How to spend 1 eventful day in Niagara Falls, NY

With so much to do and see in Niagara Falls, NY, it can be hard to fit a lot into your trip; definitely if it’s just for 1 day. Here’s how you can spend 1 amazing eventful day in Niagara Falls.

Morning

Old Fort Niagara

Take a step back in time at the Old Fort Niagara; known as the oldest military site in North America. There’s a lot to see and learn there. Such as visiting the original 18th century buildings, learn how to fire a cannonball, walk inside of a gunpowder room and more. Give yourself about 2 hours to explore Old Fort Niagara Falls.

Afternoon

Whirlpool State Park

Explore all that Whirlpool State Park has to offer. From hiking, biking, picnic areas and providing amazing views of the whirlpool & rapids. There’s two ways to explore Whirlpool State Park. There’s the street level that has great scenic views of the river and then there’s the river level that includes a hike and you can get closer to the river. For a day trip, I recommend the street level because it doesn’t take much time. You can get amazing views of the whirlpool & rapids and still have enough time for more adventures. The river level would be nice for a weekend trip, so you can spend hours enjoying the park.

Grab lunch

Eat lunch at one of the many restaurants close to Niagara Falls State Park. From Flip Burger, Spot Niagara Falls, Hard Rock Cafe, Punjabi Hut and more.

Maid of the Mist

Aboard the Maid of the Mist boat and experience Niagara Falls like no other. Not only do you get close to Niagara Falls, you get amazing views and get to feel the power it has. You will leave the Maid of the Mist soaked and with an experience of a lifetime.

Niagara Falls Observation Tower

View all three falls from the Niagara Falls USA Observation Tower (known as Prospect Park Observation Tower). Niagara Falls USA Observation Tower stands at 282ft tall and provides a panoramic view of the Horseshoe Falls (known as the Canadian Falls), American Falls and Bridal Veils Fall. With a Maid of the Mist ticket, you can access the observation tower for free. Without a Maid of the Mist ticket, the fee to access the observation tower is $1.25.

Rainbow Bridge

Enjoy spectacular views of the falls while crossing the Rainbow Bridge. The bridge connects Niagara Falls, NY to Niagara Falls, CA. You can cross the bridge a variety of ways; by foot, bike and automobile.

Goat Island

Stroll through Goat Island. Goat Island is located in Niagara Falls State Park between the American Falls and the Canadian Falls, providing scenic views. It’s an amazing place to go for some peace and relaxation. There are several ways to get to Goat Island. You can drive, ride a bicycle or walk. The preferred way to get to Goat Island is by foot, by crossing the pedestrian bridge.

Evening

Niagara Falls Illumination

End your eventful day in Niagara Falls watching the Niagara Falls Illumination and see the Falls like you’ve never seen before. The Niagara Falls will light up, displaying multiple colors. This takes place every night. The website has a schedule with specific dates, including start and end times.