Oakes Garden and Niagara Parkway Guided Walk from Casino Niagara, Optional Boat Cruise

This one-hour guided walk starts outside Casino Niagara, where a local guide meets the group, in English, for up to 15 travelers per booking. The total distance is about 500 m, on paved sidewalks and natural park paths, and a moderate level of fitness is expected. The first stretch crosses Oakes Garden Theatre, built into the contours of the land. It has a curved pergola overlooking a central amphitheater and a Japanese-style garden with a lily pond and a wishing bridge. The walk then follows the Niagara Parkway, with views of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls and the stories, legends and tips the guide adds along the way. At Table Rock Welcome Centre the group has a close view of Horseshoe Falls and time for photographs. The walk ends at Niagara City Cruises. The skip-the-line boat ticket is an option, seasonal from May to October, and it is not included unless selected. Guests with it put on ponchos and board Voyage to the Falls, which sails to the base of Horseshoe Falls, with views of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls as well. Summer weekends add a Fireworks Walk and Cruise, with a single evening departure. The tour ends at the boat dock, and guests arrange their own way back. Gratuities are optional. Meet outside the casino entrance on Falls Avenue, near the Hard Rock Cafe, 15 minutes before departure, and do not go to the boat: the tour does not start there.