There are quite a few places on my bucket list that I plan to visit in the coming years. Niagara Falls in Buffalo, New York, used to be one of those places.
Located between the border of the U.S. and Canada, Niagara Falls was formed more than 12,000 years ago.
Fun Facts about Niagara Falls
- If an item was to fall into the falls, it would drop over 160 feet.
- About 6 million cubic feet of water is moved per minute.
- Niagara Falls has three waterfalls.
- The largest of the three waterfalls is named Horseshoe Falls, and it is mostly on the Canadian side of the falls.
- The other two, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, are on the U.S. side of the falls.
My Visit
When I arrived at the falls, I made a conscious effort to take a moment and take in everything.
I did not want to immediately get lost in taking pictures and videos.
Afterwards, I got busy with capturing my memories on camera. So, I took a million photos. Just kidding! I did take a lot of photos though.
Walking around, I came across the statue of Nikola Tesla. Engraved on his stone were the words Inventor of alternating current induction motor.
I don’t have a broad understanding of this topic, but I later learned that his discoveries advanced the U.S. and the rest of the world into the modern industrial era.
I also came across an Arch that leads to the Adams Hydroelectric Plant. I have a thing for Arch’s. One of my goals is to one day visit every famous arch ever built!
When I was in Barcelona, I visited the Arc de Triomf. In New York, I visited the Washington Square Arch. I will continue to document this journey.
Admission and Visiting
Admission into Niagara Falls State Park is free.
However, there are parts that require a fee to enter. For example, the Cave of the Winds and the Maid of the Mist boat ride, both require separate tickets.
The Cave of the Winds allows visitors walk along the wooden decks that are at the base of Bridal Veil Falls.
The Maid of the Mist boat ride takes visitors to the base of the falls.
I did not explore the Cave of the Winds or the Maid of the Mist boat ride on this trip. Hopefully, I can do so another time.
The park never sleeps. It is open 24 hours a day.
I was told that if you visit the falls at nighttime, it is illuminated in various colors. Now that’s a sight I would love to see!
Tips for Visiting
It was an extremely cold January day when I visited. Don’t ask me why I picked that time but there I was!
So, I would say dress for the weather. Bring a raincoat or waterproof jacket to protect you from the mist even if you visit in better weather conditions.
You should also bring your own snacks and refreshments but if you are unable to, you can always grab something to eat from the International Food Court, which opens at 9 AM and stays open until 10 PM daily.
Getting to Niagara Falls
I arrived by air through Buffalo Niagara International Airport and rented a car shortly after.
I drove for about 33 minutes (roughly 26 miles) to Niagara Falls State Park.
Although that was the route I took, there are other options for getting there. For example, you can fly in through Niagara Falls International Airport or Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Parking in Niagara Falls State Park
When I was driving to the park, I was a little concerned about the parking situation. But when I arrived at the park, I was thrilled to see that there were several parking options.
Depending on when you decide to visit, my only tip for parking is to research because I did not go during a peak period. It was more off season.
Nearby Attractions
There are other places to see around Niagara Falls. You can also plan to visit the Niagara Falls Observation Tower, Goat Island, Niagara Gorge Discovery Center and Whirlpool State Park.
It is also a good idea to drive around Buffalo. It is a beautiful place with very friendly people.
Best Time to Visit
I did some research before I decided to travel and almost all of them mentioned that Summer (June through August) is the best time to visit.
However, I visited in Winter and honestly, I really enjoyed my experience. Yes, it was freezing but it was not crowdy.
So, I would say the best time to visit is anytime that works for you. If you are not someone who can handle the cold, then maybe make some summer plans.
Have you visited Niagara Falls? I would love to hear about your experience!
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