Ultimate Guide to Visiting Niagara Falls
Embarking on a journey to Niagara Falls is like stepping into a real-life postcard. The thunderous applause of water will greet you with its misty embrace. Let’s get you ready for this incredible adventure with some essential tips to ensure you have the time of your life!
About Niagara Falls
CLOSE UP OF HORSESHOE FALLS
The Niagara Falls are world-renown as a Natural Wonder of the World, famed for its sheer volume and raw power. A 12,000-year-old legend of epic proportions which has stood the test of time.
Niagara Falls is situated in a unique location, overlapping the international borders of the US (from the State of New York) and Canada (Ontario province).
The good news is that it is easy to access and equally easy to view. Not only that, it’s kind of a 3-for-1 deal as it comprises a trio of waterfalls.
Horseshoe Falls is the largest of the three (also known as Canadian Falls) and plunges directly on the border between the two countries. The two smaller waterfalls are the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, both cascading on the US side.
What to See & Things to Do
AMERICAN FALLS & BRIDAL VEIL FALLS
Quite simply, don’t overwhelm yourself with the options. As the Falls are the actual attraction, stick to just that. Give yourself 8-10 hours to explore the Falls and the surrounding area.
If you get there bright and early, stop by one of the local eateries for breakfast first!
Viewpoints & Trails
Let’s start with where to plant your feet for those gasp-worthy views. On the Canadian side, climb aboard the Skywheel for a spin above the falls.
If you’re hugging the American side, wiggle over to Prospect Point. It’s a busy spot, so snagging your spot 30-40 minutes early is a smooth move.
Take a relaxing walk from Clifton Hill to Horseshoe Falls – a very do-able 15 minutes (Canadian side).
Stroll through the State Park (the oldest state park in the US). Or visit Goat Island via the footbridge for a dramatic vertical birds-eye view of the Falls (US side).
Boat Tours
Go for a boat cruise aboard either The Hornblower for the Canadian side or The Maid of the Mist for the US side (they run daily and the same route)
Caution: You’ll get wet—that’s half the fun—but protect your gadgets.
Want more ideas? Consider the following activities to not mmiss out on anything:
- Families with kiddos can have a blast at Niagara Falls, too. Giggle together on a trolley ride around the park or get hands-on at the interactive Discovery Center.
- Zipline to the Falls: For the thrill-seekers, zip over the Niagara Gorge for an eagle’s eye view of the falls.
- Niagara Jet Boat: Speed through the Niagara River on a jet boat for an exhilarating ride that’ll make your heart skip a beat.
- The Niagara River Corridor is a renowned birding hotspot—perfect for feathered photo ops!
Dining and Shopping
Finding a place to eat at Niagara Falls is like a mini adventure of its own. Pop into a family-friendly eatery or treat yourself to an elegant dinner with a view of the falls.
After you’ve munched to your heart’s content, it’s time to hunt for treasures to take home. You’ll find shirts that say “I visited the falls and all I got was this wet t-shirt!” to snow globes that shine like tiny worlds.
Best Time to Visit Niagara Falls
ILLUMINATION SHOW, NIAGARA FALLS
Summer, without a doubt, is the best time of year to visit Niagara Falls. Stick around to the end of the day to watch the Illumination Show at sunset.
Want to avoid elbow-to-elbow sightseeing? Visit during the shoulder seasons; April and May or during September and October.
The weather’s still lovely and you won’t have to wiggle through crowds to catch a glimpse of the cascading marvel.
During winter, the falls can transform into a frosty wonderland, but prepare for some attractions to be closed.
What to Bring & What to Wear
Journey Behind the Falls
They may seem obvious, but you’ll be surprised how many folks forget these essential items!
- Bring along a practical day pack
- Wear suitable clothing for a day outdoors, including good shoes for walking and “slippery when wet” scenarios
- Travel documents (passport)
- Camera and backup charger
- Waterproof poncho or raincoat
- Snacks and drinking water
- A light jacket
- Spare clothes (optional)
How to Get to Niagara Falls
CRUISE BOAT AT HORSESHOE FALLS
There are 3 airport options to choose from when it comes to flying into the area.
From the US side:
- Niagara International Airport is the best option and only one hour on a public bus to the Falls.
- Buffalo Niagara International Airport has cheaper flights but it’s recommended to rent a car over taking public transportation.
From the Canadian side:
- Toronto International Airport is about an hour and 15-minutes by car to the Falls (you could also take the train or bus).
Tips for Niagara Falls
AMERICAN FALLS, NEW YORK
Get your hands on a free map to familiarize yourself with Niagara Falls and where everything is in relation to each other — kinda sucks if you spend most of your time lost and confused!
If you have little ones, keep in mind that children under 5 years old can go on boat trips and other attractions for free.
Be sure to bring or purchase a waterproof poncho – no one escapes the spray or potential drenching of the Falls!
Final Thoughts
Niagara Falls is one of the most popular bucket list destinations in the world.
Before you suffer from information overload, be sure to plan ahead to get your trip underway…even just a little!
