Let’s don our adventure hats for just a moment and picture the earliest settlers to North America stepping up to view this magnificent vista Native Americans first anointed Niagara Falls over a millennium ago. The gateway to the Great Lakes is one of the true wonders of the world, comprising an incredible 25 percent of the Globe’s fresh water. It is a panorama guaranteed to move your mood meter to excellent. One can hardly stand overlooking this water spectacular without thinking of those early pioneers embarking on their long, arduous and, yes, dangerous journey to settle the west. To these early pilgrims the West started at Niagara Falls formed at the end of the Ice Age when billions of gallons of water was released from the melting ice; ultimately creating the marvel we now call the Great Lakes. The force of the water wore away the rock layers and Niagara Falls moved upstream, reaching its present location.
You cannot underestimate the educational dividend this visit can pay, especially for children. Niagara Falls is the birthplace of hydroelectric power. On part of the tour, “Journey Beyond the Falls”, you can visit the historic power plant, and see the unique ways the natural splendor of Niagara and hydroelectric generation have existed in harmony. You’d be hard pressed not to pause at the miracle of the area by dropping 180 feet below floor level and walking through 2,200-foot-long man-made tunnels that lead out to the viewing observation deck. It is quite a place! One of the most captivating aspects we stumbled upon is the magnetic pull this venue has had for generations of daredevils and thrill seekers searching for fame by cresting the falls, risking death or serious injury plunging to the bottom in barrels or other unsafe conveyances. For those of you who love natural wonders and enjoy history this is a bucket list must experience. We recommend going to the Canada side of the falls to gain a close-up personal view.
During the winter months, the area is filled up with lights and has a festive spirit, including an evening light show illuminating the falls. There are firework displays happening twice daily and on New Year’s Eve a celebratory explosion at midnight. And for those who like the sound of rolling dice and the rhythm of the roulette wheel, there is ample fun at the many Casinos that offer much of the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. The area has something to offer everyone—from the falls, the cool underground tunnels, the force of water, amusement rides, nature and geography, a trip to the area sparks wonder and awe. It is a sight to behold and makes for a magical way of spending holidays with family.
If you are considering a trip to Niagara Falls, read on for some well researched tips.
- Book a room with the Hilton Hotel that has FULL view access to American and Horseshoe Falls. I guarantee you’ll enjoy having a warm cozy place to watch the twice daily fireworks and it’s a great way to start your morning too.
- Get tickets to Journey Behind the Falls at the Visitor Center which includes, Niagara’s Fury movie and simulation experience, self-guided tour to underground tunnels and observation deck, power plant and butterfly museum.
- Get away from the overpriced, mediocre quality restaurants and head to Niagara on the Lake for dinner around 20 minutes from Niagara Falls. We enjoyed a lovely meal at Cannery Row at Pillar and Post and NOTL has an adorable downtown area with other several good restaurants and wineries.
- Book ahead of time and enjoy a New Year’s Eve pedicure at Christienne Fallsview Spa that has a gorgeous view of the falls and surrounding area.
- Eat dinner at a local authentic family run Italian restaurant called Zappi’s – 10-minute walk from the Hilton Hotel.