Niagara Falls (Ontario, Canada – New York, USA)

Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls situated at the southern end of the Niagara Gorge, which straddles the border between the Canadian province of Ontario and the US state of New York. The largest of these three waterfalls is the Horseshoe Falls, which spans the international border between the two countries. The American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are situated within the borders of the United States. There are two international bridges spanning the Niagara River, facilitating passage between Ontario and New York. The Rainbow Bridge, situated just below the falls, is open to non-commercial vehicle traffic and pedestrians. The centre of the bridge is considered the border. The Whirlpool Rapids Bridge, the oldest of the bridges, is located approximately 1.5 kilometres north of the Rainbow Bridge. There are a number of bridges across the Niagara River in the general vicinity of the falls.

The Falls were formed by the retreat of glaciers at the end of the Wisconsin glaciation (the last ice age). Water from the newly formed Great Lakes carved a path over and through the Niagara Escarpment as it flowed towards the Atlantic Ocean. The Niagara Falls were formed by the Niagara River, which drains Lake Erie into Lake Ontario before flowing into the Atlantic Ocean via the St. Lawrence River. Horseshoe Falls is approximately 57 m (187 ft) high. Measured by flow rate, it is the most powerful waterfall in North America. The Niagara River is an important bird area. Several thousand birds migrate there and spend the winter in the surrounding area. Famous for its breathtaking scenery, Niagara Falls is also a valuable source of hydroelectric power. Under a 1950 agreement signed by the US and Canada to protect the natural beauty of Niagara Falls, the amount of water used by power stations is restricted.

A magnificent natural wonder, Niagara Falls also holds great significance in terms of history and tourism. Theodosia Burr Alston (daughter of Vice-President Aaron Burr) and her husband Joseph Alston are recorded as the first couple to visit the falls on their honeymoon in 1801. Visits to Niagara Falls, known to have been discovered as early as 1604, saw a significant increase following the 1953 release of the film “Niagara”, starring Marilyn Monroe and Joseph Cotten. The legendary Falls, which have been the scene of daring feats such as barrel-diving from the falls and crossing a rope suspended over the river without safety equipment, have featured in films, inspired compositions, and consistently captivated artists.

The busiest period for visitor traffic is during the summer months. During this time, Niagara Falls is a focal point both by day and by night. Projectors illuminate both sides of the falls from dusk until midnight, offering a breathtaking view.

Niagara Falls, USA

Niagara Falls State Park: It is America’s oldest state park. It is home to over 400 acres of protected wildlife. The park offers an incredible experience, full of adventure and suitable for the whole family, accompanied by stunning views. Niagara Falls, USA, is brimming with free open-air concerts, festivals and various events.

Niagara Falls State Park Observation Tower: It offers the only panoramic view of the three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls, including the American Falls. You can also go birdwatching there. Birdwatchers have the opportunity to spot hawks, bald eagles and many different species of gulls in the Niagara Gorge.

Niagara Scenic Trolley: Offers guided tours along the American Falls and around Goat Island. Enjoy the breathtaking views on this magnificent tram!

Niagara Aquarium: You can reach this aquarium, situated within Niagara Falls State Park, by taking the Niagara Scenic Trolley within the park or by enjoying a pleasant walk along the park’s trails. It’s a perfect spot for children and anyone fascinated by aquatic life. If you’re ready to meet playful penguins, jellyfish, various fish species, fascinating insects, rescued seals and sea lions, and much more, this wonderful venue is just the place for you!

Schoellkopf Power Station: Built in three phases between 1905 and 1924, it was the world’s largest hydroelectric power station upon completion. Take the lift up to the Niagara Gorge to explore the remains of the old Schoellkopf Power Station, which was demolished in 1956!

Boat trips: Sightseeing boats operate from jetties on both sides of the falls. Niagara Falls boat trips are highly popular.

“Beyond The View” Walking Tour: Enjoy the magnificent views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Observe the stunning beauty of Niagara Falls State Park on an unforgettable guided walking tour featuring wheelchair-accessible trails!

Cave of the Winds: World-renowned. It promises the most thrilling view of Niagara Falls. The Cave of the Winds is open all year round.

Niagara Wineries: The wineries in the Niagara Falls region of the USA offer an impressive selection of traditional, local, late-harvest and ice wines.

Niagara Falls Underground Railway Heritage Centre: Be sure to visit to better understand the stories of those who opposed slavery and sought freedom!

Herschell Carousel Factory Museum: Visit this museum, which was a factory producing wooden carousels until the 1930s, and take a ride on an authentic Herschell wooden carousel!

Art Alley NF: Located just a few minutes’ walk from Niagara Falls State Park. Take the opportunity to admire plenty of street art! You’ll see some stunning works of art!

Riviera Theatre & Performing Arts Centre: Located in North Tonawanda. Be sure to pop in for live music and theatre!

Rainbow Air Helicopter Tours: Offers visitors from all over the world a magnificent 15-minute flight experience.

Lewiston’s Artpark: An innovative open-air venue situated at the top of the Niagara River Gorge. Be sure to visit during the summer months! In summer and autumn, you can also visit local farms for family-friendly activities such as autumn mazes and pumpkin picking.

Niagara Falls, Canada

Niagara Parks: Located in Canada. It spans the Niagara River corridor, from Fort Erie and Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake. It is brimming with stunning beauty to discover! You can make use of the hop-on, hop-off WEGO bus system for a comfortable journey.

Hiking Adventures Around Niagara Parks: Niagara Parks offers 15 kilometres of hiking trails passing through six distinct natural areas. Many of these are home to some of the country’s rarest plants and animals.

Queen Victoria Park: The crown jewel of the Niagara Parks and the main destination for viewing the majestic Niagara Falls. It boasts a valuable collection of both native and international plant species.

Niagara Parks Power Station: Discover the first major power station on the Canadian side of the Niagara River! Engaging exhibitions, restored artefacts and interactive storytelling make for a fascinating experience. The Niagara Parks Power Station is perfect for the whole family. Watch the transformation of the once-dormant power station come to life at night with a spectacular show! Step back in time to witness the Niagara River cascading down the cliffs and crashing onto the ground around you, and see the river freeze as the Ice Age begins! Then, as the world warms again, feel the lush landscape fill once more with rivers, trees and a stunning new geological wonder!

Journey Behind the Falls: Explore the 130-year-old tunnels carved through the rock, 38 m (125 ft) below ground. Standing behind the falls, you will see, hear and feel its power. Up to 168,000 cubic metres of water per second rushes over the edge of Horseshoe Falls at a speed of 65 kilometres per hour. To avoid getting wet from the spray of the majestic waterfall, we recommend wearing your iconic poncho. You can then explore exhibitions detailing the fascinating history of Niagara Falls, their natural formation processes and many other intriguing topics!

White Water Walk: Located along the banks of the Niagara River, the White Water Walk allows you to experience the power of the currents first-hand. This wonderful experience begins with a lift ride that takes you down to the base of the Niagara Gorge. After passing through a long tunnel, you’ll reach a wooden walkway right at the water’s edge. Several viewing platforms branching off from the wooden walkway will allow you to get even closer to the breathtaking Whirlpool Rapids. The water is extremely dangerous for rafting and canoeing. However, some stunning views and great photo opportunities await you!

Skylon Tower: Skylon Tower offers the most breathtaking and highest views of Niagara Falls. The tower features three ‘Yellow Bug’ lifts mounted on the exterior. You can reach the observation decks in seconds via a glass lift. Thanks to the 360-degree view, you can also admire the scenery stretching all the way to Toronto in the opposite direction. Standing at a height of 158 m (520 ft) and rising 236 m (775 ft) above the Falls, the Skylon Tower promises unforgettable moments! You’ll absolutely love the night-time view!

Whirlpool Aero Car: Designed by the famous Spanish engineer Leonardo Torres Quevedo, the Whirlpool Aero Car has been in service since 1916. Hop aboard the historic Whirlpool Aero Car for an unforgettable journey over the Niagara River. As you glide high above the Niagara Gorge, enjoy the magnificent views of the river’s currents! Although the cable car travels between two points on the Canadian shore, it will take you across the international border between Canada and the United States a total of four times, and no passport is required.

WildPlay Whirlpool Adventure Course: The Whirlpool Adventure Course at Thompson Point offers an exciting and fun experience with suspended obstacles and ziplines set amidst nature.

WildPlay Zipline: Embark on an exhilarating journey to the falls, gliding past the Bridal Veil Falls and descending to the observation deck at the base of the Horseshoe Falls. Experience a spectacular adventure by skydiving at the Niagara Freefall & Interactive Centre!

Clifton Hill: Iconic and packed with fun activities for the whole family. Niagara Skywheel, Niagara Raceway, Dinosaur Adventure Golf, Wizards’ Mini Golf, Movieland Wax Museum, Ripley’s Museum, Strike Play Area, Carnival Chaos, Zombie Attack, 4D Toy Shop, Big Canadian Midway, Ghost Busters, Fallsview Indoor Water Park, Niagara Falls Helicopters and Niagara City Tours. What more could you ask for! Enjoy a whole host of fun experiences!

Ripley’s Museum: Located on Clifton Hill, this extraordinary venue features over 500 mind-boggling, rare and entertaining oddities. You’ll see the world’s most incredible traditions, unusual hobbies and strangest artefacts from all corners of the globe. Stories of daredevils who have braved the waterfalls, dozens of interactive displays and so much more will captivate you!

Butterfly Conservatory: This place is truly enchanting, home to over 2,000 live butterflies flitting along winding paths surrounded by lush greenery and waterfalls! Brightly coloured clothing and lovely scents might catch their attention. They might even land on you. What a wonderful moment!

Flower Exhibition Hall: It hosts various live flower exhibitions throughout the year. Important festivals, community events and the wonders of nature are celebrated in this enchanting venue! You could even hold your wedding ceremony there!

Niagara Falls History Museum: Take a journey through time at the Niagara Falls History Museum! Discover the city’s rich history through fascinating and captivating galleries!

Old Fort Erie: Situated on the banks of the Niagara River. There, within the War of 1812 National Historic Site, you can experience the sights and sounds of a besieged fort.

McFarland House: Built in the early 19th century by the Scottish-born John McFarland, the house was used as a military hospital during the War of 1812. Today, costumed guides provide tours of this historic house.

Plaques and Markers: Over 100 monuments and plaques identifying landmarks, events and people of historical significance to the region are located along the Niagara Park Trail.

Dufferin Islands: This popular spot is a stunning 10-acre site.

Oakes Garden Theatre: A central amphitheatre opened in 1937.

Queenston Chapel: Built in 1862, the chapel features authentic Gothic-style stained-glass windows and elegant curved oak pews.

Mather Arch Park: Mather Arch is a beautiful monument surrounded by well-tended gardens.

Flower Clock: Follow the Niagara Park Trail towards Niagara-on-the-Lake and visit the famous Flower Clock, designed with thousands of carpet plants in the Niagara Parks!

Queenston Heights Park: Combines fun and history. It is situated atop the Niagara Escarpment at the northern end of Niagara Parks. It offers picturesque walking trails, picnic areas, tennis courts and a water park for children.

Rock Climbing: Rock climbing permits can be purchased from the Niagara Glen Nature Centre and Butterfly Conservatory.

Laura Secord Farm: This historic farm is situated in the village of Queenston, just off the Niagara Parkway.

Mackenzie Printing House: Located in the charming village of Queenston, the Mackenzie Printing House offers a hands-on experience with a working typesetting machine and eight operational heritage printing presses. Don’t miss the rare Louis Roy Printing Press—Canada’s oldest printing press and one of the few remaining original wooden printing presses in the world! There, 500 years of printing technology is showcased amidst the authentic atmosphere of a period-style print shop.