Choosing where to stay while on vacation is often as significant as choosing the vacation destination itself. It could either heighten or diminish your experience. While considering a trip to the iconic Niagara Falls in the United States, one question that typically pops up is should you lodge in downtown Niagara Falls or venture slightly out of town to Buffalo?
To offer an informed perspective, this article will steer towards the marvel that is the Niagara Falls and why staying in its vicinity, precisely in its downtown hotels, offers the best tourist experience.
When visiting Niagara Falls, the primary attraction that lures tourists worldwide is, undeniably, the majestic falls themselves. There is a genuine magic in the ability to wake up, throw open the hotel curtains and behold the splendour of one of nature's most spectacular spectacles. Numerous downtown hotels like the Sheraton Niagara Falls, the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino, the Hyatt, the Giacomo and others offer exactly this incredible privilege, not to mention top-notch amenities, luxurious rooms, and premium service. Their strategic downtown location not only provides awe-inspiring views but also convenient access to the waterfall.
Being at the heart of the action brings numerous attractions within your grasp. Aside from the falls, downtown Niagara is replete with sites that promise endless adventure. From the Cave of the Winds, which allows you to feel the rush of the mighty Niagara literally on your cheeks, to the adrenaline-charged Jet Boat rides in the Niagara River and the breathtaking bird-eye view on Goat Island at the Prospect Point Observation Tower, downtown Niagara is every adventure enthusiast’s dream.
Beyond nature and adventure, the local life, culinary experience, and culture that downtown Niagara Falls offer are worth exploring. It is rich in local and international cuisine, ensuring gastronomic delight to all kinds of food lovers. Many of these hotels also feature onsite dining facilities that give a taste of local dishes along with global favourites. The nightlife, especially, thrives with Casinos and vibrant pubs like The Third Street Tap Room and Wine on Third, presenting another slice of what downtown Niagara is all about.
In contrast, choosing to stay in Buffalo would invariably mean facing commutes back and forth. While Buffalo has its unique charm and appeal, it lacks the close proximity to the awe-inspiring waterfalls. Niagara Falls is roughly a 20-30 minute drive from Buffalo, meaning more time spent on the road and less time immersing oneself in the extraordinary natural spectacle that is Niagara.
While some argue that the hotels in Buffalo may come cheaper, considering the costs, time, and convenience of being a stone’s throw from your primary destination - Niagara Falls - should put things into perspective. A few dollars saved could pale against the myriad opportunities and moments missed.
All said, your choice would still hinge on personal preferences. But, for a truly immersive Niagara Falls experience, a stay in the heart of downtown Niagara offers undeniably tantalising prospects. Make the majestic falls your alarm clock, get caught up in the high spirits of downtown, and have the vacation of a lifetime in Niagara Falls, USA.