a little one, may occur. Suddenly your vacation starts to unravel and you feel totally incompetent because its the little things that can really make or break your vacation and could have easily been avoided.
With March Break only a couple of weeks away, booking a last-minute getaway so the whole family can unwind isn’t as impossible as it may sound. The perfect destination can still be found for all types of families and budgets. From getting the best possible deal to ensuring the family stays safe, here are some helpful…and quite often, overlooked tips.
There ARE last minute getaway options for families, not just couples without children.
Many hotels often offer package savings that you won’t necessarily be aware of unless you do research beforehand. Be your own Private Investigator. If there is a certain hotel chain that you are fond of, check out their website, subscribe to their newsletter, read their blog postings or even become a “fan” of their social media pages. You will find that many hotel chains advertise through this route and have monthly and even weekly special savings…maybe even contest giveaways!…that can greatly benefit you in the long run. As an example, the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls offers all the above in their website and continuously sustains many special offers and package deals year round.
https://www.cliftonhill.com/niagara-falls-packages and follow them socially on Facebook “Comfort Inn Clifton Hill: Niagara Falls Hotel and Resort” and/or on Twitter “@cliftonhillfun” and “@Niagara_Hotel”.
Since travelling with the whole clan can get pricey – vacationers need to start saving even before going on holiday. Consider a pre-packaged vacation that includes meals, which limits the need to spend more money while on holiday. The Comfort Inn always offers a complimentary breakfast with your stay, ensuring cost-effective savings on your most important meal of the day! Most establishments in tourist destinations will charge you an obscene amount of money to crack open an egg and fry some bacon…and if you have a family of four, consider that a savings of close to, if not more, than $60. Navigate your way through their website and you will find additional package savings complete with meal vouchers at family friendly establishments such as Kelsey’s and Boston Pizza!
https://www.cliftonhill.com/niagara-falls-restaurants
Alleviate boredom!
From destination activities like theme parks, water parks and museums for the kids to shopping, tours and golf outings for the parents, you need to ensure a memorable and lively holiday. For families who prefer to stay on a resort than venture off property, a hotel with an indoor pool or games room could help offset a rainy day when the kids are forced to stay indoors. For everyone else, look to book with a hotel that is affiliated with or offers significant savings with many local attractions that you can ALL enjoy. If you are looking to book a trip to Niagara Falls, the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill offers just that…attraction savings off property such as the Greg Frewin Magic Show and the Niagara Helicopter Tours to hitting up five side-by-side attractions just a mere couple of minutes from each other with the Clifton Hill Fun Pass!

www.cliftonhill.com/packages/build-a-package-deals/helicopter-tour
Smartly Organize Your Packing
This one I can’t emphasize enough. Years ago when my husband moved back to Ontario from British Columbia with a few of his closest friends, he literally brought his entire wardrobe with him in one shot with the false understanding that he would be under the baggage weight. He was wrong. There he was, 15 minutes until boarding time throwing away sweaters, shoes and a few pairs of jeans all in the name of being under the required weight. If you have children, you know that traveling light is not an option. Make sure that you evenly distribute luggage weight. If you are 10 lbs over and your spouse is 10 lbs under in baggage weight…you know what to do. Transfer items from your suitcase to the other! And let’s be honest, it’s usually us women that carry all the “extras”…think curling irons, makeup, five different pairs of shoes “just in case” you find a need to finally wear those stilettos. You get the point. Make sure you check with your airline ahead of time regarding stroller and childseat guidelines as well. You don’t want any last minute surprises.
Share the excitement
Encourage kids of all ages to document their experiences with photos or diary entries. Nominating them as the ‘official family photographer’ will not only keep them busy, but memories captured can then be shared on social media sites or in photo albums or framed pictures that can be hung in your home…and remember to have them tag their memories with the hotel or attraction of their choosing as well! They will appreciate the feedback and the response will ignite a sense of importance in your children as well. It’s a win-win.
Stay safe
Travelling is inherently risky, so the wise vacationer will take preventative precautions, including visiting a travel clinic that can set them up with prescriptions and antibiotics ahead of time. It’s always a good idea to have the whole family visit the doctor before you go, that way you can tackle ahead of time any preventative measures needed to avoid a potentially disastrous trip. When you check-in at the hotel, don’t be afraid to ask where the closest hospital is located, and if needed, have them supply you with a map. You may not think this will be necessary, but usually when you are on vacation you drink more and this will lower your inhibitions. That stair you so easily stepped up when you checked in may be a bomb waiting to detonate after a few alcoholic beverages. Also, carry a first aid kit with you. Bandaids, gauze, tweezers, whatever. You never know when you may need them. Stay safe and have fun!
Wherever you decide to go during your March Break getaway, follow these tips for a successful, stress-free, family FUN vacation! Enjoy and stay safe :).
Christine

Things To Do

4th of July Video/Photos from Clifton Hill’s Point of View

July 5, 2012 ntritchew Leave a comment

Reading Time: < 1 minuteWe are getting summer going with a bang in Niagara Falls…or several! It has been a week filled with fireworks and celebrations! Most recent we welcomed our US friends to Canada during their July 4th Holiday celebrations! The fireworks were a lot of fun, but meeting all of you was even better. Clifton Hill was filled with smiles, kids out loving the show, couples were getting close, and families sharing moments.
Just a hint if your in the falls for the next fireworks display a great spot to see them without the crazy amounts of crowds is right on the Clifton Hill Niagara Falls Hotel property, some people try to catch the SkyWheel (it goes all night and you get a bonus spin if you click here), but my fav was the people getting a view from the Dinosaur Adventure Golf! What better way to end a round then a giant display of beautiful colours and magnificent designs!