Why Go to Niagara Falls
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Niagara Falls is one of the great natural wonders of North America, and seeing it in person is unforgettable. Watching the powerful Niagara River thunder over the edge, up to about 188 feet at the American Falls area and in a massive curve at Horseshoe Falls, you'll understand why daredevils were once tempted to go over in barrels. The roar can be heard from far away, and the mist creates rainbows on sunny days.
Get up close by boat on the Maid of the Mist from the U.S. side or Niagara City Cruises from Canada, and walk behind the falls at the Cave of the Winds or Journey Behind the Falls. Admire the view from Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the U.S., and see the falls lit up in color at night, with fireworks in summer. Niagara has long been a honeymoon favorite, and beyond the bright lights and attractions, the area is wonderfully romantic, with wineries along the Niagara Wine Trail, the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.
The Canadian side offers some of the best views, so bring a passport. I'll plan your stay, boat tours and wine country visits.
BEST FOR
Families, nature lovers, photographers and first-time visitors
BEST MONTHS
May–October
EXPLORE
On the Canadian side, Fallsview overlooks Horseshoe Falls and Clifton Hill is an entertainment area; Niagara Falls State Park anchors the New York side.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Niagara Falls
North America › Ontario & Quebec › USA / Canada › NY / Ontario
Powerful waterfalls and memorable gorge viewpoints
National Parks & Nature
Canada
Waterfalls
Scenic
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Check which side of the border your activities are on before buying tickets or planning a walking route.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Choose a permitted overlook and expect heavy spray; guard electronic devices.
Horseshoe Falls
The powerful curved waterfall dominates views from the Canadian side.
Enjoy viewpoints from approved paths and never cross safety barriers.
American Falls
A major section of the falls visible from the U.S. and Canadian waterfronts.
This narrower cascade lies between the larger falls; look for it from designated viewing areas.
Bridal Veil Falls
A smaller adjoining cascade on the American side.
Boat excursions are seasonal; wear provided rain gear and confirm the operating side and departure point.
Maid of the Mist
A seasonal boat ride from the U.S. side offers a close view of the falls.
Expect damp walkways and reserve the Canadian-side experience when available.
Journey Behind the Falls
A Canadian-side experience brings visitors to viewing areas near the Horseshoe Falls.
A Canadian-side hotel with dramatic views across the Niagara gorge and easy access to Fallsview attractions.
Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa
Fallsview, Ontario
Hotel Tags
A centrally located hotel near Clifton Hill with views toward the American and Horseshoe Falls.
Sheraton Fallsview Hotel
Clifton Hill, Ontario
Hotel Tags
A high-rise hotel connected to the Fallsview entertainment district and close to the waterfalls.
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites
Fallsview, Ontario
Hotel Tags
A full-service American-side resort a short walk from Niagara Falls State Park.
Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino
Niagara Falls, New York
Hotel Tags
A resort-style hotel offering a quieter base within reach of the waterfront promenade.
DoubleTree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton
Fallsview, Ontario
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Niagara Falls
High 48°F · Low 35°F · Rain 3.3 in
The Winter Festival of Lights begins.
Late spring to early fall offers the broadest visitor attractions; winter provides icy scenery but some tours close.
Best Times to Visit Niagara Falls
WHEN TO GO
06
Parking and Regional Transit
Parking can be expensive near the falls. Check each country’s parking options, shuttle service and walking routes before arrival.
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Walking Between Viewpoints
Many viewpoints are linked by pathways, but the distance between major U.S. and Canadian sites is substantial.
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Niagara Parks WEGO
Canadian WEGO visitor buses connect selected Niagara Parks attractions. Confirm seasonal stops and ticket validity.
03
U.S.–Canada Border Crossings
Attractions are on both sides of the international border. Carry the required documents and allow time for inspection.
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Planning tip
Check which side of the border your activities are on before buying tickets or planning a walking route.
01
Arrival and getting around
Walk between central viewpoints; local transit and rideshare help reach farther attractions. Crossing the border requires appropriate documents.
Walk between central viewpoints; local transit and rideshare help reach farther attractions. Crossing the border requires appropriate documents.
Getting Around Niagara Falls