A group of three waterfalls on the border of Canada and the US is one of the most significant North American tourists and natural attractions. The power and the amount of water are mind-boggling.
Depending on where you are coming from, the time to see the Falls, enjoy boat trips, and other attractions may vary. Perhaps it would be best to browse the accommodation and take your time visiting the gorgeous Falls.
The waterfalls are situated on the Niagara River, which carries water from Lake Erie into Lake Ontario.
Horseshoe Falls is the largest one, with more than 90 percent of water going through spectacularly shaped waterfalls on the border of Ontario, Canada, and the state of New York in the US.
Smaller American and Bridal Veil Falls are in the US territory. Rather large, Goat Island separates Bridal Veil and Horseshoe Falls.
The height is not the most impressive thing about Niagara Falls. It is the flow rate and the amount of water that flows towards Lake Ontario.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Niagara Falls?
Summer is the best time to visit Niagara Falls because of the high temperatures and availability of the attractions. The downside is the crowd and higher accommodation rates in the vicinity. From June to August, there is a free shuttle that drives visitors between the attractions.
Other seasons have some advantages. Although the temperatures are lower, spring and fall have fewer tourists, so you might have a better experience. The area is known for its high-class wineries, so that you can have great visits in the fall months.
The winter has fewer visitors, and many attractions are not operating. The room rates are affordable, though.
Do You Get Wet at Niagara Falls?
If you did not get wet, you probably have not experienced Niagara Falls to its fullest offer. There are multiple viewpoints, and most of them will keep you dry.
You can watch the Falls from the Niagara Falls State Park in Canada or Niagara Parkway in the US. There is an observation point at the crest line of the Horseshoe Falls where the spray from the immense amount of water will get you a bit wet.
Probably the best experience at the Falls is the Hornblower cruise that sails by American and Bridal Veil Falls and comes close to the Horseshoe Falls, where in one moment, you will be surrounded by mighty Falls from three sides.
The visitors get a rain poncho, but you will probably be soaking wet, at least your feet.
Another attraction that will get you wet is Journey behind the Falls. Tourists can observe the Horeshoe Falls near the base. You can reach it by a tunnel that also has holes for watching from behind the waterfall.
Road trip to Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls are around 7 hours’ drive from New York, or shorter, but still interesting 120 kilometers from Toronto.
There are a couple of must-see places in Niagara Falls proximity. Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake is a historic site in the War of 1812 between the US and Britain. It was heavily damaged in 1813. The Niagara Park Commission opened a reconstructed location in 1940.
Take time and visit Jackson Triggs or Pellar Estates vineyards. There are guided tours, wine tasting, and you can even find accommodation. The area is well known for great wines.
There are a couple of ways to watch Whirpool Gorge. You can pool over while driving from Niagara Glen to Niagara Falls, or you can take the cable car that goes over the river, which is much more exciting.
The Floral Clock is the largest in the world, and one of the photos stops for most visitors.
Other notable places you might want to see when going on a Niagara Falls road trip are Buffalo, Letchworth State Park on the way from New York, Kinzua Bridge State Park, impressive Botanical Gardens, and historic sites like McFarland House, Laura Secord house or Brock’s Monument.
What to wear to Niagara Falls?
All of the boat cruises like Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist will give you a waterproof poncho, but that might not be enough to keep you dry.
In summer months, it would be best to wear flip-flops to the boat, that can dry fast. In spring and fall, pack waterproof boots and trousers that will keep you dry in wet Falls conditions.
Whatever you wear, it will get wet, so choose clothes that dry fast. In winter, it gets cold and snowy around Niagara Falls, so pack warm clothes, boots, and gloves.
Before packing your clothes and accessories, make sure you have all the paperwork for visiting the US ready.
Bottom line
Niagara Falls are an impressive natural wonder that attracts more than 14 million visitors every year. Prepare your water-resistant camera and dive into the immense power of nature.
To answer the question from the title, you will need a couple of hours to see all three waterfalls. But dedicate at least three days for Niagara Falls and all the attractions around it. There are a lot of fun activities, historical and natural attractions around the Falls.