Niagara Falls, ON and Niagara Falls, NY is a short drive away from both Toronto (1 h) and Buffalo (30 min). The surrounding areas have wonderful hikes, such as the Gorge Trail or if you're feeling adventurous, a boat tour on the Maid of the Mist. It is definitely a site to visit. We recommend prioritizing the Canadian side if time is limited, the view is amazing and definitely once in a lifetime experience.
20 min away from Niagara Falls is the cute town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Explore the surrounding wineries (our favourites include Wayne Gretzky Estates, Konzelmann Estate Winery, Inniskillin Wines, Trius Winery & Restaurant, Peller Estates) and shops, restaurants, and bars located in the heart of the town.
We have called Buffalo our home for the last 7 years and the city has a ton to offer. Some of our favourite places to go are the Buffalo AKG Museum, Delaware Park, Canalside, Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, Forest Lawn Cemetery, Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House, Buffalo River Tours. If you have the time, we highly recommend taking some time to explore the city!
It's not a visit to Buffalo without trying some wings and Beef on Weck. Our favourite places in the city are Bar-Bill (North location is 20 min away from the Buffalo Airport) and Gabriel's Gate. Get medium wings with blue cheese sauce and beef on weck with extra horseradish. Pair it with some great local beers like Ellicottville Brewing Company's Blueberry Wheat or Big Ditch's Hayburner.