in North America. Straddling the US and Canadian border, this collection of three massive falls—the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls—is jaw-dropping in both size and splendor. The American side is the oldest
in the US, while the Canadian side is protected parkland. Aside from the gorgeous waterfall views, this area is home to tons of tourist attractions, activities, sightseeing, and restaurants.
, so I’ve spent more time visiting these two cities than anywhere else on Earth. At this point, I’ve been to Niagara Falls enough times to draw my own map—it’s where my parents got married, and where my family goes when we have a few empty hours to fill and want to get out of the house. While I personally prefer the Canadian side since it has much more to do with its kitschy shops and attractions, postcard views, and high-rise hotels, I’ve spent more time on the American side since it doesn’t require border control, and is still home to exceptional state park trails, close access to the falls (the Maid of the Mist boat tour takes you directly to the base of the falls), and the Cave of the Winds—the tourist attraction you’ve probably seen pictures of where guests don bright rain ponchos and get drenched on a walking path at the base of the Bridal Veil Falls.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a nature-filled, quiet getaway where you can simply stare in awe at the world wonder, or want to experience all the brightly-colored, campy tourist attractions at Clifton Hill in Ontario, here’s how to experience Niagara Falls your way.
If you’re flying, the closest domestic airport to Niagara Falls is Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) in New York, which is roughly a 30–40 minute drive away. For access to the Canadian side, fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), which is about an hour-and-a-half drive away from the falls. From there, you can nab a rental car or hop on a shuttle from either airport. You can also take the Go Train from Toronto or the Niagara AirBus from Toronto, Buffalo, and Niagara. Once you’re there, the local
system can take you to and from tourist attractions, accommodations, and restaurants on the Canadian side, while the
Can you do both the American and Canadian side of Niagara Falls in one day?
Crossing between the American and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls will take just a few minutes during off-peak hours. Since this is still crossing the border into another country, be sure to bring all your paperwork (like your
). The four main spots to cross into Canada are the Peace Bridge, Queenston-Lewiston Bridge, Rainbow Bridge, and, if you’re coming from Detroit, the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor.
If it’s a nice day, consider walking the Rainbow Bridge instead of driving. It’s open 24/7 every day of the year (but customs are not, so be sure to check the schedule before you head out), and takes about 15–20 minutes to walk it on average. The views of all three of the falls while you walk are excellent. Each of these crossings requires a cash toll fee, including when traversing the Rainbow Bridge on foot.
When is the best time of year to visit Niagara Falls?
Niagara Falls is open year-round, but depending on which season you go, you can expect a very different experience. Peak season is summer, when you can enjoy bright sunshine, hop on Maid of the Mist boat tours, and see firework displays. It’s also peak tourist season, so expect crowds. Spring and fall mean milder temperatures and beautiful spring flowers or foliage, making it the best time for scenic drives. Winter is bracingly cold, with beautiful snow-covered vistas and frozen, icy waters.
Niagara Falls is incredibly easy to do on your own. The park itself is free and there are plenty of viewpoints you can access via a gentle walk. But, if you are interested in hearing more of the history, getting access to special viewpoints, and doing one-of-a-kind experiences like boat tours or walks through underground tunnels, it’s best to book a tour. You can book tours day of, but to ensure your spots are secure, I recommend booking in advance, especially during peak seasons. You can book guided tours online that group together a few different activities, like this one that takes you to
Skylon Tower, on a Niagara Falls boat ride, and through the Behind the Falls experience
, or just entrance tickets to one excursion, like this one to the
