Dreaming of seeing Niagara Falls during a stay in New York? You'll be pleased to know it's entirely possible to experience these two iconic United States landmarks in a single day. How do you get there? What should you plan for? What are the must-see sites? How does the border crossing work to see the falls on the Canadian side? We answer all your questions in this practical guide!

Niagara Falls at a glance...

They need little introduction. Niagara Falls rank among the most breathtaking natural wonders on the planet. Formed over 12,000 years ago at the end of the ice age, the falls are located on the Niagara River, at the border between Canada and the États-Unis. The two countries share three waterfalls:

• Horseshoe Falls: named for their horseshoe shape, this section of Niagara Falls is on the Canadian side. It's the largest of the three;

• American Falls: these are the Niagara Falls located on American territory;

• Bridal Veil Falls: these smaller falls are also on the American side.

Niagara Falls attracts travelers from around the world not for its dimensions, but rather for its spectacular flow. Considered the most powerful falls in North America, they rank among the most impressive cascades in the world. To give you a sense of their intensity, here are some key figures...

Niagara Falls by the numbers:

• Niagara Falls reach a height of 57 meters at their highest point;

• They measure 945 meters across;

• Niagara Falls possess the world's largest water flow: over 2 million liters of water pour over them every second;

• The Niagara Falls State Park welcomes over 8 million visitors each year.

How to visit Niagara Falls from New York?

You're in New York and want to see Niagara Falls? Several options are available to you. Here are the different ways to reach Niagara Falls from New York:

Getting to Niagara Falls from New York by plane

Flying is the fastest way (though also the most expensive and least eco-friendly) to reach Niagara Falls from New York. Simply book a flight to Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), located 40 kilometers from Niagara Falls city center. Over 100 non-stop flights operate there daily. Flight time is around 1 hour 30 minutes.

Getting to Niagara Falls from New York by car

Planning to explore? Have plenty of time? Why not rent a car and embark on a road trip from New York to the famous Niagara Falls? It's an opportunity to enjoy the scenery as the route passes through Pennsylvania and the Finger Lakes region in central New York State. To reach Niagara Falls by car, follow the cross-country I-90 highway. Plan on 7 to 8 hours of driving to cover the 640 kilometers separating New York from the falls.

Getting to Niagara Falls from New York by bus

On a tight budget? The bus remains the most economical way to reach Niagara Falls. Numerous bus companies operate this route, including FlixBus, Greyhound, and New York Trailways. To reach Niagara Falls by bus from New York, plan on 8 to 10 hours of travel time (including rest stops).

Getting to Niagara Falls from New York by train

Train travel enthusiasts, take note: it's entirely possible to reach Niagara Falls by train from New York. Amtrak, the rail company, offers connecting service to the falls throughout the Northeastern États-Unis. You can depart New York and stop at the Niagara Falls Amtrak Station (NFL), located 8 kilometers from Niagara Falls city center. However, don't be in a hurry: the journey takes approximately 9 hours 30 minutes.

Good to know: how to get around on-site:

If you plan to reach Niagara Falls independently, note that Niagara Falls city offers multiple transportation options (shuttle, trolley, bike, taxi...) to reach various sites of interest in the region. More information on niagarafallsusa.com.

Taking an organized excursion to Niagara Falls from New York

Don't have the energy to organize on your own? Not sure where to start? The simplest way to visit Niagara Falls from New York is to choose an all-inclusive excursion. This way, you won't need to worry about anything and you won't risk getting lost! You have several options to choose from:

• A one-day Niagara Falls excursion from New York: you'll make the round trip by bus the same day, departing early in the morning (around 4 AM) and returning late in the evening. This is the ideal solution if you have limited time, and though tiring, it will allow you to see the must-see attractions at Niagara Falls;

• A multi-day Niagara Falls excursion from New York: consider this option if you want to take your time visiting the falls and surrounding sites. The advantage? You can enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics (travel, boat tour reservations, accommodation...).

To remember:

While most excursions offer similar circuits and activities, it's entirely possible to arrange a custom-designed excursion. Don't hesitate to share your wishes (however adventurous) and your budget so we can organize the trip of your dreams.

How long does the drive take from New York to Niagara Falls?

As mentioned earlier, the distance between New York and Niagara Falls is 640 kilometers. Plan on approximately 7 to 8 hours of driving by car, or slightly longer if you choose to travel by bus (excursion or not).

What to see and do on a Niagara Falls excursion?

Discover the must-see sites and main activities at Niagara Falls:

Goat Island

Goat Island ranks among the best vantage points for admiring Niagara Falls from below. Among the observation platforms not to be missed on Goat Island are:

Terrapin Point

Located on Goat Island, this free vantage point offers a sweeping view of Horseshoe Falls, the Canadian section of the falls, often considered the most beautiful.

Cave of the Winds

This site allows you to descend into the impressive Niagara gorges before reaching the Hurricane deck, where you can admire Bridal Veil Falls from below. The paid attraction begins with a 50-meter elevator descent into the gorge. The rest of the tour continues on wooden boardwalks to Bridal Veil Falls. The experience is worthwhile, as it gives you a real sense of the power of the falls.

Good to know:

A poncho will be provided so you can approach the falls without getting completely soaked.

Luna Island Point

Luna Island is a small 40-meter-wide island separating the American falls (American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls). It's therefore the perfect spot to get a panoramic view of both American sections of Niagara Falls. Access is via a pedestrian bridge from Goat Island.  

Prospect Point

Located in Niagara Falls State Park, this vantage point is undoubtedly the most famous of the falls. It offers views of the main American falls (American Falls) plunging over 30 meters high, with Horseshoe Falls in the background.

Observation Tower

Just next to Prospect Point stands an observation tower extending over the Niagara gorges. Standing 86 meters high, it's the only place where you can see all 3 falls at once (American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls).

Maid of the Mist

This is the most popular attraction with visitors! Maid of the Mist is a boat company, the only one offering boat tours to get up close to Niagara Falls. The cruise departs from the base of the observation tower (accessible by elevator).

Lasting approximately 30 minutes, the tour allows you to admire all 3 falls and takes visitors to the foot of the falls. The experience promises incredible sensations: you'll be surrounded by a misty cloud of water vapor shimmering with rainbow colors while being mesmerized by the roar of tons of water cascading around you.

Note that a poncho will be provided before the tour, and despite this, you'll come away thoroughly soaked.

To remember:

The Maid of the Mist cruise is only available between May and November. For the rest of the year, visitors who want to get closer views of the falls are invited to visit Goat Island and Cave of the Winds.

Illuminations and fireworks at Niagara Falls

If you plan to stay in the evening or spend the night at Niagara Falls, don't miss the illumination show and fireworks display.

When to see Niagara Falls illuminated?

Every evening at dusk, Niagara Falls light up with a thousand vibrant colors. Pink, yellow, blue, green... This light show creates a magical atmosphere at Niagara Falls.

When to see fireworks at Niagara Falls?

Fireworks are launched from Niagara Falls at several times throughout the year. For this year-end season, a 5-minute fireworks show will be held at 8 PM every Friday and Saturday through December 21, and nightly through January 5, 2025. Two special fireworks displays are also planned for New Year's Eve (at 8 PM and midnight).

For more information on upcoming fireworks dates at Niagara Falls, visit niagarafallsusa.com.

Crossing the border to see the Canadian falls

Want to get a closer look at Horseshoe Falls? You can absolutely cross the border to see Niagara Falls on the Canadian side. The simplest way to reach Niagara Falls in Canada is to use the Rainbow Bridge, either on foot or by car.

Do you need a visa to see Niagara Falls on the Canadian side?

When you cross the Rainbow Bridge, you'll go through border controls. No visa is required for French nationals. However, you must present a valid passport.

For your information, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for French nationals arriving in Canada by air. This is not the case here since you'll be crossing the border by land.

From there, you can visit various viewpoints for Horseshoe Falls such as:

• Table Rock;

• Element of the Falls;

• Journey Behind the Falls (to be at the base of the falls and behind them by passing through tunnels);

• Skylon Tower (a 160-meter-high tower).

You can also take a cruise to get closer views of the falls aboard the Hornblower Niagara Cruises Boat Tour or take an aerial cable car (the Whirlpool Aero Car) for a view from above.

Did you know?

Want an unforgettable experience during your visit? Why not treat yourself to a helicopter tour of Niagara Falls? Available on both the American and Canadian sides, this activity will let you see the full extent of Niagara Falls while avoiding the crowds of tourists!

What to pack and how to dress for Niagara Falls?

Wondering what to pack for a visit to Niagara Falls? Here's what you should bring:

• Good waterproof and slip-resistant walking shoes or rain boots;

• A waterproof bag to protect your belongings;

• Comfortable, waterproof clothing suited to the season: it can be very cold in winter so plan for layers if you're visiting then;

• A change of clothes to pack in your bag if needed;

• A poncho or rain cape: most paid attractions provide one, but it's better to have a few extra for independent visits;

• Rain protection covers for your camera and a waterproof pouch for your phone;

• Snacks and a picnic: like many tourist destinations, restaurants and fast food are quite expensive.

What's the best time to visit Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls can be visited year-round. Obviously, each season has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Seeing Niagara Falls in summer

For maximum sunshine, summer is the best time to visit Niagara Falls. It's also peak tourist season: expect plenty of crowds. If you're traveling in summer, be sure to book your excursion in advance!

Seeing Niagara Falls in spring and fall

The shoulder seasons offer a good alternative for visiting Niagara Falls with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. In spring, the site bursts with color thanks to blooming gardens, while autumn's warm tones create picturesque landscapes.

Seeing Niagara Falls in winter

Winter is the ideal season for visiting Niagara Falls without huge crowds (though visitors are present in large numbers year-round). It's also when attractions and accommodations are least expensive.

The downside? Some attractions close and you won't be able to see everything. The Maid of the Mist cruise, for example, closes from November through May.

Another consideration: while snow and ice create beautiful scenic views, winter can be very cold. Best to avoid this season if you're sensitive to cold.

Good to know:

No matter the season, we recommend visiting Niagara Falls on a weekday (weekends tend to be much more crowded).

Need inspiration to organize your trip? Discover our itinerary from New York to Niagara Falls or contact us! We'd be delighted to help you plan your stay according to your preferences and budget.

Also discover all the excursions to do around New York.