The Niagara Falls State Park Welcome Center is open from January 2 to May 14, 8am to 6pm. From May 15 to May 22, it’s open 8am to 6pm weekdays and 8am to 8pm on Saturdays. During Memorial Day Weekend, it’s open 8am to 9pm. Check the park’s website for specific hours during other periods, as they vary by season and special holidays. The center is closed on November 27, December 25, and January 1.
Entrance to Niagara Falls State Park is always free to walk in and experience the Falls, open 365 days a year.
By Car: Accessible from New York state highways, with clear signage. From Canada, cross via Rainbow Bridge. Public Transportation: Regular buses and shuttles connect hotels, airports, and nearby areas to the park.
At Niagara Falls State Park, there are four parking lots. Lots 1 and 2 are for cars only, no RVs or buses, located at Prospect Point and Goat Island respectively. Lot 3 allows cars ($10), RVs ($20), and commercial buses ($35). Overnight parking is not permitted. Fees vary by season.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
Niagara Falls State Park, established in 1885 as the oldest state park in the USA, showcases the breathtaking beauty of American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and part of Horseshoe Falls. Key attractions include the Cave of the Winds, offering close-up views at Bridal Veil Falls, and the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour. Visitors enjoy scenic hikes such as the Devil’s Hole Trail, and nearby vacation rentals provide cozy cabins, modern homes with river views, and family-friendly amenities. A must-visit destination blending natural majesty with accessible adventures.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 9 500 000
- Established year
- 1885
Top 3 Facts about Niagara Falls State Park
The water plunges at 32 feet per second, hitting the base with 2,509 tons of force at the Horseshoe Falls, and 280 tons of force at the American and Bridal Veil Falls. This immense force is a result of over 3,160 tons of water flowing over the falls every second.
Home to American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and part of Horseshoe Falls; highest flow rate of any waterfall in North America.
Cave of the Winds allows visitors to experience Bridal Veil Falls up close via wooden walkways.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check official park website for hours, parking availability, events, and possible closures before visiting.
Pack Appropriately
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy, waterproof footwear for mist; dress in layers due to cooler temperatures near the falls.
Respect Wildlife
Use designated walkways and viewpoints; respect wildlife by observing from a safe distance and avoiding feeding or disturbing animals.
Stay Informed
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds; stay updated on weather forecasts, particularly in spring and winter months.
Seasons
Mild temperatures (50–70°F), thinning crowds, reasonable hotel rates, waterfalls at peak flow due to melting snow; excellent for hiking and photography, with occasional rain showers.
Peak visitation, comfortable temperatures (70–80°F), all attractions fully operational including Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds tours; higher crowds and hotel rates.
Stunning autumn foliage, cooler temperatures, fewer visitors, significantly reduced hotel prices; ideal for photography, hiking, and sightseeing with vivid fall colors enhancing the scenic beauty.
Serene, snowy landscape, fewer visitors, lowest hotel rates; majestic frozen waterfalls, excellent photography opportunities, indoor attractions open.