Explore Niagara Falls from Toronto: A Hassle-Free Guide to Public Transportation
Have you ever wondered how to get to Niagara Falls from Toronto without a car? I’ve always been captivated by the power and beauty of Niagara Falls. Over the years, I’ve visited countless times, sometimes with a car and sometimes not. To my surprise, exploring the area car-free turned out to be incredibly easy. In fact, the well-connected public transportation system and walkable paths made the trip even more enjoyable. If you’re considering a car-free adventure to Niagara Falls, this guide is for you! While the exact distance between Toronto and Niagara Falls can vary depending on your chosen route, most travel options take between 1.5 and 2 hours, making it an easy day trip.
Niagara Falls from Toronto By train
The fastest and easiest way to get to and around Niagara Falls without a car is to go by rail. Not only can you avoid traffic, but you can also get there faster and with less stress. The number of times I’ve sat in gridlock getting out of and into Toronto makes me appreciate taking the train even more.
Via Rail
VIA Rail offers a comfortable and scenic journey from Toronto’s Union Station to Niagara Falls. Tickets can be booked online via the VIA Rail website or in person at Union Station, and it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. Trains usually depart from Union Station, located at 65 Front Street West, so ensure you arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. The journey takes approximately two hours, providing a relaxed and scenic view of southern Ontario. You’ll arrive at Niagara Falls Station, located at 4267 Bridge Street, and from there, it’s a short taxi or bus ride to the falls.
GoTransit
GO Transit has train service to Niagara Falls all year long making it a great option for a leisurely trip. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station, and trains depart from Union Station. Weekend and holiday services are available, so check the GO Transit website for specific times. The best part is that you can save on your adventures (which I absolutely love!) by getting combo tickets which gives you a pass that could include Round Trip Tickets for the Metrolinx GO Train, Unlimited Niagara Falls WEGO Bus Usage for 48 Hours, Unlimited Falls Incline Railway 48 Hours Niagara-on-the-Lake Shuttle Service depending on which pass you get. The journey is approximately two hours, and trains arrive at Niagara Falls Station, where local transit or taxis can take you to the falls.
VIA Rail and GO Transit both offer comfortable and scenic train journeys from Toronto's Union Station to Niagara Falls Station. Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book, but generally range from around $30 to $70 for a round-trip ticket. VIA Rail offers a more premium experience, while GO Transit provides a more budget-friendly option with frequent service throughout the week. The journey takes approximately two hours, with both trains arriving at Niagara Falls Station. From there, you can take a taxi, local bus, or the WEGO system to reach the falls
By Bus
GoTransit (Bus)
GO Transit offers both bus and train services, but the bus route is often more direct and frequent. Purchase tickets online, via the GO Transit app, or at Union Station. Buses depart from the Union Station Bus Terminal, located at 81 Bay Street. The Niagara Falls route (Route 12) is direct and runs several times a day. The bus journey takes about two hours and 15 minutes. Buses drop off at the Niagara Falls Bus Terminal, located at 4555 Erie Avenue, a short distance from the falls.
FlixBus
FlixBus offers affordable and convenient bus services from Toronto to Niagara Falls. Tickets can be purchased online or via the FlixBus app. Buses depart from various locations in Toronto including Union Station and Scarborough, which can be convenient for people that do not live downtown. The journey takes approximately two hours, and the drop-off location is centrally located near the falls.
MegaBus
Megabus Canada provides a budget-friendly option with multiple daily departures from Toronto to Niagara Falls. Tickets can be booked online, and buses depart from the Toronto Coach Terminal at 610 Bay Street. The travel time is around two hours, and buses arrive at the Niagara Falls Bus Terminal. You’ll get cheaper options when you book early morning times like 6:30am. It was only $9.99 the last time I tried to book!
Red Arrow ON
Red Arrow ON offers premium bus services with comfortable seating with built inside headrests and onboard amenities like free wifi and USB outlets on every seat, and free snacks and drinks (love it!). Tickets can be purchased online, and buses depart from the Toronto Union Station (Inside CIBC Square, Northeast corner of Bay and Lake Shore Blvd). The journey takes about two hours, and buses arrive at the Niagara Falls Bus Terminal.
While Megabus offers the most budget-friendly option, other bus companies like FlixBus and Red Arrow typically fall in the $40 to $60 range for a round-trip ticket
By Shuttle
Niagara Airbus
For a more direct and personalized service, consider the Niagara Airbus. Reservations can be made online through the Niagara Airbus website. The shuttle offers hotel pickup services, making it convenient for tourists. Travel time varies depending on pickups, but it typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The shuttle drops you off directly at your Niagara Falls destination.
By Rideshare
Ridesharing offers a convenient and flexible option, but with some important considerations. In fact, when I first explored Niagara Falls back in 2020, I used a ridesharing service. While services like Uber and Lyft operate between Toronto and Niagara Falls, their cost can be high, especially compared to other options. For a more budget-friendly and environmentally conscious carpooling option, consider Poparide. One thing I love about this app is that you can find a ride share within your budget. This platform connects drivers with passengers heading to the same destination. Simply sign up on the Poparide website or app, search for available rides from Toronto to Niagara Falls, and book a seat with a driver traveling on your preferred date and time.
By Bicycle
If you’re up for an adventure and enjoy cycling, you can bike from Toronto to Niagara Falls. This guide is quite helpful if it’s your first time experiencing this route. The Waterfront Trail stretches from Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake, and from there, you can continue to Niagara Falls. The entire trip is around 130 kilometers, so it’s suitable for experienced cyclists. Ensure your bike is in good condition, and carry sufficient water, snacks, and a repair kit.
By Tour Operator
Guided Tours
For a hassle-free Niagara Falls experience, consider joining a guided day trip from Toronto. These tours typically range from $100 to $200 per person, depending on the inclusions and duration. Many tour operators offer packages with transportation, guided commentary, and additional activities like Hornblower Niagara Cruise tickets, meal vouchers, or entry fees to attractions like Journey Behind the Falls. Popular companies include Niagara Day Tour, Queen Day Tour, AirLink, and City Sightseeing Toronto. These tours often include pickup from central Toronto locations or major hotels, and make stops at key attractions like the Niagara Parkway, the Whirlpool Rapids, and even local wineries. Relax and enjoy the journey while an experienced guide handles the logistics and shares their insights about the area.
Things to do in Niagara Falls
Once you arrive at Niagara Falls, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Here is a summary below:
- Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Horseshoe Falls,, and Bridal Veil Falls.
- Take a boat ride with Hornblower Niagara Cruises to the base of the falls for an up-close experience.
- Explore the tunnels in the Journey Behind the Falls tour that take you behind the falls.
- Visit Clifton Hill, a vibrant street offering entertainment, dining, and attractions like the Niagara SkyWheel.
- Stroll through beautiful parks and gardens, including the Butterfly Conservatory and the Botanical Gardens, as part of the Niagara Parks.
WEGO Bus System
Once you arrive in Niagara Falls, consider using the WEGO bus system for convenient transportation between the major attractions and your hotel.
Conclusion
Traveling from Toronto to Niagara Falls without a car is straightforward and offers multiple options to suit different preferences. Whether you choose the comfort of a train, the directness of a bus, the convenience of a shuttle, the flexibility of a carshare, the adventure of cycling, or the ease of a guided tour, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience at one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Plan ahead, choose the best travel method for you, and enjoy your journey to Niagara Falls!
