Niagara Falls – Insider Information and Tips

Summer is the best time to visit the falls in terms of waterfall strength. The greater the volume, the more spectacular the viewing experience, and more water passes over the falls in the summertime. Of course, summer is also when most of the park’s 15 million annual visitors arrive. During the months of June through August, many of the attractions are very crowded, and lines can be long.
Winter is the less desirable time to visit the falls. The weather can be bitterly cold – since you’ll be standing outside watching the falls, you’ll be exposed to the elements. If the temperatures have been low for some time, layers of ice form and can hide your view of the falling water. Some people enjoy the view of iced-over falls, but if your goal is to see massive amounts of water cascading over the falls, visit in the summer.

A good way to compromise between park crowding and weather conditions is to visit in May or late September – crowds are significantly lower, and the temperatures are usually moderate. In addition, most accommodations will be less expensive – hotels in the area charge higher in-season rates.

If you want to save money on accommodations, choose a hotel on the Canadian side of the border. You’ll get better views of the falls, and in general the prices are lower.
If you visit the park during peak season, you can try to avoid long lines by scheduling your visits to the popular attractions in the morning (before 10:30 a.m.) or late afternoon (after 4:00 p.m.). And, if at all possible, avoid visiting on the weekends. Cave of the Winds and Journey Behind the Falls, two of the more popular attractions, can have especially long waiting lines – do your best to visit these two attractions early or late in the day

Don’t be surprised if a wedding is taking place while you visit. Niagara Falls is still famous as a honeymoon destination. Wedding ceremonies and receptions play a significant role in the local economy.

If you’re an American citizen crossing to the Canadian side, try to purchase everything using your debit or credit cards. You will usually receive the best exchange rate from your bank. If you need to exchange currency in Niagara Falls Ontario, Casino Niagara typically offers the best exchange rate. There are also currency exchanges at the bridges and local banks. Most businesses will also exchange cash for you, but don’t expect to get the best rate.

If you’re driving to Niagara Falls on the Robert Moses Parkway in New York, be sure to reduce your speed to 35 mph when you approach the Park. The State Parks Police are diligent about monitoring highway speeds.

Many people want to see the falls from both sides. If you’re crossing the international border, be sure to bring either a birth certificate or valid passport in addition to your driver’s license. If you have children with you, their birth certificates are required. If the children are not yours, you must provide a signed, hand-written note by the parent indicating how long the child will be in the country you are visiting. Include their contact numbers as well. You can be denied entry if you, your children, or guests lack proper identification.

If you make purchases and travel between Ontario and New York, be sure to save your receipts. When crossing the international border, you’ll be required to declare all purchases. Certain items can be taxable, or you may qualify for tax refunds. The duty free stores located at the bridges between the U.S. and Canadian borders can give you more information.

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