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Niagara Falls marks the point where the Niagara River, draining Lake Erie toward Lake Ontario, plunges over a cliff on the border between New York and Ontario. The American side includes the American Falls and the smaller Bridal Veil Falls, and it is protected by Niagara Falls State Park, established in 1885 as the oldest state park in the United States. Its landscaped paths were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux.
Prospect Point and its Observation Tower put visitors right beside the edge of the American Falls, and from there the Maid of the Mist boats push into the spray at the base. Cave of the Winds leads along wooden decks below Bridal Veil Falls. Goat Island separates the falls and connects to Luna Island and the Three Sisters Islands, where rapids rush past, while Terrapin Point faces the Horseshoe Falls. Downstream, Whirlpool State Park offers gorge trails, and the Aquarium of Niagara, the Underground Railroad Heritage Center and the Niagara Power Vista add indoor stops. Lewiston and Artpark sit farther north along the river.
A day covers the main viewpoints, but staying longer allows gorge hikes and quieter mornings. Summer brings crowds and boat tours; winter ice can be striking. Crossing to Canada requires a passport.
WiserMap travel guideNiagara Falls New York Cave of the Winds and Goat IslandPlan a trip to Niagara Falls, New York, with Goat Island, Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist, the gorge trails, Old Fort Niagara and tips on when to go.Read the guide
Prospect Point sits at the edge of the American Falls in Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the United States. The Observation Tower juts out over the gorge with views of all three falls and is where you board the Maid of the Mist. Tip: a small fee applies for the tower.
A viewpoint at the western tip of Goat Island, right at the edge of the Horseshoe Falls, where you can feel the spray and see the full curve of the falls. Rainbows are common on sunny afternoons. Tip: it is a short walk from the Goat Island parking lot, and it is open year round.
Goat Island separates the American and Horseshoe falls. Small Luna Island sits between the American and Bridal Veil falls, and the Three Sisters Islands, linked by footbridges, look over the rushing upper rapids. Tip: walk the loop path to see them all, or ride the park trolley.
Every night the falls are lit in changing colors by powerful lights, and fireworks are launched over the water on many summer evenings and holidays. The views are good from Prospect Point and the park paths. Tip: check the schedule online, as fireworks times vary by season.
The famous boat tour that has carried visitors to the foot of the falls since 1846. Boats leave from the Observation Tower, pass the American Falls and sail into the mist of the Horseshoe Falls. Ponchos are provided. Tip: it runs from spring to fall, and expect to get wet anyway.
An attraction on Goat Island where an elevator takes visitors down into the gorge, and wooden decks lead to the base of Bridal Veil Falls. On the Hurricane Deck, the spray feels like a tropical storm. Tip: ponchos and sandals are provided; the decks are rebuilt each spring after winter ice.
A park above the Niagara Whirlpool, where the river makes a sharp turn and forms a giant swirling pool. Trails and steep stairs descend into the gorge to the edge of the class 5 rapids. Tip: the lower gorge trails are rocky and demanding, so wear good shoes and bring water.
A museum in the former customhouse at the train station telling the story of freedom seekers who crossed the Niagara River into Canada, and the local people who helped them. Exhibits include personal stories. Tip: it is a short walk from the falls and takes around an hour.
The visitor center of the Niagara Power Project in Lewiston, one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the United States. It has free interactive exhibits on hydropower and an outdoor deck high above the gorge. Tip: entry is free, and the view is especially fine in autumn.
A fort at the mouth of the Niagara River on Lake Ontario, with buildings dating back to 1726 including the French Castle. Costumed guides demonstrate musket firing and soldier life from the colonial wars. Tip: it is in Fort Niagara State Park, about 30 minutes north of the falls.
A small aquarium near the falls with harbor seals, sea lions, Humboldt penguins and fish from the Great Lakes. Its exhibit on the Great Lakes ecosystem explains the life of the region's lakes and rivers. Tip: catch one of the sea lion training sessions held through the day.
A historic village on the lower Niagara River with shops, restaurants and Underground Railroad history. Artpark, on the edge of the gorge, is a state park known for its summer concerts on an outdoor stage and walking trails. Tip: check the Artpark schedule for summer concerts.
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