24 Unforgettable Hours in Niagara Falls, New York

Hey guys, can I let you in on a secret? I’ve been itching to see Niagara Falls since I was a little girl! Who wouldn’t want to visit this fantastic place after seeing it on The Price is Right? Well, guess what? My dream finally came true when I got to go to Niagara Falls for a travel conference. And let me tell you, it was everything I hoped for and more! Here is how to spend 24 unforgettable hours in Niagara Falls, the dreamy city you’ve heard about your whole life.

Niagara Falls Fun Facts: Water from four of the Five Great Lakes (minus Ontario) flows over Niagara Falls. It then travels to Lake Ontario, followed by the St. Lawrence River, which empties into the Atlantic Ocean.

Viewing the Incredible Falls Via Legendary Tours

First, you must see the falls up close and personal. It’s a must-do! The best way to do that is by taking the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour; you get to wear those adorable blue ponchos and rubber sandals.

This scenic ride has been going strong since 1846. Boats hold 600 passengers. 

The ride starts and ends at Niagara Falls State Park but crosses into Ontario, Canada, for just a wee bit. You’ll get some incredible views and probably get a little wet, but hey, that’s all part of the fun! 

And did you know this was America’s first state park?

After you’ve taken in the falls, check out the Cave of the Winds tour at Bridal Veil Falls. It’s separate from the boat tour but worth it. You’ll get to walk right up to the falls on these wooden platforms and snap some fabulous pics.

Waterfalls you’ll check off are Bridal Veil, American, and Horseshoe (which is in Canada).

Grabbing a Meal or Two in Niagara Falls

Now, let’s talk about food. If you’re into Indian cuisine, try the lunch buffet at Zaika. They’ve got a bunch of yummy main dishes, veggie sides, and plenty of options for vegetarians, too. And don’t even get me started on their desserts – the Carrot Kheer and Rasmalai are to die for! 

Zaika has free parking and a noteworthy happy hour.

But wait, there’s more! Did you know that Niagara Falls has its very own Anchor Bar? Yep, the same place that invented buffalo wings! You can get your wings in all sorts of flavors, from mild to suicidal (if you’re feeling brave).

I like to get mine on a salad, but you do you!

A Bonus Attraction Right Up My Alley

If you’re feeling lucky, check out the glitzy Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. They’ve got a ton of slots (nearly 4000), poker, table games, and some pretty cool restaurants and shops. 

Don’t forget to grab some Timbits from Tim Horton’s while you’re there – just don’t call them donut holes.

Overnighting in Niagara Falls

For a place to crash, I highly recommend the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel. It’s close to the falls and downtown, and the rooms are nice and spacious. Plus, you get some pretty sweet views from the windows. 

And if you’re in the mood for a drink, the swanky lobby bar is definitely worth checking out. Kudos to Doubletree for having in-room mini-fridges.

Niagara Falls: An Iconic American City

So there you have it, folks – 24 jam-packed hours in Niagara Falls, NY! It may have taken me 50 years, but it was worth the wait. If you haven’t been, I recommend curating your road trip to Niagara Falls, New York, today.

Thanks to Destination Niagara Falls USA for hosting my visit. As always, opinions are 100% mine and unbiased.

Read more of our New York posts: 

The Best Things to Do in The Catskills 

A Winter Getaway to Lake George