A trip to Niagara Falls immediately came to mind as I was thinking about a getaway that is accessible, affordable and appropriate for families of all sizes and age ranges. The beauty and grandeur of the Falls, and their relative proximity to New Jersey, make it a destination that has unlimited possibilities.Located on the international borders of New York (about 25 miles from Buffalo) and Ontario, Canada (about 75 miles from Toronto), Niagara Falls actually encompasses a set of three waterfalls – Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and American Falls. Peak water flow from the Niagara River creates the powerful Falls, which boast the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world. While they can be seen from both sides, the best panoramic views are from the Canadian side. (Visitors must have a valid passport or other legal documents to travel between the two borders.)
Late spring to early fall is the most popular and crowded time to visit. The crowds thin out a bit in late May to early June, and from early September to early October. The Falls are breathtakingly illuminated in LED lights on many nights throughout the busy season for special occasions and holidays.In winter, when natural ice sculptures frame the Falls, the area transforms into a magical and festive wonderland.
There are many ways to view the Falls on foot or by boat. From the U.S. side, walk or take public transportation across the Rainbow Bridge (carrying authorized travel documents) to The Promenade, which stretches between Table Rock Welcome Center to Hornblower Niagara Cruises Plaza, and has spectacular views of all three falls.Perhaps the most memorable way to experience Niagara Falls is by taking famous Maid of the Mist boat tour. Beginning at the Observation Tower, guests are given a souvenir rain poncho before boarding the double decker tour boat. The dramatic boat ride travels over rapidly moving whitewater and past huge rock formations, passing the base of the American Falls and into the basin of Horseshoe Falls, with the thunderous roar and continuous mist of the falls all around you. After this unforgettable experience, the power and grandeur of the Falls remains with you for life. Those seeking more adventure may want to zip line across the Falls or take a Whirlpool Jet Tour on the Niagara River.
There are many attractions, in addition to The Promenade, around Niagara Falls, all located along the scenic Niagara Parkway. Niagara Botanical Park and Butterfly Conservatory is a wonderful place to walk among beautiful flowers and plants. And hikers will want to experience the trails of Niagara Glen. Clifton Hill is the touristy area, filled with themed attractions, arcades, gift shops, hotels and restaurants.The Falls View area has more upscale hotels, an indoor water park, a resort and casino and other attractions. From there, the Niagara Incline Railway transports visitors to the Welcome Center in under a minute. Lundy’s Lane is home to historical museums, hotels, restaurants, entertainment, outlet shopping and another indoor water park. There are three full-service campgrounds located there as well.
If you just want to see the Falls, one full day there is enough. If you want to extend your stay a few days, there is plenty to do in the region, such as: exploring the 400 acres of Niagara State Park’s trails and gardens (designed by Central Park’s architect, Frederick Law Olmsted), visiting the notable Niagara Falls Aquarium, taking a day trip to Lockport Locks and Eerie Canal Cruises, exploring Lockport Cave and Underground Boat Ride, spending the day on a winery tour in nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, or visiting Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House, just to name a few. You can see that there is plenty to see and do in the region for lovers of nature, history buffs, adventure- seekers and just about anyone who is open to experiencing one of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders