I have never been there, I need a few days vacation on a budget.
Drive by car is about 6-7 hours.
Which hotel?
Which lens? I want to go lighter so we can enjoy nature.
Is a tripod a must?
Lenses to choose:
14-24-70-200 /2.8 trio.
20/1.8
50/1.2 & 1.8
85/1.2
105 MC
400/4.5
800pf
TC’s.
Z8, or Z9?
Thanks!
I’d stay on the Canadian side, if possible. The hotels right in the midst of it all are expensive, but there are a number of decent smaller motels and inns just up the road a bit, still offering an easy walk down to where you want to be. Plan for crowds, especially in summer. There’s also a very nice butterfly conservatory on the Canadian side, just up the road a few miles from the falls.
As for lenses, go short. No need for longer lenses or TCs. Leave macro out, unless you’re planning on visiting the butterfly place. Your 14-24 and 20mm would be perfect. The 70-200 might offer some nice scenics, so it’s worth throwing into your bag too. Bring a tripod, and ND and polarizing filters for those longer exposures of flowing water.
Canada offers the best views of the falls by far, although the American side also can be interesting for up close to the water (river and falls). If you don’t have proper IDs to get across the Canadian border (passport, enhanced DL, Nexus), just be content with what the American side offers - it’s still pretty spectacular. The Niagara River gorge also offers some very nice vistas, and there are beautiful parks that allow you to climb down to the waters edge safely (although the stairs are work!). Goat Island is worth a look.
Although a bit touristy, a ride on the Maid of the Mist tour boat is a fun experience, especially if you have kids (they will love it). Just leave your cameras at home, and plan to get wet, but it’s all worth it. The boat takes you right up to the cataract.
Good luck, and have fun!