Niagara Parks Floral Clock
A vibrant tapestry of nature and engineering, the Floral Clock is a blooming masterpiece on the scenic Niagara Parkway.
The Floral Clock, located on the Niagara Parkway in Queenston, Ontario, is a beautiful and unique attraction that blends horticulture and engineering. Built in 1950 by Ontario Hydro, the clock was inspired by a visit to the floral clock in Edinburgh, Scotland. However, the Niagara version is much larger, boasting a 40-foot diameter. The face of the clock is meticulously planted with 15,000 to 20,000 carpet bedding plants, arranged in intricate designs that change twice a year. In the spring, violas create a colorful display, while summer and fall feature alternanthera and santolina sage. The clock's mechanism is maintained by Ontario Power Generation, while Niagara Parks horticulture staff tend to the floral arrangements. Visitors can enjoy the Westminster chimes that ring every quarter hour from the tower behind the clock. The grounds also feature bedding displays and a water garden with koi and goldfish. If the tower door is open, you can peek inside to see the clock's inner workings and historical photos of past designs. The Floral Clock is located next to the Centennial Lilac Garden, offering ample free parking, washrooms, and a gift shop.
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or summer months to see the clock in full bloom with vibrant floral designs.
- Listen for the Westminster chimes that ring every quarter hour from the tower behind the clock.
- Take a stroll through the adjacent Centennial Lilac Garden, especially beautiful in late spring.
- Check if the tower door is open for a glimpse of the clock mechanism and historical photos.
A brief summary to Floral Clock
- 14004 Niagara River Pkwy, Queenston, Queenston, Ontario, L0S 1L0, CA
- +1905-357-2411
Getting There
-
Walking
From the adjacent Centennial Lilac Garden, the Floral Clock is a short walk. Follow the paved path towards the large clock face. The walk is less than 5 minutes and offers accessible pathways.
-
Public Transport
The WEGO Green Line bus stops at the Floral Clock year-round. From Niagara Falls, take the WEGO Green Line towards Niagara-on-the-Lake. The Floral Clock is a designated stop on the route. A 24-hour WEGO pass costs $13.00 for adults and $9.00 for children. Alternatively, from April to late October, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Shuttle connects to the WEGO Green Line at the Floral Clock, providing service to Niagara-on-the-Lake. An all-day pass for the Niagara-on-the-Lake Shuttle is $25 for adults and $15 for children.
-
Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available in the Niagara Falls area. A taxi or ride-share from Niagara Falls to the Floral Clock will cost approximately $20-$30 CAD, depending on traffic and surge pricing. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes.
-
Driving
The Floral Clock is located on the Niagara Parkway (14004 Niagara River Pkwy, Queenston, ON L0S 1L0), approximately 10 km (6.2 miles) north of Niagara Falls. From Niagara Falls, follow the Niagara Parkway north. The drive takes about 15 minutes. There is ample free parking available on-site.