The Best Hotels Near Niagara Falls

It may not be the prettiest stay in the area, but this Marriott is decidedly more upscale than what you’re used to. Of the 432 rooms, many categories offer tricked-out amenities like river views and whirlpool tubs, sitting areas, fireplaces, and panoramic vistas of the falls. The best way to cap off your day of sightseeing is with dinner on the terrace at Terrapin Grille, a prime spot for taking in the nightly light show. Other perks: the indoor pool and full-service spa.

Despite its proximity to a casino and conference center, this 669-room high-rise is a top choice for families who want to stay in the center of it all but still have space to spread out. The two-room suites are especially nice for groups, with set-ups that include king-sized beds for the parents and fun bunks for the little ones. (The indoor and outdoor pools are also a hit, as is the skywalk connection to an indoor waterpark.) Request a room on a higher floor for better views—or one with a balcony for taking in the water or gardens outdoors. Not willing to splurge on a view? You can still spot the falls from several places in Queen Victoria Park, just across the street.

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This quaint 110-room sleep, built in a converted 1904 flour mill on a quiet hill above downtown, feels more like a rustic lodge thanks to details like original stone walls in the bar and a log fire in the restaurant—though more modern addition keeps it up to date. After a few laps in the indoor pool, guests can be found hanging out in the clubby bar with a drink or in the leafy central courtyard. While it's a nice and unique alternative to the behemoth chains nearby, rooms here are a bit hit or miss: the more contemporary rooms have had recent renovations, while the quirky vintage décor and aging air conditioners and TVs in older rooms could use an update.

It’s the boutique-like details that set The Tower Hotel apart from its neighbors. The look inside is bold and modern: you’ll find a bright palette of whites, grays, and purples dominating both guest rooms and public spaces, as well as funky accents like bead chandeliers, zebra-print fabrics, and high-backed banquettes. Along with a café, there’s a casual Mediterranean restaurant on the 26th floor with gorgeous views of the falls.

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On the American side of the falls, this 1929 Art Deco gem is a real find. Each of the 41 rooms is stylish and charming, with bold artwork and brocade bed throws (some even have fireplaces). While not tricked out with spas, casinos, or restaurants with views of the falls like other hotels in the area, the Giacomo still offers its own set of creature comforts including free WiFi, valet parking, a breakfast buffet, and cookies at turndown. Our favorite space is the 19th-floor Skyview Lounge, where you can spy Canada beyond the falls’ famous mist cloud.

If you don’t mind making a bit of a trek to the main attraction, we'd recommend Hudson House Hotel. A half-hour drive from the falls brings you to Niagara-on-the-Lake and this shingled, three-story inn. Each of its 31 cozy rooms and suites come with working gas fireplaces, feather-topped beds, and spacious bathrooms featuring either soaking tubs or double-head showers. Of course, you’ll want to spend as much time by the water as possible—but we suggest sticking around for the free breakfast buffet (don't miss the blueberry French toast) and returning in time for the daily wine tasting, which spotlights local vineyards.

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