Niagara Falls, New York: What to See, Where to Stay, What to Do

Niagara Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world and the nation's honeymoon capital, is a popular tourist destination. There are several options for every type of traveler on any kind of budget.

What to see:

If you want to experience Niagara Falls in all its raw beauty, you'll want to visit the American side of the Falls in the city of Niagara Falls, New York. The Canadian side, over the bridge in Ontario, is a wonderful day trip if you're in the mood for tourist attractions, so bring your passport, as well. But, if it's the authentic, historic experience you're looking for, you'll want to stay planted stateside.

While Niagara Falls, Ontario was scrambling to erect wax museums, souvenir shops, a Hard Rock Cafe and Planet Hollywood, the folks in Niagara Falls, New York were fighting to preserve as much of the Falls' original aesthetic as possible.

The Falls are surrounded by the protected Niagara Falls State Park, designed by the famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. The state park makes for beautiful walks, pictures, and picnics. The park encompasses a stretch of the rushing Niagara River, which flows around Goat Island and Three Sisters Island--each with their own unique formations and scenery.

No trip to Niagara Falls is complete without a ride on the famous boat the Maid of the Mist. You will don a blue poncho, board the boat, then float toward the foot of the Horseshoe Falls where the water crashes to the rocks below, spraying your face in the process. A trip to the Cave of the Winds will bring you head on with the Bridal Veil Falls.

History buffs will want to visit Old Fort Niagara, a former Colonial War stronghold on Lake Ontario, a few miles away as well as retrace the steps of runaway slaves on a tour of the underground railroad with Motherland Connextions.

Hike the Niagara Gorge trail and visit Devil's Hole Park alone or with a guide to see the rushing rapids and deadly whirlpool of the Lower Niagara River, and hike down the natural stone staircase alongside steep, cliffside drops and natural rock formations. Ask passing fishermen for their best secret fishing spots and bring snacks for an unforgettable picnic.

Where to stay:

There are several chain hotels in downtown Niagara Falls, which are near most of the attractions mentioned above. There is a nice brick walkway downtown, with access to the parks as well as a few restaurants, coffee shops, the Canadian border, the Seneca Niagara Casino, and the night life of 3rd Street. But, unfortunately, much of downtown is blighted, and the true heart of the city--with its shops, restaurants and boutiques--is to be found on Pine Avenue.

Another option is to stay on Niagara Falls Boulevard. The street itself is miles long, and a host of hotels and motels are scattered along its length, especially the part that leads through Wheatfield and Niagara Falls. Lodging varies among a very wide range of rates, starting at $29 per night. The quality of each can vary extraordinarily, so be sure to check the room before you rent it. But there is something for everyone from the college kids on a road trip, to families traveling with small children.

Staying on Niagara Falls Boulevard will mean you will probably need to drive to most places, but you will be in the center of dozens of chain and independent stores, restaurants, and services, including the Fashion Outlets mall on Military Road.

Where to go:

Be sure to check out the nearby historic Erie Canal town North Tonawanda just minutes away. Drive along the Niagara River, stopping at Fisherman Park's War Memorial along the way. Check out the Erie Canal, as well as the boutiques, restaurants, and galleries on Webster Street, as well as the famous Carousel Museum on Thompson Street to ride the antique wooden carousel and see their one-of-a-kind gift shop. Catch a free concert at Gateway Park, and stop at Dwyer's Irish Pub for some great Buffalo chicken wings and a pint of beer. Walk over the bridge to the City of Tonawanda, stopping for a hot dog and ice cream at either Mississippi Mudds or Old Man River, and watching the sun set over the Niagara River at Niawanda Park.