Niagara Falls is a city on the Niagara River, in New York State. It’s known for the vast Niagara Falls, which straddle the Canadian border. In Niagara Falls State Park, the Observation Tower, at Prospect Point, juts out over Niagara Gorge for a view of all 3 waterfalls. Trails from the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center lead to other viewpoints. The Aquarium of Niagara is home to Humboldt penguins, seals and sea lions. ― Google
Best Months:
May – October
Warm weather, all attractions open, boat tours running.
Summer (June–August): Peak season, lively, but crowded.
Fall (Sept–Oct): Fewer tourists, colorful foliage, crisp weather.
Winter (Nov–March):
The falls are still viewable (often with magical ice formations), but many attractions are closed.
Closest Airports:
U.S. Side: Niagara Falls International Airport (IAG) or Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) – 30–45 mins to the falls.
Canada Side: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) – ~1.5 hours.
By Train:
Amtrak to Niagara Falls, NY
VIA Rail or GO Transit to Niagara Falls, Ontario
By Car:
From New York City (6–7 hours) or Toronto (1.5 hours). Driving lets you explore nearby wineries and towns.
Crossing the Border:
You can walk or drive between the U.S. and Canada sides via Rainbow Bridge (passport required).
🇨🇦 Canadian Side (More Panoramic Views):
Horseshoe Falls – Largest and most powerful section.
Journey Behind the Falls – Explore tunnels and observation decks behind the waterfall.
Niagara City Cruises (formerly Hornblower) – Iconic boat tour to the base of the falls.
Niagara SkyWheel – Giant Ferris wheel offering stunning aerial views.
Clifton Hill – Fun zone with arcades, wax museums, and restaurants.
Skylon Tower – Observation deck and revolving restaurant.
🇺🇸 U.S. Side (More Natural Experience):
Maid of the Mist – Legendary boat ride into the roar of the falls.
Cave of the Winds – Wooden walkways take you near the Bridal Veil Falls.
Niagara Falls State Park – Oldest state park in the U.S.; beautiful walking trails and scenic overlooks.
Observation Tower – Best spot for panoramic views of all 3 falls.
Aquarium of Niagara – Great for families.
Take a boat ride (Maid of the Mist or Niagara City Cruises – depending on side).
Walk across the Rainbow Bridge for a unique view (and passport stamp).
See the falls lit up at night – color shows and fireworks (summer/fall).
Zipline to the Falls (Canada side) – thrilling and scenic.
Helicopter Tour – Aerial views of the waterfalls and river gorge.
Explore Niagara Glen – Forested trails and boulder fields near the river.
Visit nearby wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake (Canada) – especially famous for ice wine.
Try the Whirlpool Aero Car – Cable car ride over the swirling Niagara Whirlpool.
Relax at a spa or take a wine and cheese tour.
Luxury:
Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa (Canada) – Unbeatable views of Horseshoe Falls.
Sheraton Fallsview (Canada) – Central with indoor waterpark access.
Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino (U.S.) – Upscale and entertainment-focused.
Mid-Range:
Niagara Grandview Manor (Canada) – Charming B&B with views.
Comfort Inn The Pointe (U.S.) – Closest hotel to the U.S. falls.
Wyndham Garden Niagara Falls Fallsview (Canada) – Affordable with a great location.
Budget-Friendly:
Red Coach Inn (U.S.) – Cozy, historic inn just steps from the falls.
Hostelling International Niagara Falls (Canada) – Budget option for solo travelers.
Quality Hotel & Suites (Canada) – Good location, decent pricing.
With a View:
Skylon Tower Revolving Dining Room (Canada) – Fancy, unforgettable views.
Top of the Falls Restaurant (U.S.) – Seasonal, overlooking Horseshoe Falls.
Table Rock House Restaurant – Right next to the edge of Horseshoe Falls.
Local Favorites:
Weinkeller – Wine-focused, locally-sourced Canadian cuisine.
Doc Magilligan’s – Cozy Irish pub near Fallsview hotels.
Third Street Retreat (U.S.) – Hidden gem for breakfast and lunch.
Sweet Treats & Quick Bites:
BeaverTails – Fried dough pastry (Canada-only classic).
Tim Hortons – Coffee & donut Canadian staple.
Clifton Hill eateries – Family-friendly options from pizza to poutine.
🌎 International Crowd: Tourists from around the world, especially in summer.
🎡 Fun-Focused: The Canada side feels like a mini theme park (Clifton Hill), while the U.S. side is more nature-focused.
🍷 Wine Culture: The Niagara region is one of North America’s top wine-producing areas.
🧘 Relaxation + Adventure: You’ll find a balance between tranquil river walks and high-adrenaline attractions.
🏞️ Natural Wonder: It’s more than just waterfalls—gorgeous gorges, trails, and state parks surround the region.