Hey Sinpguy...
I haven't landed myself yet, but have helped numerous friends land by driving them to Niagara or just going with them in the bus.
First, you need to land either with your wife or before... So you better make that trip to the border before she comes.
If your friend is driving you, that's better and more convenient, you may follow what Tanoshi told and go to Peace Bridge and make a U-turn. Peace Bridge is at the Fort Erie - Buffalo border. However, keep in mind, that if you miss the U-turn by mistake, you'll end up at the American side. You have to explain the American Border officials that you came for landing and do not wish to enter US. The Americans will give you a letter refusing entry into US (assuming you don't have US visa) and send you back to Canada. This is normal, but, in the future if you are planning to apply for a US visit visa, you have to declare 'every time you were declined entry into the United States on their form'. So if your friend doesn't have US visa or is not a citizen, you want to avoid troubling your friend with this hassle. (A friend of mine had 2 'refusal of entry' letters from the US side, he had a tough time in his interview for US visa, though was granted one. He also had a tough time entering US for the first time after getting his visa and getting his I-94)
I agree Rainbow Bridge is busy, it's right in front of the falls!! But if you go there at night or early morning, it should be fairly free. You can take a Bus to Niagara falls, ON or ask you friend to drive you there.. Then, WALK across the bridge and enjoy the amazing sight
. Go to the American side, and come back walking. Atleast 3 of my friends have done their landing by walking back. The Rainbow bridge is open to Pedestrians crossing the border. The toll for Pedestrians is 50cents (so make sure you have change). If you avoid rush hours, this process will only take you about half an hour.
