Things To Do
in Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls on the United States side is a collection of three waterfalls that straddle the border between the US state of New York and the Canadian province of Ontario. The most famous of these is Horseshoe Falls, which is known for its iconic curved shape. Visitors can experience the sheer power and beauty of the falls up close by taking boat tours such as the Maid of the Mist.
Surrounding the falls is a scenic park with stunning viewpoints, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
Prices
- ๐ Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- ๐ฝ๏ธ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- โ Coffee: $3 - $6
- ๐ Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- ๐ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- ๐๏ธโโ๏ธ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Cave of the Winds. You'll experience the falls up close, feeling the mist on your face.
Head to Niagara Falls State Park for a packed picnic lunch. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and explore the park's trails.
Take a sunset cruise on the Maid of the Mist. Witness the breathtaking views of the illuminated falls as night falls.
Begin with a hike along the Goat Island trails. Marvel at the stunning views and the natural beauty surrounding you.
Experience the thrill of the zipline to the falls. Feel the rush as you soar above the landscape.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the falls. Unwind while taking in the vibrant lights reflecting on the water.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural beauty and stunning views of the falls.
- Attractions and activities such as boat tours, hiking, and observation towers.
- Rich cultural heritage and history related to the falls and surrounding area.
- Opportunities for photography and nature watching.
- Accessibility for visitors with various visitor centers and facilities.
- Crowded during peak tourist seasons, leading to long wait times.
- Commercialization of the area may detract from natural experience.
- Environmental concerns related to tourism and preservation of the falls.
- Seasonal weather variations can affect visitation and activities.
- Cost of attractions and accommodations can be high.
Best Activities in Niagara Falls
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the network of trails with stunning views of the falls and rapids.
Experience an exhilarating ride through the Niagara River rapids and whirlpool.
Enjoy activities such as biking, picnicking, and birdwatching in the park surrounding the falls.
Tours
Uncover the best of Niagara Falls with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Niagara Falls
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers various viewpoints such as Prospect Point, Luna Island, and Goat Island for stunning views of the falls.
Provides a unique opportunity to get up close to the Bridal Veil Falls with a series of decks and platforms.
A great way to get panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding area.
Food in Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This iconic sandwich features tender, thinly sliced roast beef piled high on a Kummelweck roll, typically served with horseradish and au jus. For an authentic experience, head to the Old Falls Street area which houses several eateries offering this delicacy.
Must-Try!
A beloved regional dish, the fish fry typically includes a generous portion of beer-battered or breaded fresh fish, often accompanied by sides such as coleslaw, fries, and tartar sauce. Look for this classic dish at local taverns and seafood shacks.
Beef on Weck is an iconic sandwich featuring tender, thinly sliced roast beef piled high on a Kummelweck roll, typically served with horseradish and au jus. For an authentic experience, head to the Old Falls Street area which houses several eateries offering this delicacy.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Niagara Falls better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of downtown, the Niagara Falls City Market is a bustling hub of local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Visitors can sample diverse street food offerings and purchase locally sourced ingredients to enjoy at their leisure.
Explore the vibrant food truck scene along Niagara Street, where a variety of mobile vendors dish up delectable street eats ranging from gourmet tacos and wood-fired pizzas to creative fusion cuisine. This area is perfect for sampling a diverse array of local flavors on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to respect the traditions and customs of the local Native American tribes, such as the Seneca Nation, who have a significant presence in the area. Visitors should avoid appropriating Native American symbols or rituals and should be mindful of the sensitive history and ongoing struggles of indigenous communities.
Niagara Falls is a natural wonder and it is essential for visitors to show respect for the environment. Littering or damaging the natural surroundings is unacceptable, and visitors are encouraged to follow designated paths and respect the wildlife and plant life in the area.
Visitors should be mindful of the diverse range of individuals who come to experience Niagara Falls. It is important to be courteous and considerate of others, including giving space for others to enjoy the views and being mindful of cultural and language differences.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Niagara Falls with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Niagara Falls
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in the United States, including in Niagara Falls. In restaurants, it is usual to tip 15-20% of the total bill. Additionally, it is common to tip hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides.
Payment in Niagara Falls, United States, is typically made using credit/debit cards, cash, or mobile payment methods. Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Niagara Falls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a popular time to visit Niagara Falls, as the weather is mild and the falls are surrounded by beautiful blossoming flowers and foliage.
Summer is peak tourist season at Niagara Falls, with warm weather and the opportunity to take boat tours to get up close to the falls.
Fall is a stunning time to visit Niagara Falls, as the foliage turns into a beautiful tapestry of red, orange, and yellow hues.
Winter offers a unique experience at Niagara Falls, with the chance to see the falls partially frozen and the surrounding area decorated with festive lights.
Niagara Falls at Night
Hiking in Niagara Falls
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This trail offers stunning views of Niagara Gorge and the Niagara River. It features several hiking paths that range from easy to moderate difficulty.
Located just north of Niagara Falls, this park features hiking trails that overlook the Niagara River and provide access to scenic views and picnic areas.
This park offers trails through beautiful landscapes along the Lower Niagara River, with options for hiking, biking, and even enjoying art installations.
Home to several trails within the park, this area provides access to the waterfalls and scenic views, making it a popular spot for hikers and tourists alike.
Though a bit further away, this park is known as the 'Grand Canyon of the East,' featuring dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and over 60 miles of hiking trails.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Niagara Falls through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Niagara Falls by plane.
Located approximately 20 miles from Niagara Falls, this is the primary airport serving the Buffalo area and provides numerous international flights.
Situated about 75 miles away in Toronto, Canada, it's the largest airport in Canada and offers a wide range of international flights.
Located just a few miles from Niagara Falls, this airport offers limited international flights, primarily to Canada.
Around 120 miles from Niagara Falls, this airport serves as a major hub in Ohio with various international services.
Located approximately 250 miles from Niagara Falls, DTW is a major international airport serving the Detroit area with many flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly of European descent, this group comprises the largest demographic in Niagara Falls.
A significant portion of the population, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Includes individuals of various backgrounds, representing a growing segment of the city's demographics.
Comprising various ethnicities, this group includes individuals from countries such as China, India, and the Philippines.
Individuals identifying with more than one racial background, reflecting the increasing diversity in the area.
This group includes Indigenous peoples who have historically inhabited the region.
A smaller population segment, but part of the overall diversity of Niagara Falls.
The Soul of Niagara Falls
Discover the essence of Niagara Falls through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in schools and recreational leagues throughout the Niagara Falls area.
Ice hockey is widely enjoyed, with local leagues and youth programs fostering participation.
Soccer is growing in popularity, with many clubs and leagues available for both youth and adults.
Baseball has a strong tradition in the region, with various youth leagues and local teams.
Golfing is popular in Niagara Falls, with several golf courses available for enthusiasts.
Running and jogging are common activities, supported by parks and scenic routes in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Niagara Falls.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Niagara Falls offer an array of vegetarian and vegan choices, from inventive plant-based dishes to veganized versions of classic favorites. Look out for menus featuring fresh salads, veggie wraps, and innovative meatless entrees that cater to diverse dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can dine with confidence in Niagara Falls, as numerous establishments provide gluten-free alternatives and are capable of accommodating special dietary needs. Options may range from gluten-free pastas and pizzas to gluten-conscious menu items clearly marked for easy identification.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Niagara Falls with these cultural adventures.