The collective name for the three waterfalls which are found along the border between the United States and Canada is Niagara Falls and they form the southern tip of the Niagara Gorge. The three falls from smallest to largest are the Bridal Veil Falls, the American Falls and the Horseshoe Falls.
The largest and most famous Horseshoe Falls are found mainly on the Canadian side, while the American Falls are completely on the American Side, separated by Goat Island. Bridal Veil Falls are located on the American side as well, and the international boundary line was first drawn through the Horseshoe Falls in 1819. The boundary has, however, be long disputed because of natural erosion and construction.
The falls combined have the highest rate of flow of any waterfall around the world, and a vertical drop of over 165 feet. The most powerful waterfall in North America is the Horseshoe Falls, and they are located 17 miles north-northwest of Buffalo, New York and 75 miles south-southeast from Toronto.
Why you need to visit Niagara Falls
A natural wonder, The Falls, and the areas surrounding them, are an overwhelmingly beautiful masterpiece for visitors to see. There are scenic tours which can bring you up close to The Falls themselves, which is an attraction that vacationers do not want to miss out on.
The beauty of nature
There are not many places which bring you the awesome power of Mother Nature quite like Niagara Falls can. Every single minute of every single day, 189,600 tons of water flows over The Falls. This has made it a huge energy source for both Canada and America for over half a century. Niagara Falls makes more electricity in New York State than any other source. Plus, its clean hydroelectricity and it’s environmentally friendly.
A plethora of attractions
The city itself also now has plenty of attractions to enjoy and visit. You can start out by enjoying your stay at the Fallsview hotel, which will give you a spectacular view of the falls from your room. Adults can enjoy attractions such as the concerts and nightlife, gambling in the casinos, the fine dining experience, playing golf, relaxing in spas and tasting fine wine. There are attractions for children as well, including the water parks, theme parks, restaurants that are child-friendly, and the education available on the Niagara Falls.
Ultimate romantic destination
Of course, the three waterfalls which make up Niagara Falls have been favourite destinations for marriage proposals and also for weddings over the last century and it is also a very popular location to spend honeymoons and anniversaries. After your visit here, you can also continue on to Toronto for some fun in a big city, as it’s just over the bridge.
Conservation site
Plant life and wildlife both really thrive in the Niagara River Corridor. With fourteen different species of rare plants living here, plus six hundred flora species and 140 out of 170 of New York’s native trees, Niagara is a location that definitely belongs more to nature than it does to man. This is emphasized by the amounts of animals who make residence here, which includes thousands of species of waterfowl, plus some protected fish and birds which includes the American bald Eagle and the endangered lake Sturgeon of New York.
There is a never ending supply of things to do in the Niagara Falls area, and the beauty of these awesome waterfalls is something that you do not want to miss seeing in your lifetime. No photographs can do this natural beauty justice – you just have to see it for yourself!
