Online Niagara

IMAX Theatre

admin — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 15:40:39 +0000

When you go to Niagara Falls, your visit there wouldn’t be complete without visiting the IMAX Theatre Niagara Falls, Canada. This theatre is the home of one of the most magnificent IMAX movie of all time which is “The Falls Movie: Legends and Daredevils”. This movie lets you travel back to the time when native people worshipped thunder spirits and other spirits of nature. The movie will also let you meet daredevils and legends who challenged and survived Niagara Falls. Some of these people are the Great Blondin who completed a tightrope walk over the Falls, 63-year old Annie Taylor who went over the Falls in a barrel and 7-year old Roger Woodward who survived the Falls with only a lifejacket.

The film is also available in 6 different languages through complimentary headsets and is available for the French, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin and Spanish languages while dedicated French and Japanese shows are available daily.

The IMAX Theatre is composed of a 620-seat auditorium, 60-feet high screen image that is 4500 times larger than a regular TV screen and 12,000 Watts of Digital Surround Sound by Sonics Proportional Point Source™ loudspeaker system that uses 44 laser-focused speaker drivers. The Theatre can be found at Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls and is located next to the Skylon Tower and Niagara Fallsview Casino.

For schedules, the film “Niagara: Legends and Daredevils” is shown every hour on the hour with French and Japanese dedicated shows available only by request during winter. As of 2009, admission prices vary for walk up rates, online rates, and group rates. Walk up rates are $14.75 for Adults (13+) and $10.62 for Children (4-12). Online rates are given 25% off the regular price plus taxes so they are only $11 for Adults and $8 for Children. For groups of more than 20 people, rates are$8.60 for Adults and $5.45 for Children.

Similar Posts:

Niagara Duty Free

admin — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:36:10 +0000

Niagara Falls Duty Free Shopping

The Niagara Falls Area is home to three international bridges between Canada and the United States, where approximately 12 million vehicle crossings take place every year. It’s not surprising that duty-free shopping is so popular. Here’s how to make the most of your duty-free dollar.

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), signed in the 1990s, was expected to decrease the number and variety of items for sale at duty free outlets, but this has not come about. Substantial savings on liquor, wines and beer, tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars and pipe tobacco, jewelry, fine chocolate, perfumes and many other items are on sale at the duty-free outlets at the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge, the Rainbow Bridge, and the Peace Bridge. Most liquors still sell at duty free shops for 30 to 50% off their Canadian retail price. Perfumes are available at 30 to 60 per cent off the retail list price.

To make your duty-free shopping even more affordable, the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission has also just lowered the Canadian toll rate on the bridges to $3.75 from $4.00. Frequent travellers in the Niagara Region who cross into the USA can benefit from a lower-cost ExpressPass rate. Each crossing is now $3.20.

At the Rainbow Bridge, visit Niagara Duty Free Shop at 5726 Niagara Falls Blvd. The Queenston-Lewiston Duty Free Shop is on Highway 405 adjacent to the bridge, and the Peace Bridge Duty Free Shop is just off Central Avenue. You can rest assured you are purchasing duty-free liquors, tobacco, perfumes and other specialty goods from sellers authorized by both the Canadian and United States Governments. The Duty Free outlets also offer restrooms and refreshments, and currency exchange.

Be aware of your entitlements to duty-free goods. You must be out of your home country (Canada or USA) for 48 full hours before you may bring home any goods duty free.

Similar Posts:

Niagara Falls Wedding

admin — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:34:00 +0000

Getting Married in Niagara Falls

No longer content to be just the “Honeymoon Capital of the World,” many Niagara Falls hotels and private companies now offer the whole wedding experience to brides and grooms. All major hotels in the Niagara Falls area can arrange your wedding, reception and honeymoon accommodation at a package rate.

Festivities

In Niagara Falls, you can arrange through the Niagara Wedding Company to marry aboard the “Maid of the Mist”; at the Botanical Gardens or Oakes Garden Theatre; or you can relax at a beach wedding on the north shore of Lake Erie.

The Peninsula Inn and Spa has a White Wedding Chapel on its grounds. The dainty, New England-style church holds a wedding party and up to 40 guests. The bride and groom can enter and leave the church by crossing over the Kissing Bridge.

Choose a historic-themed Medieval wedding with Medieval Buffet at The Buttery, a Niagara-on-the-Lake restaurant built in 1812.

Legalities

Attend carefully to the legalities of getting married. Marriage licenses must be obtained in person at the Municipal Clerk’s Office, City Hall, at 4310 Queen Street. A fee of $100 is payable in Canadian dollars (cash), and the office is open from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

The Province of Ontario does not require premarital blood tests or residency in the province to issue a marriage license. Bring proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, driver’s license or passport to obtain your marriage license.

Both bride and groom must be at least 18 years old to wed. People aged 16 or 17 need written consent from their legal guardians to marry. Previously married people need to show an original or notarized copy of their final decree to get a marriage license.

A Justice of the Peace, a judge, or any minister or clergy member registered by the Marriage Act may legally perform a marriage ceremony. If applicable, check that your chosen minister is authorized to perform same-sex marriages, which are legal throughout Canada.

Similar Posts:

Fallsview Waterpark

admin — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:00:00 +0000

While you’re in Niagara Falls look up to catch a glimpse of high-speed water-slides and the all-season, outdoor pool at one of the region’s newest attraction. Niagara Falls is now home to the new Fallsview Indoor Waterpark.

Towering thirteen stories above Niagara Falls, Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is North Americas largest Hotel and Waterpark complex. It’s a comprehensive family oriented resort facility on Falls Avenue right next to Niagara Falls, with indoor connections between great hotels, family friendly attractions and great theme restaurants. There’s lots of fun for everyone!

While the kids will definitely be thrilled, we’ve noticed that the grown-ups are too. With hot tubs to soak in, comfortable lounge chairs and great food at the Planet Hollywood Beach Bar, this Niagara attraction makes you feel like you really have escaped. You probably won’t rest all the time – you’ll be tempted to join the kid’s at the giant aqua play area that features a 1000 gallon tipping bucket – blast the kids with water cannons but be prepared to get drenched yourself. With air and water temperature kept at summer levels throughout the year, you’ll be content.

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark offers families safe, exiting water-fun all year round. The entire waterpark floor has been covered with a unique poured in place safety floor system creating the largest installation of its kind. The kid’s won’t slip and fall on this! and you can relax knowing that wherever they are in the park, you’ll be able to see them. Yes, the park is immense but the sight lines are terrific so that you can relax while the kid’s play.

And play they will! The full sized wavepool is tremendously popular – its amazing how long they’ll bob and splash. Of course, everyone enjoys the sixteen water-slides – up to six stories high and for the smallest children, there’s the popular Tiny Tots Splash Park.

Enjoy direct connections from the Skyline Inn, The Sheraton on the Falls or The Brock Plaza Hotel or stay, just across the street, at the Hampton Inn. Your family can enjoy water fun and great accommodations, right next to the Falls.

Check out our web-site for seasonal value packages. We have terrific deals that accompany our hotel accommodations, some include FREE passes to the Waterpark, Marvel Adventure City or MGM Studio Plaza.

Similar Posts:

Niagara Wines

admin — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 13:35:00 +0000

Many people may not realize that Canada’s Niagara Region is not only home to a natural wonder, but a rich agricultural area, as well. The Niagara Escarpment is a 725 km (450 mile) long shelf/transition zone running through southern and central Ontario.

In this area, the climate is moderated by lakes Ontario and Erie, with mineral-rich soils throughout. This unique combination, the lakes effect and extremely fertile soil, join in the Escarpment, this rocky transition zone between different physiogeographic zones, to make a grape grower’s paradise, and home to some world renown wineries. Because the cooler lake air flows across the region in early spring, the buds are inhibited from blooming before the last frost. The Escarpment climate is similar to that of other great wine regions in the world, such as Burgundy, the Loire Valley and New Zealand.

The Niagara Region, as it is known, is home to the great vinifera grapes, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Riesling. These vineyards are spread over 16,000 acres and are a site to behold in late spring and early summer.

Over 40 wineries make the Niagara Region their home and many tasting tours and special accommodations are available for the wine connoisseurs and everyday folks to enjoy their stay.

Whatever your preference, there is a great vacation waiting for you. Not only will you enjoy the great wines and beautiful scenery, but plan your stay at a 5 star hotel, in the heart of the city, or for a quieter respite, try one of the delightful period inns or bed and breakfasts. Make it a family affair. Bring the kids and stay at one of the incredible resort complexes.

What goes with a world class wine and accommodations? Great cuisine, of course. Canada is truly diverse in the cultures that call it home. This brings the influence of great world cuisine and the opportunity to enjoy an ‘around the globe’ dining experience.

The Niagara Region – a place of incredible cultural and natural diversity is waiting for you. Cheers!”

Similar Posts:

The Sky Wheel

admin — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 04:00:00 +0000

The Sky Wheel is Niagara Falls own version of the Millennium Wheel. At 53 meters tall each ride on the Sky Wheel lasts 10 exciting minutes. The 42 gondolas slowly rise to the top and the view provided on a clear day is absolutely magnificent. The view of the Falls on a clear day is breathtaking from the top of the Wheel.

A camera is a must to bring on the ride. At the very top, both the Horseshoe and American Falls are seen in their majestic splendor. On a clear day, one can see the Niagara parks and surrounding landmarks for miles.

The ride is best taken in the evening to capture the glitter of the Niagara Skyline and the illumination of the Falls. The wheel turns surprisingly slowly- it takes about 10 minutes to go round, so one has plenty of time take photos to scenic landmarks.

All Gondolas are fully equipped to provide either heat or air conditioning. The Sky Wheel does offer access for the handicapped

The Sky Wheel is located on Clifton Hill. the entrance is $ 9.99 for adults and $ 5.99 for children. One can call 905 358 4793 for further information.

Similar Posts:

Clifton Hill

admin — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 01:38:45 +0000

Clifton Hill is one of the major tourist destinations in Niagara Falls, Canada. It is a street located just one block to the Niagara Falls containing lots of gift shops, wax museums, haunted houses, restaurants, hotels and other themed attractions. It is a major amusement area and centre of night life. That is why it is also called The Entertainment and Dining District.

Niagara SkyWheel

The SkyWheel is a 53-meter tall Ferris wheel towering over the Niagara Falls horizon. It offers a magnificent view of the surrounding area like the Niagara River, parks and other attractions. An evening ride on the Skywheel will let you see the lights of Clifton Hill and the surrounding Niagara skyline. All 42 gondolas are fully closed with heating or air conditioning that can seat up to six people. Admission rates are $9.99 plus tax for Adults and $5.99 plus tax for Children.

Movieland Wax Museum

It is said that a walk through Movieland is like a walk through entertainment history as the museum features all of your favorite movie, television and recording stars set in their most memorable scenes and also some newly created scenes. Admission rates are $9.99 plus tax for Adults and $5.99 plus tax for Children. Kids under three years old are free of admission.

Dinosaur Park Miniature Golf

This mini putt golf course lets you step back to prehistoric times when you play their 18-hole miniature golf course. The course has a par of 40 and takes around 30-45 minutes to play. The Dinosaur Park is located near the top of Clifton Hill just behind Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Admission rates are $9.99 plus tax for Adults and $5.99 plus tax for Children.

Ghost Blasters Dark Ride

The Ghost Blasters Dark Ride is a fun and interactive ride where you can take a ride through a haunted house and shoot ghosts with lasers. Each car on this ride can seat 2 people and the entire ride takes around 5 minutes. This attraction is located in the Great Canadian Midway. Admission rates for both Adults and Children are $4.99 plus tax.

Similar Posts:

Niagara Falls Water Parks

admin — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:00:00 +0000

Wet Family-Fun at Niagara’s Water Parks. This spring Niagara Falls’ waterpark resorts open their doors to soak eagerly awaiting families at the city’s newest attractions. Both world-class attractions which include the Fallsview Indoor Water Park, at Falls Ave. near Casino Niagara and Sheraton on the Falls, and The Great Wolf Lodge Resort near the Niagara Parks are set to open in early April.

The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is a huge indoor water park with a wave pool and water slide complex which include features such as the Toob Tower, The Plunge Bowl, Extreme Slide Racing, and Niagara Waterworks – an enormous water-play attraction. The complex is owned by Canadian Niagara Hotels which operates Sheraton at the Falls, The Brock Plaza Hotel, and The Skyline Inn. All of the hotels are connected to Fallsview by indoor walkways and part of the Falls Avenue entertainment complex. Other adjacent attractions include the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Store and Pile Driver ride, Marvel Adventure City, and MGM Studios. Restaurants include Planet Hollywood, Hard Rock Cafe, and Rainforest Cafe.

The Great Wolf Lodge Water-Park & Resort complex in Niagara Falls will offer the kind of indoor water park fun you can expect from a world-class resort . It will be part of a destination resort that will include Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. At 82,000 sq. ft., the indoor water park will be among the world’s largest and will include attractions such as an uphill water coaster and a wave pool. In addition to the water park, the Lodge will include over 400 suite rooms, and family-fun attractions which include a massive arcade, family restaurants, outdoor pool, mini-putt, and luxurious Spa.

Also in Niagara Falls experience the waves and slides at Waves water park attraction. A 25,000 square foot indoor water park with a retractable roof for year-round fun atthe Americana Spa and Conference Resort. Waves Water Park comes complete with a beach entry wave pool, tube slides, body slides, kiddy pool interactive play structure, whirlpools, lounge areas and food & bar services. Waves also features an extensive video arcade, redemption centre and gift shop.

Similar Posts:

GO Train to Niagara Falls

admin — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 05:05:56 +0000

Niagara Falls is one of the scenic hubs of Ontario tourism. Now one of the easiest and most relaxing ways to travel in Southern Ontario can get you to Niagara Falls, too! On every weekend and statutory holiday from the last week of school in June to the Thanksgiving long weekend in October, travellers from all over Southern Ontario can get on the GO and ride to Niagara Falls on the Lakeshore West route.

There is so much to do and see in beautiful Niagara Falls, and you can enjoy your day much more without the hassles of summer weekend traffic and parking. GO Transit will get you there ready to have a wonderful time. The GO train will leave Toronto’s Union Station and go westbound at 630 am, 940 am, 415 pm and 1005 pm to Niagara, stopping at the Lakeshore West stations of Port Credit, Oakville, Burlington, St. Catharines and Niagara Falls only. The first trip back from Niagara Falls to Toronto will leave the Niagara Falls station at 850 am. The final trip of the day returning to Toronto will set out at 1025 pm.

This seasonal GO train service also makes the Canadian National Exhibition more accessible to fans of the summer spectacular who live in the Niagara Region. Trains go to the “Ex” from St. Catharines and Niagara Falls on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays for the duration of the CNE. Admission tickets for the CNE can be purchased before your departure at the GO stations in Niagara Falls and St. Catharines.

Whether you are travelling to Niagara Falls for a day filled with natural beauty and historic interest, or coming into Toronto from Niagara for the CNE or other events, entrust your trip to GO Transit. You and your family will arrive refreshed and relaxed, ready to spend an unforgettable day in Southern Ontario.

Similar Posts:

Sheraton Fallsview Hotel

admin — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 19:47:43 +0000

One of the newest hotel properties in the Niagara Falls area, the Sheraton Fallsview has quickly become one of the most popular. Everyone, from honeymooners to families to businesses rewarding their employees with a special event, will find just what they are looking for – and more – at the Sheraton Fallsview.

For range of accommodation, the Sheraton Fallsview is world-class. You can stay for just one night, or as long as you like, in any of a terrific array of guest rooms, suites, or even a two-storey loft. Choose a guest room with its own whirlpool for an intimate weekend, a large family suite where the whole clan can sleep in gracious comfort, or a one-level or two-storey suite ranging in size from four hundred square feet to an apartment-size 750 square feet of luxury.

The Fallsview Casino, for our guests 19 years of age or older, is a dazzling world of its own, with sparkling lights, the spin of slot machines and the quiet elegance of the blackjack and roulette tables. Try your luck, and feel lucky to be our guest with the amenities offered with our Casino and other accommodations packages.

Dining is always an eagerly anticipated pleasure at Sheraton Fallsview. Guests at the Sheraton Fallsview often get up early to savour the Hot Breakfast Buffet included with many of our guest packages. Our steakhouse, A Cut Above, offers a panoramic view of both the American and Canadian (Horseshoe) Falls as you are tempted by our marvellous dinner menu. For casual lunches and dinners, pop in to Stanley’s Lounge. Sip the latest in coffees, teas, and other beverages, and feast on scrumptious desserts, at Starbucks at the lobby level.

From your guest room to the dining rooms to the shops and casino, the staff of Sheraton Fallsview will show you how lucky we are that you chose to stay in Niagara Falls with us.

Similar Posts:

Marriott Fallsview Hotel

admin — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 12:43:31 +0000

Just one hundred yards away from the majestic crescent of liquid thunder that is Canada’s Horseshoe Falls, the Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel and Spa will quickly demonstrate how it earned its coveted 4-diamond and 5-star ratings as the finest hotel in the Niagara Region.

Bring the family to the Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview for an unforgettable stay with the “Kids Love Niagara” package. Special offers are included for these unique activities: twenty tokens for fun and play in the Marriott Arcade, passes for four (2 adults and two children) to the amazing Skywheel, a 175-foot observers’ wheel with fully enclosed gondolas, and admissions for 4 to the astounding magic presentations of Greg Frewin. For a quiet night in, try our Movie and Popcorn Night presented in your guest room. When everyone is hungry, use the $75 voucher for dinner in the renowned Terrapin Grille Room, and be sure to bring an appetite to the daily Buffet Breakfast, complimentary with this package from Marriott.

Want to unwind on a romantic weekend for two? Choose the Romance and Spa Package at the Marriott Fallsview. From champagne to roses, to strawberries dipped in chocolate, we set the atmosphere just right. Book and enjoy one complimentary Spa service: massage, facial, hot stone skin treatment, or one of many others at the Serenity Spa, overlooking the magnificent Horseshoe Falls. Guest accommodations available with the Romance and Spa Package include any of the Whirlpool suites with king-size beds, some with fireplace, and several with a two-storey layout for the ultimate in intimacy.

In the Niagara Region, golf is a three-season sport, and the Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview golf vacation packages are second to none. In cooperation with three of the top Niagara golf courses: Rees Jones, Legends on the Niagara, and Whirlpool Golf, the Marriott Niagara Falls Hotel can create a golf package to entertain and thrill every golfer from the lighthearted novice to the skilled low-scorer.

For family holidays, romance, and sporting fun, the place to make your base for a great vacation is the Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel and Spa.

Similar Posts:

Hilton Hotel and Suites

admin — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 01:00:06 +0000

Striving to make your Niagara stay even better, the Hilton Hotel and Suites has just opened the tallest property in Canada, a gleaming tower of five hundred suites-only guest accommodations. In a prime location to the north of Horseshoe Falls, the Hilton Suites provides the most-desired amenities in each suite: the latest wireless technology, big-screen plasma TVs, sumptuous king-sized beds, and a relaxing Jacuzzi from which you can view the breathtaking Horseshoe, Bridal Veil and American Falls.

Upon leaving your room, the gracious care bestowed by Hilton Hotels continues. All of our accommodation packages include vouchers for travel on the Niagara Shuttles, including the famous People Mover buses right along the Niagara River. Family Fun packages for one or two nights feature passes to ride the Maid of the Mist, venture behind Niagara Falls, and visit other Niagara Falls and Niagara River attractions.

Add the Bed and Breakfast Plan to any of the Hilton Hotels and Suites packages. Sample the “make your own omelette” area, several hot dishes, delectable breakfast pastries and breads, and a tempting selection of beverages from piping hot coffee to fresh juices.

Three unique restaurants in the Niagara Falls Hilton offer many delicious options for lunch and dinner. Romano’s Macaroni Grill has traditional Italian dishes in healthy-sized portions using the freshest ingredients. The Brasa Brazilian Steakhouse presents succulent meats, poultry and game cooked on an open grill, carved at your table and served on skewers. Head up to the Watermark Rooftop restaurant for dinner and the nightly Fireworks at the Falls.

For a short or long stay, with family or just the two of you, choose the Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel and Suites to truly get away from it all.

For More Info: www.lodgingniagara.com/hilton-fallsview.html

Similar Posts:

Best Western Fallsview

admin — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:37:00 +0000

Of course, Niagara Falls’ Best Western flagship property, the Best Western Fallsview Hotel, wants to make your family’s stay comfortable and meet your needs – that’s a given. But they also want to do this for your pets. One of the only certified Pet-friendly hotels in the Niagara Region, Best Western will happily make arrangements for your pets to stay at the hotel, accessible to you at any time.

Best Western Niagara Fallsview also wants to minimize its impact on the environment. In order to achieve this goal in food presentation, the Best Western Boulevard Bistro is the first restaurant in the area to adopt a “Farm to Table” policy of procuring all its fresh food from local farms and ranches wherever possible. The Boulevard Bistro seasonally updates its menus to feature the finest ingredients from local and regional growers.

The Best Western also is working in cooperation with Bike Niagara and the Toronto-Niagara Greenbelt Express train service to offer cyclists specialized tours and packages, so they can visit the top tourist attractions in the Niagara Falls area on two wheels. The Greenbelt Express train allows cyclists to bring their bikes along while travelling by Via Rail from Toronto to Niagara Falls on weekends throughout the summer months. Arrive at the Best Western by direct shuttle from the “Bike Train”, and put your bike in the hotel’s secure bicycle storage. Retrieve it easily when it’s time to hit the trails. Designated motorcycle parking and other facilities are available for the comfort and convenience of travelling motorcyclists.

Local bicycle specialists, Zoom Leisure, also maintain a kiosk in the Best Western Niagara Falls Fallsview lobby to enable visitors to rent a bicycle for the duration of their stay. Zoom Leisure has also created a series of bike tours, from professionally guided to do-it-yourself, using expertly created maps.

For your pets, for better fitness, for the health of the environment – make Best Western Fallsview your home base for your Niagara Falls vacation.

Similar Posts:

Embassy Suites

admin — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 05:32:44 +0000

Embassy Suites may be Hilton’s budget-friendly division, but you still get all the care and attention that have made the Hilton name mean “first-class hotel” around the world. The Embassy Suites in Niagara Falls promotes this philosophy in a 512-suite property, with amenities like much larger hotels at an affordable price.

Among the favourite accommodation packages at the Embassy Suites Niagara Falls are the Live Theatre plans. At various times of the year, you could attend a unique fundraiser, “Niagara Light of Day” to help those with Parkinson’s and ALS; a Las Vegas style magic show starring Greg Frewin; and “Casino Concerts” featuring the top acts from Las Vegas, Atlantic City and other top performing venues around North America. Included with the Live Theatre packages are custom-cooked breakfasts for everyone in your group, gift certificates for dining at either the Embassy Suites Keg or TGI Friday’s restaurants, a selection of travel and attraction passes to use through your entire stay, and a Manager’s Reception.

The kids will be thrilled to come to Dave and Buster’s Gaming Midway at the Embassy Suites. Upon check-in to any of our suites, receive a gaming card with a $60 value to use at the vast array of arcade games at Dave and Buster’s. The family can revel in NASCAR rides, pinball, Guitar Hero, cyberspace tennis, basketball and golf. If you prefer, let your kids rise to the challenge while you enjoy a snack and drink at the world-renowned D&B Sports Bar.

When it’s time for dinner, relax in the well-loved atmosphere of one of Canada’s favourite steakhouses: The Keg at the Embassy Suites. With a perfect view of the curve of the Horseshoe Falls on the ninth floor, the Keg offers premium steaks and perfectly prepared sides that will signal the finale of a wonderful day.

Settle in at the Embassy Suites Niagara Falls for your vacation. You’ll savour every moment of your stay.

Similar Posts:

Niagara on the Lake

admin — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 01:51:42 +0000

Niagara on the Lake is often called the loveliest town in Ontario and also an picturesque commercial centre with many shops and dining destinations among beautiful old homes lining the tree-shaded streets. Niagara on the Lake offers many attractions including historical sites like Fort George and the Historical Society Museum, theatres, the heritage business district, golf courses, parks, markets, and the world-famous Niagara wineries. Niagara on the Lake is located at the south shore of Lake Ontario at the mouth of the Niagara River and can be reached via highway from all of Ontario and the northeastern USA.

Niagara on the Lake : Bike Rentals

Biking is a must do experience during your visit on Niagara on the Lake. Rental rates are $20 for half day or 3 hours and $30 for full day until dark. Long term rentals are also available from 2 days to 7 days with prices ranging from $50 to $105. All bikes have baskets, water bottle cages, kickstands, helmets, bike locks and maps all included in the rental price.

Mystery on the Lake

Mystery on the Lake: The Secret of Butlersburg is an interactive theatre where the audience can interact with actors in secret locations around Niagara on the Lake. It is more of a mystery as the starting location is also kept a secret. It is like a walking tour, scavenger hunt and historical puzzle all rolled into one as you will be walking and discover other sides of town, hunting down clues and trying to solve the mystery, and lastly, you will be learning more about the town’s history. Sampling of local food and beverages and admission to two of Niagara on the Lake’s premier historical attractions is also included.

Similar Posts:

Hilton Fallsview

admin — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 01:33:31 +0000

The Hilton Niagara Falls Hotel overlooks both the American Falls and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. The hotel is directly connected to the new Fallsview Casino Resort by a heated and air-conditioned indoor glass enclosed walkway.

All rooms in the hotel are decorated in a classical resort style with a single whirlpool tub or a 2-person Jacuzzi. There are also 4 restaurants in the hotel: Watermark Restaurant, Macaroni Grill, Brasa Brazilian Steakhouse, and Grand Caffe Breakfast Buffet. There is also a casino offering 150 game tables, 3000 slot machines, restaurants, a wedding chapel, shopping center and an indoor parking space. Directly across the hotel, the Niagara Fallsview Casino offers world class gaming, and daily Concerts at the 1500-seat Avalon Ballroom Theatre with state-of-the-art sound systems. The Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview shuttle is also available multiple times a day providing transportation services from the hotel to the Clifton Hill entertainment district and Souvenir City shopping complex then back to the hotel.

Weddings can also be held at the Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel with their customized wedding packages not only accommodating to your food and beverage needs but also to your budgets. Many benefits await the bride and groom like a complimentary junior suite on the wedding night, wedding night amenities in the suite, continental breakfast served to your suite and another complimentary suite on your one year anniversary.

There are 3 kinds of rooms and 3 kinds of suites available in the hotel. For the rooms, the options are 2 Queen Beds, 1 King bed or the King Studio (Jacuzzi). For the suites, the options are 2-Bedroom Family Suites, 2-Bedroom JR Presidential Suites (Jacuzzi), or the 3-room Parlor Suites.

Similar Posts:

Sheraton on the Falls

admin — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 01:29:46 +0000

Sheraton on the Falls is a 22-story Fallsview hotel also known as one of Niagara’s largest and most luxurious Fallsview accommodations. It is situated directly across from the Niagara Falls in the heart of the tourist district. It is located at the corner of Clifton Hill and Falls Avenue on the Falls Avenue Entertainment Complex.

The Sheraton on the Falls has 670 spacious guestrooms and suites featuring their Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed. There are lots of room amenities complimenting the magnificent views such as the above-stated Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed with warm blankets, cozy duvet, crisp sheets, and hypo-allergenic pillows. Wireless Internet access is also available on an hourly, daily, or weekly rate in all of their guestrooms for an ensured connection. Other amenities available are iron/ironing boards, coffee maker with complimentary coffee/tea, pay-per-view movies/video games, hairdryer, and a desk/work space.

There are also restaurants, spas, fitness centers, pools and stores in the hotel. The Sheraton on the Falls has their signature Fallsview Restaurant located at the penthouse level of the hotel. The Sheraton’s Fallsview Christienne Spa and Fitness Center features a wide range of treatments and packages. There are also two pools in the hotel, one is the indoor pool and the other is the outer pool and patio on the roof of the conference center. The Sheraton on the Falls shopping concourse is located on the lobby level and offers a variety of stores.

The Sheraton on the Falls doesn’t only provide you with great amenities but also connects you to them as the Falls Avenue indoor walkway provides guests direct indoor access to Casino Niagara, Fallsview Indoor Waterpark and lots of other Niagara Falls attractions.

Similar Posts:

Skylon Tower

admin — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:06:45 +0000

The Skylon Tower is the tallest structure in Niagara Falls, Canada. It is also the most famous landmark in Niagara as it overlooks both the American Falls and the Horseshoe Falls. The tower is located in the heart of the hotel, dining, and entertainment district just steps away from the Falls and across the Fallsview Casino. They offer a Ride-to-the-Top attraction aboard any of the three exterior glass-enclosed “Yellow Bug Elevators” in just 52 seconds where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Niagara Falls, the Great Gorge, the Niagara wine district and the city skylines of Buffalo, New York and Toronto, Canada. It is also considered as the highest vantage point in Niagara where you can see 8000 square miles of Canada and the United States.

At the top of the Skylon Tower are two restaurants, the first is the lower Revolving Dining Room and the other is the upper Summit Suite Buffet Dining Room. The Revolving Dining Room can seat up to 276 people and silently revolves once every hour. There are also indoor and outdoor observation decks at the tower’s summit and the base of the tower features some gift shops, fast food restaurants and an amusement arcade.

Showing only in the Skylon Tower’s new 60 sit motion theater, t he Skylon Tower also features the all new 3D / 4D Falls Movie – “Legends of Niagara Falls” where you can experience the power of the Falls up close in amazing 3D/ 4D effects . It is also home to the Skylon Family Fun Center which is the largest indoor entertainment center in Niagara Falls. It features high-tech interactive games and rides for all ages. Most attractions that are found in the Skylon Tower are open daily all year round.

Similar Posts:

Who Owns the Falls

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:34:01 +0000

Who owns the Falls?

Ownership of the Falls is divided between Canada and the USA. All of Horseshoe Falls is located in Canada. The American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are located in the U.S. American Falls is also known as Rainbow Falls.

Horseshoe Falls is 53 meters or 173 feet to the base, and is 670 meters or 2200 feet wide. The Niagara River flows at a rate of about 21 miles per hour to the crest . Horseshoe Falls also has the majority of the water flowing to it.

American Falls is about 56 meters or 182 feet high, but the rocks at the bottom of both American and Bridal Veil Falls shortens that to about 21 meters or 70 feet. The top of American Falls is around 290 meters or 950 feet wide.

To the south of American Falls is Bridal Veil Falls, it is separated from American Falls by a small strip of land known as Luna Island. Bridal Veil is approximately 17 meters or 56 feet wide.Similar Posts:

Formation of Falls

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:32:40 +0000

The Niagara Falls started some 10,000 years ago in the Wisconsin glaciation period. Both the North American Great Lakes and the Niagara River are the results of this last continental ice sheet, a huge glacier that swept across the area from eastern Canada. During the birth of Niagara Falls the glacier ripped through the area like a giant bulldozer, destroying rocks and soil, tossing them around, and turning some river channels into lakes. It dammed other channels with debris, forcing these rivers to divert and make new channels. It’s believed is an ancient valley, buried by glacial drift, about where, now, the Welland Canal is located.

Once the ice melted, drainage from the upper Great Lakes became the Niagara River, which could not follow the now filled valley, so it found the deepest outlet on the new landscape. Over the years the river cut a gorge across the Niagara Escarpment, the north facing cliff of the southern tilted and resistant Lockport formation between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. As it moved through there it exposed old marine rocks that are quite a bit older than the comparatively recent glaciation. There are three major formations that were exposed in the gorge that was cut by the Niagara River.

The Falls plunge about 170 feet (52 meters), however, the American Falls have a only a drop of 70 feet (21 meters) before hitting a pile of fallen rocks which were deposited by a massive rock slide in 1954. The bigger Canadian Falls are about 2,600 feet (792 meters) wide, while the American Falls are 1,060 feet (323 meters) wide. The amount of water approaching the Falls during peak flow season is 202,000 feet (5,720 meters). However in the summer months, when the largest diversion of water for hydroelectric power occurs, 100,000 feet (2,832 meters) of water actually spills over the Falls, and about 90% of that goes over the Horseshoe Falls. This volume is further cut in half at night, when most of the water delivery to hydroelectric facilities occurs.

Although erosion has been drastically reduced in this century by modern day techniques, the falls will eventually recede far enough to drain most of Lake Erie, since the bottom of the lake is higher than the bottom of the falls. Engineers are working to reduce the rate of erosion to delay this event as long as possible. Originally the Niagara Falls were located near the site of Lewiston, New York, and Queenston, Ontario, but erosion at the top has caused the waterfalls to move some miles south. Just upstream from their current location, Goat Island causes a split in the the course of the Niagara River, resulting in separating the Horseshoe Falls in the west from the American and Bridal Veil Falls in the east. “Similar Posts:

Flying Fish

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:30:12 +0000

Do the fish go over the falls?

Yes, they do. Most survive the hard journey over the falls, sometimes laying stunned for a few minutes at the bottom before continuing their journey down the river.

Since water is the natural habitat for fish and they are much more buoyant than we are, going over the falls isn’t much different for them as an elevator is for us. Most of the time the fish stays in the water as it heads over the falls, and the foam at the bottom acts as a cushion for them. They can withstand a large amount of pressure before it will cause any injury to them. The pool at the bottom of the Falls is about 150 feet deep so most of the time they aren’t forced to the river bed. Their biggest threat when going over the Falls isn’t the fall itself but the seagulls waiting at the bottom to pluck the stunned fish out of the water before they get the chance to recover.

More fish are injured going over American and Bridal Veil falls due being crushed against the rocks at the bottom of the Falls.

Interestinly enough, a number of years back a tourist was hit by a salmon while taking a stroll on the Cave of the Winds boardwalk. He wasn’t hurt, but he did catch the fish and was allowed to keep it.

You won’t see fish jumping out of the water at the bottom due to the volume of water falling, and it’s very rare to see dead fish at the bottom.

What kind of fish are found?

The Niagara River contains around 94 species of fish including the Chinook and Coho Salmon, Smallmouth Bass, Rainbow and Lake Trout, Catfish Muskellunge, Northern Pike and Yellow Perch. The biggest fish found in the Niagara is the Lake Sturgeon that can reach 7 feet in length and weigh more than 300 pounds. It’s not unheard of to catch a salmon weighing 20 to 30 pounds during the fall months.

Similar Posts:

First Visitors

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:29:20 +0000

A number of historical reports say that the first European to visit the Falls was a Jesuit Priest by the name of Father Louis Hennepin in 1678, however many believe the first European visitor appeared at the Falls a number of years prior to that.

Etienne Brule arrived in Niagara in 1626. He was one of many missionaries that came to visit the Neutral Indians along the Niagara. While he was that close, it’s hard to believe he wouldn’t have at least seen the Falls.

Rene-Robert Chevalier and Sieur de La Salle, french explorers were known to have briefly visited the Falls in 1666. In 1678, La Salle and his party established an outpost on the Chippawa Creek where it joined the Niagara River. They spent a whole afternoon at the Falls in December of 1678. At that time Father Hennepin, drew a picture of the Falls. That same picture appears in a book published in 1699.

So, although some may believe Hennepin was the first to visit, because of the picture he drew, he was actually just the first European that had visited it, drew a picture and wrote a story about the Falls. More than likely the first to visit would have been Brule.Similar Posts:

Niagara Falls’ off Night

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:28:29 +0000

No, but the rate of flow is reduced. From April through October, during tourist season, the water flows at a rate of 100,000 cubic feet per second. Canadian and American governments made an agreement that the flow would stay at this rate throughout the tourist season. The Falls have an estimated 12 million visitors each year, and the agreement between the Ontario Hydro and the New York Power Authority allows the flow to remain at that rate while allowing them to draw a reduced amount of water so that it does not interfere with the amount of water going over the Falls.

In order to satisfy the needs of all parties, at dusk each night, during the tourist season, the flow rate is reduced to 50,000 cubic feet per second. This allows the Hydro Authority and New York State Power Authority to fill up their massive reservoirs. During the daytime when the flow is increased over the Falls, the Power Authorities draw water from their reservoirs to make up for any deficit.

From November to April the rate of flow is reduced to 50,000 cubic feet per second, 24 hours a day. The Hydro plants draw the remainder for hydro generation. This reduction in water flow is why the Maid of the Mist has to be out of the water by October 31st of each year.

The control dam is owned jointly by Canada and the USA. By agreement, it is operated by Ontario Hydro. It was located on the Canadian side due to the fact that the river bed slants toward the Canadian side. Each side has specific water drawing times, these are strictly regulated. When the American side is drawing water, the gates on the dam are closed causing the water to be forced to the water intakes on the American side. The dam also assists in drawing the water to the intakes on the Canadian side when they are drawing water.

The Niagara River flows at a rate of 212,000 cubic feet per second. Even on the hottest summer day, an estimated 100,000 cubic feet of water per second is being drawn for hydro generation.

Similar Posts:

Falls Freeze

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:27:22 +0000

The water in the Niagara River moves very fast, moving an average of 212,000 cubic feet of water per second. It’s moving far too fast and pushing way too much water to ever freeze.

In late December an ice bridge forms at the base of the falls and over portions of the lower Niagara River. The Niagara River is fed by Lake Erie which is a huge lake, but not very deep. The ice goes over the Falls and freezes to the edges and keeps building on itself until the river is covered in ice anywhere from 40 to 80 feet thick. This ice rises on a layer of air, as the water keeps flowing beneath it.

Since records have been kept, American Falls has frozen a total of six times. The flow of water over this Fall is rather small, 10,000 cubic feet per second and in the winter that is reduced to around 8,000. This amount of water is barely able to cover the rock face and during harsh winters, allows the American Falls to freeze over.

In the 1960’s an ice boom was placed at the mouth of the River and since then it has basically eliminated the possibility of the Falls freezing over.

The longest American Falls was ever frozen was 15 days, beginning on February 7th 1936. American Falls now receives about 10% of the flow of water to the Falls.

Due to the possibility of the ice bridge collapsing or moving, the public is not allowed to walk across the ice bridge. The mist formed as the water flows over the Falls freezes on contact and creates a winter wonderland of shining crystals along the shoreline.Similar Posts:

Falls Foam

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:25:58 +0000

What’s foam in the water below the Falls?

The foam is calcium carbonate that comes from the mist as it evaporates when it comes over the Falls. It mixes with decaying diatoms and other algae to make the foam. This is a natural occurrence.

Once the foam moves downstream it will once again mix with the water and disappear. This also occurs in the area of the Whirlpool.Similar Posts:

Falls Erosion

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:24:46 +0000

How much does Niagara Falls erode each year?

Studies to determine how much erosion was taking place were started in 1842. Between that year and 1905 erosion took place at the rate of 1.16 meters, or 3.8 feet per year, at Horseshoe Falls. Between 1906 and 1927 the erosion rate declined to .70 meters, or 2.3 feet per year. The decline was due to water being diverted for hydro electric generation.

Currently remedial efforts are underway to reduce the erosion even more. It is estimated that erosion is reduced to less than 1 foot per year due to those efforts.

At American Falls the flow rate of 10,000 cubic feet per second is insufficient to cause any major erosion. As it stands today, American Falls has an erosion rate of about 3 to 4 inches per year. The biggest factor for the American falls is the fact that it has cracks at the Crestline in the top cap rock layer. Underneath that is a softer shale layer. The lifting action of water coming through these cracks cause them to become larger and along with the freezing and thawing each year, the rock structure continues to weaken until that part finally cracks and falls off. The flow at American Falls isn’t strong enough to erode the rocks at the bottom of the Fall.Similar Posts:

Falls Boundry

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:23:46 +0000

The current boundary line is determined by the Treaty of Ghent made December 24th 1814. The international boundary is set right down the middle of the river between lakes Erie and Ontario. With this division, the U.S. ended up with most of the islands, however Canada has Navy Island.

In 1909 the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909 came into being to resolve any future boundary disputes. During the shaping of Terrapin Point, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers expanded the land area outward from Terrapin Point since the water was flowing to the center and the flanks were dry. This put all of Horseshoe Falls in Canada.

Other older treaties having to do with the boundaries were the Paris Peace Treaty made September 3rd, 1783 and the Jay Treaty made November 19th, 1794. The boundaries have remained the same since before the War of 1812.Similar Posts:

Daredevil Law

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:22:39 +0000

According to Ontario Regulation 829/90 which governs activities in the park, it is a provincial offense, comparable to getting a ticket for speeding, to do anything that might draw a crowd or to perform any stunt or feat without getting written permission from the Commission. There is no set fine and the person would end up in court.

This conviction carries a fine of $5000.00 or 6 months in jail or both. Niagara Falls Police are in charge of enforcement of this law..

How many people have gone over the Falls in a barrel?

A total of 15 people have attempted to go over the Falls. Of those, 13 have attempted it in a barrel of some sort. Two others also tried, one was in a kayak and the other on a jet ski, both of these died. A total of 3 of the persons attempting the Falls by barrel were killed making it a total of 5 deaths.

Several people have announced that they were going to try it, but ended up backing out. All the attempts made were over Horseshoe Falls, the rocks at the base of American Falls made it too dangerous to attempt.Similar Posts:

Niagara River

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:21:03 +0000

In the 1960s the Welland Canal was improved and incorporated into the Saint Lawrence Seaway. Ships can now bypass Niagara Falls.
Up until the 1970’s with the help of the electric power produced by the river, industries in the Niagara River valley flourished, however after the water was diverted from the Buffalo area it caused the steel and grain mills in that area to shut down. Since then the region has declined economically.

Niagara Falls, Ontario and Niagara Falls, New York are joined by three bridges, including the the Whirlpool Bridge, and the newest bridge, the Lewiston-Queenston located near the escarpment and the Rainbow bridge located downriver from the Falls, the Rainbow Bridge offers the closest view of the falls.Similar Posts:

Niagara Daredevils

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:19:59 +0000

Many daredevils have made crossing the Falls their goal. It began with with the successful crossing by Jean Fran¨∞ois Blondin” Gravelet in 1859 Tightrope walkers have drawn large crowds to their exploits. Matthew Webb, from England who the first man to swim the English Channel, drowned in 1883 after attempting to swim across the whirlpools and rapids beneath the Falls. He was not successful.

The first person to go over the falls was, Sam Patch, who called himself The Yankee Leaper, jumped over the Horseshoe Falls in October 1829 and became the first person known to survive the plunge. This was the beginning of a number of daredevils trying to go over the Falls and survive. The first person to go over the falls in a barrel was 63-year-old Annie Taylor in 1901, she survived the fall unharmed.

Since Ms. Taylor’s 1901 ride, 14 other people have attempted to go over the Falls in or on a device. Some have survived and come out just fine, but others have been severely injured or died in the attempt. Those that survive the attempt face charges and stiff fines, as it is illegal, on both sides of the border, to attempt to go over the Falls. David Copperfield, a renowned magician recently added his name to the list of these daredevils, successfully going over, or appearing to go over the Falls in 1990.

On October 20th 2003, Kirk Jones became the first person to go over the Horseshoe Falls without a any type of flotation device The question remains whether Jones was determined to commit suicide or not, he lived through the 16-story fall with only battered ribs, scrapes, and bruises.

In July of 1960 Roger Woodward, a nine-year-old American boy, was swept over the Falls wearing only a life preserver He was picked up from the plunge pool beneath the Horseshoe Falls by tourists riding the Maid of the Mist boat. No one thought this child would survive the plunge and when he did, it became know worldwide as the Miracle at Niagara.
“Similar Posts:

Hydro Power

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:18:20 +0000

In 1759 Daniel Joncairs was the first to harness the power of the Falls when he built a canal above the Falls to power his sawmill. It was obvious that the Falls would be an incredible source of energy. In 1805, 2 brothers,Augustus and Peter Porter bought this area and all of American Falls from New York state government They then enlarged the original canal to provide hydraulic power for their tannery and gristmill. The Niagara Falls Hydraulic Power and Mining Company was chartered in 1853, they eventually constructed the canals which would be used to generate electricity. In 1881, Jacob Schoellkopf led the quest and enough power was produced to send direct current to illuminate both the Falls themselves and the Niagara Falls village.

When Nikola Tesla, invented alternating current, distant transfer of electricity became possible. He now has a memorial in his honor at Niagara Falls. In 1883, George Westinghouse was hired by the Niagara Falls Power Company, a descendant of Schoellkopf’s company, to design a system to generate alternating current. With backing from some of the wealthiest men in the area, like J.P. Morgan, John Jacob Astor IV, and the Vanderbilts, they had built huge underground conduits leading to turbines generating upwards of 100,000 horsepower (75 MW), and were sending power as far as Buffalo, twenty miles (32 km) away.

Private companies on the Canadian side also began to harness the energy of the Falls, they employed both Canadian and American firms in their efforts. in 1906 the Government of Ontario eventually brought power transmission operations under public control, distributing Niagara’s energy to various parts of that province. Currently between 50% and 75% of the Niagara River’s flow is diverted by four large tunnels that arise far upstream from the waterfalls. The water then passes through hydroelectric turbines that supply power to nearby areas of Canada and the United States before being returned to the river some distance past the Falls.

There are three powerful hydroelectric stations on the Niagara River nowadays are Sir Adam Beck 1 and 2 on the Canadian side, and the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant and the Lewiston Pump Generating Plant on the American side. The three, together, can produce about 4.4 GW of power.

The Ontario Power Generation is currently building a new 10.4 km tunnel to get water from further up the Niagara River. It is scheduled to be completed in 2009, and will increase Sir Adam Beck’s yearly output by about 1.6 TW_h.

Similar Posts:

Falls No Flow

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:16:43 +0000

There have only been 3 times that we know of where the Falls have either completely ran dry or were reduced to a trickle.

Accounts of the time the Falls ran dry are incomplete at best. According to newspapers of the time, sometime on March 29th or early on March 30th 1848 the water over the falls stopped for almost 2 days.

For several days the wind had been blowing across Lake Erie at gale force causing ice to jam up at the mouth of the Niagara River and effectively blocking the flow of water. Residents woke to an eerie silence on the morning of March 30th. Mills that had depended on the water flow had to shut down.

Over 5000 people came to see the dry falls. The dry river bed gave up its treasures that had been there for years, things like muskets, bayonets, tomahawks and other things that had lay under the water since the battle of 1812.

People made a show of walking across the river. If they had tried to cross while water was flowing it would have been a certain death. Soldiers form the U.S. Cavalry rode their horses down the river bed putting on an exhibition. It was a historical event, nothing like it had ever been known and had never happened again.

The owners of the Maid of the Mist boat were able to blast away boulders that had endangered the boat. But there was a downside. Many of the people believed the silencing of the Falls was a doomsday event, churches on both sides were filled and special services were held. As the Falls remained silent, fear escalated among the people. On the evening of March 31st, the wind shifted, residents heard a loud groan from upstream, followed by the normal flow of water over the Falls. The return of the water eased the fear of the residents.

The wind had a lot to do with the Falls running dry. A strong wind can raise the water level in one end of Lake Erie by up to 6 feet. It would be the same thing that happens with storm surges during a hurricane but on a smaller scale. Normally the river can only hold about 2% of the ice flow from Lake Erie, with the gale force winds they had at that time, it didn’t take long for the ice to cause a jam.

The second time the Falls were reduced to a trickle was in 1953 when remedial work was done on the Falls. They had built coffer dams over a portion of Horseshoe Falls to do the work that would allow a more even flow of water and lessen the erosion over the Falls.

The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers built a series of coffer dams over American Falls in 1969 to study the rock formations at the crest of the falls and see how difficult it would be to remove some of the rocks at the base. They finally decided to let nature take its course and restored the flow of water over the falls.Similar Posts:

Niagara Falls History

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:14:43 +0000

The Niagara region’s original inhabitants were the Ongiara, an Iroquois tribe named the Neutrals by French explorers, who found them helpful in mediating disputes with other tribes. The name Niagara” is said to originate from an Iroquois word meaning “thunder of waters”.

Iroquois legend tells of Lelawala, a beautiful maid given by her father to a brave she hated. Rather than marry, Lelawala chose to sacrifice herself to her one and only true love He-No, the Thunder God, who lived in a cave behind the Horseshoe Falls. She paddled her canoe into the swift current of the Niagara River and was swept over the Falls. He-No caught her as she fell, and together their spirits are said to live forever in the Thunder God’s kingdom behind the Falls.

There is some confusion over which European gave the first written, eyewitness account of the Falls. Samuel de Champlain was in the area as early as 1604. Some of his party reported to him on the incredible waterfalls, and he wrote the reports in his journals but probably never actually seen them for himself. Others credit Finnish-Swedish naturalist Pehr Kalm with the description, written during an exploration of the area early in the 18th century.

However, it’s generally agreed that Father Louis Hennepin saw and described the Falls in 1677, after exploring the area with explorer Rene Robert Cavelier and Sieur de la Salle, and that he was the one that brought them to the world’s attention. Hennepin was also the first to describe the Saint Anthony Falls in Minnesota. He alse claimed that he traveled the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, however that was discredited and it cast some doubt on the truth of his writings and sketches of Niagara Falls. There is a county in Minnesota named after Father Hennepin.

In the 1800’s tourism became popular, and was the area’s main industry by mid-century. Napoleon’s brother visited with his bride in the early 19th century. There was a large demand for a way over the Niagara River, so in 1848 they built a footbridge and then Charles Ellet’s Niagara Suspension Bridge. In 1855 German-American John Augustus Roebling’s Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge was built then in 1886 Leffert Buck replaced Roebling’s wood and stone bridge with the mostly steel bridge that carries trains over the Niagara River even today.

In 1897 the first steel archway bridge near the Falls was completed. Today it is known as the Whirlpool Rapids Bridge, it is the bridge that runs between Canada and the U.S. just below the Falls. The Rainbow Bridge was built in 1941 by the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission, it carries both foot and vehicle traffic.

After World War One, tourism took off again. Automobiles made getting to the Falls a lot easier. In 20th century Niagara Falls the main goal has been to gather the power of the falls to turn it into energy and to control the rapid development on both the Canadian and American sides that threatens the area’s natural beauty.”Similar Posts:

Haunted Niagara

admin — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 11:29:19 +0000

Trails of blood have been seen streaming down the driveway of the apartments at 4223 Buttery Street, a recently renovated Victorian style mansion formerly known as the Pink Palace. Injured soldiers limp their way up the hill of the Drummond Hill Cemetery, and dishes often rattle from within the cupboards of the Inn.

- Movie Courtesy of Saremy127 at MetaCafe -

Reported apparitions and encounters such as these have allowed many to believe that Niagara is just as much dead, as it is alive.

Similar Posts:

Goat Island

admin — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 04:00:00 +0000

Goat Island is a tiny non populated island in northern New York, at the SW tip of Niagara County. It is situated in the middle of Niagara Falls on the Niagara River, between Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls.

On either side of the island, the Niagara River divides into two large streams which are responsible for the Canadian and American Versions of the Niagara Falls. From anywhere on Goat Island, one can easily view of the American and Horseshoe Falls. At the bottom of the Falls, one can hear the combined thunder and power of the ravaging water which races towards Lake Ontario.

Nearly half a century ago, part of the island was enlarged by a few acres to allow for a parking lot and a helicopter pad. The entire island is surrounded by fast running shallow water and the shore line has no beach soil, but is studded with large rocks and islets.

The island offers a great view of the Niagara Falls from the US side. With the development of a bridge, one can access the island by either walking or by car. The interior of the island is not inhabitable and is largely populated by woody trees and walking trails. On the eastern side of the island, an elevator has been built which can take one to the bottom of the falls and provides an easy access to the Cave of the Winds

Over the past 200 years, great efforts have been made to preserve the status of the island as a State Park. In spite of pressure from the growing economy, the Park has remained untouched by the near by Commerce Industry and it still remains on the oldest State Parks in the US.

The island is easily accessible all year around and the best views of the combined falls are at night, especially during the late summer and early autumn.

Similar Posts:

Great Wolf Lodge

admin — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0000

The massive water park resort is a half million square-foot, four story, log sided family indoor waterpark resort. It will feature over 400 guest rooms with a choice of ten suites configurations including including unique layouts such as a Grizzly Bear Suite which can sleep up to 8, a Loft Fireplace Suite, and children’s themed suites which include a Wolf Den, Kid Cabin and Kid Kamp, complete wiih cozy private ‘room-within-a-room’ for children.

In the center of the Great Wolf Lodge, behind the main entrance, the windows overlook the main attraction, Bear Track Landing” a colossal, 90-foot tall, indoor waterpark complex measuring at over 100,000 square-feet. A twelve level treehouse water-fort interconnected with suspension bridges, cargo nets, web crawls with over sixty water effects standing at the park’s entrance. A 4,000 litre (1,000-gallon) tipping bucket suspended at the top offers guests a thrilling introduction to one of the world’s largest indoor waterpark resorts, while the Rocket Watercoaster Ride ‘ one of only four in the world ‘ and the Mammoth Raft Ride ‘ the world’s largest tunnel family raft ride ‘ takes guests for the water rides of their lives!

Completely under roof, the waterpark will feature 13 waterslides, ranging in size from kiddie slides to fast-paced tube slides that wind in and out of the indoor waterpark, a massive indoor wave pool, recreation pool, lazy river and a zero-depth entry pool for even the youngest water-fans.

Other amenities include the Northern Lights’ Arcade, a 6,000 square-foot arcade; Iron Horse’ Fitness Room; and Cub Club’ ‘ the children’s frequent guest club.

Guests and the general public can also enjoy five fully-licensed, themed restaurants; Pizza Hut Express; Bear Claw Cafe confectionery; Buckhorn Exchange, gift emporium, Elements, an Aveda Concept Spa; and close to 10,000 square feet of meeting space, including a tiered, audio/visual symposium

Similar Posts:

UFO sightings over Niagara Falls

admin — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 01:25:59 +0000

As reported in local news over the last 24hrs, hundreds of spectators witness a UFO sighting over the Niagara Falls.

www.niagarafallsreview.ca

Similar Posts:

Niagara Favorite Haunts

admin — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 02:33:29 +0000

While Niagara’s spooky “Haunted Houses” are successful animated frightfests, an online video series producer is determined to show the real thing does exist in Niagara Falls.

“History of a Haunting,” Canada’s latest paranormal series, has just wrapped its first season in Niagara Falls. With its battle sites, many buildings and homes over two centuries old, the show’s producer, Jerry Potter, believes Niagara Falls is an ideal site to explore manifestations of lingering spirits. Two executive producers, Nathan Chamberland and Todd Brown, are also natives of the Niagara Region. The trailer for the series is online.

Among the sites they will visit is Drummond Cemetery, near the site of the Battle of Lundy’s Lane during the War of 1812. Sightings of soldiers who died from their wounds have been reported by many visitors at all times of day.

Another well-documented haunted spot in Niagara Falls is “The Screaming Tunnel”, on Warner Road, near where it intersects Garner Road. If one goes into the tunnel at any time and lights a match, a whoosh of air extinguishes the match instantly while a piercing shriek echoes off the high stone walls. In the early 1900s a farmhouse caught fire at the south entrace to the tunnel. The legend tells of a young girl, garments aflame, who escaped and ran into the tunnel where she perished. A visit to the Screaming Tunnel has convinced many skeptics that someone is still there in spirit.

Cavendish Manor, a girls’ school long ago, is the site of many encounters with ghostly little girls, both laughing and screaming fearfully. The legend goes that, soon after the screams sound, someone will die.

The Angel Inn, at Niagara-on-the-Lake, is reputed to house a British soldier, Captain Swayze, murdered by American soldiers in 1812. Captain Swayze reportedly likes to tamper with kegs and mugs of American beer.

Come to the Niagara region, and see if the ghosts will appear to you.

Similar Posts:

Niagara Falls Joke :)

admin — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 19:51:53 +0000

Guide: “I welcome you all to Niagara Falls. These are the world’s largest waterfalls and the sound intensity of the waterfall is so high, even 20 supersonic planes passing by can’t be heard.

Now may I request the ladies to keep quite so that we can hear the Niagara Falls?”

**from: jokesprank dot com/blog/funny-jokes-about-niagara-falls**

Similar Posts:

Niagara Falls New Years Eve

admin — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 04:00:00 +0000

Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2009/2010 in Niagara Falls Canada at Queen Victoria Park with fireworks and family concert in the park. This Dec 31st party rock legends Glass Tiger, STYX, and other world class talent perform live for free next to the Falls. Join over 30,000 spectators at this year’s festival, hosted by Niagara Parks Commission and televised around the world.

The outdoors New Years party in Niagara Falls starts at 8pm and runs till midnight with licensed beverage area and plenty of security. Join the world in celebration as we bring in 2010, at the one of the wonders of the world.

Similar Posts: