A Day on the Discover Niagara Shuttle

Park your car, grab the kids and head for the Discover Niagara Shuttle. With complimentary on-board Wi-Fi and nearly 30 stops along the way, this free hop-on/hop-off shuttle service is the easiest way to get where you are going. Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, a bite to eat or just want to soak it all in, these Discover Niagara Shuttle itineraries will have you on your way.

Itinerary One: Falls to the Fort Route

This shuttle route heads north from Niagara Falls, NY and makes stops in Lewiston and Youngstown.

Stop One: Third Street Entertainment District

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at Power City Eatery on 3rd Street, known for their delicious egg sandwiches. Their house-made breads and pastries are ideal for taking along for snacking all day on-the-go. Take a post-breakfast stroll down Art Alley NF and enjoy 19 colorful murals made by local artists. Tip: Grab lunch to-go, or even a few snacks to enjoy on the road!

Stop Two: Aquarium of Niagara

Seals, stingrays, penguins, oh my! With more than 120 species of aquatic animals, tours and interaction experiences, this aquarium is not to miss. Enjoy daily sea lion shows, feedings and the M&T Bank Shark & Ray Bay Touch Pool. Adventure and excitement wait for both adults and kids alike.

Stop Three: Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center

After the aquarium, hop back on the shuttle or take the walking trail north to the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center. Discover the rich history of the freedom seekers and the abolitionists who bravely facilitated freedom for the oppressed, including American icons such as Harriet Tubman. Located in the 1863 U.S. Customs House, the Center should take an hour to tour, including exploring the interactive exhibits which keep alive the stories of the Underground Railroad. Check out the nearby outdoor murals for additional exploration.

Stop Four: Whirlpool State Park

Stretch your legs with a walk on one of the easier trails in spectacular Whirlpool State Park, making sure to pause on the overlook (which is wheelchair accessible) to stand 300 feet above the majestic Niagara Whirlpool. Head to the picnic area for lunch before you hop back on the Discover Niagara Shuttle.

Stop Five: Niagara Power Vista

Ever wondered how the Falls are used to generate power? Take an interactive and educational stop at the Power Vista and enjoy touch exhibits, videos, game challenges, a virtual reality ride – and free admission! Pick up a POWER PLAYER badge at check-in and receive content tailored to your age level.

Stop Six: Old Fort Niagara

Immerse yourself in American history at Old Fort Niagara, which has been standing guard in one form or another since the late 1600s (it changed hands from France to Britain to America over time!). See an original War of 1812 flag, see a historical musket firing and take a guided tour of the fort and grounds.

Stop Seven: Lewiston Waterfront

End your day with a beautiful view from the Lewiston Waterfront while enjoying delicious food and a cold pour from the extensive craft beer menu at the Griffon Brewery and Gastropub. Browse the boutique shops at nearby Center Street and grab a sweet treat at the Village Bake Shoppe or Hibbard’s Original Frozen Custard.

Itinerary Two: Love the Lockport Loop

This shuttle route heads east from Niagara Falls, NY and makes stops at the most popular Lockport attractions. The Lockport Loop continuously stops at eight Lockport locations, all situated near the historic Erie Canal.

Stop One: Erie Canal Discovery Center

Head back 200 years to the 1820s to discover how the canals shaped commerce and transport from New York to the Midwest. This multimedia museum has plenty of interactive exhibits to keep the youngest in your crew engaged — and don’t forget to visit the gift shop for a memento on the way out. Need a refreshment? Grab a treat at Lake Effect Ice Cream or Steamworks Coffee. On Saturdays, enjoy fresh produce and snacks at the farmer’s market.

Stop Two: Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises

Next, hop on a narrated two-hour cruise that will take you back through time on the scenic waterways of the Erie Canal, under lift bridges and being raised and lowered 50 feet in Locks 34 & 35. After your cruise, grab a bite to eat at nearby Lock 34 Bar & Grill — something Canal-themed, perhaps, like The Tugboat (aka a beef on weck, a Western New York specialty).

Stop Three: Wide Waters Marina

Time to relax! Whether you’re a beach or a kayak person, you’ll find an option that suits at the Wide Waters Marina. Rent a kayak through the Erie Canal Boat Company, or enjoy walking paths and playgrounds if the little ones need to let off some steam. Once you’re cleaned up, pick up a crowd-pleasing dinner at local landmark Marvins at Widewater, which first opened in 1961 (get their famous curly fries!).

Stop Four: Historic Theatre District

If the schedule lines up with your trip, catch a show at the Historic Palace Theatre, which first opened in 1925 and retains all the glamour of the Roaring ’20s.

Learn more about the Discover Shuttle here and start your perfect day.