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Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada


A view from our suite at the Hilton Hotel and Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview (2010). We stayed in a luxurious two-room tower king suite (Jacuzzi/Fireplace) in the north tower. I've traveled a fair amount in my life and I can honestly say that this was one of the absolute finest establishments I have ever stayed. Breath taking views, unbeatable service and great central location. This photo was shot from our suite on the corner of Fallsview Blvd looking down Murray Street toward the American Falls. That is the Skylon Tower in the background to the left.  I have been to Niagara Falls at least a half dozen times in my life and I strongly recommend staying the night on the Canadian side as the best view and atmosphere is in the evening when the falls are lit up. The bottom right hand corner of photo is the enormous Fallsview Casino Resort. I'm not much of a gambler. I think that you can get a better return on your money throwing it over the falls, but that's just my opinion:)

While you are on the Canadian side, don't forget to check out the 99 acre Niagara Parks Botanical Garden and Butterfly Conservatory.  I also highly recommend dining at the Skylon Tower. You will want to get your reservations early during your visit as it is always a packed house. You won't be disappointed with the revolving dining room's spectacular 360ยบ view, service or the cuisine. The American side offers many wonderful views as well, like Goat Island, Three Sisters Island and the Bridal Veil Falls but should be enjoyed when you have good sneakers, the energy for a long walk and good weather in the daytime hours.  

I do not recommend crossing the border at Rainbow Bridge unless you have a full tank of gas, enjoy long lines and waiting! Lots of waiting! I have been stuck on the bridge for more than 2 hours at a time. If you just want the thrill of crossing the Rainbow Bridge for its breathtaking views of the falls, your best bet is to walk or ride a bike (pedestrian and bicycle traffic is allowed). 

Your best bet for crossing into Canada  is to drive 5-1/2 miles north to the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge. Skip the Whirlpool Bridge as it is ONLY for NEXUS Program cardholders (unless of course you happen to hold a Nexus Card, to my knowledge, you cannot buy a NEXUS card during your visit - It's more rigorous than applying for a passport. The application process includes a background check, an "in-person" interview and mugshots). 

6 comments:

  1. Denise,

    Nice picture. I sure hope we are going to see some pics of the falls.

    Love,
    Mom

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    1. That little, fuzzy, white spot just right of center is the American Falls! I honestly do not have another photo of the falls that Me or someone else isn't blocking the view! I guess I will just have to go back!

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  2. Sue and I stayed on the Canadian side of the Falls when we were there a couple of years ago. We were so close to the Falls that they were outside our window. Every time we got up during the night, we stood in rapt fascination at the window looking down. The colours kept changing through the night. Such a memory. Thanks for bringing the memory back.

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    1. I'm glad u liked it! Yes, yes - you are so right! There are some amazing hotels right along the falls! I once had a balcony room at the Sheraton overlooking the Horseshoe Falls that had me feeling like a Maid of the Mist! I loved that room so much, i stayed in the same room years later!

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  3. That's the perfect picture. It has great balance and color...that was a fun vacation. Remember the car window getting stuck down during the rain storm.

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