What is there to do at Niagara Falls for free?

Yes, there's actually a decent amount to do for free, but you have to know where to go. The obvious one is just walking the Niagara Parkway and getting right up to the Horseshoe Falls—you can feel the mist and hear the roar without paying a cent. The best free spot is the Table Rock Welcome Centre area; you can stand at the railings and get soaked if the wind's blowing right. Also, Queen Victoria Park is free to wander, and it's gorgeous for pics, especially at night when the falls are lit up.

If you're up for a short walk, the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve trails are free to hike, but parking costs money unless you park further away and walk in. The Floral Clock and the Whirlpool Aero Car viewpoint (just looking, not riding) are also free. Avoid the "free" parking scams near Clifton Hill—those lots will charge you $30. Instead, park at the Niagara Parks Commission lot near the falls, which is free after 9 PM or on certain holidays, or find street parking a few blocks back. Honestly, the best free thing is just soaking in the falls themselves; the rest is overpriced fluff unless you're into cheesy souvenir shops.