We wouldn’t be able to call ourselves the City of Good Neighbors if we didn’t show our neighbors some love once in awhile! Our neighbors to the north are fortunate enough to be home to one of the world’s wonders, which means tons of tourists flock to the falls daily. While there are tons of tourist attractions to enjoy, sometimes it’s nice to escape the crowds. Here are 8 hidden gems the guidebooks don’t tell you about when visiting Niagara Falls. Read on to plan your trip and pack up your passport – a few of these are located on the Canadian side of the falls!
Editor’s Note: Since this article was published, Prophet Isaiah’s Second Coming House and 24 Below Gallery & Cafe have sadly closed their doors. Swing by Eternal Flame Falls and treat yourself to the Whirlpool Rapids Trail for more local fun.
- Prophet Isaiah’s Second Coming House (1308 Ontario Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY)
Sharon_zz - TripAdvisor Prophet Isaiah’s Second Coming house might not be listed among the top tourist attractions in Niagara Falls, but in our opinion, it should be. This house is unlike any other, and Isaiah himself even comes to greet visitors at his home. You can read more of the history behind this beautiful place here.
- Screaming Tunnel (Warner Road, Niagara Falls, ON)
Cathy Simpson via Niagara Falls Public Library ‘Tis the season for all things spooky, and this haunted tunnel in Niagara Falls, Ontario tops the list! This hidden gem might not be packed with tourists, but a trip into the tunnel might bring you another kind of company… the ghostly kind! Read up on the haunted history of this spooky place here, and enter if you dare!
- Smoke’s Poutinerie (5869 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls, ON)
Becky P. - Yelp You can’t visit Niagara Falls, Ontario without dining at a poutinerie! One of the best hidden gems in Niagara Falls is Smoke’s Poutinerie. Tons of toppings are dished up over hot fries and smothered with cheese and gravy. Hungry yet?
- Art Alley (425 3rd Street, Niagara Falls, NY)
mrbuilding - TripAdvisor There are 19 murals from local artists are displayed in this colorful alleyway, making Art Alley the perfect detour destination on your way to the falls. Stop and stay a while, and be sure to document your experience in photo form! (Bonus points if you tag us on Instagram @OnlyInBuffalo)
- Power City Eatery (444 3rd Street, Niagara Falls, NY)
Hana M. - Yelp Power City Eatery is a cafe-style restaurant located close to Art Alley - how convenient for a lunch stop! This Niagara Falls gem offers local ingredients, great menu items (try the pastrami!), and even local beer.
- The Griffon Gastropub (2470 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY)
Rachel G. - Yelp While we’re on the topic of delicious food… the guidebooks might not tell you much about the Griffon Gastropub, but we will! This restaurant is a must-stop in Niagara Falls. Try the chicken and waffles and “pillows of love” for dessert. You’ll be coming back on the regular!
- 24 Below Gallery & Cafe (435 3rd Street, Niagara Falls, NY)
24 Below Gallery & Cafe - Facebook We’re not sure who thought up this brilliant place, but we’re really glad they did! 24 Below Gallery & Cafe is exactly what their name suggests: an art gallery/cafe combo. Browse fine art, local gifts, and artisan goods with a coffee or smoothie in hand at this hidden gem. It’s a win-win while visiting Niagara Falls!
- De Dee’s Dairy (8715 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Niagara Falls, NY)
Mark M. - Yelp What would a staycation day be without a little ice cream? De Dee’s Dairy is the best of the best in Niagara Falls! The portions at this ice cream shop are huge, and the flavor options are even more impressive. This place is a staple for Niagara Falls natives, and for good reason!
What are your favorite hidden gems in Niagara Falls? For NF natives – sound off in the comments below! We’d love to hear your take on what tourists should be checking out in your beautiful city!
Sharon_zz - TripAdvisor
Prophet Isaiah’s Second Coming house might not be listed among the top tourist attractions in Niagara Falls, but in our opinion, it should be. This house is unlike any other, and Isaiah himself even comes to greet visitors at his home. You can read more of the history behind this beautiful place here.
Cathy Simpson via Niagara Falls Public Library
‘Tis the season for all things spooky, and this haunted tunnel in Niagara Falls, Ontario tops the list! This hidden gem might not be packed with tourists, but a trip into the tunnel might bring you another kind of company… the ghostly kind! Read up on the haunted history of this spooky place here, and enter if you dare!
Becky P. - Yelp
You can’t visit Niagara Falls, Ontario without dining at a poutinerie! One of the best hidden gems in Niagara Falls is Smoke’s Poutinerie. Tons of toppings are dished up over hot fries and smothered with cheese and gravy. Hungry yet?
mrbuilding - TripAdvisor
There are 19 murals from local artists are displayed in this colorful alleyway, making Art Alley the perfect detour destination on your way to the falls. Stop and stay a while, and be sure to document your experience in photo form! (Bonus points if you tag us on Instagram @OnlyInBuffalo)
Hana M. - Yelp
Power City Eatery is a cafe-style restaurant located close to Art Alley - how convenient for a lunch stop! This Niagara Falls gem offers local ingredients, great menu items (try the pastrami!), and even local beer.
Rachel G. - Yelp
While we’re on the topic of delicious food… the guidebooks might not tell you much about the Griffon Gastropub, but we will! This restaurant is a must-stop in Niagara Falls. Try the chicken and waffles and “pillows of love” for dessert. You’ll be coming back on the regular!
24 Below Gallery & Cafe - Facebook
We’re not sure who thought up this brilliant place, but we’re really glad they did! 24 Below Gallery & Cafe is exactly what their name suggests: an art gallery/cafe combo. Browse fine art, local gifts, and artisan goods with a coffee or smoothie in hand at this hidden gem. It’s a win-win while visiting Niagara Falls!
Mark M. - Yelp
What would a staycation day be without a little ice cream? De Dee’s Dairy is the best of the best in Niagara Falls! The portions at this ice cream shop are huge, and the flavor options are even more impressive. This place is a staple for Niagara Falls natives, and for good reason!
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