A Tale of two falls

While some may have seen (through the movies) of newlyweds as they head off to a tale of two falls. En route off to Niagara to fulfill the long-awaited honeymoon and enjoy one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Taking that berth on the train and enjoying the rails’ clatter as they embarked on their new lives together. Yet, does anyone know if there was a border crossing involved? The U.S. side or the Canadian side? What, there are two sides? Indeed, they must be one and the same? On the contrary, both of these locations are very distinct from each other.

Each shares the same river and the same lakes. The Niagara River extends 35 kilometres (22 miles) from Lake Erie downstream to the cascade rapids, located 1km ( 0.6 miles) upstream of the Horseshoe Falls. Also known as the Canadian Falls or commonly Niagara Falls. This river narrows from 2.5 km (8500 feet) to 450 m. (1500 feet) at its narrowest point. 

Depending on where you take your measurement from, the Horseshoe Falls is an impressive 51 meters ( 167 feet) to 57 meters ( 188 feet) in height. With a crest of 670 meters in width (2200 feet) wide. A tale of two falls. On the U.S. side, they have two waterfalls, The American and The Bridal Veils Falls. Smaller does not mean less impressive. The American Falls is slightly shorter in stature that ranges from 21 to 34 meters (70-110 feet) in height and a captivating 260 meters ( 850 feet in width.) Whereas, the Bridal Veils measure 115 meters (377 feet) across.

Does Size Matter?

Ranked only in the top 50 of the world’s tallest waterfalls. What makes Niagara unique is not just the height, but the massive volume of water that thunders down it expanse daily. Frequently, mass quantities are diverted to Lewiston, New York and Queenston, Ontario, to create hydroelectricity for the surrounding areas. Making this a vital commodity for both countries. When not diverted, 168,000 cubic meters ( 6 million cubic feet) of water flow over the falls each minute or enough to fill a million bathtubs every second.

These geological megaliths have created an international border between the two counties since the treaty of Paris signed in 1783. During the war of 1812, a surprise attack was implemented by the U.S., only to be thwarted by British soldiers. The Introduction of the tale of two falls. A formation of each Niagara, as it diverges and creates its passage into modern history.

The Canadian Edition. The Early days. A Tale of two falls.

The early settlers in the Niagara Falls area were United Empire Loyalists. They were fleeing their homes in the former American colonies before and after the American Revolutionary war. They rebuilt their lives in many regions of Canada, including the west bank of the Niagara River. Among the earliest Loyalist settlers were The Lundy, Bender and McMicking, families. 

Mobility

The first bridge to cross the Niagara River was built in 1848 and designed as a suspension bridge for carriages and pedestrians. Five years later, the Great Western Railway reached Niagara. By 1855, a new bridge was constructed with an upper level for rail traffic and lower deck for pedestrians and carriages. The new bridge succeeded in fulfilling the needs or both pedestrians and railways. 

The Prosperity and the tourist.

The expansion of the railways and the amalgamation of close regional communities, Niagara Falls was formerly created in 1904. The three new hydroelectric generation facilities, inexpensive electricity, and exceptional rail transportation. Manufacturing started to grow. With such proximity to the U.S. markets, the city of Niagara Falls began to prosper. Following this expansion, came the beginning of a very lucrative tourism industry.

Meanwhile in The U.S.A…The early edition 

The first European to behold the falls’ majesty is the French priest, Father Louis Hennepin, during an expedition in 1678. Overwhelmed by the stature of the falls, he documented his findings, bringing Niagara Falls to western Europe’s attention for the first time. Perhaps an early travel blogger!

Expansionism

With the expansion of the railway system during the 1800s, Niagara Falls opened to scores of visitors. People from around the globe came to see this natural wonder of the world. Thus, making it a favourite destination for travellers.

During this time, one of the more prolific guests was Jerome Bonaparte, the younger brother of  Napoleon Bonaparte. In 1804, he and his American bride honeymooned at the Falls. Many believe that it was them that were responsible for making Niagara Falls the famed honeymoon tradition.

Industrialization vs Environmentalism

At the time of the industrial revolution, the beginning of the 19th century, Niagara’s pristine environment and the surrounding area began to deteriorate. Wealthy industrialists began to place factories and mills on the river to capture the enormous power it provided. By the late 1860’s concerned by the decrease of the river’s velocity, a small group of environmentalists, including landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, founded the Free Niagara Movement (F.N.M.). After more than 15 years of pressure, the (F.N.M.) won their battle. Ensuring the natural beauty of the land surrounding the Falls would be protected from commercial interests and exploitation. 

Niagara Falls Canada-Presently. A tale of two falls.

It will only take a short walk along Lundy’s lane to show you the direction that modern Niagara falls as chosen to take. I doubt it was even a conscious decision. A series of nudges has taken it to its full lustre. A “Las Vegas-style strip”- full of Museums and American chain food restaurants at varying degrees of culinary acceptance.

 It is surrounded by hotels for the weary to rest their bones after a day’s worth of attractions. The crown jewel, like most tourist environments, is the casino. Here there is Fallsview, an exceptional arcade that does the same as many other places—created to make your wallet a few dollars lighter. Gambling is a choice; the odds of you breaking even are slim at best, but you’re an adult.

Le Cuisine

There is no mistaking it, Niagara Falls is here for you to have a great time and a fast time. The restaurants on the strip are traditional fast food dressed up slightly- you may tip this way. If you are looking for something more palatable, there are still a few delicious offerings. Such as A.G. Inspired Cuisine or the Brasa Brazilian Steakhouse. Short of that, your hotel or Fallsview Casino would be another ideal choice.  You will pay a premium for this experience. If you are looking for something excellent and accessible, try the Antica Pizzeria and Ristorante.

Attractions. Where do we start.

If you like a “spooky museum” or a carnival atmosphere, Niagara Falls will have something for everyone’s inclination. From “Ripley believe it or not,” to “Louis Tussaud’s waxworks,” these are all places to be entertained and perhaps frightened. From Horse racing to Axe throwing and all spots in between, you will be hard-pressed not to find something that will captivate you. There is so much that you can do in Niagara Falls. At last count, there were  47 attractions. Here you and your family can become wholly immersed for the entire day. 

All night to get lucky

Many of the large chain hotels are represented here, “The W,” “The Marriott,” “Holiday Inn,” and “Best Western,” etc.. What is missing are many of the hotels/motels that made Niagara falls famous for Honeymooners. Gone are the motels with the heart-shaped beds with mirrored ceilings-although tacky, were synonymous with Niagara’s newlywed experience. The homogenous corporations have now replaced them. Even though the quality is good, but the experience is repetitive.

As with any excellent entertainment capital, the casino is the location that can keep the night going until sun up- if lady luck is on your side. With a complete gambling game schedule, Fallsview Casino and Resort has games to delight every gambler’s passion or addiction. Please gamble responsibly.

The Falls

Last but certainly not least, “The Falls.” It has brought you here, so try not to miss it. An unparalleled majestic roaring wondering can be a once of a lifetime experience. Try to imagine its earliest beginnings and how far it has come along the evolutionary scale.

Niagara Falls U.S.A.-or U.S.A. Today 

Today the Niagara Falls area is home to Niagara Falls State Park. With a mandate to preserve the surrounding region for generations. As you walk along the riverside and the nicely manicured gardens, you find very few similarities to the cousins across the river. Yes, there are attractions, restaurants and the ever-present casino. Yet, poised in a different direction. A tale of two Falls.

Hungry

For more of the faster food fare,  you will find some of your more conventional noshing options. “The Hard Rock Cafe,” “The Rainforest Cafe,” and others such as “TGIF” ( Thank God it is Friday or Fridays) all are very acceptable and are all theme-based. If you are interested in dining closer to the park, there are a few exciting options. Zaika Indian cuisine and Savor are both recognized as two of the district’s top restaurants. Donatello’s has been a crowd favourite for exceptional food for the budget-conscious.  

Oh What to do.

It would be impractical for Niagara Falls, New York, to rival their cross-river neighbours for attractions. Instead the focus has been on the more serene environmental pageantry of the falls. However, they are not without them. These include the Cave of the Wind that will take you behind the Bridal Veil Falls. Here you can feel the thunder of the falls as it cascades around you. The very popular Maid of the mist will shuttle you into the base of the falls, albeit a safe distance from the torrents of water. “Prospect point” with its observation tower that leans out over the river- an extraordinary perspective. 

Other points of interest are the Niagara Falls Underground Railway Heritage centre and Aquarium Niagara. For those that do not mind a quick drive, Lewiston’s Artspark is a spectacular concert and arts venue. As you can see, there are still many attractions to fill your day in Niagara Falls, New York.

Dealers Choice

Like so many locations that have built their identity around tourism these days, you will find the obligatory casino. Here you will find the Seneca Niagara Casino and hotel. It touts itself as the largest hotel in New York state outside of Manhattan. Like many hotels in the area, it fills a niche for locals and American tourists who do not want to cross the border into Canada. Like Fallsview, the amenities are of the highest standards and will transport you into a sense of luxury. As always, gamble responsibly.

Closer together

As you can ascertain, each side of the falls started from the same humble beginning. The Niagara River separates two different cultures. Here is where the saga takes a unique and somewhat unpredictable turn. The Canadian side has become a Walt Disney/ Las Vegas fun land for both young and old. Here the day never ends. Conversely, in the U.S., they recognized the importance of protecting the environment and have taken an “almost Canadian” approach to ecology. They adopted and preserved this natural wonder. Ironic really. 

Interesting, but of no real consequence. Combining the Niagara region and the Falls allows for extensive exploration. May it be the roar of the falls, a street Elvis or placing a few dollars down on a roll of a dice. This tale of two falls offers something for everyone. 

A tale of Two falls 

The Niagara Falls region has gone through many changes over the last century and will continue to evolve as a premier an attraction for years to come. Have you recently attended the falls or the Niagara region? If so, please let us know your thoughts in the comment area below. We love to share your opinion with our many readers. Have you thought of taking a trip to the falls and not sure where to start? Perhaps we can help. Leave a comment, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Please note: At the time of this publication, COVID 19 pandemic restrictions are in place. The border crossings are suspended. Please contact your local authorities for more information. Some of the casinos and attractions may not be available. Please follow the links provided and contact the appropriate source(s) for the most updated information. Your safety is our priority.

As always, it is our privilege to help you with your next adventure.

Your Vacation, Your Escape.

VTE