After 23 years I was revisiting what to many is considered one of the world’s wonders, that is Niagara Falls. The first visit had left me with memories of a magnificent waterfall surrounded by an industry of tat and tackiness that had grown around this marvel of nature. My expectations weren’t high.
Once ensconced in the Marriott Fallsview Hotel, with it’s magnificent views of the Horseshoe Falls, my defences were slowly eroded. Waking up to a sunrise over the falls is an ethereal experience, but I wondered if I would become bored of the view after a five day stay. This was not the case – the power and organic nature of the falls was actually more hypnotic by the day.
Niagara was home to Rendezvous Canada, a trade show where Canadian tourism providers promoted their wares to the International market. Having a free day prior to the event myself and my colleague decided to take a walk and explore the city. The city is clean and had definitely transformed into a tourism destination worth more than a day visit, which is something I had been guilty of recommending to my clients. The Casino industry seems to have helped transform the ugly duckling into a beautiful swan (okay let’s not get carried away …. An attractive duck will suffice).
One point of interest which will probably not be in the guidebooks was a shop which specialised in selling Hot Peppers called the Pepper Palace. There are apparently a number of franchised outlets around North America, but this was like heaven to two spice loving amigos. After trying pretty much the top end of hot sauces we went for the kill with a taste of the Flashbang Hot Sauce – which required us signing a disclaimer before we put sauce to lips. It was certainly hot but by this time we had warmed-up our taste buds and we walked away unharmed and about $60 lighter.
Most of the area around the falls is like parkland and easily explored on foot. There are various vantage points for excellent photos of the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and the smaller Bridal Veil Falls. Popular with tourists from around the world you may have to fight off the ever-multiplying selfie-stick brigade to position yourself for a decent picture of any of the waterfalls.
My Top Five Things To Do would be:
1: Niagara City Cruise Voyage to the Falls (formerly Hornblower)
Perhaps the main attraction worth trying which offers a close-up experience is the Hornblower Cruise which gets close and personal with the falls. Be prepared to get wet though….and cold….but feeling the force of this wonder from the river below is an experience well worth any minor discomfort.
2. Journey Behind the Falls
Once you’ve dried off a bit, head over to Journey Behind the Falls. This unique experience allows you to explore the tunnels that lead behind the mighty Horseshoe Falls. You’ll walk through the mist and emerge at observation decks where you can witness the powerful cascades from an entirely different perspective. It’s an eye-opening experience to see the falls from behind, and you’ll gain a new appreciation for the sheer power of nature. Just be prepared for some cool mist!
3. Explore Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
After all that excitement, you might want to take a breather in a more tranquil setting. The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens is just the place. Spanning 99 acres, these gardens are home to an incredible variety of plants and flowers. It’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas. You can stroll through the beautifully manicured pathways, enjoy the fragrant blooms, and take some stunning photos. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some local wildlife!
4. Wine Tasting in Niagara-on-the-Lake
No visit to Niagara Falls is complete without indulging in some local wine. Just a short drive from the falls is Niagara-on-the-Lake, a charming town known for its vineyards and wineries. Book a wine tour or simply explore the area on your own. Sample some world-class wines, from ice wine to bold reds, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes dotted with grapevines. Many wineries also have lovely restaurants where you can pair your wine with delicious local cuisine. Cheers to that!
5. Night Illumination of the Falls
Finally, don’t miss the breathtaking night illumination of the falls. Every evening, the falls are lit up in a rainbow of colors, creating a magical atmosphere. You can catch this stunning display from various viewpoints, but the best spots are near the Table Rock Welcome Centre or the Skylon Tower. It’s a romantic setting for couples and a great way to wrap up a day of adventure. Bring your camera to capture the beauty—trust me, you’ll want to remember this!
Bonus: Helicopter Ride Over Niagara Falls
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Niagara Falls like never before with a thrilling helicopter ride! Soar high above the iconic waterfalls and take in stunning aerial views of the cascading waters, lush landscapes, and the surrounding areas. As you glide above the falls, you’ll witness the powerful rush of water from a unique vantage point, capturing the vibrant colors of the rainbow that often arches over the mist. The ride lasts approximately 15-20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in the awe-inspiring sights while a knowledgeable guide shares fascinating facts about this natural wonder. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for an unforgettable adventure, a helicopter ride over Niagara Falls promises an exhilarating experience that will create lasting memories.
There are a whole host of other attractions to keep the whole family happy with indoor water parks, waxworks, museums, casinos, theatres as well as local excursions – the local wineries are worth a visit as is the delightful historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
For more information visit the Niagara Falls Tourism site.
