Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens?
What makes it 85% Kids-Friendly: Kids can hunt for butterflies in the conservatory, join free summer art activities and run on open lawns, while paved paths suit strollers; supervision is needed near ponds and no playground exists.
Positives:
- Free Garden Access: Main arboretum, crabapple vista and rose garden are free to enter.
- Stroller-friendly Paths: Wide, paved trails make it easy to navigate with strollers or little walkers.
Challenges:
- Paid Exhibits Add Up: Butterfly Conservatory, Showhouse and carriage rides each have separate fees.
- Weekend Crowds: Parking lots and paths fill up midday on weekends and holidays.
What is Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens?
- A 40-hectare botanical garden opened in 1936, showcasing European-style parterres, allees and themed plant collections
- An arboretum containing over 2,400 rose bushes alongside rhododendrons, azaleas and ornamental trees
- A horticultural complex managed by the Niagara Parks Commission, encompassing a year-round Floral Showhouse and adjacent Butterfly Conservatory
What is so special about Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens for with kids?
- Free entry to vast European-style gardens and seasonal blooms
- Interactive indoor attractions: butterflies and floral showhouse
- Fun horse-drawn carriage ride through formal gardens
- Stroller-friendly trails and picnic spots for families
Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours
Why 3–4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for free garden strolls, paid exhibits and a relaxed picnic without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
Butterfly Conservatory:
Walk among 2,000+ free-flying tropical butterflies.
Tip: Arrive at opening (10 a.m.) to see butterflies emerge at the pupation window.
Floral Showhouse:
Explore indoor orchid, palm and succulent displays.
Tip: Combine with the conservatory on cooler days to stay warm and dry.
Horse-drawn Carriage Ride:
Enjoy a 30-minute tour through the formal parterre and rose gardens.
Tip: Purchase tickets by mid-morning to secure your preferred departure time.
Crabapple Vista & Rose Garden Stroll:
Stroll beneath double-row crabapple trees and over 2,400 rose bushes.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy on the lawns near the roses.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
- Buy Parking Pass Online: Order your Daily Parking Pass in advance to save time at the gate.
- Pack a Picnic: Bring food and a blanket to avoid café lines and snack bar costs.
- Start Early: Arrive at opening to enjoy cooler temperatures and quieter paths.
Reviews of Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
Live LOVE Life
Visiting the Niagara Falls Botanical Gardens was such a lovely experience. The grounds are expansive and beautifully maintained, surrounded by vibrant flowers, majestic trees, and lush greenery at every turn. Within the same area is the Butterfly Conservatory — though it was closed during my visit, it’s definitely on my list for next time. Even without it, the gardens themselves were breathtaking ...
Foodie
The Butterfly Conservatory in Niagara Falls is a serene and enchanting escape into a tropical paradise. Home to over 2,000 free-flying butterflies, the lush greenhouse features winding paths, waterfalls, and vibrant plant life that create a magical atmosphere. It’s as peaceful, educational, and perfect for families or nature lovers. Whether you’re snapping photos or simply soaking in the beauty, i...
Scott Murri
A great experience. Campus is large and spaced out. Very relaxing day and visit. Wide variety of plants too. Parking is 8 dollars but if you get it there you can use it up at horseshoe falls and not pay more. Lady at the parking booth was so friendly Butterfly garden costs 20 bucks did not do this visit.
KAJAN KUGAN
🌿 Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens – A Peaceful Oasis Near the Falls The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens is a hidden gem just a short drive from the main Niagara Falls attractions. This beautifully maintained 99-acre garden is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and scenic escape from the busy tourist areas. The gardens are stunning in every season, but especially vibrant in late spring and sum...
Isabelle Roy
The butterfly experience was everything we expected: surrounded by multiple butterflies, we spent an hour being just amazed at the close contact we had with nature’s most precious creatures. The gardens are also very impressive and super well-maintained. It’s a nice place for kids AND for adults!
When is the best time to visit Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens (Niagara Falls, Canada)?
Spring brings peak crabapple blooms; mid-July hosts free kids’ painting at Art in the Gardens; fall offers vibrant foliage and fewer crowds.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Daily Parking Pass | CAD 31.86 |
| Butterfly Conservatory (2 adults, 2 kids) | CAD 66 |
| Floral Showhouse (2 adults, 2 kids) | CAD 26 |
| Horse-drawn Carriage Ride (4 people) | CAD 80 |
| Snacks at Garden Café | CAD 20 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 223.86 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
Address: 2565 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2S7, Canada
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens (Niagara Falls)?
About Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 905-356-811910 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities