Niagara Falls - The Full Experience

Since we were after all vacationing at Niagara Falls, we decided to devote day one all to it. Our little hotel was two blocks (down a hill - which you then have to walk back up!) from the falls. After sleeping in a bit (hello jet lag) we headed towards the sound of rushing water. What we first saw was breathtaking! But it wasn't even the official "Falls" yet! Since I had not been there before I was unaware that there are two sections to Niagara Falls. The is the Horseshoe on the Canadian side bathed in a constant mist and then the American side which includes Bridal Veil Falls. What we first saw was the American side and then turning to the right was the Horseshoe. The mist from the Horseshoe makes it feel like it is raining when you are in the path the wind takes it. We made our way to the tourist headquarters to grab some lunch and cash in our Adventure Passes which gave us entrance to four of the biggest attractions at The Falls. We would then spend the rest of the day getting into ponchos no less that three times as we explored all The Falls had to offer. First was an interactive "ride/film" showing how the falls were "made." Then it was down an elevator and through some tunnels for a look behind the falls - the power and speed of the water as it tumbles down is amazing!

Our last venture was to take a trip on the famous Maid of the Mist which takes all it's rides right up to the base of the falls for a first hand look and feel for all the power and glory they have to offer.After church we even walked back down to check out the "view" at night. Every night they have different and ever-changed colored lights that shine on both parts of The Falls. My pictures don't exactly do it justice, but it is quite a sight! We walked a ton that day, loved all our different ponchos and felt it a triumph for our first real day of vacationing.