The cheapest beds in town are offered by Hosteling International Niagara Falls (1101 Ferry Ave., 716/282-3700). Seven dormitory rooms are equipped with four, six, or eight beds ($17/night for members, $20/night for nonmembers), and two private rooms have beds for three ($22/night for members, $25/night for nonmembers). Also on site are laundry and kitchen facilities.

One B&B choice in the area is Hillcrest Inn (1 Hillcrest St., 716/278-9676, www.hillcrestniagara.com, $119–159), with full hot breakfast served on a sun porch overlooking the river, based on availability.

Hotel Giacomo (222 Rainbow Blvd., 716/299-0200, www.thegiacomo.com, $120-170, incl. breakfast), is a 38-room luxury boutique hotel that offers art deco lofts and modern suites within a 1929 historic and signature Niagara building.

The Seneca Nation of Indians is one of six nations that comprise the Iroquois Confederacy which supports its own people with a variety of cultural and economic efforts, including Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel (310 4th St., 877/873-6322, www.senecaniagaracasino.com, $125–185). The property also offers a full service spa in a modern showy 26-floor, 600-room casino hotel, with all the benefits and drawbacks that might entail.