Being completely and utterly soaked to the core is a universal joy. Oftentimes, it doesn’t matter where we are splashing around — it’s just the act of getting wet that sets our faces grinning. Niagara Falls is built on our love of water and everything it does, which is why the city is a perfect destination for seekers of drenched delight. Until your vacation in Niagara Falls, meditate on these fantastic places to splash and soak, from the tiny to the monumental.

1. Waterparks

Hands down, the outright best place to get wet is at a waterpark. Waterparks are the standout winners because they combine all the best elements of every other wet and wild place in one intensely exciting location. Wave pools, sprinkler playgrounds, swimming pools, lazy rivers, and splashing water is abound everywhere one looks. Plus, unlike other areas on this list, the popular Niagara’s Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is ready to get travelers soaked no matter the weather. If you want to spend some quality time getting absolutely drenched, you can’t miss visiting a waterpark on your Niagara Falls vacation.

2. Oceans

Even people who live on the beach are easily awed by the power and splendor of the ocean. The great movements of the tides and the soothing sound of the waves easily lull onlookers either into a thoughtful calm or propels them into concentrated action. With the added bonus of beach-related activities (building castles, getting a tan) the ocean is a rewarding destination.

3. Pools

A pool can serve many purposes, which is why it is such a desirable place to spend time. A play area, an exercise space, and a comfortable lounge all rolled into one, a pool is definitely one of the simplest and most iconic places to find wet fun.

4. Waterfalls

These can be tricky to find, but once you do, they can be some of the most exhilarating soakings of a lifetime. Something about being completely covered in a sheet of falling water is both energizing and comforting. There are many attractions around Niagara Falls that will see you soaked to the core from the powerful rushing water:

• Maid of the Mist. This boat tour takes you up close to the bottom of Horseshoe Falls, where things are bound to get a little wet.
• Journey Behind the Falls. It should come as a given that when you stand mere feet away from the back of one of the largest waterfalls in the world, you will become wet.
• Cave of the Winds. While the cave is long since gone, this tour takes visitors virtually underneath American Falls for a thrilling waterfall experience.

5. Spas

The bane of grubby toddlers everywhere, the tub somehow transforms into the ultimate seat of luxury for most adults. At a spa, you can simply bask in the comfortable warmth of soothing water or even receive rejuvenating treatments to freshen and invigorate. Niagara Falls recognizes the healing powers of spas at the famous Christienne Fallsview Spa, where visitors can view Horseshow Falls in all its glory while lounging in a soothing infinity tub.

6. Lakes

Manmade or natural, these giant, still bodies of water are striking in their serene beauty. Lakes are versatile, in that they can be admired for their quiet serenity or explored using all manner of exciting water sports. Lake Ontario is one of the most popular Great Lakes due to its proximity to the Niagara region and all the joys contained therein.

7. Streams or Rivers

Water safety experts don’t always advocate playing in moving water; the unpredictability of the current and the shifting sediment below can create dangerous areas. However, rivers and streams where swimming and splashing is encouraged are always excellent sources of fun. Common water activities like tubing and fishing are most often located in moving water. Plus, especially turbulent rivers can be excellent places for sightseeing. Niagara’s Whirlpool rapids are some of the most dangerous in the world, and thousands of visitors travel each year to see them.