Where to Stay in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada: The Fallsview Marriott

When we visit Niagara Falls, Ontario (and we do, six or seven times a year), we usually stay at the Marriott Fallsview and Spa (1-888-501-8916).  It is the closest hotel to the falls and the rooms facing the falls offer a spectacular view. It has many package deals, so call or check their website. www.niagarafallsmarriott.com. The ones during the week are particularly enticing so be flexible if you can. The photograph below was taken from the hotel at sunrise. Be sure not to confuse the Spa with another Marriott just down the street.  That hotel was until recently a Sheraton and is quite nice also. We just happen to favor the original Marriott.

It has a large and appealing lobby as you enter the hotel.  In addition to the reception desk, there is a small bar tucked away in one corner, a Starbucks (of course) and a help desk where you can sign up for a variety of expeditions such as a tour of the wineries along the Niagara Parkway (see post on Niagara -on -the -Lake) and heliocopter rides over the falls.

The rooms are spacious with the nice Marriott touches. There is a safe in every room and the bathrooms are quite large. The mezzanine restaurant, the Terrapin Grille, is not to be missed. The brunch is excellent (the omelets are particularly appealing). If  it is on the menu when you dine, try the trout. You will love it.

If you are a gambler, the Fallsview Casino is just a short walk away over a small bridge. On the way to the casino (see photograph below of the casino at  night) you will pass the entrance to a small incline that will take you down to the level of the falls.  It is well worth the small fee.  The casino itself is located in a spectacular building called the Galleria. In addition to the casino there are a number of fine shops and restaurants.We like the Canyon Creek steakhouse and the sushi restaurnt (located behind the high roller section) since both overlook the falls. The shops run from the Svarovski crystal to the everything is $10 variety.  On Friday and Saturday nights it gets quite crowded.  On the lower level is a food court with the ever popular Tim Horton's and a Mama Mia restaurant.  There are over a dozen altogether. For a late night snack or breakfast, we recommend "The Famous", an upscale diner with pancakes and sausages to die for. Don't forget the maple syrup!

In addition to the shops, restaurants and casino, there is a live theatre called the Avalon. It showcases talent from Canada and the United States.  It is a fairly intimate setting where almost every seat has a good view of the stage. Among many others, we have seen Jay Leno and Larry King. Both were amazing. Leno joked non-stop (I kid you not) for 90 minutes! I underestand he was recently  back there and wowed the audience I am sure. This summer Ringo Starr will be appearing. Tickets for the top shows can be hard to get, so start looking early.

My wife says the casino is the nicest she has been to---and I agree. It is large, filled with the usual slot machines (we favor the Wheel of Fortune machines) and table games. Keep in mind you can only use Canadian money in the casino so you will have to change your dollars before starting to play.

If you like a variety of things to do, whether sightseeing, dining on good food, gambling or just having fun, Niagara Falls is still the place to visit. Enjoy!