Ultimate First Timer's Guide to Niagara Falls (24 Hour Guide)

Niagara Falls is one of the most famous adventure spots in the United States and Canada. At the top of many people's bucket lists, it's one spot that's worth a stop. Unfortunately, many people only have a short time to explore - and if you're like us, then you might only have 24 hours. Even if you've got just one day to explore Niagara Falls, there's plenty you can do within that time - from enjoying the views from your hotel room, to zipling across the water, and of course taking the famous boat ride, there's lots to choose from!

Our Essential Travel Resources :
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For flights, we recommend Hopper to compare the cheapest travel dates.
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Car rentals comparisons are best through Discover Cars - just make sure to bring your international driver's permit with you!

We always use Expedia's easy to use platform for hotels.

To keep cell service while traveling internationally, we always use Airalo’s easy eSIM’s (no installation required), and NordVPN to stay safe while connecting to different wifi.

For fun things to do, we always recommend Viator to find the best tours in the area, otherwise Get Your Guide also does the trick.

Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use for travel insurance.

Lastly, my packing list for any international or domestic travels.

Getting to Niagara Falls & Where to Stay

Getting to Niagara Falls is pretty easy, the most popular nearby airport is Buffalo at about 20 miles away, and you can rent a car from here to get closer to Niagara Falls. New York City, on the other hand, is just under a 7 hour drive if you're wanting to make an entire road trip out of it. If you want to visit the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, which in our opinion has some of the better views and excursions, you'll need to make sure to bring your passport!

If you're looking for a place to stay, I highly recommend splurging and booking a room with a view, it's worth it. We stayed at Embassy Suites Falls View and it was one of the most amazing rooms we've ever stayed in.  Not only are the two room suites incredibly spacious, but the views of the falls are truly unbeatable. They even include a cocktail hour for all guests with drinks and snacks. If you aren't able to get a room there, we've listed our other top recommendations below.

​Niagara Falls Canadian Side Hotels : 

• Niagara Falls Marriot Fallsview
• Fallsview Tower Hotel
• The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls
• Sheraton Fallsview Hotel

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Niagara Falls American Side Hotels : 

• Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls
• Hyatt Place Niagara Falls
• The Giacomo Hotel

Our Favorite Tours near Niagara Falls : 
- Zipline to the Falls
- Maid of the Mist Ticket
- Niagara Falls at Night

Best Things to Do with 24 Hours in Niagara Falls

My top recommendation during a 24 hour visit to Niagara Falls is to book a ride on the zipline through Niagara Falls Wild Play.  When we visited, there were hardly any people going during our time, and to be honest it was our favorite way to experience the incredible Falls. Since you just have 24 hours, I would do this ride first, right away in the morning. The ride itself is fast compared to other experiences, but long compared to other zip lines. The views are unlike anything I've ever seen, and it's 100% the most unique way to experience Niagara Falls.

Book Niagara Falls Zip Lining

My second recommendation of course is to book a ride on one of the waterfall cruises! There's quite a few to choose from, and based on what we saw they're really all the same. If you're wanting to experience the falls close up and feel the spray of the water - this cruise is the way to go. Just make sure to wear waterproof makeup and wear your poncho!

The Cave of the Winds is another great way to experience the waterfall. Unfortunately during our visit it was closed, however we've heard after a short hike down the wooden boardwalks you'll make your way to the "Hurricane Deck" where you can see and feel the falls in their full force. I would do the cruise in the afternoon, and the Cave of the Winds tour in the evening - just make sure to go before they close at 6 pm during the summer months!​

Book a Waterfall Cruise!

Watch our Niagara Falls Adventures here!

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Other posts you might be interested in :
​-> Best Places to Eat in Banff
-> Banff Gondola Guide
-> Lake Minnewanka Cruise Guide

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