A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lancaster vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lancaster or Niagara Falls, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a traditional, picturesque, and scenic town. The beauty of Lancaster is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Lancaster travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a impressive, iconic, and breathtaking city. With stunning beauty, Niagara Falls attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Lancaster and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Niagara Falls than Lancaster, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Niagara Falls is more popular for its nightlife and hiking, while Lancaster is known for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for the large volume of water that flows over it. It is also home to the Journey Behind the Falls. Lancaster is popular for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Lancaster different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Niagara Falls and Lancaster. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

Lancaster is notable for its sights and museums. However, Niagara Falls is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

Lancaster offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

Is the Food Better in Lancaster or Niagara Falls? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lancaster is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lancaster. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Niagara Falls is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Lancaster or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Niagara Falls has a few options to choose from. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Lancaster or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Niagara Falls is a great city for hiking. However, Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Niagara Falls for the hiking trails. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

Lancaster is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Lancaster is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Niagara Falls has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Lancaster or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of very good scenery and beauty in both Lancaster and Niagara Falls.

With stunning beauty, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Is Lancaster or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Niagara Falls is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Niagara Falls is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

Lancaster is a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Lancaster or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Lancaster and Niagara Falls are both very good to visit as a couple.

Lancaster is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

Niagara Falls is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Is Lancaster or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Niagara Falls. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.

Is Lancaster or Niagara Falls Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lancaster is not known for its public transit.

While Niagara Falls offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system through town.

Public transit is generally limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Is Lancaster or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

Niagara Falls is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Lancaster Worth Visiting? and Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Lancaster?

How long in Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lancaster and Niagara Falls. In our opinion, Niagara Falls has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Niagara Falls than Lancaster. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Niagara Falls than Lancaster. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Niagara Falls, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Niagara Falls than Lancaster. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Niagara Falls that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Niagara Falls than Lancaster if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Niagara Falls.

One day in Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the scenic destination of Lancaster. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Niagara Falls. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lancaster. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the iconic destination of Niagara Falls. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Lancaster. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the breathtaking city of Niagara Falls. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Lancaster. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Niagara Falls is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lancaster and Niagara Falls, we can see that Lancaster is more expensive. And not only is Niagara Falls much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Niagara Falls would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Niagara Falls and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lancaster would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lancaster than you might in Niagara Falls.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lancaster Expensive? and Is Niagara Falls Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Lancaster. When comparing the sizes of Lancaster and Niagara Falls, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Lancaster or Niagara Falls?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lancaster or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

Both Niagara Falls and Lancaster during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lancaster in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lancaster is generally around the same temperature as Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Lancaster average around 77°F (25°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Niagara Falls, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lancaster. In the summer, Lancaster often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls. Lancaster gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun.

Lancaster usually gets more rain in July than Niagara Falls. Lancaster gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lancaster or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lancaster and Niagara Falls. Most visitors come to Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lancaster is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lancaster averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Lancaster usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during autumn. Lancaster gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lancaster usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Lancaster gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lancaster or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lancaster as well as Niagara Falls. The winter months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Niagara Falls this time of year.

It's quite cold in Niagara Falls in the winter. The weather in Lancaster can be very cold. In the winter, Lancaster is much warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lancaster in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about -4°C (26°F).

In the winter, Lancaster often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Lancaster gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun.

Lancaster usually gets more rain in January than Niagara Falls. Lancaster gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lancaster or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

Both Niagara Falls and Lancaster are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the natural beauty.

In April, Lancaster is generally a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Lancaster average around 53°F (12°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Niagara Falls. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lancaster. Lancaster usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during spring. Lancaster gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lancaster usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Lancaster gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Lancaster