Accommodations range from huge chains to quaint B&Bs to disgusting motels. In general, hotels are much nicer on the Canadian side. Rates from June to August are decidedly higher than the rest of the year and fluctuate wildly depending on the particular week, whether any events are in town, and, of course, availability. So if you call to book and the rates are astronomical, try the following week.
Both sides abound in chain hotels. On the American side, good choices include Comfort Inn, 1 Prospect Pointe (tel. 800/28-HOTEL or 716/284-6835), which is superclose to the water; Crowne Plaza, 300 Third St. (tel. 877/227-6963 or 716/285-3361); and the Hampton Inn, 501 Rainbow Blvd. (tel. 800/426-7866 or 716/285-6666).
On the Canadian side, the Quality Inn, 4946 Clifton Hill (tel. 800/263-7137 or 905/358-3601), puts you in the middle of all the Disney-like action, as does the Super 8, 5706 Ferry St. (tel. 888/442-6095). You'll also find a Best Western, 6289 Fallsview Ave. (tel. 866/475-0004 or 905/356-0551).
Campgrounds
Set right on the shore of Lake Ontario, Four Mile Creek State Park, Lake Road, Youngstown (tel. 716/745-3802), is a huge expanse of park with 266 campsites and great views -- on a clear day you can see Toronto. Be sure to pay the few bucks extra for a prime site, which puts you right on the water. There's lots of exploring to do around here: The marsh at the mouth of Four Mile Creek is home to many varieties of wildlife, like great blue herons, along with hiking trails along densely wooded bluffs.
