we are going to niagara falls on july 4.(buffalo).Shall we stay in buffalo or canadian side?

Definitely the Canadian side is better, although now you need passports to get into the country, but I don't think clearing customs is required. But the Canadian side is beautiful with lots more to do and see and far less commercial than the American side. The Canadian horseshoe falls are far more spectacular as well, and I believe that the Maid of the Mist (not to be missed!) departs only from the Canadian side. There's also a tramway that goes across the Niagara River (truly amazing whitewater) from the Canadian side, and a tunnel that comes out right under the falls. You can even take a speedboat ride on the Niagara River. Whatever you do, bring raingear because you ARE going to get wet! And don't miss seeing the falls at night, when they are lit with colored spotlights.

Barbara K. is wrong. You do not need passports until 2008 if you are driving.

The Canadian side at Niagara is much nicer and better (and safer!). But here is an even better suggestion: go a few miles further and stay (more cheaply) in the wine growing area between St-Catharines and the picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Yes, you need to clear customs each time you cross the border. Americans tend to hassle much more than the Canadians.

The Canadian side is developed and beautiful. It also has the "horseshoe" portion of the falls, the best view. The American side is rather dull and not as exciting.

Trivia facts about Niagara Falls:

As you watch the falls realize that only half of the Niagara Rivers volume is actually flowing over the falls, the other half is diverted up stream for use in producing electricity.

The original generators designed by "Nikola Tesla" were the first to use "alternating current" was as a power source.

With the terrorist situation in the world today, you will have to clear customs each time you cross the border. However, on the July 4th weekend you might find it easier to find a place close to the falls, since this is not thier holiday; whereas, most of the hotels on the US side will probably be booked well in advance (and often more pricey due to the holiday - Americans are notorious for gouging folks on those 'special' days when we are out 'en mass').

In any case, enjoy your trip. Wish I were there. Love the falls. Haven't seen them in several decades...

Any travel agent that is familiar with the area will tell you that the Canadian side is far better for enjoying the falls, scenery, etc. No fault of the U.S., it's just how things are situated.

If your priority is ease of travel and convenience with regard to border crossing, then the U.S. side is where you'd prefer.

Have a great time!

Canada side is nicer. We just came from Niagara falls a few months ago. There is NO customs, just need a passport. Customs is for airports.

its a hassle to clear customs to cross all the time. I would stay on the buffalo side.

hey,

bring up your imps and husband and have a great time.

You're our cousins, so we splash out in July 1 and July 4.

in my opinion the canada side is much more interesting.