Niagara Falls, USA has always been on my bucket list of things to do in my lifetime, so, when I was offered the chance to travel there with three other Macaroni Kid publishers, I had to jump on the chance. I can honestly say I had no idea how much family friendly historic adventures Niagara Falls, USA has to offer. Plus, they offer a free seasonal shuttle stopping at 12 different locations over 14 miles, running from the “Falls to the Fort” and a Niagara Falls Discovery Pass with discounted rates to six different activities making it very affordable for families to visit. I can’t wait to bring my husband and kids along with me next time.
Here are my top five spots that I was able to explore while on my summer getaway:
1. Niagara Falls Illuminated & Fireworks at Prospect Point in Niagara Falls State Park: The illumination of the falls has been occurring since 1925 in Niagara Falls State Park, which is the oldest state park in the USA. I loved how they used different colors to illuminate the falls, especially the red, white and blue. They even have pastel colors. Monday through Friday (seasonal) they have a fireworks show at 10pm over the illuminated Niagara Falls.
2. Old Fort Niagara: Buildings date back to 1726, and along with costumed re-enactors, it gives you the feeling that you are back in the 1700s to 1800s. The re-enactors will teach you what life was like for them during that time era and you will learn all about the War of 1812 occurring at that very location. I can honestly say it was the best history lesson I have ever received. The museum even is home to the original 1812 Garrison Flag. I also loved how Old Fort Niagara is right up against Lake Ontario and you can look across the lake to see Canada. They also host different themed events throughout the year at Old Fort Niagara.
3. Cave of the Winds: The first thing you will do at Cave of the Winds is get fitted for sandals and given a yellow poncho. Next you will take the elevator 175 feet down into the Niagara Gorge, where you will exit and then walk up a bunch of wooden steps. These steps are rebuilt yearly to ensure safety. For those of you, who are brave enough, you can stand on the Hurricane Deck where you are only 20 feet from the Bridal Veil Falls. It is absolutely amazing to feel the power behind these falls. It is sure to be windy and wet! Adults and children of ages will love it.
4. NYPA Niagara Power Project – Power Vista: Loved the hands-on activities teaching you all about hydro-electricity and other STEM projects. We learned about Tesla vs. Edison by them debating whose invention was better through an interactive video. Visitors will get a power play card so they can play the different interactive games and it will gear the game towards their age group that they indicated on their personal power play card. They even have a 4D simulator, observation deck, and a hair-raising experience. Plus, there are employees in lab coats who will interact with the visitors to enhance their learning experience. And the favorite thing about all of this is that it is FREE to the public. Again, making Niagara Falls USA an affordable family destination!
5. Niagara Jet Adventures: I loved riding on the Class 5 rapids in the Niagara Jet Boats. The crew was very informative, trained, and even made it feel like a fun dance party on the boat with all of the music. It hardly felt like you had been riding on the boat for almost an hour. They do have enclosed seating so you will not get wet, or you can sit on the bench seating where you will get completely soaked. (Bring a full change of clothes if you decide to sit here) Guests must be at least 40 inches tall to ride.
Photo Credits: Niagara Jet Adventures
Some other highlights of the trip that I enjoyed were the Haystack at The Silo, Rainforest Café, Maid of the Mist, Lockport Cave and Underground Boat Ride, and eating Butterbeer Ice Cream at Lake Effect Ice Cream.
While I was in Niagara Falls, USA, I stayed at the Sheraton At The Falls. This hotel is super family friendly with their option of having family suites. Plus, they have TGIFridays, Starbucks and the Rainforest Café on site. For the adults, they have an enclosed walkway to the casino and a self-service hydrospa. Kids will love the arcade and the Reef Beach club and pool. The beach club area has not only a pool, but two hot tubs, a shark tank, and a coral reef lagoon viewing tank.
See you soon, Niagara Falls, USA!
Niagara Falls USA (niagarafallsusa.com)hosted the author for a three-day press trip. Accommodations and most meals and activities were complimentary. No other compensation was received in consideration of this article and all opinions are that of the writer.
