Explore The Top 11 Things To Do Near Niagara Falls New York

You’ve heard about the magic of Niagara Falls. It’s the one of most visited tourist attractions in the world, as people flock to see the majestic view. And if you’ve the chance, you should visit the area and experience the beauty and the grandeur. But the actual waterfall is not the only place worth visiting.

You have so much time to spend here, so why not explore the area around the waterfall? Trust me, you will have a memorable journey.

Let’s check out the best things to do near Niagara Falls New York!

Top 12 Things To Do Near Niagara Falls New York

1. Cave of the Winds

This cave is located on Goat Island. It offers you an exhilarating and close-up view of the falls. Start your journey at the indoor multimedia “World Changed Here Pavilion” museum, where you can learn about the fascinating history of the falls. From there, you’ll descend 175 feet in an elevator leading to the Hurricane Deck.

This is located right next to Bridal View Falls. It’s one of the more hidden places. Check out what else hidden things you can do in New York. Taking this tour will be by far one of the best things to do in New York. Prepare to get yourself soaked in water as you watch the water come down rushing from the hills, making it a worthy sight. If you want to take the spook meter to a hundred, then be sure to wait till it gets dark. Its one of the best things to do in New York at night. 

2. Maid of the Mist

The Maid of the Mist is situated within Niagara Falls State Park, but it deserves special mention. Here, you’ll enjoy a 20-minute double-decker boat tour in the iconic plastic poncho. This will take you to the base of the Horseshoe Falls. It spans over an impressive 2,200 feet, and these falls will captivate you with their grandeur. For generations, the Maid of the Mist has been a tourist attraction. This is one of the most perfect destinations in New York for first-timers because it leaves them mesmerized. It’s a great place to be especially during the rain. Checkout what other things you can do in New York in the rain.  

3. Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge was constructed between 1940 and ’41. This bridge replaced the Falls View Bridge, also known as the “Honeymoon Bridge.” The original construction met a tragic end in January 1938 due to an ice jam. To prevent a similar catastrophe in future, the new bridge was built atop 50-foot abutments to ensures its stability. The Rainbow Bridge stretches 950 feet in length and soars 202 feet above the Niagara River. The Bridge spans the US and Canada’s shared border, so it’s one of the most unique things to do in New York if you end up visiting the city. Having no entry fee, it’s one of the best free things you can do in NYC.

4. Goat Island

The Goat Island lies amidst the splendor of Niagara Falls. This place offers a sanctuary of jaw-dropping natural beauty, leaving you awestruck. The island’s walking trails lead to stunning sights overlooking the surrounding landscapes. From Terrapin Point and Luna Island, you can enjoy the views of the Horseshoe Falls and American Falls.

You can even explore the wonders of the Cave of the Winds, at the base of Bridal Veil Falls. If you want to tick off some of the bucket list things to do in New York, you must cross the historic walking bridge to reach the Three Sisters Islands. It is a marvelous site that will leave you with an unforgettable experience. As there being no ticket or entry fee, it’s one of the cheapest things to do in NYC you can enjoy.

5. Old Fort Niagara

This is located just a 20-minute drive from Niagara Falls. The Old Fort Niagara rests at the base of the Niagara River. It was established in 1679 as a military base. This historic site gained prominence during the War of 1812. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or seeking a family day out, or a casual gathering with friends, a visit to the Old Fort Niagara will make your day.

It is one of the most fulfilling things to do in NYC with kids because it’s fun, educational, and full of adventures. You and your family can explore the meticulously preserved 18th-century buildings to gain insights into life within the fort. Don’t miss the artillery demonstration carried out by gallant uniformed soldiers.

6. Aquarium of Niagara

Visiting the Aquarium of Niagara should be on your list of fun things to do in NYC this weekend! Despite its modest size, it instantly catches your attention. You can feed a Humboldt penguin from Peru or witness the playful antics of California Sea Lions as they balance balls on their noses. You can even enjoy watching the rescued harbor seals as the trainers introduce each one by name and feed them. It’s definitely a fun activity in NYC for couples to enjoy. 

7. Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls

Who doesn’t like to go on a shopping spree? You’re in New York after all. Shopping is one of the best things to do in NYC with teens because the motivation of shopping will keep them busy and they’ll surely like to spend some more bucks. You will find a number of retail stores at the newly remodeled Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls. This modern and state-of-the-art mall is located at a mere ten-minute drive from Niagara Falls State Park. This single-storey indoor outlet shopping destination has over 200 designer outlets, where you can enjoy discounted offers upto 75% off.

8. Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Center

The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Center celebrates the city’s history of Underground Railroad abolitionists and freedom fighters. This is an excellent place to visit, while in New York, as you get an awareness of the lasting impact of slavery on contemporary social injustices. You can enjoy the center’s exhibition, “One More River to Cross.” This thought-provoking display highlights the commitment, determination, and self-reliance of Niagara Falls residents, particularly African Americans, during the Underground Railroad era from 1810-1850.

9. Whirlpool State Park

You can find this park along the eastern bank of the Niagara River. Whirlpool State Park welcomes you with an impressive whirlpool and Class V rapids. You can walk the marked trails that lead to stunning viewpoints. Otherwise, you can enjoy watching the river flow from the resting areas. On a similar note, if you like adrenaline pumping through your veins then you can take a thrilling powerboat ride to explore the rapids and feel the rush of the swirling waters. It’s definitely one of the weirder things to do in NYC. This place is definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for crazy things to do in New York.

10. Niagara Falls Observation Tower

True to its name, the Niagara Falls Observation Tower provides visitors with an unobstructed, crystal clear view of the falls. This tower serves as the prime location that lets you witness the waterfall at its absolute best. It also offers an exceptional vantage point to appreciate the illumination that complements seasonal fireworks. If you plan it right, it can be one of the best romantic things you can do in NYC.

11. Devil’s Hole State Park

Devil’s Hole State Park has a unique and slightly eerie charm to it. The park has a stone staircase that descends into the Niagara Gorge. Standing there, you’ll see the Gorge in all of its glory. While exploring Devil’s Hole, you can go onto the rocks along the riverbank, but be careful because the powerful currents can be dangerous. It’s one of the most unusual things to do in New York.

Conclusion

If you’re planning a trip to Niagara Falls, you are lucky. But you should not just focus on one attraction. The area offers a detailed insight into the culture, history, art, and life, including fun activities. So what are you looking for? Plan your trip to New York now. We have curated a list of some of the most adventurous things to do in New York near Niagara Falls. Get ready to have a memorable time of your life.

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