Unforgettable Things to Do Near Niagara Falls: Hop On Board a Joy Rails Adventure!

For those planning a trip to Western New York, marveling at the rushing waters of Niagara Falls is usually at the top of every traveler’s bucket list. However, once you have experienced the mist of the Maid of the Mist, you will quickly find that the region holds even more hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. If you are looking for spectacular, family-friendly things to do near Niagara Falls, adding a rail biking adventure with Joy Rails to your itinerary is the ultimate way to complete your vacation.

Discover the Magic of Rail Biking in Arcade, NY

Located just a short drive from the thundering falls, Arcade, NY, is home to our popular Joy Rails destination. Visitors are often blown away when they realize they can pedal along the historic tracks of the Arcade & Attica Railroad line—a vintage stretch of railway that once served as a vital freight and passenger corridor. Today, those historic rails offer a peaceful gateway into Western New York’s quiet woodlands, rolling farm fields, and open meadows.

Our custom-built Rail Cruisers feature an open-air quadricycle design that comfortably seats up to four passengers. Whether you are setting out with family, embarking on a romantic getaway for two, or gathering a group of friends, gliding along the rails evokes pure nostalgia for the golden age of rail travel. As you listen to the rhythmic clickety-clack of the tracks, you will feel the stress of everyday life fade away as fresh countryside air surrounds you.

Accessible Fun for Everyone: Our ePedal Assist Feature

We believe outdoor adventure should be accessible and relaxing for all ages and physical abilities. You don’t need to be an avid cyclist to enjoy riding the rails with us! While our custom bikes are easy to pedal along the flat terrain, every Joy Rails bike comes equipped with an optional electric-assist feature.

Our team recommends using the ePedal Assist whenever you want to sit back, relax, and let the motor do the heavy lifting. You can pedal as much or as little as you like—making it a stress-free experience for young children, grandparents, and anyone seeking a leisurely scenic ride.

Unmatched Autumn Beauty: Autumn Leaf Peeping Tours

While Western New York(opens in new tab) is stunning during the summer months, autumn brings a truly magical transformation to the countryside. If you are planning a getaway in the fall, experiencing our seasonal “Ride The Colors Rail Tour” is widely considered one of the most breathtaking autumn activities near Niagara Falls.

During our Leaf Peeping Tours, you will ride directly through vibrant, canopy-covered forests glowing with brilliant shades of red, orange, and deep yellow. Unlike viewing foliage from a car window on a busy highway, rail biking allows you to glide slowly through silent corridors of trees and open farmland that are completely inaccessible by road. You will have plenty of opportunities at our midway turnaround point to stretch your legs, take stunning photos of the vibrant leaves, and soak in the crisp fall air.

A Complete Itinerary: Pair Niagara Falls with Joy Rails

To make the most of your trip to Western New York, pairing the majesty of Niagara Falls with the charm of Joy Rails creates the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. We have found that multi-day visitors love breaking up the fast-paced crowds around Niagara’s main tourist strip with an afternoon spent in the peaceful, natural surroundings of Arcade.

Here is how you can spend a perfect day in the region:

• Morning: Explore Niagara Falls State Park, take a boat tour into the mist, or walk along the gorge trails.
• Midday: Take a scenic drive through the countryside toward Arcade, stopping at local diners or antique shops along the route.
• Afternoon: Hop on board a Joy Rails tour! Glide down historic tracks, spot local wildlife, and enjoy a guided rail cruise through open meadows and forested glades.
• Evening: Unwind with dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant or join us for a dusk-to-evening Starlight Rail Cruise, where our bikes illuminate the night with colorful LED lights.

Plan Your Journey Today

If you’re looking for fun things to do near Niagara Falls, put a rail biking tour with Joy Rails on your agenda! Whether you want to pedal through lush green woodlands in the summer heat or marvel at New York’s famous fall foliage on a cool autumn morning, Joy Rails offers an unforgettable outdoor excursion. All aboard for an adventure that combines train heritage, beautiful scenery, and outdoor fun for the whole family!

Spaces for our scenic excursions—especially our popular autumn Leaf Peeping Tours—fill up quickly. Reserve your tickets to ride today and let the rails carry you to joy!(opens in new tab)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Joy Rails located in relation to Niagara Falls?

Our Western New York location is based in Arcade, NY (1097 Chaffee Rd.), approximately an hour’s drive southeast of Niagara Falls, making it an easy day trip addition to your vacation.

Do I need to be physically fit to ride a rail bike?

Not at all! Our rail bikes feature flat tracks and an optional electric pedal-assist feature that allows riders of all fitness levels to enjoy a smooth, effortless journey.

When is the best time for fall foliage rail bike tours?

Our autumn “Ride The Colors” leaf-peeping tours typically run from late September through October, which coincides with peak fall foliage in Western New York.