Courtesy Niagara Falls State Park
Hours:
Vistor's Center: Winter daily 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Summer daily 8 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Price:
Prices vary by activity. Parking $8-$10.
Type:
Monuments & Historic Sites, Nature Centers & Zoos
As the most powerful waterfall in North America, Niagara straddles the international border between Canada and the United States. A short 25-minute trip from downtown Buffalo, the falls is a can’t-miss for anyone visiting the area. Divided into three distinct cascades—the 167-foot-high American Falls, 181-foot-high Bridal Veil Falls and 158-foot-high Horseshoe Falls—the views from all points are breathtaking. But if you’re really looking to experience the majesty of Niagara up close, take a ride on The Maid of The Mist boat ride and enjoy the namesake mist from the fall’s spray. Also, be sure to make a trip to the Niagara Falls Discovery Center to learn even more about the falls. As an added bonus, the park is open year round for hiking, biking, fishing and cross-country skiing.