Canada, New York, Western New York
15 Gorgeous Boutique Hotels in Niagara Falls for a Lovely Vacation
Welcome to Niagara Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world and also a region that spans two countries, several towns, and countless attractions. With so much to see and do in the Niagara Falls area, it’s no wonder that travelers from all over the world flock to this region to experience its charm and excitement. And while there are many options for accommodations in Niagara Falls, cute boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts offer a charming and personalized experience to make their stay extra special. In this article, we’ll explore the very best boutique hotels in Niagara Falls and highlight what makes them stand out in a sea of options.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Region + Which Towns to Stay In
Niagara Falls, one of the most stunning waterfalls in Western New York, straddles the border of two countries and flows through various towns. The American side, boasts two major waterfalls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls. While the Horseshoe Falls, the largest and most impressive waterfall, is shared between the U.S. and Canada. So when referring to Niagara Falls, it could mean different things: the falls themselves, the city of Niagara Falls in New York, the city of Niagara Falls in Canada, or the general region.
Both sides of the Niagara Falls region offer beautiful state parks where visitors can experience the falls up close, each with its own charm. While the debate on which side is better – the Canadian or American – lingers on, both sides offer fun outdoor activities, guided experiences, and tours that cater to every traveler’s needs. So don’t forget your passport and experience all the best things Niagara Falls has to offer.
Here are the top towns and cities that we recommend basing yourself out of, when visiting in the Niagara Falls region:
- Niagara Falls, NY
- Niagara Falls, Canada
- Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada
- Youngstown, NY
- Buffalo, NY
Charming Boutique Hotels in Niagara Falls + Bed & Breakfasts
1. The Butler House
The Butler House remains one of the best little boutique hotels in Niagara Falls. Located in the center of Niagara Falls, NY, you can view the Skylon Tower and the Rainbow Bridge to Canada from your doorstep. You’ll find the Niagara Falls State Park and other wonderful attractions within a 10-minute walk. Enjoy your free breakfast before you go out for a day of sightseeing, they’ll even help you book your tours and get your tickets. The rooms are bright and uncluttered, with a seating area for your comfort. Book Here.
- Location: Niagara Falls, NY
- Cost: $$$
- Rating: 9.6/10 (Expedia) | 9.8/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: Full breakfast included
2. South Bridge Bed & Breakfast (Private Beach!)
If you’d like to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then check out the river-front South Bridge Bed & Breakfast. Located on Grand Island, you can stay right along the Niagara River in this stunning cape-like home. What’s great about this is that you’re located about halfway between the falls and the city of Buffalo, a central location for some fun day trips from Niagara Falls.
Sit out on the terrace or your private patio to enjoy a morning cup of coffee or relax on their private beach and rent some kayaks to enjoy the river yourself. This is perfect for families, friends, or a romantic getaway for two. Book here.
- Location: Grand Island, NY
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 9.7/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: included
3. Blue Gables Bed & Breakfast
Queen Victoria Park is only 2 miles away from the Blue Gables Bed & Breakfast! This location is perfect for visiting all the top attractions on the Canadian side of the falls, which we love! Enjoy spacious rooms with air-conditioning and a filling breakfast menu that should suit all tastes. Relax on their terrace and gardens. Book Here
- Location: Niagara Falls, Ontario
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 9.4/10 (Expedia) | 9.5/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: included
4. Riverbend Inn and Vineyard
Riverbend Inn and Vineyard is one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in Niagara Falls. Located in the historic old town of Niagara-on-the-Lake and the wine district of Ontario! Enjoy the food from their on-site restaurant, Oakland’s Dining Room, and sip away at the 1890s salon bar and vineyard. Explore their terrace and garden and relax in this rural setting. On colder nights, sit by the fireplace and enjoy the subtle touches of luxury. Book here.
- Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 9.0/10 (Expedia) | 8.6/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: not included but available at the restaurant
5. 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa
If you love old-town charm then book a stay at 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa, located in the heart of the historic district of Niagara-on-the-Lake. A modern hotel with a Victorian flair to match its surroundings, you can enjoy meals at their on-site restaurant, Treadwell Cuisine. Or you can opt for the more modern amenity of Starbucks (just next door). Here, you’re in the heart of wine country and have several wineries within a 5-minute drive, not to mention the astounding tours of the area. Book here.
- Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
- Cost: $$$
- Rating: 9.2/10 (Expedia) | 8.6/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: a la carte
6. The Juniper Inn
Minutes from a beach, The Juniper Inn is perfect for travelers seeking an artistic ambiance. The rooms are themed and some come with views of the lake. It’s a great location within a few minutes’ drive of top attractions like the Butterfly Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. They even allow your favorite furry friends for a small fee! Book here.
- Location: St. Catherine’s, Ontario
- Cost: $$$$
- Rating: 9.6/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: NOT included
7. The Mansion on Delaware Avenue
This historic gem is in the city of Buffalo, just 25 minutes driving to the falls or close to many other epic day trips from Buffalo. This absolutely stunning building is a restored historic mansion with butler services. It’s in the center of everything, including close to Shea’s Performing Arts Center. The Buffalo waterfront is only two miles away. If you stay in, you can enjoy a cocktail by the fireplace or play pool in the salon. Book Here.
- Location: Buffalo, NY
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 9.2/10 (Expedia) | 8.8/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: included
8. Reikart House
The Reikart House is located just outside the city of Buffalo in Amherst, NY. This hotel is close to many wonderful things to do in Buffalo, but just a 20-minute drive to all the attractions that Niagara Falls has to offer. The hotel has nice clean styling, a fitness center, and is pet-friendly. Enjoy a meal at the Parlor Room, their on-site restaurant. If you’re going to see a show or out for a night on the town, they have dry cleaning and laundry services to spruce things up. Book here.
- Location: Amherst, NY
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 9.6/10 (Expedia) | 9.2/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: available with a surcharge
9. Pillar and Post Inn & Spa (Hot Springs!)
The Pillar and Post Inn offers a heated pool and hot springs! You can dine-in at the Cannery Restaurant or walk out on the town to the many shops and restaurants. They also have a wine bar and pub on-site for your enjoyment. Their 100 Fountain Spa has an indoor pool, sauna, and hot springs alongside a fitness center to truly make your stay enjoyable. They even have daily activities like yoga and pilates. Book here.
- Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
- Cost: $$$$$
- Rating: 8.9/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: not included
10. The Homestead
This cozy house rental comes with a heated pool right in the middle of Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake. Take a 15-minute stroll and check out the main street with all its restaurants and shopping. Relax the evening sipping at the wine you bought at a local winery (5 minutes away) on the wrap-around porch, or host a family gathering in the backyard. This beautiful property can easily sleep 9 people for a wonderful family get-together. Book Here.
- Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
- Cost: $$$$
- Rating: 4.9/5 (Vrbo)
- Breakfast: n/a
11. Niagara River Inn
Why not rent a waterfront house for the weekend away? Enjoy kayaking on the Niagara River from your own private dock. There’s plenty of outdoor entertaining to be had with a fire pit, pool, hot tub, and patio. Located on Grand Island, there’s plenty to do in both Buffalo and Niagara Falls. It’s a great jumping off point for day trips to Canada or exploring our favorite things to do in Rochester. If the weather’s bad, the game room supplies plenty of indoor fun for the family too! Book Here.
- Location: Grand Island, NY
- Cost: $$$$
- Rating: 4.9/5.0 (Vrbo)
- Breakfast: n/a
12. The Red Coach Inn
What catches the attention of this wonderful little inn is the Tudor styling hinting at the historic nature of the building. Located right on the edge of Niagara Falls State park you wouldn’t have to worry about parking fees when you could walk to the main attraction. An on-site restaurant will cook your breakfast each morning just how you like it and you can relax at the bar/lounge after a long day of sightseeing, or enjoy your jetted bathtub in your private room. Book your room now.
- Location: Niagara Falls, NY
- Cost: $$$
- Rating: 9.0/10 (Expedia) | 8.5/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: available for order
13. Serene Niagara Inn
This cozy inn offers views of the river and a short walk to the Rainbow Bridge. Here, you can stay close to attractions while steering clear of the hustle and bustle of the city. With Canada’s top attractions all within 5 miles of the inn, you can see and experience the best they have to offer after a free Irish or English breakfast. If you need some downtime, they have a wonderful garden to relax in after a long day out. This little inn is popular with couples looking for a serene stay. Book here.
- Location: Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 9.4/10 (Expedia) | 9.3/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: Full Breakfast included
14. Sterling Inn & Spa
On the outside, this hotel may look like your regular chain hotel, but the facade is fooling. The inside of the ,mk is the epitome of luxury hotels in Niagara Falls. Enjoy some downtime in the Spa for a massage or melt your woes away in the hot tub. If you need some extra calorie burn despite all your sightseeing you can enjoy their fitness center at any time. There are plenty of nearby things to do in Niagara Falls. With large modern rooms and an on-site restaurant your trip will feel relaxing and inspiring at the same time. Especially when you enjoy either the steam shower or the 2-person spa tub in your private room. Book Here.
- Location: Niagara Falls, Ontario
- Cost: $$
- Rating: 9.2/10 (Expedia) | 8.9/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: not included
15. Strathaird Bed & Breakfast
Nestled in the historical district of Niagara Falls, Ontario this is a great stop for the avid golf enthusiast. While still within close distance to the stunning views of the American and Bridal Veil Falls, there’s also the Shaw Festival Theatre and the Botanical Gardens. Whether you’re enjoying the on-site gardens or the rainfall shower in your room this little Bed & Breakfast is happy to please. With fresh breakfast every day, there’s also a fridge of goodies for those that need to leave before breakfast service. Book Here.
- Location: Niagara Falls, Ontario
- Cost: $
- Rating: 9.0/10 (Expedia) | 9.0/10 (Booking.com)
- Breakfast: included
Canada or USA?
There’s a big debate (downright argument) over which side of the falls is a better place to visit: Canada vs the American side of Niagara Falls. When it comes down to it they’re hard to compare. Canada has obviously invested a considerable amount into making their side a great tourist attraction. The American side spent a lot of time and consideration maintaining the natural feel of the park around the natural wonder. Read up on our views on this debate here. Hint: We’re leaning towards the Canadian side if you like more hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences. And the American side may be easier if you don’t have a passport or are traveling with children.
About the Author: Heather Menz
Heather Menz has called the Buffalo area home for over 35 years. With a degree in archaeology and a keen interest in history, she has explored sites that are both easy to find and those hidden deep in Buffalo and Rochester’s history. As part of an active and outdoors-oriented family, she has traveled and hiked much and learned more about all that the Western New York area has to offer.