Road Trip:
New York City to Niagara Falls

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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Niagara Falls on an unforgettable road trip from New York City. As you embark on this adventure, rent the perfect car, immerse yourself in the rich history of the falls, and explore the stunning attractions that await you. Let's dive in!

History of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls has captivated visitors for centuries with its raw power and natural splendor. Formed over 12,000 years ago, these majestic falls straddle the border between the United States and Canada. Comprised of three separate waterfalls – Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls – Niagara Falls has a combined flow rate of more than 3,000 tons of water per second. In addition to its geological importance, the falls have played a pivotal role in North American history, from hydroelectric power production to daredevil stunts.

View of the falls

What Kind of Car You Should Rent to Get to Niagara Falls

Kyte offers a wide range of vehicles to suit your preferences and needs. For a smooth and comfortable ride, consider a sedan or a premium car. If you're traveling with a larger group or need extra cargo space, a full-size SUV will do the trick. No matter what you choose, Kyte's seamless, hassle-free service delivers the car directly to you, so you can hit the road with ease.

How to Get to Niagara Falls from New York City

From Manhattan, begin by getting onto George Washington Bridge/Interstate 95 Upper Level S/US-1 Upper Level S from Riverside Dr, which takes approximately 24 minutes for 5.9 miles. Next, follow Palisades Interstate Parkway N and I-87 N to NY-17 W in Woodbury, taking exit 16 from I-87 N; this leg covers 45.3 miles in about 43 minutes. Continue onwards to Windsor for 121 miles, a journey that takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes. From there, take I-81 N and I-90 W to US-62 N/Niagara Falls Blvd in Niagara Falls, taking exit 22 from I-190 N; this stretch spans 244 miles and takes roughly 3 hours and 40 minutes. Lastly, follow US-62 N about 5 minutes. By following these directions, you'll arrive at the breathtaking Niagara Falls, ready to explore its myriad of attractions and natural wonders.

The Route from JFK International Airport

Kyte doesn’t currently service JFK International Airport, but if starting your journey from there: From JFK International Airport, start by getting on I-678 N from 130th Pl, and head south on I-678 S for a short distance. Merge onto 130th Pl and turn right onto Bergen Rd. Take the 5th exit at Federal Circle onto the I-678 ramp. Continue on I-678 N, I-80 W, I-380 N, and I-81 N to Niagara Falls, taking exit 22 from I-190 N. From I-190 N, follow US-62 N.

The Route from LaGuardia International Airport

Kyte doesn’t yet service LaGuardia International Airport, but take these directions if you’re going to be starting your journey nearby. Begin your journey from LaGuardia Airport by getting on the Grand Central Parkway, which takes about 3 minutes for 0.8 miles. Next, follow I-95 N, I-287 W, and I-87 N to NY-17 W in Woodbury, taking exit 16 from I-87 N; this leg covers 67.6 miles in approximately 1 hour and 8 minutes. Continue onwards to Windsor for 121 miles, a journey that takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes. From there, take I-81 N and I-90 W to US-62 N/Niagara Falls Blvd in Niagara Falls, taking exit 22 from I-190 N; this section of the route covers 244 miles and requires roughly 3 hours and 40 minutes. Conclude by following US-62 N.

The Route from Newark Liberty International Airport

If you're starting your journey from Newark Liberty International Airport and plan to meet us at Newark Penn Station, follow these directions:

1. From Newark Liberty International Airport to Newark Penn Station:

    • Take the AirTrain from the airport, which operates 24/7.

    • Connect to NJ Transit at Newark Liberty International Airport Train Station.

    • Board an NJ Transit train to Newark Penn Station, which is just a few stops away (approximately 10 minutes).

    • Alternatively, you can opt for a bus or taxi to Newark Penn Station.

    • Once you're at Newark Penn Station, Kyte's seamless service will handle your car handover, so you can start your journey towards the spectacular Niagara Falls with ease.

2. From Newark Penn Station to Niagara Falls:

    • Start by getting onto I-280 W from Raymond Blvd.

    • Follow I-280 W and I-80 W to US-209 N in Middle Smithfield Township.

    • Continue on US-209 N. Take PA-33 N, I-80 W, and I-390 N to I-290 W in Amherst, NY.

    • Use the right 2 lanes to merge onto I-290 W toward Niagara Falls.

    • Merge with I-190 N and follow the signs to Niagara Falls.

    • Take exit 22 from I-190 N to get to US-62 N/Niagara Falls Blvd in Niagara Falls.

    • Conclude by following US-62 N to reach the breathtaking Niagara Falls.

Safety Tips for Driving From New York City to Niagara Falls

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, follow these essential tips:

    • Plan ahead: Check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting off. Be prepared to adjust your route or schedule if needed.

    • Stay rested: Fatigue can lead to dangerous driving. Make sure to get a good night's sleep before your trip and take breaks as needed.

    • Buckle up: Always wear your seatbelt and ensure all passengers do the same.

    • Obey traffic laws: Follow speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs.

    • Stay alert: Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions like texting or using your phone while driving.

    • Be cautious: Give yourself ample space between your car and the one ahead, and drive defensively.

Attractions in Niagara Falls

From thrilling water sports to serene hiking trails, there's no shortage of activities and attractions to enjoy at Niagara Falls.

Hornblower tour

Water Attractions

A boat tour from Maid of the Mist or Hornblower Niagara Cruises is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed during a visit to Niagara Falls. As you approach the falls, the sound of the water crashing down becomes more and more intense, until you're finally enveloped by the mist and spray. The feeling of being so close to the powerful natural wonder is truly awe-inspiring. For those seeking an even more adventurous experience, jet boating or white-water rafting on the Niagara River is a must-try.

These heart-pumping activities offer a thrilling ride through the rapids, with the added bonus of breathtaking views of the falls and surrounding landscapes. However, these activities are not for the faint of heart and require a certain level of physical fitness and endurance.

Hiking and Biking

Niagara Falls State Park is a nature lover's paradise, with miles of scenic trails and paths to explore. The Niagara Gorge Rim Trail offers breathtaking views of the Niagara River and its rapids, as well as stunning panoramas of the falls themselves. This trail is perfect for hikers of all levels, with options for shorter or longer hikes depending on your preference.

The Great Gorge Railway Trail is another popular choice, winding through lush forests and along the river's edge. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Cave of the Winds tour is a must-see. Here, visitors can walk on wooden walkways that lead to the base of Bridal Veil Falls, feeling the cool mist and spray on their faces. It's a truly exhilarating experience that provides an up-close-and-personal look at the power of the falls. Additionally, the park offers a variety of other activities, including fishing, picnicking, and even golfing.

Shopping and Dining

Niagara Falls is not just a destination for outdoor activities and natural wonders but also a shopper's paradise with a diverse array of shopping options. The Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls, located just a short drive away from the falls, is a premier shopping destination featuring over 200 designer and brand-name stores. For those who prefer a more quaint shopping experience, the charming towns of Lewiston and Niagara-on-the-Lake offer a unique selection of boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. These towns are also home to a number of artisanal food shops and markets, where you can sample local cheeses, baked goods, and other specialty items.

Regarding dining, Niagara Falls offers a range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. From casual eateries and food trucks to upscale restaurants and wineries, there is no shortage of delicious food to enjoy. Niagara-on-the-Lake is particularly renowned for its culinary scene, with several award-winning restaurants and wineries that offer farm-to-table cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.

Events in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a year-round destination that offers a diverse range of festivals and events that cater to all tastes and interests. One of the most popular events is the Winter Festival of Lights, which runs from November through January and features a spectacular display of colorful lights and interactive installations. Visitors can enjoy nightly fireworks, live music, and holiday-themed activities that add to the festive atmosphere.

Another major event in Niagara Falls is the Niagara Falls International Film Festival, which takes place annually in September. The festival showcases a variety of independent films from around the world, along with workshops, panel discussions, and networking events for filmmakers and film enthusiasts.

For those who appreciate a good glass of wine, the Niagara Wine Trail events are a must-visit. The region is home to over 20 wineries that produce a variety of award-winning wines, from crisp whites to bold reds. The Niagara Wine Trail events include tastings, food pairings, and vineyard tours, providing a unique opportunity to explore the region's viticulture and sample some of its best wines.

Conclusion

A road trip from New York City to Niagara Falls promises a journey filled with wonder, excitement, and unforgettable moments. With Kyte's convenient and hassle-free car rental service, you'll be well on your way to exploring the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls and all it has to offer. So buckle up, hit the road, and let the adventure begin!

People observing Niagara Falls up close