Want a peaceful retreat near Niagara Falls and Buffalo? Head to Grand Island! Nestled in the middle of the Niagara River, Grand Island blends natural beauty with easy access to iconic attractions. Explore state parks, scenic trails, and small-town hospitality just minutes from major destinations.
🌤 When I like to visit
The best time to visit Grand Island is from late spring through early fall (May to October). Warm weather is ideal for hiking, boating, and exploring Niagara Falls. Fall brings beautiful foliage and crisp air, while winter is quieter with nearby snow sports available.
🗺 My tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Grand Island is accessible via I-190, located between Buffalo and Niagara Falls, about 20 minutes from either city.
- By Air: Fly into Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), approximately 25 minutes away by car.
- By Train: Amtrak stations are available in nearby Niagara Falls and Buffalo.
🏬 Where I like to stay
- Holiday Inn Express Grand Island – Modern hotel with river views, pool, and quick access to area attractions.
- Radisson Hotel Niagara Falls – Grand Island – Waterfront property with an indoor pool, restaurant, and scenic setting.
- Bed & Breakfasts nearby – Quaint accommodations in surrounding areas like Lewiston or Youngstown.
Top Attractions
1. Swim, Golf, or Picnic at Beaver Island State Park
Situated at Grand Island’s south end along the upper Niagara River, Beaver Island State Park encompasses approximately 950 acres and includes nature trails, bike trails, fishing access, both transient and seasonal boat slips at the 80-slip marina, and a sandy swimming beach around a half of a mile long. The state park also features a 18-hole golf course, a 18-hole disc golf course, horseshoe pits, athletic fields, picnic areas, and playgrounds. During the winter season, outdoor recreation activities include ice fishing, sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling with a permit. Hunting is also allowed by permit, depending on season.
2136 Oakfield Rd, Grand Island, NY 14072, Phone: 716-404-4214
Driving Times:
| From This City | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 2-3 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 5-6 hours |
| Toronto, Ontario | 6-7 hours |
| Boston, MA | 7-8 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 7-8 hours |
| New York, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Albany, NY | 4-5 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 7-8 hours |
| Portland, ME | 8-9 hours |
Map:
2. Hike or Paddle Through Nature at Buckhorn Island State Park
Buckhorn Island State Park is nearly nine hundred acres of woods, meadows, and marsh and the last piece of the once vast meadows and marshlands bordering the Niagara River. Visitors are welcome to explore the protected park preserve and explore nature trails, bike, cross-country ski, fish, and hike throughout Buckhorn Island State Park. Open throughout the entire year, including holidays, the state park features parking facilities, a bike path, scenic overlooks, and non-intrusive trails. Part of Buckhorn Island has been designated as a conservation area for birds, protecting nesting habitat for a number of different threatened bird species.
136 West Oakfield Rd, Grand Island, NY 14072, Phone: 716-773-3271
Driving Times:
| From This City | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 2-3 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 5-6 hours |
| Toronto, Ontario | 6-7 hours |
| Boston, MA | 7-8 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 7-8 hours |
| New York, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Albany, NY | 4-5 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 7-8 hours |
| Portland, ME | 8-9 hours |
Map:
3. Cast a Line with the Pros at Brookdog Fishing Co.
Brookdog Fishing Company, based in the town of Grand Island, offers fishing charters in the Buffalo Niagara area. A good experience for both locals and travelers alike, the goal of the fishing charter company is to provide the “best fishing experience possible” for guests, while also “developing lasting friendships,” trading stories, exchanging ideas, and maybe even making plans for the next trip or fishing charter. Fishing in the Buffalo area is possible throughout the whole year, with every season offering its own guided trips, techniques, and species of fish for people of all experience levels to try their luck catching.
353 Lang Blvd, Grand Island, NY 14072, Phone: 716-704-5144
Driving Times:
| From This City | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 2-3 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 5-6 hours |
| Toronto, Ontario | 6-7 hours |
| Boston, MA | 7-8 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 7-8 hours |
| New York, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Albany, NY | 4-5 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 7-8 hours |
| Portland, ME | 8-9 hours |
Map:
Where to Eat
4. Dine on Seasonal Fare at Dick and Jenny’s
Dick and Jenny's is a locally owned and operated eatery in Grand Island that serves high quality American fare all day within a casual environment. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant also offers catering services, as well as a takeout. Every dish is made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients available, from the corned beef hash to the braised pork belly tacos and Creole deviled eggs. Dick and Jenny's is open for breakfast and lunch Tuesday to Friday from 10:30am until 2:00pm and on Saturdays starting at 8:00am, and dinner from 5:00pm until 9:00pm.
1270 Baseline Rd, Grand Island, NY 14072, Phone: 716-775-5048
Driving Times:
| From This City | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 2-3 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 5-6 hours |
| Toronto, Ontario | 6-7 hours |
| Boston, MA | 7-8 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 7-8 hours |
| New York, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Albany, NY | 4-5 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 7-8 hours |
| Portland, ME | 8-9 hours |
Map:
5. Enjoy a Cozy Meal at The Village Inn
Situated within the historic Ferry Village area of Grand Island, The Village Inn is a popular place among locals and visitors alike thanks to its close proximity to the scenic Niagara River and its homelike, quaint atmosphere. The restaurant believes in only using the freshest ingredients available and strives to support the local farms in the area whenever possible. Along with using local ingredients as much as possible, The Village Inn also offers local beer on tap. The restaurant is open from 11:00am until 10:00pm, Monday to Thursday, and from 11:00am until 11:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
1488 Ferry Rd, Grand Island, NY 14072, Phone: 716-773-5030
Driving Times:
| From This City | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 2-3 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 5-6 hours |
| Toronto, Ontario | 6-7 hours |
| Boston, MA | 7-8 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 7-8 hours |
| New York, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Albany, NY | 4-5 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 7-8 hours |
| Portland, ME | 8-9 hours |
Map:
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Niagara Amusement Park & Splash World – Family fun with classic rides and water slides, formerly Fantasy Island.
- River Lea House Museum – Historic home located in Beaver Island State Park, connected to Grover Cleveland's family.
- Grand Island Fun Center – Mini-golf, go-karts, batting cages, and arcade games for all ages.
- West River Shoreline Trail – 8-mile scenic multi-use path great for walking, biking, and river views.
🎟 My favorite local events:
- Grand Island Fall Festival (October) – Crafts, food vendors, kids’ games, and local entertainment.
- Independence Day Parade & Fireworks (July) – Community celebration with family activities and waterfront fireworks.
- Concerts at Beaver Island State Park (Summer) – Live outdoor music by the river with picnic-friendly settings.
🚙 My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Grand Island, New York:
- Niagara Falls (15–20 min) – Experience the iconic falls, Cave of the Winds, and Maid of the Mist boat tours.
- Buffalo (20 min) – Explore art museums, historic architecture, Canalside, and the Buffalo Zoo.
- Lewiston (25 min) – Enjoy riverfront dining, shops, and concerts at Artpark.
- North Tonawanda (15–20 min) – Visit the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum and quaint downtown.
- Tonawanda Rails-to-Trails (15–20 min) – Great for cycling and nature walks just across the river.
- Niagara Wine Trail (30 min) – Sip local wines at countryside vineyards near Lake Ontario.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
-
Where is Grand Island, New York located?
- Grand Island is located in Erie County, New York and is the largest island in the Niagara River.
-
Why is Grand Island named "La Grande Île"?
- The name comes from the French term “La Grande Île” because it is the largest island in the Niagara River and the third-largest island in New York State.
-
What historical significance does Grand Island have?
- The town was home to the Attawandaron Nation and played a role in both English and French colonial pursuits.
-
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy on Grand Island?
- Grand Island is a popular place for outdoor recreation and is home to both Buckhorn Island State Park and Beaver Island State Park.
-
Is fishing available on Grand Island?
- Yes, visitors can find plenty of fishing opportunities in the area.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers, great for exploring nature.
Radisson Hotel Niagara Falls-Grand Island – Scenic riverfront stay with great amenities.
Visit Beaver Island State Park – Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and waterfront views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities and water fun.
Byblos Niagara Resort and Spa – A relaxing stay with stunning river views.
Explore Fantasy Island Amusement Park – A fun-filled day for families and thrill-seekers.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful fall foliage.
Niagara Riverside Resort – A cozy stay close to top attractions.
Take a short trip to Niagara Falls – Experience one of the world’s most famous waterfalls.
Driving Times to Grand Island, New York
| From | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 2-3 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 5-6 hours |
| Toronto, Ontario | 6-7 hours |
| Boston, MA | 7-8 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 7-8 hours |
| New York, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Albany, NY | 4-5 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 7-8 hours |
| Portland, ME | 8-9 hours |
Map of Grand Island, New York Attractions:
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