An Unforgettable Road Trip from New York to Niagara Falls
Few places on earth are as magnificent as Niagara Falls if you’re looking for picture-perfect scenery.
Our preferred route for traveling by road from New York to Niagara Falls passes through Kingston, Woodstock, Albany, Syracuse, Finger Lakes, Rochester, Buffalo, and the Catskill Mountains. This 530-mile drive takes nine hours and twenty minutes to cover.
Ithaca and Seneca Falls are on another fantastic route choice. Continue reading to find out more about these two routes, where to make an overnight stay, and when to take this amazing journey.
The itinerary buttons below will allow you to view and interact with each of these routes. For in-depth explanations of either, continue reading this article.
Comparing two route options between New York and Niagara Falls
Are you trying to compare our two routes quickly? See how the routes compare to one another in the following table.
| Finger Lakes route | Catskills route |
| Distance 410 miles | VibesRiver and mountain views, Urban stops |
| Driving time 07 hours 30 min | 09 hours 20 min |
| Suggestion to take 3 days | Suggestion to take 4 days |
| Highlights IthacaFinger Lakes | Distance: 530 miles |
| VibesLakes and scenic towns | Vibes, river and mountain views, and urban stops |
| Best time for this drive Mid-Aug to November | Vibes, lakes, and scenic towns |
Comparisons of routes between New York to Niagara Falls
How long would the road trip take to go to Niagara Falls from New York?
The Finger Lakes Route is 420 miles long and takes around 7 hours and 50 minutes to drive from New York to Niagara Falls. The trip is not too difficult to finish in a single day.
However, because there is so much to see and do on the way to Niagara Falls, we advise allowing at least three days so that you can visit all of the cities, landmarks, and other sites along the way.
At 530 miles, the Catskills Route is the slightly longer option. Driving this alternative will take nine hours and twenty minutes, but the breathtaking views of the mountains and rivers will make up for the extra mileage.
Best route for a road trip from New York to Niagara Falls
It will be challenging to choose between the Finger Lakes and Catskills Routes for this road trip from New York to Niagara Falls because they both offer a wealth of scenery, charming villages, and exciting new locations to see along the way.
The Finger Lakes Route leads you to the Finger Lakes Region via a number of well-traveled paths through the center of New York’s renowned country. You will also have the opportunity to visit Ithaca, which is well-known for its waterfalls and canyons.
Along the way, you will pass the villages of Seneca Falls, Geneva, and Canandaigua, where you can enjoy stunning lake views. After that, you will continue to spend some time in the more urban areas of Rochester and Buffalo before arriving at Niagara Falls.
On the other side, the Catskills Route, which passes through the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains, is a photographer’s paradise. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to visit the bohemian village of Woodstock and get a personal look at its creative spirit.
The Sundown Wild Forest and the charming town of Catskill at the foot of the mountain are only two of the many hiking alternatives available, as you might expect. Before you arrive at your destination, you will also pass through Rochester and Buffalo on this route.
Itinerary A: New York to Niagara Falls through the Finger Lakes Route
| New York to Niagara Falls |
| The Finger Lakes Route |
| 420 miles (07 hrs 50 min) |
| Stop 02– (Binghamton, NY, A culturally rich city with beautiful parks, 90 miles (01 hour from MT Pocono |
| Stop 03- Ithaca, (NY Home to beautiful waterfalls, Taughannock Falls State Park, 50 miles 01 hour from Binghamton |
| Stop 05– Rochester, NY (Urban cityscapes on the bank of Ontario Lakes) 50 miles 01 hour from Seneca Falls |
| Stop 04- Seneca Fall, NY (The Birthplace of the women’s rights movement 40 miles (01 hour) from Ithaca |
| Stop 06- Niagara Falls, NY (World famous waterfalls ) 90 miles (01 hours 40 min) from Rochester |
| Stop 06- Niagara Falls, NY (World famous waterfalls ) 90 miles (01 hour 40 min) from Rochester |
Traveling from New York to Mt Pocono
90 miles (01 hours 50 min)
Drive down Interstate 80 (I-80) to Niagara Falls, leaving behind the famous view of New York City’s cityscape. You’ll soon have the opportunity to stop at the lovely amusement park, Land of Make-Believe, a terrific destination for family vacations.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a great place to spend some time on the first part of your travel, even if you might not expect breathtaking scenery to be so near the bustling metropolis of New York City.
Once you get there, enjoy the natural mountain views that envelop this tiny village, which is nearly at the top of Mount Pocono.
We suggest Fieldstone Farm Tank Creek Nature Preserve, a really picturesque park with stunning old farm ruins, if you want to enjoy the scenery.
Drive from Mt Pocono to Binghamton
90 miles (01 hours 25 min)
If, like us, you love trains, you should continue traveling northwest on I-380 from Mt. Pocono until you arrive in Scranton, where you can visit Steamtown National Historic Site!
Before reaching Binghamton, you will have the opportunity to make a short detour along this section of the route to enjoy the scenery of the stunning Tunkhannock Viaduct.
Drive from Binghamton to Ithaca
50 miles (1 hour)
Since it’s a short journey from Binghamton to Ithaca via I-81 and NY-79, take your time and take as many detours as your schedule permits.
We suggest a trip along the North Trail of the scenic Roy H Park Preserve and exploring the stunning Shindagin Hollow State Forest.
After parking your car and placing your keys away, you can visit the beauty of the gardens.
Taughannock Falls State Park is a breathtaking location with a lovely waterfall that is only a short drive from Ithaca. If you visit this state park in the fall, you will be treated to a breathtaking sight.
The stunning Inn at Taughannock Falls is ideal for visiting Ithaca and Taughannock Falls State Park. Located directly in the state park, which is reachable from the hotel via a trail reserved for guests, this inn is housed in a Victorian building built in 1873.
Drive from Ithaca to Seneca Falls
40 miles (1 hour)
You will follow the Cayuga Lake shoreline on this short NY-89 journey from Ithaca to Seneca Falls. Check out the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail if you have a designated driver or intend to visit the lake again.
On this portion of the trip, the Ulysses Historical Society, a brief detour in Trumansburg, is also a worthwhile destination, particularly for history buffs.
When you first get to Seneca Falls, you can read the Declaration of Sentiments and learn about the town’s contribution to the women’s rights movement at the Women’s Rights National Historical Park.
Montezuma National Nature Refuge is a stunning nature sanctuary if you want to spend some time outside.
Drive from Seneca Falls to Rochester
50 miles (1 hour)
You will go west on US-20 from Seneca Falls to Geneva, which is situated on Seneca Lake, and then halt in Canandaigua. You may stop here and have a look around the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail.
Take NY-332 and then I-490 from here. Before you go to Rochester, you can go to Mendon Ponds Park, where you can go fishing and even camp if you want to spend the night outdoor.
The Strong National Museum of Play is one of the greatest sites to see once you get to Rochester, especially if you have young children with you or are a kid at heart like us! The Rochester Museum & Science Center, or RMSC, is another fantastic destination for curious minds.
Drive from Rochester to Niagara Falls
90 miles (1 hour 40 minutes)
Since the drive from Rochester to Niagara Falls is the longest part of your trip, there will be a lot to see along the way. A pleasant detour from all the traveling is Akron Falls Park, a fantastic spot to stop and stretch your legs.
After traveling I-90, you will soon arrive in Buffalo, where you can stop by the Martin House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, before going on to Niagara Falls.
To see the magnificent waterfalls up close, make sure to reserve a seat on the Maid of the Mist boat trip as soon as you get to Niagara Falls. Remember that you will probably get wet, so bring clothing that can withstand water. Seasonal in nature, this tour only departs from April to November.
Since Niagara Falls is a well-liked tourist destination, there are plenty of lodging choices nearby. Although most of the other hotels are chain options, Butler House Bed & Breakfast is among the greatest and coziest choices.
The B&B is within a short stroll from Niagara Falls State Park. Just a mile away are The American Falls and the International Rainbow Bridge, which provide amazing views of the waterfalls from the Canadian side, which are only a mile apart.
Itinerary B: The Catskills Route from New York to Niagara Falls
| New York to Niagara Falls |
| The Catskills Route |
| 530 miles (09 hrs 20 min) |
| Stop 04-Syracuse, NYUrban Cityscape surrounded by scenic Countryside140 miles (02 hours from Albany |
| Stop 02- Catskill, NYScenic gateway for the Catskill mountains80 miles (01 hours 50 min) from Woodstock |
| Stop 03-Albany, NYNewyorks Capital with many cultural institution30 miles (35 minutes from Catskill |
| Stop 04-Syrause, NYUrban Cityscape surrounded by scenic Countryside140 miles (02 hours from Albany |
| Stop 05- Buffalo, NYRejuvenated city with a thriving food scene150 miles (02 hours 02 min) |
| Stop 06-Niagara Falls, NYOne of the world’s most famous natural wonders20 miles (25 min) from Buffalo |
Drive from New York to Woodstock
110 miles (2 hours 10 minutes)
Drive north out of the Big Apple and cross the Hudson River to begin your thrilling trip from New York to Niagara Falls. After passing Harriman State Park, you will turn onto I-87 and proceed north along the river.
There are several fascinating sites to see along the route, like the Oddball Motorcyclepedia Museum in Newburgh.
You would imagine that when you get to Woodstock, you’ll see the site of the iconic 1969 festival, but you’re mistaken! The actual festival was held in nearby Bethel rather than Woodstock.
You can visit the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum to discover more about this bohemian town’s history, or you can spend your time there having a spiritual experience at the Karma Triyana Dharmachakra.
Drive from Woodstock to Catskill
80 miles (1 hour 50 minutes)
You will be treated to breathtaking views of the Catskill Mountains on this section of the journey. On NY-28, you will pass through Big Indian Wilderness, and then the breathtaking Kaaterskill Falls on your journey to Catskill as you continue into the woods into Shandaken.
When you go to Catskill, enjoy the scenery. The spring and fall seasons are particularly beautiful in this region. After you’ve gotten enough of the breathtaking landscape, you may discover more about the artist and environmentalist who once called Catskill home by visiting Thomas Cole National Historic Site.
You can stop by the Crossroads Brewing Company for a bite to eat if you’re hungry from all the driving, but be aware that they only offer food while the food trucks are there.
You might wish to look for a lodging option that embraces its environment when searching for a place to stay in the breathtaking Catskill Mountains.
That is just what AutoCamp Catskills offers, this hotel is made up of log cabins and tents, which gives you the impression that you are camping outside while also offering fantastic facilities like kitchens in some of the rooms and a delicious breakfast.
Drive from Catskill to Albany
30 miles (35 minutes)
There are plenty of possibilities to take detours because the I-87 route from Catskill to Albany is so short. After all, if you had the time, why would you rush from one location to another?
This segment offers some amazing stops along the way, such as the historic Bronck Museum and Hannacroix Creek Preserve, where hikers may take in breathtaking views of the Hudson River. Forests and mountains will eventually give way to views of Albany’s urban landscape.
The New York State Museum is among the first locations we advise you to see when you get to Albany. The New York State Capitol, located in Albany, the state capital, is a wonderful destination to see for the structure’s structure alone is remarkable.
Drive from Albany to Syracuse
140 miles (2 hours 10 minutes)
As you leave Albany, turn onto I-90 and travel west, With almost 20 miles of officially designated paths, Albany Pine Bush Preserve is the ideal destination for quick walks if you’d like to enjoy some time in nature in between your city-to-city journey.
After your stay, continue on the expressway to Syracuse
When you arrive in Syracuse, one of your first stops should be the Everson Museum of Art. Both a permanent collection and constantly shifting exhibitions can be found at this museum.
During your city holiday, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a fantastic destination for family travelers. From magnificent elephants to little red pandas, this zoo is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife.
Drive from Syracuse to Buffalo
150 miles (2 hours 20 minutes)
You must continue west on I-90 past the lovely Finger Lakes region in order to get to Buffalo from Syracuse. The Finger Lakes Route itinerary above has further details if you would like to extend your vacation to see the well-known farms here.
If not, you can see the Richmond Aqueduct Ruins without stopping to see Seneca Falls by driving on the freeway. After that, you’ll continue westward to Rochester. Before continuing on the highway into Buffalo, you can stop by the Strong National Museum of Play here.
Once you arrive in Buffalo, you can visit Buffalo AKG Art Museum for an educational afternoon. From works of Delacroix to sculptures off Henry Moore, you will be amazed at how extensive this museum’s collection is.
For something different, Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum is home to antique vehicles, including bicycles and historic automobilia.
Drive from Buffalo to Niagara Falls
20 miles (25 minutes)
The shortest part of this trip is the drive from Buffalo to Niagara Falls, but don’t expect it to be a simple commute. As you travel north on I-190, you can stop at breathtaking locations like Buckhorn Island State Park and Niawanda Park.
The real waterfalls are the main attraction, so once you go to Niagara Falls, you should definitely go see them! Consider taking a Maid of the Mist boat trip to see them from a new angle.
Only available from April to November, this seasonal tour does fill up quickly, so reservations should be made in advance!
One of the greatest places to stay in Niagara Falls when it’s time to retire is Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. The hotel features a casino, spa, and several eating options in addition to its excellent location.
Ideal time to go on a road trip from New York to Niagara Falls
Regardless of the route you pick, this road trip from New York to Niagara Falls may be enjoyed year-round because it mostly travels on well-maintained roads on the Finger Lakes and Catskills Routes, even if it passes through mountainous terrain.
Irrespective of the route you pick, this road trip from New York to Niagara Falls may be enjoyed year-round because it mostly travels on well-maintained roads on the Finger Lakes and Catskills Routes, even if it passes through mountainous terrain.
Although Niagara Falls State Park is open all year round, summer is without a doubt the busiest season for visitors. All of the attractions on either route are open, and the average daily temperature rises to nearly 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Make sure to check out the Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance’s schedule if you’re on the Finger Lakes Route in July.
Nevertheless, summertime brings more visitors and more costs. If you want to avoid the crowds, you might want to visit Niagara Falls in September or in early spring, when you can also take in the blooming flowers and trees.Make sure to check out the Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance’s schedule if you’re on the Finger Lakes Route in July.
Nevertheless, summertime brings more visitors and more costs. If you want to avoid the crowds, you might want to visit Niagara Falls in September or in early spring, when you can also take in the blooming flowers and trees.
Springtime temperatures should range from 25 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. On both itineraries, you may take in Rochester’s Lilac Festival if you travel in May.
In the fall, Niagara Falls will experience temperatures ranging from 35 to 70 degrees. The Hudson Valley’s Catskills Route changes with spectacular fall foliage during this time of year. Due to the grape harvest season, this is also an excellent time to set off on the Finger Lakes Route.
We suggest seeing the Woodstock Film Festival in October if you’re traveling in the fall. In September, you may also enjoy some fantastic music at the Niagara Falls Blues Festival.
You may witness the breathtaking daily fireworks at Niagara Falls if you go between May and October.
Niagara Falls experiences extremely cold winters, with typical highs of 28 to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter offers the chance to witness the falls partially frozen or covered in snow, despite the cold.
| The Finger Lakes Route | The Catskills Route |
| Land of Make Believe | Motorcyclepedia Museum, Newburgh |
| Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area | Catskill Park, Kingston |
| Camelback Mountain Adventures | The Woodstock Artists Association & Museum |
| Fieldstone Farm Tank Creek Nature Preserve | Karma Triyana Dharmachakra, Woodstock |
| Tunkhannock Viaduct | Big Indian Wilderness, Claryville |
| Ross Park Zoo | Kaaterskill Falls, Hunter |
| The Roberson Museum and Science Center | Thomas Cole National Historic Site |
| Shindagin Hollow State Forest | Crossroads Brewing Company |
| Roy H Park Preserve – North Trail | Bronck Museum |
| Taughannock Falls State Park | Hannacroix Creek Preserve |
| Ulysses Historical Society | New York State Capitol, Albany |
| Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, Romulus | Albany Pine Bush Preserve |
| The Women’s Rights National Historical Park | The Everson Museum of Art |
| Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge | Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Syracuse |
| Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail | Museum of the National Rod and Custom Car Hall of Fame |
| Mendon Ponds Park, Honeoye Falls | The Strong National Museum of Play |
| The Strong National Museum of Play | Buffalo AKG Art Museum |
| RMSC (Rochester Museum & Science Center) | Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum |
| Akron Falls Park | Niawanda Park, Tonawanda |
| Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House | Buckhorn Island State Park, Grand Island |
A summary of the sights on each route between New York and Niagara Falls
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth driving to Niagara Falls from New York?
One of the greatest ways to visit stunning, historic, and culturally significant sites in Upstate New York is to take a road trip from New York City to Niagara Falls. Although the journey may be finished in a single day, stopping for a few nights and seeing the sights along the way is far more enjoyable.
Where should I stop, between New York and Niagara Falls?
Letchworth State Park and the Finger Lakes Region are two excellent stops between New York City and Niagara. To understand what I mean, look them both up online.
Can you do a day trip from New York to Niagara Falls?
If you plan to take a day trip to Niagara Falls, keep in mind that it will take 19 hours altogether and leave early in the morning. I advise you to bring some food because the trip takes about seven to eight hours.
How many days do you need to visit Niagara Falls, NY?
two to three days.
For a trip to Niagara Falls, how many days are required? In general, two to three days is a good enough time to see the major attractions of Niagara Falls.
Which US city is close to Niagara Falls?
Buffalo
The city and port of Niagara Falls is located in Niagara County in western New York, USA. Approximately 8 miles (15 km) northwest of Buffalo, it is located at the Niagara River’s Great Falls, across from the city of Niagara Falls, Ontario.
which month is best for Niagara?
The best time to visit Niagara Falls is June to August. Summer is peak season and with good reason: Average highs rest in the low 80s. Mists and breezes from the waterfalls can make the area feel cooler.
For more details kindly visit https://www.discoverniagara.org/
