How to Get from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake (Best Travel Options)

If you’re planning a day trip from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake, you’re in for a memorable getaway. These two beautiful destinations are just under 30 km apart, making it easy to add a little extra charm to your Niagara adventure.  Whether you’re in the mood for a scenic drive or a peaceful bike ride along the Parkway, there are several great ways to make the journey.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and plenty of reasons to stop and explore. And once you arrive, Niagara-on-the-Lake welcomes you with its award-winning wineries, boutique shops, fantastic restaurants, and lovely waterfront views. 

Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to get to Niagara-on-the-Lake from Niagara Falls!

1. Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake by Car

Driving is the fastest and best way to get from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake, if you have a car. The trip takes about 25–30 minutes depending on traffic, and you’ll be treated to scenic views along the Niagara Parkway—a road once called “the prettiest Sunday drive in the world” by Winston Churchill.

Navigating Niagara tip: Take the Niagara Parkway for a scenic and relaxing ride. This road hugs the Niagara River and passes wineries, historic sites (like McFarland House which is a fantastic spot for afternoon tea!), picnic spots, cherry picking and peach picking farms, and lookout points. 

Parking in NOTL: There’s metered parking in town and paid lots near Queen Street. In the busy summer season, arriving early helps you score a good spot.

2. By Niagara-on-the-Lake WEGO Shuttle

If you don’t have a car, the second best option to get to Niagara-on-the-Lake from Niagara Falls is by taking the Niagara-on-the-Lake Shuttle, if you’re visiting during the typical tourist season which is from mid-April through mid-October. 

This shuttle connects to the WEGO bus service which extends past the Green Line’s Floral Clock stop. You can purchase an all day pass either at the Floral Clock or at Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake. 

Adults 13+: $25 – if you have purchased the Niagara Falls Adventure Plus Pass, your Niagara-on-the-Lake Shuttle is included!
Children 3-12: $15
Spring hours: 10:30 am – 6:30 pm departing every hour on the half hour from the Floral Clock and returning every hour on the hour from Fort George.
Summer hours:  9:30 am – 7:30 pm departing every hour on the half hour from the Floral Clock and returning every hour on the hour from Fort George.

3. Niagara-on-the-Lake Guided Tour

Of course, if you want to explore the best of what Niagara-on-the-Lake has to offer, the simplest and most cost effective way to do that is by taking a guided tour from Niagara Falls! Plenty of these tours depart from Toronto too, which is an added bonus if this is where you’re visiting from.

These tours will shuttle you to the highlights along the Niagara River to Niagara-on-the-Lake and either give you some free time in the historic area of NOTL or stop by a few wineries.

Some tours like this Niagara Falls Tour with Cruise and optional lunch from Niagara  offers bundling the thrilling boat cruise experience with lunch and Niagara-on-the-Lake, making it more of an added-value bang for your buck option!

There are plenty of tours to choose from, depending on what you really want to see. If you don’t want to piece your day together on your own and buy separate tickets, a guided tour may be the best option for you.

4. Niagara-on-the-Lake by Bike

If you’re up for some fresh air and gentle exercise, biking from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake is a fantastic option. The Niagara River Recreation Trail is a paved, dedicated path that stretches 56 km from Fort Erie to NOTL. The portion between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake is just under 25 km and mostly flat.

You’ll pass wineries, parks, historic landmarks, and scenic overlooks along the way, and an ideal ride great for all fitness levels.

If you don’t have your own bike, there are bike rental shops in both Niagara Falls and NOTL, and some offer one-way rental packages or pickup services. If you’re in Niagara Falls, a great option is Snap E Bike Rentals.

We also see the Zoom Leisure Bike rentals all over the place in Niagara-on-the-Lake and they offer by the hour, half day and full day rental pricing!

5. By Taxi or Uber

If you’re looking for a convenient door-to-door option, a taxi or rideshare (like Uber) will get you there quickly. It’s more expensive than public transit (and the most expensive options as a whole), but great if you’re short on time or travelling with a group.

Estimated cost: Around $60-$100 round trip, depending on the time of day and traffic.

6. By Foot

While I wouldn’t normally recommend this because it would take ALL day, you do have the option if you really wanted to, to hike to Niagara-on-the-Lake from Niagara Falls.

From Clifton Hill it’s a length 22 km, but it is a scenic stroll along the Niagara Parkway. The path leads through quiet Queenston Village and connects with the Bruce Trail side trail.

The Bruce Trail begins from Queenston Heights, and one of the side trails (called the General Brock Side Trail) leads into Niagara-on-the-Lake. It’s a stunning, leisurely walk along the Niagara River and past wineries, historic sites, and peaceful viewpoints. From Queenston Heights it’s 12 km which would take you anywhere from 1.5 hours – 2.5 hours.

This would be something you’d need to stay over in Niagara-on-the-Lake for, and maybe pamper yourself with a spa visit at Pillar and Post or Spa at Q, or luxurious afternoon tea!