Amanda PhillipsVisiting the Niagara Falls
On the border of America and Canada lies one of the world’s most mesmerising waterfalls. Located on the Niagara River, it is the reason this is one of the world’s most visited borders. While holidaying in the province of Ontario or the state of New York, visiting the Niagara Falls is a must.
About the falls
There are actually three waterfalls that straddle the American/Canadian border: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls. The first one is the semi-circular fall that is the most powerful waterfall in North America and is part of Canada, while the other two belong to America. Two islands are can be seen at the top of the falls – these are Goat Island and Luna Island, which separate the waterfalls.
Which country to view it from
While it might be the same cluster of waterfalls, the two countries provide a very different experience of the Niagra Falls. The American side is contained within a state park and has many scenic walks where the areas natural beauty has been preserved. The Canadian side is within the built-up city of Niagara Falls with neon-lit streets, restaurants, street performers and shopping.
It’s been argued that the Canadian side offers the best views. From Ontario you can view all three of the waterfalls, but from the American side – while you’ll get a clearer view of the American falls – the Canadian falls will be slightly camouflaged.
Boat Tours
To see the falls up close the best option is to take a boat tour along the lower river. From the American side you can board the renowned Maid of the Mist and from Canada you can book a trip on the Hornblower Niagara Cruise. Both companies offer tours starting in April right through to October, and provide spectacular views of all three waterfalls. Just remember to buy a poncho for the mist.
Fireworks Schedule
In the warmer months both the USA and Canada schedule the world-famous Niagra Falls Fireworks Display. The illumination of the falls happens after the sun goes down throughout the year but on certain days during the spring and summer a fireworks display is a regular sight (usually at 10pm).
Cities near the falls
Both sides are home to cities that share the name Niagara Falls but are quite different from one another: the Canadian city is bustling and tourist-centric while the American equivalent is much smaller and is more suited to those wanting a calmer trip. The Ontario capital Toronto is an hour and a half drive away and the Canadian capital Ottawa is five hours by car. In New York State, the city of Buffalo is a half hour drive and Rochester an hour and a half in the opposite direction. If you want to work NYC into your trip, you’ll be looking at a six hour drive (which includes cutting through Pennsylvania).
Crossing the border
You can stand and wave at the neighbouring country, or you can cross the border and tick off two countries in one trip – provided you have a passport, another form of ID, a car that is allowed in the other county (some rental agreements don’t allow this) and spare change for the toll fee.