Niagara Falls In March?
Mar 1st, 2003, 01:46 PM
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Niagara Falls In March?
Hi All,
We're going to be in upstate NY at the end of March and thought we would drop by Niagara Falls (on the American Side) one evening to view the falls.
In researching this quick stop it seems that the falls on the American side are accessed through a "state Park" and it seems that the hours for the park end at 6:15pm. Is this true? How can one view the falls in the evening on the American side?
Many thanks!
Also, any recommendations for lodging with rooms that would sleep 5?
We're going to be in upstate NY at the end of March and thought we would drop by Niagara Falls (on the American Side) one evening to view the falls.
In researching this quick stop it seems that the falls on the American side are accessed through a "state Park" and it seems that the hours for the park end at 6:15pm. Is this true? How can one view the falls in the evening on the American side?
Many thanks!
Also, any recommendations for lodging with rooms that would sleep 5?
Mar 1st, 2003, 02:23 PM
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Don't worry, you can view the Falls 24/7. I believe the bathrooms and other services like the tram probably close for the night, but you can park and walk up to the viewing areas. It's not like other state parks where you drive up and pay to enter. Niagara is free to see.
Sorry I can't help with hotels (there aren't that many on the American side, so you shouldn't have a hard time finding something, and this time of year rates should be down. Have fun. The falls are beautiful at night.
Sorry I can't help with hotels (there aren't that many on the American side, so you shouldn't have a hard time finding something, and this time of year rates should be down. Have fun. The falls are beautiful at night.
Mar 1st, 2003, 02:49 PM
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I know the view is better from the Canadian side but we will be traveling with our 2 kids and our niece and didn't want the hassle of going accross the border with her.....wouldn't we need a birth certificate and letter from parents and stuff? It just seems easier to stay in the US since it will be just one night.
Are you guys SURE you can view the falls at night? We are flying out of Buffalo the next day so we thought we would spend the evening at Niagra falls for a quick look see but it won't be worth it if we can't get over to see the falls.
Thanks for any input!
Oh, I've been calling the hotels and it sounds like they all can sleep 5 with 1 on a cot/rollaway. Anybody know of a clean decent place with an indoor pool? Of course they're all telling me they are the nicest place but I'd love to hear from some one who has stayed at one of these places?
Are you guys SURE you can view the falls at night? We are flying out of Buffalo the next day so we thought we would spend the evening at Niagra falls for a quick look see but it won't be worth it if we can't get over to see the falls.
Thanks for any input!
Oh, I've been calling the hotels and it sounds like they all can sleep 5 with 1 on a cot/rollaway. Anybody know of a clean decent place with an indoor pool? Of course they're all telling me they are the nicest place but I'd love to hear from some one who has stayed at one of these places?
Mar 1st, 2003, 09:33 PM
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I'm with Syv. Due to the configuration of the Falls, the views from the Canadian side are far more spectacular, particularly if you plan to spend the night.
There are lots of websites with all you need to know about viewing the Falls at night, along with some terrific hotel deals on the Canadian side (see www.niagarafallslive.com for example).
If you're going all that way, you may as well spend the extra effort to cross over and enjoy the full/better experience. Yes, you'll need documentation from the parents of your niece.
If all you really want is a pool and a quick look (from an awkward angle), the American side will do.
All the major hotel chains are represented along Fallsview Boulevard on the Canadian side, with fabulous pools (not to mention views), with bargain rates in March.
There are lots of websites with all you need to know about viewing the Falls at night, along with some terrific hotel deals on the Canadian side (see www.niagarafallslive.com for example).
If you're going all that way, you may as well spend the extra effort to cross over and enjoy the full/better experience. Yes, you'll need documentation from the parents of your niece.
If all you really want is a pool and a quick look (from an awkward angle), the American side will do.
All the major hotel chains are represented along Fallsview Boulevard on the Canadian side, with fabulous pools (not to mention views), with bargain rates in March.
Mar 2nd, 2003, 06:08 PM
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If you are taking a child other than your own, you may have a problem when returning to the states. We had crossed over a few years back, and there were a couple children without parents [we had a large van and were at UB for a swim meet]. We were questioned for quite some time regarding the children, so your concerns are valid.
Honestly, although the views are impressive and the area is prettier on the Canadian side, there is still so much that is impressive to see on the American side as well. The river approaching the falls is awesome, and at night, the lighting along the river makes for a beautiful sight. The park does have a fee, as it is a state park. If you have a state park pass, then admission is free. Otherwise, I believe it is $4. However, even at night, with the park closed, there are still areas you can get to, and the walk is just a bit further.
Honestly, although the views are impressive and the area is prettier on the Canadian side, there is still so much that is impressive to see on the American side as well. The river approaching the falls is awesome, and at night, the lighting along the river makes for a beautiful sight. The park does have a fee, as it is a state park. If you have a state park pass, then admission is free. Otherwise, I believe it is $4. However, even at night, with the park closed, there are still areas you can get to, and the walk is just a bit further.
Mar 3rd, 2003, 04:28 AM
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Sorry to correct you BuffaloGirl, but if you want to drive into the state park, which is where the falls are on the NY side, then there is a charge, and it is all year long, even though most state parks stop charging after the summer is over. You can however, walk in for free. I've gone there countless times with friends and family over the last 6 years, the last time being last May, and we didn't have to pay because we have a State Parks Pass, but everyone WAS paying. First of all, the $4 is not exactly a problem, and second, you can park across the street somewhere and walk over, and then there would be no charge.
Mar 3rd, 2003, 07:32 AM
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a few suggestions...1. bring original birth certificates for all of the minors, especially if they do not have valid ID (driver's license). 2. bring a sworn statement (notorized) from the parents of your niece that she has been entrusted in your care for a specified period of time, authorizing you to seek medical treatment, etc. this will be hlepful at a border crossing and if your neice does require medical care. 3. Go over the border to get the best views of niagara falls. It really doesnt take much time. you can actually walk across the Rainbow Bridge which gives a beautiful view. Walking to the Canadian viewing area is a healthy walk from the bridge (and its even farther if its cold, like today -3). 4. You will get much more bag for your buck if you stay in Canada rather than the US. also, in Niagara Falls, the hotels in canada are much nicer than those on the US side. Have a good trip.
Mar 5th, 2003, 11:26 AM
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I was about to reply with similar to Rachel's. Get signed & notarized letter from the parents, carry ID, birth certificates, & should be okay. You could always call customs in advance to check what paperwork you might need to make travels smooth.
