Vacation Spotlight: Niagara Falls
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Niagara Falls is a fantastic place to take a summer roadtrip especially if you conveniently live within a reasonable 4-6 hour drive. Even though this is the busiest time of the year, you will be able to take full advantage of the water based attractions in the sunny, warm weather. Seeing one of the largest falls in the world is definitely an awe-inspiring experience that I recommend adding to your bucket list. I was able to make several trips over to the falls in recent years, however, I would love to explore the area more and take a trip to the Canadian side one of these days. From what I’ve heard, there are more fun attractions in Ontario and even better views of the falls from various hotels, restaurants, and overlooks.
Nevertheless, a vacation on the US side is a still a wonderful experience, not to mention an easy accessible roadtrip from many big cities in the Northeast and Midwest. Plus, you don’t have to worry about getting a passport. Either side you decide to stay on, you will get to enjoy amazing views of what I consider one of the most bucket worthy places on the East coast.
There are so many beautiful overlooks, as well as iconic attractions which will take you up close and personal for a small fee. Surprisingly, these spectacular falls do not earn a place on the the “Seven Wonders of the World ranking,” although they are considered worthy of a spot by many travel experts. Because of the immense popularity & beauty, Niagara Falls is often referred to as an “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
The Three Waterfalls
Niagara is actually the collective name of 3 falls: The Horseshoe Falls in Canada, and the American and Bridal Veil Falls in New York. The American Falls reach a height of about 180 feet (due to the rocks at the base) and a width of 830 feet. The Horseshoe Falls are approximately 173 feet high with a width of around 2200 feet. Bridal Veil stands about 80 feet with a width of around 50 ft. Although you may have seen it in many pictures, nothing really compares to making the trip out here yourself (the same goes for pretty much every natural wonder). You can explore more of the history at the state park visitor center.
Read more about the history of the Falls
There are plenty of activities and attractions in the area. Unfortunately, on my first visit (where I was severely limited on time), I was unable to book a cruise on the Maid of the Mist. More than 10 years later in the summer of 2025, I finally got to take a ride on what I consider one of the must-do’s for new tourists. Of course there are many more, however, this list should give you an idea of where to start. While pricey helicopter tours are available, there are many free and low cost ways to take in the beauty of one of the country’s greatest natural wonders!
In this guide, I will cover a few of my favorite places to visit while vacationing in the area. This is after 3 trips to the area and is subject to change in the future if I discover anything “better.”
1. Cave of the Winds
I had so much fun getting up close and personal with the falls at this awesome attraction. Walking the boardwalk is the best way to get a really close glimpse of the falls. First, you will put on a special poncho and sandals (which you get to keep as a souvenir). Next, you go 170+ feet down an elevator. You will then get to walk across wooden walkways along the river to Hurricane Deck, which takes you within 20 feet of the falls! This was an incredible experience – you can’t possibly get any closer to the falls. Note that you will get drenched, but it’s worth it! Read more about my experience.
2. Visit Niagara Falls State Park
The oldest state park in the US is the perfect place for photography. There are plenty of scenic overlooks to take great pictures. I really love the amazing views of the Canadian side. I love seeing the boat tours go by and catching a glimpse of a beautiful rainbow over the river. Binoculars (a small fee applies) for getting an up close look at the falls are scattered about in different scenic locations. You can enjoy various activities such as hiking, attractions like Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist, trolley rides, and more!
However, you don’t need to feel compelled to pay for anything as all the overlooks are completely free. There is also a visitor’s center where you can browse through some exhibits and grab a bite or cup of coffee.
3. Maid of the Mist boat ride
My new #1 attraction (after my recent summer trip) is the iconic Maid of the Mist boat ride. This is a really fun experience where you will get totally soaked in exchange for the best views of the falls. Because you will technically be entering Canadian waters, you get the best head on view (on the American side) of Horseshoe Falls. A really steal for only 30 bucks, plus you get access to the best observation deck. Again prepare to get absolutely soaked (the poncho doesn’t help much). Read more about my experience taking this boat ride.
3. Watch the illumination show
Every night, the falls are illuminated in a rainbow of spectacular colors via LED lights. The show runs nightly, with times varying throughout the year. The show starts at dusk and ends sometime after Midnight, so there is plenty of time to schedule in a quick view with other plans (we walked over to the show after dinner). From May-October, you will also get to see a fireworks show (takes place at 10pm every night). I wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to see this show, but I would walk over here if you happen to be staying in a hotel or dining in the region.
5. Rock out at the Hard Rock Niagara
Although a bit smaller than other locations we have visited, we still had a blast at this tourist hotspot. At Hard Rock, you will enjoy a great menu, great memorabilia, and great music! It’s always a fun vacation choice in my opinion. It’s located within close walking distance to all the attractions and overlooks. I love that you can order a specialty drink and pay a few extra bucks to keep the souvenir glass. Also, I love browsing around in the gift shop.
I highly recommend the twisted mac and cheese. It has a slightly tangy, spicy flavor and it is amazing. I always order a side on every visit. You will find all your favorite comfort foods here – burgers, fajitas, and wings here. My favorite apps include: Margherita Flatbread, onion rings, and legendary nachos. Oh, and their fajitas are awesome too. I am still sad they got rid of those amazing spring rolls a few years back (what were they thinking?).
Where to stay
We have stayed in hotels right in the falls area and 30 min away. I recommend booking a hotel in the area for convenience and to better enjoy the vacation ambiance. We have never stayed at Seneca Casino, but we have planned nightly entertainment here. The highlight for me was the beautiful spa, where I received a deep tissue massage. What a gorgeous spa – just relaxing in the facilities was almost as nice as the massage itself (I love the hot tub and sauna).
In addition to traditional casino amenities, you will also have access to several on-site bars, restaurants, and gift ships. While hotel rooms can be pricey during the summer months, this is a great place to stay as it is within walking distance of all attractions.
There are numerous lodging options within walking distance of the state park. It’s best to stay in a hotel in the region so you can walk to all attractions, change out of wet clothes, and skip the parking fee at the state park ($10-15). On our most recent trip, we stayed in a Doubletree about a half hour away in a suburb of Buffalo, and honestly it was not worth the extra savings. It was inconvenient and time consuming to drive to the falls each day and we were stuck in wet clothes after the boat ride. I will definitely be booking near the state park again on my next trip.
Near the state park, you will find a mix of budget friendly and upscale options. The Sheraton seems to a popular choice which offers affordable rates. This hotel has a Rainforest Cafe and Starbucks on-site, plus it’s within easy walking distance of the state park. This will likely be my choice on my next vacation.
Tips for a great vacation!
- Bring with a waterproof camera/waterproof phone pouch for water based attractions.
- Book a hotel within walking distance of the state park for convenience. It would stink to walk around in wet clothes all day.
- Book in the spring for cheaper rates/less crowds. It can get insanely crowded during peak season!
- Tours are popular and sell out frequently. Avoid weekends and holidays. Buy tickets in advance online.
- Book spa treatments in advance. I tried to book a few days in advance prior to my recent trip and they were completely sold out.
- Apply for a passport several months in advance (if you don’t already have one) – you will need it to visit the Canadian side.
More fun touristy attractions
I’ve heard nothing but positive feedback about these attractions. I would love to add these to my bucket list!
A helicopter ride over the falls – This looks like an amazing experience! I can’t imagine a better view of the falls than soaring above in a guided helicopter tour. We were so tempted to take a ride on our last visit, but had to skip out due to time constraints.
Niagara Sky Wheel – This Ferris Wheel is located on the Canadian side and offers excellent views of both the Horseshoe and American Falls. Even better, the enclosed cars are heated in the winter and air conditioned in the summer months!
White Water Walk – This attraction on the Canadian side allows you to walk across a boardwalk, looking below at Class 6 rapids. This sounds like a fantastic experience – definitely something to look into if you are a visiting the Canadian side.
Hiking in Niagara Glen – I love hiking, so what could be better than a hike with spectacular waterfall scenery? The 2.5 mile trail along the Niagara River Whirlpool is a magnificent trek with only 200 foot elevation gain.
Addresses:
Cave of the Winds: Goat Island
Niagara Falls State Park: 24 Buffalo Ave.
Seneca Falls Casino: 310 4th Street
Hard Rock Cafe: 303 Prospect Street
Rainbow Air, Inc. Helicopter Tours: 454 Main Street
Maid of the Mist: 151 Buffalo Ave.
Niagara Sky Wheel: 4946 Niagara Pkwy Ontario
White Water Walk: Niagara Pkwy Ontario
Niagara Glen Nature Center: 3050 Niagara Pkwy Ontario
