U.S. vs. Canada: Which Side of Niagara Falls Should You Visit? U.S. vs. Canada: Which Side of Niagara Falls Should You Visit? September 12, 2011 Niagara Falls is something you have to see to believe. It’s big. It’s bold. It’s beautiful. But visiting Niagara Falls also requires that you make a few choices. Like the Grand Canyon in Arizona , there are two very distinct sides – one in Canada and one in the United States – both of which have their advantages and disadvantages. Despite what many people think, Niagara Falls is not a national park in either the United States or Canada , which means the experience is not regulated by the national governments and has the potential to be a bit overwhelming and commercialized. Nonetheless, it really is one of those natural wonders that people should make the point to see at least once in a lifetime.

First, the Nitty-Gritty Details Niagara Falls can be reached from a number of popular destinations in Canada and the United States: Distance from Buffalo, New York, to Niagara Falls: 20 miles / 32 kilometers Distance from New York City to Niagara Falls: 408 miles / 656 kilometers Distance from Toronto to Niagara Falls: 83 miles / 133 kilometers There are four airports located within two hours of Niagara Falls. They are: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) – Located in Canada, about 1.5 hours to the north. Hamilton International Airport (YHM) – Located in Canada, about 1 hour to the north. Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) – Located in the United States, about 30 minutes to the south. Niagara Falls (New York) International Airport (IAG) – Located in the United States, about 15 minutes to the east You can reach Niagara Falls by car, train, bus or organized tour. In the United States: Amtrak has a train station in the city of Niagara Falls in New York. It is located at 2701 Willard Avenue.

A number of companies offer bus service to Niagara Falls from New York City. In Canada: There is a VIA Rail/Amtrak train that runs from Toronto to the Canadian side of the falls. There is also a GO Train and a Go Bus that operate from Toronto. All forms of these forms of transportation from Toronto have several stops between the city and the waterfalls. And now that you’ve finally reached the site that you came to see, what side of Niagara Falls should you visit? Consider the following: Canada Prepare for commercialization. After driving through the relatively sparse landscape of Ontario, it can be a bit jarring to suddenly happen upon Niagara Falls from the Canadian side. Right next to the natural wonder that is Niagara Falls is a busy street lined with chain restaurants, shops filled with souvenirs and several tour operators. There is no shortage of commerce taking place right on the edge of the falls, but if you need anything at all, then you can buy it on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. Views are arguably more spectacular. There are several waterfalls on the U.S. side, which means it’s a lot easier to see all of them from the Canadian side.

There is a long, clean view of the massive falls from the Canadian side, which makes the whole of Niagara Falls almost more spectacular when you can see everything all at once. If you’ve come to see the waterfalls and that’s it, this is the place to do it. Parking is more difficult to find and more expensive. Follow the signs to find parking on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, and you’ll find yourself driving far, far away. The walk from the parking lot to the falls can be quite long depending on how busy it is. Also, if you park in Canada, expect to pay somewhere around $20.00. If you park in the United States, you’ll only have to pay $10.00 in the state park, and the information station regarding all of the U.S.-side activities is just a short walk away. Expect more people. Perhaps it’s the fact that Niagara Falls from the Canadian side is more built up or the views are better, but in general, it’s just more crowded. You’ll be enjoying the view with many others by your side when you experience it from Canada. The walk is easier.

The path from which visitors view the waterfalls from the Canadian side is paved, making it much easier to navigate for those with strollers, wheelchairs or other mobility issues. It is a wide sidewalk with plenty of room for lots of people, so it’s incredibly accessible, and everyone can enjoy the falls without much effort. United States It’s located in a state park. Niagara Falls is not part of the United States’ national park system, but it is a state park in New York . This means that it’s not overdeveloped or paved with concrete. There are more trees and meandering walking paths, and the overall landscape is just a lot more scenic. Waterfalls by their very being are natural, so it only makes sense to enjoy them within a natural setting, wrapped by trees, rocks and slick moss. The area is cleaner. When you visit Niagara Falls from the United States, it seems to be a bit cleaner. I’m not sure if it is because the U.S. side of the falls are located in a state park or because the rim of the falls isn’t as close to a busy road, but there’s just a lot less garbage when seen from the U.S. Spend less money on the U.S. side.

It is worth noting that several activities related to the falls are found on both sides, many of which are quite similar (or even run by the same company!). Nonetheless, in cases where there are similar activities, it is always cheaper to take advantage of them on the U.S. side. Also, as noted, parking is less expensive in the United States. Make it an all-day event. You can see Niagara Falls for free in both the U.S. and Canada, and you can take the Maid of the Mist (the under-the-falls boat) from both sides as well, but if you want to experience Niagara Falls from as many angles as possible from one country, then visit from the United States side. You’ll be able to take a walk down along a boardwalk that’s practically built below the falls plus there’s a movie and other interactive activities to enhance your visit. The one main highlight in the United States that isn’t found in Canada is the observation tour, which peeks out over top the falls. Take your walking shoes. Paths along the U.S. rim are a bit windy, and, in addition to strolling right above the falls, there are several other walking trails in the state park.

If you want to enjoy all that the park has to offer, take some time to walk around the rest of the park after you’ve checked out the waterfalls. Prepare to get wet. You’ll definitely get up close and personal with Niagara Falls in the United States, and even if you don’t venture down to the Maid of the Mist or the boardwalk under the falls, you’ll still feel a bit of spray. It feels good, especially during the summer months, and it’s not a ton of spray, but do be prepared that you’re likely to get at least a little damp. My Recommendation If you have a day to spend at Niagara Falls, I recommend you start by parking in the United States. Take advantage of all of the activities in the United States as well, especially since this is where you’ll have the greatest selection of choices and the prices are better. Once you’ve explored the park on the U.S. side, cross the bridge by foot to Canada. A quick note: Don’t forget to check your country’s regulations regarding crossing from one country to the other, as the rules change depending on where you hold a passport from. For some countries, this may require a visa, so do your research well in advance of your visit.

Spend the afternoon taking enjoying the sweeping views with a leisurely stroll on the Canadian side, and grab a bite to eat over here for dinner if you’re so inclined. There is a $.50 toll fee to get back across the border, so be prepared to spare a couple of quarters at the border on your way back to the United States. Tour Resources Since first publishing this post, I’ve had several people contact me regarding travel options to, at and including Niagara Falls. Below please find some touring options from Tours4Fun. I have not personally taken these tours. However, I have participated in a Tours4Fun excursion in the past and recommend the company’s services. In full disclosure, these are affiliate links. Border Crossing - Border Crossing | Niagara Falls Canada Niagara Falls Canada Plan Let us be your guide Discover Discover Niagara Falls Border Crossing Our most popular question at Niagara Falls Tourism is information regarding crossing the Canadian and United States border. Border Services are responsible for entry into the country. For SPECIFIC AND ACCURATE INFORMATION PLEASE REFER TO THE GOVERNMENT'S WEBSITES - To VISIT CANADA . To VISIT the USA . Below is a general condensed idea of what you may need to cross the border as per the websites above.

Visitors to Canada: When you enter Canada, a border services officer may ask to see your passport and a valid visa (if you are arriving from a country from which one is required). If you are a United States citizen (U.S.), you need a Passport, a Passport Card or an Enhanced Licence ( The states of Michigan, New York, Vermont and Washington are issuing) to enter Canada. These are issued and applied for in your home country; the Passports and Passport Card applications can be picked up at your local Post Office and the Enhanced Licence is issued at your DMV. A passport is required for anyone travelling by air, while by land U.S. Citizens 16+ can use the Passport, Passport Card or the Enhanced Licence. As a U.S. Green Card holder, you do not need a visitor visa to travel to Canada. However, you are expected to have an eTA if you plan to fly to or transit through Canada. When flying to Canada, you will need to present: proof of status in the U.S. (such as a valid Green Card), and your valid passport that you used to apply for your eTA. The border services officer will verify your eTA when you arrive in Canada.

When travelling by land or sea directly from the U.S., you will only need to provide proof of your U.S. lawful permanent resident status (such as your Green Card). Inadmissibility: Some people are inadmissible—they are not allowed to come to Canada. Several things can make you inadmissible, including involvement in criminal activity(including driving while impaired convictions), in human rights violations or in organized crime. Bringing Children into Canada Border services officers are on alert for children who need protection. Children under the age of 18 seeking to enter Canada are classified as minors and are subject to the entry requirements set out under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. A more detailed examination will be conducted for minors entering Canada without proper identification or those travelling in the company of adults other than their parents or legal guardian(s). This additional scrutiny helps ensure the safety of the children. Minor children travelling alone must have proof of citizenship. We also strongly recommend that the children carry a letter from both parents (if applicable) that authorizes the person meeting them to take care of them while they are in Canada. The letter should include the length of the stay and the address and telephone numbers of the parents.

If you are travelling with minors, you must carry proper identification for each child such as a birth certificate, passport, citizenship card, permanent resident card or Certificate of Indian Status. If you are not the parent or guardian of the children, you should also have written permission from the parent/guardian authorizing the trip. The letter should include addresses and telephone numbers where the parents or guardian can be reached. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody or legal separation documents and/or a letter of authorization to facilitate their entry into Canada. If you are travelling with a group of vehicles, make sure you arrive at the border in the same vehicle as your children, to avoid any confusion. Crossing the United States Border When entering the United States by land or water, Canadian citizens are required to present one of the following valid documents: a passport, a NEXUS card, a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card or an enhanced driver's licence/enhanced identification card or a Secure Certificate of Indian Status (when this certificate is available and approved by the United States). For US citizens returning by land you will need a U.S. Passport, U.S.

Passport Card, Enhanced Driver's License,Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry*, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST), Military Identification Cards (for members of the U.S. armed forces on official orders), U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (for U.S. citizens on official maritime business) Crossing the Canadian & United States Border Wait Time About 30 million visitors cross the border every year from the United States into Canada and an additional 18 million visitors arrive by boat or airplane from the USA and every other nation on earth. Visit the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission's website for more information to make the crossing easier, that shows hourly updates regarding border wait times. We always recommend that you visit the Canadian Border Services Agency for detailed information on crossing our borders. Share Q: What time of the year is Niagara Falls open ? A: Niagara Falls is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Q: Are the Falls turned off at night ? A: No Q: Is there a charge to view the Falls? A: The parks are free and open to the public 365 days a year. During the busier months of May through September there is a charge for parking your automobile, r/v etc.

There are also fees for municipally operated “attractions” ie: cave of the winds, maid of the mist, journey behind the falls. Q: What is the best time to visit Niagara falls and what will the weather be like? A: The best weather in Niagara typically occurs from mid May until mid September. Our peak season is during the months of July and August. The first few weeks of September are very nice if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the warm temps. The first two weeks of October are usually the best time for viewing our Fall foliage. Due to the “micro climate” within the Niagara Gorge leaves tend to peak during the third or fourth week of October. Niagara Falls can be very spectacular even during the Winter. Nowadays more and more people visit the Cataract City year round. For monthly average temperatures view the graph below. Bring appropriate clothing. Summer’s for shorts and t-shirts. During Spring and Fall the weather can go from sunny and warm to cold and wet in a very short time. A light parka is handy and be sure to bring your walking shoes! Q: Where should I stay during my visit to Niagara Falls? A: We recommend you try and stay as close to the Falls as possible.

Parking is limited during peak season and getting around on foot & using the shuttle service is the best way to get around and see the sites. We have a list of suggestions and tips here: Niagara Falls Hotel Tips . Q: Which Fallsview hotel has the best view of the Falls? A: Please visit our “ Fallsview Hotel ” page for more information. Q: I don’t have a passport or visa to visit Niagara Falls Canada should I still visit Niagara Falls NY? A: Even though over 90 percent of the visitors go to Niagara Falls Canada you can still enjoy yourself on the New York side of the border. There is a saying that in Canada you can see the Falls but in New York you can feel the Falls, referring to the “Cave of the Winds”. Both sides have their pluses and minuses. Niagara Falls NY is an aging city with not a lot to do after the sun goes down. Niagara Falls Canada has a lot more to offer if staying for a more than a day or two. Q: How can I receive information about Niagara Falls by mail ? A: We do not provide any literature by postal mail. You can use this link to obtain a Niagara Falls travel guide in the mail.

Q: What time do the lights turn on at Niagara Falls? A: You can view the schedule right here ! Q: When are the fireworks displayed at Niagara Falls? A: Fireworks are normally displayed on Friday & Sunday evenings during the summer. You can view the schedule by following this link . Q: Which hotel has the best view for watching the fireworks? A: Well we’ve got you covered right here ! Q: Are there boat rides available year round ? A: Maid of the Mist and the Whirlpool Jet boat operate from early May until late October. *during the months of November-April, Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds and Whirlpool Jetboat are closed. All other attractions and businesses are open year round. ** During the winter months the NY Observation tower’s elevators are closed but the observation deck is open.** Q: What is the best way to get to Niagara Falls ? A: By air, you have to fly into either Toronto, Ontario or Buffalo, New York. Toronto’s airport “ Pearson International ” is 78 miles (125 kilometers) from the Rainbow Bridge. (1 hour & 11 minutes). Traffic congestion on the Q.E.W.

(Queen Elizabeth Way) can double the time it takes to arrive. Realistically it usually takes 90 minutes or more. Buffalo’s Airport “ Buffalo/Niagara International ” is 25 miles (41 kilometers) from the Rainbow Bridge (35 minute drive). Rarely are there traffic delays. To get to the Falls from the airport, you can either rent a car, take a shuttle bus, or arrive by taxi. More information is available from our “ transportation link “. Trailways Bus Service and Amtrak (US) / VIA (Canada) train service is available directly to the cities of Niagara Falls. Hotels do not provide courtesy shuttles to or from the airports. Q: How long will it take to cross the bridge and clear customs? A: Provided it is not a major holiday, you can normally get through inspections in less than ten minutes. Expect a ten to twenty minute wait on Fridays and Saturdays during the late afternoon and early evening going to Canada. Sunday mornings there are delays going in to the US and in the evening going back to Canada. Expect delays of thirty minutes or more on Memorial Day, Canada Day, Independence Day and Labor Day.

Q: What is the best way to visit the Falls and see the attractions? A: The best thing to do is map out your itinerary before you arrive. To walk from one side of the Horseshoe Falls to the other via the Rainbow Bridge is 4 km/2.5 miles (8km/5 miles roundtrip) and that is a long walk! First you need to figure out how you will get to the general area of the falls itself. If you are staying at a local hotel find out the proximity to the Falls and plan your activities from there. A typical tourist will visit the maid of the mist boat ride , view the Falls from either Queen Victoria Park in Canada or the Niagara Reservation Park in the USA (or both). In Canada you can easily walk from Table Rock visit Journey Behind the Falls and then walk to the Maid of the Mist docks. On the US side you can walk from the Falls Experience visitors center to Prospect Point and catch the Maid of the Mist and then walk to Goat Island for the Cave of the Winds , Terrapin Point and the Three Sisters Island. Both the Niagara Falls U.S.A and Niagara Falls Canada Parks departments offer a transit system which stops at the major attractions in their respective countries.

The Niagara Falls Canada “ WeGo ” transits along the Niagara River from Table Rock to Queenston Heights Park with thirteen different stops. To preview it’s route visit this link: niagaraparks . In the US the Parks Trolley system runs a three mile circular route and has six stops. For rates and info visit this link: niagarafallsstatepark Tour companies are abound in Niagara Falls. Be sure to compare what is included with the tour including admissions to the attractions you will visit. While tours tend to be more expensive, they can take a lot of hassle out of walking everywhere and at the end of the day you are still left with plenty of energy for the evening. Q: How far is the train station from the Falls itself ? A: In Niagara Falls Ontario, the Via Rail station (4223 Bridge Street, tel:1-800-361-1235) is 1.6 miles (2.5 km) from the Rainbow Bridge. In Niagara Falls NY the Amtrak train station (27th Street & Lockport Road tel: 716-285-4224) is 2.8 miles (4.5 km) from the Rainbow Bridge.

($10.00 cab fare) Q: How far is the Bus terminal from the Falls. A: In Niagara Falls NY, the Trailways bus terminal (303 Rainbow Blvd. tel: 800-776-7548) is .6 miles (1 km) from the Rainbow Bridge. In Niagara Falls Ontario the GoTransit terminal (4555 Erie St. tel: 905-357-2133) is 1.6 miles (2.5 km) from the Rainbow bridge. Q: Where can I obtain driving directions and a map of Niagara Falls ? A: Visit our maps & info page . Q: Where can I park my car when visiting Niagara Falls ? A: If you are visiting just for the day there are overpriced municipally operated parking lots which charge a fee. In Niagara Falls New York you can park at the Niagara Reservation State Park near the Rainbow Bridge or on Goat Island. In Niagara Falls Canada there are parking lots near the “Table Rock House” adjacent to the Horseshoe Falls. When the lots fill up there is a shuttle service to satellite parking.

If you are spending the night all hotels offer parking and there is almost always a fee. You can get discounted parking at the Fallsview Casino if you obtain a “frequent player card” which involves filling out a form to receive newsletters and other promotional information. Q: Is my US drivers license valid in Canada and vice versa? A: Yes. Q: Is my automobile insurance valid while in Canada? A: In most cases yes including car rentals. You may want to verify this with your insurance company. Q: Will my US cell phone work in Niagara Falls Canada and vice versa? A: Most major carriers (Verizon, AT&T, Rogers) service will work within about a mile of the international border. If you need to place your phone in roam mode additional charges are incurred. Usually $1.00 per minute. Q: Do you arrange tours of the Falls? A: You can reserve a tour by checking our “ tours ” page. Q: Where can I exchange my currency ? A: There are quite a few currency exchange locations in the area and always at both sides of the Rainbow Bridge. The best way to pay for your visit is to place everything on credit cards, you’ll get the best exchange rate from your bank.

Q: I’ll be in New York City and would like to visit Niagara Falls. What are my options ? A: New York City is 406 miles or 653 kilometers from Niagara Falls. By car: It’s a 6.5 hour drive. The quickest route from NY City is to take interstate 80 west to 81 north to 90 west then 190 north to the Robert Moses Parkway. By plane: It is a 45 minute flight. From airport to airport it will usually take three to four hours including driving time to the falls. You can arrange for Buffalo Airport pickups and tours at niagaramajestic or taxi service through Buffalo Airport Taxi. It’s a 30 minute drive from the Buffalo airport to the Falls. By Train: The train ride is great, much of the route follows the New York State Barge Canal and Hudson River. The trip takes nine hours and costs $78.00 each way. Usually four departures daily starting at 7:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. Amtrak offers service from Penn Station in Manhattan. Visit Amtrak’s website for more details. Greyhound offers bus service to Niagara Falls.

This route takes 9-11 hours and the fare is roughly $55.00 one way or $105.00 round trip. Many departure times are available but the ride is exceptionally long. All content property of Niagara Falls Live.com 1997-2016 Niagara Falls Frequently Asked Questions | Niagara USA Funny, unique and interesting reasons why people fall in love with Niagara Falls USA.… More FAQs Here are some of the many questions that we are frequently asked about Niagara Falls. If you have a question that is not answered here, please contact us . Q: Does the Niagara Falls State Park close? A: No, the Niagara Falls State Park does not close. Guests can view the falls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Q: Are wheelchairs and strollers available at Niagara Falls State Park? A. Wheelchairs are available upon request at the Visitor Center located at Niagara Falls State Park, or the police station located on Goat Island. Wheelchairs are extremely limited, so if you have your own, it is recommended to bring it along. Strollers are not available. Q. What is the Niagara USA Discovery Pass?

A: The Niagara USA Discovery Pass includes admission to Maid of the Mist, Observation Tower, Cave of the Winds, Niagara Adventure Theater, Discovery Center, Aquarium of Niagara and the Niagara Scenic Trolley, as well as additional savings at nearby attractions. The Pass is valid from May until October and can be used throughout the season. Purchase your pass here . Q: What's available for dining at the Niagara Falls State Park? Can I have a cook out? A. Niagara Falls State Park offers a number of food service outlets ranging from grab-and-go snack bars and cafe to Top of the Falls Restaurant, overlooking the Horseshoe Falls from every table. Portable food carts are located throughout the park for fast service ice cream, beverages and snacks. In addition, there are several dining options within walking distance outside of the Park, too. Cook outs are not permitted in the Park, but tables are available for a picnic. Q: Can I see the Falls and enjoy the attractions in the winter? A: The Niagara Falls State Park is open year round for viewing the Falls. However, some of the attractions at the Falls are seasonal. The Maid of the Mist boat ride runs from May through late October or early November.

Opening dates depend on the ice conditions of the river. The Cave of the Winds full tour ends late October for the season. There is a partial Cave of the Winds tour in which you descend 175 feet in an elevator alongside of the Bridal Veil Falls and view the falls from an observation deck. The State Park Visitors Center's phone number is (716) 278-1796, or you can find more information on the website . Also, some viewing areas may be closed during the winter months due to icy conditions. Q: Can I take my dog into Niagara Falls State Park? A: Yes, but all pets must be on a 6-foot leash and cleaned up after. Pets are not permitted in any buildings or attractions unless they are service animals. Q: Do I need a passport to ride the Maid of the Mist? A: No, passports are only required when entering another country or returning to the United States. They are not required to ride the Maid of the Mist. Q: Are there accommodations within walking distance to the Falls and Casino? A: Yes! There are several accommodations located close by, within walking distance the Falls including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts and hostels.

Browse Niagara USA accommodations here for more information. Q: Should I call ahead for hotel reservations? A: Yes, you should always check hotel availability ahead of time. You can book Niagara Falls Hotels online or over the phone. Visit Niagara Falls Hotels for more information. Q: Where can I park an RV or motor home? A: Parking for RVs and motor homes is free at the Aquarium of Niagara, located at 701 Whirlpool St. Niagara Falls, NY 14301. For parking on Goat Island at Niagara Falls State Park, call the Visitor Center for more information at (716) 278-1796. On-street parking is available too. Q: What is the closest airport to Niagara Falls? A: The Buffalo Niagara International Airport is the closest airport - approximately 19 miles from Niagara Falls, USA. Q: What public transportation is available from the Buffalo-Niagara International Airport? A: Public transportation to Niagara Falls is available through shuttle, bus, taxi, limo, and car rental. Visit Niagara Falls transportation for more information. Q: How can I get around the county if I don't have my car?

A: There are plenty of options for traveling around Niagara County. Bus, shuttle, taxi, limo, and car rentals are available. Visit Niagara Falls transportation for more information. Q: Where is the Train Station? A: The Amtrak train in Niagara Falls stops at 27th Street & Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14305. Approximately 10 minutes driving time from Niagara Falls State Park. Q: Where is the Bus Station? A: There is a hub for the NFTA bus near the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA. There are also several stops in Niagara Falls and the downtown Niagara Falls area. Q: Where I can I exchange my money into Canadian? A: Currency exchange is available at any bank or at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino located on Third Street. Q: Where is Niagara On The Lake? A: Niagara On The Lake is located in Ontario, Canada Q: What is the legal drinking and gambling age? A: The legal age to consume/purchase alcohol and gamble is 21. Q: Is there a hotel in the Seneca Niagara Casino? A: Yes, the Seneca Niagara Casino offers a 26-level hotel. Visit Niagara Falls Hotels for more information.

Q: Does the Cave of the Winds tour go behind the Falls? A: Unfortunately, the 'cave' collapsed several years ago, however, the Cave of the Winds tour brings you 20-feet away from the Bridal Veil Falls. You can stand on 'Hurricane Deck' and experience storm like conditions. Experience the Falls up close and personal! Q: Can I walk over the bridge into Canada? A: The Rainbow Bridge is walking distance from Niagara Falls, USA. You will need proper identification, a valid Passport, Passport Card, or Enhanced Driver's License. For more information on international travel or acceptable identification visit Niagara Border Crossing. Location facts: New York City is 420 miles from Niagara Falls. Toronto is 90 miles from Niagara Falls. Boston is 475 miles from Niagara Falls. © 2017 Niagara USA. All rights reserved. Niagara Tourism & Convention Corporation Niagara Falls FAQs & Information | Niagara Falls State Park Niagara Falls State Park Photos and Videos Niagara Falls FAQ’s We have answers to the most frequently asked questions about Niagara Falls, USA, to help you better plan your trip. If you have any additional questions contact us directly and we will do our best to help you!

Getting to Niagara Falls Q: What's the location of Niagara Falls State Park? A: We don't actually have a physical address, only a postal address. The approximate entrance to Goat Island is: 24 Buffalo Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14303. GPS coordinates are: Latitude 43.081528 Longitude 79.064240 Q: How do I get to the park? A: For a complete list of directions to Niagara Falls State Park, visit our Maps and Directions page. Q: Where can I park? A: There are four parking lots within the park. Our Parking page provides in-depth information about the parking lots and their locations. Q: How much does parking cost? A: Parking at Lots #1 and #2 within Niagara Falls State Park is $10 per car. Parking Lot #3 is $8 per car. Q: Where is the nearest airport? A: The Buffalo-Niagara International Airport is approximately 30 miles from the park and is easily accessible from the New York State Thruway (I-90). Q: Is the Park accessible to the disabled? A: Yes.

All of our attractions and most footpaths are fully accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and excellent views of Niagara Falls. Q: Are wheelchairs and strollers available? A: Wheelchairs are available upon request, on a first-come first-serve basis, at the Visitor Center. There are free, but extremely limited. If you have one we recommend you bring it along. Strollers are not available within the park. Plan Your Trip Q: Where can I find something to eat? A: Niagara Falls State Park has a number of food service outlets ranging from grab-and-go snack bars and cafes to the spectacular Top of the Falls Restaurant, which provides visitors floor-to-ceiling views of the Falls from every table. Click for more information about Top of the Falls (link) and In-Park Dining (link) Q: Where can I walk and hike? A: Niagara Falls State Park was designed with an emphasis on the appreciation of nature. There are numerous footpaths throughout the park, and a path that gives access to the Niagara Gorge. To learn more about some of the great hiking trails that Niagara has to offer, visit our Discovery Center and Hiking Trails page. Q: Are there bike paths?

A: The footpaths and trails in Niagara Falls State Park are not intended for off-road bicycles. Bicycles are welcome on any roads where vehicle traffic is permitted. Bikes are available for rent just outside the Prospect Point entrance on Old Falls Street. Q: How long does that park stay open? A: Niagara Falls State Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year round. However, park attractions are seaonal and have their own schedules. To learn more about the different attractions that Niagara Falls has to offer, visit our Attractions & Tours page. Q: Where can I find souvenirs? A: There are four gift shops within Niagara Falls State Park that carry officially licensed park souvenirs and merchandise, conveniently located near major attractions. All in-park shops carry a full line of quality souvenirs, including apparel, glassware, gifts and books, as well as last-minute necessities, such as batteries, sunglasses and umbrellas. Or, you can also choose to shop at our online store. For more information about all of our gift shops, visit our Niagara Falls Shop page. Q: How long are Trolley tours?

A: The Niagara Scenic Trolley makes a complete circuit of the park approximately every 30 minutes. It's time well spent to acquaint yourself with the park's layout and history, courtesy of the tour guide. Your Scenic Trolley ticket is good all day, so you can get off at any stop to explore at your leisure, then re-board to continue on to the next destination. Q: How long should I plan to stay? A: To see everything in Niagara Falls State Park, plan to stay for at least a day. A longer visit, however, will allow you to fully experience the beauty of the park and the Falls, as well as visit the attractions in the surrounding area. Check out the Discover Niagara Shuttle to extend your stay beyond your time at Niagara Falls State Park! Q: How do I secure permission to shoot a movie, TV show or other type of production in the park? A: For more information about how to start the permit process, visit our Filming Permits page. Q: Where can I get emergency assistance in the Park? A: Emergency services can be found at New York State Park Police Headquarters near the Aquarium, or by calling (716) 278-1777.

Q: Can I Bring my dog? A: Yes, but ALL pets must be on a 6-foot leash. Please note that pets are not permitted in any buildings or attractions unless they are service animals. Expenses, Groups and Events Q: How much does it cost to see everything at the park? A: It is free to enter the Park and enjoy the views, hikes, picnic areas and all that is Niagara Falls State Park. If you wish to experience the Falls through our various attractions, you can learn more about specific admission fees on the Attractions & Tours page. If you wish to receive a discount, The Niagara USA Discovery Pass can save you up to 35% when multiple park attractions are on your itinerary. Q: What is the Niagara USA Discovery Pass? A: The Niagara USA Discovery Pass allows you to bundle the tickets for different attractions in the Niagara Falls area in order to save money. The cost is $45 for adults and $34 for children between the ages of 6 and 12. To learn more about the discounts you can receive with the Discovery Pass and the attractions that are included in the deal, visit the Discovery Pass page. Q: Can I tour the park with a large group? A: Yes.

Please call (716) 278-1796 for more information. Q: Is there a program for educational groups? A: Yes. Niagara Falls State Park has an interpretive office that organizes programs for school groups and organizations. Please call (716) 299-0822 for more information. Q: Can I host a special event at the park? A: Certainly! Niagara Falls State Park is great a setting for special events including weddings, reunions and banquets. Visit our Weddings & Events page for details and information. Q: How can I get married in Niagara Falls State Park? A: Please call (716) 278-1767 for information. Niagara USA is also a great resource for more information on local wedding planning services. Q: What special services are available for international visitors? A: In the gift shops, many of the books and videos that detail the history of the Falls are available in Japanese, French, and German language versions. Listening aides for a wide variety of language translations are available for the excellent film in the Niagara Adventure Theater. Q: Is there an ATM in the park?

A: There are no ATM machines within the park. Banking services can be found just outside Niagara Falls State Park, within walking distance in downtown Niagara Falls, USA. Interested in keeping up with all the exciting things to do in Niagara Falls? Sign up for our newsletter! Sign Up Thank you for signing up for email alerts! Did you enter a valid email address? Niagara Falls National Heritage Area (U.S. National Park Service) Contact Us Welcome to the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area Designated by Congress in 2008, the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area stretches from the western boundary of Wheatfield, New York to the mouth of the Niagara River on Lake Ontario, including the communities of Niagara Falls, Youngstown, and Lewiston. The region is home to natural wonders, rich cultural traditions, and nationally significant historical sites. Read More

Question: Which US state would you go to to see Niagara Falls?
Answer: New York