How to Experience the Best of Niagara Falls in a Day Tour from New York

Going on a holiday in New York? Make the most out of your trip by heading to the iconic Niagara Falls.

Trade the city’s cloud-scraping buildings for the incredible natural scenery up north. At the Niagara Falls State Park, you’re not going to see just one waterfall, but three massive cascading falls. Since the group of waterfalls has a horseshoe-like shape, you can stand in the middle of the curve and be surrounded by nothing but powerful torrents.

To help you have a stress-free and seamless experience, we’ve done our homework and compiled everything you need to know before you go on a Niagara Falls tour.

There are different ways to reach Niagara Falls from New York. You can rent a car and drive to the state park yourself. While it allows the greatest flexibility, it’s also a bit lengthy. The drive usually takes seven to eight hours, depending on traffic conditions. Another option is the train, which offers awesome views along the way. Just make sure you bring a book since the journey can take up to nine hours due to multiple stops throughout upstate New York.

By far, the most convenient way to get to the falls is by joining a Niagara Falls tour from New York. With everything already taken care of, all you have to do is show up and bring your camera to capture the memories. Thanks to the bus’ wide glass windows, you can take in the views of the Appalachian Mountains and the small towns along the way. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. 

The tour offers two options: transportation only and a complete tour with a guide and the works.

The transportation-only package is perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the scenery at their own pace. Since you’re in control of your visit, you can pick and choose which attractions to explore, and activities to try, and take your time shooting photos. Design your itinerary and enjoy the day your way. The tour costs US$253 per adult and US$229 per child aged 3 to 11.

If you want to learn more about the falls straight from an expert, opt for the complete Niagara Falls tour. As you explore the park, your guide will tell you about the site’s rich history and the best locations for photos. You’ll also visit various attractions depending on the season and weather conditions. The tour costs US$276 per adult and $266 per child aged 3 to 11.

You’ll begin your Niagara Falls tour in front of the Lids Store in Times Square. Board the bus and travel north. Since the trip takes around seven hours, you can unwind and watch as the towering buildings change into trees and mountains. You’ll also make a stop along the way so you can stretch your legs and buy some snacks.

For visitors on the transportation-only tour, you’ll get to explore the area at your own time upon arrival at the Niagara Falls State Park. Grab a meal at one of the nearby restaurants, where you can soak in the views while savoring a hearty meal. Enjoy some of the park’s experiences on offer, from the exciting zipline above the falls to the Journey Behind the Falls, which provides views below and behind the falls. Just remember to get back to the bus in time!

As for the Niagara Falls tour, you’ll follow your guide around the sprawling park as they explain its fascinating history and quirks. If you’re visiting from April to October, you’ll also enjoy a Maid of the Mist boat tour. As you get close to the falls, you’ll get a firsthand look at how powerful the torrents are.

For tours from November to March, you’ll get to see the falls in a different light from the Cave of the Winds thanks to viewpoints next to the cascades. Depending on conditions, it might be changed to visit Terrapin Point, where you can see just how tall and commanding Niagara Falls are.