
In-Depth Guide: Buffalo Airport to Niagara Falls
Introduction:
Niagara Falls, one of the most amazing natural scenes in the world, attracts millions of tourists every year. The Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) is a popular gateway for travelers visiting the majestic falls. This in-depth guide will help you navigate from Buffalo Airport to Niagara Falls, covering various transportation options, distances, approximate travel times, and helpful directions to make your journey as smooth as possible.
1. Transportation Options:
a. Shuttle Services:
Several shuttle services operate between Buffalo Airport and Niagara Falls, offering convenient and comfortable transportation. These shuttles usually run on a fixed schedule; some provide door-to-door services. Prices vary but expect to pay around $25-$60 per person, depending on the shuttle service and time of day. Some popular shuttle services include:
– Buffalo Super Shuttle
– Niagara Airbus
– Buffalo Airport Shuttle
b. Taxi or Rideshare Services:
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are available at Buffalo Airport. The fares can range from $80-$120, depending on traffic and time of day. The advantage of using a taxi or rideshare service is the convenience of door-to-door transportation and flexibility in scheduling.

c. Public Transportation:
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) operates the public transit system in the region. To get to Niagara Falls from the airport, take Bus #24 (Genesee) to the Buffalo Metropolitan Transportation Center downtown. Then, transfer to Bus #40 (Buffalo-Niagara Falls), which will take you directly to the Niagara Falls transportation center. The total cost for this trip is around $5, but it may take 2-3 hours, depending on wait times and connections.
d. Car Rentals:
Renting a car is a good choice for those who prefer to explore the area at their own pace. Several car rental companies have shops at the Buffalo Airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Rates will vary depending on the type of car, rental duration, and insurance options.
2. Distance and Travel Time:
The distance between Buffalo Niagara International Airport and Niagara Falls is approximately 26 miles (42 kilometers). Travel time depends on the mode of transportation:
– Shuttle Services: 45-60 minutes
– Taxi or Rideshare Services: 30-45 minutes
– Public Transportation: 2-3 hours
– Car Rentals: 30-45 minutes
3. Tips for a Smooth Journey:
a. Plan:
Research transportation options and book your preferred choice in advance to ensure a stress-free trip. This is particularly important if traveling during peak tourist seasons or holidays when transportation services demand may increase.
b. Border Crossing:
If you plan to see the Canadian part of Niagara Falls, remember to bring your passport and any necessary visas, as you’ll need to cross the international border.
c. Explore the Region:
Aside from the iconic Niagara Falls, the region offers many other attractions, such as wine-tasting tours, historical sites, and scenic drives. Renting a car allows you to explore these attractions at your leisure.
Conclusion:
Traveling from Buffalo Airport to Niagara Falls is relatively straightforward, with multiple transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. By planning and considering your priorities, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to this stunning natural wonder