When it comes to waterfalls, few can match the majesty and power behind Niagara. A major tourist attraction that straddles the US and Canadian border, over 12 million people make their way to see the three collective falls that make up Niagara Falls along the Niagara River every summer. While you can see American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Horsehoe Falls without leaving the country in upstate New York, it’s the tours in the Canadian providence of Ontario that really steal the show.
Here’s why we think Niagara’s even better across the border:
The helicopter tours are on point
Niagara Helicopters Ltd. has perfected the helicopter tour over Niagara Falls, mainly because you’re getting a view from all angles. The standard tour loops over Queen Victoria Park, American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls from the American side before you fly over the falls in Ontario. To get the best photos, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is still casting a hazy glow and the chance to see a million dancing rainbows reflecting off the water is at it’s highest.
There’s more than one way to see the falls
Hike behind it, admire it from afar, or gaze at it from above; when it comes to seeing the cascading waters, the City of Niagara Falls in Ontario really does know how to do it best. For the adventurous families who want to get up close and personal and don’t mind the idea of wearing a poncho, the Journey Behind the Falls will put everyone in the splash zone, especially during the warmer months. If you’d prefer to stay dry, there are underground walkways leading into observation rooms that yield the illusion of being within the falls. You can also ride the Whirlpool Aero Cable Car over the Falls for a bird’s eye view. Couples, meanwhile, will love a romantic date to Skylon Tower’s Revolving Dining Room just before sunset (around 5:30 in winter and 9 in summer) when Niagara seems to explode with color. While the unique restaurant makes a full 360 spin every hour, diners won’t feel the movement — they’ll be too distracted by the view.
You can add to your passport stamp collection
It wasn’t too long ago when you only needed a driver’s license to cross the border and depending which generation you ask —a birth certificate. As of 2009, crossing into Canada requires a passport, but what traveler doesn’t love the opportunity to add a stamp to his or her collection? We think Niagara Falls is a perfect excuse to add yet another badge of glory, don’t you?