Niagara Falls, one of North America's most breathtaking natural wonders, is easily accessible for visitors staying in Buffalo, New York, with a short and scenic journey. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know—from detailed transportation options to travel tips.
How Far Is Niagara Falls from Buffalo?
The distance between downtown Buffalo and Niagara Falls is ~20 miles, depending on your specific starting point. The drive typically takes 25-30 minutes via the I-190 N highway. If you're heading to the Canadian side (Niagara Falls, Ontario), the distance increases slightly, with travel times around 40 minutes, and don’t forget to add border wait time!
Buffalo to Niagara Falls by Car: Driving Routes & Parking
Detailed Driving Routes Comparison
Niagara Falls has 2 sides, split by the national divide: the American Side falls within the state of New York, the U.S., and the Canadian side falls within Ontario, Canada.
Scenario | Recommended Route | Pros | Cons |
Airport - Niagara ON (Late Evening) | I-190 N - Queenston-Lewiston Bridge | Scenic, less crowded, avoids Rainbow Bridge traffic | Slightly longer route |
Airport - Niagara ON (General) | I-190 N - Peace Bridge | 24/7, faster to downtown Niagara ON | Busier during peak hours |
Niagara ON - Upstate NY (Friday PM) | QEW - Peace Bridge | Fastest eastbound route, minimal detours | Potential Friday afternoon delays |
Niagara NY - Buffalo (Direct) | I-190 S via Grand Island | Most direct US-side route | Potential traffic congestion during peak hours |
Toll Information
- Grand Island Bridge (I-190): $1 (cashless)
- International Bridges: $5-7 USD/CAD
- NEXUS at Whirlpool: Free (with account)
Parking Options
When visiting Niagara Falls, New York:
Category | Details |
Vehicle Types | Accommodates all vehicles (RVs, buses, cars, motorcycles) |
Pricing | • Lots: $5-$30 (seasonal) • Street: $3-$5 per hour |
Access Routes | From I-190/I-290: Take Niagara Falls Blvd (Route 62) |
Proximity | All lots within walking distance to Niagara Falls State Park |
Navigation | Clear signage at all locations |
When visiting Niagara Falls, Ontario, paid parking is available inside Niagara Parks including Dufferin Islands, Kingsbridge Park, Rainbow Bridge, and White Water Walk, with hourly rates ranging from $8 to $12.
Border Crossing Tips
When crossing the border between Niagara Falls, all persons entering the United States by land must show proof of citizenship, while US citizens traveling to Canada need a valid passport. Crossing fees is needed, for example, The Rainbow Bridge charges $6.00 USD or $8.50 CAD for vehicles traveling to Canada (returning to the US is free), and $1.00 USD or $1.25 CAD for pedestrians crossing to the US . Simply to say, the vehicle fees are only collected when traveling to Canada, while pedestrian fees apply only when entering the US. These regulations and fees may vary at different border crossings, for further entry requirements, check with Canadian Border Services web app or other official government resources.
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Buffalo to Niagara Falls Public Transit: Bus & Train
NFTA Metro Bus (Route 40)
Route | Downtown Buffalo - Downtown Niagara Falls - Grand Island - Portage Road Transit Center |
Frequency | Departs every 60 mins |
Greyhound
Fares | Starting at $10.98 |
Frequency | 7 times daily |
Travel Time | 25 minutes (quickest) |
Amenities | Free Wi-Fi, extra legroom |
Pro tips: If you're looking for a cheap ticket to Niagara Falls, remember to book early. Otherwise, traveling on weekdays or during non-peak hours, when budget-friendly fares available!
Amtrak Train
Empire Service and Maple Leaf connect New York City to Niagara Falls:
Routes | New York City - Albany - Syracuse - Rochester - Niagara Falls |
Duration | ~9 hours from NYC |
Station | <10 minute drive to Niagara Falls (Lyft/Uber available) |
Frequency | Daily |
Buffalo to Niagara Falls: Taxi & Rideshares
Option | Price (USD) | Duration | Distance | Booking Method | Availability | Notes |
Uber | ~$41 | 36 min | 22 km | Uber app | 24/7 | Cheaper, dynamic pricing |
Taxi | ~$90 | 35 min | 22 km | Street hail/stand | 24/7 | Fixed rate, no surge pricing |
Buffalo to Niagara Falls: Tours & Must-See Stops
Niagara Falls Day Tours
Must-See Attractions Along the Way
Old Fort Niagara
Opening Hours | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Daily) |
Recommended Visit Time | 2-3 hours |
Address | 102 Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY 14174, USA |
Whirlpool State Park
Opening Hours | 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Daily) |
Recommended Visit Time | 1-2 hours |
Address | Niagara Scenic Pkwy, Niagara Falls, NY 14303, USA |
Aquarium of Niagara
Opening Hours | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Daily) |
Recommended Visit Time | 1-3 hours |
Address | 701 Whirlpool St, Niagara Falls, NY 14301, USA |
Best Time to Visit Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls showcases unique highlights throughout the year:
Season | Months | Pros | Cons | Recommended For |
Summer | June-August | - Warm temperatures - Extended daylight hours | - Peak crowds - Highest prices - Occasional heat waves | Families, first-time visitors, boat tours |
Fall | September-October | - Fewer tourists - Pleasant temperatures | - Maid of the Mist closes mid-October - Fewer tour options - Unpredictable rain | Photographers, couples, budget travelers |
Winter | November-March | - Frozen falls spectacle - Holiday light displays | - Subfreezing temps - Limited attraction operations - Icy walkways | Adventure seekers, Canadians, short trips |
Spring | April-May | - Powerful water flow - Blooming flowers | - Frequent rain showers - Chilly evenings | Nature lovers, hikers, local visitors |
FAQ: Buffalo to Niagara Falls
Do I need a passport to visit Niagara Falls, Canada?
Yes, a valid passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license is required for entry into Canada.Is there a train from Buffalo to Niagara Falls?
Yes, Amtrak's Maple Leaf Train runs daily between Buffalo and Niagara Falls, NY (and continues to Canada).Which side of Niagara Falls is better, U.S. or Canada?
The U.S. side offers closer access to Cave of the Winds and Prospect Point, while the Canadian side provides a broader view of Horseshoe Falls and more tourist attractions.Can I bike from Buffalo to Niagara Falls?
Yes, the Niagara River Greenway Trail provides a scenic bike route along the river.