If you are planning a trip to Niagara Falls, there is one attraction you absolutely cannot miss: Marineland Canada. This magical place houses countless marine and land animals, but it is so much more than zoo or aquarium. You could easily spend your entire vacation exploring everything Marineland has to offer, from its exhibits, to its shows, to its thrilling rides. Read on for more information about this winning attraction in Niagara Falls.
Beluga Whales
These beautiful arctic mammals are one of Marineland’s most popular exhibits, and it’s easy to see why. Beluga whales are spotless white, huge, and extremely friendly; they love meeting guests and playing in their tanks, which makes for excellent viewing. Marineland Canada has more beluga whales than anywhere else in the world, largely due to the abundant wild population in and around Canadian shores.
In Marineland, you’ll have the opportunity to learn everything and more about belugas, and for an additional fee, you can get up close to feed and interact with them. Guided by a trainer, you may have the opportunity to perform tricks with the whales — a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Killer Whales, or Orcas
The recent documentary “Blackfish” showed Sea World’s poor treatment of their orcas, but in Marineland, the animals are treated with much more reverence and respect; in fact, researchers at Marineland continue to study these important creatures to learn more about their unique social behavior and requirements. Killer whales have an especially developed emotional system in their brains, which means they are intensely social animals. You can observe Marineland’s orcas interact with one another in their tanks, and see for yourself how emotionally advanced and friendly these sometime fearsome creatures truly are.
The King Waldorf Stadium Show
You can watch and be amazed as Marineland’s marine mammals put their intelligence to work during this entertaining and awe-inspiring spectacle. Dolphins and whales jump, swim, and execute other feats impossible to humans, and sea lions and walruses perform hilarious acts that will see you doubling up in laughter. The show occurs many times during the day, so if you miss one while you’re oohing over the exhibits or rides, you can easily wait around for the next one.
Amusement Rides
After being inspired by the high-flying mammals of the sea, you can see yourself soaring through the air on any of Marineland’s myriad thrill rides. However, all rides aren’t built the same; you’ll get the most out of your experience if you know your limits when it comes to death-defying acts.
Visitors who prefer gentle rides or who are accompanying small children shouldn’t miss:
- Trivioli Wheel. A unique and exciting Ferris wheel designed with any and all guests in mind.
- Boat Carousel. A sea-themed merry-go-round to entertain kids of all ages.
- Lady Bug Coaster. A short and moderate coaster suited to younger children
- Space Avenger. A self-controlled whirling ride where you decide when to go up and down.
Those who can tolerate a bit more adventure may enjoy:
- Ocean Odyssey. Another whirler to amuse all family members.
- Viking Adventures. A rocking Viking ship that will throw you around like the high seas.
- Orca Screamer. A tower ride for those not as tolerable of heights.
Finally, adrenaline junkies can’t miss out on these world-class thrills:
- Skyhawk. A ride that takes you well into the atmosphere for excellent views of the park and surrounding areas.
- Flying Dragon. A coaster to scare even the stoniest of thrill-seekers.
- Dragon Mountain. The world’s largest steel roller coaster, spanning 30 acres and traveling through countless tunnels.
- Sky Screamer. The highest triple tower ride in the world, moving at breakneck speeds and jaw- and stomach-dropping heights.