Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls: history

The falls were formed about 12,000 years ago, as the ice sheets melted at the end of the last ice age. There are three: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the small Bridal Veil Falls.

Niagara Falls State Park opened in 1885 and is the oldest state park in the United States. The Maid of the Mist boats have carried visitors since 1846. In 1896 power from the falls was sent to Buffalo, one of the first long-distance uses of electricity.

Niagara Falls: tourist attractions

• Maid of the MistThe boat ride to the foot of the falls. It runs from about May to early November.
• Cave of the WindsWooden walkways beside Bridal Veil Falls. You will get wet.
• Observation TowerA platform over the gorge at Prospect Point.
• Goat Island & Terrapin PointThe closest view of the Horseshoe Falls from the American side.
• Three Sisters IslandsSmall islands in the rapids above the falls.
• Evening illuminationThe falls lit in colour every night, with fireworks in season.
• Canadian sideThe wide front view of all three falls. You need your passport, and many travellers also need a Canadian visa.

Niagara Falls: excursions nearby

• Whirlpool State Park about 3 milesA view of the whirlpool in the gorge below the falls.
• Old Fort Niagara about 15 milesAn 18th-century fort where the river meets Lake Ontario.
• Niagara wine country about 15 milesVineyards and farm stands along the lake.
• Buffalo about 20 milesFine old architecture and the nearest airport.
• Letchworth State Park about 80 milesA deep gorge with three waterfalls.

Distances are approximate. Tell us which excursions you want and we add them to your quote.