The spectacular Niagara Falls are one of the wonders of the natural world and annually attract around ten million visitors. The falls provide plenty of fun for a day, but there's also dining, shopping and other entertainment close by.
The Falls actually crash down in two separate parts. The Canadian Horseshoe Falls are traditionally the main focus - while the (slightly) higher American Falls are just a little bit more frightening.
Up until the 1950s, the force of the River Niagara was so great that the mouth of the Horseshoe Falls was receding by as much as three feet a year. But, since various dams and power plants have been built, the river flow is now more even.
There are many ways to enjoy this awesome wonder. Visitors can view the falls from above anytime without charge. Fainter hearts may prefer to watch the crashing water from a safe distance, some venture out in boats and get soaked. Nocturnal types and honeymooners go to the night-time events - such as the firework displays that throw colours over the water.
But if you can handle it, a simple way is to go with the throng of whooping tourists to the walkway behind the Falls. This means actually standing behind the cascading water. You need serious waterproofs to protect you from the spray, and you can forget about having a conversation. The huge torrents of water cascading 52 metres down from the cliff generate a deafening roar.
Niagara has attracted millions of tourists and for a good reason: we all need to be reminded once in a while of our proper place on planet Earth. Although open throughout the year, the climate is kindest and the skies the clearest from June to October.
Up until the 1950s, the force of the River Niagara was so great that the mouth of the Horseshoe Falls was receding by as much as three feet a year. But, since various dams and power plants have been built, the river flow is now more even.
There are many ways to enjoy this awesome wonder. Visitors can view the falls from above anytime without charge. Fainter hearts may prefer to watch the crashing water from a safe distance, some venture out in boats and get soaked. Nocturnal types and honeymooners go to the night-time events - such as the firework displays that throw colours over the water.
But if you can handle it, a simple way is to go with the throng of whooping tourists to the walkway behind the Falls. This means actually standing behind the cascading water. You need serious waterproofs to protect you from the spray, and you can forget about having a conversation. The huge torrents of water cascading 52 metres down from the cliff generate a deafening roar.
Niagara has attracted millions of tourists and for a good reason: we all need to be reminded once in a while of our proper place on planet Earth. Although open throughout the year, the climate is kindest and the skies the clearest from June to October.