Niagara Falls Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Niagara Falls with our comprehensive guide, featuring top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is located in North America and is considered to be one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The falls are situated on the Niagara River, which begins at Lake Erie and flows northward to Lake Ontario. The falls consist of three waterfalls: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls, which is the most massive of the three. The falls are also a popular tourist destination, attracting an estimated 30 million visitors every year.

List of Places to Visit in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls offers an array of places to visit, catering to travelers with different interests. Below are some highlights.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Old Fort Niagara State Park

Old Fort Niagara is a historic fort that has stood on the shores of Lake Ontario for more than 300 years. Visitors to the park can explore the fort’s museums and exhibits to learn about the fort’s important role in American history.

Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center

The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is a museum dedicated to telling the story of the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses during the 19th century that helped slaves escape to freedom in Canada.

Natural Attractions of Niagara Falls: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Niagara Falls State Park

Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in America. Visitors can take a walk along the park’s trails to enjoy the natural beauty of the region and witness some of the most breathtaking views of the falls.

Maid-of-the-Mist Boat Tour

Maid-of-the-Mist is a boat tour that takes visitors close to the falls, providing an experience that is both thrilling and awe-inspiring. The tour boat takes visitors up-close to the base of the Horseshoe Falls, creating an experience that is both thrilling and awe-inspiring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls also offers excellent opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some highlights:

Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail

The Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail is a 13-mile trail that runs along the Niagara River from Niagara Falls to Lewiston. The trail is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists, offering scenic views of the Niagara Gorge and the surrounding area.

Devil’s Hole Trail

The Devil’s Hole Trail is a hiking trail that leads visitors on a journey through the Niagara Gorge. The trail is moderately difficult, covering rocky terrain and steep inclines, but it’s a rewarding experience for hikers who want to explore the region’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls: Activities and Tours

Niagara Falls offers many activities and tours that are suitable for visitors of all ages. Here are some highlights:

Niagara Falls Illumination Cruise

Niagara is also famous for its stunning illuminations during the nighttime. Niagara Falls Illumination Cruise takes visitors on a nighttime tour of the falls, allowing them to witness the falls illuminated in spectacular colors.

Niagara Falls Helicopter Tours

For the ultimate birds-eye view of Niagara Falls, visitors can take a helicopter tour that provides unbeatable views of the falls from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Niagara Falls

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Niagara Falls, here’s an ideal itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Niagara Falls State Park and take the Maid-of-the-Mist boat tour
2 Explore the Old Fort Niagara State Park
3 Take a bike ride along the Niagara Scenic Parkway Trail and enjoy the scenery
4 Visit the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
5 Take a helicopter tour of the falls and enjoy the stunning views
6 Go shopping and explore the local food scene
7 Take a day trip to Buffalo or Toronto

Food and Drink Scene of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is home to an array of restaurants, bars, and cafes that offer fantastic food and beverages. Below are some highlights:

Must-Try Dishes

Beef on Weck

Beef on Weck is a sandwich that is popular in the Buffalo region, made with thinly sliced roast beef, horseradish, and kummelweck bread. It’s a local specialty that visitors should try during their visit.

Butter Tarts

Butter tarts are small pastries that are filled with a mixture of sugar, butter, and eggs. They’re a popular treat in Ontario, and visitors can find them throughout Niagara Falls.

Local Beverages

Icewine

Icewine is a sweet dessert wine that is popular in the Niagara region. It’s made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine and is considered a delicacy.

Labatt Blue

Labatt Blue is a popular Canadian beer that is brewed in Ontario.

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Niagara Falls offers an array of accommodation options catering to travelers on different budgets. Here are some recommendations:

Luxury Hotels

For travelers looking for luxury, there are plenty of options, such as Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa, Sheraton on the Falls Hotel, and Niagara Falls Marriott Gateway on the Falls.

Budget Hotels and Hostels

For budget travelers, there are plenty of hostels and budget hotels available, including Niagara Falls Ymca Youth Hostel and Niagara Falls Backpackers Hostel.

What to Buy in Niagara Falls: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Niagara Falls is home to a variety of shops where visitors can buy souvenirs and local products. Some popular items include:

Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is a popular product in the Niagara region, and visitors can find it in almost any shop in the area.

Handmade Crafts

Niagara Falls is home to many artists and craftspeople who create beautiful handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a diverse region with a rich history and culture. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions. Some cultural events that visitors can participate in include:

Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights

The Winter Festival of Lights is an annual event that takes place during the winter months, featuring light displays, fireworks, and music.

Niagara Jazz Festival

The Niagara Jazz Festival takes place every summer and features live music performances by jazz musicians from all over the world.

Best Time to Visit Niagara Falls

The best time to visit Niagara Falls is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and pleasant, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy. The falls are also beautifully illuminated at night, providing a magical experience.

Do’s and Don’ts of Niagara Falls

Visitors should know some important do’s and don’ts of Niagara Falls to have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Do:

  • Do explore the local culture and customs.
  • Do take a guided tour if it’s your first visit.
  • Do stay overnight to enjoy the falls illuminated at night.
  • Do wear comfortable shoes when exploring the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t try to climb over the safety barriers.
  • Don’t feed the wildlife in Niagara Falls.
  • Don’t litter.
  • Don’t attempt to swim in the Niagara River.

Safety and Health

Visitors should take necessary precautions while visiting Niagara Falls.

Safety in Niagara Falls

  • Always follow the posted signs and instructions.
  • Stay on designated trails and walkways.
  • Don’t get too close to the edge of the falls.
  • Use caution when taking photos.

Health in Niagara Falls

Visitors should carry necessary medications and wear sunscreen and protective clothing while exploring the area.

Getting to Niagara Falls: Transportation Options and Logistics

Niagara Falls is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some recommendations:

Airports Near Niagara Falls

  • Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
  • Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Bus Stations Near Niagara Falls

  • Greyhound Bus Station
  • MegaBus Station

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station
  • Car rentals

How to Get Around in Niagara Falls

Visitors can get around Niagara Falls by car, bus, bike, and on foot. Some popular car rental companies are Hertz, Alamo, and Enterprise. The area also has an excellent public transportation system, and visitors can take the Niagara Falls Transit bus service.

Where to Go Next from Niagara Falls: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Niagara Falls is located in a region that offers plenty of additional destinations and excursions to explore, including:

  • Buffalo, NY
  • Toronto, ON
  • Lake Ontario
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Conclusion

Niagara Falls is a stunning destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural events, or food and drink, Niagara Falls has something to offer. With this comprehensive guide, you now have all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to Niagara Falls.

Maid of the Mist Maid of the Mist Niagara Falls from Skylon Tower Niagara Falls from Skylon Tower