Niagara Falls from the U.S. and Canada

On this week's Just the Tip we're taking you to the iconic Niagara Falls region - both the U.S. and Canadian side, and sharing all the details to make your visit smooth.

We're taking you to Niagara Falls and sharing all the details to visit from either side of the border.

What is Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is a group of three powerful waterfalls—Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls—located on the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA, known for their breathtaking beauty and natural wonder.

You can visit the falls from both the US and Canadian sides but you do need a passport to cross over. The view is substantially better from the Canadian side though.

Things you can enjoy from either side:

• This year they did a nightly firework show from mid may to mid October at 10 pm, the fireworks last about 5 minutes long.
• The falls are also illuminated at night with color. Solid red, solid blue, solid white, rainbow colors. The illumination of lights if from sunset to around 2 am
• You can also access boat tours from either side-
• Check out our recommended Viator activities to do in Niagara Falls

What is there to do on the American side?

• Visit Niagara Falls State Park- The park is recognized as the oldest state park in the United State &, contains the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and a portion of the Horseshoe Falls.
• From the American side you can visit the Observation Tower- provides the only panoramic view of all three Niagara Falls, including the American Falls
• Take the Maid of the Mist boat tour- takes you into the horseshoe to feel the power and mist of the waterfall
• Explore Cave of the Wind- where you descend into Niagara Gorge and onto a series of wooden walkways that will bring you the “Hurricane Deck” where you are within feet of the crashing Bridal Veil Falls and surrounded by tropical storm conditions
• Hike along scenic trails in the state park or enjoy a picnic in Niagara Falls State Park.

Where to Stay on the U.S. side?

Hyatt Place Niagara Falls or Red Coach Inn

Can you pay to park on the U.S. side?
Yes, there is a fee to park in the designated parking lots at Niagara Falls State Park on the U.S. side.- Cost is about $10. It’s free after a certain time of day, so when we went to the firework show at night it was free to park

What to do on the Canadian side?

• Journey Behind the Falls- descend 125 ft. by elevator, where a short tunnel gives access to two outdoor observation decks and two portals located directly behind the Falls.
• The Tunnel at the Niagara Falls Power Station- Travel 180 ft below ground through a 2,200 ft long tunnel and step out onto an observation deck at the river's edge
• explore the Butterfly Conservatory, enjoy the view from Skylon Tower, zipline, walk along the Niagara Parkway, or visit the Niagara SkyWheel.

Where to Stay on the Canadian side?

Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa or Tower Hotel at Fallsview

Can you pay to park on the Canadian side?
Yes, there is a fee to park in various lots near the falls and attractions on the Canadian side. Parking was about $35 CAD and was a flat fee for all day

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