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Niagara Falls: American vs. Canadian Side
Attractions covering the Niagara Region
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Ontario, Canada

Battle Ground Hotel Museum - The Battle Ground Hotel is located Battle Ground Hotel Museumat 6151 Lundy's Lane in the heart of Historic Drummondville, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. The Battle Ground Hotel Museum sits on a part of the remaining untouched lands of the Lundy's Lane Battlefield. Visitors to the site are offered a guided tour of the period rooms where they will experience tavern life in 1850.

Bird KingdomBird Kingdom - Home to over 400 free-flying birds as well as many creatures of all sorts, this spectacular indoor aviary offers visitors a slice of the tropics. Guided tours, educational programs, and shows are offered. 

Butterfly Conservatory - This magical attraction features over 2,000 Butterfly Conservatorycolorful tropical butterflies floating freely among lush, exotic blossoms and greenery. Paths wind through the rainforest setting, past a pond, waterfall and the Emergence Window, where butterflies leave their pupae and prepare to take their first flight.

Casino NiagaraCasino Niagara - Featuring 1,700 slot and video poker machines, 70 tables of gaming excitement, three restaurants, three bars and live music performances.
 

Clifton Hill - Niagara Falls hotels, attractions, restaurants, casinos and more await you at Clifton Hill. Located one Clifton Hillblock to the Falls, Clifton Hill is the heart of the tourism industry for Niagara Falls, ON. You find variety of attractions along this busy part of town, from a jungle-themed restaurant to a Hollywood wax museum.

Fallsview Casino Resort - The single largest provincial investment ever made in the Niagara region and is currently the largest Fallsview Casino Resortcommercial development in Canada. The 2.5 million square foot complex includes more than 3,000 slot machines and 150 gaming tables, a 368-room five-star hotel, fine-dining restaurants, a health spa, shopping mall, a 1,500-seat theatre, and more.

Floral Showhouse - Surrounded by summer gardens, this world-Floral Showhouseclass greenery features orchids, succulents and other tropical plants throughout the year, along with floral shows that reflect the changing seasons. Flying throughout the greenery are colorful tropical birds. A must-see for the flower lover.

Imax Theater and Daredevil Gallery - On its detailed IMAX screen and 12,000 watt digital sound system: The Niagara Falls Movie: Imax Niagara“Niagara: Miracles, Myths and Magic.” is a regular. A new film, centering on daredevils, is also shown daily. While there check out the Daredevil Gallery, featuring photos and various artifacts of the famed Niagara daredevils.

Journey Behind the Falls - Elevators descend 150 Journey Behind the Fallsfeet through the bedrock of Table Rock to tunnels that lead to the Cataract Portal and the Great Falls Portal, which is one third of the way behind the massive sheet of water. The upper and lower observation decks get you too the foot of the Horseshoe Falls.

Laura Secord Homestead - During the war of 1812, a brave woman set out on a perilous journey in the service of her country, and Laura Secord Homesteadstepped forever into the history and folklore of Niagara. Travel back in time to her lovingly restored homestead and be enchanted by stories of her adventures and surroundings as interpreted by authentically costumed guides.

Lundys LaneLundy's Lane - This popular tourist district offers everything from value motel accommodations, to resorts with indoor water parks. Dining options include various fast food and even themed dinner shows. Gift shops aplenty.

Lundy's Lane Historical Society Museum - The Museum’s collection includes a significant collection of War of 1812 artifacts, as well as Lundys Lane Historical Museumhistoric prints of Niagara Falls. The Museum also has a world class collection of Niagara Falls Souvenir China and Postcards. As the interpreters of the City’s history, the Museum houses a variety of artifacts relating to all aspects of the founding and development of the City of Niagara Falls.

Maid of the Mist - The Maid of the Mist boats start off at a calm part Maid of the Mistof the Niagara River, near the Rainbow Bridge, and takes passengers past the American and Bridal Veil Falls, then into the dense mist inside the curve of the Horseshoe Falls. The tour is available starting from either the Canadian or U.S. side of the river, returning to the starting point in each case.

MarineLand - One of the most popular attraction in the area, this hybrid MarineLandzoo and thrill ride amusement park offers multiple marine mammal demonstrations, aquatic and terrestrial animal exhibits, thrill rides, and concessions. Their resident Arctic Beluga Whales are a popular attraction while the looping steel Dragon Mountain Coaster is a classic thrill for ride enthusiasts.

National HelicoptersNational Helicopters - Although either side of the border features helicopter tours, National Helicopters is the best. They offer a wide variety of tours and the ability to customize your own. The Niagara Grand Tour is highly recommended.

Niagara-on-the-Lake - A visit to the quaint town of Niagara-on-Niagara-on-the-Lakethe-Lake is like a trip back in time. Historical plaques denoting landmarks and notable events from the War of 1812 spot the area.  Classy shops, hotels, and wineries are aplenty. Although the town is a common stop for tourists, you can barely tell. 

Sir Adam BeckSir Adam Beck - The Sir Adam Beck power generating stations harness the power of the Niagara River, generating power for the majority of the region. The station offers a fully guided tour and gift shop.

SKylon TowerSkylon Tower - Towering 520 feet over street level and 950 feet above the falls, the iconic Skylon Tower features a mall, observation deck, 2 restaurants (one of which rotates), and scenic "yellow bug" elevators that climb the exterior. This is the premier viewing spot for the falls.

Whirlpool Aero Car - High above the racing Niagara River, you'll Whirlpool Aero Carbe transported through the air in an antique cable car. Far below, the torrent of water abruptly changes direction and creates one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural phenomenon – the Niagara Whirlpool.

Whirlpool Jet Boat ToursWhirlpool Jet Boat Tours - These high-powered boats will run crowds of tourists up the Niagara River, through Devil's Hole to the Whirlpool. The Wet Jet departs daily from both Niagara-on-the-Lake as well as Lewiston NY. You will get wet.

White Water Walk - Stroll along a boardwalk at the very edge of one White Water Walkof the world's wildest stretches of whitewater! Marvel at the relentless power and beauty of nature and see how the deep and narrow Great Gorge was created. The attraction also features a photo gallery of past Rapids daredevils.

  New York, USA

Adventure TheaterAdventure Theater - Located on the lower level of the Niagara Falls State Park Visitor Center, the recently upgraded Adventure Theater features continuous showing of Niagara: Legends of Adventure.


Aquarium of Niagara - More than 1,500 aquatic animals are on Niagara Falls Aquariumdisplay, representing ecosystems ranging from the Great Lakes to coral reefs. Every 90 minutes you can watch sea lions perform and penguin and shark feeds happen regularly. Other crowd favorites include the piranha, seal and eel exhibits.

Cave of the Winds - Your journey begins with an elevator ride 175 Cave of the windsfeet into the Niagara Gorge. Then, clad in a souvenir rain poncho and sandals, you’ll follow a tour guide over wooden walkways to the Hurricane Deck, less than 20 feet from the torrents of Bridal Veil Falls.

Discovery Center - Showcasing the natural and local history of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area, the Niagara Gorge Discovery Discover CenterCenter is a hands-on learning experience for all ages. In this amazing Niagara Falls tour, you can enjoy interactive displays, take a virtual elevator trip into the gorge, experience 12,000 years of the Niagara River in the 180° multi-screen theater, or climb a 26-foot rock wall that resembles the walls of the gorge, complete with fossils and geological formations.

Flight of AngelsThe Flight of Angels Balloon Ride - Get a bird's-eye view of the Falls and cascade rapids from 400 feet above the streets of Niagara Falls, NY in this 73 ft diameter helium balloon.

 

Maid of the MistMaid of the Mist - The Maid of the Mist boats start off at a calm part of the Niagara River, near the Rainbow Bridge, and takes passengers past the American and Bridal Veil Falls, then into the dense mist inside the curve of the Horseshoe Falls. The tour is available starting from either the Canadian or U.S. side of the river, returning to the starting point in each case.

Native American Museum of Art - Native American Museum of Art’s vision is to build a world class museum that brings to life Native The Native American Museum of Art American art and culture, particularly Iroquois and Tuscarora. NAMA is dedicated to strengthen, preserve and revitalize Native American culture. Native American Museum of Art (NAMA) has two locations in Niagara Falls, NY and Tuscarora Indian Reservation, 10 minutes away from the Falls.

Niagara Aerospace MuseumNiagara Aerospace Museum - The Niagara Aerospace Museum is a great place to learn about our rich Western New York aviation history. From the earliest forms of flight to the most current aerospace innovations, come see what this area has produced.

Niagara River Tours - Starting out in Lewiston, NY, this 17 mile personal boat tour will show you the highlights Niagara River, from Devil's Hole to Lake Ontario.

Niagara Scenic Trolley - Explore Niagara Falls State Park in the Niagara Scenic Trolleycomfort of the Niagara Falls Scenic Trolley. Enjoy an overview of the park in half an hour as a knowledgeable guide shares the history of the park with you along the three-mile route, or get off at each of the six stops and explore the Niagara Falls attractions.

Prospect Point Park Observation Tower - The most comprehensive Prospect Point Park Observation Towerand impressive views of the American Falls can be seen from the deck of the park’s Observation Tower. Extending out over the Niagara Gorge, the Tower allows you to look directly out into the cascading waters or down into the raging torrents below.

Robert Moses Hydro Electric Generating Station - Taking Rt 104 Robert Moses Plantnorth from Niagara Falls will bring you right over the Robert Moses power plant, and past its massive reservoir. The plant has 13 turbines, generating 2,275,000 Kilowatts of electricity. Niagara Power Project Power Vista offers excellent views of the nearby dams as well as tours and educational exhibits.

Seneca Niagara Casino - A massive casino and the only one on the Seneca Niagara CasinoAmerican side, Seneca-Niagara offers plenty of slots and table games as well as shops, restaurants and world-class shows. The Casino floor has an area of 112,590 square feet with an impressive 4,222 slot machines.

Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima - The magnificence and natural beauty of Basilica of The National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatimathe Shrine is highlighted by an awe-inspiring Dome Basilica covered with two layers of glass and Plexiglas, with a contour of the Northern Hemisphere of the globe. The Shrine is surrounded by beautifully-groomed grounds and "Rosary Pool."

Visitor Center - In addition to maps and information, the Visitor Visitor Center'Center houses the Adventure Theater, a gift shop and a variety of Niagara Falls restaurants, including specialty coffees, ice cream, a patio grill and a deli snack bar. Of particular interest is the Niagara Falls historical timeline and geological charts.

Whirlpool Jet Boat ToursWhirlpool Jet Boat Tours - These high-powered boats will run crowds of tourists up the Niagara River, through Devil's Hole to the Whirlpool. The Wet Jet departs daily from both Niagara-on-the-Lake as well as Lewiston NY. You will get wet.

 

     
Parks (Canada)

Botanical Gardens - Niagara Parks' Botanical Gardens is located on Niagara Parks Botanical Gardensthe scenic Niagara Parkway and the Great Gorge, just a 10 minute drive north of the Falls. This 99 acre garden setting is home to the Butterfly Conservatory and serves as the unique outdoor classroom for students attending the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture.

Dufferin Islands Nature AreaDufferin Islands Nature Area - This popular area is 10 acres of paradise - a quiet, secluded park containing several small islands connected by small bridges and footpaths. Located minutes upstream from the Falls.

Floral Clock - This unique attraction is a very popular stop on the Floral ClockNiagara Parkway and is photographed almost as often as the Falls. The floral clock is a fully-functioning time piece, crafted out of colorful flowering plants and surrounded by an aquatic garden.  The Clock is enclosed by a well-groomed garden park with hundreds of lilac bushes on display.

Fort Erie - Fort Erie, the local site of the War of 1812, is one of the most significant historic landmarks in the area. Fort Erie saw Fort Erie considerable action in the War of 1812. The fort plays an integral role in presenting Canada's history to visitors from around the world in its capacity as a museum, living history site and memorial park.

Fort George National Historic Park - Fort George and Niagara-on-Fort George National Historic Site of Canadathe-Lake became major battlefields when the United States declared war in 1812. Fort George’s garrison defeated an American invasion and fought artillery duels with Fort Niagara in 1812.

Niagara Glen - The Niagara Glen is a unique spot of beauty deep in Niagara Glenthe Great Gorge that has been a designated Nature Reserve since 1992. Stairways lead to 4 km (2.5 mi) of paths that wind through a pristine pocket of Carolinian Forest, past boulders left behind as the Falls eroded through the area thousands of years ago.

Queen Victoria Park - Queen Victoria Park is literally the "heart" of Queen Victoria ParkNiagara Parks and arguably the prime viewing location for the Falls. Bounded by the steep Fallsview moraine and the Niagara River Great Gorge, the Park contains a valuable collection of unique native and international plants and beautifully maintained gardens. Featuring the spectacular Oakes Garden Theatre near Clifton Hill.

Queenston Heights Park - The site of one of the bloodiest battles in the War of 1812 is now one of the most beautiful parks in the Queenston Heights ParkNiagara Region. Nearly 7 miles north of the Falls, Queenston Heights offers visitors a relaxing day away from the touristy attractions in the south. The park features several playing fields, picnic areas, a children's wading pool and a restaurant.

 

Parks (USA)

Beaver Island State Park - Beaver Island State Park is located in Erie Beaver Island State ParkCounty, New York in the town of Grand Island. The park is on the bank of the Niagara River, at the southern end of Grand Island. The park offers a beach with swimming area, picnic tables with pavilions, golf, recreation programs, a nature trail, seasonal waterfowl hunting, fishing and ice-fishing, sledding, cross-country skiing, cross country running, snowshoeing, sledding and snowmobiling, a boat launch with marina and dockage, and a food concession.

Big Six Mile Creek Marina - Big Six Mile Creek Marina is a New York state park. It is located on the Niagara River on Grand Island in Erie County. The park offers a marina, boat launch sites, and fishing.

Buckhorn Island State Park - Buckhorn Island State Park is located in Buckhorn Island State ParkErie County, New York in the Town of Grand Island. The park is on the northern end of the island of Grand Island. It is primarily an exhibit of Niagara River wetlands. The park offers biking, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, and a nature trail.

De Veaux Woods State Park - De Veaux Woods State Park is a state park located in Niagara County, New York, USA. De Veaux Woods is located off the Robert Moses State Parkway, north of the City of Niagara Falls. It is adjacent to the Whirlpool State Park.

Devil's Hole State Park - Devil's Hole State Park overlooks the lower Devil's Hole State ParkWhirlpool rapids. A wildly beautiful walkway leads down from the park along the turbulent Niagara River 300 feet into the wooded gorge and offers an up-close, spectacular view of the gorge's rapids. Devil's Hole has picnic areas, hiking, and nature trails. It is one of the most popular spots for fishermen.

Earl W. Brydges Artpark State Park - Earl W. Brydges Artpark is Brydges Artparkdedicated to presenting the finest in performing and visual arts programs, including Broadway musicals and classical, jazz and pop music concerts; art exhibits; classes, workshops and demonstrations, and tours of the park's geological and historic sites and nature trails. The park has picnic facilities, hiking and cross-country skiing, and access to fishing.

Fort Niagara State Park & Historic Site - Fort Niagara State Park Fort Niagaraoffers boat launches, playing fields and picnic areas. The Historic site preserves Fort Niagara, a fortification originally built to protect the interests of New France in North America. Controlled by the US since it's independence, it was captured briefly by the British in the War of 1812.

Four Mile Creek State Park - This popular camping park is located just 15 minutes north of Niagara Falls. Four Mile Creek State ParkThe 275 campsites are located near the shores of Lake Ontario and offer spectacular panoramic views. The park has hiking trails for campers along the densely wooded bluffs. The marsh at the mouth of Four Mile Creek is an excellent bird-watching location.

Joseph Davis State Park - Joseph Davis State Park has facilities for a Joseph Davis State Parkwide variety of recreational activities. The terrain is generally flat, with fields, woodlands and ponds. Anglers can fish for largemouth bass in the pond near the park entrance or for a variety of freshwater fish from the fishing dock on the lower Niagara River. The park also has a nature trail, as well as cross-country skiing/snowshoeing and snowmobiling trails and an 27-hole Frisbee disc golf course. 

Niagara Reservation State Park - Niagara Reservation State Park, Niagara Reservation State Parkwhich surrounds mighty Niagara Falls, is the oldest state park in the United States. The park is made up of numerous islands, as well as the famous Prospect Point area. The park includes the Scenic Trolley, Observation Tower, Discovery Center, Visitor's Center, Adventure Theater, Great Lakes Garden, and Cave of the Winds.

Reservoir State ParkReservoir State Park - Reservoir State Park, Town of Niagara Route 31, is a favorite of locals in Niagara County. The park features playing fields and picnic facilities. Part of the park is an overlook for the Robert Moses Plant Reservoir. Excellent fishing available in the Reservoir.

Whirlpool State Park - Whirlpool State Park has two levels-the Whirlpool State Parkupper, or street level has many overlooks with spectacular views of the swirling waters of the rapids, the whirlpool and the Niagara River Escarpment. Visitors picnic and children use the playground at this level. The lower, or river level is accessible by walking the 300 feet of trails and steps that descend into the gorge. This level has several nature trails and access for fishing.

 

     
Hiking (Canada)

Niagara River Recreation Trail - Winding along the entire length of the Niagara River, this massive trail can be used by motorist (along the Niagara Parkway), cyclists or pedestrians.

Niagara Glen Trail - The Glen Trail drops 200 feet down the Niagara Gorge near the Whirlpool bend. It offers an excellent opportunity to view the natural history of the Falls.

Brocks Tour - An excellent opportunity to cross the Niagara Escarpment.

 

Hiking (USA)

Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Hike - Begins at the Trailhead Building (Discovery Center) and is an easy one-hour hike. Age Requirement: None

Upper Great Gorge Hike - Begins at the Trailhead Building (Discovery Center) and follows the Great Gorge Railway Trail for an easy two-hour hike. Age Requirement: None

Devil's Hole Rapids and Giant Rock - Begins at Devil's Hole State Park and is a moderate level 2.5-hour hike. Age Requirement: Ages 8 and over only.

Whirlpool Rapids Adventure Hike - Begins at Whirlpool State Park and is a difficult three-hour hike, including some boulder hopping. Age Requirement: Ages 8 and over only

     
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