driving nyc to niagara falls

hi
how long does it take to drive from new york city to the falls.
so how easy is it to cross the border and do we need just are passports, or special visas?

thanks.

Driving across the border, or parking on the New York side and walking across the border to the Ontario side?

What's your nationality?

It's around 420 miles or so. Good roads all the way and should take you about 8-9 hours. Start off about 6am, I would suggest a stop off for lunch in Buffalo, then it's another couple of hours from Buffalo to Niagara Falls. The US side is quite a let down - and NF City is not a nice place generally. Definately a no-no after dark too, unless you know where you're going. The Canadian side, in contrast, is lovely and much cleaner.

Depends on your nationality.

You definately need your passports. Check with the Canadian authorities prior to entering with regards to any visa requirements. If you are from a Commonwealth country, it is usually not a problem. Also tell the US CBP when crossing that you are visiting the falls if you are concerned about re-entry.

Canadian Falls are so much better. I wouldn't even bother with the US side, unless you have the time. Also, if you get time visit Niagara on the lake (small village of Niagara), heaps of history there and a great place for a meal.

Post#4#kevandshan.... Is Niagara on the Lake - the same place as Niagara Falls City, or is it on the Canada side??
I was in Niagara Falls City (NY) and it wasn't nice at all (sorry to any residents living there - no offence intended whatsoever).

Niagara on the lake (Canadian side). There is also some cool historical parks there and around fought between the French and the British (and the Americans).

I spent 5 days doing the Falls......saw them from every angle, and while they were great...I believe the town and the forts are definately worth the visit (especially if you're remotely interested in the Independence of Canada and teh US and the struggles and battles fought). The forts are a highly recommended visit.

I stayed in Buffalo for couple weeks, nice little town (big once) but as a tourist you would be better served nearer the Falls.

Check these links

http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/on/fortgeorge

http://honeymoons.about.com/od/niagarafalls

Yeah - like you, I thought Buffalo was OK. One thing that got me, was just how busy the airport is. I've no idea how many passengers it serves, but we were in the city near a big shopping mall and the planes were coming over every 90 seconds or so, continuously. Great city though, with tons of interesting history.