Museums, Restaurants and More in Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara, New York has four very different and exciting regions: river, lake, canal and the falls. Niagara Falls is one of the most interesting and amazing places in the country. It is so beautiful--a truly breath-taking place! There are hundreds of things to see and do while visiting the Falls: museums, helicopter rides, shopping, dining and even a casino!

My focus, however, is on Niagara Falls State Park. It is important to support our state and national parks because they provide a wealth of resources, both in entertainment and education. A trip to Niagara Falls is unforgettable. You can go there for a private and romantic weekend with your significant other or you can plan a trip for the whole family. Niagara Falls has something for everyone! Niagara Falls State Park boasts a number of attractions, some of which you should not leave without seeing!

The first is, of course, the Maid of the Mist Boat Tour. This half-hour long boat tour features both the American and Canadian Falls. This attraction only operates from mid-May until late October so be sure to visit during the warmer months. The cost of the Maid of the Mist is (from the American side) $12.50 for adults, $7.30 for children ages 6-12 and there is no charge for children 5 and under. The admission cost includes the elevator fee and a water-proof clothing. The last operating date for 2008 is October 24. Please visit the Maid of the Mist website (www.maidofthemist.com) for additional information.

For another great tour, ride the Niagara Scenic Trolley. This trolley follows a three-mile path through the park and has stops at many major attractions throughout the park. Use it to get around or stay on the trolley for the whole tour, while a ranger explains the history of Niagara Falls! The trolley is $2 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. This is an awesome experience at a very low cost! An added bonus is that the trolley tour is part of the Niagara Falls State Park's "Green Park Project," and runs on environmentally friendly natural gas!

Another thing you don't want to miss is the Cave of the Winds attraction. This takes you 175 feet to the base of the Bridal Veil Falls. Walking along the wooden stairs and decks, you can experience the exhilarating power of the Falls. Be sure to stop at the Hurricane Deck, which allows you to stand only feet from the falling water. There is an admission fee,which includes the fantastic experience led by a tour guide and a souvenir poncho and sandals. For additional information about cost and operating schedule, please call 716-278-1730.

Don't forget to visit the Observation Tower at Prospect Point. It is a glass-walled elevator that allows for a fantastic view of all three Falls. Visit the tower for a breath-taking view that includes rainbows in the mornings and a colored-light illumination of the Falls at night. In addition, the elevator descends to the base where you can buy tickets for the Maid of the Mist Tour.

If you get hungry, visit the Top of the Falls Restaurant on Goat Island. This regional American restaurant is home to one of the best views of Horseshoe Falls. The restaurant has tiered seating and two outdoor dining decks so that all diners can enjoy the spectacular view. The restaurant features a full menu of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, wraps and entrees. Entrees range from $10.95 for gourmet flat bread pizzas to $25.95 for Filet of Sirloin. This seasonal menu features organic products, for an added bonus. Be sure to call for reservations at 716-278-0340. For more information and the full menu visit the restaurant website at www.topofthefallsrestaurant.com.

Remember, this is only a sample of the things to see and do at Niagara Falls, New York. Be sure to plan a few extra days to visit the river, lake and canal regions for even more attractions. This is a great vacation spot for people of all ages and for families and couples alike. Visit www.niagarafallsstatepark.com for additional attractions and information and to plan your next vacation. Enjoy your visit!