20 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls New York + Hotels + MAP

Spending time at the American portion of Niagara Falls is the ideal option for those seeking to not only admire these magnificent cascades but also participate in outdoor activities. The US side of Niagara Falls is less crowded than the Niagara Falls in Canada, which is reputed to provide the most picturesque perspectives of the Horseshoe Falls. Nonetheless, the things one can do in Niagara Falls, New York ensure visitors will be quite satisfied with choosing this part of the falls.

Moreover, there is no doubt that it’s among the most popular activities to engage in New York state. The falls are along the north side of the Niagara River, at the Niagara Falls State Park, the most vital place to visit in Niagara Falls, NY, and the oldest state park in the USA.

We visited it during the month of July and scheduled this half-day activity that incorporated the core Niagara Falls New York destinations like the Cave of the Winds and the Maid of the Mist. After that, we relocated to the Canadian side, where we remained overnight and watched the fireworks display. If you can also visit both locations, check out our ultimate guide to exploring Niagara Falls.

In this article, focusing solely on the American side, I will share the top 20 Niagara Falls attractions with you!

1. Terrapin Point at Goat Island, the best place to see the Horseshoe Falls from the US side

No one lives on Goat Island, but it’s a popular place with tourists for a good reason. It’s where you’ll find Terrapin Point, one of the best places to see Niagara Falls’ USA side, particularly Horseshoe Falls.

Terrapin Point is the main viewpoint from Goat Island located at the western end. It’s an incredible sight to see in Niagara Falls, USA because you obtain such an unusual perspective. While standing by the railing, one can look downward at the majestic Horseshoe Falls descending below. You can also survey the Niagara Gorge in the distance and see the remainder of the falls.

From 1833 to 1873, the Terrapin Tower lighthouse stood at this scenic point, but it was detonated after people protested that it interrupted views of the falls.

Goat Island lies in the Niagara River and is easily accessible via two bridges. The entire area is full of woodlands and forests, as well as a network of walking paths. You can also find parking lots here.

If you’re thinking about what else there is to do at Niagara Falls, NY, spend some time in nature exploring the nature trails. Or visit the Cave of the Winds attraction, which I’ll discuss next.

2. Cave of the Winds, one of the top-rated Niagara Falls attractions in NY

The Cave of the Winds is a notable attraction at Niagara Falls located in New York. Visitors can experience this if they enjoy thrills. In the 1830s, explorers came across a natural grotto behind Bridal Veil Falls, and people started touring the region.

It wasn’t until the 1920s that the attraction took tourists around the front of Bridal Veil Falls instead of behind it. Either way, it’s quite thrilling and one of the coolest activities to do at Niagara Falls, New York in the summer season.

When visitors first arrive at the Cave of the Winds, they can explore the exhibit called The World Changed Here Pavilion, which is indoors and uses multimedia to describe the history of the falls. In this exhibit, people will also learn about Nikola Tesla designing the original hydroelectric power plant at Niagara Falls that used the energy from the water. The exhibition traces how this event altered the natural landscape and the advancement of technology.

Once you`re prepared to descend 175 feet to the base of the Niagara Gorge, you`ll wear your poncho and take an elevator down. From there, you can walk out onto the deck and get as close to the waterfalls as you like. It`s called Cave of the Winds for a valid reason; it gets very windy! The roar of the water can produce hurricane-force conditions, bringing about winds up to 68 mph.

The most intense part of the attraction is the Hurricane Deck. Here, you’ll stand just a few feet from the thundering waterfalls. It`s definitely a fun activity to do in Niagara Falls, NY.

Remember that timed tickets are necessary to traverse the Cave of the Winds walkway. The walkway is only accessible during the summer months, yet the indoor pavilion operates year-round. This attraction was part of the half-day tour we embarked on, which also featured the subsequent attraction.

3. Maid of the Mist, the best Niagara Falls boat tour from New York

Another adrenaline-fuelled activity to do at Niagara Falls, NY is to take the Maid of the Mist. The ride takes you through the Niagara Gorge on the American side, although it crosses over into Canada for a few minutes.

Experiencing the magnificence of Niagara Falls from the upper decking of the Maid of the Mist boat ride may provide the optimum vantage point. Hundreds of thousands of gallons crash over the rim of the Horseshoe Falls with each passing second, giving onlookers up close views of the cascading water.

The original ferry that linked Toronto and New York City in 1846 was a steamer called the Maid of the Mist, but it was replaced many years ago. Throughout the decades, numerous renowned individuals have taken the exciting trip to witness the magnificence and power of the falls, such as Marilyn Monroe, Stephen Hawking, Sylvester Stallone, and Princess Diana.

This boat experience on the Niagara Falls waterway is a must-do attraction in the New York region that many sightseers enjoy. Tours depart at regular intervals, usually every quarter of an hour, and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes. It is worthwhile mentioning that this cruise is also included as part of a half-day sightseeing itinerary.

4. Niagara Falls Helicopter Tour from the American side

For a fully unique way to view the falls, I strongly advise a Niagara Falls helicopter tour from the American side.

This scenic trip takes off just a couple miles from the falls and hovers as near as possible to all three waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls.

As you lift off from the downtown helipad, you’ll ascend into the sky and fly over the majestic falls. Observe the Niagara River from a completely new angle and capture spectacular photos of the gorge and rapids.

You’ll also fly past the Rainbow Bridge, Goat Island, and Three Sisters Islands. Take in the stunning scenery and large bodies of swirling blue water from 2500 feet up. On bright days, you’re likely to see colorful bands against the spray emanating from the falls, truly a magnificent spectacle.

Argentina possesses one of the most diverse landscapes across South America, so fully exploring everything requires dedication. A popular tourist destination is San Carlos de Bariloche within Nahuel Huapi National Park, Argentina`s largest protected area. Additionally, the city serves as an excellent starting point for this day excursion along the Road of the Seven Lakes

5. Prospect Point and the American Falls Viewing Area

The postcards you commonly see depicting the view from Niagara Falls, New York typically show the views from Prospect Point. That is because it’s the most popular spot to see the American Falls and Niagara Rapids.

From the viewing platform, you can watch the Niagara River decrease 50 feet as it hurries closer to the edge of the American Falls. From there, the water cascades over the cliff as clouds of mist arise into the air. The entire scene is something that must be seen to be believed.

Plan to spend some time here to take in all the sights. There are a few viewing sites, but they can get crowded. However, there are benches where you can rest until a space clears up. The state renovated the area in 2013, so it has improved walkways.

Prospect Point serves as a central hub for several activities available on the American side of Niagara Falls. For example, this is where you can find the entry point for Maid of the Mist, the Adventure Theater, and the Visitors Center. This is also where you’ll find the Niagara Observation Tower, which will be discussed next.

6. Niagara Falls Observation Tower, the best view of Niagara Falls from NY

Niagara Falls Observation Tower is without a doubt, the best way to view Niagara Falls from New York. It’s also known as the Prospect Point Observation Tower because it’s at the Prospect Point viewing area.

The 282-foot Tower is impossible to miss and provides unrivaled views of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. You can step onto the extended platform, which juts out over Niagara Gorge, and get stunning perspectives of the Horseshoe Falls in the distance.

The Tower also serves as the departure point for the famous Maid of the Mist boat tour. An elevator transports sightseers to the bottom of the waterfall so they can board a boat. However, anyone can descend to the bottom of the Tower to gain a special view of the Niagara Gorge and falls.

From here, one can see the moss-covered boulders and feel the light spray of mist on your face. This area is known as the “Crow’s Nest”, and although it may look rugged, there is a clear pathway leading to a flight of stairs, so there is nothing to worry about. Moreover, it`s the best place to view Niagara Falls USA with fresh perspective. For nature lovers and bird watchers, this area is also a prime location to spot bald eagles or peregrine falcons, so keep your eyes open!

The Tower has no entrance fee during winter but charges $1.25 otherwise, though Maid of the Mist ticket holders visit free. The extended deck accommodates weather conditions while the Tower remains open year-round

7. Luna Island and the Bridal Veil Falls, another great place to visit in the US Niagara Falls

If you’re seeking where to go in Niagara Falls, USA, you don’t have to search far to find Luna Island. This tiny cliffside land mass is wedged between the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Although small in size, it provides spectacular views unlike anywhere else.

Luna Island is only 350 feet long and 130 feet wide and sits at the northernmost point of Goat Island. The island’s cliffs consist of thick dolomite limestone, and the area was once covered with white cedar trees and bushes. It’s still a beautiful place, especially if you go at sunset.

What makes Luna Island such a striking place are the wonderful vistas available from the pedestrian bridge. As one stands there and peers over the railing, they will be amazed by the rushing rapids of the Niagara River below. If one glances downwards, they can survey the Bridal Veil Falls and perhaps see tourists at the popular Cave of the Winds location. It is truly a sight to behold and a unique activity to partake in on Niagara Falls’ NY side.

8. Niagara Adventure Theater, a popular place to visit in Niagara Falls, USA

The Niagara Adventure Theater is a pleasant thing to do at Niagara Falls USA when one requires a break from the weather conditions. The theater shows a 30-minute film called Niagara: Legends of Adventure, which is accessible in six languages. Throughout the film, you will become informed about the history of Niagara Falls, as well as some intriguing details that will provide you a different perspective to view the falls.

The air-conditioned theater accommodates over 300 people and highlights a 45-foot enormous screen. The exhibition is conveyed consistently each 45 minutes, along these lines I wouldn`t expect to spend more than 60 minutes here. It`s an energizing movement to take part in when in Niagara Falls, NY with friends and family, additionally it gives you an opportunity to take a break.

As you view the film, you’ll gain knowledge about the early settlers at Niagara Falls. Explore some of the mysteries and myths surrounding the falls, such as world-record tightrope walks and barrel trips over the falls. You`re sure to hear something intriguing you didn`t know previously.

The Adventure Theatre is situated at the Niagara Falls Visitor Center, where you can procure maps, brochures, gifts, and excursion referrals and reservations. Additionally, the theater is covered under the , which offers you 30% off admission to several Niagara Falls, New York attractions.

9. Niagara Falls Fireworks from the American side

The top activity in Niagara Falls, NY at night involves observing the fireworks and illumination show.

It’s also one of the most romantic activities to partake in, and you shouldn’t be astonished if you see many couples sharing an intimate moment during the presentation. That said, the fireworks show is family-friendly and is the ideal way to end your day at the park.

This spectacular show is extremely popular, so I recommend arriving early to secure a good vantage point. The fireworks display, which has been a tradition for over 25 years, can be seen from the Canada and USA sides of the border. For those in the US, the finest views are from Prospect Point or the Rainbow Bridge, though the fireworks will be visible from other spots within the park as well.

Another fun thing to do in Niagara Falls, NY is to see the illuminated falls at night. The lights typically display a rainbow of colors, although the scheme changes for certain holidays and events.

The lights switch on at dusk and shut off between midnight and 2 a.m. The blending of the misty waterfalls and dreamy lights makes it one of the most beautiful attractions in Niagara Falls, USA. Be certain to bring your camera!

10. Three Sisters Islands, a unique thing to do in Niagara Falls New York

You’ll never be left wondering about main attractions around Niagara Falls, NY because the region contains abundant natural beauty. To prove my point, there are Three Sisters Islands located off the southern shore of Goat Island.

This lesser-known destination near Niagara Falls, USA deserves a visit. Originally called the Moss Islands, the name was changed to Three Sisters Islands in 1817.

Footbridges from Goat Island connect the small isles for easy access. Each of the islands has a beautiful landscape providing unique views of the Niagara River rapids upstream and the Horseshoe Falls. The walking paths around the island are wide and quite relaxing, ideal for a brief detour from the main Niagara Falls NY attractions.

11. Niagara Gorge Discovery Center & Hiking Trails

Niagara Gorge Discovery Center is a museum located in Niagara Falls, New York that is designed to educate visitors, including children, about the historical background and natural formation of the magnificent waterfalls in the surrounding area and how they continue evolving over time. Visitors have the opportunity to explore interactive exhibits providing insights into how the most recent ice age sculpted these iconic waterfalls and the role of Nikola Tesla and hydropower. The museum experience also includes a 180-degree theater presentation.

A hiking experience is another fun thing to do in Niagara Falls, USA, with youngsters. While not all the paths are suitable for little ones, there are several routes starting at the Niagara Gorge Trailhead Building, where hiking excursions are accessible from May to October.

The Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Hike offers fine perspectives with minimal physical exertion required, taking around an hour to complete. The Upper Great Gorge Hike is also suitable for beginners, taking two hours along the scenic yet short Great Gorge Railway Trail.

For a moderately challenging hike, try the Devil’s Hole Rapids and Giant Rock trail, which takes about 2.5 hours to complete. The Whirlpool Rapids Adventure Hike is the most difficult and will necessitate some traveling over boulders. It’ll take you to Whirlpool State Park, which I’ll discuss in the next section.

12. Whirlpool State Park, the most beautiful place to visit in Niagara Falls New York

Wondering what activities there are to do in Niagara Falls, NY other than visiting the falls? Whirlpool State Park is one of the pleasant areas you’ll find away from the crowds. If you want a break from the busy areas, I highly suggest exploring this park.

Whirlpool State Park is a scenic region spanning nearly 110 acres. To get there, you can follow the trail along the Niagara Gorge rim.

Situated north of the tourist center, the park itself spreads across two tiers. Along the street level are scenic overlooks with views of the Niagara Gorge and rapids. To get closer, take the stairs down at the southern end of the park near the Whirlpool Bridge leading to the riverside.

Here, you’ll get to observe the Niagara Whirlpool, one of the most engaging activities in Niagara Falls, NY. At its deepest point, the whirlpool reaches 125 feet. It’s produced by the gorge generating nearly a 90° change in water flow direction. Combined with the speed of the rapids (30-35 mph), it forms a natural whirlpool.

Here the trail known as the Whirlpool Rapids Trail winds along the gorge and waterway. Another fantastic thing for families to do in Niagara Falls, NY is to continue on to the Devil’s Hole Trail, which creates a loop and returns to Whirlpool State Park.

13. Visit Devil’s Hole State Park, another thing to do near Niagara Falls, NY

Devil’s Hole State Park is smaller and somewhat farther north, but still a superb Niagara USA attraction.

The area overlooks the Devil’s Hole Rapids and the lower Niagara Gorge. For the history fans, this was the former site of a Native American port, although early European settlers fought for control of the region. Anyway, the area became a state park in 1924, making it one of the oldest in the country.

Here, unique perspectives of Niagara Falls from New York can be obtained, although the rapids may be seen more prominently than the waterfalls themselves. In fact, Devil’s Hole was originally where the falls first started before the escarpment gradually eroded away. It remains a scenic spot, so take the Devil’s Hole Trail to get closer to the river and loop around to Whirlpool State Park to enjoy some excellent vantage points.

A good portion of the park and trail is cloaked in tree canopies, so it provides relief from the heat if you’re traveling in the summer. This is one of the locations to visit near Niagara Falls USA if you want to get up close and personal with the roaring rapids.

14. Whirlpool Jet Boat tour, one of the top-rated tourist attractions in Niagara Falls NY

For those traveling here amongst May and October, a jet boat tour delivering visitors into the whirlpool`s rapids is one of the top activities on the American side of Niagara Falls. You’ve seen the Niagara Whirlpool from land; but how about a boat ride directly into the choppy waters?

This powerboat ride goes upstream into the Niagara Gorge, then to the Whirlpool, and through the Devil’s Hole Rapids before returning to the dock. You’ll be approximately a mile from the falls, so there is no risk of being pulled over the cascading water. However, understand that you will get completely soaked from head to toe during the tour, so bring extra clothing and a towel.”

Taking a boat ride along Niagara Falls, USA is a thrilling family activity that achieves an ideal balance of excitement and safety. The skilled boat captains can skillfully maneuver the boats in ways like full 360° turns to intensely raise the pulse.

The jet boat tour covers about 18 miles in 45 minutes, and along the way, your guide will tell you about the history and geology of your natural surroundings.

This Niagara Falls New York attraction is safe, but quite intense, so be prepared!

15. Nikola Tesla Monument, an interesting place to visit on the American side of Niagara Falls

Near the Cave of the Winds attraction sits the Nikola Tesla Monument on Goat Island, honoring the scientist`s electrical innovations although his association with Niagara Falls may surprise some

In 1893, the Serbian-American inventor and engineer was called to Niagara Falls when the Cataract Construction Company wanted his advice on how to maximize their hydropower plant. His proposed plan of using an alternating current induction motor was a huge success, and part of the reason there are so many recreational activities on Niagara Falls’ NY side.

The sculpture of Nikola Tesla was presented to the United States by Yugoslavia in 1976 and remains a popular destination for visitors to Niagara Falls, New York. The statue depicts Tesla seated and examining schematics for some kind of undertaking, possibly the hydroelectric plant. The paper bends slightly between his hands, creating the ideal small seat for tourists wanting a photo opportunity with Tesla.

You can see the monument as you walk through the arch at Stedman’s Bluff. Another location to visit near Niagara Falls, USA.

16. Dine at the Top of the Falls Restaurant, one of the best things to do in Niagara Falls NY for couples

If wanting something to eat while visiting the American Niagara Falls, head to the Top of the Falls Restaurant. It’s the only dining location that overlooks the falls, making it a top Niagara USA attraction.

Patrons can enjoy their meals while appreciating exquisite, uninterrupted perspectives of the waterfalls from the restaurant`s elevated position and semi-circular architecture with tables aligned beside full-height windows. Although welcoming all, this establishment presents a suitable spot for couples in Niagara Falls, NY to spend time together amidst a family-friendly environment.

The menu at Top of the Falls restaurant offers classic American dishes along with modernized selections. Options include fish and chips, regionally inspired burgers from Niagara, vegetarian alternatives, craft beers, tasty desserts, and more. Many ingredients are sourced locally through a partnership with Taste NY. The atmosphere is casual and prices are moderate, so most visitors can afford a meal here.

This dining establishment is only operational from May through September, but it provides the prime spot for viewing Niagara Falls, USA while enjoying comfortable seating and satisfying fare.

17. Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, the best thing to do in Niagara Falls New York at night

A visit to the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino offers entertainment and nightlife options in Niagara Falls NY after dark.

The Seneca Casino was the state’s competitive answer to Ontario, Canada’s pair of casinos. Previously known as the Niagara Falls Convention & Civic Center, Seneca is now the largest New York resort outside of Manhattan. Here, you’ll discover various types of diversions in Niagara Falls USA meant for adult audiences. Spread over 147,000ft2, the casino houses over 2,000 slot machines, nearly 100 gaming tables, live poker games, and more.

Gambling is not the sole focus here either. You can take a respite from the games and head to the resort’s Seneca Niagara Events Center for a performance. The 2,400-seat theater hosts musicians, comedians, concerts, and additional shows.

For the purpose of rest and renewal, check out the full-service spa facility or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the fine dining establishments. You have your pick from a varied menu, including Asian, Italian, and traditional American fare. Additionally, there are several high-end retail stores where you may browse, such as Swarovski.

The Seneca Resort offers numerous enjoyable activities near Niagara Falls, NY. When it’s time to call it a night, stay overnight at the hotel, which has over 600 rooms and suites. I’ll discuss the accommodations in more detail later.

18. Visit Old Fort Niagara, one of the best things to do on the American side of Niagara Falls

A popular activity among those visiting the Niagara Falls, NY region involves touring Old Fort Niagara, an historic fortification positioned at the edge of the Niagara River where it meets Lake Ontario, located in Youngstown around a 20-minute drive from the falls. You can take this particular tour to visit the site.

Old Fort Niagara is home to over 300 years of story, so it’s the perfect Niagara Falls USA attraction for history lovers. The old “French Castle” was built by the French North American Empire back in 1726. The land was later seized by Great Britain, followed by the United States.

The public exhibition space also functions as an informative museum housing over 100,000 historical items, for example projectile weapons, home goods, garments, military equipment, and the original banner from the War of 1812. Be sure to stop by the historic lighthouse constructed in 1872, and stay alert for the alleged spirit rumored to haunt the grounds. As the story tells, he searches for his severed head as a beheaded French soldier.

The entire region is part of Fort Niagara State Park, which offers numerous recreational areas, like hiking paths. The stone entryway, the Gate of the Five Nations, is named in honor of the Iroquois Confederacy.

19. Niagara Falls Shopping Outlet Tour on the US side

While I hope this scenario does not occur, visitors may find themselves considering what to do at Niagara Falls, NY on a rainy day. If unfavorable weather threatens the trip, one option is to visit the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls.

This shopping complex is just a 15 minute drive outside of Niagara Falls State Park, so it’s a convenient thing to do around Niagara on a whim. Situated near the U.S.-Canada border, it’s one of the largest indoor retail outlets in the United States, housing over 200 stores.

As a fashion outlet, this center offers steep reductions on name-brand items and luxury gifts. Whether you want to shop for yourself or a loved one, you’ll find just about anything here. Some of the retailers here include Kate Spade, Nike Factory, Michael Kors, Under Armour, Columbia, and Vera Bradley.

There is also an eating area with casual meal choices, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the centre. Bargain hunters from Ontario and New York flock to the outlets for the best discounts. If you need an activity to do in Niagara Falls, NY when the weather’s bad, this tour might just suit the bill.

20. Wine Tasting Tour Niagara Falls USA Side

A wine tasting tour is a distinctive activity to do in Niagara Falls, NY if you have the available time. And if you’re a wine aficionado, naturally!

Alongside the Niagara Falls New York attractions, the region has seen fast development of wineries. Touring Niagara`s wine trail may offer a more relaxed activity if that`s what you`re seeking, and several vineyards lie within 30 minutes of the waterfalls.

The Village Vineyard and Bella Rose Vineyard are in neighboring Lewiston, NY. The latter represents the most recent addition to the Niagara Wine Trail and offers an assortment of dry and sweet wines in addition to craft beers.

Long Cliff Winery was established in 2011 and operates as a family-run business. The 5-acre vineyard supplies the grapes for popular wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. A Gust of Sun Winery has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and is owned by a wine-loving married couple.

There are two highly regarded wineries located slightly further from Niagara Falls. Arrowhead Spring Vineyard in Lockport offers sustainably created Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and additional varieties. Schulze Vineyards and Winery in Burt is a family-run farm on the shores of Lake Ontario and certainly worthwhile visiting.

This wine tasting tour will take visitors to four or more vineyards, where one can stroll through the groves and savor a sip or two of favorite wine. I think this is a nice activity for couples to engage in at Niagara Falls, NY, but it would also make for a fun girls day.

Hotels in Niagara Falls, NY

If you decide to stay over in the American side of Niagara Falls, I’ve got you covered. Below are the best hotels in Niagara Falls, United States, that I’m sure you’ll find enjoyable.

To make optimal use of our time, we rode in the vehicle directly after our duties had ended for the day and arrived at the falls located in Niagara, New York during nighttime hours. After resting through the night, we were able to wake early the following day and have the full day to experience the prominent attractions found in Niagara Falls, New York before heading to the adjacent Canadian region to view the fireworks display.

On the American side of Niagara Falls, we stayed at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, and we were pleased with it. We’ll be staying there again and recommend you consider checking it out.