Passing through Niagara Falls International Airport? A layover in Niagara Falls is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 45 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at IAG:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the NFTA Bus Route 59 takes about 45 minutes into Niagara Falls, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Spend Your Time in Niagara Falls
Two recommendations for your time in Niagara Falls:
Start with Niagara Falls State Park. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. Then, if time allows, make your way to Maid of the Mist. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside IAG — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Hudson News
- Terminal Seating & Free Wi-Fi
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: The Como Restaurant and Top of the Falls Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Niagara Falls.
- At the airport: IAG Snack Bar – Hot Bites and IAG Snack Bar – Coffee & Pastries will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
The Best Way Into Niagara Falls from IAG
The most straightforward way into Niagara Falls is the NFTA Bus Route 59, which takes about 45 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 65 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the NFTA Bus Route 59 is usually the smarter call.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Niagara Falls might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$13 USD
- A meal: ~$25 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$48 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Niagara Falls, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near IAG
Dedicated luggage storage at IAG may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Niagara Falls’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and IAG is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Niagara Falls and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, IAG has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Niagara Falls with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Niagara Falls may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.