Know Before You Go: Visiting Niagara Falls

Crowds flock to Niagara Falls during the summer months as the warm weather and misty breeze combine to keep you cool and comfortable outdoors. Winter is the opposite, as chilly temperatures can make for an uncomfortable visit. But, if you don’t mind bundling up, you can admire the mist creating a crust of ice that makes the Falls appear frozen.

Fall and spring can be touch-and-go weather-wise, but the seasonal foliage changes make for fantastic photo backdrops. However, year-round firework shows and colorful light shows make any nightfall at Niagara Falls magical, no matter the season.

Visiting the US side of Niagara Falls is a great way to experience this landmark attraction. However, hopping aboard The Maid of the Mist definitely tops the list of must-dos on New York’s side. This scenic boat tour takes you to the foot of the Falls and leaves you soaked with more than a smile.

The Cave of the Winds observation deck and wooden walkways also let you take slippery steps right up to the Bridal Veil Falls. Plus, free parking at the Schoellkopf Power Station leads right into the Niagara Gorge Trailhead, where you can gaze at the Falls from the water’s edge. A visit to Niagara’s Wax Museum of History is also a must. And if the weather's not great when you're there, the Seneca Casino and the Aquarium of Niagara are indoor activities to add to your must-do list.

The Maid of the Mist might let you see Niagara Falls from below, but Canada’s side houses the only backdoor to the Horseshoe Falls, Journey Behind the Falls which gets you up close and personal with the powerful, rushing water.

Also on the Canadian side, Queen Victoria Park is for walkers of all levels, offering easy paths and challenging trails. Meanwhile, for a bird’s-eye view of the area, take a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel at the popular tourist promenade, Clifton Hill.

For a special meal, dinner with a waterfall view awaits at the Skylon Tower revolving restaurant and observation deck. And for an indoor educational experience, visit the Niagara Falls History Museum.

Niagara Falls International Airport and Buffalo Niagara International are the closest airports on the American side, and Hamilton International Airport and Toronto Pearson International Airport are the nearest on the Canadian side. You can then rent a car or take a shuttle to Niagara Falls from any of the airports. Once there, a variety of city buses and taxis are an easy mode of transportation.

Many travelers also opt to walk or cycle the area thanks to accessible trails and a pedestrian/bike-friendly border crossing on the Rainbow Bridge. However, for a comprehensive and convenient excursion, taking a guided Niagara Falls tour is always going to the best best bet—options abound for both the Canadian side and the US side.

Insider tip: You can benefit from free trolley services on the New York side during the warmer months.

Both the American and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls offer their share of fun, which means it’s entirely possible to remain on one side of the border and still have a fulfilling vacation. Each side is home to an observation tower and parks with trails, and though the Canadian side is best for its panoramic views, the American side is favored by those who want to get as close as possible to the falls.

However, bringing your valid passport allows you the option to explore both sides of the Falls and experience each country’s unique attractions, vistas, and historical sites. So, while it's not needed, it could be a good idea if you want to experience the full majesty of the falls.

Packing for Niagara Falls should primarily reflect the season—bring layered, warm clothing in the winter months and breezy, light clothing in the summer months.

However, you should add a few evergreen items to your suitcase regardless of when you go. Comfortable clothing and reliable footwear are essential, even if you’re only meandering around town. Both sides are pedestrian-friendly, so you may walk more than expected (if only to snag that perfect photo).

Insider tip: You won’t regret packing waterproof or water-resistant clothing, especially if you’re visiting Maid of the Mist or Journey Behind the Falls.

Niagara Falls is accessible for people with disabilities on both the Canadian and American sides of the falls. All pedestrian paths throughout the park are wheelchair accessible.

For an all-in-one accessible experience at Niagara Falls, head for Goat Island on the New York side. The island is home to Terrapin Point, an accessible lookout with impressive, up-close views of Horseshoe Falls. You’ll also find the Cave of the Winds here, which has an elevator to an observation area at the base of Bridal Veil Falls.

• How many tourists visit Niagara Falls each year? Approximately 2 million people visit Niagara Falls each year. Aside from the falls, many people frequent the region for its wineries, amusement parks, historic sites, and more.

• Is Niagara Falls free to visit? Yes, Niagara Falls State Park is free to visit and it's open 365 days a year.

• How many days do you need to visit Niagara Falls? Two or three nights are recommended. Although you can see Niagara Falls in one day, it's wise to put some extra time aside to see the falls at different hours of the day, and to take advantage of local attractions, parks, and hiking trails.

• Which side of Niagara Falls is better to visit? Short answer ... it depends. While the American side is considered less developed, the Canadian side has a better view of Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the three waterfalls. It's for this reason that many consider the view of the falls from the Canadian side slightly better.