The American and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls are vastly different and they each have their own distinct reasons for visiting.
On a recent trip to Niagara Falls, I set out to find what was worth doing and seeing on each side.
There are a lot of similarities and contrasts, so if you only have one day to visit both the American and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls, here’s what to see and do and what to skip.
Following this itinerary, it’s definitely possible to visit both sides of Niagara Falls in one day.
All you have to do is choose which side you want to start on (and I’ve created an itinerary for each one).
Tip: scroll down for printable 1-day Niagara Falls itineraries and tips to consider if you only have one day to visit.
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Don’t have time to read the full article? I recommend this 1-day tour which brings you to both sides of Niagara Falls – which has a perfect 5-star rating.
Niagara Falls 1 Day Itinerary (starting from Canada & Ending in USA)
Morning on the Canadian Side
Begin with a hearty breakfast at the Flying Saucer restaurant, which is located 10 minutes from downtown Niagara Falls.
There are also plenty of options along Fallsview Boulevard with beautiful views of the falls.
Soak Up Views of the Falls
For breathtaking panoramic views of both American and Canadian falls, visit Queen Victoria Park, or take a ride on the SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel.
Journey Behind the Falls
Head to Table Rock Welcome Centre to experience the Journey Behind the Falls tour.
This exciting attraction allows you to get up close and personal with the falls by descending tunnels to an observation deck where you’ll be at the base of Horseshoe Falls.
Tip: if you don’t feel like you have time for this, you can skip it and just do Cave of the Winds on the USA side (it’s a very similar tour, but way better).
Whirlpool Aero Car
Take a scenic drive (or a short taxi/Uber ride) to the Whirlpool Aero Car.
This attraction offers a unique experience as you soar over the Niagara Whirlpool in a cable car, providing stunning views of the rapids below.
Butterfly Conservatory
Explore the nearby Butterfly Conservatory, where you can walk among thousands of colorful butterflies in a lush tropical garden.
It’s a nice change of pace if you need a break from the tacky & touristy attractions or the crowds.
Grab lunch somewhere on Clifton Hill.
I recommend the Secret Garden which has a lovely patio overlooking the falls, and is just steps away from the Rainbow Bridge border crossing.
Afternoon on the American Side
Make your way to the Rainbow Bridge for your border crossing into the United States.
Be sure to have your passport and any required visas ready.
Maid of the Mist
Start with the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour, which takes you on a boat to the base of Horseshoe Falls.
Prepare to get wet!
The best views are at the front of the boat either on the top or bottom deck.
But, the back of the boat is fine because once you reach the falls, the boat turns around so people at the back get a chance to be sprayed by the mist.
Tip: We like the Maid of the Mist because the boats are electric. The Hornblower cruise on the Canadian Side uses diesel boats.
Cave of the Winds
After your Maid of the Mist tour, walk over to the Cave of the Winds.
You’ll be provided with a poncho before descending 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge for an unforgettable experience at the base of Bridal Veil Falls.
You’ll get to walk on boardwalks along the edge of the waterfalls and get blasted with water! You get VERY wet on this attraction!
Observation Tower
After the elevator ride back up from Cave of the Winds, spend a few minutes at the Niagara Falls Observation Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding area.
We found this was the best place for photos on the New York side with the fewest people around.
Explore Some Viewpoints
While you wait for your clothes to dry off, stroll around Niagara Falls State Park.
Prospect Point and Terrapin Point offer excellent views of the American Falls and Horseshoe Falls from the American side.
Evening
Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the restaurants on the American side, such as Top of the Falls Restaurant or the Red Coach Inn.
Niagara Falls Illumination
Finish your day with the spectacular Niagara Falls Illumination.
The falls are beautifully lit up in various colors after dark. Check the illumination schedule for the specific time.
Fireworks (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting from May to October consider staying a bit later to catch the fireworks display over Niagara Falls. They usually start at 9pm.
Niagara Falls 1 Day Itinerary (starting from USA & ending in Canada
Morning on the American Side
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant in Niagara Falls, New York.
We like Power City Eatery for the bagels and breakfast sandwiches.
Niagara Falls State Park
Head to Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the United States.
Start your visit at the Visitor Center to pick up maps and information about the park.
Prospect Point and Terrapin Point offer excellent views of the American Falls and Horseshoe Falls from the American side.
Maid of the Mist
Begin your exploration of the falls with the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour, which offers incredible views of the American Falls and Horseshoe Falls.
Cave of the Winds
After the boat tour, experience the thrilling Cave of the Winds adventure, where you’ll get up close to the Bridal Veil Falls.
Don’t miss the Hurricane Deck for the best photo opportunity.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the nearby restaurants, such as Top of the Falls Restaurant, which offers panoramic views of the falls.
Afternoon on the Canadian Side
Walk or drive across the Rainbow Bridge to the Canadian side. Ensure you have your passport and any required visas.
Journey Behind the Falls
Start your Canadian adventure with the Journey Behind the Falls experience at Table Rock Welcome Centre.
Explore tunnels that take you behind the falls for unique views.
Butterfly Conservatory
Visit the Butterfly Conservatory, where you can immerse yourself in a tropical garden filled with colorful butterflies.
Evening on the Canadian Side
Skylon Tower
Before dinner, visit the Skylon Tower for panoramic views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area.
This is an excellent spot to capture breathtaking photos.
Have dinner at the rotating restaurant in the Skylon Tower or somewhere close to Clifton Hill.
We like The Keg, which has wonderful views of the falls.
If you want something more casual. Visit Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill, where all appetizers are 50% off after 9pm.
Niagara Falls Illumination and Fireworks
Witness the spectacular Niagara Falls Illumination from the Canadian side, where the falls are beautifully lit up in various colors after dark.
If you’re visiting from May to October, stay a bit longer to catch the fireworks display over Niagara Falls which start at 9pm.
Where to Stay in Niagara Falls, Canada
If you’re going to stay overnight in Niagara Falls, it’s better to do so on the Canadian side, which gives you the option of getting a room with a view of the falls (which can’t be done on the American side).
Marriott Fallsview Hotel
This is the the highest-rate and best priced hotel for a perfect view of Horseshoe Falls. Rooms on floors 12 and above have a view of the Falls.
Tip: if a room on floor 12 is a lot cheaper than higher up, book it! This was our view from the 12th floor, and it was perfect. No need to be higher.
Cadillac Motel
If you’re on a budget, the Cadillac Motel is the best place to stay in Niagara Falls.
Our room with a king bed was $72 and it was only a 10-minute walk to Clifton Hill and the falls.
Is 1 Day Enough for Niagara Falls?
While it’s possible to visit both sides of the border at Niagara Falls in one day, realistically you’d have a better time if you dedicate one day to each side.
I always recommend your first full day on the Canadian side, because it has the better panoramic views of all 3 waterfalls.
It also has more attractions surrounding the falls, and you could treat yourself to a hotel room overlooking the falls.
On the second day, visit Niagara Falls, New York, and it will seem like more of a backstage pass look at the falls.
You get to be much closer to the thundering water, and the US side isn’t commercialized like its Canadian counterpart. It’s a lovely park-setting and very calm and tranquil.
You’ll be sick of the crowds and craziness on the Canadian side and will appreciate the American side better.
Which Side Should You Visit if You Only Have 1 Day?
If you only have one day to visit Niagara Falls, choosing which side to spend your time depends on your interests.
If your primary objective is to see the expansive falls, it’s no contest that the Canadian side is better.
If you’re more of a ‘park purist’ and want to enjoy a serene and natural atmosphere while enjoying the falls, the American side is where you want to be.
More Niagara Falls Posts:
Top Things to Do on the Way to Niagara Falls from NYC (2 Scenic Routes)