There is something breathtakingly magical about waterfalls that makes you stare in awe at nature, and this extremely popular tourist attraction is no exception. The sheer beauty and might of Niagara Falls, combine the roar of the rushing waters (3160 tons of water flow over Niagara Falls every second) make this an absolute bucket list stop.
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, Niagara Falls State Park is a highly accessible park, and hosts all types of events, from daily fireworks and light shows surrounding the falls to special holiday events and private weddings. Although the Niagara Falls are the highlight, the scenery and rapids surrounding and leading up to the falls are well worth the visit on their own. Beautifully maintained walkways and the tranquil rush of the river make for a really pleasant getaway for an afternoon or even a long weekend.
Despite Niagara Falls State Park being a massively popular destination, reaching nearly 9 million visitors each year, it never feels too crowded thanks to the massive area the park covers and the huge variety of activities that keeps people engaged in different areas. The park is typically busiest during the weekends and daytime, so if you want a more private visit, I’d suggest checking out the evening activities during the weekdays (you can also skip the $10 parking fee during the evening). For a truly unforgettable experience, check out Maid of the Mist and the Cave of Winds to get up close and person with the falls – although I would suggest booking these tours ahead to make sure you can get a spot.
Niagara Falls State Park is definitely a tourist destination – but that isn’t always a bad thing. In this case, it means there’s plenty of bathrooms, food, hotels, and other activities in the area – as well as the ability to head towards less popular areas of the park for a more calm nature experience. No matter how you do it, Niagara Falls State Park is absolutely worth the visit.
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