The Niagara Falls are one of the most stunning natural attractions in the world. They draw explorers, honeymooners, and daredevils.
During peak flow season, 750,000 gallons of water descend over the Falls every second.
Located on the Niagara River, this natural border between Canada and the United States, this landmark is an unforgettable experience that everyone must see.
Is Niagara Falls Canada or the USA?
The three waterfalls of Niagara Falls straddle the border between the United States and Canada. The Horseshoe Falls, which is found on the Canadian side of the border, carries a million bathtubs worth of water every minute during peak tourist hours.
The Bridal Veil Falls, separated from Horseshoe Falls by Goat Island and Luna Island, is situated in the United States. These falls are tall and thin, reminiscent of a bridal veil. High wire tightrope acts used to perform across the river here, most famously Niagara’s own Blondin.
Whether you choose to dine at Top of the Falls on the American side or take the Maid of the Mist on the Canadian side, the beauty of these cascades is unquestionable. The best time to visit the falls is during September. The crowds will have thinned out and the weather is typically perfect for getting a little wet. It’s also the cheapest time to see the falls since most places will still be open during this period.
The American Side
The American side of Niagara Falls resides in Western New York and allows visitors to see the Horseshoe, Bridal Veil, and American Falls up close. It also offers several excursions and vantage points that provide panoramic views of the falls.
From the American side, guests can take a Maid of the Mist ride to get up close to the Horseshoe and American Falls. This tour includes a souvenir poncho!
In addition to tourist attractions, the American side of Niagara Falls is home to several businesses that are vital to the local economy. These include processing foods, abrasives, chemicals, automotive parts, metal and paper goods, as well as information technology/call centers.
The American side of the waterfall is a tourist trap with its numerous casinos, eateries, haunted houses, wax museums, and other gaudy entertainment attractions. However, it still has a lot of natural beauty to offer as well.
The Canadian Side
A whirlpool of rushing waters that straddles the international border between Canada and America, Niagara Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder. While it’s difficult to decide between the American or Canadian side, there are plenty of attractions on both sides to satisfy visitors.
Many of the same attractions can be found on both sides of the Falls, but each has a distinct flavor and offers something different from its rival. The most iconic of these is the Maid of the Mist, a boat that takes visitors close up to Horseshoe and Bridal Veil Falls.
Aside from the thrills of the boats, visitors can also enjoy the walking trails of Queen Victoria Park and the vantage points on Goat Island, Luna Island, and Rainbow Bridge. Those looking for more adventure can test their mettle on the Niagara Zipline or visit Niagara’s Fury, a museum that simulates an experience in the gorge. The water that flows over the Falls ultimately drains into Lake Ontario, which then flows to the Atlantic Ocean.
What to Do in Niagara Falls
From the thrill of Maid of the Mist to the tranquility of Cave of the Winds there is plenty to see and do at Niagara Falls. The American side is home to a host of fun outdoor activities and guided experiences while the Canadian side offers family-friendly attractions like the 4D movie Niagara Fury and the historic Laura Secord Homestead.
There’s also lots to see and do at the Niagara River State Park where you can take a trolley tour that tells you all about the history of the falls. Or explore behind the falls on a Journey Behind the Falls tour that takes you through tunnels where you can experience the mist and the roar of Horseshoe Falls.
If you are looking for a romantic evening, look no further than Niagara Falls at night when they put on a fireworks show every summer. Watching the Horseshoe and American Falls light up in a rainbow of colors is breathtaking.
