Perhaps one of the biggest tourist attractions in the United States and Canada is Niagara Falls. Thousands of gallons rush over the edge every second of every day. It is a spectacular sight! I have had the privilege of visiting both the Canadian side and the U.S. side, and I have to say...Niagara Falls, is one of the very few good things about that country, eh?

On the Canadian side, you can see the view that are in most pictures. The giant horseshoe-shaped waterfall inspires awe and wonder. You can walk in caves behind the falls, and see photographs of all the daring...no...idiotic, men who have floated over the edge in a barrel, or tightrope walked from one side to the other. You can find some of the best Belgian waffles you will ever eat, but you could also find the absolute worst motel rooms. Chunks of ceiling falling down, dirty sheets, and dusty furniture are only a few of the amenities you will find in Canadian lodging.

During my more recent trip to the falls, I visited the United States side just North of Buffalo, NY. Spectacular, still, in all its massiveness, the familiar side of Niagara is not a sight to miss. You can take a stroll along the Niagara River just before it splashes over the cliff, and then make your way to the walkway over the river to get a different perspective. On a clear day, you will be able to get a good glimpse of the Canadian side, which makes for a fantastic photo-op. Off season, access to these areas is free of charge, but I do not think that is the case during tourist season!

Gift shops remain open and have all of the trinkets and souvenirs you could possibly want or need. From key chains, to magnets, to t-shirts, and games, you will easily find something to take home with you. If you are hungry, you can pick one of the many restaurants on the main strip in Niagara Falls, NY. Most notably, The Hard Rock Cafe, sits directly across the street from the parking area. If you are staying the night, you have plenty of places to choose from, but be sure to plan ahead because even in off peak times, the rooms will be full and I promise you will not find a room nearby. Unless you feel like spending $200 per night of course.

The falls are sometimes illuminated at night with neon colors of greens, reds, and blues. Whoever came up with that idea is genius. Take an already amazing natural wonder and highlight it at night for people to gasp at. I hope he or she was paid a lot of money for something so brilliant. It doesn't happen every night, and there is no set schedule, so you will have to get lucky. While you're there, don't forget to take a ride on the Maid of The Mist. It is a boat that will take you for a spin into the river bed, right next to the falls. You will get soaked, so wear a poncho, and cover up your camera gear!

To get there from the East Coast, take trust Route 90W through New York before connecting with 290W. From there you will take I-190N to exit 21. Follow the flow of traffic and the signs to get you the rest of the way.

Niagara Falls is certainly one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world. For an inexpensive tourist attraction, everyone should have the opportunity to see both sides of the falls at least once in their lifetime.