Niagara Falls vacation: a natural wonder - and so much more

Posted: Tuesday, November 27, 2012 12:00 am | Updated: 3:03 am, Tue Jan 15, 2013.

Even when compared to the many astounding sights the natural world has to offer, Niagara Falls stands out for its spectacular power and beauty. In fact, it’s counted among the seven natural wonders of the world, along with Mount Everest, the Grand Canyon and more. For travelers, a visit is, quite simply, an essential part of any globetrotter’s checklist. While their fame might mean taking them for granted, a Niagara Falls vacation will show you the wonder behind their notoriety.

Niagara Falls is actually made up of three falls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, all of which are found along the U.S./Canada border. The width of the falls, combined with their power – an average of 4 million cubic feet of water falls over the crest every minute – make them remarkable among the waterfalls of the world. While standing at the rim of the falls provides an important perspective, a quintessential Niagara Falls vacation experience is getting up close and personal on a Maid of the Mist boat ride. Prepare to get a little – or very – wet as the boat approaches the falls and takes you into the mist and spray.