Niagara Falls has the highest water flow rate of any waterfall in the world – and it’s reachable as a weekend trip from many cities in the northeast of the United States! We spent one night on the Canadian side of the falls, but the New York side offers a close-up view, so we recommend doing both.
What to do at the Niagara Falls?
Cave of the Winds
Although the falls can be visited by boat (or helicopter if you are feeling adventurous), the best way to start your trip is to visit the Cave of the Winds on the New York side. You can acces it by parking on Goat Island and taking the elevator down into Niagara Gorge. Before you know it, you will be standing underneath the magnificent Bridal Veil Falls. An adult ticket is $21, and don’t forget to pack your raincoat!
Terrapin Point
After drying off, go to Terrapin Point, another great viewpoint of the falls. Other activities include the Aquarium of Niagara and the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center, but if you are tight on time (or money) there are plenty of free things to do once you get to the Canadian side.
Maid of the Mist
The Maid of the Mist voyage was closed when we visited Niagara last February, but it offers some of the best up-close views of the falls during a 20-minute boat ride along the river. Tours run every 15 minutes and an adult ticket costs $28. If you are visiting between May and November, this is a great activity to add to your list!
After you have gotten a good view of the falls from the American side of the border, it’s time to drive across the Rainbow Bridge to Canada!
Table Rock Centre
Begin your journey on the Canadian side of the falls with a walk along the pedestrian promenade, ending at the historic Table Rock Centre. Here, you can view the falls from above, and you’ll get to experience just how fast the water flows over the edge.
Journey Behind the Falls
Now that you’ve seen the falls from above, it’s time to descend 125 feet down to explore the tunnels below the falls. Afterward, take a journey back in time to learn all about how the first staircase was constructed down into the Niagara Gorge in 1832, allowing visitors to view the falls up close for the first time. An adult ticket costs $25 CAD, or you can choose the Wonder Pass, which includes multiple activities and transportation options for $49 CAD.
Dinner at the Red Chateau
We were a bit disappointed when it came to food options in Niagara. The main tourist area was filled with chain restaurants and fast food options, but we were set on finding a smaller place with a cozy vibe. We ended up making a reservation at the Red Chateau, and it is the number one restaurant we recommend you visit during your trip. The menu offers classic central European options like goulash and paprikash, and the owner cooks everything with fresh ingredients in her kitchen! Be sure to call before going, as they are closed on certain days. We visited in the off-season, and the owner opened up the restaurant just for us. We would go back to Niagara for this meal alone.
When you love stars and constellations, do not forget to check out Cherry Springs! The darkest spot in the Northern Hemisphere is just a few hours from here.