Rainbow International Bridge links Niagara Falls, New York, with Niagara Falls, Ontario, across the Niagara River. Walk the pedestrian route for a broad view of the American, Bridal Veil and Horseshoe Falls, with Goat Island and the Ontario skyline in the panorama. The bridge is also a practical border crossing if you want to visit both sides of the falls. Bring your passport and money for the pedestrian toll, and pause at the Canada-US boundary marker for a photo.
Views from the bridge
The bridge crosses the Niagara River slightly downriver from the falls. From the pedestrian walkway, you can see the three waterfalls, Goat Island and the Niagara Falls, Ontario, skyline in a single wide view. The falls and river also look different from this elevated angle than they do from the overlooks beside the water.
At night, the falls are illuminated, and the bridge gives you a vantage point over the river and the changing colors. The bridge itself can also enter your photographs as a foreground. For a broad view of the entire falls, angle your camera to include the Ontario skyline.
A border crossing with a longer history
The present bridge connects Niagara Falls, New York, and Niagara Falls, Ontario. Its location is close to the falls and makes it possible to visit both sides on foot. You need a passport and money for the crossing toll; check the entry requirements that apply to your nationality before setting out.
The crossing has an earlier history. In 1846, the governments of Upper Canada and New York State permitted the formation of companies to build and own the first bridge between the two shores. The International Suspension Bridge later carried trains over the Niagara River. From 1855, that rail link allowed people escaping slavery to travel north from cities including Baltimore, Philadelphia, Rochester and New York City toward Niagara Falls.
FAQ
Can you walk across Rainbow International Bridge?
Yes. Pedestrians can cross between Niagara Falls, New York, and Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Do you need a passport to cross Rainbow Bridge?
Bring a passport and check the entry requirements for both countries before crossing.
Is there a toll to walk across Rainbow Bridge?
A pedestrian toll applies. Bring quarters for the turnstiles.
What can you see from Rainbow Bridge?
The view includes the three waterfalls, Goat Island, the Niagara River and the Ontario skyline.
