Ten Ways to Spend an Evening in Niagara Falls

Niagara’s long been known for having a vibrant nightlife to accompany its daytime activities. If you’re unsure about where to start in filling your evenings while in Niagara Falls (outside of viewing the Falls), the following tips can help guide your evening options.

Ten Evening Activities in Niagara Falls

  1. A show at the Greg Frewin Magic Theatre. Frewin is one of the best in the business and his theatre always has a great itinerary lined up.
  2. Catch a dinner theatre show. Oh Canada Eh? as one example is the town’s longest running dinner musical venue and features outsiders stereotypical view of Canadians through humour.Dinner Theatre logo
  3. For those into dancing, popular evening dance clubs include path of top picks like Dragonfly and Club Mardi Gras.
  4. During selection spring and summer dates, take a ride on a Hornblower night time cruise. The after-dark night trips have great ambience, and you might be lucky enough to catch a fireworks display from the water. Visit Magnificent Tours of Niagara for more info
  5. Dinner at Milestones on the Falls Restaurant. Great food with a great view is a combination that often makes for a great evening. Check out Milestones on the Falls Restaurant
    Milestones Dinner Menu
  6. Take a stroll through Clifton Hill after dark. This family-friendly hub may close some of its attractions after sunset but a few options, such as mini-golf and the giant Sky Wheel (Ferris wheel).
  7. Head to Niagara-on-the-Lake for dinner followed by one of the evening shows as part of the town’s Shaw Festival calendar.
  8. Area restaurants and bars have late evening hours, particularly on weekends. Visit a few of the select bars near the Fallsview Casino or head down to our Lobby Lounge Bar for late night drinks and snacks.

    Fallsview Casino June Fallsview Casino June

  9. Casinos are always the hub of a vibrant night life, and Niagara is no exception. Fallsview is the biggest game in town, but there’s plenty to do at Casino Niagara as well.
  10. Season opportunities are also worth checking out. For the winter season, the Winter Festival of Lights adds a vibrant night-time festive air to the town in line with free concerts and performances in Queen Victoria Park.

What is the difference between Hornblower and the Maid of the Mist

Who doesn’t come to Niagara and see the falls? And there are so many ways to do that – observation decks along the riverbank, tours through the caves behind the falls, looking out from atop the falls on Goat Island and a breathtaking Fallsview Room.

One of the most popular ways to get up close and personal to the waterfalls is by experiencing a cruise right up next to the Falls.

Historic Maid of the Mist

The name most commonly associated with that thrill is the Maid of the Mist – a name associated with the ferries shooting up and down the river since 1846. ‘Iconic’ is a word that has lost most of its splendour from overuse, but the Maid of the Mist is synonymous with Niagara River ferries in a way that really does make it iconic.

A lot of people visiting the Canadian side of Niagara Falls ask after the Maid of the Mist, and there can be a bit of confusion on what’s ‘happened’ to the Maid ferries. They still run, of course, but since 2013 the port of call for the Maid of the Mist ferries has been from the United States only.

Enter Hornblower Cruises

This brings us to the new kid on the block—Niagara Hornblower Cruises. Hornblower cruise ships are the currently chartered ferry line for the tours that leave from the Canadian side of the border. Similar service, a different moniker with newer boats, a hipper vibe and an upgrading launching pavilion.

Both cruise ships will take you to the rim of Niagara Falls. So if you’re in Canadian Niagara Falls, ask after the Hornblower – and you’ll get the same great experience arriving at the cusp of the Horseshoe Falls just as every ferry on the river has always provided.

If you’re staying in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, book a trip aboard Hornblower Cruises and stay at the closest hotel to The Brink of Niagara Falls, the Marriott on the Falls. For more information on cruises, hotels, things to do and great rates, visit our homepage: Marriott on the Falls Niagara Falls Hotel.


What to pack for a Summer Niagara Falls Vacation

Are you heading to Niagara Falls this summer? Ensure that you pack well for the trip to have a great vacation. Essentials like travel documents are a must but it’s as important to pack for the weather. Here are some pointers…

Summer in Niagara Falls can be relatively hot. The average temperatures range from 23 to 28 degrees Celsius. Some days, you might witness occasional showers as well. But overall, it is sunny with a slight dip in night-time temperatures. Summer is a good time to see the falls as they will gush down in all their glory and it is also the time for outdoor fun. So ensure that you pack wisely from clothes and accessories to gadgets and medicines.

Summer Clothes

Pack cottons, linen and other light-weight fabrics. Casual is the way to go. T-shirts, shirts, shorts, pants and jeans are all great options for men. Similarly, women can opt for casual tops including sleeveless and tank tops, flowy dresses, capris, shorts, a couple of long-sleeved shirts/tops, trousers and denims. Both men and women should bring along a couple of formal clothes–pants, blazers, formal top, evening dress, etc., in case you have to dress up or go for a formal occasion. Bring along swimwear if you intend to hit the pool. Don’t forget to pack a sweater or a light jacket as it gets cooler at night. It’s advisable to avoid colours such as black as it will absorb more heat during the daytime.

suitcase

Do remember to pack carefully for children by including light clothing as well as warm layers and a couple of toys/books to keep them occupied.

Summer Accessories

It’s recommended to carry the right kind of accessories. Footwear is very important so carry comfortable walking/hiking shoes and flip-flops or sandals. If they are water-resistant, it’s even better. Women can carry a few pieces of jewellery to highlight their wardrobe. Carry backpacks, sling bags or other comfortable carry bags when you explore the outdoors. Hats and caps are useful in blocking the rays of the sun while a good pair of sunglasses protects your eyes from the glaring sunlight. An umbrella is very handy for both the sun and the rain. A camera, preferably one that is water resistant, is recommended to capture all the magic moments in the mist of Niagara Falls.

You are now ready to enjoy your summer vacation in Niagara Falls!

Stay at the World Class, 4-Star Marriott on the Falls Hotel. Book directly with the hotel for Best Rates and valuable add-ons that can’t be found elsewhere.

Niagara Falls Hotel Packages


How Many Casinos are in Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is home to natural wonders, luxury hotels, spacious parklands, and a collection of Casinos. How many Casinos? Well, the answer is….

There are Three Casinos in Niagara Falls, two in Ontario, Canada and one in New York, USA, consisting of over 440,000 square feet of gaming space.

Rest assured that the gaming floor isn’t made up of unused space; quite the contrary– There are over 8000 slot machines, 250 gaming tables, 35 poker tables and 3 sportsbooks.

All three Casinos, as shown in our above image are within close, walking proximity to each other.

Each Casino has their own unique traits, gaming floors, and gambling options.

Niagara Falls Canada Casinos

Casino Niagara

casino_niagara

Casino Niagara is the oldest of the three Casinos, originally opened in 1996. The Casino is located near the Clifton Hill District of Niagara, and is located in a building. Highlights include:

  • 1300+ Slot Machines
  • 40+ Tables
  • Poker Room
  • Variety of Tournaments, including Poker, Slot & Blackjack.

Casino Niagara features access to 12 restaurants, including four distinct restaurants within the Casino gaming floor. The property also has a 2nd floor stage that features live music every Friday and Saturday night throughout the year.

Casino Niagara – 5705 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6T3

Fallsview Casino

Fallsview Casino June 2015

After the success of the Casino Niagara property, the Fallsview Casino was opened in 2004. Highlights include:

  • 200,000 square feet gaming space
  • 3000+ slot machines
  • 100+ gaming tables
  • Large Poker Room that includes WSOP events

The Casino property, known as the Fallsview Casino Resort, features a number of on-site amenities including nightclubs, two concert venues, and a shopping mall including over 30 retail shops and 15 restaurants. The Fallsview Casino has the most modern, upscale feel amongst all Casino’s in the Niagara Area and is the perfect location for a stylish night on the town.

Fallsview Casino, 6380 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 7X5

Niagara Falls American Casinos

Seneca Niagara Casino

seneca-casino

Seneca Niagara opened on New Year’s Eve 2002 and is located on the American side of the border, roughly an easy five-minute walk from the Peace Bridge US/Canadian border crossing.

This is the only Niagara area Casino that offers a smoking section. The Casino has a large gaming floor, a non-smoking section, high ceilings, and comped/free alcohol for those playing slots or table games. The large Casino features:

  • 2500+ Slot Machines
  • 100+ Gaming Tables
  • Two Large Entertainment/Concert Venues
  • Poker Room
  • Free Parking with Play

Those wishing to visit the Casino from Canada can simply walk across the Peace Bridge border, provided that they have a valid passport.

Seneca Niagara Casino, 310 4th St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303, United States

Within Walking Distance to all Three Casinos

The Marriott on the Falls is within close walking proximity of all three hotels, including just a short three-minute walk to the Fallsview Casino. Learn more about our hotel, nearby Casinos and valuable add-on packages that can include Casino Free Play, breakfast buffets and more. For more info visit:

Marriott on the Falls Niagara Falls Hotel Packages


Top 10 Niagara Falls March Break Attractions

Here are the Top 10 Niagara Falls March Break Attractions for 2015.

1 Niagara Falls in particular, the relatively small township is filled with family fun and activities as well as providing access points for more relaxing jaunts into the countryside or the various national parks in the Niagara area. The best place to start is

Clifton Hill District is a major entertainment centre for Niagara Falls families. And it offers a smorgasbord of variety to fill the days with various activities. Want a free-flowing arcade environment?

Adventure City has you covered. It’s both captivating and can be a fun challenge for casual gamers, with mini-golf, bumper cars and arcade games aplenty. Want something more traditional?

Niagara Skywheel towers over the rest of Clifton Hill; a 175-foot tall Ferris wheel that offers great views of Niagara.

The best thing about Clifton Hill days out is that no planning is required – but it’s not the only place in Niagara to be. For nature-lovers, the ice is still thawing around the falls under the warm sun, meaning that the beautiful formations of winter are sometimes still viewable alongside the blooming floral displays. Heading downriver to check out

Botanical Gardens (weather pending),

Niagara Glen Nature Preserve. The…

Butterfly Conservatory is a popular hotspot, as is Niagara Falls

When the major centres are covered, there’s still a lot to see and do throughout Niagara. Feed exotic parrots at the #8 Bird Kingdom near Rainbow Bridge.

9 See one of the world’s most decorated magicians perform at the Greg Frewin Theatre .

10 Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, for an amazing indoor waterpark experience– featuring three acres of pools, hot springs and wild slides.

Before travelling to Niagara for March Break, do some fresh research on what hotel offers or activity passes are running for the holidays. Major hotels like the Marriott on the Falls often have value packs for incoming families, and pre-arranging fun passes for attractions near Clifton Hill at Adventure City and other areas are highly recommended. Whatever the collective preferences are, a family spending their break in Niagara Falls is always going to be spoilt for options.

There you have it. You’re family is all set to fun this March Break in Niagara Falls!

While in Niagara Falls, stay at the 4-star,World Class Hotel: Marriott on the Falls Niagara Falls Hotel .


What to Pack for a Niagara Falls Winter Vacation

Are you planning a winter trip to Niagara Falls? Hotel bookings, list of places to travel in and around Niagara Falls, maps and tourist books are all essential. However, so is packing for a winter in Niagara Falls. There are a few essentially items you’ll need for your vacation.

Packing for the Weather

Niagara Falls can get very cold in winters. The average maximum temperatures during peak winter range from 2 to -0.9 °Celsius while the minimum temperatures fluctuate between -4.5 to -8.2 °Celsius. So even daytime temperatures are low and with the wind blowing, you can really feel the chill. Despite this, winter trips to Niagara can be great fun. Usually, there is moderate snowfall and you can easily walk around as the snowfall doesn’t hinder your progress. The whole place gets transformed into a winter wonderland. There are occasional snowstorms but these are part of winters here.

Below is a complete ‘what to pack list’. This is a full scale list. Don’t be scared off; you can still enjoy a trip to Niagara Falls with only some of these items. But it’s a good idea to bring most. Without further ado, here are some all-important packing tips:

  • First, make sure that you pack enough warm clothes. Winter coats, waterproof jackets, long sleeved outfits and trousers are recommended. Try to ensure that all clothing is warm and light. As for a bulky coat, you can wear it while you travel in the plane or car instead of packing it in the suitcase.
  • Remember to dress in layers once when you head out. A top or shirt should be your first layer. Avoid cottons. Next should be a layer of fleece in the form of a sweater and finally, wrap yourself in a jacket. Don’t carry too many tops or shirts. Repeat your clothes as they will be covered by a jacket anyway.
  • Accessories are very important. So do pack scarves, mufflers, gloves, toques, sunglasses and socks – basically things that will protect your head, face, ears, neck, hands and feet. Leather gloves with fleece covering inside or water-resistant gloves are great for flexibility and protection from the cold.
  • Good footwear is recommended. Winter boots are your best bet, as is anything with traction. A good pair of socks also helps to keep your feet warm.
  • Skin-care essentials are a must as skin should be kept moisturized. Pack body and face creams and carry a lip balm or moisturizer. Don’t forget your sunscreen.
  • Families travelling with children need to ensure that they carry all essentials to protect their child against the winter.
  • Once you reach town and decide to go sightseeing, don’t forget to have a cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate from our on-site Starbucks to help keep you warm before you head out.

There you have it. You’re now are all set to face the winter and have a fun trip to Niagara Falls!

While in Niagara Falls, stay at the 4-star,World Class Hotel: Marriott on the Falls Niagara Falls Hotel .


Rate of Erosion of Niagara Falls

Undoubtedly, Niagara Falls is one of the greatest wonders of nature. In some circles there is a concern among environmentalists about the rate of erosion of the falls located across Canada and the USA. However, the rate of erosion has slowed over the past fifty years.

Erosion that occurred in the past has led to the present-day location of the falls with the Horseshoe Falls in Canada and the American and Bridal Veil Falls in the USA. Historically, the rate of erosion of the falls has been around 3 feet per year. During the last 12,300 years, it has eroded 11.4 kms. The Niagara Falls has retreated from Lake Ontario towards Lake Erie in the last 200 years at a yearly rate of 5 feet. However, since 1942, the rate of erosion has reduced. Due to remedial efforts, the current erosion rate has come down to about 1 foot per year.

Causes of Niagara Falls Erosion

  • As a result of the rush and flow of water, weak pieces of rock are broken and carried away.
  • Due to the cold weather in this part of the world, the constant freezing and thawing of the rocks lead to breakage.
  • Rock falls which happen on and off weaken rock layers.
  • Minerals which strengthen the rocks are also washed away when water lashes against the fissures in the rocks.

Around 11,000 years ago, the location of the Niagara Falls lay between present-day Queenston, Ontario and Lewiston, New York. Since then, the falls have retreated southward due to erosion leading to its present location. One of the reasons for the decline in the rate of erosion today is due to its current location.

Reasons for Reduced Erosion

  • The water currently flows over limestone cap rock which is far more resistant to erosion than other rocks. Many years into the future, when the falls will reach a softer layer of rock, the rate of erosion will increase once again.
  • The rate of water-flow down the falls has decreased due to the development of hydroelectric generation plants. These have been created through water diversion along the Niagara River’s shoreline. Reduced water flow has led to slower erosion.
  • Engineers are also working on a regular basis to reduce the rate of erosion through various remedial measures like repairing faults and constructing underwater weirs.

The Future of Niagara Falls

The rate of erosion is expected to come down even further due to environmental efforts. Some estimates suggest that it could be reduced to only 1 foot in 10 years. However, one can never predict the future and climate change will play a key role in deciding the future of the falls. A major rock fall too could alter the erosion of the falls. There are some scientists who speculate that the American Falls could dry up in 2000 years even though it has a slow rate of erosion. All things considered, even at the reduced rate of erosion, the Niagara Falls may no longer exist in around 50,000 years from now.

In short, Niagara Falls won’t be eroding away any time soon. See this phenomenon in all of it’s natural splendour by booking a visit to Niagara Falls today.

Stay at the 4-star,World Class Hotel: Marriott on the Falls Niagara Falls Hotel .


Three Best Locations to Take Photos in Niagara Falls

The idea of ‘best’ locations can be a matter of some conjecture, but luckily areas such as Niagara Falls offer so much variety for top-tier photo opportunities that there aren’t any losers in the process.

Horseshoe Falls

The first is one everyone can agree on – alongside the Falls themselves. There are actually many different vantage points, depending on the desired angle. The Table Rock Welcome Centre is one of the most accessible and takes tourists right up to the edge of the falls. Or the ferries can carry photographers right up to the cascading water for the perfect background to a ‘wish you were here!’ pose.

Skylon Tower

Skylon Tower

Another contender is the Skylon Tower. Not necessarily photos of the tower itself – although it is a distinct and attractive talking point for any photo background – but rather the views its observation decking allows of the falls and the surrounding region. With your vantage point 775 feet above the falls, all of Niagara is your background and your focus. The deck of Skylon Tower is considered the best observation point in Canada’s half of Niagara Falls and for good reason.

Queen Victoria Park

QVC

A final pick for a top three might be Queen Victoria Park. This is an option that always provide local character and impressive floral arrangements to take a visual record of, but the location becomes a more dynamic photographers’ study when one of the various festivals or shows that use Victoria Park as a nesting spot kicks off. The Festival of Lights decorates the entire park and leads up to one of the biggest New Year’s celebrations in North America – a cornucopia for any camera adjusted for night shots.

* Bonus Selection: Fallsview Room at the Marriott on the Falls

Marriott on the Falls Fallsview Exterior Room View

No explanation is needed. Our Fallsview Rooms offer a spectacular look at the Horseshoe Falls

There are plenty of runners up – nature enthusiasts might want to travel just north of Niagara Falls for the botanic gardens and the butterfly conservatory, or stay within Niagara and track down the award-winning Bird Kingdom – or travel inland and find something out of the way but deserving attention. But even within Niagara itself, take away the three & bonus locations listed above and there’s still plenty to see and do within Niagara Falls, and plenty of ideal opportunities to whip out the camera and record some proud moments.

Take a photo from all of these great locations by staying at the 4-star,World Class Marriott on the Falls Niagara Falls Hotel  during your next Niagara Falls Vacation.


Where Does the Water Going Over Niagara Falls Come From?

3,160 tons of water flows over the Niagara Falls waterfalls every second, falling at 32 feet per second and being capable of producing over 4 million kilowatts of electricity. There can be no doubt in our minds that Niagara Falls is extremely powerful! However, where exactly does the water going over Niagara Falls come from? We take a look at the source of all this water, and power, along with some interesting facts.

Starting Point

The water starts off in North America, coming from streams and rivers that empty into 5 out of the 6 Great Lakes; Michigan, Superior, Huron, St. Clair and Erie. These lakes drain a large part of North America, flowing down through the Great Lakes basin from West to East. The water makes its way to Niagara River, which interestingly flows north!

Down the Falls

From the Niagara River, the water passes over the falls, before flowing around 23km (14 miles) north into the final of the Great Lakes; Lake Ontario. From here there is yet another river, the St. Lawrence, and then it’s final resting place in the form of the Atlantic Ocean. If you were to follow the flow of water from its starting point in Lake Michigan, all the way to the end, it would take at least 15 hours. That’s quite some journey!

Interesting Facts about the Water Going Over Niagara Falls

  • The Great Lakes (Michigan, Superior, Huron, St. Clair, Erie and Ontario) make up the World’s largest freshwater system at around 18% of our entire supply!
  • The entire volume of water in those lakes is enough to cover the whole of North America in about 3.5ft (1 meter) of water.
  • These lakes rely heavily on replenishment from sources such as rain, snow, hail and even groundwater.
  • However, the rest of what is contained in the Great Lakes is “fossil water”, which comes from the last ice age. That means that a lot of the water going over Niagara Falls has a fair amount of history!
  • The Niagara River is actually just a connecting channel, keeping Lake Erie and Ontario supplied with water.
  • Water going over the Falls can reach an impressive 109km/h (68mph).

The journey that this water takes, just to make it over Niagara Falls and into the Atlantic Ocean, is an impressive one. The next time you visit the falls, take a moment to think about how far each drop of water has come before it tumbles and crashes down into the pool below. It makes the experience just that little bit more exciting!

Experience the journey water takes close up and personally by visiting Niagara Falls. Stay at the 4-star,World Class Marriott on the Falls Niagara Falls Hotel


Top 5 Niagara Falls Movies

The beauty of Niagara Falls has lured in many film directors, all keen to use this stunning backdrop in one of their films. In fact, dozens of directors have used Niagara Falls at least in some part during their film. Here are some of the most impressive films featuring Niagara Falls, have you seen them all?

Without further ado, in chronological order, here are the Top 5 Niagara Falls Movies

Niagara – 1953

This is quite possibly the most well-known film to feature Niagara Falls, probably because of it’s name. Starring Marilyn Monroe, Joseph Cotten and Jean Peters, this was one of the first thriller noir films to be shot in Technicolor. It was also the movie that catapulted Miss Monroe into stardom before she filmed big hits such as Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

Canadian Bacon – 1995

Canadian-bacon

This comedy film takes a satirical look at the relationship between Canada and America, along the border; specifically the border of Niagara! Much of the movie was filmed at the Falls and features a hockey game played in Ontario, too. John Candy plays the lead role in the movie, as Sheriff Bud Boomer, the Sheriff of Niagara County.

The Long Kiss Goodnight – 1996

Although this film doesn’t feature a lot of Niagara, there is a key scene involving a chemical bomb in downtown Niagara Falls; situated in New York. This movie was a big success due to the stars of the show, Geena Davis, and Samuel L. Jackson. If you want to see some thrilling action and a glimpse of Niagara, then this is the film for you.

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End – 2007

pirates-Caribbean-worlds-end

This list would not be complete without one of the biggest movie blockbusters of the 21st century, featuring a wide range of famous actors and actresses. The third film is the Pirates of the Caribbean series may not be set in Niagara, but there is an awe-inspiring scene set at the Falls. If you haven’t seen it we won’t ruin it for you, but if you have then go back and watch out for that scene again!

Camille – 2008

The plot of this movie starts off very similar to the 1953 film, Niagara; with a young couple taking their honeymoon in Niagara Falls. James Franco and Sienna Miller play a couple who you think are loved up, yet Franco’s character is really using Miller to escape Canada. After a terrible motorbike accident on the way, things take a dark yet strangely romantic turn. The final scene of this film features some breathtaking views of the falls.

These are just some of the many movies that have been filmed at, or in some part featured, Niagara Falls. If you’re planning a trip to Niagara then make sure you have seen them all, to brush up on your movie and Falls trivia.

To visit many of the sites shot or recreated in the top 5 Niagara Falls Movies, visit the World Class Marriott on the Falls Niagara Falls Hotel