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I wasn’t born in Niagara Falls, but I may as well have been. My grandmother lived there — two miles from the infamous waterfalls — and I estimate I hit 100 visits by the age of 16.
When I moved to the region as an adult (now I’m 15 miles away), I spent my first summer leading hiking tours through the Niagara Gorge, showing our local wonders to visitors from all over the world. Suffice to say, I know more about things to do in Niagara Falls NY than most others.
QUICK TIP: Niagara Falls is not in Buffalo, NY but they’re only 20 miles apart. Buffalo is the closest major airport, the nearest large city, and you can easily see both destinations in a single trip.
Niagara Falls USA vs Canada
Which side of Niagara Falls is better? Without question, the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is more popular. There are more hotels (including some with views), it has a better angle for seeing Horseshoe Falls, and frankly, most of Niagara Falls USA is rundown.
But that doesn’t mean you should skip the New York side. This is where you’ll get up-close views of the American Falls. It’s also the launch point for my absolute favorite local attraction (Cave of the Winds, more details below).
As of August 2021 the Canadian border is open to American travelers…assuming you have a passport. If not, Niagara Falls USA is still a great option, not to mention the New York side is often cheaper to fly into and will save you long border crossings (Rainbow Bridge in particular can be terrible in peak summer season).
In a perfect world, you’d visit both sides of the border, but if you can only visit Niagara Falls NY, don’t sweat it.
Niagara Falls Waterfalls
There are actually three Niagara Falls waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
None of them are anywhere near the tallest waterfalls in the world. What makes them impressive is the insane amount of water that flows over them: the volume is roughly 700,000 gallons per second during peak season. Even in lower volume periods, it’s still mighty impressive.
Horseshoe Falls
Horseshoe Falls are the largest of the three waterfalls and are named for their signature horseshoe shape. These are also known as the Canadian Falls, even though they technically straddle the international border.
This is where the vast majority of the water plummets down 167 feet — something like 90% of the water flows over here.
American Falls
The next largest waterfalls are the American Falls, which lie entirely on the US side. They can be seen from both sides of the border.
Bridal Veil Falls
By far the smallest, the Bridal Veil Falls are still beautiful. These also lie entirely on the American side and are separated from the American Falls by Luna Island.
Things to Do in Niagara Falls (American Side)
Niagara Falls State Park (and Goat Island)
To see the waterfalls from solid ground, you’ll want to head to Niagara Falls State Park. There’s no admission although you’ll have to pay $10 for parking (half price in winter). My favorite lot is “P2”, which puts you on Goat Island close to viewpoints for the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. You can easily walk from here to Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist, as well.
Goat Island itself sits in the Niagara River, separating Bridal Veil from Horseshoe Falls. There are paved paths taking you to several observation points on the rim of the falls, views of the river rapids above the falls, and places to spread out with a picnic. Keep an eye out for black squirrels (they’re adorable!). For more views of the rapids, cross over to Three Sisters Islands.
Most people will want to spend an hour or two walking to all the viewpoints, snapping a hundred photos, and taking in the scenery. It’s worth going twice, once in the daylight and once after dark to see the falls lit up. There’s also a self-guided walking tour that you can access from a free app for trivia and stories.
Cave of the Winds
Cave of the Winds is a series of wooden staircases and walkways that take you to the base of Bridal Veil Falls. Only a fraction of the water flows over these falls, but seeing them at the base is an incredible way to witness their power. You WILL get wet here and the boardwalks can get slippery, so watch your step!
Hurricane Deck really does have crazy storm-like conditions (your poncho won’t do much here, as the water flows with such force it blows the hood right off of you). You can avoid walking up to this platform if you want, but it’s a blast if you don’t mind getting soaked. This section is closed in winter but it’s still worth visiting.
You can’t buy tickets online and it does sell out. In my experience, it’s best to get here early — you’ll get a timed ticket and if it’s a long wait, you can pass the time at the state park or other attractions.
Maid of the Mist
For the best view of the Horseshoe Falls without entering Canada, you’ll need to book a ride on the Maid of the Mist. This Niagara Falls boat ride leaves from the American side to sail to the base of the falls, offering fantastic views along the way. Trust me, you get closer than you’d expect!
This trip is a classic; it’s been running since 1848. And it’s been around a long time for a reason — it’s amazing to look up at Horseshoe Falls and feel the mist in your face. Okay, it’s more like a spray than a mist!
If you can, find a spot in the front left for your ride. That way you’ll get views of the American Falls as you sail toward Horseshoe Falls. (If you’re on the right, you’ll see them on the way back, but by then your camera might have water spots on the lens).
At the end of the tour, you can walk toward the base of American Falls for another perspective, which is a “poor man’s” version of Cave of the Winds.
PRO TIP: Both Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist provide free ponchos, so if you’re doing both in the same day, save yours to reuse and help the environment a little. On a hot summer day, you might choose to forego it entirely.
Whirlpool State Park
A few miles from the falls, and accessible by trolley if you don’t have a rental car, is Whirlpool State Park. This takes you away from the waterfalls and provides views of the rapids along the Niagara River. While you can see them from the upper part of the park, the real treat is heading down into the Niagara Gorge to get riverside.
Of course, to do so means heading down stairs (about 500 of them) and later on, you’ll have to climb up them all to return to the top. Still, this is a great way to get into nature. It’s about two miles round-trip to do the Whirlpool Rapids trail.
For a longer hike, I like to start at Devil’s Hole State Park and descend into the gorge from there. This trail isn’t nearly as crowded, but gives you nice views of the gorge rocks as you go down. The trail heads upriver, eventually bringing you to the Whirlpool Rapids, where you’ll head up, up, up the Whirlpool stairs and then return to your car via the upper rim (paved) path. Allow 2-3 hours.
Heads Up: The stairs at Devil’s Hole are closed due to a rockslide as of early September 2022. You can still access the river from Whirlpool State Park but my favorite loop hike is off-limits until it can be cleared.
Whirlpool Jet Boat Ride
As you walk along the Whirlpool Rapids, you’ll see a few boats zooming up the river, splashing in Class V rapids. That’s the Whirlpool Jet Boat and it’s every bit as fun as it looks. These boats leave from Lewiston, NY which is about a 20-minute drive from Niagara Falls State Park.
I didn’t think I’d like this jetboat as much as I did — the route took me parallel to where I’ve hiked many times. The ride basically repeats itself three or four times, playing in the same rapids over and over. Plus, it’s expensive. It gets your heart pumping though and it’s nonstop spinning, splashing, and smashing into the rapids.
If you’re going to shell out the money for this, go all-in with the “wet jet” boat. It’s open-air, so you’ll go home dripping wet, but it’s the only way to get the full dose of exhilaration. The dry “jetdome” boats are enclosed, keeping you dry, but kind-of defeat the purpose.
PRO TIP: While you’re in Lewiston, do yourself a favor and get a frozen custard at Hibbard’s while you dry off in the sun. The place has zero atmosphere, but it has really good ice cream.
Bonus Activities in Niagara Falls New York
There are a few other things near Niagara Falls USA that have nothing to do with the waterfalls:
Old Fort Niagara: This fort was built in the late 1600s and saw action in the French & Indian War, Revolutionary War, and War of 1812. They’ve done a great job at restoring it. There are staff in period costumes as well as musket demonstrations in addition to touring the fort sites. On a clear day, you might be able to see Toronto as you look across Lake Ontario.
Niagara Wine Country: The US version of Niagara wine isn’t as well known as Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario (Canada) but you could still spend a day or more visiting the 20+ vineyards. The wine trail is 30-60 minutes from the falls, so plan accordingly. If time is short, my two favorites are Arrowhead Springs and BlackBird Cider Works.
Art Alley: If you’re into art, take twenty minutes to view the street art at Third & Niagara Streets.
Buffalo is only 20 miles from Niagara Falls, so you can get more ideas in my Buffalo travel guide as well.
Where to Eat in Niagara Falls NY (local style)
My favorite restaurants in Niagara Falls, NY are all hole-in-the-wall joints. If that’s not your style, I recommend heading to Lewiston instead. It’s an easy drive from Niagara (or you can hop on the Discover Niagara shuttle) and the main drag is an adorable stretch of shops, cafes, and restaurants. I like Cask + Cow for gourmet burgers and Hibbard’s Custard for dessert.
But back to Niagara Falls restaurants:
Michael’s Restaurant: Michael’s is Italian-ish (Western NY sauce has a distinct flavor) but whatever you want to call it, the food is good and portions are huge. Do not miss the beans and greens soup — seriously — and then it’s a toss-up if you want the pillowy gnocchi or the overstuffed calzone.
The Why: There’s nothing unusual on the menu here, but this breakfast spot serves up meals fast, cheap, and early which is usually what I’m looking for if breakfast isn’t included at my hotel. You can get two eggs, home fries, toast, and coffee for $5.
Judas Tree: This new restaurant has a limited menu, but it does everything well. It’s a great spot for cocktails and appetizers and it gets more local traffic than tourists.
Suggested Itinerary for Niagara Falls (American Side)
If time is short, here’s how I’d spend one day in Niagara Falls USA:
- Head to Goat Island first thing in the morning, before the crowds arrive, and snap just 1-2 pictures without any strangers in your way!
- Go to Cave of the Winds. You don’t want it to sell out before you get a chance!
- While you’re still wet, head to Maid of the Mist. You’ll probably spend longer waiting in line than on the boat itself, but it’s worth it.
- Finish up at Goat Island and Niagara Falls State Park. If you started your day early, it’s probably time for a late lunch!
- After your lunch, drive from the falls area for either the Jetboat Ride or the Whirlpool Rapids hike. I like both, but when time’s short, you’ll have to prioritize.
- Head back toward the falls after dark to see them lit up. Though they’re lit consistently until at least 1 a.m., there’s a special five-minute “illumination display” at 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, and 12:30.
Where to Stay on the American Side of Niagara Falls
You may have read that Niagara Falls USA neighborhoods can get sketchy — that’s true, but nearly all of the local hotels are clustered in safe areas anyway. You’ll need to vet Airbnb’s more carefully.
Near the waterfalls, any of the hotels in easy walking distance are fine from a safety standpoint. My top vote goes to the Giacomo by Choice Hotels: walking distance to everywhere and a lounge with views of the Niagara River. But you could stay somewhere slightly farther and still be fine. You’ll find most chains all grouped together between 1st & 6th streets and can pick the brand of your choice without worry.
You’ll save some money by staying out by the outlet mall (another safe area). You’re about a 15-minute drive away from the waterfalls.
In Buffalo, I recommend Hotel Lafayette. It’s chic, central, and rooms are large. It can make a good alternative if you’re only popping in to the parks for an afternoon. Buffalo is about a thirty-minute commute.
Overall, don’t go out looking for trouble, stay sober, and trust your instincts if it feels “off” and you’ll more than likely be okay.
Any more questions about the American Side of Niagara Falls?
Hit me up in the comments below if you have other questions. I live twenty minutes away, have seen and done pretty much everything, and am always happy to help plan your trip.
Hi Becky, we’re heading to NF for Monday & Tuesday. We love to bike hike walk. I’ve been trying to find out more info about the bike trail section that comes from Buffalo through NF onto Rochester. We’re staying at a hotel on the NY side across from Goat Island. My plan is to ride our bikes from the hotel over to Goat Island, 3 sister island and back across and on to Whirlpool SP and Devils SP and walk the “steps” and other areas. I’ve been trying to find a map for the bike trail but haven’t had any luck. I think the trail is call Seaway. Thanks,
Barb
Hi Barb, there’s definitely a nice leisurely trail from the falls themselves to Whirlpool and Devil’s Hole. It won’t be a long ride but you’ll need to share the trail with potential pedestrians (it probably won’t be busy on a weekday).
I don’t know of a bike trail from NF to Rochester but the canal trail will definitely run from nearby Lockport into Rochester. I’ve done sections, but never the whole thing. Again, it’s leisurely and not necessarily built for road cyclists looking for speed. Still, a nice ride (at least the sections I’ve tried!).
Hi! Great info. My fiancé and I are trying to avoid air travel due to our jobs forcing us to self-quarantine without pay if we do so we were thinking of driving to Niagara Falls (NY side) for our honeymoon in December. What are some things to do (planning on visiting a winery or 2) during the winter? Is it worth going then at that time?
@Lauren, Normally December is a very festive month to come, with lots of decorations and events. Unfortunately, I’m still not sure how much of that (if any) will take place because of covid. If you come, I recommend doing Cave of the Winds and making sure you see the falls lit up after dark. Old Fort Niagara also has some events in December under normal circumstances but there’s no official word yet for 2020. If there’s snow, I think it’s also really romantic to go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing…lots of areas you could do it in, my favorite is Chestnut Ridge. Lastly, the town of East Aurora is super cute to stroll with some great shops and restaurants – bonus points that it’s a logical stopping point to Letchworth State Park (a great day trip, with or without snow, to see the gorge).
Great suggestions! Thanks for your post! We’re hoping to be in the Niagara Falls area for a day and a half this coming May. We were thinking of spending a half day on the American side of the falls and then a full day on the Canadian side. Would you agree with this plan? What would you prioritize if you only had a half day (afternoon/evening) on the American side? We would have four kids with us (ages 8-14) and we prefer hiking, being outside in nature, over museum-type displays.
@Charis, With a half day, walk around Goat Island (you’ll get very different view than from the Canadian side) and visit Cave of the Winds (there’s no equivalent on the Canadian side).
On EITHER side, I recommend doing a Maid of the Mist cruise (USA) or Hornblower cruise (Canada) – same thing, different companies. I’d also recommend a gorge hike; there are trails on both sides. Of course, see the falls from the Canadian side as well for a different perspective. You can view fireworks from either side as well (check dates/schedules closer to your travel dates).
On the Canadian side, the Butterfly Conservatory is a lovely indoor activity that feels like outdoors (good if it’s cold or rainy). The Botanical Gardens, right next to it, are also great. All of this combines well with some of the Canadian parks/hikes along the gorge.
Thank you. It looks like we’ll probably be staying on the American side only and will have about a day and a half now. Any other recommendations for the American side, since we’ll have more time on that side now?
Hi! This information has been very helpful. Couple questions. My husband, 2 dogs, and I are driving through NY over the holidays, and wanted to stop for one evening in Niagara Falls since we’ve never been. I’d love to do a real trip there eventually. First question on hotels. Due to the dogs, we can either stay at La Quinta in Niagara Falls, or in Buffalo. You said Niagara Falls could be sketchy. For those locations, which would you recommend? Second, we’d only be eating dinner and viewing the falls from the US side after dark. Any pub/tavern recommendations? Lastly, how do you recommend safely walking around and viewing the falls after dark? Would you still use parking lot P2? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!
@Bre, The LaQuinta is in a fine area near the outlet mall. Griffon Gastropub is by far your best option near the LQ but keep an eye on the NY government website and/or local news…the governor is expected to make a decision about whether or not to close indoor dining on Monday 12/14.
Parking in any of the official parking lots (including P2) will also be fine to go to/from your car. They are well lit and an easy distance to cover to/from the falls.
Thank you soooooo much!!
Hi Becky,
I’m planning on a several day visit for winter pics of the falls this coming week. Do you know if there are any helicopter tours available, or is that all shut down? Also, where is the best place on the U.S. side to get both the American and Horseshoe falls in the same photo?
@Dan, I have no idea if the helicopter tours are running but I’m sure a quick phone call would sort that out. There aren’t a lot of options to see Horseshoe Falls at all from the American side – The (paid) Observation Tower is your best bet.
The former Robert Moses Parkway is now gone but the route remains to pedestrians and cyclists and goes all the way north to Lewiston. I highly suggest this as a healthy way to view the majesty of Niagara, but not after dark. Its perfect for hikers staying at either the Sheraton or the Wyndham Garden hotels on third and first Streets. Also, Lewiston has walk-in accomodations.
Great info for anyone planning a trip! Thank you. My husband and I are considering this trip in late April. I’m concerned it will be too cold to be enjoyable. What are your thoughts?
@Lisa, The problem with a spring trip is that the weather here is fickle. It could be absolutely gorgeous but it could just as easily be cold and rainy. On the bright side, we had a really mild winter and have had several days over 70 already in March so the odds seem in your favor. How much do you like to gamble? You could win big with warm, sunny days and no crowds or you could find yourself scrambling to look for alternate, indoor activities.
Most years, I’d encourage you to take the gamble. This year, since indoor activities are limited and often require advance ticketing, it’s a little more complicated. Honestly, for 2021, I’d only recommend it if you have the ability to stay flexible. If you’re driving in and have refundable hotel reservations, check the 10-day forecast when it gets closer to your trip and make a decision accordingly.
Hi Becky, My whole family is coming to Buffalo and Niagara. We are staying at the Marriott and I would love to know of any other places to eat in Niagara. Also, Schwabl’s is not open on Sun or Mon and I want to go there based on your recommendation. Is it a really lengthy ride from Niagara to Schwabl’s (buffalo)? It has all the great local buffalo flavor and I don’t want to miss it. Any place like that in Niagara? And is there another igloo place to eat in Buffalo? Tappo’s is expensive and I have 3 kids so it’s really not worth it.
Thank You
@Marc, There are a lot of ethnic restaurants in Niagara Falls (that cater mostly to locals, zero ambiance) and a bunch of super touristy places (high prices, average food).
A few options:
1. The Rainforest Cafe in Niagara Falls has “ice caves” (igloo type dining), although they may be taking them down for the season at this point. You’ll need to call and confirm based on your travel dates. There are a few other places as well but as far as I know EVERYWHERE has purchase minimums rather than ordering off the standard menu.
2. Niagara Savor, is operated by Niagara culinary students. It’s a 3-course meal for $25 (kids menu $8, or have them share an adults entree since there will be plenty of food).
3. Duff’s, on Niagara Falls Blvd by the outlet mall, has good chicken wings + Buffalo’s famous beef on weck sandwiches so you can skip the long drive to Schwabl’s.
4. Griffon Gastropub, one of the few places that’s both locally owned and good food.
Hi Becky, thank you for the useful information. My wife has never been to NF and we’ll be visiting in Sept 2021. When I was there maybe 20 years ago, there was a porthole of sorts on the American side perhaps in a visitor center where you could see and HEAR the water rushing over the falls. It was maybe 5 feet in diameter and, for me, was the most memorable part, better than maid of the mist. But, I don’t see anything written about it. Is it still there?
@Chris, This isn’t something I’m familiar with but I’d be interested if you end up finding out! I can ask around a little and keep you posted if I dig anything up.
Hi! Great info! We are going in October to the falls. We are staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York and would like to go to the casino there. Are they close by one other and is that safe at night? Also, any shopping that you would recommend?
Thanks!
@SC, The DoubleTree is a 6-7 minute walk from Seneca Niagara Casino and should be safe to walk. Most of the shopping that’s right near the waterfalls is focused on souvenirs but it’s about a 10-12 minute drive to the outlet mall. For small, one-of-a-kind boutiques try Elmwood Village in Buffalo or Main Street in Williamsville, both about 30 minutes away.
Thank you for all of the helpful information. I have stayed on the Canadian side many times but with the border closed, I am going to try the New York side. I Read other comments from people saying they were going to do a day on each side. Is that still possible with the border closed? Thank you
@Amy, While the border is closed, it is impossible to enter Canada for tourism purposes and you will need to stay on the New York side. The border is officially closed until June 21 and will be re-evaluated at that time though everyone expects it to stay closed for the entire summer season.
This was very informative, thank you!
Im bringing a camp group in the summer and Im looking for a good viewing spot where they can see the falls lit up at night, I would also need to know where the buses can drop them off and how they can walk from the drop off point to the falls
thanks so much for your help!
@Yafa, You’ll be able to see the falls lit up from the same points that you’d visit during daylight hours – Goat Island and Terrapin Point is a personal favorite of mine.
For any bus questions, I’d recommend contacting the visitor’s bureau because I’ve only ever driven/parked a standard size vehicle.
Hi Becky, I’m going to Niagara Falls NY in July with 4 teenagers for 3 days (border is still closed until July 21st). Please let me know if Wingate by Wyndham Niagara Falls is a good place to stay. If not, what is your suggestion? Should I to rent a car if we fly to Buffalo airport? Do we need to book a tour for Maid of the Mist Boat ride, Cave of the Winds, and Illumination ? Thank you!
@Haily, The Wingate is in a fine location, walking distance to the waterfalls and the attractions you’ve listed. For the things you have planned, you don’t need a rental car but it can be helpful if you want to head either up toward Fort Niagara or Lewiston or south to Buffalo or if you want alternate restaurant options. Public transportation is really limited beyond the Niagara trolley route.
How dog friendly is NF? Where can I take my pup? Btw this was very informative and exactly what I was searching for to find out about NF!!! Thank you!!!
@Hailly, In general, this part of NY is more “dog tolerant” than “dog friendly”. The main NF State Park allows dogs, but it’s crowded in places and not really designed for them. I recommend the paved trail between Whirlpool State Park & Devil’s Hole or head to one of the parks farther north along Lake Ontario.
Hi! Hoping to visit NY side this fall with our dog. Are the trails at the State Park paved? And any suggestions on where I can get info on visiting with our dog?
Thank you.
@Christine, The trails are paved but it can be crowded (some dogs do fine in crowds, but not all do so just be aware). I also really like the paved walking trail along the gorge between Whirlpool & Devil’s Hole State Parks – park at either one and walk as far as you like. Less crowds, especially toward the Devil’s Hole side.
South of Niagara Falls, by about 20 minutes, Ellicott Creek Dog Park is my favorite in the region although sometimes dogs can get muddy because of the creek there. There’s an indoor dog park by Buffalo airport “Barkology” if you want to avoid the mess!
We are planning a trip to the falls, plan to stay at the Hyatt Place in Niagara. Is that area safe? I saw your comment about some areas are sketchy. lol
@Patricia, Totally fine – have a great trip!
We are arriving to the Buffalo/Niagara Falls area via Amtrak & the Depew station. What is the best & most economical way to get to Niagara Falls? Should we stay in Buffalo & is there public transportation to the Falls from there? We are not inclined to rent a car if possible. Is that trolly I hear about in Niagara Falls sufficient to get around Niagara Falls?
@Bernice, Once you’re in Niagara Falls, the trolley system heads to basically anywhere a tourist would want to go. Recommended. However, there’s not really public transportation TO the falls area, so you’ll most likely need to take a taxi or other ride service like Uber or Lyft, especially since you’ll have luggage with you.
can you tell me more what the Lewiston area of shops and eating place is like?
@Patti, Lewiston is a small town, more like a village. There are two main areas for eating, along the riverfront on Water Street (beautiful scenery, but food isn’t notable) and along the main drag (Center Street). The shopping is also along Center Street. It’ll only take about 20 minutes to walk from the river to the far end of Center Street, plus however long you spend popping into stores or stopping to eat. The restaurants lean more toward the casual end of things, many do not need reservations. Mostly American foods, burgers, BBQ, some Americanized versions of Mexican & Italian. During daylight hours, also bakeries and coffee shops.
Would you recommend the Hard Rock Cafe? Thanks!
@Barbara, It’s standard chain food. There’s nothing wrong with it but it’s not my style.
Great tips and information, thanks! We’ll be passing thru and will only have a half day unfortunately. We read about parking but noticed it says only until 5pm. How do we park to see the goat island past 5pm as well see it lit at night? If there’s off site parking, can you still walk over? I’d rather park at P2 but just want to make sure we won’t have to move after 5pm. Thanks again
@Nancy, I’ve parked there dozens of times in the evening and honestly never knew there were posted “hours” (maybe that’s just when they have a person at the booth to collect money? there are also automated credit card machines). However, there’s also street parking nearby, which I believe is $3/hr, and you can also walk from the Seneca Niagara casino parking garage (24hr). Several hotels are also in walking distance, if you’re staying overnight.
Hi Becky,
Your information is so helpful. I’m glad I came across it. For this December 2021, how is it? Is everything open? I have read its so beautiful around the holidays. What would be some kid friendly places to go to? Which hotels do you recommend that has views of the falls?
@Marci, Businesses are operating normally now (though some outdoor attractions, like Maid of the Mist, will be closed for the season in December). The only hotels with a falls view are on the Canadian side – if you’re headed that way, be aware of testing requirements. I’d recommend either the Marriott or the Embassy Suites there.
With kids, the aquarium is nice and the new children’s museum “Explore & More” in downtown Buffalo (30 minute drive) is fabulous.
Hi Becky, this article of yours has been so helpful so thank you for that. We are coming from NYC for a 5-night stay via Amtrak. I’m curious to know if it’s worth staying in Buffalo + a day trip to the falls or staying at the falls + a day trip to Buffalo? Thanks in advance!
@Heera, This time of year, Niagara Falls works better as a day trip since you won’t be able to access all the outdoor activities. I’d recommend staying in Buffalo (there’s also better walkability & public transport there – it sounds like you won’t have a car).
Hi Becky, Great article! I will be in Buffalo for just one night at the end of November but arrive that day at 1 pm so I thought I could take the rental car over for a couple of hours before dark. How would you recommend I best allocate my time? I have to be back in Buffalo by 7 pm. I’ve never been before and I know this is off-season and chilly but this might be my only opportunity as I don’t live nearby. I’ll bring my camera for sure. Thanks!
@Ken, Your timing will actually work out nicely to see the falls in both daylight and after dark (sunset is currently around 4:45pm). I’d recommend walking around Goat Island to take in a few different viewpoints while the sun’s still up. Make a mental note of your favorite to go back for after dark…my choice is usually Terrapin Point. There’s not a lot else to do this year other than enjoy the scenery since summer activities like Maid of the Mist are over but the ice at Cave of the Winds hasn’t built up yet. Enjoy your visit!
Thank you! I’m coming from Atlanta so I think I’ll bring my heavy coat!
We will be taking the Amtrak and just be staying overnight on the American side. Can you recommend the best way to get around? Do we need a car? We want to see the Falls lit up and have a nice dinner. Thank you!
@Linda, You can get away without a rental car, especially if you are going in the summer when the Discover Niagara shuttle is running (May-September). In the winter, be sure to pick a hotel within walking distance of the falls. There’s a nice steakhouse at Seneca Niagara casino that would also be in walking distance. For almost everything else, you’ll need a taxi/Uber.
Hello. Thanks for the info. I was planning on doing Maid of the Mist until I realized how tall the Observation tower is and the elevator is only entry. Not fan of elevator or heights. Any boat tours where this could be avoided? Or easily accessible places to see closely? Any activities there that 7 year old would enjoy?
@Andrea, Unfortunately there’s really no way to get to the base of the falls without an elevator ride. Because the falls are so tall, it’s a long way down and attractions aren’t set up for someone to take 12 flights of stairs (for example).
In addition to the parks, the Power Vista is fun for children and a great indoor option and Rainforest Cafe is a fun place to eat. There are tons of kid-friendly attractions on the Canadian side (mini golf, go-karts, etc) but as of April 2022 that still requires proof of vaccination and some paperwork prior to crossing the border.
Hi. I am going to be near Niagra with my daughters in mid-April and could arrive around 4:00pm. Will it be too cold? Is it worth visiting for a few hours? If yes, what should we do?
Thanks.
@Todd, April is hit or miss with the weather. For example, yesterday it snowed but two days before that it was in the 60s and sunny. So, you will have to play it by ear. If you arrive in time, the observation tower is open until 4:30 ($1.25pp). Otherwise, just enjoy walking around Niagara Falls State Park to take in the views. An hour or two is plenty.
BECKY! HELP! (LOL)
I planned a trip 9/19-9/22 with my young adult daughter whose passport has not yet arrived. We are flying into Buffalo from Atlanta but we’re scheduled to stay at The Vittoria, which is on the Canada side. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses are not available here right now, so even though we would be on a shuttle to get to the hotel, there is a chance that she wouldn’t be able to cross back over, correct? Even with a birth certificate and photo ID?
So, I am trying to find a great hotel on the US side ASAP and be content with the US views since I know they will still be AWESOME. We will miss going to the Butterfly Garden!
I guess my question is…do they check everyone on shuttles coming back into the US from the Canada side? And can we maneuver Rainbow Bridge at all?
Your blog and YOU are amazing!!! 🙂
@Deana, So sorry to hear of your troubles. You’ll still have a great trip! First, you may want to call 1-877-487-2778 and see if you can get a rush appointment for passport processing at the Atlanta Passport Office. It’s a long shot, but maybe worth a phone call. Secondly, I can confirm you will need a passport to enter Canada…and they WILL check every single person. You’ll need the same passport to re-enter the USA. This is the same at all crossings, including Rainbow Bridge.
The hotels on the US side do not have falls views from the room (the land directly near the falls is state park, so the hotels are set too far back for views). All of these hotels are easy walking distance to viewing areas, depending on your budget: Comfort Inn The Point, Hyatt Place, Red Coach Inn, The Cadence, Sheraton. Slightly farther but still doable walking distance: Hampton Inn, Doubletree, Fairfield Inn, Courtyard Marriott.
DO pay up for Maid of the Mist to get those epic Canadian Falls views without a passport!
Without the Canadian attractions to help fill your time, you may want to switch a night or two of your stay to Buffalo. Sadly we don’t have any butterfly gardens but there’s still plenty to do and I’m sure you’ll find something that clicks with your interests.
Becky, thank you so much for your helpful information. My elementary age son and I will be visiting in the next two weeks and our decision to spend our fall break at Niagara Falls was a relatively (for me at least) spontaneous one, so we do not have passports to visit the Canadian side. However, I know we’ll have plenty of things to do and while I have been to Niagara Falls a couple of times, I have yet to do Cave of the Winds, and am very looking forward to it this time.
Having read through this, I have a little concern about the hotel we chose–the Best Western Summit Inn. Any intel on this area? Do you recommend I look elsewhere?
Also, we are going to be able to catch one of the last fireworks displays of the year (assuming my son and I can stay up late enough after the drive). Since you recommend going to a night illumination, I assume the area is safe after dark (of course taking normal precautions I’d take anywhere). Should my fears be eased?
Thank you for the information and it looks like we’ll be having a very memorable fall break vacation!
@Toni, Hope you have a wonderful fall break! This is one of my favorite times of year, weather-wise and lack of crowds!
The Best Western Summit Inn should be completely fine. Be aware that you’ll have to drive/commute to the waterfalls themselves – it’s about 8 miles, so definitely not walking distance.
Any of the parking lots within walking distance of the waterfalls should be safe for illuminations and fireworks. I wouldn’t be out at 2am, but at 10pm there will be plenty of other visitors out and about, and the paid lots are lit.
Enjoy your trip!
Hi, Beeky . love to read your blog always.. Making a plan to this wonderful place . can you tell me what season is good to visit here.
@oneearth, My favorite time is from mid-August through mid-October (and September especially). Find more information in my seasonal guide to Niagara Falls.
Hello Becky,
I have been on many, many sites over the past three decades, so I’ve seen a fair amount of travel recommendation sites (some of them supposedly written by locals). Yours is clearly one of the very best, with great info and nicely organized and presented. I thank you for your efforts and clear writing style. My wife and I are considering a trip to see NF soon, so I started researching and am very pleased to have found yours. Thank you, and God bless you!
Hi! Is it possible to walk from US side to the Canadian side? Thank you! Great info you shared. I’m planning to stay at the Giacomo. Laurie
@Laurie, Yes, you can walk over the Rainbow Bridge between the U.S. and Canada. You will still need a passport. The bridge toll is $1, in your choice of American or Canadian funds.