Niagara Falls has some competition: Niagara Falls. From the Canadian side, you can see an uninterrupted view of the falls, but on the American side you can get in the thick of it. Whether it's viewing the natural wonder itself or enjoying the other attractions the city has to offer, Niagara Falls, USA is much more than just a boat ride to a waterfall.
Cave of the Winds
Everyone's familiar with Maid of the Mist, if not just because of Jim and Pam's wedding on "The Office," but not everyone knows that the best way to get face to face with the massive waterfall is actually Cave of the Winds. Visitors can ride an elevator down into Niagara Gorge where a boardwalk leads mere feet away from the foot of the falls. For the more adventurous, the Hurricane Deck is the quickest way to get drenched and snap an Insta-worthy selfie. Nestled into America's oldest state park, there's no better way to enjoy the natural wonder that is Niagara Falls.
Savor: Niagara Falls Culinary Institute
For the foodie, Savor is a must-visit. Located in a repurposed shopping mall, the restaurant offers students that attend the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute the opportunity to show off their talents to guests. It sources locally grown products to create a menu that's updated seasonally, giving students the opportunity to work with fresh ingredients. They also locally produce wine, which is sold in their Wine Boutique.
Old Fort Niagara
For a history nerd, it doesn't get much better than Old Fort Niagara. From the 18th century through the War of 1812, it was vital because it controlled access to the Great Lakes and the westward route to the Midwest. During its long history, it was occupied by Native Americans, the French, the British and even used by the U.S. Army during both World Wars and the Korean War. Today its military history is over, but offers tours, educational programs and on-site trade demonstrates with historical accuracy.
Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride
Located just 30 minutes from Niagara Falls, Lockport offers a unique glimpse into the history of the Niagara Falls/Buffalo area since the Industrial Revolution. A guided tour takes you from looking at the "Flight of Five" Erie Canal locks that were constructed in 1838 to down below ground for a boat ride through tunnels made my miners over a century ago. The tunnel leads to the Hydraulic tunnel that fed water to three different industries. It's a rare glimpse into the fortitude it took but build the Erie Canal.
Beef on Weck
Beef on weck is a delicacy in Western New York. It's a sandwich that consists of roast beef on a kummelweck roll that has some sketchy origins. Today, it's served with dip au jus and topped with horseradish. Make sure to order it at any restaurant during your stay in the Buffalo/Niagara Falls area.
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