Goat island is a beautiful park and must do while in Niagara. We stayed on the US side so it's basically the only thing to do as all the good food and hotels and fun stuff is in Canada. But, this park is beautiful and well-maintained with lovely walking bridges, well-kept roads, plenty of parking, and miles of walking trails. This is where you'll visit the lookouts for Bridal Veil Falls, Cave of the Winds and the Terrapin Point lookout for the Horseshoe falls in the US. The visitor center and complex for the ticket purchase and gift shop for the Cave of the Winds is nice and there is a statue of Nikola Tesla as well as an original historic preserved gate to the original hydroelectric plant here. There is plenty to see and do here in an afternoon and it is time well spent. read more

See all

Goat Island and Luna Island connect to each other. Named after a lone goat surviving a winter or all the animals left behind this is where the Maid of Mist, the premier boat tour at or near the Falls is accessed. Another area that is very peaceful, even with the crowds and hustle. read more

Niagara Falls State Park is New York's oldest state park, opened in 1885, and home to a trio of impressive waterfalls and five islands on the Niagara River, Goat Island is one of them. The area is large, with much to explore and plenty of walking as you make your way to all three sets of falls, which are connected by a paved path. There are also places to eat within the park if you work up an appetite. Cave of the Winds is on Goat Island. You'll need to walk out onto Goat Island and buy your tickets at the Cave of the Winds Plaza The key highlights to see as you walk through the park are the view of Horseshoe Falls from Terrapin Point on Goat Island read more

See all

I had no idea why this island was called Goat Island. During my visit I did not come along any information plaques that would clue me in. So, of course, after my visit and all my picture taking, I did a little research. A pioneer by the name of John Stedman had kept a herd of goats on the island. He left them there over the winter and when he returned after the winter all but one was dead. This is how the island got its name. Little morbid, but I guess a good way to get the name. Stedman was supposedly ahead of his time and knew that keeping the island preserved would be a good thing when development came knocking. He allowed a group of the Tuscarora tribe take up residence on the island and when tourist came knocking, they sold their goods to the tourists. Fast forward to present day and you see what has come of the island overall. Eventually this island, along with other land around here, will erode as the falls continue upstream. The island sits between the Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls. It houses Terrapin Point and the Cave of the Winds. However, if you are not here for the viewpoints, there is ample area to walk about to take in the nature. Lots of walking trails, this island is connected to the city by a pedestrian bridge and vehicle bridge. You can still spend a day here and not have to go anywhere. No matter where you walk, you will get some of the mist from the falls fall over you. read more

Goat Island - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

Amazing island to tour around Niagara Falls State Park on the American Side. You can see Cave of the Winds, Three Sisters Island, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls and much more. We look forward to returning. read more

See all

In the Middle of the Falls [Niagara Falls NY] The land on the U.S. side, in between the American Falls (actually, the Bridal Veil Falls) and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, is called Goat Island. This was pointed to us by our tour guide while we were in Canada. He said a long time ago someone brought and kept his goats here so that they can be protected from the wolves. I don't know if our tour guide was being funny but supposedly that's how this piece of land got its name... Goat Island. Goat Island and the Niagara Falls State Park is connected by a bridge and is essentially part of the park. It's a nice place to relax. We had a few hours to spare before heading to the airport and we took advantage of the beautiful weather getting our steps in from the leveled hiking trails while viewing the scenery of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls from the U.S. side. If you're unable to cross the border to Canada this is your next best option to view the Niagara Falls. Review #3020 read more

See all

Amazing park. Free. Very walkable even with a stroller. Parking lots are available for about $15 but if you find cheaper/street parking on the mainland (hotel/casino) area, it is an easy walk back and forth. We ended up walking from the Sheraton parking lot (since we had laready paid for daily parking there during our hotel stay) with our 11 year old and 3 year old in a stroller and the trip back and forth was easy. Lots of scenic walking paths in the park. I would imagine it is especially lovely in the fall. Offers some amazing views of the American Falls. Very neat and well maintained. read more

Goat Island - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

This really is a wonderful spot you should go. To get the full Niagara Falls experience, you should visit Niagara State Park/Goat island as well as the Canadian side that really shows you Horseshoe Falls. But I have to give it four stars because I have to compare it to Table Rock and seeing Horseshoe falls from the best side (Ontario). But this place is worthwhile. Once you get over the 10 bucks for parking, there are nice walking paths, bridges, nice restrooms. Lots of benches and rest areas. And you can get right up next to the falls. You don't get the gorgeous vistas, but you get to be right next to the rush of water. Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds attractions are also here. Again, the Ontario side is superior, but this is wonderful too, and a great option for those who don't want to pull out the passport and (as of March 2022) show a negative COVID test and a quarantine plan. read more

See all

Goat Island is my absolute favorite spot at Niagara Falls. The Niagara River actually splits around the Island and each side then ends at the American and the Horseshoe Falls. From the Island you can actually walk up to the sides of both of these falls along with Bridal Falls. The views are spectacular. The Falls themselves are almost hypnotizing. The Island also includes beautiful walking paths, a nice restaurant overlooking the Horseshoe Falls, concession stands, gift shops, and the entrance to the Cave of the Winds which brings you down behind the Falls. The walking trail is less than 2 miles total and a fairly easy walk with several places to sit and admire the views along the way. It's sometimes easy to forget that I live so close to such a special and magical place. All I need is a quick visit to remind me of how lucky I am. 2021- 178 read more

See all

Goat Island on the American side of Niagara Falls is the best place in the USA to witness the sheer majestic power and beauty of the Falls. It is in Niagara Falls State Park and is approachable by car and pedestrian trails. The highlight is the observation point between Bridal Veil and Horseshoe Falls, which are only a few feet apart at this location. You can stand right next to the capstone and watch/feel the water rush over the edge and plunge down to the talus 190 feet below. It is simply magnificent. If you can't cross Rainbow Bridge to visit the Canadian side, Goat Island is the place to be. While the other side offers better views of the aquamarine flow, they both provide the strong emotional response to standing next to the water as it cascades past you and sprays cold mist in your face. We did both, and although Ontario is superior, Goat Island comes close to the same level of satisfaction and overwhelming natural force. Some days when thousands of observers crowd the walkway and railing on the Canadian side, the American side has far fewer people along the edge and grant the opportunity to stand for a while without feeling the need to move along so others can be where you are standing. read more

Friendly and responsive staff. The view or course is spectacular. Make sure to bring rain gear your first time the perma mist lingers even a mile or two away. read more

The Niagara Falls are amazing! The falls are on the US Canada border, between Ontario and New York. There are actually three waterfalls. The largest waterfall is the Horseshoe Falls, which are the Canadian falls. The American side has two small falls, the Bridal Veil Falls and the American Falls. Between the Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls is Goat Island. Between the two American Falls is Luna Island. Remember it's always free to visit the Niagara Falls! Read about the geography and the last Ice Age before you go. There's the Niagara River. The falls look green because of the salts and pieces of rock from erosion by the Niagara River. Don't miss the night show with the colored lights. read more

See all

Best island in Niagara Falls State Park. Generally has vehicular or pedestrian access on different bridges from the southern states, none from the north. The facilities have been largely re-done since my last visit; love the access and the views and the railings... was totally socked in in fog today which made for an other worldly experience in the wee hours of the morning. absolutely fabulous. So they've moved Nick again, he has a better view of the falls but way too much exposure (still a fan after he sold out and started the band, and then the car thing... not too shabby for a dead guy) Seriously, this is a special place for me, and one of the few that hasn't changed even though literally nothing is the same as before. yea Niagara River!! BTW: parking fees are steep but it's good to be 100' from the rest rooms after driving all night to get here, really. Cleanest public facilities ever! read more

See all

Yyyyaaasssss!!!! So beautiful and amazing views from here. We came on the trolley (that runs inside Niagara State park) and I couldn't wait to get off. There is an area where you walk down to get close to the falls and you will get drenched....but it's worth it!!! You can get very close to the falls and to me it was worth every second. So happy we could experience this. If you are worried about going down the stairs or unable to you can stay up on ground level and get good pictures still since it is high up. Definitely a must see. We didn't go on any attractions here. We were here to get close to the falls and of course snap photos. The stores and bathrooms were very clean for a tourist spot. Loved it. read more

See all

Great place to talk a walk and see the falls. This was my first time here and I was pleasantly surprised. It was the best place, in my opinion, to see the falls on the American side. Since it is literally an island you can walk all the way around and see the main falls and additional, smaller falls which lead to the main from many angles. Trails were paved and easy to walk. It was about 3 miles around the loop. I believe there are some additional hiking trails as well which we did not use this time. The park was well kept and cared for, very clean park and restrooms. There is a lot of space and amenities here. A restaurant, ice cream places, restrooms throughout the island, plenty of parking (there is a $10 fee) and picnic tables scattered throughout. There is also the entrance for Cave of the Winds attraction, which was closed the day we came. Independent Heath bike share program was set up here so you could ride bikes on areas where it was allowed. We will definitely come back another day for a picnic. The day we visited there weren't many other guests. Some people were wearing masks and others weren't. Since it wasn't crowded and it was outside it was ok either way. I didn't feel unsafe. read more

As far as photography goes, Goat Island kind of sucks. None of the viewpoints does justice to any of the falls, particularly Horseshoe Falls. Unless you are interested in getting some exercise, skip Goat Island and go to Canada. Listed in Drive Across America: https://www.yelp.com/collection/4_4-FCUBHEQBq43u7DXRig read more

Goat Island - American Falls from Goat Island - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

This is a spotless park with amazing paths so close to the top of both the Horseshoe and the Bridal Veil falls that you can get misted. You can park for free in certain places and times, although paying to park so you can view this majestic sight is worth it, if that's your only shot at seeing/hearing/feeling Niagara Falls. When we went, the park was open 24 hours, so we saw the sunrise color the clouds of mist. Just note that the bathrooms, which were relatively clean flush toliets, do not open until the concessions and pay-experiences open. The only thing is that you have to be careful when driving to stay out of the route to cross the border (unless you're trying to cross the border). Don't forget to admire the raging up-stream river, the serene down-stream river, the old stonework, and the black squirrels. read more

G.O.A.T. Island is where LeBron James, Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant will duke it out (get it, I said duke, and MJ was a tarheel), until kingdom come. With Tim Duncan, Magic Johnson, Larry Byrd and Larry Flynt, no less. Oh wait, no Larry Flynt. Wrong reference. Oops. Crap. That magazine isn't mine. Every time I come to the Falls, I come to Goat Island. I make sure that all my guests visit it, too. I've spent a lot more time at Goat Island lately because it's one of the places in WNY I come to relax, breathe the fresh misty Falls air, and feel like I'm away from it all. My cell rarely gets service on this Island so that adds to the sense of peace and quiet. It's actually the most underrated spot, like, ever. GOAT island is where sheep and cows never venture. Tourists do, but not nearly as many as you would think. Because we're talking about an Island atop Niagara Falls, right between the American and Canadian side. And the whole thing is on US Soil. It may be the best thing about the Falls, along with the Maid Of The Mist. And yet a lot of people skip it completely. Don't skip Goat Island. Walking between the Falls at the top, from the left side of the American to the right side of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, is a sensational experience. Watching the water rush and fall... it's breathtaking. Goat Island, to me, is as quintessential a Niagara Falls experience as the Maid boat and as seeing the Falls from across the way on the Canadian side. But don't expect to see T-Pain, Hilary Clinton, the Burlington Factory, an English Castle protector, a pair of balls, or Linda Lovelace on this Island. Because it's not Boat Island, Vote Island, Coat Island, Moat Island, Scrote Island, or Deep Throat Island. read more

Goat Island - Bill S Preston, esquirrel - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

See all

Went for a walk on goat island park on Saturday. First I have to say I was surprised that they charge $10 to park. Then I could not believe the number of people who walked around with no masks on. There were signs all over asking people to wear masks when social distancing is not possible. The views were wonderful but I Don't think we will return as we can find other places to walk. read more

See all

Loads of history and beautiful views! This attraction is educational and shouldn't be missed. read more

See all

Goat Island is my favorite place to check out Niagara Falls. The first time I went there was many, many, many years ago and it was much less developed and much less traveled. I admit I liked it better back then because it felt more natural, they've made some nice changes, but it's a lot more commercial than it once was. It's still a great place to check out the Falls. A little less foot traffic than others areas of the Falls and really great views of the rapids right as they go over the brink. You basically look at them right from the edge. You can also see folks that are down below doing the cave of the winds and great views of the maid of the mist as well and a beautiful view across the water to Niagara Falls, Canada. It's nice to park for free across the bridge instead of paying $10 and then walk over one of the two bridges to goat island. read more

See all

You can see the edge of Horseshoe Falls from Goat Island and also the Canadian side of the falls. The roar of the water as it rushes over Horseshoe Falls is awesome and you can feel the power of the water. You can continue walking to 3 sisters Island and see that part of the river before the Falls. read more

Goat Island - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

See all

This is a great park. I've been here many times. And it's such a great view. You can get very close to the horseshoe and American falls. You can do the cave of the Winds and maid of the mist when you are there. The views are amazing. And it never gets old. I recently went to the first ever cascade of fire international firework show at the falls. And it was amazing! The fireworks were great, and we had the best view from goat island. read more

See all

One of my favorite places in the Niagara area. Anytime of the year is a good time to cross into this small island. If driving, you can park your car (although the parking rates in the lots are a bit pricey) and walk around all the beautiful paths and see sone amazing views of the river, and the Falls. You can even have a picnic at one of the many picnic tables; it's fun for all ages and a must-do! read more

While Niagara Falls is of course an amazing site to be seen, the parking lot on Goat Island is a beast of its own with snow and rain and the wind off the lake. I understand it would be a tedious task, but I watched so many people slip, slide and fall today in just the parking lot. This definitely needs to be tended to appropriately as there were many visitors still wanting to marvel at the great American Falls. read more

While the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is where it's at when it comes to places to stay and things to do, Goat Island (on the American side) was hands down my single favorite part of our visit to this amazing waterfall. Why you ask? Well, for one it's free. The Island has a gorgeous park setting that invites you to find a spot and take it all in. The sound and thunder of the rolling water rushing over the falls @ approximately 25 miles per hour is soothing and awe inspiring. I felt entranced watching the power of water at work. It without a doubt is a happy & even spiritual place where the cares of life seem to melt off of you for a brief time, as though you were standing in the presence of God. While the view of the falls is not as straightforward as the Canadian side, I actually liked the view better from Goat Island. Seemed more interesting with all the large Canadian Hotels in the background. I also noticed the waves of mist overspray from the falls were not nearly as bad (even standing directly next to the falls) as it is when standing on the Canadian side. HERE'S A HELPFUL TIP: You can actually drive over to Goat Island, a fact we didn't learn until after we'd completed the 1 mile hike over the bridge from the Observation Tower on the American side. However, I really enjoyed the walk. Along the way you will also discover Luna Island, which is the tiny land mass between the American Falls and goat Island that creates the third and smallest of the falls, Bridal Veil. FACT or FICTION - Approximately 500 years ago, the river split forming Goat Island, named because a herd of goats froze to death in the winter of 1780. Prior to this event it was called Iris Island. FINAL THOUGHTS Did you know that Niagara Falls is a retreating waterfall? It is estimated that 12,000 years ago Niagara Falls location was seven miles further downstream (closer to the whirlpool). It is also a fact that Goat Island will cease to exist in the coming centuries as the power of the Niagara River continues to erode the crest further and further back. There is no chance of that happening in our lifetime, but someday a dozen centuries from now, where we can now stand @ Terrapin Point to enjoy the falls will be just a memory in ancient history books. read more

See all

This was my favorite location at Niagara Falls State Park. It's a powerful place where, because of Goat island, the raging Niagara River splits into two creating the Horseshoe and Bridal Veil Falls. We hiked the entire perimeter (not taxing in the least but there's a trolley if you prefer) and then walked over 3 stone bridges (are the Billy Goats Gruff under any of them?) to Three Sister Islands where you're truly up close and personal with nature. That song by Jimmy Preston kept popping in my head ... As their hands touched and their lips meet, the raging river tore them down... Anyway, I'm not sure why it's called Goat Island. I know, I know, I should google it. read more

Goat Island - One of the stone bridges - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

See all

"The Island in the Middle of the Falls" When I was a child we spent many a weekend day at Niagara Falls, both sides. Those days it was easier to cross the border, and it was all cheaper too. Parking was free, at least much of it was. Neither side was the fast food/chain heaven it seems to be now. Of the many things we did often, the Greenhouse, the Butterfly's, Dufferin Islands, and of course Goat Island. I was recently reminded that's its often called "The Island in the Middle of the Falls". However, you can only access it from the American side. Named after goats, as they were once kept there by a local, although most did not survive one harsh winter. It is part of the Niagara Reservation State Park, which is the oldest state park in the US. Its a terrific place for a walk on a nice day. It does get windy there, and even the hottest days it will have a breeze and the water rushing by will offer some relief from the heat. But in the dead of winter its just cold. And if its a bad winter it may be closed altogether. Recently its been renovated and made much "safer", all sorts of new fences, to keep people from falling in, which has happened in the past. You can park nearby and walk around the area. Its a very nice walk and park to enjoy. I rarely go over the Rainbow Bridge without stopping here to see the views and the water. The birds are amazing, no matter the weather they are al over in the water. If you have never been, come visit this park on the US side of the Falls. (875) read more

My wife and I got married on Goat Island and it was an incredible place to tie the knot right next to one of the most beautiful and gorgeous sights on the east coast. We were on the lawn right across from the Top of the Falls Restaurant near the Horseshoe Falls. The process for getting married here is a bit confusing, given the plethora of weddings that must have taken place at the Falls. To do this, you must contact a mystery woman by the name of Debra (http://www.niagarafallsstatepark.com/Wedding-Ceremonies.aspx). Well, my wife and I tried. And we never really got ahold of her. So we just invited our friends and family to show up outside on the lawn, along with our videographer and Minister of Peace and voila. A free outdoor wedding. As far as I remember, there are regulations in regards to how many chairs you can have and you can't have flower decorations without prior approval, but luckily...we didn't need anything. We thought the views provided all the decorations we needed and hey -- people could stand for the ceremony before our reception. It was glorious, especially because I didn't have to deal with any real bureaucracy for our outdoor wedding last year. There are helicopters often flying by given tours of the Falls and a trolley so there are some noise considerations if you're going to get married here. As an Island itself, it's wonderful to walk around on, hike and provides a very decent view of the Falls. read more

While planning our most recent trip to the Falls, I made sure that Goat Island and Cave of the Winds (located on Goat Island) was on the top of our list. As expected, it didn't disappoint. I'll write about Cave of the Winds later. Goat Island Park itself is gorgeous. You drive or walk on (from the American side, by the Maid of the Mist). Parking is under $10. The island itself is the largest of a chain of islands that split the Falls into three: the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls (both to the north), and the Horseshoe Falls (on the south) and it offers you a gorgeous view of all three from a number of vantage points. There are also some other amazing views of the pre-falls water. When we went, there was construction on the north side that made you detour a bit to get to Luna Island (the island the splits the American and Bridal Veil). Overall, still not bad. read more

See all

Goat Island is pretty much a must-visit when you are on the US side of Niagara Falls. The island is what splits Horseshoe falls from American Falls, and there are great views of each. You mostly are getting a side view as opposed to the full-on view that you get from the Canadian side, but you are also closer. I'd try to advise visiting on a holiday weekend like Lee and I did, though. We had planned on going for a bike ride the last weekend of June, but weather washed us out, so we went on the 4th of July. Evidently, so did a lot of other people. To their credit, the park had traffic pretty well organized and directed to the parking lots, so that wasn't too much of a hassle. It was somewhat sketchy for cycling, we mostly were having to walk our bikes, and there was one point where a little girl decided to dart out in front of me, causing me to have to suddenly brake and a minor disabling of Lee's bike. Keep an eye on your kids and don't let them run out into traffic, people! From what we observed, lines for the Cave of the Winds was pretty insane, we weren't planning on going there though. I think that for a stroll and a picnic on a sunny day, it is an excellent place, and despite the crowds, it makes for a great starting point for exploring Niagara Falls NY by bicycle. read more

Goat Island - Bridal Veil Falls - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niagara Falls, New York

I enjoyed Goat Island. First the parking is free and there was plenty of spaces. Second you can see the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls up close and personal, along with a super vantage point over to the Canadian Side. As you may know, Goat Island anchors one side of the Great Niagara Falls and there is no better place to see it on the U.S. of the border. Great walks and trails around and through the island. A restaurant and concessions are available. read more

See all

I think it goes without writing that the Goat Island has the biggest attractions, namely the American and Horseshoe Falls that make up Niagra; however, there are some suggestions I want to get through. The trolley was great; however, too many potholes on transit. You would think that with ticket price paid to go, they would cover the cost to maintain the roads as well! The sights on the falls was spectacular! read more

Telsa monument is really nice its located behind the gift shop. Pretty good view the falls. Parking is $5 read more

See all

I wish we had even more time to explore this park. It's large, but not too large. I think we could have walked around it in a few hours. There's a variety of trails, and the viewing area for the falls is fantastic. It's amazing that something so powerful and majestic is just a few feet away. I did find myself wishing the refreshment stands were open a little later. We visited during the summer, and they were all closed down about two hours before sunset. For us, walking was the best way to access the island. There's a short bridge from the US side, and then a little longer, but still reasonably short walk to Horseshoe Falls. We did use the parking lot once, later in the day, and there was plenty of spots available. There is also a trolley, but we didn't use it. It seemed like there were always a lot of people waiting to get on. Bicycles would have been a really fun option, but we couldn't find any to rent with a child's seat. Overall, though, there's many good things about visiting. read more

While in Niagara Falls, you should certainly take a walk around Goat Island. If only part of the island, walk around the North side with wonderful views of the Canadian and American Falls. You can access walking paths that take you directly above the Falls. It'll be a little misty above the Falls, so be ready for that. The Souther side of Goat Island is a bit more peaceful with views of the River and mainland US and Canadian shores. read more

See all

Goat Island is a great park and part of the Niagara Falls State park system. It's beautiful here with many awesome views of both the American and Horseshoe Falls. I have always really enjoyed it here and how natural it feels compared to the wild and business filled Canadian counterpart. The access point to the Cave of the Winds is here along with some other shops, ice cream, and some gift shops. Also there is the Top of the Falls restaurant a lovely place with a nice view of the gorge. Terrapin Point the best view of the Horseshoe Falls from the American side is closed seasonally due to feet of snow and ice so be aware when planning your trip that the best views of the falls may not be accessible at that time. There are buses and trolleys that run throughout the island constantly taking you to different points. There is parking available all over the place and be sure to visit the Three Sister's Islands on the open (Canadian Falls) side of the island for some spectacular views of the upper Niagara River and rapids! read more

Goat Island is where we parked to view Niagara Falls today for $10. Ouch. That said, it's well maintained with nice paths and access to the falls and related attractions. Totes no goats, though. read more

I absolutely love this park. Beautiful and accessible, one may never really explore every inch of it. I go down there often in every season just to recharge. It's wonderful. read more

This is a great place to view the American falls as well as the horseshoe falls. It gives you amazing views and is very easy to walk around here. There's some construction around here now, so the view of the horseshoe falls is slightly obstructed, but it's still worth a visit here! read more