Experiencing the power and beauty of Niagara Falls is on everyone’s bucket list. That’s why millions of visitors flock to see them each year. There are so many ways to experience the falls: let the Maid of the Mist ferry bring you right up to its base, or view them from behind by doing the Journey Behind the Falls or visiting the Cave of the Winds. If you want to get the aerial view, hop on a helicopter ride to get the full picture.
Beyond the falls, Niagara offers so many other things to do. Tour the local wineries and breweries, return to nature in Niagara State Park, even try your luck at one of the casinos. Wherever your adventure takes you, it’s easy to get around Niagara on foot, by bike, car or even reliable public transportation. Just remember to bring your passport so you can easily pass between the US/Canadian border.
Although, historically the falls have attracted honeymooners and families, the area has developed into a tourist destination for all ages. With so many people coming each year, there are a variety of places to spend the night. Options range from high-end four-star hotels to roadside motels. Even the locals have joined in by listing spare rooms for short-term rental. Hostels provide a unique experience at affordable rates for the traveler on a budget. Our best hostels in Niagara Falls gives insight into the best the area has to offer.
Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Niagara Falls
- Most Affordable Hostel in Niagara Falls – Gorge View
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What to Expect from Hostels in Niagara Falls
As a historic tourist destination, the Niagara area has plenty of places to stay. However, don’t worry, you won’t have to pay premium rates to have a fabulous time. Hostels in the area are a great alternative to paying high prices at chain hotels. Instead, a hostel has a younger, more unique vibe at much lower rates. Our best hostels in Niagara Falls list is designed so you can spend your hard-earned cash on the incredible experiences Niagara has to offer rather than where you lay your head.
There are a few hostels on both the Canadian and US sides of the falls. We’ve checked out all the hostels in the area and even considered other budget accommodations (that rival hostel prices) to make sure our list is complete with multiple options.
These famous falls have been attracting visitors since the early 1800s. Since then, Niagara has steadily grown on both sides of the river, with many of the hotels, restaurants, and attractions concentrated in the immediate area. Most hostels are located within walking distance to the falls as well as many of the other things. If you’re not keen on walking everywhere or if you want to explore fun things a bit further out, a lot of places have free onsite parking for your car. Others have bike rentals, and all can help you navigate the bus system so you can get around town for only a few bucks.
The cost of staying in Niagara varies with the season and the type of accommodation. The hostels are all friendly to the traveler on a budget, with dorm rooms at super low rates. Some have private rooms available for added privacy – these do cost a bit more, but they are significantly lower than getting a room at a high-end hotel in town. With these private rooms, you can use the communal facilities like kitchens, lounges, and even yards with barbecues – you’re not gonna be able to do that at the local hotel!
Niagara hostels are true to the backpacking vibe. They are young at heart with a friendly atmosphere. Local staff will help you get settled and give you all the details of the best places to eat and visit. Some can even provide you with tickets to local attractions. Laundry facilities on site are super convenient for travelers on the go, but make sure to note which places provide towels, lockers, and breakfast free of cost.
Best Hostels in Niagara Falls
A visit to Niagara Falls guarantees a majestic, sightseeing experience. Where you choose to stay could enhance your experience even more. Check out our favorite hostels in Niagara Falls (both American and Canadian alike) to help you choose the one that’s right for you.
Gorge View – Most Affordable Hostel in Niagara Falls
Gorge View is a great hostel for an exceptional price. Designed for the traveler on the go, the dorm rooms are perfect to bunk up for a night or two after a day of sightseeing. Located just a block from restaurants, bars, and clubs, you’ll never be at a loss of places to eat, drink, and be merry. There is so much within walking distance (including the falls and the Rainbow Bridge to Canada) so you can park your car on site for free and explore Niagara on foot. Luggage storage and lockers make it super easy for a traveler to secure their stuff while out and about. To optimize your stay, be sure to bring along a towel and a lock.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Walking distance to the falls
- Close to Niagara Gorge
- Across the street from the Aquarium
The location of Gorge View is perfect. It’s only a short walk to the falls, but better yet, across the street are some of the best bike and hiking trails along the Niagara Gorge (its namesake). So instead of taking the streets to the falls, walk along the trails and experience the river from its edge as you approach the powerful falls. If the weather is a bit iffy, hop into the Aquarium of Niagara which is across the street from Gorge View. There you can see the wonders of nature without being too cold or wet outside when the weather isn’t too stellar.
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View on Osprey View on REIWanderfalls Guesthouse & Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Niagara Falls
Wanderfalls Guesthouse & Hostel has all the great features of a traditional hostel with the feeling that you’re spending the night at a friend’s house. Every option is available at Wanderfalls with both private and dorm rooms, as well as female-only spaces. No matter your choice, the price is always right! You can keep costs down, by prepare your own meals in the communal kitchen.
Like a true friend, Wanderfalls provides towels free of cost. There are also lockers and luggage storage available.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Walkable to the falls
- Library & Book Exchange
- Porch, Yard & BBQ
Location is key when you’re traveling. Wanderfalls is perfectly positioned near everything you’d want to do and see. A short walk will take you to the falls, awesome restaurants, and even over the border to Canada. If you’re looking for another mode of transportation, the bus is only three blocks away or there’s free on site parking if you have your own ride.
Wanderfalls has the true communal feel of a friendly hostel. Hang out and meet other travelers in the kitchen, lounge, or barbecue in the yard. You can stay connected with travelers who came before or will come after you through the Book Exchange. The staff helps to make your stay enjoyable with things like guided tours and bike rides around town.
HI Niagara Falls – Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Niagara Falls
HI Niagara Falls does hosteling right. The whole vibe is about making travel fun, convenient, and communal. Choose the type of setup that fits you or your group – single or mixed-gender dorm rooms let everyone choose the bunk situation that’s right for them. Group rooms are available for a bit more privacy – pick either the twin room which sleeps two in your own beds or the family room that comfortably sleeps four. Rest assured with free towels, laundry facilities, and lockers that are available at HI Niagara. Meet other travelers in the communal kitchen or barbequing.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Breakfast
- Bike Rentals
- Pool Table
HI Niagara is prepared for the solo backpacker who’s up for a great time, but can’t fit everything in their luggage. Free Towels, computer access, and bike rentals help a nomad relax and enjoy themselves. Keeping the costs down, free breakfast, and use of the communal kitchen really help. Although HI Niagara is located a bit farther from the falls to walk, their awesome bike rentals allow you to get around with ease. It’s easy to mingle with other guests in the common spaces like the courtyard or playing a game of pool. Staff also arrange excursions to local attractions and activities, so you’re likely to find a fellow traveler from the HI to join you.
Lets Bunk – Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Niagara Falls
Cool, colorful, and convenient. Lets Bunk is a modern hostel with a totally cool concept. Instead of staying in an open dorm room where you can see and hear everyone else, Lets Bunk provides a semi-private space for travelers. Traditional bunk beds are transformed into pods – a simple concept that is stellar for travelers who want the low price of sleeping in a dorm but could use more physical space between beds. Each pod is separated from others by a solid wall on all but one side. Complete your semi-private space by closing the blackout curtains and enjoy. Although each is the size of a standard twin-sized mattress, it has enough headroom to sit up comfortably. The communal spaces, like the lounge are great places to meet and mingle with other travelers.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Blackout Curtains
- Lockers
- Free Parking
Each pod is outfitted with a charging station, lamp, and locker, so you will have everything you need at your fingertips. Unlike many other dorm options in the area, blackout curtains are a blessing at Lets Bunk. This way you can feel secure in your own visual privacy. It might be a good idea to bring headphones or earplugs so you can feel like you’re truly in your own space.
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Hide Yo’ Money!Other Budget Accommodations in Niagara Falls
OYO Hotel Niagara Falls
The perk of staying at a hotel is that you get your own room with your own bathroom. You don’t have to share it with anyone. Ahhhhh, relief.
Yes, OYO is a hotel, but it has such decent rates and a location to die for, that we just needed to put it on the list of best hostels in Niagara Falls.
First the cost – the per night rate rivals the cost of getting a private room at a local hostel. But, at OYO the rooms are en suite and large enough that you can share the room with a friend or loved one. And let’s get real, splitting the bill definitely helps.
Now, consider the location – OYO is in the heart of Niagara Falls, Canada. Steps from the casinos and only a short walk from the falls, there’s no need to bother with a car. It’s true that a hotel does not have the same chill, communal feel as a hostel, but when you can keep costs down on the accommodations, it’s worth considering.
Shared Room in Niagara Falls
Instead of staying at a sterile hotel or motel, this space that feels like you’re staying with a friend. Although it is located in the Deveaux neighborhood which is a bit further out from the city center, local bus routes are conveniently located nearby. If you choose to drive, parking is easy to find on the street or park on the premises – it’s included in the cost of the stay. The host is ready with advice about the area, how to get around, and what’s not to be missed. Feel free to hang out in the living room and on the porch. However, as kitchen facilities are not available, just ask for recommendations of a place to eat before your next adventure.
What to Pack for your Niagara Falls Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Niagara Falls Hostels FAQ
How much do hostels in Niagara Falls cost?
Both sides of the Niagara Falls are equally affordable. While the price depends on the season, dorms usually start from $26 USD and private rooms from $71 USD.
What are the best hostels in Niagara Falls for couples?
Just a 10 mins drive away from the falls is my top budget accommodation, Blue Moon Motel. This motel gives a great value for your money with clean rooms and well equipped facilities.
What is the best hostel in Niagara Falls near the airport?
Niagara Falls International Airport is the closest airport in Niagara, be aware though that it is within the US boundary so you’ll need your passport to cross the Canadian border. Gorge View is my recommended hostel within the US border while Susan’s Villa is my top pick in Canada that has airport shuttle.
Travel Safety Tips for Niagara Falls
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Final Thoughts
You can’t go wrong with a trip to Niagara Falls – it’s been a tourist hotspot for over 200 years. The spots listed we’ve chosen are known for giving travelers on a budget what they need – a great stay at affordable rates. Wanderfalls Guesthouse and Hostel does even more by providing options and an experience that is exceptional, that’s why we named it best overall hostel in Niagara Falls.
There are so many places to stay in and around the falls that if you choose to stay on the US side or Canadian side, it doesn’t matter, you’ll have an awesome time.
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Canada for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the beautiful places in Canada covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Canada if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Niagara Falls before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Canada to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
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