Niagara Falls Part 3- Highlights

Niagara Falls had much to offer beyond the  Maid of the Mist. Other highlights of our trip included:

Journey Behind the Falls– This was about as close as you can get to the thundering falls. On this tour we took an elevator down into the rock near the falls and then walked a tunnel that took us directly behind the falls. There are two different viewing portals where you can see and hear the water pouring down directly in front of you, not more than 15 feet or so away. The Journey Behind the Falls also offers exclusive access to a viewing platform near the base of the falls. This platform provides one of the best photo opportunities, especially if your phone has panorama capabilities.

 

White Water Walk– This is another of the attractions included in the Adventure Pass. It is a boardwalk that takes visitors directly alongside the class 6 Whirlpool Rapids. This is probably the most fierce and fast moving water we have ever seen. The water travels at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour creating 9-12 foot standing waves. Information boards are posted along the walk to highlight the history of daredevils taking on these intense rapids.

 

 

Niagara’s Fury– This is the lone indoor attraction offered on the Adventure Pass. As we entered Niagara’s Fury we were handed ponchos. This seemed curious as we were indoors. The attraction started off with an animated story that told the geological history of the falls. Once that finished we were led into an adjoining room and walked onto a platform. The platform was completely surrounded by a shallow moat. Soon giant screens surrounding us began to play footage from the Niagara River Gorge. Depending on the scene, the platform would shake, there would be wind, and rain would fall from the ceiling above. It was a very interesting experience.

Embassy Suites Fallsview– I think that anyone who visits the Falls should treat themselves to at least one night in a room with a view of the Falls. That is what we did. We spent the first few nights at the Rodeway Inn Fallsview. This is a budget hotel that does the trick if you are looking for minimalist accommodations. The Embassy Suites however, was on a different level. It was nice to experience a lavish room with a view, cocktail hour, and included all you can eat breakfast. At least for one night.

The view from our room

Yank’s Old Niagara Bar and Grill– This place stands out as what a restaurant should be in a tourist area. Amid all the flashing lights of Clifton Hill we found this great spot thanks to Yelp. It is in a nondescript older brick building. Here they have a dish called “Mexican Cheesecake.” It is actually a cheesy, beefy dip for chips. It was really good. They also serve poutine. Poutine is french fries covered with cheese curds and brown gravy. It is very rich. Probably an acquired taste. I’ll stick to the West Coast special, Carne Asada Fries. Yank’s also has great pizza. All in all, it is a great spot to grab some reasonably priced food and get away from the hordes or tourists. Visit Yank’s Restaurant menu here: http://www.yanksniagara.com/

    Above- Mexican Chesecake
Below-Poutine

Dickie’s Steak & Cheezer

Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort– This is one of the nightlife spots for Niagara Falls. The casino and resort exudes a sense of class that is missing from the Clifton Hill neighborhood with all of its chain restaurants and tourist traps. The Fallsview Casino is probably the spot to see and be seen in Niagara Falls. The clientele here is on par with some of Las Vegas’ nicer casinos. Because of that the table minimums are a little high at anywhere between $15-25 depending on the time of the day. Even if you don’t plan on playing, the Fallsview Casino is a nice place to stroll and people watch.

Niagara-on-the-Lake– This is one of the cuter small towns we have visited. It is is basically one main drag with lots of mom and pop type shops selling all types of high end goodies. One of the coolest shops we saw was Greaves’ Jams and Marmalades. They sell the most delicious jams. Only thing that could make their store better would be if they offered samples. Niagara-on-the-Lake also has a beautiful waterfront that offers endless vistas. We were even able to see all the way to Toronto the day we were there.

  

Niagara Falls changes greatly with the seasons. We will probably not have the opportunity to see it in all of its glory in the other seasons. Late summer in Niagara is spectacular. The crowds have begun to thin and the weather is still pleasant, albeit unpredictable. If Niagara Falls is on your bucket list it may be time to start game planning your trip for next summer.