Weekend: Chasing waterfalls in NY

Another road trip to get you exploring! 

Day 1 - explore Niagara Falls, NY. If you're able and there's no pandemic, add an extra day to go to the Canadian Side of the falls. Unfortunately, during this trip I was only able to visit in the United States. There are a lot of beautiful things to do, though! 

Parking in town or on the street will cost you $20. Instead, drive into the "park" at the falls and park all the way down on Three Sisters Island. This should cost you $10 and it won't be as busy. There is a bathroom there and a few picnic tables. 

From there, you will see some beautiful waterways, some smaller falls, and other cool areas. You can then take about a 10-15 minute walk along a big grassy path that will lead you to the busier area where EVERYONE is looking at the falls. I liked that I could have some time to myself by the Three Sisters Island area. Check out the falls and decide if you want to do some of the more touristy activities on the US side. 

https://www.niagarafallsusa.com/

There are places to eat, buy snacks, and buy souvenirs along the way. I like to take a book and find a (somewhat) quiet space to observe everything that is happening. 

Then maybe do something much louder, like head to the casino or the mall and see lots of people! 

Still have time? Either before or after stopping at the falls, stop in Buffalo and have some chicken wings! It's a fun low-key bucket list item: eating Buffalo Wings in Buffalo New York. 

Days 2 and 3: Leave Niagara and head to Letchworth State Park in New York to see some other falls. This park is amazing and has lots of different trails. If you'd like paved paths, you can do the overlook path that spans many miles. If you'd prefer to see the falls and the woods, there are plenty of hikes there too! Stop at the visitor center for maps and more information. Though, you can go here and start planning your trip now: 

https://parks.ny.gov/parks/letchworth

Spend the night in the park and use the second day to do even more hiking. This park has some breathtaking views! Mt. Morris at the northern end of the park has lots of restaurants and some small shops. Depending on where you stay in the park, this might be a great place to get some dinner! Nunda, to the south, is very small but has a Dollar General for any quick and urgent needs.