Is it better to stay on the US or Canadian side?

Short answer: Canadian side, no question. The view of the Falls from Canada is dramatically better—you see the full horseshoe curve of the Canadian Falls head-on, plus the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls in profile. On the US side, you’re basically looking at the side of the falls and a lot of industrial smoke stacks in the background. It’s not even close.

For hotels, the Canadian side has way more options right on the water with falls-view rooms (Embassy Suites, Marriott Fallsview, Sheraton on the Falls). Expect to pay $250-500+ a night for a decent fallsview room in peak season. The US side is cheaper but you’ll be in a casino hotel or a motel on a strip that’s pretty dead at night. Also, Canadian side has Clifton Hill for tacky fun, better restaurants, and the actual walking path along the gorge. The US side has the Cave of the Winds and the Maid of the Mist boat (which leaves from both sides, but the Canadian side boarding is less chaotic).

Only stay on the US side if you’re on a tight budget, want to avoid the crowds, or are just passing through for a day trip. Otherwise, pony up for Canada—you’ll actually see the falls without craning your neck.