Worth the Drive: Niagara Falls, NY
Worth the Drive: Niagara Falls, NY
When it comes to unforgettable road trip destinations, we often overlook the wonders right in our own backyard. Niagara Falls, NY, is one such hidden gem that offers an incredible experience for travelers seeking natural beauty and thrilling attractions.
Convenient access for Western and Central New Yorkers
Living in Western and Central New York has its perks, including easy access to the spectacular Niagara Falls. As you plan your road trip, consider taking advantage of AAA's services. From getting your car battery checked with the AAA Mobile Battery Service to packing an affordable and comprehensive AAA emergency road trip kit, these preparations ensure peace of mind. Additionally, the TripTik travel planner helps you map out stops along the way, and the AAA Mobile app provides information on the cheapest gas stations and exclusive AAA discounts, making your trip even more rewarding.
Day 1: Discovering Niagara Falls' charm
After a scenic drive, we checked into the Sheraton hotel, perfectly situated in an ideal location near Old Falls Street. This vibrant area has an array of activities, restaurants, and bike rentals. The hotel itself offers an incredible experience for families, with its fantastic pool area that not only includes a large pool and comfortable seating, but also aquarium tanks the kids will love. Plus, as AAA Members, we enjoyed exclusive benefits such as saving 5% or more on bookings and earning Marriott Bonvoy™ points when reserving AAA rates.
Eager to explore, we took a short walk to Niagara Falls State Park, where we were greeted by breathtaking views of the falls, including the famous Maid of the Mist boat tour. The park provided a mesmerizing experience, allowing us to witness the sheer power and natural beauty of the cascading water. As our stomachs rumbled, we came across a diverse range of restaurants, culinary schools, food trucks, and more.
Pro tip—AAA Members can enjoy a 10% discount on food, non-alcoholic beverages, and merchandise at the Hard Rock restaurant.
As we walked down Old Falls Street, we took in the picturesque scenery and stumbled upon the Instagrammable mural "Let's Fall in Love." And the fun continued as we played outdoor games like giant checkers, connect four, cornhole, and ping pong.
Pro Tip: For art enthusiasts, Art Alley on Third Street showcases 19 captivating murals by talented artists.
Day 2: Thrills and natural beauty await
Waking up early, we packed some water and granola bars as we set out for Whirlpool State Park, a short drive away. From the top, this landmark offered breathtaking landscapes from elevated viewpoints. We continued to the intermediate hike which started with a long staircase and eventually reached the flat rocks that provided stunning panoramic views. Be prepared for stairs and some light rock climbing. The views were amazing!
After our hike, we wanted to cool off and booked a Whirlpool Jetboat tour—an experience not to be missed. The exhilarating adventure allowed us to witness Niagara's Devil's Hole Rapids in the most unique way possible. We braved 15'-20' waves, currents with speeds reaching 20 mph (32 km/h) and embraced the thrill of a class 5-rated tour. For those who preferred a drier option, a covered boat was available. With a short drive from Niagara Falls, the tour starts and ends in Lewiston, NY.
Pro Tip: Thanks to our AAA Membership, we even enjoyed an $8 discount, making the experience even more valuable.
Day 3: Exploring the underwater world
On our final day, we took a short drive to the Aquarium of Niagara. This attraction showcased an impressive variety of aquatic life, including their entertaining sea lion shows held multiple times a day. We were enthralled by these graceful creatures, learning about their rescue stories and talents. The facility itself was a treasure trove, housing numerous species such as lionfish, turtles, seahorses, jellyfish, clownfish, and puffers. A highlight was the opportunity to interact with the stingrays at the pet tank. The aquarium, home to over 100 species of fish and invertebrates, also offered a glimpse of rescued seals.
PRO TIPS: As AAA Members, we enjoyed a $1 discount on admission, further enriching our experience.
Additional AAA Membership perks in Niagara Falls
AAA Members have the added advantage of accessing various discounts and benefits at Niagara Falls' restaurants, attractions, hotels, and more. By taking advantage of these exclusive offers, you can make the most of your road trip while saving money along the way. From dining to accommodations and local attractions, AAA Membership provides an extra layer of value to your adventure.
Niagara Falls, NY is a hidden gem awaiting discovery in your own backyard. Planning a short road trip to this destination, you'll leave with unforgettable experiences. From the mesmerizing falls to the vibrant surroundings and thrilling attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Download the AAA Mobile app, plan your road trip, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of Niagara Falls.
Looking for more to do in Niagara Falls, New York? Find hotels, attractions, restaurants, and more in our Travel Guide.