Niagara Fall is a group of three waterfalls located on the Niagara River in northeastern North America, on the other border between the United States and Canada. The falls are a major tourist attraction and have been a popular destination for travelers since the 19th century.
The name “Niagara” is derived from the Iroquois word “Onguiaahra,” meaning “the strait.” The falls themselves were formed approximately 10,000 years ago towards the last ice age, when glaciers receded and the Niagara River was formed.
The 3 waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls are the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are on the American side of the border, while Horseshoe Falls is on the Canadian side.
Horseshoe Falls is completely the largest of the three, with a height of 188 feet and a width of 2,200 feet.
In the 19th century, Niagara Falls became a popular destination for honeymooners, who were drawn to the romantic scenery of the falls. The area around the falls was developed into a tourist destination, with hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
During the 20th century, Niagara Falls became a major source of hydroelectric power, with several power plants built in the area. The falls were also harnessed for power, with a large amount of water diverted for hydroelectric generation.
Today, Niagara Falls remains a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. The area around the falls has been developed into a modern tourist destination, with hotels, restaurants, casinos, and other attractions. Despite its development, the natural beauty of Niagara Falls continues to inspire awe and wonder in visitors from around the world.
Popular activities to do at Niagara Falls
- Visit the American and Horseshoe Falls – Both falls are part of Niagara Falls and offer stunning views of the powerful waterfall.
- Take a Maid of the Mist boat excursion – This boat tour takes visitors on a journey to the bottom of the Horseshoe Falls, imparting a completely unique attitude to the falls from beneath.
- Walk along the Cave of the Winds – This experience takes visitors on a tour through a series of wooden walkways and observation decks that lead to the base of the American Falls.
- Explore the Niagara Falls State Park – This kingdom park is the oldest kingdom park within the United States and gives a selection of outside sports and points of interest, inclusive of scenic walks and picnicking regions.
- Visit the Aquarium of Niagara – This aquarium features over 2,200 marine animals, including various species of fish, sea turtles, and sea lions.
- Take a helicopter tour – Helicopter tours offer visitors a unique and thrilling view of Niagara Falls from above.
- Watch the Niagara Falls Illumination – Every night, Niagara Falls are illuminated in various colors, creating a breathtaking display.
- Visit the Niagara Falls Discovery Center – This museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and displays that highlight the history and science of Niagara Falls.
- Explore the Whirlpool State Park – This park features a large whirlpool that is formed by the Niagara River as it flows over the Niagara Escarpment.
- Try local wineries and vineyards – Niagara Falls is located in the heart of Niagara Wine Country, offering visitors the opportunity to sample and purchase local wines.
- Take a scenic force along the Niagara River – This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the Niagara River, Niagara Falls, and the surrounding countryside.
- Visit the Old Fort Niagara – This historic fort was built in the 1700s and offers a glimpse into the history of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area.
- Explore the Niagara Falls Botanical Gardens – This garden features a variety of floral displays, as well as a number of walking paths and picnic areas.
- Visit the Niagara Power Project Visitors Center – This center offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history and science of hydroelectric power generation at Niagara Falls.
- Try the local cuisine and restaurants – Niagara Falls is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, offering visitors the opportunity to try local cuisine.
- Visit the Niagara Falls History Museum – This museum features exhibits and displays that highlight the history of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area.
- Take a sunset boat tour – Sunset boat tours offer visitors the opportunity to see Niagara Falls as the sun sets, creating a magical display of light and color.
- Visit the Artpark State Park – This park features a variety of outdoor performing arts events, including concerts and theater performances.
- Explore the Niagara Gorge Trail System – This trail system offers a number of hiking paths that lead to Niagara Falls and other attractions in the Niagara Gorge.
- Visit the Fort Erie Friendship Festival – This festival celebrates the friendship between the United States and Canada and features a variety of cultural events and activities.
- Take a scenic railway tour – Scenic railway tours offer visitors the opportunity to experience Niagara Falls and the surrounding area from the comfort of a train.
- Visit the Terrapin Point at Goat Island – This viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Horseshoe Falls and the Niagara River.
- Explore the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve.
Here are 10 places that are similar to Niagara Falls and their locations
- Iguazu Falls – Iguazu National Park, Argentina, and Brazil
- Victoria Falls – Zambia and Zimbabwe
- Angel Falls – Canaima National Park, Venezuela
- Gullfoss – Golden Circle, Iceland
- Plitvice Lakes National Park – Croatia
- Banff National Park – Alberta, Canada
- Havasu Falls – Grand Canyon, Arizona, United States
- Table Mountain – Cape Town, South Africa
- Yosemite National Park – California, United States
- Bryce Canyon National Park – Utah, United States
