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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Niagara Falls – What to Do + MAP

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Visiting Niagara Falls  is something you must do at least once in your life. Since Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother celebrated his honeymoon here more than 200 years ago, the place has been crowded with tourists. Even after all these years, this is one of the most impressive places on earth and something you must see with your own eyes.

If it’s your first time  going to Niagara Falls , be aware that the falls are on the Niagara River between Ontario, Canada, and New York state. The American side consists of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, while the Canadian side boasts the 164-foot Horseshoe Falls.

The ultimate guide to visiting Niagara Falls

Besides being beautiful, Niagara Falls also has an interesting history, as it was the first state park in the United States. In 1895, the world’s first large hydroelectric power station opened here, and just a year later the famous engineer Nikola Tesla unveiled his direct current (DC) system, changing the way Buffalo, NY lit up at night.

If you are thinking of traveling here, this article will include information about  what to do in Niagara Falls  so you can make the most of your visit.

How to visit Niagara Falls – Plan your Niagara Falls vacation

First, you should know that you can  visit Niagara Falls  from the United States or Canada . We visited them from both sides, and if you have time, I highly recommend doing it this way.

On the American side of Niagara Falls , you can enjoy beautiful natural areas, while the Canadian side of Niagara Falls has the best views of the most famous waterfall in North America.

If you don’t have time, don’t worry, because there are awesome attractions on each side that you can add to your  Niagara Falls itinerary .

In this Niagara Falls guide you’ll find:

Where is Niagara Falls?

• Which side of Niagara Falls is better?
• Niagara Falls map
• Things to do in Niagara Falls

Tours to Niagara Falls

Best niagara falls hotels.

Moreover, at the end of the article, you will find the most frequently asked questions related to a Niagara Falls vacation .

If you’re not sure  where Niagara Falls is located , it’s within the course of the Niagara River, specifically between the province of Ontario, Canada, and New York State. From the United States, the closest city to Niagara Falls is Buffalo, NY, about 20 miles away. To go to Niagara Falls from New York City , you will have to travel about 400 miles, which is about a 7-hour drive. But it’s completely worth it since it’s one of the best things to do in New York State .

Most people who take a  trip to Niagara Falls, Canada  do so from Toronto, which is a little over 90 miles away. That said, the cities of Hamilton and Mississauga are a bit closer, so they’re two other options .

Which side of Niagara Falls is better? – American side vs. Canadian side

If you’re short on time and can only visit one side of the falls, don’t worry. There are plenty of  things to do in Niagara Falls  on both the American and Canadian sides.

There is a huge push for  tourism in Niagara Falls , so below I’m including the highlights for each side. If you can, I recommend booking  this full-day tour , which goes to the most popular attractions in Niagara Falls, New York, and Ontario. Just remember to bring your passport and/or visa to cross the border.

Niagara Falls Canadian side

If you’re interested in sightseeing, a  Niagara Falls tour of the Canadian side  is your best choice. Not only are most of the tourist attractions there, but the views of the falls are better.

There are many  unique things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada , which is why many tourists say it resembles an amusement park. The mix of entertainment venues and leisurely outdoor spaces is a hit with visitors.

In Ontario, you can stand directly in front of the falls, and there are several hotels and casinos nearby. While these large accommodations are a bit imposing on the natural environment, the waterfalls provide a great backdrop while you’re staying overnight.

Niagara Falls U.S. side

For those who want more outdoor recreation and nature activities, a trip to  Niagara Falls, USA  won’t disappoint.

While the views of the falls aren’t as spectacular on the American side, there are still plenty of things to do around this beautiful natural environment.

For example, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the country, so it’s worth visiting. I’ll share more  Niagara Falls tips  later, but keep in mind that the New York side offers more opportunities to connect with nature and get some fresh air away from the crowds .

Niagara Falls map – your best guide for visiting Niagara Falls

To help you  plan your trip to Niagara Falls , you’ll want a map of the attractions on each side. This  map of Niagara Falls will help you quickly locate the most popular activities and landmarks in Ontario and New York.

Niagara Falls map – Your best guide for visiting Niagara Falls

As you can see on the map, if you’re  visiting Niagara Falls  for entertainment and tourist attractions, the Canadian side is best, while the U.S. side is much more natural .

Things to do and places to visit in Niagara Falls

If you’re still not sure where to  go in Niagara Falls , check out these main attractions in Canada and the United States.

Things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada

We also have more  Niagara Falls tips  in our guide to  visiting Niagara Falls, Canada . To make the most of our trip, we booked   this tour , which includes a heli-tour, Voyage to the Falls boat ride, a meal at Skylon Tower, and a few other activities. It was the best way to see the falls as a first-time visitor, so I highly recommend it.

Voyage to the Falls, the official Niagara Falls boat tour on the Canadian side

A  Niagara Falls boat tour  is one of the best ways to see the majesty of the falls. If you’re on the Canadian side, Voyage to the Falls is the best attraction, and you can get your ticket  here .

This tour gets you as close to the Horseshoe Falls as possible, giving you a one-of-a-kind view of the rushing waters. The boat goes through the Niagara Gorge and passes the American and Bridal Veil Falls before inching closer to the Horseshoe Falls.

The ride will leave you speechless, and you can either stay inside the cabin or put on a poncho and go out to the deck. If you’re interested in Voyage to the Falls and other attractions on the Canadian side, I recommend booking the  full-day tour  I mentioned earlier.

Journey Behind the Falls, the best way to get close to Niagara Falls

Journey Behind the Falls  is one of the top Niagara Falls tourist attractions. As the name suggests, it takes you just behind the Horseshoe Falls, offering one of the  best ways to see Niagara Fall s up close.

You’ll enter at the Table Rock Center next to the falls, then take an elevator 130 feet down to the underground tunnels. This is one of the most striking experiences that you can’t replicate anywhere else, so be sure to  book your ticket  in advance.

Have dinner at the Skylon Tower, the best thing to do at Niagara Falls

While you’re on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, be sure to visit Skylon Tower .

This  Niagara Falls observation tower  is nearly 520 feet tall, so it offers the best panoramic perspective of the waterfalls. Even the elevators, locally known as “Yellow bugs,” are fully paned in glass so you get stellar views.

If you are going to visit the Skylon tower you have two options:  reserve your ticket  to the 360° viewpoint, or dine at the Tower’s Revolving Dining Room or Summit Suite Buffet. Both restaurants have a great menu; we ate at the buffet and would go again, for sure.

We had dinner as part of this  combo tour , which also included the Hornblower cruise, Journey Behind the Falls, and a helicopter ride.

Zipline to the Falls, a fun thing to do at Niagara Falls

Soaring over the water on a zipline is one of the  top things to do at Niagara Falls , and an experience you won’t ever forget.

The Niagara Falls zipline travels almost 2,200 feet across the Niagara Gorge to the base of the Horseshoe Falls. While it can seem terrifying and not the best for people who suffer from vertigo, it’s completely safe and even has an automatic braking system.

You can take photos from the observation platform and even fly down the zipline at the same time as your friends. Just be sure to  book in advance  so you’re sure you can experience this activity when you visit!

Niagara Falls Helicopter Tour, the best way to visit Niagara Falls

For another aerial perspective, consider a  Niagara Falls helicopter tour .  This 12-minute flight  soars over the Niagara Whirlpool and the Rainbow Bridge, which connects the Canadian and American sides. You’ll also be able to see Queen Victoria Park, Skylon Tower, and all of Toronto from a birds-eye view.

A helicopter ride is one of the top activities that I recommend, and you can also embark on this adventure  from the American side . Personally, we went with the  combo tour  that also included a boat ride and dinner at Skylon Tower.

Enjoy the views from the Niagara SkyWheel

A trip to Niagara Falls, Ontario is not complete without a ride on the  SkyWheel . At nearly 165 feet tall, it’s the largest observation wheel in Canada. It’s in the nearby entertainment district of Clifton Hill and boasts amazing views of the falls and beyond.

A ride on the Skywheel lasts about 10 minutes, and the cabins are fully enclosed and climate-controlled, so you can ride comfortably all year round. If you’re wondering  where to view Niagara Falls at night , the Skywheel is the top choice.

It’s also a popular place to see the famous Niagara Falls fireworks, so I recommend  booking a ticket  in advance, especially if you want to ride at a specific date or time.

Things to do in Niagara Falls, NY

If you want to  visit Niagara Falls , NY, there are a few points of interest you shouldn’t miss. During our trip, we opted for  this tour  because it included all the iconic spots in just a few hours. We also have a guide to   visiting Niagara Falls, USA   that you can check out.

Terrapin Point at Goat Island, the best place to see the Horseshoe Falls

One of my to p Niagara Falls tips  is to get off the beaten path and check out  Terrapin Point Lookout on Goat Island . Since the lookout is on the western end of the island, you’ll get awesome views of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls and Niagara Gorge.

Goat Island is on the Niagara River, so you have to cross a bridge to get there. While you’re there, spend some time on the walking trails or check out the Cave of the Winds, another popular place for  tourism in Niagara Falls , which I’ll mention later.

Maid of the Mist, the official Niagara Falls boat tour on the American side

One of the best ways to experience  Niagara Falls, USA  is by taking a boat tour. The American tour is called the  Maid of the Mist  boat ride and is one of the most popular attractions on this side of the falls.

You’ll travel along the Niagara Gorge and make your way out into the Canadian waters briefly to get a spectacular view of the waterfalls before returning to the  Niagara Falls U.S. side .

The boats depart every 15 minutes, and the trip takes about 20 minutes. I suggest reserving a spot in advance or booking  this tour , which also includes access to the Cave of the Winds.

Cave of the Winds, the best thing to do on Niagara Falls’ U.S. side

The  Cave of the Winds  is another popular  Niagara Falls U.S. attraction . It’s a series of platforms that lead to the base of the Bridal Veil Falls, behind which you can see a natural cave that was discovered in the 1830s.

As you traverse the wooden bridges and stairs, you’ll make your way across the Niagara Gorge. Wear shoes with good traction and keep your poncho handy because you will get wet. The conditions as you approach the falls are similar to those of a hurricane, and the observation platform is aptly named Hurricane Deck.

Before descending 165 feet to the wet and windy platforms, you can explore The World Changed Here Pavilion, a multimedia exhibition that explains the history of Niagara Falls. We enjoyed this attraction and did it as part of this  half-day tour .

American Falls, one of the best places to visit in Niagara Falls

While the Horseshoe Falls in Canada are the most famous, the Bridal Veil Falls and American Falls are also very beautiful.

The  American Falls  are nearly 100 feet tall and are quite an impressive sight from the  U.S. side of Niagara Falls . The best place to see them is from the Prospect Point viewing area. You should also check out the view from Luna Island since it’s between the American and Bridal Veil Falls. The island isn’t that big or crowded, so it’s a unique place to see the U.S. waterfalls.

Old Fort Niagara, a must-see on Niagara Falls’ U.S. side

Old Fort Niagara  is another interesting place to visit on the U.S. side. It’s located in Youngstown, where the Niagara River flows into Lake Ontario. It’s about a 20-minute drive to get there, or you could book  this tour , which includes an optional Maid of the Mist ride.

The fort is a colonial fortification built by the French Empire in 1726. Along with the historic building, there is also a visitor center that functions as a museum. Everything is contained within Fort Niagara State Park, which supports  tourism in Niagara Falls . If you’re looking for some more natural sightseeing, this area is great, as there are several nearby hiking trails.

The best time to visit Niagara Falls

You might be wondering  when the best time is to go to Niagara Falls , but the truth is that this place is beautiful any time of the year. Depending on what you want to do and which attractions you want to see, one season may be better than another.

For example, all the tourist attractions are open in the summer, but it’s also the most crowded time to visit and it can get pretty hot. You’ll have to book your accommodation and tour tickets months in advance, and even then, it’ll be quite expensive.

If you decide to visit in the spring, you’ll be able to see some of the tourist attractions as well as get a cheaper price for a hotel. While it’s less crowded this time of year, the weather is unpredictable. We visited in May and were lucky, but you never know.

Fall is the  best time to go to Niagara Falls  if you’re more interested in the natural surroundings. The autumn colors and foliage are gorgeous, the weather is nice, and there aren’t many tourists.

Finally, you might not think that a winter trip to Niagara Falls is a good idea since most of the attractions are closed. However, when it’s cold and the falls freeze over, it makes for one of the most extraordinary sights, and it’s something we hope to see for ourselves soon!

How to get to Niagara Falls – parking at Niagara Falls

If you’re not sure  how to visit Niagara Falls , the easiest way is by car. Most people who  travel to Niagara Falls  in Canada arrive from Toronto, which is about 90 miles away. That said, the cities of Hamilton and Mississauga are closer, so those are two other options.

If you’re wondering  how far Niagara Falls is from New York City , it’s about a 7-hour drive. Those who visit the American side usually come from Buffalo , which is just 20 miles away from the falls. That isn’t to say that you can’t take advantage of a trip to NYC by also visiting Niagara Falls. Just be aware that it’s a very long drive and it may be better to book a tour. We’ll list some options below.

You can get a rental car for your trip or go in your own vehicle, but you’ll run into the problem that parking isn’t free at Niagara Falls. On both the American and Canadian sides, you must pay for parking, unless your accommodation has a free parking lot. Considering this, it might be easier to book a tour that includes transportation or hotel pick-up and drop-off .

If you don’t have your own car or don’t feel like driving, you can get to Niagara Falls from Toronto, New York, and Buffalo by booking a tour that includes transportation. Here are the best options :

Niagara Falls from Toronto

There are two  Niagara Falls tours from Toronto  that I recommend.

If you want to go straight to the falls, I recommend  this tour , which goes to the most iconic attractions like Skylon Tower, Niagara Parkway, and the Niagara Whirlpool. Along with incredible views of the falls, you’ll also get a wine tasting.

Another option is  this night tour  with a boat cruise. In addition to seeing the falls up close, you’ll experience Niagara Falls’ magical evening lighting. The tour also includes a few tourist attractions and a wine tasting, so it’s the perfect choice if you don’t mind returning to Toronto after dark.

Niagara Falls from New York City

There are several great  Niagara Falls tours from New York City , depending on how much time you have.

My first choice is this  one-day bus tour   with admission to the Maid of the Mist and a few other attractions.

For those who have more time, I recommend  this two-day tour . Along with a ride on the Maid of the Mist and other interesting attractions, on your way to Niagara Falls you will stop at Watkins Glen State Park. This package also includes a nighttime viewing of the falls and an overnight stay at a hotel.

Finally, you might be interested in   this three-day tour , which includes a visit to Niagara Falls and several Toronto attractions.

Niagara Falls from Buffalo

Lastly, if you’re looking for a  bus to Niagara Falls from Buffalo , NY,  this  is the best option. Unlike the tours from Toronto and NYC, this booking is for transportation only, so you’re free to visit the falls and attractions that interest you.

I suggest spending at least one night in Niagara Falls so you can enjoy the beautiful lighting and fireworks. Seeing the falls in the evening is a totally different experience that you shouldn’t miss. If you’re looking for  hotels in Niagara Falls , here are the top recommendations.

Hotels in Canada at Niagara Falls

We stayed overnight  at a Niagara Falls hotel in Canada , the  Sheraton on the Falls , and the views from our hotel room were incredible. As this is one of the top accommodations in Niagara Falls, I suggest booking your room in advance.

Here’s more information on the Sheraton and other top  hotels on Niagara Falls’ Canadian side :

Sheraton on the Falls

I have to start with the  Sheraton on the Falls  because it really blew us away. The rooms are great and some of them offer spectacular views of the waterfalls. While these particular rooms are a bit more expensive, it was worth it to us to get stunning views from the comfort of our bed.

Sheraton on the Falls, one of the best hotels in Niagara Falls, Canada

Also, the hotel is home to the  Fallsview Restaurant , which serves buffet and a la carte meals. The accommodation’s facilities also include shops, a spa, and a Starbucks. Plus, the hotel connects to the  Niagara Casino and Fallsview Indoor Water Park , so on top of a great location, you’ll have all the amenities you want.

We loved staying here and think it’s one of the most beautiful hotels on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview

If you’re looking for luxury, the  Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview  is a perfect choice. The accommodation is just 300 feet from the falls, so it offers a convenient location and unbeatable views.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview, another hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada

The hotel also boasts awesome amenities like a breakfast buffet and complimentary drinks and snacks. Besides the hotel rooms, the facilities include a couple of restaurants (TGI Fridays and Keg Steakhouse), a Starbucks, an indoor pool, and a gym.

From the hotel, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the Skylon Observation Tower, so this is one of the best places to stay if you want to be close to the action.

The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls

The  Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls  is aptly named, as it provides wonderful views of the Canadian falls. The hotel has an observation room where you can enjoy incredible views without the crowds.

The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls, a hotel overlooking Niagara Falls, Canada

It’s next to the  Falls Incline Railway , which connects to  Table Rock  and  Journey Behind the Falls . Along with its nice location, this accommodation has rooms with waterfall views, although they cost a bit more.

That said, if you stay here, you can take advantage of some great amenities, such as a living room with a fireplace, an indoor pool, a hot tub, a sauna, and a fitness center. There is also an Applebee’s on the premises.

Tower Hotel at Fallsview

The  Tower Hotel at Fallsview  is another beautiful accommodation in Niagara Falls, Canada. Along with comfortable rooms, the hotel also has a decent restaurant, so it’s quite a bargain for the price.

Tower Hotel at Fallsview, fine lodging in Niagara Falls, Ontario

If you’re not sure  where to go in Niagara Falls, Ontario  for more quiet lodging, this hotel is the best choice. You’ll get the rest you want, and you won’t have to pay too much.

Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites

The  Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites  is another top hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada, that I recommend. It’s centrally located so you’ll have easy access to the area’s attractions and restaurants. Some of the rooms have views of the falls, too.

Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites, another good hotel in Niagara Falls, Canada

This hotel also connects to the Fallsview Casino, so it’s a great place to stay if you plan on visiting the casino in the evening.

Hotels in Niagara Falls, NY

We also stayed at a  Niagara Falls hotel  in New York. which was nice because we arrived at night. We spent a restful night in our hotel room and got up early in the morning so we could go straight to the attractions.

Our room was at the  Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino , and although the views weren’t as impressive as the Canadian hotel, if you ask for a room on a high floor, you’ll get beautiful views of the falls. You can even see the Niagara Falls fireworks without leaving your room.

Here’s more information about the Seneca resort and other top  hotels on Niagara Falls’ American side :

Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino

The   Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino  is one of the best hotels to stay in while visiting New York’s Niagara Falls. The resort includes a casino, fitness center, sauna, massage services, a hot tub, an indoor pool, a cafeteria, and several restaurants. Our room was beautiful and immaculate. It’s all-around one of the best hotels on the American side of Niagara Falls.

Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, one of the best hotels in Niagara Falls, NY

Best of all, it only took us 20 minutes to walk to Terrapin Point, one of the top  places to visit near Niagara Falls, USA . If you stay at this hotel, I suggest requesting a room on an upper floor. While you can’t see the falls directly from the hotel, you’ll get beautiful views. Plus, you can see the nighttime fireworks from your room, which is convenient if you don’t feel like going out!

Hyatt Place Niagara Falls

If you’re looking for another good hotel to stay at in Niagara Falls, USA, the   Hyatt Place Niagara Falls  is a great option.

This accommodation is located a little closer to Niagara Falls on the U.S. side, which is very convenient. Also, it is next to Old Falls Street, a small entertainment district where you’ll find great good, shopping, shows, and family activities. If you’re not sure  what to do in Niagara Falls, New York , you can always go there.

Hyatt Place Niagara Falls, a good hotel in Niagara Falls, USA

Hyatt Place Niagara Falls is also close to the Rainbow Bridge, which you can take to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.

While the prices are similar, this hotel isn’t as nice as the Seneca Resort, but it’s still a good option if you need a place to stay overnight.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York

The   DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York   is another accommodation that I recommend on the American side of Niagara Falls. While it’s a bit further away than the previous two hotels, the location is still very good.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York, another hotel in Niagara, New York

The rooms come with nice amenities and they’re very spacious. Some of the rooms offer lovely views of the Niagara River, while others overlook the city. I suggest requesting a riverside room, as it’s a more pleasant view.

Overall, this is a hotel in Niagara Falls, USA, that you can book without hesitation. It’s comfortable, affordable, and clean.

Sheraton Niagara Falls

The   Sheraton Niagara Falls   is one of the hotels in Niagara Falls, New York, that I recommend if you want to be close to the falls without breaking the bank. While it’s not the cheapest option, the price is quite good for the location.

Also, the hotel has a connective corridor to the Seneca Resort, so it’s super easy to go to the casino and enjoy some of the facilities.

Sheraton Niagara Falls, a place to stay in Niagara Falls, USA

The unique thing about the Sheraton hotel is its Reed Beach Club, which has the largest indoor pool in Niagara Falls. So, not only is this a good place to get some rest, but it’s got plenty of amenities to keep you entertained during your stay.

Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls

The last hotel that I recommend is the  Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls , which is a great option for travelers on a budget.

Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls, decent lodging in Niagara Falls, NY

For an inexpensive hotel in Niagara Falls, USA, the location isn’t bad at all. Plus, it’s the best choice if you’re planning on walking over to the Canadian side of the falls since it’s just five minutes from the bridge.

8 Tips to visit Niagara Falls

If you’ve read this far, you should have all the information you need for a  trip to Niagara Falls . Still, I’m including some final tips here so you can make the most of your visit.

1. Plan to visit both sides of Niagara Falls

Instead of wondering  which side of Niagara Falls is better , plan to visit both the American and Canadian falls.

The easiest way to see both sides is by crossing the Rainbow Bridge. That said, you’re still crossing an international border, so you need the proper documentation, such as a passport,  visa or Electronic System for Travel Authorization . You can check below what type of documentation you need.

If you’re renting a car, check first to see if they allow you to enter another country with the rental vehicle.

2. Book at least two days to visit Niagara Falls

Both sides of the falls are interesting and worth visiting, so make sure you book plenty of time. At least, I recommend spending two days visiting Niagara Falls, and that should give you time to check the most important attractions.

3. Stay in a hotel with a view of Niagara Falls

While there are different  Niagara Falls hotels  on the Canadian and American sides, I highly recommend booking a room with a view of the falls. Fortunately, several hotels offer waterfall views, so try to reserve one on a higher floor.

On the Canadian side, the hotels with the best views are the  Sheraton on the Falls ,  Embassy Suites ,  The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls ,  Tower Hotel at Fallsview , and  Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and Suites .

If your  Niagara Falls itinerary  includes an overnight stay on the American side, I recommend the  Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino . Just be sure to reserve a room on a higher floor so you can fully see the falls.

4. Leave everything that can’t get wet in the car/hotel

There are some areas where it’s impossible not to get wet by the  Niagara waterfalls , even if you wear a poncho. That said, don’t let a bit of splash and spray deter you from getting an impressive view of the falls.

One of the best  travel tips for Niagara Falls  is to leave behind anything that could be damaged by water. Either keep it in the car or your hotel room or seal it in a waterproof bag if you’re keeping it on you.

5. Take the helicopter tour of Niagara Falls

A  helicopter tour of Niagara Falls, NY  is an unforgettable experience and the best way to get a good look at the falls. I recommend  this tour  from the American side. While it’s only a 10-minute flight, every second is mesmerizing and you can get a sense of the falls’ magnitude.

If you’re on the  Canadian side of Niagara Falls , I suggest booking  this tour . The 12-minute flight soars over the Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls, and the helicopter is one of the quietest of its kind.

6. Arrive early to find a good spot to watch the Fireworks

The Niagara Falls fireworks are one of the most popular things to see on summer evenings. The show starts every night at 10 pm, although you’ll want to find a spot 30-40 minutes beforehand. If you’re not sure where to view Niagara Falls at night , I suggest the Skywheel (at the Canada side) or Prospect Point (at the American side).

7. Treat yourself to a Niagara Falls buffet dinner

Most Canada  Niagara Falls itineraries  include a visit to Skylon Tower. Besides being a wonderful viewpoint overlooking the falls, the Tower has two excellent restaurants: the Revolving Dining Room and the Summit Suite Buffet.

We ate dinner at the buffet, and we would definitely eat there again. It’s one of the  top things to do at Niagara Falls , so be sure to  book a ticket  to the Tower in advance. Or do what we did and take  this lunch tour  with a helicopter flight and boat cruise.

The Top of the Falls Restaurant is another place where you can eat while enjoying incredible views of the falls. This one is on Goat Island, on the American side.

8. Come back to Niagara Falls in winter

As I mentioned, the  best time to go to Niagara Falls  depends on what you want to do and see here. While the summertime is popular with most tourists, there is something special about visiting in the winter.

There are way fewer tourists, the prices are lower, and the atmosphere is calmer and more peaceful. That said, I don’t recommend a winter trip for your first time in Niagara Falls since most of the attractions are closed.

Is Niagara Falls worth visiting?

If you’re still wondering if a  visit to Niagara Falls  is worth it, I would say, without hesitation, yes!

While the  best time to visit Niagara Falls, NY  is in the summer, this is also when it’s the most crowded. If you’re  planning a trip to Niagara Falls, Canada , budget enough money and days so you can get to everything.

Despite all the planning and calculating involved, this is a place that you must see at least once in your life.

FAQs about visiting Niagara Falls

While our guide to Niagara Falls includes everything you need to know, check these frequently asked questions if you have any other concerns.

Where did Niagara Falls get its name?

The name ‘Niagara Falls’ originates from the Iroquois language of the indigenous peoples of North America. Niagara means “thunder of water” and refers to the thunderous sound that falling water makes.

Where is Niagara Falls located?

Niagara Falls is between Canada and the United States in North America, specifically within the course of the Niagara River.

How tall are the Niagara Falls waterfalls?

There are actually three waterfalls at Niagara Falls: the Horseshoe Falls (164 feet), the American Falls (99 feet), and the Bridal Veil Falls (79 feet).

Where does Niagara Falls’ water come from?

Niagara Falls’ water comes from four of the five great lakes: Erie, Huron, Michigan, and Superior.

Will Niagara Falls run out of water?

No, unless the course of the river changes, Niagara Falls will not run out of water.

When did Niagara Falls stop flowing?

Niagara Falls dried up in 1969 when the United States Corps of Engineers diverted the river that flows into the falls.

How often does Niagara Falls freeze?

It is very difficult for Niagara Falls to freeze completely, although the temperatures have dropped low enough four times for this to happen. During the winter months, you can see blocks of ice and snow on the falls.

Where can I view Niagara Falls at night?

If you want to enjoy Niagara Falls at night, two of the best places are Queen Victoria Park in Canada and Goat Island in the United States.

Now you have all the information you need to start planning your trip to Niagara Falls. If you have any questions, you can leave a comment below, and I will try to help you as quickly as possible. Remember that we also have a specific guide to Niagara Falls in Canada and another about Niagara Falls, New York .

I know that you’ll enjoy your visit to Niagara Falls; just don’t forget your raincoat! Safe travels!

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10 replies on “ The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Niagara Falls – What to Do + MAP ”

Is it more cost effective to book tours or do the activities on your own? We like to move at our own pace and not sure a tour itinerary is worth it.

Good question. It depends on what you want to see. Visiting the attractions on your own is generally cheaper, but there are many tours and excursions that offer discounted rates and additional benefits like guides, snacks, etc. Hope that helps!

I am so happy after reading this information because I like to enjoy traveling too much. But this time I will decided to enjoy cheap tours las vegas with family.

That sounds great! Believe it or not, there are lots of family attractions in Las Vegas , so I’m sure you’ll have a great time!

Greetings! I’m planning to go to Niagara Falls this summer. How can I obtain a free travel guide? Please let me know. Thanks. God bless! 🙂

Hi Ricky, You can request a free travel guide to the U.S. side of Niagara Falls and the Canadian side of Niagara Falls via this website .

What’ is like in May to visit & west are Covid restrictions if any? Are booster shots & vaccines mandatory? What’s the closest airport to the Canada side Marriott or Hilton at the falls?

Hi Eileen, May is a wonderful time to visit! The weather won’t be as hot and there should be fewer crowds. Niagara Falls is following current COVID restrictions, but proof of vaccination isn’t mandatory. The closest airport is the Niagara Falls International Airport.

Is everything still open like the first week in September? Or should we plan for an August trip? This will be our first trip to Niagara Falls.

Yes, everything will be open the first week of September. Enjoy your visit to Niagara Falls. You’re going to love it for sure!

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The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

10 Essential Niagara Falls Tips: Everything You Need to Plan Your Trip!

Last Updated on: 19th June 2023, 06:40 pm

Are you planning a trip to Niagara Falls or thinking about scheduling a visit?

This North American wonder situated on the border of New York State in the US and Ontario in Canada is the perfect outdoor weekend getaway.

Whether you road trip to Niagara Falls or visit on a day trip, there’s so much to do here! Here are my best Niagara Falls tips to help you plan your Niagara Falls getaway. 

So if you’re looking for how to plan a trip to Niagara Falls, look no further!

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My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2024

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Things to Know Before Visiting Niagara Falls

Here are my best tips for planning a visit to Niagara Falls!

Things to Know about the Niagara Falls Waterfalls

Niagara Falls is three separate waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls (Canadian Falls), American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

While Horseshoe Falls is the most impressive and famous, it’s the only one of the three on the Canadian.

You can see all three Niagara waterfalls from either side of the border, so whether you choose to visit Niagara Falls, New York, or Niagara Falls, Ontario, you won’t miss out on these gorgeous waterfalls!

Know Which Side of the Border You are Planning on Staying

While many people can cross between New York to Ontario (or vice versa), not everyone can. Further, there are times when the border might be closed.

This means it’s important to know which side of the border you want to stay on and choose accommodations and tours that are on this side of the falls.

During normal times, many people will plan to visit both sides of the falls on a trip, but you still want to think through if you will stay in the US or Canada. 

Which side is better? They are both great! New York has a state park right at the falls, so it’s better for nature lovers and people who want to hike.

If you want to experience the kitschier version of Niagara Falls, you can still cross over and visit the Canadian side as long as the border is open and you have the proper documentation.

Splurge for a Hotel Room with a View

If you can afford it, spring for a room with a view! Niagara Falls is stunning from above, and you won’t regret waking up to a scene like this every day!

You Might Need a Passport and a Visa to Visit Niagara Falls

If you do want to spend time on both sides, you will need the correct documentation to cross over. You should check your government for entry rules.

If you are an American wanting to visit the Canadian side, you can start with my guide to planning a trip to Canada  and make sure to check with the State Department’s guidelines for traveling to Canada for current Canada travel advisories and rules about getting an eTa for entry.  

Even if you are staying in New York and want to cross the border for a day trip, you will still need to ensure the border is open, bring your passport, and check to see if you need to get an eTa ahead of time.

For Canadians who want to cross over into New York, you need to check the Canadian government’s USA travel page for rules and entry requirements.

If you are planning on visiting Niagara Falls and you are a citizen of a country other than the US or Canada, check with your government.

Just keep in mind that if you want to visit both countries, you will need to check the required documentation for both separately. The US and Canada do not form a continuous travel block and have different entry requirements.

Plan Your Cell Phone and Data Needs in Advance

On my last trip to Canada, I tried to purchase a prepaid sim card and found out that having prepaid data for four days was going to cost me over $100!

Whether you live in the US, Canada, or abroad, make sure to preplan your data so that you don’t end up without coverage for part of your trip. You also want to avoid roaming fees, which can be quite expensive.

Start by checking with your home provider to find out how much international data would be.

It’s possible that if you are an American staying on the New York side and only want to see Canada for one day, that it might not be worth getting data for such a short amount of time. You can always seek out wifi when necessary.

Plan Your Niagara Falls Activities Ahead of Time

Something I didn’t realize beforehand was just how long the lines are for some of the most popular attractions.

You don’t want to leave it to the last minute to book or you could find yourself having to miss out on some of the things you want to do the most!

The 3 Best Niagara Falls Tours that Leave from the New York Side

Because of the different tours available on each side of the border, you need to pay attention to where your tour leaves from and pick the one closest to you.

Here are the most popular activities in Niagara Falls that leave from the American side. You can also use this list of Niagara Falls New York tours to see if there’s something more unique you’d like to do.

See all New York Niagara Falls Tours

The Maid of the Mist Boat Tour is iconic for a reason. If you are staying in New York, this is the boat ride you want to book!

The Maid of the Mist is blue and can be seen from above the falls. The boat gets up close and personal, so dress to get wet! The quintessential Niagara Falls Experience!

Check availability, reviews, and pricing.

If you want a little more drama on the water, you can a Lewiston Jet-Boat Tour that gets you even closer to the water by speeding you through the Class 5 rapids of the Niagara River. Adrenaline lovers, take note!

Check availability, reviews, and pricing .

One of the best parts of going to Niagara Falls is seeing the falls lit up at night! Check out this Niagara Falls, USA: Night Illumination Tour to see the best angles of the falls at night.

The 3 Best Niagara Falls Tours that Leave from the Canadian Side

The Canada side offers different tours. Here are the most popular. You can also use this list of Canada Niagara Falls tours to see if there’s something more unique you’d like to do.

See all Canadian Niagara Falls Tours

The Voyage to the Falls is the Canadian side’s answer to the Maid of the Mist.

This is the most popular tour to do on the Canadian side and a can’t-miss. Book your tour along with other great Niagara Falls sightseeing!

Another important tour you won’t want to miss on the Canadian side is the Journey Behind the Falls where you can get behind them and appreciate the falls from a whole new perspective.

If you’re interested in experiencing the Niagara River’s rapids, you can do so on the Niagara River Jet-Boat Tour.

Other Things to Do in Niagara Falls

The greater Niagara region is a great place to explore if you have time! You can learn about the history of the local Underground Railroad, try Ice Wine, visit Amish country , go shopping for Niagara Falls souvenirs, and more!

There’s enough here to spend at least a long weekend away, though you could stay even longer!

Read next: 17 Perfect Niagara Falls Souvenirs & Gifts that Belong in Your Suitcase!

What to Do in Niagara Falls at Night

Besides enjoying a nice dinner, the falls are a great attraction for visitors who want something beautiful (and even romantic) to do at night.

They are lit up in neon colors, making them visible after dark. You can even catch fireworks displays above the falls during certain summer nights!

If you like going on tours at night (like I do!), you should check out the best tours of Niagara Falls at night.

Check reviews, prices, and availability.

5 Things to Pack for Your Trip to Niagara Falls

The   Lonely Planet New York  or  Lonely Planet Canada   guidebook (depending on your plans). It can be kind of a pain to find the major guidebooks once you land, or you’ll find them overpriced. I always like to pick mine up ahead of time.

Backup Charging Bank  for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS, and general travel genie.

A Camera  since Niagara Falls is super photogenic. I use a mix of my  Nikon D810  and my   Samsung8  smartphone these days.

A Waterproof Passport Holder so that if something happens while you are on a tour or near the falls, your passport doesn’t get wet. I’ve seen people denied boarding on flights due to wet passports, and you can technically not be allowed to go over the border. 

A Great Day Bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc).

My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe , which is especially great for Niagara Falls because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets.

It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day. 

More Niagara Falls Travel Resources

If you are still in the process of planning your trip, check out my  Niagara Falls itinerary . Once you’re there, you can use these great  Niagara Falls quotes  and  Niagara Falls puns  for photo captions and statuses, plus check out these ideas for Niagara Falls souvenirs.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for Niagara Falls make sure you have a valid  Travel  Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I pay for  World Nomads,  and I happily recommend them. It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’ll be hanging out in popular tourist spots like Niagara Falls.

I have been a paying customer of  World Nomads  for travel insurance for four years, and I happily recommend them.  If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you’ll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what’s stolen or broken.

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Niagara Falls: 4 Mistakes to Avoid & What to do Instead

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When we took our first trip to Niagara Falls more than a decade ago, I was convinced it would be our last. It wasn’t that impressive, the area seemed kind of tacky and in three hours we felt like we’d seen more than we really needed to.

It turns out we were doing it wrong. We made plenty of Niagara Falls “rookie mistakes”, but fortunately I learned from them and our visit at the end of our epic New York/Canada road trip . Our second trip to Niagara Falls was far more successful, so I’m here to share what I’ve learned along the way: the best things to do in Niagara Falls and what not to do in Niagara Falls. You’ll also find out where to stay in Niagara Falls, how to get around Niagara Falls Canada and more in this Niagara Falls trip planning guide.

Where to stay in Niagara Falls (Canadian side)

I’ll discuss the reasons why more below, but I strongly recommend that you get a hotel on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. There are a few features I’d look out for that are specific to staying overnight in Niagara Falls, and in my opinion a clear winner .

• Falls view: The point of staying overnight in Niagara Falls is to have an amazing view at all hours, so don’t skimp on this! If you’re using a hotel comparison engine to narrow things down by price, they generally show you the cheapest available room rather than the room with the view you want – prepare to do some digging.
• Accessibility to Niagara Falls viewing area: The vast majority of Niagara Falls hotels with a view are located along Fallsview Blvd. However , that’s up a fairly steep hill from the platforms along Niagara Parkway and there’s basically just one pedestrian route connecting them – Murray Street.
• Breakfast: In 2022 none of the hotels were offering free breakfast, and it showed. I kid you not that the line at the closest Tim Horton’s was out the door and all the way along the outside wall of the shop at 9am! For 2023, it looks like complimentary breakfast is back on at many hotels. If you’re planning ahead for a visit during the busy summer season, try to book a hotel that will serve a quick breakfast and get you out the door and on your way to the top Niagara Falls attractions.

Speaking of planning ahead, the good rooms at best hotels in Niagara Falls do book up early! Don’t miss out on a room with a view of Niagara Falls, especially if you’re visiting in the summer.

So which hotel do I think you should stay at in Niagara Falls? To me the winner is Embassy Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview – which is not where we stayed . The Embassy Suites has a front-and-center view of both the American and Canadian sides for the nighttime light show, and it’s one of the best hotels where you can see the Niagara Falls fireworks! It’s one of the tallest hotels in Niagara Falls, so there are lots of opportunities for an excellent view. The hotel includes free breakfast and an evening manager’s reception, plus there’s a Starbucks in the lobby.

The other piece that makes the Embassy Suites a stand-out is the Niagara Falls Incline Railway in its backyard. Instead of hoofing it all the way to the Casino and traversing the steep hill of Murray Street, you can pay a few dollars to be deposited right where you want to go: the main viewing platform for Niagara Falls and the Niagara Falls Welcome Center. The Incline Railway is a miniature funicular and you can buy unlimited rides for just over $6 CAD per day. While the Niagara Falls Incline Railway is available to anyone willing to pay, the convenience for Embassy Suites guests is just unparalleled.

Check prices on these sites to make sure you get the best deal on the Embassy Suites in Niagara Falls:

If the Embassy Suites is so great, why didn’t we stay there? First, because I didn’t fully realize how isolated most of Fallsview Blvd is from Niagara Parkway (and when we arrived late at night the hotel clerk didn’t mention that we could shorten our walk by catching the Incline Railway). But second, I booked relatively last-minute for a holiday weekend and the cost would have been much more than I was willing to swallow.

As a compromise, we stayed up the street at the Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview . Check out our view above! In addition to the cheaper room, parking cost a reasonable $25 CAD compared with $70 CAD at Embassy Suites (yes, you read that right).

The Radisson isn’t nearly as tall as many of its neighbors and it’s located behind them (specifically this one ), but they do offer several rooms (including ours) with excellent views. Check out our view here! It flies a little “under the radar” compared to some of its neighbors so you may be more likely to score a deal compared with other Fallsview hotels. The staff was very helpful and the kids couldn’t get enough of the enormous polar bear in the lobby.

Check prices for the Radisson Niagara Falls here:

A final option to consider is the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel . It underwent a massive renovation within the last few years. It offers great views of Niagara Falls if you select the right room – be careful when booking because some rooms don’t even have a window (which I’ve never actually experienced at a hotel). If you want to see Horseshoe Falls, you have to select either “Fallsview” (preferably high floor) or “Canadian Fallsview Corner”.

One reason lots of families like the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel is that it’s directly connected to the fantastic Fallsview Indoor Waterpark. When you book directly through Marriott you can select a package that includes tickets. The waterpark has fun for all ages and is open (and heated) year-round.

If none of these strikes your fancy, this handy map should help you find a great hotel that meets your location needs and budget:

Niagara Falls Mistakes to Avoid

Want to have an amazing trip to Niagara Falls? Be sure not to make these mistakes – including a few that we’ve made in the past .

DON’T: Stay only on the American side

On our first visit to Niagara Falls, many years ago, we were driving from Buffalo and made a quick stop en route to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Stopping on the American side of Niagara Falls made sense for our plans so that’s what we did.

Unfortunately, the view from the American side of Niagara Falls is… incomplete. You can’t see all of Horseshoe Falls, and you’re standing right next to American Falls so that you can’t see all of that either when you’re in Niagara Falls State Park. When you’re debating Niagara Falls Canada vs New York, the winner is clear.

The only reason to skip the Canadian side of Niagara Falls in favor of the American side is if you don’t have a passport or you’re in a huge rush coming from the New York. If you have enough time, feel free to stop at both!

I won’t go into depth on the tourist attractions in Niagara Falls NY, but you’ll want to check out both Maid of the Mist and Niagara Falls observation tower (which extends over Niagara River Gorge) so that you can see American Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Under the encouragement of Frederick Law Olmsted, the area surrounding the falls was wisely preserved as America’s first state park so there are plenty of beautiful free viewpoints.

Book a photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in the photos since I’m always behind the camera. We use Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking with this link or using code FAMILYVOYAGE.

DON’T: Get sucked into a scam

Confession time: on that ill-fated first trip to Niagara Falls, we didn’t do any research. We were just taking a quick side trip from Buffalo and we assumed everything would be straightforward. Go take in a view point, take a ride on Maid of the Mist and then move on to Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Everything seemed fine as we pulled into the parking lot at One Niagara Welcome Center (pictured above so that you can avoid it) – it offers some of the cheapest parking in Niagara Falls New York. But once in the lot, we were funneled into the massive, official-looking building in order to access the Falls.

Since they advertise attraction tickets we asked to buy tickets for Maid of the Mist. They were happy to sell us tickets, but told us that the only way to go on Maid of the Mist was as part of a tour to see several Niagara Falls sites. That was an out and out lie, but we only found out after we had paid and been herded onto a shuttle bus that took us miles away (with other unsuspecting tourists) to see some other part of the Niagara River. At the end of the tour, more than an hour later, we were dropped off at the actual entrance to Maid of the Mist and handed bulk-purchased tickets.

Needless to say the experience left a bad taste in our mouths, as we felt we’d been cheated of our time, our money and our preference to be independent travelers. Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York State and has the infrastructure to match – just don’t get suckered.

Read more: How to make the most of 24 hours in Toronto

DON’T: Spend all of your time mobbed by tourists

The most popular place in Niagara Falls, Canada is the walkway between the Table Rock Visitors Center and the boarding area for Niagara City Cruises, then continuing up to the Clifton Hill entertainment area. It’s packed!

Don’t be afraid to get away from the crows to have a different Niagara Falls experience. We found it much more peaceful on either end of Niagara Parkway (closer to Rainbow Bridge and near the Niagara Parks Power Station ). After being packed like sardines on a 700 person boat, finding ourselves virtually alone in Bird Kingdom was a welcome change – more on that below!

Another great way to avoid huge crowds is to visit Niagara Falls in winter !

DON’T: Leave after just a few hours

While you could get a quick taste of Niagara Falls just by looking out from the platform and taking a boat tour, you’d be missing out! Seeing Niagara Falls illuminated at night, getting below the Falls, watching fireworks over the American Falls, checking out an aerial view of Horseshoe Falls… there’s just so much to do that it’s worth spending at least 1 day in Niagara Falls.

We arrived in Niagara Falls mid-afternoon and departed just before lunch the following day. That allowed us enough time to see the Falls both day and night, and also minimized our crowded, tourist-priced meals.

Even if you’re only exploring the Niagara Falls American side, it’s still worth catching the unique side view of the illuminated American Falls before checking into your Niagara Falls New York hotel for the night.

Niagara Falls Things to Do

We’ve gone over what not to do, but what are the best things to do in Niagara Falls? Here are a few absolute “musts” along with Niagara Falls tips to ensure everything goes smoothly for you. Don’t forget to slow down and enjoy how pretty the area is!

DO: Get a room with a view

I’m not normally a hotel splurger, and I hesitate to even call our one night at the Fallsview Radisson a “splurge” at just over $300 USD. But there’s truly something special about seeing Niagara Falls from above during both the day and night. I even went to sleep with the window shade up a bit so that I could watch the light show on Horseshoe Falls from bed.

Since I went over the Fallsview hotels I recommend above I won’t rehash them now, but be sure to review those options carefully. Here are a few quick picks:

• Embassy Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview
• Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview
• Map view with more options

DO: Take a boat tour

One of the most classic things to do in Niagara Falls is a boat tour, either Maid of the Mist on the New York side or Niagara City Cruises (formerly Hornblower) on the Canadian side. The two Niagara Falls boat tours are basically the same except for the departure point and the Canadian boats are a little nicer in my opinion. They both cross in front of the American Falls and then proceed into the thundering water of Horseshoe Falls for a drenching. Thankfully both boats give visitors a poncho to stay dry – red on the Canadian side and blue on the American side.

How long is the Niagara Falls boat tour? Surprisingly, it’s only about 20 minutes. But allow plenty of time for the complete “experience” if you’re visiting Niagara Falls in the summer – from the time we got in line to board to the time we disembarked it was a solid hour, plus a few more minutes waiting for an elevator back to the top.

What should you wear for Maid of the Mist or Hornblower? On a small adult carrying a backpack, the poncho goes to about knee length. I chose to wear shorts and waterproof shoes to avoid walking around soggy for the rest of the day. The ponchos extend much further on kids obviously, so only their shoes were exposed. One kid wore Keens while the other wore these boots and both stayed dry and comfortable.

Where is the best place to stand on a Niagara City Cruise? We took our Niagara Falls cruise in the afternoon, and it worked out great to park ourselves near the front of the boat a little toward the American side. We had a fantastic view of all three waterfalls for almost the entire boat ride and didn’t have the sun in our eyes except for a brief time at the end (when we were already soaked from Horseshoe Falls and didn’t care).

Can you take a baby on Maid of the Mist or Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower)? There’s no age restriction on children riding the Hornblower/Niagara City Cruises/Maid of the Mist. However , you need to think carefully about how you’re going to bring your baby on board. The provided ponchos do a very good job of keeping your upper half dry, but wouldn’t be safe for babywearing since they’re totally unbreathable.

The family next to us actually brought their entire stroller/car seat travel system on board but quickly seemed to realize it wasn’t a great choice: absolutely everything was soaked as soon as we got near Horseshoe Falls and there’s a risk that their car seat will develop rust and/or mold if not properly drained and air dried very quickly. At some point they took their overwhelmed and unhappy baby out of her car seat to hold her and they did their best to hold the slippery poncho around her. I’m not sure there’s really a great way to take a baby on a Niagara Falls boat tour but hopefully this at least gives you some food for thought.

DO: See Niagara Falls from different perspectives

The water flow rate over Niagara Falls clocks in at a cool 750,000 gallons per second . It is truly jaw-dropping and a place you have to see.

But one of the most fascinating things about Niagara Falls is that it looks completely different depending on where you’re standing. Give yourself time to check it out from different angles! Obviously be sure to stop at the main viewing areas along Niagara Parkway – there’s a reason this area is the most popular place to view Niagara Falls.

I’d recommend heading to the far ends of town for a more unique perspective in addition. For instance, if you head over toward the Falls from the Niagara Parks Power Station (more on that later) you can actually get right near the water before it tumbles over the cliff… and then you can get down to the bottom of the Falls too.

Closer to (of even on ) Rainbow Bridge on the opposite side of town you’ll get a wider perspective on the Falls. You can also get that broader – and higher – perspective from the top of Skylon Tower standing 775 feet above the Falls. Be sure to check this Groupon for discounted tickets!

DO: Consider your transportation options

The simplest way to visit Niagara Falls is by car. That’s straight-forward if you’re on a road trip, but if you’re flying in you’ll want to arrive in Toronto (2-2.5 hours depending on traffic) or Buffalo (45 minutes plus time to cross the border).

While Buffalo Niagara International Airport is closer, flights may be more limited an expensive – for example, our home in Columbus is much closer to Buffalo and in the same country, but Buffalo flights are more expensive and inexplicably require a stop. Greater Rochester International Airport faces the same challenges and is even further from Niagara Falls, though it’s a good gateway to visiting the Finger Lakes NY .

Keep in mind travel document requirements, which vary based on exactly how you get to Niagara Falls, Ontario.

• Flying into Toronto: Everyone needs a valid passport book
• Flying into Buffalo and crossing overland: Adults need a passport book, passport card, enhanced drivers license ( not the same as Real ID ) or NEXUS card; children under 16 only need a birth certificate

Why does this difference in documentation matter? If you’re planning to visit Niagara Falls with kids and your family doesn’t travel overseas with any regularity, it may be cheaper to fly into Buffalo since only the adults need a passport and they may have access to less expensive alternatives.

Once you get to an airport in the region, you can consider either renting a car or taking one of the many shuttle options from Toronto or from Buffalo . Which option is right for you depends a bit on what you intend to do – if you just want to spend a day or two at the falls, don’t plan on driving or you’re staying at a hotel with crazy expensive parking then the shuttle option maybe be a great fit.

Within the town of Niagara Falls, you can walk to some locations, take the hop-on/hop-off WEGO tourist bus (particularly the blue line) or drive and park as need be. If you have a rental car, you may want to park it at your hotel as soon as you arrive in Niagara Falls and then walk or take WEGO everywhere. Daily parking at most lots that are anywhere near the falls is $25-30. I paid it one day because it made logistical sense for our plans, but it definitely hurt!

If you’re thinking about the bus, WEGO Niagara Falls bus fare in 2022 is $10 per 24 hours for adults and $7 per child. You can also combine it with a daily package for the Niagara Falls Incline Railway at $6 per day. These options are all reasonably priced, but if you’re traveling as a family then parking in one of the convenient lots may just be the most sensible choice. In the photo at the top of this section, you can see where the Incline Railway, WEGO and parking all meld together near the Table Rock Welcome Centre.

DO: Visit some less popular attractions

It seems like there are a thousand different Niagara Falls attractions – some good, some bad and apparently some ugly . This time around we managed to have a few fantastic experiences that most tourists overlook.

Niagara Parks Power Station

The  Niagara Park Power Station  just opened as an attraction in summer 2022, so it’s still a little bit of a hidden gem. It was the first major power station on the Canadian side of the Niagara River and (other than added explanatory posters) still looks much like it did when it was operational. I highly recommend the guided tour, which explains how the falls were used to generate electricity, the fascinating history of the power plant and how it impacted the entire Niagara region.

After the tour, you’ll take a glass elevator down 180 feet and then walk the half-mile tunnel that used to carry water back into the Niagara River at the base of the falls. The viewing platform adjacent to Horseshoe Falls provides a fantastic perspective. It’s not as immersive as Maid of the Mist and Niagara City Cruises, but without the sheer power of Niagara Falls blinding you with its spray.

We spent about 2.5 hours at the Power Station including the guided tour and tunnel. The tunnel is cooler than it is outside, so you’ll want to throw a sweatshirt in your bag to be prepared or wear a long sleeved shirt. There are ponchos available (you can see them in yellow in the photo above) in case the wind picks up and brings spray toward the platform, but it’s less common than on the boat tours.

Bird Kingdom

We often prefer to visit locally-themed attractions when we travel, but an Ontario family we met over the summer convinced me that Bird Kingdom was well worth a visit. They were absolutely right! Be sure to add this to your plans for a family vacation to Niagara Falls, Canada.

Before I tell you how great the experience is, it’s good to know that Bird Kingdom is accredited by the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums – their residents come from other zoos, from the Species Survival Program, from surrenders by private owners and other ethical means. It’s run professionally and prioritizes animal welfare.

Now that the critical stuff is covered, our experience at Bird Kingdom was just as lovely as our Canadian friends promised! Even though we visited on Sunday afternoon of a holiday weekend, we were just about the only people there. We spent tons of time privately enjoying the company of parrots, macaws and other exotic birds while peppering their human caregiver with questions about their behaviors, personalities and care. The kids and I were all enthralled!

The biggest claim to fame is that Bird Kingdom is the world’s largest indoor free-fly aviary. You can easily spend an hour watching a huge variety of birds flying around just being birds! There’s also a fun opportunity to feed the adorable lorikeets.

Thankfully Bird Kingdom has its own two-level parking garage that costs a very reasonable $3 per hour! You pay at the machine with a credit card and just pop the receipt in your windshield. Because Bird Kingdom is past the Rainbow Bridge, it’s much quieter than everything closer to the Falls. We parked our car there and made the quick walk over to Niagara City Cruises, then came back after the boat ride to spend an hour with the birds – Bird Kingdom is open until 6:30 in the summer (last admission 5:45).

We found the cheapest ticket prices through their (permanent?) Groupon using one of the frequently-available coupons to save on local activities.

DO: Drive for food if you need to

As I scoured Yelp for the best Niagara Falls restaurants, I was struck by the high prices and mediocre reviews paired with exhausting wait times reported for nearly every spot close to the Falls or the popular (and ultra-crowded) Clifton Hill entertainment area. Since I have no tolerance for that combination of traits, I asked some locals where to head for a better experience.

The universal suggestion was to head to the Lundy’s Lane district, about 3km from Clifton Hill. It’s a quick drive but offers better restaurants and little to no wait time even when we visited on a crowded holiday weekend. We had a nice, quiet Thai meal at Micah’s Bistro . Another recommended option is Italian restaurant Carpaccio just across the street.

The great news is that if you’ve chosen to rely on WEGO to get around Niagara Falls, you can take the red line to Dorchester Road to access some of these good restaurants in Niagara Falls.

For a truly special dining experience, head to nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake for dinner at HOB NOB . It’s housed in a restored 1832 Victorian manor that’s also the location of The Charles Hotel . We dined there for our anniversary what seems like a lifetime ago and it remains a memorable experience! While I know I suggested above staying in Niagara Falls and I still stand by that, I’ll forgive you for choosing the romantic charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake instead.

DO: Explore the rest of the area

The Niagara region of Ontario and western New York offer so many wonderful sites to explore! It would be a shame to overlook them. Even within just a few minutes of Niagara Falls there are a few places that should be on your radar for a Niagara Falls itinerary:

Niagara-on-the-Lake

On our first visit to the area we stayed overnight in this charming village just 15 minutes north of Niagara Falls, Ontario. It offers beautiful scenery along Lake Ontario, great dining and wonderful wineries to sample. The local specialty is ice wine, which benefits from the cold winters.

To avoid driving yourself from winery to winery, check out these two unique tour offerings:

• Small group wine tasting tour – Includes visits to three hand-selected wineries to showcase a variety of styles and sizes
• Vine and Dine winery bike tour – During our visit we saw just how bike-friendly the region is, so this will be our pick next time! You’ll visit four wineries and enjoy a picnic lunch all while getting in your exercise for the day.

Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center

While most of this article showcases things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario, there’s one spot that’s on my personal “to visit” list for Niagara Falls, New York: the Underground Railroad Heritage Center . We missed it only because it wasn’t open the day we were on the New York side of Niagara Falls! This is a must-visit if you’re considering a 4 day Niagara Falls itinerary, which would give you plenty of time to explore both sides.

This region played a critical role in the search for freedom by self-emancipated Black Americans. Translation? Even as formerly enslaved people traveled up the East Coast or through Ohio away from “slave states”, the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 kept them at risk as long as they remained in the United States. Thousands of people flooded across the Niagara River Suspension Bridge to reach safety and freedom in Canada – you can read more details here .

At the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center you’ll learn the stories of individual freedom seekers and pay homage to their lives through a unique art, interactive exhibits and more. Guided tours are available morning and afternoon most days of the week.

Visiting Niagara Falls Canada FAQs

Niagara Falls is the connection point between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. It straddles the border between southern Ontario, Canada and western New York State.

The Canadian side of Niagara Falls affords a more complete view and robust tourism infrastructure for visiting Niagara Falls.

If you don’t have the time or documentation to cross the border to see Niagara Falls’ Canadian side, it’s still worth a quick visit to the American side.

You can get a great taste of Niagara Falls in 24 hours.

While Americans do not need a passport to see Niagara Falls from New York, you do need a passport, passport card, NEXUS card or enhanced drivers license to access the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.

It’s possible to plan a car-free trip to Niagara Falls as long as you budget for transportation from a nearby airport.

If you’re trying to figure out how to get from NYC to Niagara Falls, you first need to recognize that they’re nowhere close to each other: the drive time is almost 7 hours if you don’t hit any traffic. The best way to get to Niagara Falls from NYC is to fly to Buffalo and hop in an Uber or grab a rental car .

Where to go next

It’s easy to extend your trip to Niagara Falls with these great options nearby!

• 9 Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls in the Winter (by a Local)
• An Incredible New York & Canada Road Trip
• How To Make The Most Of One Day In Toronto
• 10 Unmissable Things to do in Montreal
• Where to stay in Montreal with kids
• Quebec City Itinerary: 3 Days of History, Beauty and Beyond
• Whale Watching in Quebec: The Perfect Day Trip
• 8 Awesome Things to do in the Finger Lakes with Kids this Summer
• Watkins Glen State Park Hiking Tips
• How to Spend Your First Weekend In Pittsburgh and Love Every Minute of It

Still planning? Pin this for later!

What to read next

12 thoughts on “niagara falls: 4 mistakes to avoid & what to do instead”.

Can I fly into Buffalo and stay in Canada??

Hi Cynthia,

Absolutely! But you’ll need a passport to cross the border.

Safe travels, Melissa

I must say that shared information is really good. I will try to visiit this fall again!

My family and I just came back from the Falls and had a wonderful time. I wish I saw this well written blog prior to our stay, such valuable information!!! Definitely do Maid and the Mist that was extremely fun for the my family. Enjoy your trip and thanks for this insightful information, which I will definitely us upon our return.

I’m so glad you guys enjoyed all of the things to do in Niagara Falls!

Safe travels,

My daughter and I are in Toronto for just four days, and I rented a car from 6 PM Thursday to 6 PM Friday so we could drive out to London to see Western University. I thought about trying to cram in the most American thing ever… a drive-by visit to Niagara Falls!

Thanks to your article I was able to make a plan that worked fine. We left downtown Toronto at 6 AM, arrived at the Falls at 7:30 AM, turned towards the power station and parked in the tour bus only lot that is just 50 yards from the best view of all. No one is out enforcing anything at that time in the morning, so we got a few photos and a video and made it to Western with half an hour to spare. On the return trip we got the car back with another half hour to spare.

Couldn’t follow your recommendations to really take everything in, but it’s better to have seen it than not, yes? I thought it was so majestic at that hour, though very misty.

That’s a quick trip but I’m glad you made it there!

Enjoy your next adventure,

Such great information! We’re planning a trip next summer. Thanks for taking the time to write all of this out.

I’m so glad you found it helpful! Have an amazing trip to Niagara Falls.

Hi Melissa, planning our first family trip to Niagara Falls. Planning to visit both the US and the CAN side. From research, it seems choosing to stay in a hotel on the CAN side is preferred. We are flying from Louisiana. Should we fly into Toronto (YYZ)? 2 hour ride to get to Ontario. However, I don’t know if it would be feasible to fly into closer Niagara Falls Airport (IAG) then cross the Rainbow Bridge with all four of us pulling our carryon luggage to get to our CAN hotel. Thoughts?? Thank you. Really informative blog!

Hi Melanie, thanks for stopping by! The bridge is pretty long and I wouldn’t choose to cross on foot with luggage. Are you renting a car? It’s simple to cross by car.

Nice post. This wasn’t what I was searching for but I still liked reading it.

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20+ Insider Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls From a Local

Niagara Falls is arguably the biggest tourist destination in Ontario, Canada. People come from all over the world to see this magnificent beauty. Considering I was born in the Niagara Region, I’ve definitely taken the Canada side of Niagara Falls for granted. Growing up in St Catharines, the go-to adventure for any visiting out-of-towner was Niagara Falls. This turned from day trips to overnight adventures as I got older, and I’ve learned a thing or two throughout my visits and I’m spilling the beans with my insider tips for visiting Niagara Falls!

Wondering if you should visit Niagara Falls? I 100% say yes! It’s a given for any Canadian bucket list whether you’re from the country or otherwise. Niagara Falls is ever-changing with new restaurants, attractions, and more. This means you can easily have a different adventure each time you go!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links where I may receive a kickback at no extra cost to you. It helps keep IBB alive so thank you !

The only thing that comes with a tourist mecca is the tourist traps which can really take a toll on your bank account. I don’t want you to come and say aww man, these are the things I wish I knew before visiting Niagara Falls . So hopefully these tips from a local should help you plan your Niagara Falls visit!

SOMETHING TO NOTE: Before I dive in, I want to clarify that these tips are for visiting the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. While there is plenty to do on the American side, that will have to wait for another post.

Who Can Resist the Beauty of the Horseshoe Falls?

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Niagara Falls Tips for Planning Your Trip

Before we even get to your Niagara Falls vacation, let’s talk about planning your trip. We all know a fair amount of planning goes into every adventure so let me help you make the most of it.

You Will Need a Passport

Niagara Falls is a popular destination for Canadians, Americans and international travellers alike. A popular question is “ Can I visit Niagara Falls without a passport? ” If you’re travelling within Canada whether that be by air, train or car, it is possible to visit without one. However, if you’re visiting from outside of Canada, you will need a passport to enter the country . It doesn’t matter whether you are crossing by land, air or sea, a passport valid for at least 6 months past your visit is required to enter Canada.

Check to See if You Need an eTA

You also might be required to have an Electronic Travel Authorization or eTA in order to enter the country. This costs $7 and you can apply online on the Government of Canada website . One thing to note is that there are a number of scam websites out there that will try to sell you the eTA for upwards of $50. Don’t fall for it! ONLY apply via the Government of Canada website and you should never pay more than $7 for it.

Things International Visitors Should Watch For

While this might be obvious to some, I know I’ve been caught a few times by these when crossing the border and I’m sure I’m not the only one! Niagara Falls might be just a short drive and border crossing for some of you, but it’s still in another country which could mean some additional fees you might not be aware of! If you’re travelling from within Canada, feel free to skip this section.

Tolls for Bridge Crossings

If you’re driving to Niagara Falls from the USA, you’ll be crossing one of four bridges. Each bridge has a toll that you will be required to pay in order to cross into Canada. The cost depends on the size of your vehicle as well as if you have a valid Nexus Card. I’d recommend having either some Canadian or US cash on hand so you’re not caught by surprise!

Watch for Pesky Roaming Charges

Another thing to look into is your cellphone carrier. The last thing you want to do is rack up an insane bill because of roaming fees! It’s not uncommon to find wifi at hotels and restaurants within Niagara Falls, I wouldn’t depend on it. I highly recommend looking into a roaming package with your cellphone provider to ensure you keep your costs at bay!

Check For Credit Card Fees

While cash is widely accepted, chances are you’ll be using a credit card during your visit to Niagara Falls. It’s easy, convenient and you don’t have to worry about exchanging more money than you need. However, you’ll want to look into your credit card and see what your bank’s rate of exchange is and if they charge any additional fees . In the long run, it might be worth exchanging a set amount of money rather than relying on your card.

When You Should Visit Niagara Falls

One of the most expensive elements of a trip is accommodation and it can get pricey, especially during the peak summer season. Visiting in the off-season is honestly the easiest way to save some cash . Not only do the prices come down to help entice tourists to visit, but the hotels and attractions be quieter too.

Is there a best day to visit Niagara Falls? Not really, but the best time, in my opinion, is the winter from about mid-January to late-April. It’s even better if you can manage to plan to visit during the week . Hotels often have mid-week deals so why not cash in on them! They might even have a falls view room if you’re lucky. That leads me to my next point…

How to Get to Niagara Falls

As with any major travel destination, there are a number of ways you can get to Niagara Falls. Here’s the lowdown on all the transit options for Niagara Falls.

Tips For Visiting Niagara Falls by Air

If you’re looking to fly to Niagara Falls, you have a few options. While Niagara Falls has its own airport (code IATA), the only passenger airline that flies into it is DirectAir which flies from a small handful of destinations.

The closest airport on the Canadian side is the John C Munro Hamilton International Airport (code YHM) located about 70km away. It’s an hour drive from Hamilton to Niagara Falls and you can sometimes find some great deals as it’s a smaller airport. From here you can rent a car for your trip or get a taxi or shuttle instead.

Chances are though, you’re flying into Pearson International Airport (code YYZ) in Toronto which is the largest airport in the area. Similar to Hamilton’s airport, you can either arrange a shuttle or rent a car to get you to Niagara Falls for your getaway.

Lastly, you can also fly into Buffalo-Niagara International Airport (code BUF) but this is located in the United States. It’s a little over 30 minutes away from Niagara Falls but can offer some great deals if you’re looking to visit from a US destination.

Tips for Taking the Train and Bus to Niagara Falls

The majority of tourists travel to Niagara Falls via car, but that’s not the only way to get into the area. VIA Rail, Canada’s national passenger rail service, offers direct trains from Toronto and New York City once a day with a returning train in the evening. If you’re travelling from a different destination, there are a number of connecting trains that can get you to Niagara Falls. It’s best to buy your VIA Rail ticket on Tuesdays since that’s their deal day. You can also travel to Niagara Falls from a number of American cities with Amtrak including Cleveland, Albany and more.

If you don’t manage to snag a VIA ticket on a Tuesday, GO Transit offers a cheaper alternative. GO Transit provides transit from the Greater Toronto Area as well as Hamilton. GO Trains run from Toronto to Niagara Falls on weekends from the Canada Day weekend in July until Labour Day, as well as during the May long weekend.

From the Niagara Falls GO Transit terminal, you can either walk 30 minutes to Clifton Hill or hop on the WeGo bus to take you to your destination. GO buses only run in the summer months as well. However, by 2023 there is said to be regular service from Toronto to Niagara Falls year-round so that gives you something to look forward to!

Lastly, you can always hop on the bus. Both Greyhound and Megabus have daily buses from Toronto and Buffalo to the Niagara Falls Bus Terminal. While it’s not the fastest as traffic on the highway can slow you down, you can get a ticket for $3 Canadian one way  if you book early enough!

Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls by Car

I’d say the majority of people who come to Niagara Falls visit by car. Niagara Falls is a popular destination not just because of the sheer beauty of the falls but because of its accessibility. It’s a popular Ontario road trip destination for day trips, weekends and more! From downtown Toronto, you follow the Gardiner Expressway westward to the Queen Elizabeth Way. Follow it until you see the exit to the Ontario 420 and you’ll be in Niagara Falls!

NOTE:  If you need to fill up your tank, gas stations close to the highway will always be more expensive than those further out. If you’re able to wait until St Catharines or the outskirts of Niagara Falls, this is where you’ll find the best prices.

One of the biggest tips I have for visiting Niagara Falls by car is to enjoy some of the amazing stops on your way in. There is so much that folks pass by while en route to see the Horseshoe Falls!

If you’re passing through Hamilton, you may not realize that you’re driving through the waterfall capital of the world. Stop and enjoy a few of the best waterfalls in Hamilton or take a hike along one of the city’s top hiking trails . Continue heading east and you’ll pass through Vineland where you’ll find a number of incredible wineries . Then there are adorable towns like Beamsville and Grimsby which are perfect for a pitstop. I mean, the possibilities really are endless!

Hotels Tips For Your Niagara Falls Visit

One of the first things I do once I’ve chosen a destination is to look for accommodation. I have a few tricks I use to save money on hotels , though there are few more things you should look out for while choosing where to stay when visiting Niagara Falls.

Watch Out for Pesky Parking Fees

One of the downsides of being close to the falls is that many of the hotels charge for overnight parking, especially ones you’ll find in Travelzoo or Groupon deals. While it’s a bummer, it’s not a deal-breaker if you’re visiting for one night. If you’re planning an extended stay however, I’d highly suggest opting for a hotel that includes parking .

Don’t worry, I’ve done all the research for you to see which hotels are close to the core area of Clifton Hill. The Holiday Inn By The Falls ,  Quality Hotel Fallsview Cascade and Clifton Victoria Inn at the Falls all offer free parking and are just a short walk from the core attractions

As you know, I always recommend staying as local as possible when visiting a destination. As Niagara Falls is a popular tourism destination, there aren’t as many local options as there are chain hotels. To support local, you’ll need to get a little further away from the core area. The Crystal Inn on the Parkway and the River Rapids Inn are great choices for this and both include free parking. You might not be able to walk around as easily but it also gives you a little peace and quiet as you’re away from the hustle and bustle that come with the core area. The WeGo bus is also here which will give you transit if it’s too far for you to walk!

Of course, you can always take a peek at the map of Niagara Falls below to see what other hotel options are best for you.

Make the Most of any Travelzoo or Groupon Deals

Those mid-week Niagara Falls deals? They can come with a lot of perks as many of them offer things to do in Niagara Falls for couples or families with children. My most recent trip came with coupons for a number of restaurants in the immediate vicinity, attractions like the arcade and magic shows, casino credits and more!

Every time I’ve utilized these deals, I’ve never been able to use all of the perks that came along with it. Luckily the majority of them don’t expire on the day you receive them , so that means you can use them on another day or come back again and still save money. Some are even valid until the end of the year! I highly recommend signing up with Travelzoo so you don’t miss out on these incredible deals.

Tips for Things to Do in Niagara Falls

While the main draws are the Horseshoe Falls and American Falls themselves, the area offers plenty of other activities to entertain you. Here are my insider tips of things to do in Niagara Falls to keep you entertained during your visit.

Niagara Falls Tips and Tricks for a Rainy Day

Let’s face it, sometimes the weather just isn’t on our side. While most visit Niagara Falls to enjoy a day outdoors, there are a number of incredible attractions that will keep you dry while still enjoying your visit.

Check Out the Amazing Indoor Attractions in Niagara Falls

Whether it’s a frigidly cold winter day or a rainy summer afternoon, you’ll be happy to experience these amazing indoor things to do in Niagara Falls.

If you’re looking for a great spot to warm up, head to the  Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory . It’s home to over 60+ species of tropical butterflies that flutter freely within the conservatory’s glass dome! Watch as over 2,000 butterflies carry on about their day around you while you admire their beauty and warm up inside the tropical atmosphere of the conservatory. Check out my guide to the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory for more details.

Another fantastic spot is the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse . For over 60 years, it has provided a beautiful oasis less than a kilometre from the Horseshoe Falls. Inside you’ll find a number of tropical plants, seasonal exhibitions and plenty of little critters going about their day! If you’re really lucky, you may catch a glimpse of their Titan Arums (giant corpse flower) in bloom. There’s no rhyme or reason to when it does bloom but the Niagara Parks staff always keep a watchful eye and share when they do!

RELATED:  For all the details, don’t miss my guide to all the amazing indoor things to do in Niagara Falls !

Take Advantage of a Niagara Parks Pass

Remember how I mentioned travelling in the winter is the best time to visit? The Niagara Parks Wonder Pass is another reason to do so as you get great discounts on a number of Niagara Falls attractions. For just $25 per person, you’ll get access to the Journey Behind the Falls which offers the best views of Niagara Falls (well, the Horseshoe Falls) in my opinion, the Butterfly Conservatory , Floral Showhouse and the 4D adventure film called Niagara’s Fury.

Not only this, but you’ll also get plenty of coupons. These include a 2-day Falls Incline pass which will take you from Table Rock up to the Fallsview Casino area and a 2-day WeGo pass which is the transportation service that operates around the main tourist area. You can use the WeGo to get to a number of incredible areas that are a bit off the beaten path like the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve . This is literally savings of $40+ so you’re getting all of these attractions for less than half price . The only downside is it’s only available from November to April.

In the warmer months however, there is more selection as more attractions are available. If you’re planning on doing a Niagara Falls boat tour via the Hornblower Boat Cruise (formerly known as Maid of the Mist) and one or two more other attractions, I highly recommend grabbing the Niagara Parks Adventure Pass . It’s worth it for the money you’ll save! Visit the Niagara Parks website for more details .

Enjoy the FREE Things to Do in Niagara Falls

As Niagara Falls is a top tourism destination, the costs can quickly add up. Luckily, there are a number of amazing free things to do in Niagara Falls so you can enjoy your time without breaking the bank!

Go For an Epic Hike

If you’re an avid hiker, you won’t want to miss the top hiking trails in Niagara Falls . There are a number of fantastic trails in the city, but if you’re going to go anywhere – it has to be the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve . You’ll be treated to some of the best views in Niagara Falls as you can get up close to the brilliant turquoise water of the Niagara River. Enjoy a few hours exploring the 4 kilometres of trails throughout the area. Check out my full guide to the Niagara Glen for more details !

Hunt for Street Art

That’s right, there’s art to be found in Niagara Falls! Head to the downtown core where you can find a number of murals that add an extra sparkle to the core. Queen Street doesn’t see nearly the foot traffic that a hotspot like Clifton Hill does, but it still makes for a great adventure. Plus there are a number of fantastic local restaurants in the area if you’re hungry!

Explore the Heartland Forest

While it’s a little off the beaten track, the Heartland Forest is worth detouring for! Head to the western side of the city where you’ll find a natural oasis that’s accessible to all. Stroll through the park’s beautiful trails and enjoy the beautiful art installations and carvings. It’s a welcomed breath of fresh air if you need a break from the hustle and bustle that comes with Niagara Falls!

RELATED:  For the full lowdown, check out my inside scoop on all the free things to do in Niagara Falls !

Be in Two Places at Once

A fun fact you may not know is that you can actually be in two places at once. All you’ll need is a quarter and your passport. It isn’t really advertised but the Rainbow Bridge across from Casino Niagara is pedestrian-friendly! Just throw a quarter in the turnstile and walk towards the US side. Halfway you’ll find a plaque that illustrates the exact border between the two countries – meaning you can have one foot in Niagara Falls on the American side, and one on the Canadian side. How cool is that?! An added bonus is the view is pretty fabulous too!

Things to Do for Families in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls and families go hand-in-hand as there is plenty to do for families of all shapes and sizes. The majority of the attractions mentioned above are great for families with small children, and there is plenty more to do around Clifton Hill . With fun houses, wax museums, bowling, mini putt and more you could easily spend one day just in Clifton Hill alone! Everything is also paved sidewalks and easily accessible for those with strollers. However, the sidewalks can get crowded in the busier months.

I’m not typically one to support chains but dinner at the Rainforest Café is a must if you haven’t been before. With animatronic animals and ‘thunderstorms’ every 30 minutes, it’s bound to entertain the youngin’s… it still entertains me! Although it can get loud, so if your little one has sensitive ears, a pair of earplugs might be a good idea.

Things to Do in Niagara Falls for Couples

For all the lovebirds, there is plenty of romantic spots for a memorable trip. You can get some of the best views of the area from the top of the Niagara Skywheel . Just you and your partner in crime snuggled up enjoying each other’s company and the views from your own personal little pod. If that doesn’t make you go  aww … then you’re a tough crowd. Click here to purchase your tickets .

Looking for a more easy-going, low-key adventure? Grab a drink and enjoy some friendly competition at the arcade! Go old school with some ski ball, rip up the dance floor with some Dance Dance Revolution and more at the Great Canadian Midway . The upstairs arcade next to the Boston Pizza is licensed so you can enjoy an adult beverage while kicking your partner’s butt… I mean, celebrating each other’s wins. Yes.

What about the guys looking to woo their new main squeeze? How about a trip to a haunted house ? Protecting her from the wrath of Dracula and his goons is bound to earn you some points… unless you’re the one hiding behind her. If you’re a pair of horror buffs, you can always take on Screamers… if you dare!

For those looking to celebrate a big night, dinner at the Skylon Tower ‘s revolving restaurant is a great spot. Get a little fancied up and enjoy the great food and service. I highly suggest going around sunset, if not to have dinner while the sun is saying goodbye for another day then to enjoy it from the observation deck which is included at no extra cost!

Although if you’re  really looking to kick it up a notch, there’s the Ruth Chris Steakhouse across from the Fallsview Casino. I can honestly say it was one of the best meals I’ve had in the area, but the price tag shows it… so I’d save this for a big event or if you’ve gotten lucky at the casino prior. Although if you cashed in on one of those Travelzoo or Groupon deals, it’ll help ease the pain on your wallet.

In all honesty though, whether you’re going for the low-key fun or fancy dress & tie, I’d avoid the peak travel times . I don’t know about you, but fighting through crowds really isn’t my idea of a romantic getaway!

Tips for Saving Money in Niagara Falls

Visiting Niagara Falls itself is free, but it all depends on what you do and where you go within the city. If you’re stopping in just to catch a glimpse of the Horseshoe Falls and wander around the city, then you can do so without paying a dime. However, chances are you’ll be spending the day there meaning you’ll probably spend a bit of cash at some point.

Hungry? Go Outside the Tourism Core

One of the easiest ways to save money in Niagara is by where you eat. Many of the restaurants along Clifton Hill, near the Fallsview Casino and in the Table Rock Centre are convenient but expensive.

Your best bet is to go into downtown Niagara Falls and support local establishments . Not only this, but chances are you’ll get an amazing meal as they’re concerned about having repeat customers while many of the big restaurants are more focused on the number of one-time visitors. One of my favourite restaurants is Taps Brewhouse where you can enjoy incredible eats and a refreshing craft beer on their patio!

If you’re travelling with a big group, grabbing some takeout is always a fantastic option. There are a number of great pizza spots like Red Swan Pizza on Thorold Stone Road and Zappi’s Pizza on Stanley Avenue. I’m also a huge fan of the build your own taco kits from Eager Beaver Eatery on Dorchester Road! Make sure you get the fish tacos – you’ll thank me later.

Drink in Your Hotel Room

For those looking to get a little crazy, alcohol can get expensive if buying it from a restaurant. The best place to get alcohol without breaking the bank is at the LCBO (there’s one right on Ferry St and Fallsview Blvd – perfect for stopping on your way in) or the Beer Store. There is a Wine Rack in the Fallsview Casino complex which will do in a pinch, but the selection will be small. Grab a selection of adult beverages and enjoy a few in your hotel room to save some serious cash.

If you touch the mini bar though… be prepared for a serious price tag. Avoid it at all costs!

Additional Things to Know For a Trip to Niagara

Each time you visit Niagara Falls, you’ll discover something about the destination. It’s from multiple visits that I’ve gained this wealth of knowledge! Here are a few additional things to know for your visit to Niagara Falls.

What to Wear When Visiting Niagara Falls

What many don’t realize is that Canada is infamous for fluctuating weather. We’ve had snow in May, scorching temperatures of almost 40°C (~100°F) in August and Niagara Falls even came close to freezing over a few winters back. As you can imagine, it’s hard to pack when the temperature is all over the place!

As I briefly mentioned earlier, I always recommend dressing in layers . If you visit in the summer, it could be incredibly hot outside but then you’ll have air-conditioned restaurants and stores. As someone who almost always finds the AC too cold, I don’t leave home without some sort of hoodie or zip-up sweater to ensure my teeth aren’t chattering. As for winter, it’s pretty much the reverse. Freezing temps outside with warm and cozy inside. You’ll want to wear a t-shirt under your hoodie in case you get too hot!

If you plan on going out to a fancy dinner or hitting up the casino, it’s not uncommon to get a little dressed up. I’d recommend packing at least one outfit that’s at least business casual if you plan on splurging a little with a sophisticated night out. It never hurts to throw in a little black dress (and whatever the male equivalent of that is)!

What Do I Need to Visit Niagara Falls?

If you’re Canadian then all you need is your two feet and your transportation! If you’re coming from the United States, you will need a valid passport or NEXUS card in order to cross the border. This goes for the pedestrian bridge too! You will also be required to pay a toll for the bridge as you enter Canada. You can find a list of what the current toll price is here .

Are you a citizen of another country? Chances are you will need an  Electronic Travel Authorization or ETA in order to visit Canada. This is easy to obtain and is connected to your passport. All you need to do is fill out this form online and pay a $7 fee. However, some countries may even require a visitor visa in order to visit Canada. If you’re unsure which one you need,  take a look at the Government of Canada website to see if you require an ETA, visitor visa and how to go about getting either one.

Is There Any Time I Can’t Visit Niagara Falls?

Contrary to what some may say, Niagara Falls never closes . The stores, restaurants and other establishments may close, but the falls are always there for you to admire. Yes, you can visit Niagara Falls at night. Yes, you can visit Niagara Falls in April or December or any month of the year.

If you’re looking for a specific time on when to visit Niagara Falls, well that’s entirely up to you! You can have a different experience depending on when you visit. If you’re wondering whether you should visit in December or any other time for that matter, I think the answer is yes. Each season has its perks and quirks, you just have to decide what time is best for you!

Looking for Other Things To Do in Niagara?

The city itself is great and all, but there are plenty of things to do in Niagara Region that shouldn’t be missed. The picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is perfect for an afternoon of wandering shops, delightful boutique eateries and to catch a theatre show. If wine is your thing, I highly suggest heading to one of the many wineries in the area. There’s a reason why this region is the 2nd highest for Canadian wine exports!

You have two options for this and there are perks and downsides to both. The first option is to hop on a guided tour. You can either enjoy a bus tour that leaves right from one of the hotels in Niagara Falls or you can earn your wine with a cycling tour. There are quite a few guided Niagara Falls tours which are great since everything is planned for you, but they typically take you to the larger wineries. Here are my top picks for Niagara winery tours:

Your alternative is to assign a designated driver and hit the open road. If you’re wondering what Niagara wineries to visit, I suggest Inniskillin, Peller Estates, Pillitteri, Konzelmann and Small Talk Vineyards. I’ve got all the details on these Niagara wineries and more! Most wineries can get really busy in the summer so if you’re looking for somewhere on the quieter side during that time, the wineries in Vineland are a great option!

If you’re looking to do a little shopping, you have the option of two outlets in Niagara. There’s the Canada One Factory Outlet which is closest to Niagara Falls or the newer Outlet Collection at Niagara. Both offer a different ensemble of stores, but if you had to choose I’d select the latter.

Are you one that heads for the trails? There’s plenty of hiking to be done. As I mentioned earlier you can tackle part of the Bruce Trail  or enjoy the views from the Niagara Glen . If you need more waterfalls in your life,  Decew Falls  is the closest option with Swayze Falls in Short Hills Provincial Park , Louth Falls and Rockway Falls just around the corner. Here’s a round up of over 10 waterfalls you can check out in the Niagara Region ! Waterfall hunting is hands down one of the top things to do on the way to Niagara Falls.

The Biggest Thing to Know When Visiting Niagara Falls Canada

I put this one at the bottom because if you’re going to remember any of these Niagara Falls travel tips – this is the one. The worst is that it flies under the radar so often. If you look at your bills, you may see the acronym DMDF. This refers to the “destination marketing and development fee”, a 3% charge which many hotels and restaurants will add to your bill. Also known as a TIFF (tourism infrastructure funding fee), it is entirely voluntary and can be refused .

Since 2018, a  hotel tax of $2 per night has been approved but it is ONLY for hotel rooms and cannot be applied to any other tourism components. However, some hotels have made it mandatory and have increased it as high as 10% , so be sure to read the fine print or call and inquire when booking your accommodation.

What makes it even worse? This money isn’t being collected for the joint purpose of helping the region – it’s going right to the establishments for them to spend as they see fit. For some bills, it may only be a dollar or two, but for an extended hotel stay… it quickly adds up. Be sure to ask about it as hotels and restaurants will not say a word unless you do.

Summary of Lindsay’s Insider Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls

For those skimming this post who are looking to just cut to the nitty-gritty, here are the important tips for traveling to Niagara Falls Canada:

• You will need a passport and possibly an eTA visa in order to enter Niagara Falls if you’re not already in Canada
• Coming from outside Canada? Watch for tolls, roaming charges and additional credit card fees
• Niagara Falls is always open, meaning you can see both the Horseshoe Falls and Bridal Veil Falls (aka the American Falls) any day at any time.
• While attractions cost money, visiting Niagara Falls is free if you’re there to witness the gorgeous waterfalls!
• You can visit Niagara Falls at any time of the year. Can you visit Niagara Falls in winter? Yes. Can you visit Niagara Falls in March? Yes. Can you visit Niagara Falls now? Of course, come on down!
• The best way to save money is to visit Niagara falls in the off-season which is from October to April
• When selecting your hotel, watch out for parking fees as they’re daily and can become very expensive over an extended stay
• Travelzoo has amazing deals as well as Groupon where you can enjoy a number of attractions at a great discount
• Don’t let any rain dampen your visit and check out the top indoor attractions in Niagara Falls
• Take advantage of the Niagara Parks Passes like the Wonder Pass or Adventure Pass to save money on attractions
• Keep your wallet happy and check out all of the amazing free things to do in Niagara Falls
• Don’t miss out on the amazing hiking trails in Niagara Falls like the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve and get outside the city, especially to chase waterfalls in the Niagara Region
• There are plenty of things to do for families, couples and friends in Niagara Falls making it a great destination for any type of trip
• Save money on meals by eating at local restaurants like those in downtown Niagara Falls or grabbing takeout and eating in your hotel room
• Grab your adult beverages from the LCBO or Beer Store to avoid the high price of alcohol in restaurants
• Dress in layers when visiting to ensure you’re always comfortable no matter the climate
• It’s a great idea to get outside of Niagara Falls so you don’t miss out on exploring Niagara-on-the-Lake aka wine country and other great features of the area
• Never forget to ask to have the DMDF or TIFF to be removed from your bills as it is entirely voluntary and can be refused .

Ready to Visit Niagara Falls?

Phew, that’s quite the lengthy list! As I said before, visiting Niagara Falls can be quite the ordeal, but I hope this round-up of Niagara Falls vacation tips will help make your stay as enjoyable as possible. If you’re looking for tips for visiting Niagara Falls USA, you’ll have to stay tuned for another post. Even though I lived in the area for over 20 years, I still have barely experienced the American side. I think I need to fix that one day!

Are you going to Niagara Falls soon? I hope these tips for going to Niagara Falls will make planning your trip easier! Have you visited Niagara Falls before? Have I missed any of your questions about Niagara Falls that you’d like answered? Please let me know in a comment below!

Looking for More Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls? Top 5 Ways to Experience the Niagara Gorge Indoor Things to Do in Niagara Falls on a Rainy Day Don’t Miss the Top Hiking Trails in Niagara Falls Enjoy a Natural Escape in Niagara Falls at the Heartland Forest Plan a Spring Visit to Chase Cherry Blossoms in Niagara Embrace the Snow with a Visit to the Winter Festival of Lights More Articles For Your Visit to the Niagara Region 30+ Incredible Things to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake The Best Guide For Chasing Waterfalls Across the Niagara Region Hike Through Short Hills Provincial Park, Niagara’s Largest Park Check Out One (or More!) Of the Niagara Region’s Best Hikes Explore the Top Hiking Trails in St Catharines Enjoy a Glass at The Best Wineries in Niagara Take a Hike at the Woodend Conservation Area Explore the St Johns Conservation Area in Fonthill Follow the Bruce to the Beautiful Rockway Falls in Lincoln Don’t Miss This Self-Guided Tour of Vineland’s Wineries The Top Beamer Memorial Conservation Area Hiking Guide Things to Do in Port Colborne, Niagara’s Ship Shape City Plan a Visit to the Niagara Icewine Festival

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36 Comments

I have wanted to visit Niagara Falls for a long time. I know it may be touristy but it is a price to pay for such a beautiful place. The description of the casino and other places reminds me of the surrounding areas of Lake Tahoe. I like the idea of visiting offseason and getting discounts.

Lindz author

Yes! I’ve had the pleasure (and fortune) of visiting in every season and honestly the winter is my favourite. It’s so much quieter and you really get to enjoy the area without crazy lines, the hustle and bustle, and it doesn’t destroy your bank account!

Ugh! I didn’t know about the NDNF fee. I do want to go back through so will keep it in mind. I also wonder if I would be able to enjoy the Falls in the winter, I feel like I would just be cold the whole time.

Yeah it’s really frustrating! I’ve really only seen it appear on my latest visit, but what irked me was that it wasn’t just hotels it was restaurants and shops too!! And while by the falls it can be quite chilly, a lot of the attractions inside will keep you warm. If you have a big warm coat, some mittens and a hat I’m sure you’d be just fine! 🙂

I found the NFDF fee interesting as I wasn’t aware of that, and I have travelled there before. I found the America Falls, whilst much smaller still worth a visit as well

Yeah, it’s one that really goes unnoticed since it’s often lumped in with all of the taxes and for those not from the province, it just goes unnoticed. It would be one thing if it was going to making the area better but it bothers me that it just goes to their pockets!!

As for the American Falls, I agree with you 100%! I’d really like to make it to the NY side to get a better look. I just haven’t quite made it there yet!

I’ve always wanted to visit the Falls (one day! Is it easy to get there for non-drivers?), and these are great tips! I’m not big on huge crowds, so the tip about how to beat tourist season is invaluable for me!

Hi Nicky! It is possible! There is a bus that leaves from Toronto which takes you right to the Fallsview Casino so you’re in the heart of everything. From there you can walk or take the WeGo bus around to the majority of the spots I’ve mentioned! If you’re comfortable as well, there’s always Uber or a taxi to get you anywhere the buses don’t 🙂

And YES! I’m exactly the same way, which is why visiting in the winter is honestly my favourite time to go. Plus it’s so much easier on your wallet – you can find hotel deals for less than $60 a night sometimes!

I love Niagara Falls and the area! I’ll be sure to keep these great tips in mind next time I visit. And to be honest, I knew about the TIFF but I had no idea it could be refused. Great to know! Thanks girl!

Yeah! CBC Marketplace did a whole thing on it – some places are charging even up to 10%! How insane is that?! Here’s the article: http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/niagara-falls-tourism-fee-marketplace-1.4001972

Best bang for your buck in Niagara Falls… the Hornblower cruise and nothing beats Italian ice cream on Victoria Ave.

The Hornblower Cruise is pretty fantastic – a must-do in the warmer months! As for that Italian ice cream, I’ll have to treat myself next time I’m in town!

Your photos look awesome, the place looks beautiful with snow around! I visited Niagara Falls for the first time this year and I love it!

Niagara Falls is a serious winter gem that I think many don’t take advantage of! Glad to hear you enjoyed your stay! 🙂

Have they changed the rules for the fees in 2021?

Yes and no. There is a mandatory tourism tax of 2% which is collected by the City of Niagara Falls to help with infrastructure upgrades. However, there are a number of hotels that blow this out of the water. Let’s take the Hilton for example – they impose a 11.49% (plus HST) Daily Mandatory Charge (this is taken directly from their website) where only 2% of that goes to the city and the rest goes into their pockets. It’s important to do your homework when booking, otherwise you’ll be slapped with this fee. Also this tourism tax is ONLY for hotels, yet restaurants try to impose it as well. As far as I’m aware, there is nothing legislated for restaurants to collect this tax so be sure to keep an eye out for it!

Well done! This post carries its title like a charm! This is more than a mouth full and all that one truly need to know in just one post! The pictures are STUNNING! I have never been to Niagara Falls, but I hope to go one day. I knew that the falls crossed the borders, but I didn’t realize that there was a difference in the views/experience! Truly informative guide that I plan to save for when I am able to go on the trip. Thank you 😀

I wish I had read this guide before our first visit!! Niagara Falls was the first place my partner and I went to on our first ever travels together and is actually where we said we loved each other for the first time! As cheesy and busy as the Canadian side was in the height of summer, I actually loved spending the day doing the various activities around the falls and then the evenings sipping weird and wonderful cocktails and visiting the silly wax museums and mini golf course! 🙂

Having grown up in Burlington and also lived in both St. Catharines and Welland I have been to the Falls more times than I can count. I have not however stayed overnight. I was always close enough that I could just head home. I haven’t been there much in the last few years so was unaware of the TIFF. Good to know that you can refuse it. I’ve been in every season and while winter is not my favorite I agree about the crowds. I’m going to try to get down there this year to check out the festival of lights. I’ve been through some of it by car but have never really taken the time to appreciate it. Of course that could be said for our own Festival here in Burlington. I pass it several times a week on the bus or cab but only once have I walked through it. And I don’t live that far.

Yes for sure!! Refuse the crap out of it! I wouldn’t mind paying it if it actually went into developing the area or supporting the local economy but it’s just a money grab. Also the Winter Festival of Lights is so magical!! My favourite spot is the Dufferin Islands which I only realized existed a few years ago. I have a post about it here if you want to know more! https://ivebeenbit.ca/aura-niagara-winter-festival-of-lights/

Thinking about going in October was wondering if it is still crowded. Would love to see the fall foliage. Any info on going in October?

It depends a little bit on the weather, but the crowds are definitely much smaller than anything you’d find in the summer. You should still be able to find some great deals in October and aiming for mid-October is best. That way even if we have a late fall, you should still see some beautiful colours! This really is the best time to hike in the area, and if you can splurge a little, I’d highly recommend a helicopter tour. The views are incredible and are that much more beautiful with the fall foliage!

Lindz, Thank you so much for all the information you provide here. I’ve never been to Niagara Falls before and have really been doing my homework to find out as much as I can. I will definitely be using Hotel with no parking fee. Leaning towards Holiday Inn By The Falls. I also like that on the Rainbow Bridge you can actually be in two places at once photo spot. Thanks

This warms my heart so much! I’m happy you found all these tips helpful. I hope you have a wonderful vacation and enjoy your time in Niagara Falls!!

Robert Raff

Hello there! What a fantastic article – Me and my girlfriend are planning a trip to the falls In mid August, coming from New York City and I’ve finally started doing my research and this article really gave me a great place to start – Thank you!!!

Hi Robert! That makes my heart so happy! I’m glad to hear my article helps and if you have any additional questions, please let me know! I’ll answer to the best of my abilities 🙂

Visiting Niagra next month. Do you know if the voluntary tax is still “voluntary”? I cant really find anything recent, and to be honest I don’t know where to look. Also, big thank you for the bridge idea, I had no clue and it’s in my list of things to do!

Hi Sarah! Great question! As of right now, I believe there is a $2/night tourism fee at hotels but otherwise, all other taxes are voluntary. Some hotels will try to say otherwise so it’s best to call in advance with those or ask online. Here’s an article which can help explain it further! https://www.stcatharinesstandard.ca/news-story/8567872-falls-council-approves-hotel-tax/

You’re very welcome! I hope you have an amazing time – it truly gives you a unique vantage point for the falls! 🙂

Going next weekend and I’ve read about this fee on restaurant bills via TripAdvisor. Would you suggest asking a place right up front if they put one on the bill? I’m a little concerned that doing so will ensure bad service. I’m guessing that they might not put a note on the menu that states it will be charged (i.e. like a mandatory tip for large parties).

Hi Sandra, great question! I’ve never said anything as soon as I’ve been seated, only once I’ve received the bill because not all restaurants do it but many do. They definitely won’t put a note like they did do for the mandatory tip as you mentioned, but I’ve never run into any issues with the restaurant removing the fee. The only time I ever ran into trouble was at the Sheraton where I had to argue for quite some time, but the eventually removed it and said it was a ‘one time thing’ and that I’d have to pay it if I stayed with them again. This was before the $2/night hotel fee came into play. I hope you have an amazing trip to Niagara Falls!

Nice article, thanks! I’m going to be in Cleveland first of March and thought I’d rent a car and drive up for the day while I’m so close. Your comment about the train possibility from Cleveland intrigued me but when I went to the VIA rail site, Cleveland was not possible as a travel point. You may need to edit your blog. I realize I may not get the full benefit of a warmer visit, and a lot of the fun stuff will be closed, but a bucket list item is a bucket list item and I’ll be so close, I can’t pass it by!

Hi Peg! Thank you so much for your comment and for letting me know! I wonder if the Cleveland route is only in peak season. I just took a quick look on Amtrak and it seems as though they have a train with a transfer in Buffalo which might work for you! Thanks for bringing this to my attention – I’ve updated it in the article.

As for Niagara Falls in March, it’s seriously awesome all year round. Hopefully we’ll still be having a cold spell so you can enjoy the falls with ice and snow. Winter is seriously my favourite time of year to visit! Plus you won’t be contending with crowds which is always awesome. Have a wonderful trip and I’m glad you get to check Niagara Falls off your bucket list!

This is super helpful. Im looking to visit right after the US Labor Day holiday. Is there a guide somewhere that will let me know if there are any festivals those few days around Sept 6-9?

Hey there, that’s a great question! I’d recommend taking a look at the Niagara Falls Tourism site as they should have events listed as well as possibly the Fallsview Casino since they’re often a venue for bigger events!

Maggie Gomez

I use a walker. Is it possible to enjoy Niagra Falls?

Hi Maggie! Niagara Falls is certainly accessible even if you have a walker. There are numerous attractions from Niagara Parks such as the Journey Behind the Falls, the Butterfly Conservatory, the Floral Showhouse and more that you can enjoy with a walker without worry. There’s also the WeGo bus system to help save you some walking that can take you to and from a variety of attractions. Plus the Table Rock Welcome Centre as well as the Table Rock Restaurant are all accessible. I hope that helps a bit 🙂

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The Ultimate Niagara Falls Trip Planning Guide

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Niagara Falls can be described as many things. It is a legendary tourist attraction, an awe-inspiring natural wonder, and most notably, a must-see for any bucket list. The falls tend to become any visitor’s favorite destination instantly, and after your trip, we have no doubt it will be one of yours. Here is the ultimate Niagara Falls trip planning guide to help you out!

The majestic (and massive) falls have captured the imagination and attention of thousands, so it’s a no-brainer for any cross-country trip in North America and Canada .

The falls themselves and the surrounding areas genuinely feel like a different world. Epic views, breathtaking sights, and unforgettable attractions make Niagara Falls unique.

Whether you’re looking for a more outdoor and rustic naturist escape on the US side of the falls or an amusement park-style vacation on the Canadian side , Niagara Falls won’t disappoint.

So, shall we plan your ultimate Niagara Falls trip?

Niagara Falls Trip Planning | The Ultimate Guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

A Brief History of Niagara Falls

Before planning any adventure, it’s always important to know as much as possible about your destination. And with history and origin like Niagara Falls, there is a lot to know. 

Here’s a quick crash course on the interesting history of your next dream vacation – Niagara Falls, Canada & US.

It is estimated that roughly 12,000 years ago, at the end of the last Ice Age, during a massive melt-off and the extreme flow of water caused by this, the falls we know today came into existence. 

And since then, the interest and fascination with the falls have only grown. Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother celebrated his honeymoon at the falls about 200 years ago, and Charles Dickens wrote in 1842 how the falls stunned him into silence.

Essential Niagara Falls Trip Info

Planning your trip to Niagara Falls will take some careful consideration. Factors such as the time of year, the forecasted weather patterns, and travel requirements are just some things you need to know. 

Here’s our breakdown of the whens, wheres, and how-tos make visiting Niagara Falls convenient, enjoyable, and most importantly unforgettable.

The Border Crossing at Niagara Falls

Composed of several large waterfalls on the Niagara River, the Niagara Falls span across the eastern coast of the United States and Canada. What makes the falls unique is that they sit right on the border of these two countries.

If you choose to visit both sides, you will be crossing international borders so remember to check your visa requirements as border control is strict.

Now separated by the border between the USA and Canada, the largest of the three, the Horseshoe Falls, is situated on Canadian soil. The other two, the Bridal Veil and American Falls, are on American soil.

With the distinct geographical history and elements of the falls, you can choose to visit them from either country or, even better yet, plan a trip to include both. Visiting the American side of the falls and crossing into Canada if you’re a US national will require no visa. 

If you are a non-US citizen you will need the appropriate Canadian eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization Visa). For all your visa questions, iVisa offers the perfect tool.

When to Visit Niagara Falls

Deciding on the best time to visit the falls and their surrounding areas can make or break your trip. And, as with any other natural attraction, tourist influx during certain months also affects your experience.

A quick online search will tell you that the summer months in the region are ideal for any planned trip. For Niagara Falls, this means June, July, and August. The reasoning behind this is the result of higher day-to-day temperatures.

Although higher temperatures sound great, we are on the fence about this as the mists and breeze from the falls will make you doubt the actual temperatures most of the time.

What the summer months do, however, is cause a massive wave of tourists flogging the falls and the surrounding attractions, towns, and accommodation.

The falls are immensely popular, that’s for sure, but overcrowding everywhere you go can ruin a good vacation.

Winter is from November through to the end of February. Heavy snowfall occurs during December and can continue into January. The falls, in a sense, ‘slow’ down and might even freeze over in the extreme cold. Although this is also a beautiful sight to behold, many attractions at the falls shut down.

We recommend you plan your trip for the shoulder few months. These fall in Spring (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September and October). Temperatures are excellent, usually mid-to-high during the days and comfortable at night.

Prices are reasonable for accommodation, restaurants, entertainment venues, and attractions due to fewer tourists. 

How to Get to Niagara Falls

Traveling to Niagara Falls can be done in a variety of ways. Most visitors opt to fly to one of the airports near the falls. On the Canadian side, this is Toronto Pearson International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from the falls. 

If you choose to fly on the American side, you’ll head for Buffalo Niagara International Airport, which is in Buffalo and about a 30-to-40-minute drive from the falls.

Niagara Falls also has its own train station with commuter and travel lines coming in from Toronto, New York, and several other cities. To make your trip more exciting we recommend spending at least one day in Toronto .

Once at the falls, it’s worth renting a car from the many car rental agencies around to make getting around as easy as possible and for added freedom.

But, with cab services in the area and short walking distances between most things (on either side of the falls), renting a car isn’t a necessity.

Read: Road trips from Toronto Ontario

Exploring Niagara Falls

Any trip to Niagara Falls will be unforgettable, and that’s a fact. Regardless of which side of the falls you visit, you’re in for a good time and a great adventure. Both the Canadian and American sides have their own unique charm and highlights.

The main focal point of your trip is the falls themselves, and while both sides more than meet any expectation you could have, each is distinct and worth a visit. 

Explore from Canada: Niagara Falls Activities

On the Canadian side sits the largest of the falls – the Horseshoe Falls. Being the largest of the three falls, it’s a breathtaking scene, and seeing the falls for the first time will remain in your memory forever. 

Experience Niagara Falls, Canada

The Canadian Niagara Falls experience is quite different than on the US side for several reasons. On this side of the falls, you can expect a more urbanized approach to the adventure, with a number of amusement park-style attractions close to the falls. 

The falls remain the highlight, but what sets the Canadian side apart is its focus on tourism and tourist attractions. This translates into various sightseeing options, different accommodation types, classic streetside cafes, high-end restaurants, and more.

Top Attractions

Treating yourself to some entertaining attractions on the Canadian side of the falls is a must. From Toronto, you can choose from a number of sightseeing tours, unique attractions aimed at family fun, or adventures specifically for you and your significant other.

There are some exceptional options when it comes to attractions. 

Niagara Falls Private Sightseeing Tour

If you’re looking for a scenic and private tour of the area and Niagara Falls, this private sightseeing tour comes top-rated. It boasts the best coverage of the area meaning you’ll get the most out of your trip.

Falls by Day and Night

For a full-day tour of Niagara Falls, Falls by Day and Night stands out amongst others as it is aimed at giving you a proper experience of everything the falls have to offer. It also includes dinner served after the tour ends.

Skylon Lunch Tour

Another great option that pays homage to the setup of the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is the Canada helicopter, boat ride, and Skylon lunch tour. It’s an excellent choice to get in as much of the falls and the city as you can.

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

The top pick for seeing the falls in all their beauty would have to be the royal Canadian tour and Maid of the Mist boat ride. This is a five-hour day trip that takes you up close to the falls for an exceptional view and feel of the falls.

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls Trip Planning Guide

As far as accommodation choices go, the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is a treasure trove of amazing places. The towering heights of the Hilton Niagara Falls or the Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa in Fallsview offer stunning views of the falls in a deluxe hotel setting.

Or, choose a more boutique accommodation option, the Old Stone Inn Boutique Hotel , which is only a few minutes from the falls. The Redwood Bed and Breakfast is also an excellent option for a more intimate experience.  

And if you’re bringing the whole family, we recommend the Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark Resort . It has several family suites and an indoor and outdoor waterpark – perfect for some excitement away from the falls.

Explore from the United States: Niagara Falls State Park

The remaining two falls that makeup Niagara Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the American Falls, sit on the border between New York State and Canada. Although not as large as the Horseshoe falls, these two are both equally as beautiful.

Experience Niagara Falls, USA

Where the Canadian side of Niagara Falls fulfills the need for urban tourism, the side of the falls in the US showcases a totally different perspective.

Visiting Niagara Falls on the US side means you’ll get in touch with nature a bit more than you would on the Canadian side. 

Both falls on the US side sit within Niagara Falls New York State Park, making for a more rustic and outdoorsy experience. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a scenic escape from city life.

The best part is you will get amazing views of the falls and some peace and serenity at the same time.

Just as impressive as the Canadian side of the falls, on the US side, you’ll find some super attractions as well. 

Boat Cruise and Cave of the Winds Tour

To get you close to the falls and for a mesmerizing tour, we recommend the USA boat and cave tour . A trip to the Cave of the Winds, which is a series of platforms that lead right to the base of Bridal Veil Falls, is a must.

Guided Falls Walking Tour

With its layout and terrain, the US side of the falls has the advantage of once-in-a-lifetime walking tours as well, our top pick being the guided walking tour of the falls. 

Maid of the Mist Tour

Another excellent choice is the Maid of the Mist and Adventure Walking Tour , which combines both a memorable boat trip and an exciting walk around the falls.

Wine Tasting & Vineyard Tour

And if you’re looking for a little bit of relaxation and fun, try the half-day winery tour that features wine tastings at the State Parks vineyards and an optional lunch. Including this in your Niagara Falls trip offers the perfect blend of countryside and waterfront fun.

Where to Stay

Now we must admit, although the US side of the falls focuses more on nature, the accommodation on offer covers every potential type you might want. First, for a luxurious and entertaining hotel choice, we recommend the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino.

Other luxurious hotel options include The Hampton Inn Niagara Falls , which offers a variety of room types including suites. Or The Giacomo in downtown Niagara Falls is the perfect blend of luxury and urban accommodation.

Travel Guide Tips for Your Niagara Falls Vacation

Here’s our insider’s list of top Niagara Falls vacation travel tips.

• To get the most out of Niagara Falls, we definitely recommend planning your trip for a couple of days. By doing so, you can visit both sides of the falls, and the convenience of the Rainbow Bridge helps with that. 
• When heading out on any of the tours of the falls, remember one thing, you will get wet. The best tip for this is to instead leave everything that can get damaged by water at your hotel or have a waterproof bag for your items.
• There are many world-class restaurants at the falls featuring cuisine from all around the world. Plan your trip to include some of these.

Final Thoughts – Is Niagara Falls Worth a Visit?

In short, yes, Niagara Falls is without a doubt worth any traveler’s visit. Not only are the falls majestic and out of this world to see in person, but the entire region (on both sides of the border) also stuns and excites.

So if you haven’t already planned your trip to Niagara Falls, best get to it, and with this guide by your side, it will be a trip you’ll never forget.

Pin: Niagara Falls Canada & USA trip planning guide

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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Journey Beyond Borders: Discover, Explore, And Cherish with ToNiagara

• Destinations
• Niagara Falls

12 Travel Tips For Visiting Niagara Falls

Are you planning for a relaxing weekend? Just arrived in Ontario? Is it your birthday or anniversary? Going out with the family? Bored of a monotonous work schedule? Want to take a break? The answer to all these questions is let’s go to Niagara Falls. Travel Tips For visiting Niagara Falls helps you in planning your vacation – as to which side of Niagara Falls is better, what to do in Niagara Falls, and where to stay in Niagara Falls?

I have visited Niagara Falls many times, and I have come across a new experience each time. I will highly recommend you visit the Falls. Before you go there, some tips will be helpful during your visit.

First, the good news is that the Canadian Government has opened the borders, and there are now minimal COVID restrictions.

Visiting The Falls First Time?

If you are a first-time visitor, you must know that this beautiful sight is on the banks of the Niagara River, which separates Canada from America. Both sides have their Falls – the American side has Bridal Veil and American Falls, while the Horseshoe Falls is on the Canadian side.

Enjoy From Both The Sides

Both sides are famous for their unique beauties. Both sides’ views are worth seeing, but if I had to pick one, I’d go with Canada because of its misty ambiance and a magnificent cave that you can explore below ground level!

Consider A Full-Day Trip To The Falls

A few hours are not enough to cherish the beauty of this place. Niagara Falls is home to one of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders, but there is much more to see and do in Niagara. Plan your trip at least for one day to get the entire experience. You will not be able to visit all of the sights on a half-day excursion to Niagara Falls. The Falls look different during different times of the day. You need time to see the Falls from various perspectives, and you’ll want to remain for the fireworks, which don’t start until late.

Our Toronto to Niagara Falls Day Tour will transport you from the Falls to the Falls View Buffet. You can have a magnificent lunch while watching the Falls (lunch buffet is an optional add-on and subject to availability). Then we go back in time to the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. This lovely town has kept its Victorian-era charm and its beautiful architecture, which you are going to love. To book this tour, click here.

Are you a wine lover? If yes, this trip will be incomplete for you if you do not learn how grapes are grown, crushed, and pressed to produce some of the world’s finest wines and sip them up. Hence, don’t miss visiting the wineries.

Catch The Sight Of The Falls From The Sky

What can be more fascinating than viewing the Falls while in the air? A classic tour with Niagara Helicopters can make your experience worth remembering. The pilot is going to take you over Whirlpool Rapids, American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls – to make sure that you get amazing views of all these natural wonders before landing at Horseshoe for some picturesque shots from up in altitude; splurge though, because you’re not going there every day so take your time enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that just happens.

I would suggest you add this to your bucket list for sure.

Furthermore, you may visit over 250 famous observation decks on both sides of the border as part of this incredible journey. Above all, those searching for something fresh to do this winter or just have some free time until spring arrives. Perhaps your next trip should include a flight over America’s tallest waterfalls.  Click here to schedule your helicopter trip.

Visiting Niagara Falls Without Boat Ride?

The Voyage To The Falls Boat Ride is a wonderful choice if searching for an exciting trip to Niagara Falls.

In addition to being a globally recognized symbol, this boat gives excursions that showcase Toronto’s beautiful flora while also providing visitors with an understanding of Canadian customs and culture. The finest thing to do and see at Niagara Falls is to watch the Falls from the comfort of your own home. Furthermore, the boat sails straight into the middle of it all, engulfing you in water like raging waves. This may be added to your Niagara Falls list of things to do and see.

To book your boat tour, Click here .

Kids Are Going To Have Fun Too!

This place, formerly known as the “Capital of Honeymoon,” now has a lot of places for the amusement of children. One of the finest things to do and see in Niagara Falls is to ride Niagara Sky Wheel. It is a great experience to fly 175 feet above the Fall in climate-controlled gondolas. Not only this, there are now so many other places for the kids’ enjoyment, like a haunted house, a gaming center, and a lot of places serving different cuisines. Niagara Falls is a whole package for people of all ages.

What Is There Behind The Falls?

If you are looking for an experience that can give you goosebumps of joy and thrill, you must go behind the waterfall. You must go 125 feet below earth and tour 130-year-old bedrock tunnels to get the complete Niagara Falls experience. One of Niagara’s most well-known sights is Horseshoe Falls. Take some time to appreciate seeing apertures carved into the rock from which you may watch a fifth of the world’s freshwater tumbling down right before your eyes!

Unforgettable Zipline

Something adventurous and breathtaking is the desire of all the jaunty people. And if you want to experience that, then zipline to the Falls at Grand View Marketplace is for you!

This breathtaking ride will take your breath away as it flies past American waterfalls and settles on top of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls viewing deck in under two hours!

Get Thrilled On Whirlpool Jet Boat

The Whirlpool Jetboat tour is a fantastic way to spend a short yet exciting 10-minute journey from Niagara Falls. This boat offers a variety of thrilling activities, such as swirling water and rapid speeds! If you want to experience some tremendous excitement in your life, you must take this journey! Open or closed jetboats – whether you get wet or not on this trip is entirely up to you.

Niagara-On-The-Lake

The Shaw Festival Theatre, Canada’s second-largest producing theatre, is located in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Furthermore, performances are held in three theatres and an outdoor theatre with handicapped seating from May to December.

Delightful Evenings In Niagara

Apart from the delightful days, the Falls are a great attraction for visitors at night time. When flashing at the falling water, neon colors give the eyes a lifetime image to capture. Fireworks in summers add a feather in the cap.

Staying overnight in Niagara Falls, Canada, allows you to enjoy the nightlife. At night, Niagara Falls offers a plethora of activities. Niagara Falls, Canada, provides everything for everyone, from exciting activities to excellent restaurants to pubs, 24-hour casinos, and nightclubs. Don’t miss the chance to experience the nightlife of Niagara Falls. The world-famous Niagara Falls fireworks display is a must-see for visitors, with over 100 performances scheduled this summer. On select days throughout the tourist season, from May to October, fireworks are fired over the Falls at 10:00 p.m. Niagara Parkway and Queen Victoria Park are the most significant sites to observe the fireworks.

A trip to Niagara Falls is a great way to get away from every day and celebrate special occasions. The nighttime truly is the right time when visiting the Falls! To book your evening tour with ToNiagara Click here .

Some Free Things In Niagara Falls!

There are several free perspectives from which to watch the Falls and other free Niagara Falls attractions. If you’re on a budget, try these suggestions:

Fireworks over the Falls – Catch fireworks shows over the Horseshoe Falls on select nights only. ( Click here to check the schedule)

Botanical Gardens – 99 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, including a world-famous rose garden.

Dufferin Islands – Park located half a mile south of the Falls with many islands connected by footbridges.

Niagara Glen Nature Reserve – Great spots for hiking with views of the Whirlpool Rapids.

Floral Clock – One of the largest floral clocks in the world, it has a diameter of 40 feet and uses 16,000 plants.

Queen Victoria Park – A lovely park on its own, but a must-visit for its view of the Falls.

Now you have all the information you need to start planning your trip to Niagara Falls. Take the hassle out of planning your tour to Niagara Falls this year by booking now. You must see this place at least once in your lifetime.

If you have any questions about tours and bookings, please visit  ToNiagara

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The Ultimate Guide to Niagara Falls: An honest guide to Niagara Falls by a resident

June 10, 2018 by Karen Turner 32 Comments

As a former Buffalo resident who has been to Niagara Falls more times than I can count, it was time to write a complete guide to Niagara Falls with tips for travelers visiting these epic waterfalls.

Visiting Niagara Falls is a magical experience, especially for families, and it ranks high on many people’s bucket lists. Here you’ll find tips to help you decide which side of Niagara Falls to visit, where to eat in Niagara Falls, when is the best time to visit Niagara Falls, and logistics on how to get to Niagara Falls.

This guide includes a FREE Niagara Falls map that you can download offline with Google Maps at the end!  

• 1 What is covered in this ultimate Niagara Falls guide:
• 2 Where is Niagara Falls located?
• 3 Why visit Niagara Falls?
• 4 What to do in Niagara Falls and day trips from Niagara Falls
• 5 Best viewpoints of Niagara Falls
• 6 Where to stay in Niagara Falls? Hotels in Niagara Falls
• 7 How long to spend at Niagara Falls? 
• 8 Which side of Niagara Falls is best: American side or Canadian side?
• 9 Is Niagara Falls a tourist trip? Should you go to Niagara Falls?
• 10 One day itinerary for Niagara Falls
• 11.1 Food on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls
• 11.2 Food on the American side
• 12 When is the best time to visit Niagara Falls? ​
• 13 How to get to Niagara Falls; Do you need a car to visit Niagara Falls?
• 14 What do you need to pack for Niagara Falls?
• 15 Safety tips for Niagara Falls
• 16 Do you need a tour to visit Niagara Falls?
• 17 Have you visited Niagara Falls?  Anything I missed? ​

What is covered in this ultimate Niagara Falls guide:

Where is niagara falls located, why visit niagara falls.

• What to do in Niagara Falls? What are the Niagara Falls attractions?

Best viewpoints of Niagara Falls

• Where to stay in Niagara Falls: Hotels in Niagara Falls
• How long to spend in Niagara Falls?

Which side of Niagara Falls is best: American side or Canadian side?

• Is Niagara Falls a tourist trap?  ​/  Should you go to Niagara Falls?
• 1 day itinerary for Niagara Falls

Where to eat in at Niagara Falls, Ontario and Niagara Falls, New York

• When is the best time to visit Niagara Falls?

How to get to Niagara Falls; Do you need a car to visit Niagara Falls?

What do you need to pack for niagara falls, safety tips for niagara falls, do you need a tour to visit niagara falls .

It’s on the New York and Canadian border along the Niagara river, which flows between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie (two of the Great Lakes). It’s in the westernmost part of New York State, which is part of the East Coast.

Niagara Falls to New York is about about 8 hours each way by car (without stopping) or about 10-12 hours with Megabus/public transit, so this is not a day trip from New York City.  It is a nice stopover if you’re traveling from New York to Toronto.  (Scroll to the bottom for a free map of Niagara Falls!)

Niagara Falls is actually composed of three waterfalls although the most famous waterfall is Horseshoe Falls. The combination of flow rate and height make the falls epic to see in person. This does not include the loud roar of the waterfall.

Niagara Falls is the perfect family getaway as there are lots of kid-friendly activities nearby and it will impress your kids (I promise!).  It’s a perfect day trip if you’re traveling in between the United States and Canada.

What to do in Niagara Falls and day trips from Niagara Falls

You will see many things to do in Niagara Falls while reading online… and while in Niagara Falls, you’ll find that Niagara Falls tourism is mostly unrelated to the falls. Just be aware of the tourist traps.

See Niagara Falls from both sides: American and Canadian!

Take the Maid of the Mist / Hornblower [Canadian side] or Cave of the Winds for a unique view of Niagara Falls.

Hornblower v. Maid of the Mist. Which one to choose?  If you’re trying to decide whether to take the  Hornblower  or Maid of the Mist, note that the Hornblower boat goes from the Canadian side while Maid of the Mist departs from the New York side.

Both boats follow the same route although the  Hornblower boats carry more passengers .  (You can purchase both tickets in advance.)

Take a day trip from Niagara Falls to  visit the adorable town of Niagara-on-the-Lake  for the summer Shakespeare festival and its famous ice wine. You can taste ice wine ( bring a designated driver! ) in Canada’s wine capital.  Ice wine is made by allowing the grapes to freeze on the vines, which makes the wine extra sweet–and very alcoholic.  ( You can take a day tour with ice wine tastings from the Canadian side, including a designated driver !)

See the Niagara Falls light show (at night). The schedule for the Falls Illuminationvaries throughout the year with the sunset, but if you’re taking a day trip, see if you can stick around for the magic of the lights!

For those with kids, add some of the many kid-friendly attractions in the area to your list.  One of the main attractions is the Fallsview water park.

Niagara Falls has a lot to offer for adults as well. You’ll find plenty of clubs/bars (admittedly with lots of 19 – year old Americans) and gambling.  There are two casinos in Niagara falls: Fallsview on the Canadian side and Seneca Niagara Casino on the New York Side.  Have a cocktail at the Sheraton bar overlooking the falls.

• Goat Island on the New York side for the crazy over the edge view.
• Sheraton hotel if you’re into a cocktail with a view (Canadian side)
• Maid of the Mist boat /  Hornblower [Canadian side]  (requires fee)
• Cave of the Winds (requires fee)
• The Rainbow Bridge
• Journey Behind the Falls if you want the epic tunnel shot (requires fee)
• Footpath leaving up to Journey behind the walls (for the wider angle shot!)

Where to stay in Niagara Falls? Hotels in Niagara Falls

You’ll find a large assortment of hotels for every budget in Niagara Falls, but hotels in Niagara Falls are most expensive in peak season (summer).  Prior to the advent of popularity of airplane travel among Americans, Niagara Falls was a major honeymoon destination, so you’ll still find some  cute and kitschy ‘50s motels  in Niagara Falls, Ontario for those looking for cheap hotels in Niagara Falls.

You’ll also find standard American hotels on both sides of the falls.  The Marriott  on the Canadian side is the well known hotel for its view of the falls.  For a 5* experience, consider staying at the  Sterling Inn & Spa .

If you’re interested in saving money, you can  stay in nearby Buffalo  (on the American side) after seeing the falls.

You’ll find many reasonable hotels (some in  historic buildings in Downtown Buffalo ), funky neighborhoods ( Elmwood Village and Allentown ) , and many reasonable food options. This includes Duff’s if you want to try the  best Buffalo wings in Buffalo! 

How long to spend at Niagara Falls? 

One day is all you need to visit Niagara Falls. (It is the perfect day trip from Toronto.) If you want to visit the ice wineries, you’ll need an extra day.  It’s possible to visit Niagara Falls and Niagara on the Lake in one day if you take a tour from Toronto!

Canadian side hands-down. The falls are magnificent, but you can only see the height/views of the falling water with a partial view…but the Canadian side of Niagara Falls gives you the epic view/feeling that made you want to visit.

If you don’t mind getting drenched in the midst (which gets  more intense as you get closer to Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side), you’ll feel like you’re in a superhero movie.

Is Niagara Falls a tourist trip? Should you go to Niagara Falls?

YES , but it depends how much you love waterfalls.  I’ve been to both sides many times, but honestly, I really do not like the American side and this is a sentiment I’ve heard from quite a few people.

One day itinerary for Niagara Falls

If you’re day-tripping from within the US with a car, park your car (bring cash to pay for parking!) on the American side and walk across the Rainbow Bridge (the Canadian/American pedestrian border crossing) to the Canadian side, which has an epic view of the falls.

Driving across can be time-consuming depending on the line at the Peace Bridge (especially around rush hour), so check the wait ahead although I’ve always found the pedestrian bridge much faster.

Buy tickets for Maid of the Mist /  Hornblower  as buy a cheap poncho if you don’t have one. (You can take the boat from either side.)

Walk around Clifton Hill (15 minutes) past all the tourist traps to enjoy the view of Horseshoe Falls.

Enjoy the view and catch the illumination show if you’re there around sunset.

Head back to the American side to enjoy the overlook over the American falls from Goat Island (New York side), which allows you to look STRAIGHT down the falls.

Food on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls

Do you love TGIF’s? Y ou’re in luck. If you can think of every single chain restaurant, …it’s in Clifton Hill (the touristic part of Niagara Falls).  I have heard that the new IHOP on the Canadian side has a nice view, but besides  Antica Pizzeria ,

I’d recommend  eating before  as you’ll pay tourist prices for food that you could get almost anywhere. There are more options as you get further from the touristy areas, but if you’re on foot, you will be limited by your choices.

You can check off your Canadian bucket list by trying poutine, which is french fries made with cheese curds and gravy, at  Smoke’s Poutinerie . (I know it sounds horrifying, but it is so delicious!) If you need a snack, visit the Canadian chain Tim Horton’s for some donuts and hot chocolate.

Food on the American side

Consider stopping by the Third Street Retreat for a cozy meal. Alternatively, you can picnic on Goat Island as well as eat at one of the cafes within Niagara Fall State Park.

If you have a car, stop off at  Wegmans supermarket  to stock up on picnic supplies or order a delicious handmade sub with special oil dressing. You can also get food to go from the buffet section OR the salad bar. It is truly the best supermarket in the area and it’s 24 hours with a fantastic selection of beer. (I love Wegmans!)

My local friend recommends visiting  The Como Restaurant  it is a classic Niagara Falls institution famous for Italian food.  Be sure to try the garlic bread.

Otherwise, stop off at  Dicamillo Bread  in Niagara Falls for their bread and their cannolis, as recommended by my friend who spent a lot of her childhood in Niagara Falls.

When is the best time to visit Niagara Falls?  ​

Summer without question. Although you’ll have the crowds, it is very windy at Niagara Falls and the extra spray can feel really good on a hot day.

In winter, you’ll just be ready to curl up with a hot chocolate away from the falls after snapping a photo, however if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the falls frozen over (which is a very rare occurrence).

Niagara Falls’ average temperature in December is 21 degrees F / -6 C in December…so imagine getting sprayed with freezing cold water in addition to being blown around by heavy winds while standing in a blizzard. (That sums up my feelings about visiting in winter.)

If you’re staying in Niagara Falls for 1-2 days, you don’t need a car.

The best airport for the United States to get to Niagara Falls is from  Niagara Falls International Airport  OR  Buffalo Niagara International Airport . Fares are usually cheaper from the Buffalo AIrport. From the Canadian side, you’ll want to fly into  Toronto International Airport.

If you fly into Buffalo Niagara International Airport, I strongly recommend renting a car. This area has public transit, but it is much easier to drive.

If you use public transit to get to Niagara Falls from Buffalo Airport, you will spend a lot of money on a taxi OR spend two hours on a bus (take the 24 towards Downtown Buffalo then transfer by the Greyhound Station [Washington St & South Division St] to the 40 bus to Niagara Falls. (It’s $2 that you can pay on the bus although be sure to ask for a transfer!) Note that the bus only runs 5am to midnight, so if you come in late, you cannot take the bus.

From Niagara Falls International AIrport to Niagara Falls, it will take one hour ($2) on the 55 bus to reach the American side of the falls.

You can also take the train or Megabus to get from Toronto to Niagara Falls, which will take about two hours. It’s much easier with a car.

If you’re going from New York to Niagara Falls without a car, you have four options.

• Take a Greyhound from New York City to Niagara Falls (with a transfer in Buffalo). (10 hours)
• Ride a Megabus towards Buffalo (with taking a Greyhound/public bus to Niagara Falls (12 hours)
• Take an Amtrak train from Penn Station (New York City) to Niagara Falls direct. (10 hours)
• Fly from New York (LGA) to Buffalo (BUF).  (5 hours)
• Your passport card (for Americans) OR passport to visit the Canadian side (and vice versa)
• A fully charged  camera  and  portable power bank  for your phone
• A  poncho  and/or waterproof bag if you’re planning on going Maid of the Mist / Hornblower
• Your hotel reservations if you’re crossing the border as immigration officials often ask you how long you’ll be visiting and a hotel reservation can speed things up considerably
• Warm clothes in winter, especially a  good winter jacket !
• Sneakers as the footpath can very slippery year-round, but especially so in winter.
• Picnic supplies if you’re on a budget

Do not dangle your camera or phone over the edge. I promise this will not end well. Hold your phone tight, especially in winter.

Be careful in Niagara Falls, especially the American side. I wish I was kidding, but it has one of the highest violent crime rates in the United States.

High crime is an issue primarily for residents, but still, be careful on the New York side of Niagara Falls. This includes not leaving your valuables visible in the car, which is a bad idea  anywhere .

Don’t come hungry and/or broke. You’ll pay tourist prices and …well, it’s just best to eat before.

Wear sneakers as the footpaths near the falls can be very icy in winter or just slippery in summer.

No, you do not need a tour for your trip to Niagara Falls, however it is not a “convenient” place to visit if you’re doing a larger US trip.  Unless you’re passing through this area OR have it very high on your bucket list, it is a bit expensive to visit for one day. If you have limited time and this is high on your bucket list, it might be worth it to take a tour package to Niagara Falls.

Have you visited Niagara Falls?  Anything I missed?  ​

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

June 11, 2017 at 3:43 am

I agree with you. I have been and it wasn’t really my thing. I mean it was pretty but the American side has strip malls right near the falls. Kind of detracts from the beauty. But this guide is great and I will tell anyone going to check it out. So helpful!

June 11, 2017 at 4:11 am

This is the best guide to the falls I’ve seen in a long time! Love the info and photos.

June 11, 2017 at 4:44 am

This is an AWESOME guide! I like how you show both the American and Canadian side of Niagara Falls, giving suggestions for food and view points.

June 11, 2017 at 4:52 am

This is a great comprehensive guide and super helpful! I wouldn’t expect anything less from you, I always love your guides!! 🙂

June 11, 2017 at 4:55 am

The pictures are STUNNING! I have never been to Niagara Falls, but I hope to go one day. I knew that the falls crossed the borders, but I didn’t realize that there was a difference in the views/experience! Truly informative guide that I plan to save for when I am able to go on the trip. The ice wine sounds like something I would definitely enjoy doing 🙂

June 11, 2017 at 6:38 am

Your photos are amazing! I haven’t been to Niagara Falls yet but would love to go. The photo of the falls frozen over is so cool! Although I would definitely prefer to visit in summer 🙂

June 11, 2017 at 7:59 am

Ahhh back at it with the badass guides! I love this! I went to Niagara Falls once when I was young, but barely remember a thing. I’ve been teetering back and forth on whether or not to go again this summer since I’ll be on the East Coast, but I think this post sealed the deal… and it’ll most definitely come in handy. Thank you thank you thank you.

June 11, 2017 at 12:51 pm

This is a really useful post! I’ve visited Niagara Falls but from the Canadian side only – it was a day trip from Toronto which included Niagara-on-the-Lake and a wine tasting, as well as plenty of time at the falls. Interesting to hear more about the American side which I only saw from the boat!

Yes, it’s a tourist trap, but you can tune that out (mostly) and the falls really are spectacular. Definitely worth the trip.

June 11, 2017 at 1:29 pm

I have never been to The Niagara Falls but this seems a pretty informative guide for those who want to go. I would love to experience it at least once for myself.Thank you for sharing it!

June 11, 2017 at 2:28 pm

Oh man, Nigara Falls has been on my bucket list for such a long time. I’m definitely thinking that the Canadian side is a lot more impressive than the US side. I’ve also wanted to visit Canada for equal amount of time, so this definitely needs to happen soon! Beautiful photos, and awesome in-depth useful post! Thank you 😀

June 11, 2017 at 3:15 pm

Your photos of the falls are awesome! I’ve never been but would love to go see the falls and try to experience some of the mid-century kitsch that is still there. Buffalo NY is still on my list to visit as well. Great guide!

June 11, 2017 at 4:01 pm

This guide is awesome! I think Niagara Falls is a fun place to visit every once in a while if you’re not too far away. I spent a couple of weeks in Buffalo a while ago, so my boyfriend met me there for the weekend since he’d never been before. We had a pretty good time even though a lot of the touristy stuff was closed for the winter. I would second the Smoke’s Poutinerie recommendation, as I’ve been obsessed with it since trying some of their offerings in Ottawa last year. There’s talk of them opening a location in Detroit soon, and I’m praying that the food gods make it happen so I can eat it all the time.

June 11, 2017 at 9:32 pm

I wish I had read this guide before our first visit!! Niagara Falls was the first place my partner and I went to on our first ever travels together and is actually where we said we loved each other for the first time! As cheesy and busy as the Canadian side was in the height of summer, I actually loved spending the day doing the various activities around the falls and then the evenings sipping weird and wonderful cocktails and visiting the silly wax museums and mini golf course! 🙂

June 12, 2017 at 4:24 am

I find it so cool that two countries share the same landmark. I haven’t been to the Niagara falls but my grandmother has talked a lot about it. She visited it so many years ago. Your pictures bring life to her words.

June 12, 2017 at 3:44 pm

This article is so fitting for me as I don’t live too far from the Canadian side and want to go this summer! So helpful 🙂 especially love the map. Nice touch!!

June 13, 2017 at 2:13 am

This is a great guide! I was so bummed when the Maid of the Mist left the Canadian side and they replaced it with the “hornblower” boat! I loved dawning the blue poncho and getting wet like Bruce Almighty! You need to try the Windows restaurant at the Sheraton! BEST beetroot soup in the world.

June 14, 2017 at 8:23 pm

I found this post to be SO helpful as I will be at the falls in only a couple of days. I loved the tip about parking on the American side and walking over to the Canadian side. Eeeek – I’m so excited now! Thanks for sharing!

June 15, 2017 at 4:55 pm

This is so timely and so useful! I’m planning a trip to Canada and I’ll be stopping in Toronto for a few days, and of course I will be visiting the falls. Bookmarking it! Thanks for sharing 🙂

July 27, 2017 at 6:43 pm

Niagara Falls is amazing! I saw it 6 years ago from the Canadian side with my family in the peak summer holiday season. Though touristy, the falls and The Maid of the Mist boat tour really gets up close to the falls and really beautiful. This is one of those places that you have to see in person.

December 31, 2017 at 10:13 pm

Well done! This post carries its title like a charm! This is more than a mouth full and all that one truly need to know in just one post! Thanks a lot!

March 3, 2018 at 4:50 pm

Some of the hotels have shuttles from the buffalo airport to the Canadian side. We waited to rent a car when we got to the hotel.

March 3, 2018 at 4:51 pm

That’s a helpful note to have Alexia! Great money saving tip 🙂

May 9, 2019 at 11:45 pm

We recently went to the American side (April 25-28, 2019). I was shocked to see how dirty the city was. Trash just blew across the streets and no one seemed to care. I thought at least the hotel staff would clean up in front of their building but there was bags, napkins, and even a diaper rolling down the street. We stayed at the Sheraton and the Wyndam while in town. No wonder everyone says Canada is better, the American side is run down and looks like none of the tourist money is going back into it. Empty buildings, empty lots and a huge eye sore that use to be a large slide. Someone should take pride and put it back into making the American side a nice tourist attraction again. Next time my money will go to the Canadians.

July 8, 2019 at 2:01 am

Having gone to college in niagara falls over 40 years ago, i was shocked at the downtown niagara falls ny. took our 5 year old grandkids to NF last year. The state park on the American side is beautiful. Much nicer than when i was in college. Picnic on three sisters island. But we stayed in Canada. Red coach inn on the NY side is probably the only place i would stay. In canada you can pick from a travelodge right on Clifton hill or a high class hotel. I would suggest if you are spending a full day in canada, purchase an all day bus pass. Lots of walking back and forth. And yes walk over the rainbow bridge. But also on the american side is the cave of the winds tour and an overview to see the falls. It is beautiful in summer and a crystal wonderland in the winter. Kids will want to do everything on clifton hill so be prepared.

May 25, 2019 at 1:37 pm

Thank you for the write up. To the point and one of the most helpful write ups I’ve found on the Falls. We’re stopping at the Falls as part of a Canadian road trip and was wondering how much days we’ll need. I know there are a lot of other attractions other than the Falls and I found articles advocating for 2-3 days but based on your article it does seem like a full day is enough. We’ll spend the extra day or two at Thousand Islands or Mont Tremblant instead!

June 19, 2019 at 12:48 am

I have a group of about 30 Sr. adults visiting the falls in Oct. We will be staying in NYC a few days and taking the Amtrak to Niagara, NY. The train gets in about 4:30 p.m. We are staying at the Sheraton on the Falls, Canadian side. Will we have time to see and do anything on the American side before crossing into Canada? From reading, there’s not much to see, but what is not to be missed on the American side? We will have the entire next day and night to explore the Canadian side, and our flight doesn’t leave from Buffalo until 5:30 on the following (3rd) day. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated, or if you could recommend a guide.

June 19, 2019 at 3:00 am

Hi Becky, The Amtrak station is a bit of a walk from Goat Island and Cave of the Winds, but in theory, if you wanted to go, you could. I just think that it would be quite annoying to carry your luggage with you. The Lightshow can be seen from both sides and it’s nice at night.

I think that a day exploring Niagara Falls is more than enough and I’d recommend seeing if you can do a half day on Niagara-on-the-Lake with a private tour on the second (full) day after seeing the falls in the morning. Could be a fun excursion. Of the choices near Niagara Falls, that is usually what I recommend the most as it’s not as kitschy. Then, you have the rest of the last day for doing other activities around the falls and maybe visiting Buffalo.

Hope you all have a good time! I don’t have a specific guide in mind as I always went independently.

June 28, 2019 at 2:40 am

Karen, Thanks for the great guide! We’ll be visiting the Canada side in about a month so I’m obsessing over the itinerary. You mentioned an ice wine tour with designated driver for just $60. I know it’s been a few years since you wrote this, but what tour is that? The only ones I’m finding are pretty pricey. Thank you for the great tip of bringing our lodging reservation with us to the border. We never would have thought of that.

July 2, 2019 at 11:10 am

Hi Dena, prices change, so apologies if they’re higher now! I still hope that you have a great time!

November 3, 2019 at 9:44 pm

Hi! I will be in Buffalo this week. My husband and I are staying in downtown Buffalo, and want to spend a half day at Niagara Falls. From reading this guide, I am planning In is taking an Uber to Goat Island, then the Rainbow Bridge across to the Canadian side and catching that view. Is Uber pretty popular in the Buffalo/Niagara area? And when ordering the Uber, what should we choose as our NF “destination”? Any tips are much appreciated! This guide seem so helpful!

November 3, 2019 at 10:10 pm

Yes, Uber is very popular. You can walk from Goat Island to the Rainbow Bridge pretty easily before walking across. I’d ask for Goat Island as your destination. The Uber might need to drop you off by the parking lot (not sure how close you can get to “Niagara Falls Parking Lot 2” with the uber, but worth a try), but that should get you close enough. Enjoy. 🙂

February 7, 2020 at 3:55 pm

Thank-you for your thorough itinerary of Niagara Falls. I live an hour away from there. You’re right about Niagara On The Lake. It’s beautiful. I took a tour with Ghost Walks. The tour would take you around there and learned the history of the place. The tour was informative and entertaining. H

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There's More to the Niagara Falls Region Than the Iconic Waterfall — Here's How to Plan the Perfect Trip

Most travelers venture to Niagara Falls for the picture-perfect view, but a host of new visitor experiences can help you see this world wonder in a whole other light.

As we drove past North America's largest waterfall, Lezlie Harper, the founder of Niagara Bound Tours told the story of a sign that once hung in downtown Niagara Falls, Ontario.

"It read 'Don't forget to see the falls,' " she said with a laugh, before gesturing to the majestic cascade in front of us. "As if you could miss it!" I laughed, too, but the truth is that, for many years, I had blithely driven past this wonder of the world with barely a glance.

When I was a kid growing up in a Toronto suburb, Niagara Falls was the place I begrudgingly visited when relatives flew in from out of town. I didn't know then that it is actually a trio—Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls sit side-by-side along the Canada-U.S. border—or that the charms of the region extend far beyond its main attraction.

But last autumn, I took a four-day trip with a girlfriend, Viji, and was reintroduced to the landmark and the city—along with its quaint little sister about 25 minutes north, Niagara-on-the-Lake. And on this visit, I found a new appreciation for the place I thought I knew.

Viji and I started at—where else?—the falls. Over lunch at Table Rock House Restaurant (entrées $24–$38), which is perched at the edge of Horseshoe Falls, we oohed and aahed at the crashing curtain of water right in front of us. Next, we took a short stroll to the Niagara Parks Power Station , which used the falls to provide electricity to much of the region for a century, beginning in 1905. It reopened in 2021 as an interactive museum that highlights the lives of the people who worked at the plant.

As we stood in the shadows of the turbines we'd learned about earlier, projections brought the workers and machinery to life.

We also took a hard-hat sneak peek at an upcoming attraction, which has since then opened. As of July 2021, a glass elevator takes people 180 feet underground into the old Tailrace Tunnel. The descent mimics the route the water once took through the power plant. After disembarking at the bottom, guests are able to stand on an outdoor platform for an entirely new vantage point of the falls.

That evening, we had dinner at AG Inspired Cuisine (prix fixe $89), a restaurant set in a former creamery in downtown Niagara Falls. The menu—which included a winter-squash bisque, juniper-roasted deer loin with a vegetable cassoulet, and a cranberry poached pear—celebrates Niagara terroir, and much of the produce comes from the restaurant's own farm 10 minutes away.

Later in the night we returned to the power station to experience Currents: Niagara's Power Transformed, an immersive indoor light and sound show. As we stood in the shadows of the turbines we'd learned about earlier, projections brought the workers and machinery to life and helped convey the importance of the plant to the region and the province. Afterward, we retired to the historic Old Stone Inn Boutique Hotel (doubles from $159), located steps from the water.

On our second morning we met Harper, our guide for a tour that followed the journey of the enslaved Africans (including Harper's own ancestors) who made their way to Canada. Most history books stop with their arrival via the Underground Railroad , but Harper shared what happened in the decades that followed. She told us about Josiah Henson—a once-enslaved man who found his way to freedom along with his wife and four children, inspired Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel Uncle Tom's Cabin, and became a founder of one of the most successful Black communities in southern Ontario. Harper also talked about the predecessor of the NAACP, a civil rights organization called the Niagara Movement, which had its initial meeting in 1905 in Fort Erie, a town on the Niagara River. As I looked out at the powerful waters, I found it hard not to become emotional at the thought of the men, women, and children who risked their lives to cross over to freedom.

More Trip Ideas : The 12 Best Small Towns in Canada

Viji and I continued our drive along the river to meet Tim Johnson at the Landscape of Nations . He is the director of the Landscape of Nations 360° Indigenous Education Initiative, a nonprofit that aims to educate Canadians about the contributions of Indigenous peoples. Johnson walked us across the site of the War of 1812's pivotal Battle of Queenston Heights. We paused just outside a collection of rails meant to symbolize a longhouse, an Indigenous style of dwelling, before following a stone trail through a memorial built to acknowledge the Six Nations' aid in the war.

Visitors can enter without a guide, but being with Johnson allowed Viji and me to ask questions and reframe the history we'd been taught as kids. I made a mental note to book a full Indigenous Niagara Living Museum tour in the future.

Afterward, we wound north to Niagara-on-the-Lake and checked in to 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa (doubles from $209) . Our apartment-like two-bedroom suite sat above a row of shops, offering views of the old-fashioned main street below. Recent renovations added a lounge for both guests and locals, plus a hydrotherapy-focused spa.

As I looked out at the powerful waters, I found it hard not to become emotional at the thought of the men, women, and children who risked their lives to cross over to freedom.

After a long day, we were thankful to be just steps from Treadwell Cuisine (prix fixe $95), an upscale restaurant in Niagara-on-the-Lake's Old Town. I ordered steak frites with a Cabernet Franc from the local Stratus Vineyards, while Viji went for a Sauvignon Blanc from nearby Five Rows Craft Wine to pair with her pan-seared scallops. From our window booth, we watched a parade of shoppers wander the street outside and remarked on how rarely we take the opportunity to sit and absorb the scenes around us. It was a simple pleasure to do just that.

This is wine country—there are more than 50 vineyards in the Niagara region along Lake Ontario—and Niagara-on-the-Lake is particularly renowned for its ice wines. We began our tasting tour just outside of town with lunch at the intimate Two Sisters Vineyards (entrées $17–$40) . As it turns out, sipping Cabernet Francs and Rieslings while nibbling a delicate beef carpaccio and crisp pizza is a good way to spend an afternoon.

What seemed like just a couple of hours later, we were back at the table, this time indulging in a dinner of roasted Ontario duck breast at Trius Winery & Restaurant (prix fixe from $66) . Winemaker Craig McDonald paired his award-winning vintages with chef Frank Dodd's creations, which included butternut-squash soup and a spiced-pumpkin blondie dessert.

After dinner, we experienced one of Niagara-on-the-Lake's most beloved attractions: the Shaw Festival , which began in the early 1960s as an annual event that celebrated the works of George Bernard Shaw, but now includes a variety of productions in three theaters. We saw Desire Under the Elms, Eugene O'Neill's complicated, tragic love story, and made plans to return to see Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest in the spring.

On our final day, Harper's words not to forget the falls were on my mind, so we headed back to where our journey began. We were ready for some downtime, so we booked sessions in the Hydrotherapy Infinity tub at Christienne Fallsview Spa .

As I sank into the steaming waters and stared at the falls and the gardens that surround them, I thought of the little girl who'd once underappreciated this gem. No longer. This, I thought as the bubbles worked their magic, was the postcard memory I came for.

A version of this story first appeared in the February 2022 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline Surprise and Delight.

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Niagara Falls Travel Tips

Here is a list of many frequently asked questions about your visit to Niagara Falls.

For detailed info regarding the border at Niagara Falls visit our border crossing information page. A brief summary regarding border crossing, passport information and identification requirements is posted below.

U.S. Citizens returning to the U.S. after visiting Niagara Falls Canada are required to provide a US passport , passport card or an   enhanced drivers license at the inspection checkpoint. Enhanced licenses are available only for residents of NY,MI,MN,VT & WA. Therefore…if you are a U.S. citizen living in the U.S. and cross the border to Canada and attempt to re-enter the U.S. you will need one of the above listed forms of identification. No exceptions!

Children that are U.S. citizens under the age of 16 travelling from the U.S. to Canada and returning to the U.S. by land or sea (car or boat) are not required to have passports. An original or certified copy of their birth certificate is required. If the children are not yours you must provide a notarized signed hand written note by both parents indicating how long the child will be in the country along with telephone numbers for the parents. You will be denied entry if you are lacking proper documentation. A printed copy of the parents license or passport can help too. Visit the   CBP   website for more information regarding identification requirements for children travelling to Canada without their parents.

If you have ever been charged with a DUI (driving under the influence) in the U.S. or convicted of a minor offense you may be denied entry to Canada regardless of how long it has been. There have been a significant number of travelers denied entry even for minor infractions. Click here for more information.

For official US border crossing information visit this link . The previous link changes often and you may need to start your search here: www.cbp.gov .

If you are an international traveler and need information on entering the US please visit this link .

For official Canadian border crossing info visit   Canada border services .

V ISA INFORMATION –  If you are an international traveler and not sure if you need a tourist visa click here .  If you know that you are required to apply for a visa to visit Canada you can do it here .

Persons wishing to travel to Canada who are not U.S. citizens (ie: foreigner) may be required to get a tourist visa from the Canadian consulate in the country from which they are arriving from. If you are in the USA on a visa and wish to visit Canada while in New York there is no Canadian consulate located in Niagara Falls. YOU CANNOT OBTAIN A TOURIST VISA AT ANY OF THE BORDER CROSSINGS. When contacting the Consul, inform them that you wish to obtain a “temporary resident visa”. As of January 2024 the fee per person is $100.00 for a single entry visa, $150 for a multiple entry visa or $500 for a family (multiple or single entry). Tourists to Canada do not need to pay for a biometrics fee. For online information visit the Canadian Consul Website .

DECLARING PURCHASES –  If you make purchases and travel between Niagara Falls Ontario and Niagara Falls New York be sure to save your receipts. When crossing the international border you will be required to declare all purchases. Certain items may be taxable or you may qualify for tax refunds. Please visit the duty free stores located at the bridges between the U.S. and Canada for more information. Duty free stores in Canada and the Duty free stores in USA    .

INTERNATIONAL BRIDGES –  Crossing of either the Rainbow bridge or the Queenston/Lewiston Bridge usually takes less than five to ten minutes. You can expect one hour delays on holidays including Canada Day, Fourth of July and Labor day weekend. Credit Cards are now accepted at all bridges for paying tolls.

There are three International bridges between the U.S. and Canada within 6 mi /9.6 km  of the Falls.

500 yards/ 457 m from the American Falls is the “ Rainbow Bridge ” which offers a spectacular view of the Falls. There is no commercial traffic allowed. You can walk, bike or drive across.

1.8 mi/ 2.9 km  north of the Falls is the “Whirlpool Bridge”. Only NEXUS cardholders can use the Whirlpool bridge.

5.6 mi/9 km north of the Falls is the “Lewiston-Queenston Bridge”. This bridge is for all types of vehicles. Bicycles are allowed but not recommended.

Bridge status traveling into Canada

Bridge status traveling into the U.S.

Official Niagara Falls Bridges information click here

When crossing the international border be sure to bring a valid passport. You may be denied entry if you are lacking proper documentation.

PETS –  For travelers visiting Niagara Falls with their pets. Dogs are welcome in the park areas as long as they are leashed and cleaned up after. If you plan on crossing the border with a pet you may be asked to provide a current vaccination certificate. Most hotels do not allow pets. If you are interested in bringing your pet into Canada please visit the official Canada Inspection page . If you are interested in bringing your pet into the United States please visit the United States Department of Agriculture’s website. Only official guide dogs are permitted on certain attractions (therapy pets are not included). For more specific pet friendly information visit the Niagara Falls NY  State Park or the Niagara Parks Canada website.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS –  During the busier months of July and August, three popular attractions Boat Rides below the Falls , Cave of the Winds and Journey behind the Falls can have long waiting lines. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon.

If you are visiting during the winter months all attractions are open with the exception of the Boat Rides below the Falls, Whirlpool Jetboat, Whirlpool Aero Car and the White Water Walk. Cave of the Winds is now open year round and Niagara Zipline operates on a limited basis.

CURRENCY –  If you visit Niagara Falls from a foreign country (ie: you are from the U.S. traveling to Canada) try to purchase everything using your debit, credit, or charge cards. You will usually receive the best exchange rate from your bank. If you need to exchange currency in Niagara Falls Ontario try Casino Niagara and the Fallsview Casino . They usually give the best exchange rate (but don’t lose it all there!). There are also currency exchanges at the bridges & banks. Most businesses will exchange cash for you but do not expect a good rate.

CRIME? –  Niagara Falls has a very low crime rate. However do not leave valuables unattended in your hotel room or vehicle. If necessary check valuables with your hotels security. Unfortunately there are occasionally car break-ins so please leave nothing in plain view.

CROSSING BORDER WITH MEDICATIONS? –  If you plan on bringing prescription medications across the border be sure to bring it in the original prescription container and confirm that it has not expired. Only bring with you what you need for your visit. Large amounts of certain prescriptions may delay your clearing of customs.

FIREARMS? –  Canada has very strict firearm regulations especially for handguns. All firearms must be declared when crossing the border. Any attempt to cross the border into Canada without declaring a firearm will result in stiff penalties and possible incarceration. If you are interested in bringing a firearm into Canada you can find more information here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What time of the year is Niagara Falls open ?

A: Niagara Falls is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year.

Q: Are the Falls turned off at night ?

Q: Is there a charge to view the Falls?

A: The parks are free and open to the public 365 days a year. There are fees for parking a vehicle just about everywhere near the parks. There are also fees for municipally operated “ attractions ” ie: cave of the winds, maid of the mist, journey behind the falls.

Q: What is the best time to visit Niagara falls and what will the weather be like?

A: The best weather in Niagara Falls typically occurs from mid May until mid September. Our peak season is during the warmest months of July and August. The first few weeks of September are very nice if you want to avoid the crowds and still enjoy the warm temps. The first two weeks of October are usually the best time for viewing our Fall foliage. Due to the “microclimate” within the Niagara Gorge north of the Falls leaves tend to peak during the third or fourth week of October. Niagara Falls can be very spectacular even during the Winter. Nowadays more and more people visit the Cataract City year round. For monthly average temperatures view the graph below. Bring appropriate clothing. Summer’s for shorts and t-shirts. During Spring and Fall the weather can go from sunny and warm to cold and wet in a very short time. A light parka is handy and be sure to bring your walking shoes!

Q: Where should I stay during my visit to Niagara Falls?

A: We recommend you try and stay as close to the Falls as possible. Parking is limited during peak season and getting around on foot or using the shuttle service is the best way to get around and see the sites. We have a list of suggestions and tips here: Niagara Falls Hotel Tips .

Q: Which Fallsview hotel has the best view of the Falls?

A: Please visit our “ Fallsview Hotel ” page for more information.

Q: I don’t have a passport or visa to visit Niagara Falls Canada should I still visit Niagara Falls NY?

A: Even though over 90 percent of the visitors go to Niagara Falls Canada you can still enjoy yourself on the New York side of the border. There is a saying that in Canada you can see the Falls but in New York you can feel the Falls, referring to the “Cave of the Winds”. Both sides have their pluses and minuses. Niagara Falls NY is an aging city with not a lot to do after the sun goes down. Niagara Falls Canada has a lot more to offer if staying for a more than a day or two. Quite often you will hear that the view of Niagara Falls is much better from the Canadian side of the border. While this is statement is true you can take a ride aboard the Maid of the Mist where you will actually be viewing the Falls from the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. And yes the view is amazing!

Q: How can I receive information about Niagara Falls by mail ?

A: We do not provide any literature by postal mail. You can use this link t o obtain a Niagara Falls travel guide in the mail.

Q: What time do the lights turn on at Niagara Falls?

A: You can view the schedule right here !

Q: When are the fireworks displayed at Niagara Falls?

A: The Fireworks schedule varies throughout the year. Typically every Friday and Saturday evening during the summer months and certain holidays. You can view the schedule by following this link .

Q: Which hotel has the best view for watching the fireworks?

A: Well we’ve got you covered right here !

Q: Are there boat rides available year round ?

A: The boat rides below Niagara Falls operate from early May until late October.

Be sure to visit Now Open in Niagara Falls for up to date information.

During the winter months the NY Observation tower’s elevators are closed but the observation deck is open.

Q: What is the best way to get to Niagara Falls ?

A: By air, you have to fly into either Toronto, Ontario or Buffalo, New York.

Toronto’s airport “ Pearson International ” is 78 mi/125 km from the Rainbow Bridge. (1 hour & 11 minutes). Traffic congestion on the Q.E.W. (Queen Elizabeth Way) can double the time it takes to arrive. Realistically it usually takes 90 minutes or more.

Buffalo’s Airport “ Buffalo/Niagara International ” i s 25 mi/41 km from the Rainbow Bridge (35 minute drive). Rarely are there any traffic delays.

To get to the Falls from the airport you can either rent a car, take a shuttle bus, or arrive by taxi. More information is available from our “ transportation link “.

Greyhound Bus Service and Amtrak  (US) / VIA (Canada) train service is available directly to the cities of Niagara Falls.

Hotels do not provide courtesy shuttles to or from the airports.

Q: How long will it take to cross the bridge and clear customs?

A: Provided it is not a major holiday you can normally cross the bridge and clear inspections in less than ten minutes. Expect a ten to twenty minute wait on Fridays and Saturdays during the late afternoon and early evening going to Canada. Sunday mornings there are delays going in to the US and in the evening going back to Canada. Expect delays of thirty minutes or more on Memorial Day, Canada Day, Independence Day and Labor Day.

Q: What is the best way to visit the Falls and see the attractions?

A: The best thing to do is map out your itinerary before you arrive. To walk from one side of the Horseshoe Falls to the other via the Rainbow Bridge is 4 km/2.5 miles (8km/5 miles roundtrip) and that is a long walk! First you need to figure out how you will get to the general area of the falls itself. If you are staying at a local hotel  find out the proximity to the Falls and plan your activities from there. A typical tourist will take a  boat ride  below the Falls, view the Falls from either Queen Victoria Park in Canada or the Niagara Falls State Park in the USA (or both). In Canada you can easily walk from Table Rock visit Journey Behind the Falls and then walk to the Hornblower Niagara City Cruises docks. On the US side you can walk from the Falls Experience visitors center to Prospect Point and catch the Maid of the Mist and then walk to Goat Island for the Cave of the Winds , Terrapin Point and the Three Sisters Island.

Both the Niagara Falls U.S.A and Niagara Falls Canada Parks departments offer a transit system which stops at the major attractions in their respective countries. The Niagara Falls Canada “ WeGo ” transits along the Niagara River from Table Rock to Queenston Heights Park with thirteen different stops. In the US the Parks Trolley system runs a three mile circular route and has six stops. For rates and info visit this link: niagarafallsstatepark .

Tour companies are abound in Niagara Falls. Be sure to compare what is included with the tour including admissions to the attractions you will visit. While tours tend to be more expensive, they can take a lot of hassle out of walking everywhere and at the end of the day you are still left with plenty of energy for the evening.

Q: How far is the train station from the Falls itself ?

A: In Niagara Falls Ontario, the Via Rail station (4223 Bridge Street, tel:1-800-361-1235) is 1.6 mi/2.5 km from the Rainbow Bridge. In Niagara Falls NY the Amtrak train station (825 Depot Ave W) is 1.6 mi/4.5 km from the Rainbow Bridge.

Q: How far is the Bus terminal from the Falls.

A: In Niagara Falls NY, the Greyhound   bus terminal (120 Old Main Street, Niagara Falls, NY) is .6 miles/1 km from the Rainbow Bridge. In Niagara Falls Ontario the GoTransit terminal (4555 Erie St. tel: 905-357-2133) is 1.6 mi/2.5 km from the Rainbow bridge.

Q: Where can I obtain driving directions and a map of Niagara Falls ?

A: Visit our maps & info page .

Q: Where can I park my car when visiting Niagara Falls ?

A: If you are visiting just for the day there are many overpriced municipally operated parking lots which charge a fee. In Niagara Falls New York you can park at the Niagara Reservation State Park near the Rainbow Bridge or on Goat Island. In New York there is also the One Niagara Visitor Center which typically offers lower parking rates. In Niagara Falls Canada there are parking lots near the “Table Rock House” adjacent to the Canadian “Horseshoe” Falls. When the lots fill up there is a shuttle service to satellite parking. If you are spending the night all hotels offer parking and there is almost always a fee. You can get discounted parking at the Fallsview Casino if you obtain a “frequent player card” which involves filling out a form to receive newsletters and other promotional information. Please visit our “where to park in Niagara Falls”.

Q: Is my US drivers license valid in Canada and vice versa?

Q: Is my automobile insurance valid while in Canada?

A: In most cases yes including car rentals. You may want to verify this with your insurance company.

Q: Will my US cell phone work in Niagara Falls Canada and vice versa?

A: Most major carriers (Verizon, AT&T, Rogers) service will work within about a mile of the international border. If you need to place your phone in roam mode additional charges may be incurred. Many carriers now offer discount options and checking with your carrier before you arrive can save some headaches and money!

Q: Do you arrange tours of the Falls?

A: You can reserve a tour by checking our “ tours ” page.

Q: Where can I exchange my currency ?

A: There are quite a few currency exchange locations in the area and on both sides of the Rainbow Bridge. The best way to pay for your visit is to place everything on credit cards and typically you’ll get the best exchange rate from your bank.

Q: I’ll be in New York City and would like to visit Niagara Falls. What are my options ?

A: New York City is 406 mi/653 km from Niagara Falls.

By car: It’s a 6.5 hour drive. The quickest route from NY City is to take interstate 80 west to 81 north to 90 west then 190 north to the Niagara Scenic Parkway.

By plane: It is a 45 minute flight. From airport to airport it will usually take three to four hours including driving time to the falls. You can arrange for Buffalo Airport pickups and tours at grayline tours or taxi service through Buffalo Airport Taxi. It’s a 30 minute drive from the Buffalo airport to the Falls.

By Train: The train ride is great, much of the route follows the New York State Barge Canal and Hudson River. The trip takes nine hours and costs $55.00 each way. Usually four departures daily starting at 7:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. Amtrak offers service from Penn Station in Manhattan. Visit Amtrak’s website for more details.

Greyhound /FlixBus offers bus service to Niagara Falls. This route takes 9-11 hours and the fare is typically $69.00 each way. Many departure times are available but the ride is exceptionally long.

We are always looking to improve our travel guide and if you did not find the information you are looking for please send us an e-mail and we will add it to our website. Our e-mail address is [email protected].

Thoroughly Travel

Niagara Falls from the Canadian Side: The 9 Best Things to Do

The 9 Best Things to do in Niagara Falls on the Canadian side, how to get there from Toronto, what to eat, where to stay, interactive map and more!

(Updated 2024)

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Time needed: 1-2 days.

When to go: Spring (May-June) and Fall (September-October) are quieter than peak season in July and August and should offer pleasant weather.

Weather: Temperatures of -5-18°C (23-64°F) in winter and 0-17°C (32-62°F) in summer, with between 7-12 days of rain a month.

Language: English and French.

Currency: Canadian dollar.

Is Niagara Falls in Canada or America?

Niagara Falls actually lies on the border between the province of Ontario in Canada and the state of New York in the United States. While not record breaking, Niagara Falls is famous for the sheer amount of water that thunders down the Niagara River and over its edge. Standing beside this powerhouse of a cascade is awe-inspiring and should be on your travel bucket list.

Is it better to visit Niagara Falls from the Canadian side or the American side?

Many people (including us) believe that Niagara Falls is best experienced from the Canadian side . While both sides offer different angles and viewpoints of the falls, the Canadian side gives you better panoramic views of the cascades. If you have the time, it is possible to visit both sides of the falls in one day. But if you’re wondering how to choose which side of Niagara Falls to see, we’ve listed the pros and cons of each side of Niagara Falls below.

The main Niagara Falls attractions on the Canadian side include:

• The floral clock
• A hydroelectric power plant
• Panoramic views of Bridal Veils Falls, American Falls and Horseshoe Falls
• City of Niagara Cruises boat trip to Horseshoe Falls
• Journey Behind the Falls , where you can explore the tunnels behind the Falls and stand at the foot of the Falls
• Skylon Tower , which you can ascend for a bird’s eye view

While the main attractions on the American side of Niagara Falls are:

• Terrapin Point viewpoint, which is close to Horseshoe Falls
• Close up views of Bridal Veils Falls and American Falls
• Cave of the Winds wooden walkway below the falls
• Maid of the Mist boat trip to Horseshoe Falls
• Hiking and biking paths on Goat Island
• Niagara Falls Observation Tower

Niagara Falls State Park (the American side) allows you to get closer to Bridal Veil Falls and American Falls, but your view is obscured as you either look down at the falls, or from the side. The islands are unique to the American side and there are several hikes that allow you to explore Niagara Gorge further up-river. Both sides offer boat trips, observation towers and adventure activities. The Canadian side is more commercial with restaurants, shops, casinos, games centres and other attractions in the area too. It has more activities on offer and better panoramic views than the American side, making it most tourists’ preferred side.

What is Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is actually a group of three waterfalls at the southern end of Niagara Gorge:

Horseshoe Falls is the famous waterfall that you see in pictures of Niagara Falls. Horseshoe Falls lies on the border between Canada and USA and channels approximately 90% of the Niagara River. It is sometimes called Canadian Falls and sits at 51 metres (167 ft) tall and an impressive 820 metres (2,700 ft) wide.

American Falls is the second-largest of the three waterfalls. It lies on the American side of Niagara Falls and spans 290 metres wide (950 ft) and 34 metres (110 ft) tall.

Bridal Veil Falls also lies on the American side of Niagara Falls. Luna Island separates it from the American Falls while Goat Island separates it from Horseshoe Falls.

Where is Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is just over an hour’s drive from Toronto and sits in the Niagara Gorge . The gorge is a 6.8 mile (11km) canyon, through which the Niagara River flows. Niagara Falls marks the international border between Canada and USA and begins at the base of Horseshoe Falls, ending downriver at the edge of the geological formation known as the Niagara Escarpment. The falls actually originated here about 12,500 years ago but have receded upstream toward Lake Erie due to erosion of the riverbed which has created Niagara Gorge.

Niagara Falls Attractions Map

How to get to niagara falls from toronto.

Niagara Falls is most commonly accessed from Toronto or New York. If you’re visiting the Canadian side, there are 4 main options to get to Niagara Falls from Toronto:

1. While public transport is the cheapest of these options, it’s also the least convenient. Getting the train (which runs on a seasonal schedule) is slower than driving and the bus stops are located outside the main Niagara Falls area, so you’ll have to do a lot of walking. To get the train you’ll need to take the GO Train or the ViaRail Train from the upper-level tracks of Union Station. From the Niagara Falls station it’s over 2 miles (3.5km) to the falls – a 45 minute walk. The easiest way to get to Niagara Falls by bus is to take the Megabus . This is a fast and cheap option, however the bus stop is outside the train station, so you’ll have the same long walk to do.

2. Hiring a car is more expensive, but relatively easy and can be done from Toronto Airport or Downtown. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, and can allow you to spend longer at Niagara. You could even stay overnight or cross the Rainbow Bridge and explore Niagara Falls from the American side too.

3. If you don’t hire a car we’d recommend booking onto a tour . There are plenty of tour companies offering day trips to Niagara Falls from Toronto with a range of tours so you can choose the one that best fits your interests and budget. Tours can also include other stops in the surrounding area, like Niagara-on-the-Lake and local wineries, and provide really informative commentary too.

What is there to do on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls?

There is so much to do on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls it can be tricky to squeeze everything into one day. We’ve listed all the main attractions on Niagara Fall’s Canadian side, from North to South, as you enter the park from Toronto, to the showstopping Horseshoe Falls.

1) The Floral Clock

Niagara Falls lies across Lake Ontario from Toronto, but the drive requires circumnavigating the shoreline past Hamilton. On the lake’s shore you’ll find the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake , which is worth a visit itself. From here, you can follow the Niagara River south towards the gorge. The first attraction as you enter the Niagara Parks is a 12 metre (40 ft) wide clock. Featuring a face of colourful flowers , this floral clock marks the entrance to Niagara Falls. The design changes annually but the letters often spell out NIAGARA PARKS as the twelve points on the clock face. Thousands of carpet bedding plants and are changed twice each year to maintain the intricate design and the mechanism is powered by Ontario Power Generation.

2) Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant

The Robert Moses Niagara Hydroelectric Power Station sits on the banks of Niagara River. It works by diverting the water from the Niagara River, which spins turbines that power generators in the power plant, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. It is the largest power generator in New York State , with a capacity of 2.4 million kilowatts.

3) Niagara Whirlpools

As you follow the Niagara Parkway up the river the falls eventually come into view. There are a lot of attractions on this stretch, including a Butterfly Conservatory and Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens . The WildPlay Niagara Falls Whirlpool Adventure Course can also be found here, which features an exciting high ropes course over the world-famous and violently turbulent Niagara whirlpools.

Around the next riverbend, you’ll find Niagara Helicopter Tours . Offering panoramic bird’s-eye views of Niagara Falls and Gorge, flying aboard one of the world’s quietest helicopters is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You have the flexibility to fly when the weather is best, giving you great photo opportunities and you’ll receive informative audio commentary from your pilot too.

The train station is situated along this stretch of the river and will be your arrival spot if you choose to brave the public transport route from Toronto. We’d recommend stopping off at a few activities as you navigate along Niagara Parkway to really make the most of your visit.

4) Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge is an official international border crossing between Canada and USA . You can cross by car or foot for tourism purposes, allowing you to explore the American side of Niagara too. If you only have a day to explore we wouldn’t recommend you cross the bridge as, although the crossing only takes 5 minutes, getting through customs can take much longer.

By Rainbow Bridge you’ll find the Niagara SkyWheel . As Canada’s largest observation wheel, the SkyWheel stands 23 metres (175 ft) tall and gives riders spectacular aerial views from enclosed gondolas with audio commentary.

Nearby you’ll find the Zipline to The Falls , a thrilling zipline experience which allows you to soar 67 metres (220 ft) high above the Niagara River Gorge. Adrenaline junkies can glide 670 metres (2200 ft) past the American Falls to the base of the thundering Horseshoe Falls, enjoying unique birds-eye views of Niagara Falls.

5) Niagara City Cruises Boat Tour

Previously known as the Maid of the Mist tour, Niagara City Cruises boats take you up close with the power of the falls. You’ll cruise past American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls before being enveloped by a plume of mist at the foot of Horseshoe Falls . Waterproof plastic ponchos are provided as you’ll get so close you’ll definitely get wet, although there is an indoor section for anyone adverse to water.

6) Horseshoe Falls

Approximately 3,160 tons of water flows over Niagara Falls every second – 75,750 gallons over the American and Bridal Veil Falls and 681,750 gallons over Horseshoe Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the pièce de résistance of Niagara Falls. You can feel the power of the waterfall at the brink of the cascade by the Table Rock Welcome Centre .

7) Journey Behind the Falls

The Table Rock Welcome Centre houses the entrance to Journey Behind the Falls . In this experience you descend 38 metres (125 ft) in a lift to the 130 year old tunnels below, which extend 46 metres (151 ft) behind the waterfall. You can walk through the bedrock and read the history of the tunnels on informative boards along the walls. Look out for the viewing portals, which are cut straight through the rock and offer a once-in-a-lifetime view of the back of Horseshoe Falls.

Descend further to the stand on the Lower Observation Deck and look up at the falls from below – an impressive vantage point and great photo opportunity! You’ll be able to feel the vibrations of the water thundering down a 13 storey drop and may get a little wet, but fetching yellow ponchos are provided on entry.

8) Skylon Tower

From the bottom to the top, it’s worth marching up to the Skylon Tower , which offers sweeping 360° views of Niagara Falls city. On a clear day, visibility is up to 80 miles so you can see Toronto, as well as across to the USA. The tower also features an arcade and a revolving restaurant with 2 levels of fine dining, both 236 metres (775 ft) above the falls.

9) Niagara Falls Night-time Light Show

Perhaps the most impressive way to experience the falls, the night-time light show gives you the opportunity to experience Niagara falls in a way few other tourists do. At night the falls are lit up in a dazzling illumination display , with frequent firework displays . On a Niagara Falls Night Tour , you get the opportunity to cruise the river, dine in the iconic Table Rock Restaurant and visit the Illumination Tower, where you can even control the lights that appear on the falls!

There’s a lot to explore in the surrounding area of Niagara, which you can discover in our article: There’s more to Niagara than the Falls . And if you need transport back to Toronto Airport, you can book a Toronto Airport Private Transfer from Niagara Falls .

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Lucy and Dan are travel writers, photographers, content creators, and founders of Thoroughly Travel. They're on a mission to help others travel for less money, with less environmental impact. You'll find them whale watching, wildlife spotting, road-tripping and seeking authentic experiences around the world. After quitting their 9-5s to backpack Mexico and Central America, they travelled New Zealand for a year on working holiday visas. They're currently Digital Nomad-ing their way around Europe.

Niagara Falls   Travel Guide

15 Best Things To Do in Niagara Falls

The waterfalls are the main attraction here, and there's a range of ways to see them: from observation decks at the brink on both sides; from their foot on the legendary Maid of the Mist boat tours; from behind in caves accessible by elevator; or

• All Things To Do

Maid of the Mist Maid of the Mist

The main reason to visit Niagara Falls is to see the falls, and one of the most memorable ways to do just that is to sport a poncho and hop on a Maid of the Mist boat. These boats have been shuttling visitors to and from the base of the falls since the 1840s, but today’s fleet is sustainably all-electric. Be prepared to get wet: The Maid of the Mist practically dunks you under the falls, but rain gear is provided, and many say that this is one of the best ways to experience the splendor of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and the Horseshoe Falls. In fact, it's one of the region's best guided tours .

Recent visitors said you can't leave Niagara Falls without taking a ride on the Maid of the Mist.  Though you are provided with a plastic poncho, you should plan to wear waterproof shoes and gear, according to travelers.

Niagara Falls State Park Niagara Falls State Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Just steps from the park is Old Falls Street, a pedestrian-only cobblestone avenue that comes alive in summertime with food trucks, vendors, street performers and events. Take a stroll to discover backyard board games, public art and prime people-watching. – Devon Dams-O'Connor

New York’s oldest state park is the American side’s front row seat to the falls.

White Water Walk White Water Walk

If you're looking to view the falls from a more natural setting than the Maid of the Mist or the Journey Behind the Falls , spend an hour or two stretching your legs on the White Water Walk. After taking an elevator 230 feet to the base of the gorge, you'll be able to walk along a quarter-mile boardwalk that overlooks the Great Gorge Rapids from the Canadian side of the Niagara River. Along the walk are several observation areas where you can get a great view of the rapids. According to the park, these viewing platforms are where you can capture the best photos within the park.

Some recent visitors were disappointed with the short boardwalk, but others loved being able to see the force of the rapids up close and praised the incredible views. Several reviewers also suggested stopping to read the informational plaques that are placed along the boardwalk, as they provide interesting information about the daredevils who have attempted to cross the river.

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Journey Behind the Falls Journey Behind the Falls

On the Journey Behind the Falls, you'll be able to stand directly behind the roaring sheet of water and get a literal behind-the-scenes peek at this magnificent natural attraction. The tour begins with an elevator ride to an observation deck where you can take in the view of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls and the Niagara River. From there, follow the 130-year-old caverns and enjoy the roaring curtain of the falls from a different perspective. However, be prepared for crowds – Journey Behind the Falls is one of the most popular ways to see the falls, so you may find that the tunnels are rather cramped.

Recent visitors highly recommended the Journey Behind the Falls, even if you've already gone on a Maid of the Mist tour, as this attraction offers yet another interesting perspective of the falls. To avoid crowds and enjoy the view in peace, reviewers suggest getting to the attraction when it opens at 8 or 9 a.m., depending on the month. Ponchos are provided, but travelers report leaving a little damp anyway.

Cave of the Winds Cave of the Winds

Many recent visitors called the Cave of the Winds a "must-do" when in Niagara Falls.

After taking an elevator 175 feet down into the Niagara Gorge, you'll be able to roam a series of wooden walkways that put you within feet of the Bridal Veil Falls. It's called the "Hurricane Deck," thanks to the tropical storm-like conditions. Even with the souvenir poncho, you'll likely get wet. You'll also have access to The World Changed Here Pavilion, an indoor multimedia exhibit area that educates visitors on how Nikola Tesla used the power of the falls for electric currents and what the falls looked like before they became the tourist attraction they are today.

Queen Victoria Park Queen Victoria Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: One of the best times to visit the park is in the springtime when temperatures warm, crowds are minimal, and the park is exploding with color thanks to several species of flowering trees and more than 500,000 blooming daffodils. – Devon Dams-O'Connor

Laced with lush gardens and winding paths, Queen Victoria Park is the front-row seat to the falls. It’s situated directly across the gorge from the cascades and offers some of the best vantage points to see the American and Canadian Horseshoe falls, and the more than 100 fireworks displays that illuminate the skies above the brink each year.

Old Fort Niagara Old Fort Niagara

If you enjoy history, make sure to save time for a visit to Old Fort Niagara. Located on the U.S. side of the falls, this 17th-century fort has changed hands between French, British and American troops. This site has seen action during numerous wars, including the American Revolution and the French and Indian War, making it the longest operational fort in North America. Today, the fort occupies one of the most scenic areas in western New York, overlooking both Lake Ontario and the Niagara River. Inside, you can explore underground gunpowder rooms, old army barracks and ancient cannons. If you're looking for a more in-depth history, make sure to stop by the visitor center, which features a short introductory film, a War of 1812 flag and original artifacts.

Recent visitors raved about the well-preserved buildings and clean grounds, and were especially impressed with the re-enactors, who perform musket and artillery firing demonstrations during the summer months. Many also said they initially only planned to spend an hour exploring the grounds, but ended up staying half the day thanks to all the interesting demonstrations and exhibits.

Niagara Glen Nature Centre Niagara Glen Nature Centre free

If you need a break from the crowds near the falls, visitors recommend you enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre. Situated off the Niagara Parkway on the Canadian side of the falls, this nature preserve overlooks the Niagara River and its natural whirlpool, offering more than 2 miles of trails through preserved Carolinian Forest.

Recent visitors enjoyed hiking through the preserve, especially in the fall, when the trees begin changing color. Some suggest hiking boots rather than sneakers for sections of rougher trail. Reviewers were also impressed with the on-site nature center and its knowledgeable staff. From the center, visitors can also join daily guided hikes, which are available from May through August.

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Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory

To escape the thunderous falls and tourist crowds, take an afternoon and lose yourself in the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. If you like nature, the gardens are a must-see. This 99-acre space is home to dozens of meticulously maintained gardens – cared for by students, staff, alumni and groundskeepers at the on-site horticulture school – featuring thousands of species of plants. During the summer, guided horse-and-carriage tours allow you to explore the gardens in style. The gardens are also home to the Butterfly Conservatory, where several thousand butterflies flit and flutter among brightly colored flowers.

Recent visitors said a visit to the gardens and the butterfly conservatory provided a nice respite from the kitschy atmosphere around the falls. Reviewers cautioned that the butterfly conservatory can get crowded later in the day, but noted that the gardens were quiet. A few reviewers felt the ticket price for the butterfly conservatory was too expensive. 

Clifton Hill Clifton Hill

U.S. News Insider Tip: At night, the top of the SkyWheel on Clifton Hill is one of the best spots to catch a glimpse of Niagara Falls illuminated by multicolored lights and fireworks displays over the falls nightly from May through October. – Devon Dams-O'Connor

Clifton Hill is a tourist district on the Canadian side of the falls filled with family-friendly attractions and nightlife.

Niagara Gorge Trails Niagara Gorge Trails free

Hike down into the gorge below the falls to experience miles of boulder-strewn trails and quiet picnic spots along the churning Niagara River. Several trailheads along the rim of the gorge descend via wooden or stone stairs into the base of the ravine, where explorers can choose from a variety of trail lengths and difficulties.

The Devil’s Hole trail starts at a staircase in Devil’s Hole State Park and offers a moderate, 3-mile out-and-back hike past the rapids and the spooky Cave of the Evil Spirit. Or, hikers can connect to the Whirlpool Rapids trail, a 3.4-mile round-trip trek from the stairs at Whirlpool State Park that rewards more experienced hikers with challenging terrain near the famed Niagara Whirlpool. The Niagara Gorge Trailhead Center offers access points to even more trails of varying difficulties.

Whirlpool Aero Car Whirlpool Aero Car

Since 1916, the Whirlpool Aero Car has sent passengers 3,500 feet across the Niagara Gorge to marvel at the river below. Along the way, riders are treated to bird’s-eye views of the turquoise waters swirling into the Niagara Whirlpool, whitecapped Class VI rapids and jetboats ripping down the river. Although the car crosses the international border four times because of the way the gorge meanders, the ride starts and ends on the Canadian side, and thus, no passport is required to ride. It's one of the best tours in Niagara Falls .

The historic cable car – which is suspended from six sturdy cables – has undergone several upgrades since its 1916 debut, including most recently in 2023, when it was removed from its tracks and sent to Quebec for refurbishment. Today, it's equipped with brand-new mechanical parts, non-slip floor, roof and fresh paint.

Bird Kingdom Bird Kingdom

Inside the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary, pathways wind through a multilevel rainforest teeming with tropical birds in every color of the rainbow.

Interact directly with feathered residents at the attraction's Base Camp, where you'll meet exotic animals and friendly parrots (entry is included in admission; holding a parrot costs CA$10 or about $7). There's also Lorikeet Landing, where colorful little lorikeets may land on visitors’ arms when offered a sip of nectar (entry included in admission; nectar costs CA$5 or about $4). Meanwhile, the Night Jungle, set to resemble ancient ruins, is the place to catch a glimpse of nocturnal animals like bats, owls and amphibians. The exhibit ecosystem is also home to lush plants, flowers and trees from around the world, which offer nesting spots for the birds and beautiful surroundings to wander.

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Skylon Tower Skylon Tower

Once you've seen the falls from below and behind, consider seeing them from above at the Skylon Tower. Dominating the Ontario skyline, this 775-foot high tower offers particularly breathtaking views of the Horseshoe Falls. You can enjoy the view from either the indoor or the outdoor observation deck and – if you don't mind shelling out a small fortune – you can also revel in the landscape from the tower's revolving restaurant. To reach the top of the tower, you'll board a glass-enclosed elevator that takes just 52 seconds to ascend.

Many recent visitors recommend timing your stop at the tower at night to catch a bird's-eye glimpse when the falls are illuminated. A few also said it was worth it to buy the ticket package that allows for both a day entry and a night entry to the tower. If you're hoping to eat at the tower, either at the buffet or in the formal dining room, consider going early (between 4:30 and 5 p.m.) to take advantage of "early bird" pricing.

Inniskillin Wines Inniskillin Wines free

Aside from the falls themselves, the Niagara Falls region is known for one other thing: wine. If you have the time, take a drive north along Ontario's scenic Niagara Parkway to Inniskillin Wines and vineyards throughout in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This winery is Canada’s first estate winery and known for its ice wine, which is made from grapes that are left to freeze on the vine over the winter. Once temperatures drop to minus 8 degrees Celsius (about 18 degrees Fahrenheit), the grapes are then collected and allowed to thaw, a process that helps intensify their flavor.

Recent visitors recommended making a stop here, even if you're not interested in tasting the region's famous ice wine. Many noted welcoming and knowledgeable tour and tasting guides, along with tasty food options.

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How to Plan a Trip to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a famous destination in Canada, located on the border between Canada and the US. Millions of people from all over the world flock to the city every year, eager to witness the power of the famous waterfalls and explore the touristy city.

We can help you with how to plan a Niagara Falls vacation . Our comprehensive guide is a great start for planning a trip to Niagara Falls Canada and making the most of your time. 

Our guide will cover everything you need to know to plan a trip to Niagara Falls, including when to visit, where to stay, and which activities you should do while in Niagara Falls. Sightseeing, taking a boat ride on Hornblower Niagara City Cruises or the immersive experience of Journey Behind the Falls are all things you might want to do while you're there. It’s a very popular desitination, so It's important to plan ahead to make the most of your vacation.

With a little bit of planning, you'll be able to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls and create memories that will last a lifetime.

What is Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. Straddling the border between the United States and Canada, this magnificent series of three waterfalls is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience a truly awe-inspiring sight.

The Falls are made up of three cascades: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. The Horseshoe Falls (aka Canadian Falls) is the largest of the three and also the most powerful waterfall in the whole of North America. At over 164 feet tall, the Horseshoe Falls provide an incredible sight of water crashing thunderously over the cliff edge. Visitors to Niagara Falls can experience the power of the Falls up close with the many boat tours available, including Niagara City Cruises.

Niagara Falls is also home to a variety of activities and attractions, from the fun-filled Clifton Hill amusement park to world-famous casinos. With countless restaurants and hotels nearby, visitors to Niagara Falls can enjoy the city and all its beauty for days on end. Whether you're looking for an amazing natural wonder or exciting nightlife, here are some tips for visiting Niagara Falls.

Travel tip: get out on the water

One of the most impressive views of the falls is from the water below. Book a boat tour to see — and feel — the power of this famous waterfall.

How Do I Get To Niagara Falls?

Whether you're coming from Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa or any other Canadian city, getting to Niagara Falls from Canada is easy, convenient and affordable. The falls are located in Ontario, Canada, and there are several ways to get there depending on your location and preferred mode of transportation.

Driving to Niagara Falls is a popular way to get there from within Canada. It is a relatively short drive from Toronto, taking about two hours. The most direct route from Toronto to Niagara Falls is the Queen Elizabeth Way, an Ontario highway that runs along the shore of Lake Ontario. If you're coming from Montreal, take Highway 401 to Highway 3, then follow it all the way to Niagara Falls. But note that the drive from Montreal to Niagara Falls will take about seven hours one way.

Taking the bus is another popular and affordable way to get to Niagara Falls from within Canada. Greyhound and Megabus both offer regular service to Niagara Falls from many Canadian cities, including Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. The trip takes roughly two to seven hours, depending on your departure point.

VIA Rail offers daily train service to Niagara Falls from Toronto and Ottawa. The trip takes approximately two to five hours, depending on your departure point. The train is a great way to get to Niagara Falls if you're looking for a more comfortable and scenic journey. The train station is located just a short walk from the falls.

Many of our Toronto Canadian Train Vacations include Niagara Falls excursions. The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations can help you book a tour.

Flying to Niagara Falls is also an option. Many Canadian cities have direct flights to Niagara Falls International Airport in New York. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to the falls on the Canadian side (bring your passport!). The nearest major airport in Canada is Toronto Pearson International Airport.

No matter how you choose to travel, it's important to plan ahead, and the best way to plan a trip to Niagara Falls is to book your transportation in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Once you arrive at Niagara Falls, you can easily explore the area on foot, bike, or with hop-on hop-off bus tours.

Keep reading or discover more travel inspiration in our brochure. This guide showcases our world-famous train journeys, with ideas for personalizing your Canadian vacation.

When To Visit Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a popular tourist destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you're looking to experience. The details below will help you how to plan a Niagara Falls vacation:

Summer (June to August):

This is the peak tourist season and the best time to visit if you want to enjoy warm weather and a variety of outdoor activities. The falls are at their fullest during this time and you can take boat tours to the base of the falls or enjoy the illumination of the falls at night.

Spring (April to May) and Fall (September to October):

These seasons offer milder weather and smaller crowds, making it a great time to visit if you want to avoid the peak season rush. The falls are still impressive during this time and you can enjoy the colourful foliage of spring and fall in the many parks in the area, as well as at the wineries.

Winter (December to March):

Niagara Falls is also a popular winter destination. If the temperatures drop enough, the falls freeze and the whole area is transformed into a winter wonderland. A Winter Festival of Lights tour is a magical experience.

Tourists can’t climb the frozen falls. It is a special thing that only media seeking adventurists do and they need permission.

Regardless of when you choose to visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, as temperatures can vary greatly depending on the season.

Where To Stay In Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, Canada, offers plenty of wonderful places to stay, whether you're looking for luxury or budget-friendly, a romantic getaway or a family vacation. You should also consider the location of the accommodation, as the closer to Niagara Falls , the more convenient it will be for you to visit the main attraction.

Here are some popular options for where to stay in Niagara Falls:

Hotels : Niagara Falls offers a wide range of hotels, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. Some popular hotel options include the Sheraton on the Falls, the Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls-Fallsview, and the Niagara Falls Marriott on the Falls. These hotels offer comfortable accommodations and are located close to the falls and other popular attractions.

Bed and Breakfasts : For a more intimate and personalized experience, consider staying at one of the many bed and breakfasts in the area. These accommodations offer a comfortable and homey atmosphere and are often located in historic homes or charming cottages. Vacation Rentals: For a more private and self-catering option, consider renting a vacation home or apartment. This option can be a great value if you're traveling with a group or want more space and privacy.

Campgrounds : If you're an outdoor enthusiast, consider camping at one of the many campgrounds in the Niagara region. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities and are a great way to experience natural beauty.

And also, consider the location of the accommodation, as the closer to the falls, the more convenient it will be for you to visit the main attraction.

Niagara Falls Tours

Organized Niagara Falls tours are the best way to see all the aspects of the falls without having to organize everything yourself and without having a fear of missing out on anything. Some popular options include:

Hornblower Niagara Cruises:

The iconic Niagara Falls experience is a boat tour that takes you up close. It’s the thrill of a lifetime to hear the waves as they crash over the edge and to feel the mist. Tour operators provide rain ponchos to protect you as much as possible from the spray.

Niagara Helicopter Tour:

For a bird's-eye view of the falls, consider a helicopter tour. These tours offer panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding area and are a great way to experience the falls from a different perspective.

Journey Behind the Falls:

This tour takes visitors behind the Horseshoe Falls, through a series of tunnels and observation decks, to experience the falls from a unique vantage point.

Niagara Falls Illumination Tour:

For a unique and magical experience, consider a nighttime tour of Niagara Falls which are illuminated with colourful lights after dark.

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour:

This is one of the most well-known tours, but it only runs on the American side of the falls.

Niagara on the Lake and Wine Tours:

Niagara region is also famous for its wineries and vineyards. Sign up for a tour to visit several wineries and learn about and taste the different wines from the region.

There are many other guided tours of Niagara Falls that take in all the breathtaking must-see attractions and scenery. Consider the time of the day you want to take the tour, as the view of the falls can be different depending on the lighting, either in the day or at night. 

6 Best Ways To Experience The Falls

This awe-inspiring sight is a must-see for any traveler, and Canada offers some of the best ways to experience the falls. From boat tours to helicopter rides, from walking behind the falls to taking a scenic drive, these are the top things to do in Niagara Falls to discover the beauty of the falls.

1. Take a boat tour:

One of the most popular ways to experience the falls is by taking a boat tour. Niagara City Cruises offers tours that take you right up to the base of the Horseshoe Falls, providing a truly breathtaking view of the falls.

2. Go on a helicopter tour:

For an even more unique perspective, take a helicopter tour of the falls. These tours offer an incredible view of the falls and the surrounding area, allowing you to take in the full scope of the falls.

3. Walk behind the falls:

Another popular way to experience the falls is by walking behind them. The Journey Behind the Falls takes you behind the Horseshoe Falls, providing a one-of-a-kind view of the falls from behind. Multiple cave entrances offer a view where you can see Niagara Falls plummeting down right before your eyes. The observation deck at the end of the tunnel is the best part of the Journey Behind the Falls. The mist here is even fiercer than the mist of the Niagara City Cruises. 

4. Explore the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens:

The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens offer a beautiful and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the falls. The gardens feature a wide variety of plants and flowers, as well as beautiful walking paths that offer great views of the falls.

5. Visit the Niagara's Fury:

Niagara's Fury is an interactive experience that simulates the formation of the falls. Visitors will feel the power of the falls as they watch a 4D film and stand on a platform that simulates the movement of water.

6. Enjoy a candlelight dinner at the Skylon Tower:

Get a bird’s-eye view of Niagara Falls from the Skylon Tower. The Tower offers an incredible view of the falls, particularly at night when the falls are illuminated. Enjoy a romantic candlelight dinner while taking in the view, making for a truly special and memorable experience. The falls are illuminated at night which gives the falls a different and beautiful view.

These are some of the best ways to experience the falls from Canada, each providing a unique and unforgettable perspective of this natural wonder.

Where To Eat In Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is home to a wide variety of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. While you’re in the area, you’ll want to make sure to sample some of the amazing cuisines. Here are some of the best places to eat in Niagara Falls:

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar:

Located in the Fallsview Casino Resort, The Keg offers a prime dining experience with a great view of Niagara Falls. The menu features prime rib, fresh seafood, and delicious steaks.

Niagara Fallsview Buffet:

For a true taste of Niagara Falls, head to the Niagara Fallsview Buffet. This restaurant offers up a buffet of all-you-can-eat Canadian cuisine, including local favorites like poutine and tourtiere.

Table Rock House Restaurant:

Table Rock House is a great choice for breakfast or lunch. The menu features a variety of classic dishes like eggs Benedict and pancakes, as well as a selection of sandwiches and salads.

This popular American chain restaurant is a great spot for breakfast. Enjoy classic dishes like French toast and omelets, and don’t forget to try their famous pancakes.

The Watermark Restaurant:

The Watermark Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a view of the falls. The menu features contemporary Canadian cuisine and a wide variety of wines.

The Rainbow Room by Massimo Capra:

The Rainbow Room by Massimo Capra is a revolving restaurant that offers a panoramic view of the falls and the surrounding area. The menu features modern Italian cuisine.

The Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort:

The Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort offers a variety of dining options, including the Grand Buffet, which offers a wide variety of dishes from around the world, and the Fallsview Restaurant, which serves contemporary Canadian cuisine.

The Mist Pool Bar & Grill:

The Mist Pool Bar & Grill is a casual outdoor dining option that offers a variety of casual fares such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. It's the perfect spot for lunch or a light dinner while enjoying the view of the falls.

To plan a trip to Niagara Falls, book a tour with Canadian Train Vacations right now.

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Frequently asked questions, how many days do you need to visit niagara falls.

Generally, two to three days is a good amount of time to visit Niagara Falls and see the main attractions.

Which is better Niagara Falls NY or Canada?

That depends on what you are looking for. If you are looking for the best views of Niagara Falls, then Canada is probably the better option. However, if you are looking for a more touristy experience, then Niagara Falls, NY may be the better choice.

What is the best month to visit Niagara Falls?

The best month to visit Niagara Falls in June. June offers warmer temperatures and longer days making it an ideal time to visit the falls.

Do I need to buy Niagara Falls tickets in advance?

Yes, it is recommended to buy Niagara Falls tickets in advance to guarantee admission and avoid long wait times.

Can you see both sides of Niagara Falls in one day?

Yes, it is possible to see both sides of Niagara Falls in one day. Boat tours that offer views of both the American and Canadian sides of the Falls are available.

What is the best way to experience Niagara Falls?

The best way to experience Niagara Falls is to take in the breathtaking views from the observation decks. You can also take a boat tour with Hornblower Cruises by Niagara City Cruises for a closer look at the falls or take a helicopter tour or watch from the Skylon Tower.

Is Niagara Falls worth the drive?

Yes, Niagara Falls is worth driving to. It is a beautiful place that is well worth seeing in person.

Can you walk to Niagara Falls at night?

No, Niagara Falls is closed to visitors after dark.

About the author: Carolyn Camilleri is a Contributing Writer with Fresh tracks Canada. A magazine writer and editor since 1996, she loves the discovery that comes from travel. Her work has appeared in several Canadian travel publications, including Where Victoria, Harbour...   Read more

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18 Practical Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a popular vacation destination for honeymooners, adventure-seekers, and even families.  Some people may think of it as a tourist trap, but to me, it’s one of those places that everyone should see.  

I had a fabulous time during my visit to Niagara Falls and would go again in a heartbeat. Based on my experience, I wanted to share a few tips for visiting Niagara Falls to help you plan your trip, save money, and make sure you have an amazing time.

Note: This post contains affiliate links.  Please see disclosure for more information.

#1 See the Falls from Both Sides

#2 be prepared for the border crossing, #3 don’t just plan a day trip to niagara falls, #4 stay in a hotel with a view of niagara falls, #5 do a boat ride, #6 choose cave of the winds over journey behind the falls, #7 see the falls from above, #8 bring the kids, #9 do an excursion to niagara on the lake, #10 prepare to get wet, #11 visit during the summer if you can, #12 avoid phone roaming charges, #13 ask to have the niagara tourism tax removed, #14 pay in canadian dollars in canada, #15 try birdwatching by niagara falls, #16 take advantage of the free things to do in niagara falls, #17 consider buying a niagara falls attraction pass, #18 if you are feeling brave, try the zip line or whirlpool jet boat, how to get to niagara falls, plan your niagara falls trip, expert tips for your trip to niagara falls, tips for visiting niagara falls.

These important tidbits of information can make a big difference! My Niagara Falls travel advice will help you make the most of your time and money during your visit.  You never know when (or if) you will get a second chance to visit such an iconic place.

Any Niagara Falls travel guide you consult says that the view of Niagara Falls is better from the Canadian side.  While I think that may be true, the view from the American side is impressive as well.  Plus, you need to go to the American side of the Falls to do the Cave of the Winds , also a must. 

If you plan on taking your rental car across the border, please make sure to check with your car rental company first.  If you don’t, it may cause issues with your insurance.  Some rental car companies may charge fees.

When you cross the border, whether in a vehicle or on foot, you will need to have proper documentation.  This means you will need to carry your passport.  Depending on your citizenship you may also need a visa.  If you are not sure, find out if you need a visa to enter Canada here or if you need a visa to enter the US here .

Depending on where you cross the border, you may also need money for tolls or fees.  To walk across the Rainbow Bridge from Canada to the US, it costs $1.00 (either USD or CAD) per person in cash.  It’s a good idea to keep some small bills as many border crossings require cash and will not provide change.

While some might say you can see Niagara Falls in one day, I think you need to stay longer to get the full experience.  If you do a one day trip to Niagara Falls, you will not have time to see all the attractions.  Additionally, you need time to the Falls from different viewpoints, and you will also want to stay for the fireworks which don’t finish until late.  (Keep reading for more details on all the Niagara Falls attractions and the fireworks).

Some people want to do a day trip to Niagara Falls from New York City, and I am guessing these people don’t realize how far it is between NYC and Niagara Falls (over 400 miles!).  It’s too far to drive for a day trip, so you would have to fly.

Unless you can get a flight into the Niagara Falls Airport, traveling back and forth will take up most of your day.  It’s probably easiest to book an organized tour.  You can either do this tour which includes flights or this overnight bus tour to Niagara Falls from NYC.  Note that the bus tour only goes to the American side of the Falls.

You could do a day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto or Buffalo if you rent a car, but you would need to prioritize which attractions you will visit.  It might be best to just book a Niagara Falls tour from Toronto – click here to check details, prices, and availability – or from Buffalo – click here to check prices and availability .

When choosing a Niagara Falls hotel, location is key!  It is amazing to be able to sit in your hotel room and look at Niagara Falls.  I loved watching the Falls change colors when they were illuminated at night. There was something almost mesmerizing about it and worth splurging a bit.

The area has many hotels that have rooms that offer views of the Falls.  We stayed in a Falls View room at the Marriott.  Another popular option is the Sheraton which also has Falls View rooms.

Click here to check current prices and availability for the Marriott Niagara Falls .  Read Tripadvisor reviews for the Marriott Fallsview hotel here.

Click here to check current prices and availability for the Sheraton Niagara Falls . Read Tripadvisor reviews for the Sheraton on the Falls here.

For more information about hotels, please check out my post about the best places to stay in Niagara Falls .

The Maid of the Mist is iconic, but you could also do the Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower.  

It doesn’t matter which, but you need to go on a Niagara Falls boat tour. We had quite the experience on the Hornblower – you can see what it was like in our video .  Check out my post to help you decide between the Hornblower and the Maid of the Mist and get more tips for your Niagara boat tour.

Both the Cave of the Winds and Journey Behind the Falls are exciting ways to get up close and personal with Niagara Falls.  We went to both attractions and while I enjoyed both, I preferred the Cave of the Winds.

Note that the full Cave of the Winds experience is only available during the summer months, so at other times the Journey Behind the Falls might be your best option.

From the air you get a different perspective of Niagara Falls.  We did the Classic Tour with Niagara Helicopters and it was an experience we will never forget.  

We flew over the Whirlpool Rapids, the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls.  Our pilot circled over the Horseshoe Falls to make sure everyone got an amazing view.

Niagara Falls for kids? It used to be the honeymoon capital of the world, but now it has turned into a popular family-friendly destination.  

Niagara Falls is the main attraction, but I think it is worth it to visit Niagara on the Lake too.  Tours are a great option because most will pick you up at one of the hotels in Niagara Falls for free.  We were on a tight timetable so we did a half day wine tour.  Our tour took us to three wineries and then we had a lovely gourmet dinner. 

It’s a beautiful area and I enjoyed the wine. They make lots of different varietals but ice wine is their specialty.  Ice Wine is a sweet wine that goes well with desserts.  It was interesting learning more about how ice wine is made.  Now, I can understand why it is so expensive!

Check out some of the wine tours available through Viator here .  Most will pick you up at your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about driving.

Although Niagara on the Lake is known for its wineries, there is more to see in the area.  Other Niagara on the Lake attractions include:

• Fort George , which served as the headquarters for the British Army during the War of 1812.
• The Outlet Collection at Niagara , perfect for those looking for some retail therapy.
• Niagara Apothecary Museum – Learn about old medicine and how it has influenced modern practices.

You may even want to consider staying a night.  Most of the Niagara on the Lake hotels are located in the Old Town Historic District.  ( Click here to check out the options on Hotels.com )

You are given a poncho free with your admission to most of the major attractions. Don’t let that fool you! You’re going to get wet. That’s part of the fun though.  The water is cold, but on a warm day, it feels pretty refreshing.

I would recommend that you plan on getting wet and bring a change of clothes and allow time to dry off.  After our boat ride, I was glad we had time to go back to our hotel and freshen up before dinner.  Also considering getting a waterproof cover for your phone (like this one ) and shoes (like these ).

For more suggestions on what to bring, check out my post about what to pack for Niagara Falls .

Summer is the peak travel season, but it’s still the best time to visit Niagara Falls.  Many of the attractions revolve around the water and as I mentioned you will get wet. It’s not fun to be wet when it is cold.  

Some of my favorite attractions are not even open during the off-season.  Still, visiting Niagara Falls in winter is better than not at all.  I would love to see the Falls frozen, but I wouldn’t want to be out in that cold.

You need to check your mobile plan before you cross over to Canada to see what kind of international data coverage you have.  Some carriers (like T-Mobile) have plans that include free international roaming.  If your plan does not, then you need to manually turn off the roaming (in your phone settings) so that you do not get any hefty bills.

Alternatively, you could purchase an eSim which allows you to access the internet without roaming charges.  They are very affordable and can be installed so that they activate upon arrival.  It’s a good option for those traveling from outside the United States or Americans that plan to go to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.  Learn more about our experience using an Airalo eSIM .

On the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, restaurants and hotels will add an extra tax/fee of up to 10% to your bill.  Look for either DMDF (destination marketing and development fee) or TIFF (tourism infrastructure funding fee) on your bill.  You may even want to ask your hotel about it in advance.  It is debatable whether these fees are mandatory or optional.

I have read stories of travelers who have asked to have the Niagara Tourist tax removed and have been successful, while others have been told it is mandatory.  Unfortunately, I didn’t realize you could ask to have the tourist fee removed until I read about it after I had returned, so I am not sure how well this tip will work. Regardless, it doesn’t hurt to ask (nicely), the worse that can happen is that the business says no.

While most businesses on the Canadian side will accept American dollars, you will not get the best exchange rate.  Either get Canadian Dollars from an ATM or use a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees.  Your Wise multi-currency account could come in handy.

Note: Paying in local currency and using a credit card with no foreign transactions fees is a smart idea on any international trip.  

You also might want to check out this guide to tipping in Canada .

You can see the birds right along the Niagara River.  We saw the most birds close to the Cave of the Winds.   Beamer Memorial Conservation Area , Mud Lake Conservation Area, and Wainfleet Wetlands Conservation Area are other popular bird watching spots around Niagara Falls.

There are many free viewpoints where you can see the Falls and other  free Niagara Falls attractions as well !  These ideas are great if you are visiting Niagara Falls on a budget:

• Fireworks over the Falls – Catch fireworks shows over the Horseshoe Falls on select nights only. (Click here to check the schedule)
• Botanical Gardens – 99 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds including a world-famous rose garden
• Dufferin Islands – Park located half a mile south of the Falls with a number of islands connected by footbridges
• Niagara Glen Nature Reserve – Great spots for hiking with views of the Whirlpool Rapids.
• Floral Clock – One of the largest floral clocks in the world, it has a diameter of 40 feet and uses 16,000 plants.
• Queen Victoria Park – A lovely park on its own, but a must-visit for its view of the Falls.

There are plenty of things to do in Niagara Falls and the admission prices will add up fast.  Purchasing a Niagara Falls tourist pass can save you money. These passes are valid for an entire season.  I wish they had one pass that covers everything but the USA and Canadian attractions are on separate passes.  The table below summarizes the options for Niagara Falls passes for attractions .

Note 2: The Floral Showhouse is different from the Botanical Garden.  Admission to the Botanical Garden is free.

Niagara Falls is an ideal destination for adventure seekers.  You can go on the zip line from the Grand View Marketplace into the gorge. You’ll travel down 2,200 feet, before landing at the observation deck at the base of the Horseshoe Falls.  Click here to read the reviews and book Zipline to the Falls.

Another attraction for adventure seekers is the Whirlpool Jet Boat Ride. It’s a 45-minute ride through the class 5 whitewater rapids of the Niagara River.  Click here to read the review of the Whirlpool Jet Boat on Tripadvisor .

Note: These attractions are not included in any attraction pass and must be purchased separately.

We drove from New York City to Niagara Falls.  It’s actually a long 6-7 hour drive, so not ideal for those limited on time, but it makes for a nice stop on your  US east coast road trip .  Amtrak operates trains from NYC to Niagara Falls, but that takes 10 hours. Greyhound buses are also an option but also take 10 hours including a transfer in Buffalo.  It might be best to fly!

If you want to book a flight to Niagara Falls, there are three airports to choose from:

• Niagara Falls International Airport is located on the New York side, just 4 miles from the city’s downtown area.  
• Buffalo Niagara International Airport is located about 25 miles east of Niagara Falls in the city of Cheektowaga, New York.
• Toronto Pearson International Airport is about a 76-mile drive from Niagara Falls.

The Niagara Falls Airport sounds ideal but unfortunately, very few airlines fly into the airport.  Even if you do find a flight option, it is likely to be expensive.

The Toronto Airport is likely to be the cheapest option for flights, but the public transportation options to Niagara Falls are not ideal, so it would be best to rent a car for the one and half hour drive.  There are occasional (~1 per day) direct Greyhound buses that take you to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, but the other options take 3-4 hours.

The Buffalo Airport has slightly better public transportation options to Niagara Falls.  You can get an Uber or Lyft (which will cost around $40), a shared executive van, a shuttle , or rent a car and drive yourself.

A bus from Buffalo will be cheaper, but take a lot longer.  Make sure to have some cash though, they do not give change.  To get from the Buffalo Airport to Niagara Falls, Ontario, first take a bus (either #204 express for $2.50 or #24 for $2) to the Downtown Bus terminal and then transfer to the #40 bus ($2) for Niagara Falls USA.  If you want to go to the Canada side, take a Greyhound bus.

You don’t need a car to visit Niagara Falls since there are plenty of attractions and restaurants within walking distance of the hotels on the Canadian side.  Taxis, ubers, and buses are available for attractions like the Niagara Helicopter or the Whirlpool Aero Car that are further away.

There are also plenty of tour options for excursions to Niagara on the Lake and they do hotel pickups.

Those are my Niagara Falls tips!  I encourage you to plan a trip to Niagara Falls for yourself.  My Niagara Falls vacation is something I will always remember. It’s an iconic destination with stunning natural beauty and plenty of attractions to keep you entertained.

Have you been to Niagara Falls? Do you have any tips on visiting Niagara Falls to share?

Pin for Later

• Make sure you see Niagara Falls from both the Canadian and American sides and be prepared to cross the border.
• It’s a bit of a trek from NYC to Niagara Falls – over 400 miles.  If you’re short on time and want to see Niagara Falls in one day, it might be best to book an organized Niagara Falls tour from NYC.
• Splurge on a hotel room with a view of the Falls and Helicopter ride.
• Consider buying a Niagara Falls Parks Pass.
• Grab our free Niagara Falls packing list here .

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means we will receive a small commission for some purchases made using links in our blog with no additional cost to you.  Please be assured we would not promote any product unless we believe that our readers will also benefit.  The commission does not influence the editorial content of this site.

Two Traveling Texans is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

Last Updated on January 23, 2024

About the Author

Anisa  

Anisa is an experienced international traveler with extra pages in her passport and stamps from 41 different countries across 5 continents (and counting). She was born and raised in Texas. After a 13 year stint in NYC, she moved to England to live with her husband.

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What It's Like To Walk From Canada To The U.S. At Niagara Falls

The U.S/Canada Border crossing at Rainbow Bridge over Niagara Falls is easier than you may think!

• Explore both sides of Niagara Falls for unique experiences and attractions, like wineries and historical monuments. It's worth the visit!
• The Rainbow Bridge is a feat of engineering connecting the U.S. and Canada, offering pedestrians a beautiful cross-border experience.
• Remember your passport, a $1 toll, and a camera for a quick 10-15 minute walk between countries at the Rainbow Bridge. Enjoy the views!

Niagara Falls is famous for the parks on each side of the Falls, filled with family-friendly activities and even some unexpected things that travelers can do . Both the New York and the Canadian sides of Niagara Falls, as well as the surrounding towns on both sides, have so much to do and see. From famed Niagara wineries with the best ice wines to historical monuments to the American Revolutionary War or the War of 1812, there's a lot to cover across these parks and towns!

From The City To the Falls: 14 Essential Stops On The New York City To Niagara Falls Journey

Though some may say that Niagara Falls is average compared to other waterfalls around the world, during my last trip to the Falls, I was eager to take in everything about the area, on both sides of the border! I wanted to see it all because Niagara Falls is, in my opinion, quite mighty. I knew I could cross from the Canadian side to the American side via the Rainbow Bridge that crosses over the Niagara River Gorge, but I didn't have a car to make that trip.

After a little research though, I realized, I could literally just walk into the United States from Canada, and while the few snippets online I read made it sound easy (and yes, it was simple enough), there are some things travelers should know before you try to make this border crossing between the Great White North and the Empire State, yourself.

The Rainbow Bridge: An Overview

Out of tragedy, a new engineering feat helps commuters and visitors cross the border.

The Rainbow Bridge opened on November 1, 1941 , after King George VI and Queen Elizabeth dedicated the site three years prior. A joint project between the governments of New York State and Ontario, the modern bridge measures 950 feet (289.5 meters) in length and 50 feet (15 meters) above the Niagara Gorge's waterline. It is an engineering marvel and was meant to replace the lost " Honeymoon Bridge " (known formally as the Falls Views Bridge), which collapsed the year the royals visited the Falls.

After witnessing the tragic collapse of the bridge after severe icing issues, the commission that built the Rainbow Bridge ensured the bridge's strength; the bridge is reinforced with upwards of 3,500 tons of steel and is supported by solid rock foundations on either side.

• No loss of life was documented during the bridge's building thanks to life-saving nets set up under the bridge during construction.

Why Do People Cross Between The Canadian And American Sides of Niagara?

There are plenty of reasons why travelers and locals alike cross between the two countries. For tourists, crossing the Rainbow Bridge allows them to discover how each side of Niagara Falls is actually different from one another , maximizing their Niagara Falls experience.

Not only are the views and vantage points different on each side of the Falls , both the New York State Parks and the Niagara Parks Commission offer different museums, tours, and on-site restaurants. Similarly, locals cross the Rainbow Bridge, usually by car, to go shopping at country-specific shops (Target gets us all, really), and to attend sports games in the nearby city of Buffalo.

I was surprised to learn when I was on the Canadian side of the border that there are quite a few Buffalo Bills team supporters who live in Niagara Falls, Canada!

How To Cross the Rainbow Bridge As A Pedestrian

The rainbow bridge is the only bridge with a pedestrian crossing.

A popular activity on both sides of the border is to cross the Rainbow Bridge and say you were in two countries at once! The border, officially, is in the middle of the Niagara River Gorge, so halfway across the bridge, flags indicate the inter-country stewardship of the border.

While there are two other bridges which connect these two sides of the Niagara River Gorge from Canada to the U.S., the Rainbow Bridge is the only one that permits pedestrian crossings. As a car-less traveler, this was the best bet for me to get across the border.

Even if you're not planning to cross all the way over the border into the other country, the Rainbow Bridge is a beautiful spot to see some amazing elevated views of the American Bridal Falls, and, further down the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

What Do You Need To Cross?

Walking across the border may seem "less serious" than, let's say, flying to another country, but you are still traveling from one country to another despite how walking makes it feel. With that being said, be sure you have a valid passport that fulfills border entry requirements with you before you start your journey.

While there are other forms of identification accepted on both sides of the border, having a valid passport is the most efficient way of crossing between the two countries.

Also, to the surprise of many of my fellow pedestrians crossing the bridge, there is a small bridge toll for pedestrians! Turnstiles at the entrance of the pedestrian walkway will prompt travelers to deposit either $1 USD or $1 CAN in order to move through the turnstile.

There are bill-breaker machines on the Canadian side that return small coins (including Canadian dollar coins) so that you can pay the toll. Remember, due to currency conversions, paying $1 CAN is technically cheaper (about $.70 USD), if you are extremely budget conscious.

Even if you are not planning to actually cross the border to enter another country from the bridge (meaning you are not intending to "stamp in" the other country), you still need your passport to be readmitted into the country you started from. For instance, if you are on the Canadian side but have no intention of walking across to New York but still plan on going halfway, taking photos, and walking back to the Canadian side, you still need to present your passport. Since, technically, you still left the Canadian side going on the bridge, you left Canada. Do not go past the turnstiles if you do not have your passport, or else it'll turn into a much longer day!

7 Things To Do In Niagara Besides The Falls, From A Local

How long does the crossing take.

Even though the bridge is almost 1,000 feet long, and looks like it takes a while to cross on foot, the actual crossing (barring any picture taking or pausing to take in the view of Niagara Falls and the Niagara River Gorge) only takes about 10 to 15 minutes total. This is a very different story for the cars crossing the bridge — I was walking faster than most cars were moving in line!

When I walked into the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Facility (there are plenty of signs that indicate where pedestrians need to go after you finish the bridge crossing), it only took an additional five minutes to be screened by the U.S. CBP officer.

I also want to note that my CBP officer was quite friendly, a stark contrast to many of the CBP officers I encounter at airports! The officer will buzz you out of the exit — it is a secure area, and they don't want pedestrians looking for the bridge entrance to accidentally cross into the screening area of the facility. It's, evidently, a common mistake!

Once you're through, you'll be right at the start of the Niagara Falls New York State Park!

The pedestrian entrance to the Rainbow Bridge on the Canadian side is a little hidden. From the Rainbow Garden, take the staircase at the northeastern point of the garden (from the entrance of the garden that's to your right). From here you will see the tower that houses the Canadian Border Agency. Walk towards the tower, and signage will indicate which doors to walk through to begin the border crossing.

All in all, the pedestrian crossing on the Rainbow Bridge between New York and Canada is an easy, not-intimidating way to cross the border for a day trip or when, in my case, you pack lightly and don't have a car. Just be prepared with your travel documents in hand, a $1 USD/CAN to spare, and your camera out to enjoy the views!

Official Niagara Falls Visitor Guides