The Distance Between Buffalo and Niagara Falls

Introduction

The distance between Buffalo and Niagara Falls is just 21 miles (34 km), making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway. This popular route offers travelers a wide range of attractions, including the beautiful Niagara Falls, natural conservation areas, and a rich history that spans more than 200 years. Whether you’re looking to explore the depths of the falls or take in some of the great cultural offerings in Buffalo, here’s how to plan your journey between these two iconic cities.

The easiest way to get from Buffalo to Niagara Falls is to take Interstate 190 southbound straight through both locations. With an estimated travel time of roughly 45 minutes depending on traffic, this is a convenient and direct route for travelers. While this provides an efficient way to cover the distance between each location at speed, it does miss out on some fantastic local sights and experiences along the way.

Location of Buffalo and Niagara Falls

Buffalo and Niagara Falls are two cities located in the state of New York. Buffalo is located in western New York, while Niagara Falls is located in the north. The two cities are separated by a distance of approximately 33 miles.

By car, the drive between Buffalo and Niagara Falls usually takes about an hour, depending on traffic. In this article, we’ll go over the exact distance between the two cities, as well as the driving route from Buffalo to Niagara Falls:

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo, New York, serves as the westernmost city in the state and is located at the confluence of Lake Erie and the Buffalo River.

Buffalo is located approximately 20 miles east of Niagara Falls, which forms part of both the border between Canada and the United States, as well as part of a continuous water connection through to Lake Ontario to the north.

Because of its location at a point where currents form a natural gateway from one lake to another and its proximity to Niagara Falls, Buffalo was historically important for trade and transportation in early America. Today, it is an important economic hub for the region due to its thriving industries such as manufacturing, industry related technologies, health care services and tourism.

The average driving time from Buffalo to Niagara Falls is approximately 30 minutes. Both cities are served by multiple highways including Interstate 90 (the New York State Thruway) that run directly between them. Additionally, regional bus service also provides transportation options for traveling between these two cities with a travel time of approximately one hour.

Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls, New York is approximately 15 miles from Buffalo, New York. This distance can be traveled by car in about 24 minutes. Situated on the ends of the Niagara River, which links Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. In fact, when measured by volume of water moved while cascading over its brink, Niagara Falls ranks second only to Iguazu in terms of the world’s biggest waterfalls.

Tourists visiting both Buffalo and Niagara Falls can enjoy a variety of activities during their visit. In Buffalo, attractions include Darwin Martin House Complex, Tim Hortons Field Tours and The Linwood Historic District. Those visiting Niagara Falls can experience aerial tours on helicopters or take an exploration adventure on the Maid of the Mist boat tour up alongside Horseshoe Falls – one of two major waterfalls which make up the entire site known as Niagara falls. Other activities offered around the area are casino gaming at Seneca Resorts & Casinos resorts, bird watching at nearby state parks or tasting local wines from Ontario and New York State wineries.

There’s plenty to explore in both cities for visitors no matter what their interests might be!

How far is Buffalo New York from Niagara Falls?

The distance between Buffalo, New York and Niagara Falls, Ontario is approximately 51 miles. Driving this distance would take a little over an hour depending on traffic. This distance is relatively short and easy to cover, making Buffalo a great place to visit if you’re looking for a quick getaway.

Let’s take a closer look at the distance between these two cities and how to get there:

By Car

The distance between Buffalo, New York, and Niagara Falls is approximately 24 miles by car. Depending on the route chosen, the length of drive time can range from 30 minutes to an hour or longer. It is an easy trip to make as there are a number of direct routes taking you straight to your destination. You will likely drive most of the way on I-190N entering onto the Canada/US border via Queen Elizabeth Way or Rainbow Bridge if you choose to drive over the border into Canada. Have your passport handy if you plan on stopping in Canada!

By Air

The distance between Buffalo and Niagara Falls by air is approximately 32 km (20 miles). This distance can be covered in an average of 18 minutes. Taking a plane is the fastest way to get from Buffalo to Niagara Falls, however, it may not be the most cost effective or convenient option depending on departure times and availability of flights.

For passengers who prefer to travel in a more leisurely fashion, many transportation companies offer cruises down the Niagara River from Buffalo to Niagara Falls. This leisurely two-hour voyage allows passengers a great opportunity to take in some of the stunning scenery along the river as well as arriving at the falls with plenty of time for sightseeing. Additionally, for travelers who want to make it an overnight trip, several tour companies also offer packaged tours that take visitors from Buffalo to Niagara Falls and back within one day.

By Train

The closest Amtrak train station to Niagara Falls can be reached by catching a train from the Buffalo/Exchange Street Station, located approximately 8 miles south of downtown Buffalo. The total travel time by rail is approximately 35 minutes, with a fare of roughly $23 one-way. Please note that Amtrak trains run on limited days and times and schedules should be confirmed prior to travel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is clear that the distance between Buffalo and Niagara Falls is 83 miles. Although this distance is drivable in less than two hours, visitors should plan on taking time to experience both cities as well as the area in between.

Those who enjoy nature may choose to camp at one of the many parks in the area, while urbanites may find that they prefer a stay at one of the many hotels or inns within driving distance of both cities. No matter how travelers choose to spend their time, a road trip from Buffalo to Niagara Falls provides a memorable journey full of natural and cultural attractions.