By Staff
waterhead.com
October 12, 2011

If there is one popular location, which happens to be shared by Canada and the United States, it is Niagra Falls. This is especially true of waterheads, who are people of all ages that love being close to or in water. What better place to enjoy Mother Nature in her glory than at Niagra Falls! Located on the Niagara River, it is a name given for three falls, the American Falls, the Horseshoe Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls. The cascading waters flow into the Lake Ontario and drain from Lake Erie, and in combination, they have the biggest flow rate of any falls around the world, with a drop of over 50 meters or about 170 feet.

Goat Island separates the the Canadian Horseshoe Falls and the American Falls, which are obviously located in the United States. Waterheads can enjoy the panoramic view of Niagra Falls from either country and take pleasure in seeing over six million cubic feet of water falling each minute. It is a breathtaking sight not to be missed by anyone, especially waterheads.

Although Niagra Falls may not be the tallest of falls in the world, it certainly takes first place in being the widest and having the highest rate flow. This rate flow peaks in late spring and early summer because it relies on the water elevation of Lake Erie. Most waterheads would note that the water of Nigara Falls is green in color, a direct result of dissolved salts and finely ground rock due to the forces of the water, which causes erosion. In fact, experts estimate that the falls that exist today are 10,000 years old and a result of the Wisconsin glaciation, but in the very distant future, they will cease to exist. According to geologists' calculations, the Niagra Falls has retreated almost 7 miles to the south over the course of approximately 11,000 years.

The spectacular views of the Niagra Falls has drawn millions of tourists to the location over the years, some of them waterheads, others just interested in seeing one of the most popular places in the world. From as far back as the earliest explorers of North America, people have written about Niagra Falls, such as Champlain did in his journals.

Both sides of the falls can be visited by tourists by international bridges, the Rainbow Bridge and the Whirlpool Rapids Bridge. Tourists can take in all the Niagra Falls attractions by any means of transport, arriving by plane to nearby airports, bus, train, or car, and enjoy the scenery both in the daytime and at night. To make the experience an unforgettable one, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist cruise boat that takes passengers just below the falls and into the rapids. Tourists from Canada or the United States can enjoy these cruises as boat docks exists on either side.

From the American side, people can enjoy the views from walkways. They may also enjoy the observation tower at Prospect Point Park. Walking or driving to Goat Island can give interested tourists even more incredible views. There, people can take in the Cave of the Winds attraction, which can be accessed by elevator. The Niagra Falls State Park also boasts the river of the same name, the gorge and views of the rapids and the falls.

You can also enjoy guided tours of Goat Island and the American Falls by trolley. A helium balloon ride or helicopter tour can enable tourists to get aerial views of the entire area. The Niagara Gorge Discovery Center will provide anyone with all historical information of the popular destination. For those who love to gamble, there is a casino located nearby on the American side, as well as a luxury hotel.

On the Canadian side, people can enjoy numerous attractions, like the underground walkways. This is an interesting and beautiful addition which brings tourists to observation rooms, as though they are in the falls. The Skylon Tower provides a great view of the falls from the highest point. People can also enjoy similar views from the Tower Hotel. On the ground, tourists can take in the beautiful gardens featured in Queen Victoria Park and they can get stunning views of all the falls. For a bit of history, take in sites from the War of 1812, which lie between Forts Erie and George.

A ride on the cable car, known as the Whirlpool Aero Car can take you over the Niagara Whirlpool, or taking the elevators to the Journey behind the Falls will bring you down to the bottom of the falls through tunnels. Nearby, people can enjoy playing their luck at the two casinos, Casino Niagara or Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort. Tourists can also take their pick of overnight accommodations from inexpensive motels to luxury hotels located close by the major tourist attractions.

Whatever your whimsy, you will be able to find numerous activities and sites, whether you are single and looking for evening entertainment, or a family with children of all ages. From casinos, fine dining and exciting nightlife to Marineland, theme parks and water parks, there is something for everyone. Most of the attractions can be enjoyed year round, whether it is cold and snowing or hot and sunny. Even the indoor water parks are open in wintertime, so waterheads of all ages can take part in hours of fun any month of the year.

Take the time to research the falls, either on the Canadian or American side to benefit from a great vacation that is filled with fun and cultural things to do. In addition to the above, there are always special attractions and events that will add even more memories to visitors, should they visit during the particular festivities. If planning a romantic trip, then Niagra Falls is the place for water enthusiasts who love extraordinary views. If you are planning a family vacation, there are lots of packages to make your trip fun-filled and a thrill for each member, that will not soon be forgotten.