Niagara Falls

The Basics

Niagara Falls tours make it easy to experience the US side of the famous waterfalls relatively easily. One of the best ways to experience Niagara Falls, USA is on a boat ride. Maid of the Mist boat tours run from the New York side of Niagara Falls. Take a boat tour at night to see views of the falls while it’s illuminated.

You can also experience the falls from the vantage points at Niagara Falls State Park, Goat Island, and the Hurricane Deck at Cave of the Winds. For a bird’s-eye view of Niagara Falls, venture to the family-friendly observation deck of the Niagara Falls Observation Tower, or go even higher during a plane or helicopter tour over the falls.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Maid of the Mist boat tours provide ponchos, though you may want to bring a waterproof cover to keep your phone dry.

• Many guided tours to Niagra Falls include free time at the falls.

• If you plan on visiting the part of Niagara Falls in Canada, be sure you bring all the required documentation for the border crossing and re-entry.

• Maid of the Mist boats are fully wheelchair accessible, as is the Niagara Falls Observation Tower, Niagara Scenic Trolley, Niagara Gorge Discovery Center, and the Niagara Falls Visitor Center. The Cave of the Winds offers only limited accessibility.

How to Get There

Amtrak trains and buses operate between New York City and Niagara Falls, though it's a 7- to 10-hour journey. The quickest way to get there from NYC is to fly to Buffalo Airport, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from the falls, and take a taxi or shuttle bus from there. Bus tours offer round-trip transportation to the falls from Buffalo and New York City.

When to Get There

Summer is the best time to visit Niagara Falls, with boat trips departing from late April/early May to late October/early November. On summer nights, witness the Niagara Falls fireworks displays.

Things to Do Nearby

If you’ve got some time, dust off your hiking boots for a jaunt along the scenic Niagara Gorge Trail. Stop by the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center for advice on trails to suit your fitness level and schedule. Other area attractions include the Niagara Aerospace Museum, the Niagara Wax Museum of History, and the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls, where you can scour the stalls for bargain deals on brand-name goods.

How much does it cost to tour Niagara Falls?

That depends. Niagara Falls State Park is free to enter daily. However, parking and on-site amenities can set you back, while Maid of the Mist and Hornblower Niagara Cruises typically cost more than US$25 to ride. Package deals offer a cost-effective way to explore the area’s sights.

How long is the Maid of the Mist tour?

A typical Maid of the Mist journey lasts about 20 minutes, not including boarding time. Hornblower Niagara Cruises on the Canadian side of the falls take just about as long. Be sure to wear quick-drying clothes, as even a short cruise will likely leave you soaked.

Is a day trip to Niagara Falls worth it?

Yes, a day trip to Niagara Falls is worth it. One of the great wonders of the world, the mesmerizing falls are among the most powerful on Earth. Book a Maid of the Mist or Hornblower Niagara Cruise to get up close to the action.

Do I need to buy Niagara Falls tickets in advance?

No, you don’t need to buy tickets to Niagara Falls in advance. The falls are always free to admire without a reservation. However, if you plan to purchase Maid of the Mist or Hornblower Niagara Cruise tickets or book a combination sightseeing package, it’s worth doing so early.

What is the best way to experience Niagara Falls?

The best way to experience Niagara Falls is to get as close as possible. Consider taking Maid of the Mist or Hornblower Niagara Cruise rides or booking a Journey Behind the Falls experience. Both safely get up close and personal and offer unique perspectives on this natural wonder of the world.

What is the best month to visit Niagara Falls?

The best time of year to visit Niagara Falls is between May and September when all the major attractions are open. In winter, cruises stop operating as the falls can partially freeze. To beat peak summer crowds, visit during the shoulder season in May or September.

Ways to explore

The best way to experience Niagara Falls is on a boat ride. From the New York side, Maid of the Mist boat tours run day and night seasonally; on the Canadian side, Hornblower boats do the same. You can also experience the falls from the vantage points at Niagara Falls State Park, Goat Island, and the Hurricane Deck at Cave of the Winds. For a bird’s-eye perspective, venture to the observation deck of the Niagara Falls Observation Tower, or go even higher during a plane or helicopter flightseeing tour over the falls.

If you plan on visiting the Canadian side, be sure to bring all the required documentation for the border crossing and re-entry. Whether traveling from nearby American hubs like Buffalo or Canadian cities like Toronto, set aside a minimum of one full day to take in the wealth of attractions available at the falls.

Accessibility

Much of Niagara Falls and its attractions are accessible to wheelchair users. Accessible highlights include Maid of the Mist and Hornblower cruises, Table Rock, Niagara’s Fury, the Butterfly Conservatory, and more. The Niagara Scenic Trolley and Discover Niagara Shuttle are both wheelchair-friendly.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottles, snacks, waterproof bags, camera

What to wear

Seasonally appropriate gear; waterproof, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Smoking, drones, biking on footpaths

Amenities

Restaurants, Wi-Fi-equipped shuttle, restrooms

Address

Niagara Falls is around 23 miles (37 kilometers) north of Buffalo, and it can be reached by car in roughly 30 minutes. On the Canadian side, the falls are around two hours by car from Toronto, while bus services also link both cities to the falls. Guided tours frequently include round-trip transit, and multi-day itineraries serve destinations as far as New York City.

Driving

If driving from Buffalo to the American side of Niagara Falls, take I-190 N to the Niagara Scenic Parkway. If driving from Toronto to Niagara Falls, take Queen Elizabeth Way to ON-420 E. There are parking lots on both sides of the falls, with varying rates. Most lots on the American side have US$5–10 daily rates, while lots on the Canadian side generally range between CA$10–35.

Public transportation

Limited public transit options are available to Niagara Falls. If traveling from Toronto, Megabus services connect Toronto Bay Street and the falls. If visiting from Buffalo, Empire Service Amtrak trains run between Exchange Street and Amtrak Niagara Falls Station.

Best times to visit

Visit the most popular attractions early in the day or later in the evening for your best chance of avoiding the large Niagara Falls crowds.

Best days to visit

If you can, avoid weekends and holidays, especially during the summer high season. Weekdays—particularly Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday—are generally a calmer time at the falls.

Best months to visit

Summer is peak season at the falls, when all attractions are open—but it does come with crowds. Instead, aim for the May and September shoulder seasons.

Special events

There are many festivals and events held throughout the year at Niagara Falls. Don’t miss particular highlights like Niagara Falls Illumination, when the falls are lit up after dark; the event coincides with major holidays and the festive season.