Niagara Falls is a stunning stretch of clashing and colliding land and water, lying on the border of the US and Canada. Shared by the state of New York and the Province of Ontario, this gorgeous natural wonder is arguably one of the most well-known tourist destinations in North America. Niagara Falls is made up of 3 large waterfalls that generate hydroelectric power, and also give us an unbeatable background for any traveler's photo album.
With over 28 million tourists every year making their way to these powerful waterfalls, we know it can't just be a clean source of energy and a good view. The Falls are much more than that, with numerous activities offered from zip lining to cave explorations. Any journey to these roaring droves of water encapsulates a massive area beyond the Niagara Gorge and through the neighboring lakes and cities. Let's take a look at some of the sights you'll see on this journey, starting with the three formidable but stunning waterfalls.
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Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the three, lies on the US-Canada border, mostly in Ontario. The smaller two falls as well as Goat Island and Luna Island, which separate the falls, are situated in New York. Cruise boats are operated on either side of the Niagara Gorge. The best-known tourist attraction of the Falls, the Maid of the Mist cruise is operated from the American side, while its counterpart Hornblower Cruises is available in Ontario. These cruises take you right under the falls, and many also offer tours through the islands and their attractions.
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In case you're saving the cruise for later in your trip, both sides also offer incredible views of the falls accessible by foot. In New York, the American Falls can be seen from the Prospect Point Observation Tower in Prospect Point Park, which is also where the Maid of the Mist is docked so you can book your cruise while you take in the prologue for it. There is even a walking path in the park that takes you through the best parts of the Niagara Falls State Park.
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Moving across the border, we can approach the Falls through Queen Victoria Park, which offers paths through observation rooms that give you a dreamlike view of the two larger falls. For the avid hiker and history buff, the Niagara River Recreational Trail is a must-try 35-mile adventure, peppered historical treasures, and towns like Fort George and Fort Erie. Of course, the cream of the crop is the Skylon towers, the highest vantage point any traveler can get of the falls.
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The gorge is located between the twin cities of Niagara Falls, New York, and Niagara Falls, Ontario, which is where Niagara Falls State Park and Queen Victoria State Park are located respectively. These two cities offer their own wide array of fun activities for visitors to Niagara Falls. Ontario offers you a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car and a fun day at Clifton Hill, a collection of eateries and entertaining activities like mini-golf and museums. New York offers the best cruises that take you under the falls, through the islands, and to the mysterious Cave of Winds.
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Depending on the sights you want to see (and how wet you're willing to get), Niagara Falls serves up a platter of nature, beauty, and real family fun. It can even get the creative juices flowing and inspire panoramic works of art like these.
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Niagara Falls is currently being reopened in phases to maintain safety protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you're planning to make the trip, make sure to reach out to Niagara Falls USA and Niagara Falls Canada to determine the precautions and procedures in place for visiting so you can enjoy your travels with absolute safety!
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