Arrive on Tuesday, April 16 and enjoy a special pre-conference itinerary visiting key attractions in Niagara Falls, New York
Destination Niagara USA and NYSTIA invite you to join your tourism colleagues and explore Niagara Falls USA’s iconic attractions! Prepare for an adventure as we visit three unique destination sites that have transformed over the years, enhancing the overall experience for visitors and locals alike. Afterward, enjoy a reception at the Niagara Falls Convention Center and savor the local flavors of Western New York—from pizza to pierogies, and everything in between!
How to Register:
If you are registered for the Conference, simply add the FAM Tour to your registration
If you are not registered for the Conference, the option to add on the Niagara Falls FAM Tour will automatically be listed as an 'Additional Item' in the registration portal. Register for the 2024 NYS Tourism Conference.
Cost for the Whole FAM Tour: $65.00 (includes round-trip bus transportation, guided tours, admission to all venues, light fare, and two (2) drink tickets!)
Cost for the Reception Only: $45.00 (includes light fare, and two (2) drink tickets)
2:00 PM - Cave of the Winds
Before descending into the Niagara Gorge for your breathtaking one-of-a-kind adventure, learn how Nikola Tesla harnessed the power of the Falls to create alternating current, experience what Niagara Falls looked like before it was a park and witness why people from around the globe have been drawn to the edge of the Falls for hundreds of years as you travel through The World Changed Here Pavilion. Then it is time to prepare for the power of the Falls at the Cave of the Winds! You will be outfitted in a poncho before descending 175 feet into the awe-inspiring Niagara Gorge. Exit the elevator cave and find yourself on a series of wooden walkways that will bring you to the unbelievable “Hurricane Deck” where you are within feet of the crashing Bridal Veil Falls and surrounded by tropical storm-like conditions—even on the calmest of days. Be sure to wear waterproof shoes & clothing: you will get wet!
Aquarium of Niagara
Discover wonder in the water at the Aquarium of Niagara. Build connections to the aquatic world through immersive exhibits and engaging presentations. Explore a wide range of animals and habitats featuring more than 120 species. Make new friends among our rescued seals and sea lions, play with a penguin through the glass, and touch sharks and stingrays. Make your visit even more memorable through up-close animal encounters, special tours, behind-the-scenes access, and more. The Aquarium is a non-profit organization, and proceeds from your visit support the animals under our care and drive our ongoing conservation efforts.
Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is an experiential museum that reveals authentic stories of Underground Railroad freedom seekers and abolitionists in Niagara Falls. Located inside the former 1863 U.S. Customs House attached to the Niagara Falls Amtrak Station, the 'One More River to Cross' permanent exhibition features the rich stories of the Underground Railroad in Niagara Falls, the crucial role played by its location and geography, and the actions of its residents – particularly its African American residents. The exhibition presents engaging digital media, graphics, scenic built environments and facilitated dialogic programming as part of the visitor experience. Visitors are able to experience stories and hear from individuals, such as Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, and John Morrison, who connect the historic Underground Railroad past to present day around the world.
Reception: Drinks and Light Fare at the Niagara Falls Convention Center - Hosted by Niagara Falls USA
The Niagara Falls Convention Center (NFCC) is ideally located in the heart of downtown Niagara Falls, New York. For the reception, enjoy "A Taste of Western New York" with a variety of delicious stations including:
- A Pizza Station (featuring Niagara Falls USA pizzerias)
- Beef on Weck station
- Fresh Pierogi Station
- Chicken Wing Station