Goat Island (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Goat Island?
What makes it 72% Baby-Friendly: Parents can push their own stroller on flat paths and find several restrooms that may have changing tables, but there is no stroller rental, no private nursing room, and wet decks are unsafe for infants.
Positives:
- Stroller Access: Most main trails and overlooks are paved and smooth for strollers.
- Baby-Friendly Facilities: Restrooms across the island include water bottle fillers and changing tables.
- Trolley Convenience: Level-entry trolley cars make moving around with a stroller easier.
Challenges:
- Crowds and Lines: Summer weekends bring large crowds that can slow strollers on narrow paths.
- Variable Weather: Mist from falls can soak gear; pack waterproof cover for stroller and baby.
- Limited Shade: Many overlooks have no shelter; sun exposure can affect babies in summer.
What is Goat Island?
- A small, uninhabited island in Niagara Falls State Park situated between Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls
- A rocky, forested outcrop that bears the name of goats historically kept there and displays exposed bedrock and riverine vegetation
- A landmass dividing the Niagara River into the American and Horseshoe Falls, directing the river’s powerful currents
What is so special about Goat Island for with baby?
- Smooth, stroller-friendly trails around the falls.
- Safe, level overlooks with railings for baby viewing.
- Free trolley rides let you hop on/off across the island.
- Restrooms feature changing tables and water fillers.
- Picnic spots by the river offer easy breaks.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for stroller-friendly trails, trolley rides, and short breaks without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Goat Island
Goat Island Scenic Trail:
Walk the paved 1.8-mile loop for river and falls views.
Tip: Use a stroller on this flat path and pause at benches for baby breaks.
Terrapin Point Overlook:
Enjoy a close-up view of Horseshoe Falls from a level platform.
Tip: Arrive early to secure space for your stroller near the railing.
Niagara Scenic Trolley:
Hop on the trolley to reach key spots without extra walking.
Tip: Buy a day pass so you can board and exit at no extra cost; baby rides free.
Three Sisters Islands Picnic:
Cross short bridges to peaceful picnic tables by the river.
Tip: Bring a blanket and snacks; restrooms and bottle fillers are nearby.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Goat Island
- Go Early: Start your visit by 9 AM to find quieter paths and easier stroller parking.
- Plan Rest Stops: Use benches and picnic areas near restrooms for baby feeding and changing breaks.
- Check Trail Updates: Review park website for any icy path closures, especially in spring and winter.
Reviews of Goat Island
L Wells
Nice place, great walking with the beautiful Niagara Falls all around you.
Starlight Lifter
Perfect for parking to visit Niagara falls. Not busy when we visited so easy to get around and park. Spaces were wide and long. Very close to park entrance so easy walk.
Sanjay Gupta
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 app...
David Chambers
Really enjoyed this as my first view of Niagara Falls. Highly recommend doing this side first. It's still very impressive, but the Canadian side has an even better view.
Shen Jasmine
Nice place to view falls from The US side. 6pm is good timing for taking pictures.
When is the best time to visit Goat Island (Niagara Falls, United States)?
From late spring to early fall, all trails and overlooks are open and stroller-ready. Summer weekends get busy—visit on weekdays or morning. In winter, some paths close due to ice and snow; check park alerts.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking (Lot 2) | USD 10 |
| Niagara Scenic Trolley (2 adults) | USD 10 |
| Snacks and drinks | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 40 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Goat Island
Address: Goat Island, Niagara Falls, NY 14303, USA
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