As one of the most spectacular natural attractions in North America, tourists flock towards the Niagara Falls. Here, running along the border between Canada and the USA, the waters of the Niagara River plummet downwards forming the most powerful waterfall in North America.
The Niagara Falls can be seen from either the US or Canadian side. From the US side (in the state of New York), Prospect Point Park and Goat Island offer some of the best views. A trail leads from Goat Island to a point beneath the section known as Bridal Veil Falls, where the Cave of the Winds viewing platform takes visitors right up to the plunging water.
On the Canadian side (the province of Ontario), Queen Victoria Park provides some great views. A series of underground walkways can be accessed from here, leading to cleverly situated observation rooms that give the impression of being within the falls themselves. An observation deck at the top of the nearby Skyline Tower gives a splendid overhead view of the waterfall.
The famous Maid of the Mist boat cruise is available from both sides of the Niagara Falls. Passengers are taken to all the major points along the waterfall; prepare to get wet, as the Horseshoe Falls section takes tourists deep into the dense spray of the falling water.
The twin towns on each side of the river are both called Niagara Falls. They are connected by three bridges allowing easy access from one to the other. The nearest city on the US side is Buffalo (about 23 miles), while Hamilton is the closest in Canada (40 miles).