You can see the falls for free.

Yes. You don’t need a ticket to see the main attraction. The state or provincial parks that front the falls have free public access—walk-in, no entrance fee. In Niagara Falls, NY, Prospect Point and the area around the falls are open to anyone. On the Canadian side, Queen Victoria Park is also free to enter. You’ll pay for parking, but the view itself costs exactly zero dollars.

The paid attractions (like Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist, or Skylon Tower) are extras. They get you closer, wetter, or higher. But the main overlooks? Free and spectacular. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Just bring your own poncho if you want to get soaked.