Rainbow Bridge Tours

Maid of the Mist featuring a river or creek, landscape views and a waterfall
Rainbow Bridge which includes a bridge, mist or fog and landscape views
Rainbow Bridge showing a bridge and a city
Rainbow Bridge featuring a bridge, landscape views and a river or creek
Rainbow Bridge which includes a bridge, fall colors and a river or creek


Walk, cycle, or drive across the border and enjoy an unimpeded view of Niagara Falls.

The Rainbow Bridge was built between 1940 and ’41 to replace the Falls View Bridge, which was also known as “Honeymoon Bridge.” It collapsed in January 1938, the result of an ice jam. The new bridge was constructed atop 50-foot (15-meter) abutments to avoid a repeat of the disaster. It is 950-feet (290-meters) long and sits 202 feet (62 meters) above the Niagara River. The bridge is on the border of Canada and the USA.

The origin of its name is lost in history, although the steel arc that supports the bridge offers one potential explanation. From Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side, the sight of a rainbow in the mist following the arc of the bridge is another explanation, especially appealing to the romantic.

The bridge is accessible to passenger vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians from each side, with a vehicle toll paid upon leaving the U.S. Pedestrians pay a small toll as they leave Canada.

Canadian and U.S. citizens who want to cross the Niagara River need a valid passport, enhanced (electronic chip) driver’s license, or Nexus card. The latter is available to those who frequently cross the border. Visitors from countries requiring a visa for visiting the U.S. or Canada must also have this ready to show.

If you have time, walk across the bridge in either direction for panoramic views of the American and Horseshoe falls. The river itself is also a great sight, with powerful currents and whirlpools indicating the awesome power of nature.

Stop and have your photo taken with one foot in Canada and one in the USA. Head to the bridge on a Friday or Sunday night between May and early September for the best vantage point for the nightly fireworks show above the falls. Be sure to take your passport or photo ID even if you are just taking in the views and intend to return to the same side.

Plan a trip to see Rainbow Bridge

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Buffalo Airport Hotel
Hyatt Regency Buffalo / Hotel and Conference Center
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Buffalo Airport

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Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Rainbow Bridge

Comfort Inn The Pointe

Comfort Inn The Pointe

3 out of 5
1 Prospect Pointe, Niagara Falls, NY
Comfort Inn The Pointe
Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino

Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino

4 out of 5
310 4th St, Niagara Falls, NY
Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino
Sheraton Niagara Falls

Sheraton Niagara Falls

4 out of 5
300 3rd St, Niagara Falls, NY
Sheraton Niagara Falls
Cambria Hotel Niagara Falls

Cambria Hotel Niagara Falls

3 out of 5
311 Rainbow Blvd, Niagara Falls, NY
Cambria Hotel Niagara Falls
Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls

Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls

3 out of 5
443 Main St, Niagara Falls, NY
Wyndham Garden at Niagara Falls
Quality Hotel & Suites At The Falls

Quality Hotel & Suites At The Falls

2.5 out of 5
240 1st Street, Niagara Falls, NY
Quality Hotel & Suites At The Falls
Hyatt Place Niagara Falls

Hyatt Place Niagara Falls

3 out of 5
310 Rainbow Blvd S, Niagara Falls, NY
Hyatt Place Niagara Falls
Wingate By Wyndham Niagara Falls

Wingate By Wyndham Niagara Falls

3 out of 5
333 Rainbow Blvd, Niagara Falls, NY
Wingate By Wyndham Niagara Falls
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York

4 out of 5
401 Buffalo Ave, Niagara Falls, NY
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Rainbow Bridge

When visiting Rainbow Bridge, you'll find plenty of exciting activities nearby, including thrilling boat tours and a lively casino. Don't miss the nearby theme park for family fun, and keep an eye out for star headliners performing in the area. Whether you're exploring the beauty of the bridge or enjoying entertainment options, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

The Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls, located 4 miles from Rainbow Bridge, offers a variety of family-friendly shopping options. For a unique experience, visit Village Vineyard Wine Boutique, just 6 miles away. If you're up for a drive, Shawnee Country Barns Antique Co-Op is 12 miles away for antique treasures.

Recreation

At Hyde Park Golf Course, enjoy a relaxing round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes, just 3 miles from Rainbow Bridge. For a more active experience, visit the Northtown Center at Amherst, 16 miles away, which offers a variety of sports facilities. Beaver Island State Park Golf Course, 11 miles away, combines outdoor beauty with great golfing.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Niagara Gorge Trail, a stunning hiking trail located 2 miles from Rainbow Bridge, offering breathtaking scenery. For a more relaxed outdoor vibe, explore the Amherst Canalway Trail, 16 miles away. For an adrenaline rush, visit Pole Position Raceway for karting, located 20 miles from the bridge.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, where you can enjoy gaming and romantic dining just 0.4 miles from Rainbow Bridge. For family-friendly fun, catch a movie at Niagara Adventure Theater, also 0.4 miles away, or head to Grand Island Fun Center for arcade adventures 6 miles from the bridge.

Find the best attractions near Rainbow Bridge

Visiting Rainbow Bridge near Niagara Falls offers a blend of natural beauty and adventure. Explore the breathtaking waterfalls and enjoy the scenic views at the nearby national parks. For those seeking cultural experiences, local event venues host various activities year-round. Don't miss the iconic Rainbow Bridge itself, which serves as a stunning backdrop for photos and memorable moments. Whether you're into outdoor adventures or simply soaking in the scenery, this area has something for everyone.

  • American Falls: Located 0.4 mile from Rainbow Bridge, American Falls offers a breathtaking view of cascading waters, perfect for couples seeking romance or adventure enthusiasts craving the great outdoors. The roaring sound of the falls adds to the enchanting atmosphere.
  • Niagara Falls State Park: Just 0.5 mile away, Niagara Falls State Park is a national treasure filled with scenic views and outdoor activities. Experience hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning vistas that make it an ideal spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
  • Maid of the Mist: A thrilling excursion located 0.2 mile from Rainbow Bridge, the Maid of the Mist boat tour takes you close to the falls. Enjoy unforgettable views while surrounded by friendly people, making it a memorable experience for all ages.

Best time to go to Rainbow Bridge

Visitor numbers around Rainbow Bridge is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Rainbow Bridge can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Rainbow Bridge falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Rainbow Bridge falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January26.1°F (-3.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February26.4°F (-3.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March34.3°F (1.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December33.6°F (0.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rainbow Bridge

To save money on your trip to Rainbow Bridge, consider visiting between January and March for lower hotel rates, with the cheapest stays typically on Tuesdays. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and look for package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Join the One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Additionally, explore free activities around Niagara Falls to enhance your experience without spending extra.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Rainbow Bridge are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Rainbow Bridge is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Rainbow Bridge is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and special offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay near Rainbow Bridge with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.