Niagara Falls

One of the places I have enjoyed visiting most is Niagara Falls.  I've been there twice--once to each side.  It is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world (or at least America). Both sides are worth visiting.  The Canadian side has the best views, but the American side is less touristy.  

 

On the Canadian side there are plenty of touristy things to do from casinos to dinosaur golf to water parks.  There is no chance of being bored if you are there for a few days.  More importantly, the Canadian side has amazing panoramic views of the falls and several ways to experience them.  

After dark, the Canadian side runs the Falls Illumination, which has been done since 1925.  The falls are lit beautiful rainbow colors every evening and from time to time in special colors for special events.  I don't think my photos quite do it justice!

The Skylon Tower affords wonderful views from 775 feet above the falls from their observation deck (pardon the safety bars in my photos). The tower also boasts two restaurants, one of which is a revolving restaurant, and shopping, and arcade, and a 3D/4D movie theater.

Niagara Parks offer a close up view of the falls with their Journey Behind the Falls tour.  You take an elevator from the welcome center down to the tunnels that lead to two viewpoints, the Cataract Portal and Great Fall Portal.  From these portals, you can view the Horseshoe Falls and walk out on the deck for an even closer view.  

Probably the most exciting way to experience the falls is on the Maid of the Mist.  When I visited this was possible from both sides, however currently the Maid of the Mist only runs from the American side.  (There is a new company on the Canadian side)  This historic boat tour (which has been in operation well over 100 years) takes you right up to the American Falls and the Horseshoe Falls.  You will get wet, but you won't mind because you will be wearing a very fashionable poncho.  

 
Being so close to the falls, you have to be very careful with your camera or you end up with this:

On the American side the state park has another viewing tower.  Here is is, along with some fellow tourists.

And the view:

One final place for great views is Goat Island and it's smaller counterpart, Luna Island.  Goat Island can be reached by car or foot using one of two bridges.  Luna Island can be reached from Goat Island using a bridge that is only for pedestrians.  You really feel as close to the falls as possible here.  

 
For more information about the Canadian side check out the Niagara Parks website.
For more information about the American side check out the Niagara Falls State Park website.