I hadn’t been to Niagara Falls since the mid-70s when my sister and I left London to travel across the U.S. via Greyhound Bus. Those were the days! Back then, we saw the falls from the American side of the border, but I never made it across to the Canadian side until this summer. It was definitely worth the wait:)
It’s no surprise that Niagara Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders on the planet. And it is visited by over 20 million tourists from around the world each year. It’s one thing seeing it from a distance, but wait until you get up close and feel the mist… and hear the thunderous roar of the falls – it’s truly an exhilarating experience!The scenic promenade walk (on the Canadian side) offers the best views of the American Falls and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. It’s an amazing sight, day or night. Of course being from San Francisco, we couldn’t help but compare this spectacular walk to the one at Chrissy Field and the Marina Green, along San Francisco Bay, overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. Both views take our breath away.
How can you not be mesmerized by Niagara Falls? And to top it all off, it was a beautiful sunny day and we saw a double rainbow over the falls. M agical doesn’t begin to describe it!
Maid of the Mist Boat Rides
Don’t miss taking what could be one of the most thrilling boat rides of your life – aboard the “Maid of the Mist.” It’s a blast! Aptly named, because you actually feel the mist as you get an up-close view of Niagara Falls. Lightweight waterproof ponchos (with hoods) are provided to everyone (free with admission). They really come in handy when you get close to the falls (and you DO get close, so expect to get wet!), especially if it’s a windy day. Be sure to bring a waterproof “disposable” camera so you can capture the beauty of the falls up close (and get a picture of yourself, family and friends) – you don’t want to get your phone or digital camera wet. The “Maid of the Mist” boat ride was definitely one of the highlights of our visit to Niagara Falls. Boarding Docks are located on both the U.S. and Canadian sides of the border.
Fun Niagara Falls Tours and “Maid of the Mist” Boat Rides include:
Niagara Falls American-Side Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride
Niagara Falls Canadian-Side Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride
City of Niagara Falls – Skyline Tower Observation Deck and Niagara SkyWheel
Visit the City of Niagara Falls and get a bird’s eye view of the falls from the Skylon Tower Observation Deck – at 775 feet, it’s the tallest structure in the area and second-most famous landmark after Niagara Falls. Or ride the Niagara SkyWheel – a 175-ft ferris wheel, featuring fully-enclosed gondolas (with heating and air-conditioning for year-round comfort). Although the rides are only 8-12 minutes long, your memories will last a lifetime!
Fun Day Trips to Niagara Falls and Tours are also available from New York and Toronto. Note: Many Niagara Falls Tours are seasonal (May-October), so be sure to check dates prior to booking your tour.
Niagara Wine Country
And if you have time, explore the beautiful Niagara Wine Country , located in Ontario, Canada. It makes a fun getaway weekend destination. Enjoy wine-tasting at Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Escarpment Wineries.
More Info on New York City and Niagara Falls Day Trip from NY