Things to do in Niagara Falls
Welcome to Niagara Falls
Straddling the international border between the American state of New York and the Canadian province of Ontario, Niagara Falls is arguably one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. The section of the falls accessible from the American side (the aptly named American Falls) is separated from its northern neighbor by the uninhabited Goat Island, itself accessible by two bridges carrying foot, car, and train traffic. There are almost countless things to do in the area, but the main spectacle is the falls itself and the best use of one’s time is found in taking advantage of the various methods of observing this extraordinary natural phenomenon.
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Top 10 attractions in Niagara Falls
#1
Maid of the Mist Steamboat
You can't get any closer to the thundering cascades of Niagara Falls than on a Maid of the Mist boat tour. The little steamboats have been chugging away into the falls' misty sprays since 1846, making this one of the area’s oldest tourist attractions. Be prepared to get up close and personal with the highest-flow-rate waterfall in the world—and to get wet, which is all part of the unforgettable Maid of the Mist experience.More
#2
Cave of the Winds
At the Cave of the Winds observation decks, thrill-seeking visitors can get within 20 feet (6 meters) of the thundering Niagara Falls for an experience that feels like the inside of a tropical storm with torrents of water cascading down and winds up to 68 mph (109 kph). Safe to say, you’ll probably get wet.More
#3
Bridal Veil Falls
The smallest of the three waterfalls that comprise world-famous Niagara Falls, Bridal Veil Falls is anything but small. Located on the US side of the falls, the 56-foot-wide (17-meter-wide) waterfall thunders over a 78-foot (24-meter) drop. Its frothy white cascade is reminiscent of a bride’s veil, hence the falls’ name.More
#4
Three Sisters Islands
In Niagara Falls State Park, three footbridges link Goat Island to the Three Sisters Islands. From there, you can see impressive views of the rapids of the Niagara River racing toward the falls. It’s a peaceful place to take a walk amid the highly popular park and town of Niagara Falls, New York.More
#5
Whirlpool State Park
Whirlpool State Park proves that the Niagara region’s natural beauty doesn’t end with Niagara Falls. With hiking trails, picnic tables, Niagara River views, and an impressive whirlpool, this park is a great place to spend a few hours. Thanks to the highly oxygenated water, there’s good salmon and trout fishing here, too.More
#6
Aquarium of Niagara
Established in 1965 by scientists, the Aquarium of Niagara has grown to become a charming and educational place to spend some time in Niagara Falls, New York. More than just a museum, the aquarium is a rescue center for injured sea animals and is home to seals, Humboldt penguins, and all kinds of fish.More
#7
Hard Rock Cafe Niagara Falls
Founded in 1996, the Hard Rock Cafe Niagara Falls USA is located just minutes from the iconic falls. Part of the global rock ‘n’ roll-themed restaurant chain, and one of two Hard Rock Cafes in the area, Hard Rock Cafe Niagara Falls USA offers traditional American fare, a full bar, and authentic music memorabilia.More
#8
Devil's Hole State Park
Devil’s Hole State Park is a peaceful place to relax after visiting thunderous Niagara Falls or when exploring the Niagara Gorge. The 42-acre (17-hectare) park has picnic areas, hiking trails, and fishing spots. Just north of Niagara Falls, New York, it overlooks the Devil’s Hole Rapids on the Niagara River and has views across to Canada.More
#9
Niagara Adventure Theater
Discover the history, legends, and stories behind Niagara Falls with a showing of Niagara: Legends of Adventure at the Niagara Adventure Theater. Featuring a state-of-the-art digital projection and surround sound system, the theater delivers an immersive movie experience and a great introduction to the majestic falls.More
#10
Terrapin Point
To take in the majesty of Niagara Falls, there is no better scenic perch than Terrapin Point. This overlook sits adjacent to Horseshoe Falls, so close that visitors come away damp from the mist that rises from the thundering water. Set on the US side of Niagara, the observation area is a must for unforgettable photos of the famous falls.More
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When to visit
While Niagara Falls cascades year-round, summer is the ideal time to view attractions such as Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds under sunny skies. Just be prepared to share the view with crowds and book hotels well in advance. Fall offers more elbow room plus harvest season events including the Niagara Homegrown Wine Festival and Oktoberfest.
Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
EDT (UTC -5)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English