The undeniable awe of Niagara Falls overwhelms anyone fortunate enough to feel the freshness of the mist from the colossal cascades thundering down the cliffs in this picturesque corner on the border of the United States and Canada—one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Niagara, literally translating to “thundering water,” is a waterfall standing at a height of 50 meters, a natural marvel and landmark majestically situated between Canada and the USA. Year after year, millions of tourists flock to North America to marvel at this embodiment of the power and beauty of nature. The sound of crashing water and clouds of mist serve as a prelude to the encounter with Niagara, long before it comes into view.
The legendary waterfall complex, including the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, is located near the five largest freshwater lakes: Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, proudly connecting the neighboring cities of Niagara Falls in Canada and the USA.
Close to the falls are two islands—Lunar and Goat Islands—and the water rushes down the cliff in three streams. Canada boasts the most impressive waterfall, the “Horseshoe Falls,” with a width of up to 800 meters, while the “Bridal Veil” and “American Falls” belong to the USA.
Niagara Falls is the most powerful and widest waterfall in North America, spanning over a kilometer in width and rising to a height of about 50 meters.
How to get there
There are two main routes for visiting Niagara Falls: from the Canadian or American side. If you choose the first option, it’s best to take a flight to Toronto and then travel to Niagara by bus. Buses depart every one and a half to two hours from the central bus station in Toronto or Union Station.
The journey takes about two hours, and the ticket cost is approximately $22 USD. Local buses run from the Niagara Falls bus station to the waterfall itself. Prices are as of July 2021.
For those who prefer day trips, there are options from New York, Toronto, or Ottawa. The nearest airport is Buffalo, just 40 km away.
To enjoy the view of Niagara Falls, you can opt for a helicopter ride and marvel at the beauty from above, or sail close to the waterfall on a boat and enjoy the view from below. At the base of the waterfall is the “Cave of the Winds,” which tourists descend to using a special elevator. Each visitor is provided with a raincoat and a bag for personal belongings since staying dry at Niagara is impossible.
An excellent option for visiting Niagara Falls is to choose bus tours, as experienced drivers have all the necessary information about exciting attractions and unique routes of this magnificent place. Details about the trip can be found by following this link.
Climate
Niagara Falls welcomes visitors all year round, offering unique experiences depending on the season. Summer is the optimal period to visit Niagara when the weather is warm and sunny, and the rushing waters impress with their power and beauty. In winter, when temperatures drop below freezing, the shores and observation platforms are covered in ice, creating a stunning icy spectacle. However, outdoor excursions can be quite chilly.
An extraordinary experience awaits visitors in winter in Canada when a festival of lights is held at Niagara Falls. Bright bursts of fireworks, illuminating the dark sky, reflect in the water streams and the icy halo of the waterfall, creating a captivating and magical landscape.
This period becomes a unique opportunity to see Niagara in an entirely new light and enjoy the winter fairy tale surrounding this magnificent natural phenomenon.
Entertainment and attractions at Niagara Falls
The best view of the unparalleled natural wonder, Niagara Falls, is available from the Table Rock platform, but many prefer the experience from the deck of the “Maid of the Mist” boats. They depart every half hour from both shores, providing passengers aboard the Maids VI and Maids VII ships (with a capacity of 600 people) with a unique experience. The ticket cost is $25.25 USD.
There is also an IMAX theater on-site, narrating the history of the waterfall, its discovery, and conquest. Here, an engaging museum showcases artifacts from those who attempted to conquer the falls, ranging from boats to rescue belts.
The surroundings of Niagara Falls also have their unique attractions. National parks, museums, and historical sites invite exploration.
Near the falls, the Niagara Botanical Gardens are enticing, occupying 100 acres and boasting the world’s largest floral clock with 19,000 flowers, refreshed twice a year.
At the Niagara Butterfly Conservatory, exotic plants from around the world thrive, surrounded by more than 2,000 species of butterflies from Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
Along the Niagara River is Queen Victoria Park, designed in a vintage style, offering a beautiful view of the waterfall and lovely landscapes in spring when cherry blossoms bloom or in summer when the rose garden is in full bloom.
Immersing yourself in the world of biology and geology becomes possible at Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, where scientists uncover the secrets of ancient lands and present unique natural formations.
In the city of Niagara Falls, you’ll find the Aviation Museum, a wax figure museum, and the William Mackenzie Political Museum, each offering its fascinating exhibits.
5. Amazing experiences to have at Niagara Falls
- Stroll across the “Rainbow Bridge”: Immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere as you stand on the border between the United States and Canada, enjoying the view of Niagara Falls from the “Rainbow Bridge,” located just a few hundred meters from the breathtaking natural wonder.
- Winter Festival of Lights: Dive into the enchantment of winter in Niagara by visiting the Canadian side of the falls to witness the vibrant and lively fireworks display at the “Winter Festival of Lights.”
- Capture the Rainbow Moment: Head to the Canadian side of the falls from noon until sunset to capture the splendid rainbow born from the misty splashes of Niagara.
- Journey to the “Cave of the Winds”: Witness firsthand the incredible spectacle of fish “traveling” up the falls by visiting the fascinating “Cave of the Winds.” The cost is $19 USD, and you’ll be amazed by this captivating sight.
- Maid of the Mist Boat Cruise: Explore the waters of Niagara on the renowned “Maid of the Mist” boat, named after the ancient Indigenous mythical character Ongiara. Experience the power of the falls surrounded by the misty whirlwind of this thrilling adventure.
