You say Niagara Falls, and each of us can get a vision in our mind of the spectacular roaring, rushing waterfalls found in the northeast corner of North America. And we assume that when we visit the Canadian side of the Falls, there will be a bustling city there to greet us and provide us with all the ammenities we want.

But you’re in for a great time when you visit the Canadian city bearing the Falls’ name, Niagara Falls, in Ontario, because there is a whole host of things to see and do, in addition to visiting the Niagara Falls. In the 2001 Census, the population of Niagara Falls, Ontario was 78,815. It lies directly across the river from Niagara Falls, New York, and was incorporated on June 12, 1903.

You won’t be surprised to know that the heart of the city beats by the rising and falling of the Niagara Falls waterfalls on the Niagara River connecting Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. Niagara Falls, and the surrounding Niagara Region, has evolved and grown into one of the world’s foremost travel destinations.

Nearly 14 million visitors a year come to the area! So, in in order to increase the city's appeal as a vacation destination and prolong stay times, a major tourist area surrounding the Falls has been developed.

These attractions include viewing and observation based activities like the Maid of the Mist, Journey Behind the Falls and the Skylon Tower observation deck. As much of the land adjoined to the river is parkland run by the Niagara Parks Commission, many attractions are based on the local natural environment. Other entertainment venues include the Clifton Hill tourist area, and casinos like Casino Niagara and the Fallsview Casino. You’ll enjoy natural attractions like the Niagara Gorge, as well as seeing historic sites from the War of 1812.

There are differing opinions of which side is the best view of Niagara Falls. Some say the American side. Others say that the Canadian viewpoint is superior. The big waterfall can be accessed from both the Canadian and the American side, though the best view FACING the falls is entirely from the Canadian side; however, if you really want to be near the water itself, the New York Side is best.

That is a short walk over Goat Island. You’ll find that the Canadian side offers much more (in terms of other attractions) to the sightseer, while the New York side caters to those that are continuing their journey into the United States.

The War of 1812 between the United States and Britain played an important part in shaping the look and makeup of the city of Niagara Falls. Two of the most significant battles from this conflict occurred within the current city limits - The Battle of Lundy's Lane and the Battle of Chippawa.

To celebrate 100 years of the City of Niagara Falls in 2004, the City of Niagara Falls Museums held a re-enactment of the Battles of Lundy's Lane and Chippawa. These events brought to life one of the most important events in the history of the community.

The Niagara Peninsula is also a significant wine-growing area, with winery tours and festivals becoming a major area of growth in the local economy. This internationally renowned wine region is home to more than 50 wineries and has gained an appreciative audience. You’ll no doubt have a good culinary experience when in Niagara Falls, as the city’s agricultural heritage and regional cuisine offers has made Niagara a wine and food destination.

Niagara Falls area has over 500 restaurants, ranging from diners and fast food for families and a quick bite, up to the four-star establishments. Niagara Falls restaurants offer more than just steaks, and has a significant amount of seafood and sushi, as well almost any ethic cuisine you can imagine. The city's youth also make for thriving nightlife.
Niagara Falls and Niagara Falls, New York are linked to major highways in Canada and the United States respectively, with the Queen Elizabeth Way acting as a major artery between Toronto, Ontario and Buffalo, NY. Highway 420 is also another highway in the city.The Niagara area is served by several airports, including:

• Buffalo Niagara International Airport in Cheektowaga, NY
• Toronto Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Ontario
• Hamilton/John C. Munro International Airport in Hamilton, Ontario

You can also get to Niagara Falls by VIA Rail and Amtrak trains connecting to Toronto and New York City.

Niagara Falls Passport Information

For international travelers crossing the border, it is essential that you carry proper documentation, so that you won't be delayed unnecessarily at the border!

If you are a citizen of the United States, you do not need a passport to enter into Canada or the U.S when travelling by land or sea. However, you should carry proof of your citizenship, such as a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or naturalization, as well as a photo ID.

If you are a permanent resident of the U.S., you should bring your Permanent Resident Card (i.d. green card) with you.

Effective January 8, 2007 US citizens travelling by air between the United States and Canada will be required to present a valid US passport, Air Nexus card, or US Coast Gaurd Merchant Mariner Document.

For more information visit www.travel.state.gov or www.cbsa.gc.ca