Niagara Falls, NY is about 20 miles north of Buffalo. The nearest major airport is Buffalo Niagara International (BUF), a 30-minute drive. New York City is about 7 hours by car via the I-90 or Amtrak's Empire Service (about 8–9 hours by train to Niagara Falls station). Amtrak runs daily service on the route.
From the Canadian side, the city is accessible across the Rainbow Bridge or Whirlpool Bridge — US citizens and legal residents need a valid passport or NEXUS card. The border crossing usually takes 20–45 minutes. Many visitors base themselves on the Canadian side (Niagara Falls, Ontario) for its better hotel selection and views, and visit the American side on a day trip.
Within the city, free shuttle buses run between major tourist sites in the state park area in summer. A car is useful for reaching the power station ruins and other sites north of the falls.