Is the Nexus pass worth it for Niagara Falls crossings?
Yes, absolutely worth it if you're crossing the border more than once in a year, or even once during peak season. The Nexus pass lets you skip the regular car and pedestrian lines at the Rainbow Bridge and Whirlpool Bridge, which can be a 45-minute to 2-hour wait on a summer weekend. With Nexus, you use dedicated lanes and kiosks — usually under 5 minutes. It costs $50 USD for 5 years, so if you're making even two round trips from the U.S. side, it pays for itself in time and frustration.
No, don't bother if you're only crossing once and staying on the Canadian side. Just use the Rainbow Bridge on foot or by car — it's the most scenic and has direct access to Clifton Hill. The Whirlpool Bridge is Nexus-only for vehicles, so you won't get that perk. Also, keep in mind you need to apply in person for an interview at a Nexus enrollment center (like the one at the Rainbow Bridge), so it's not a same-day thing. Plan ahead if you want it for a future trip.