August 19, 2021

After our ”grand tour” of the Southeast, Washington D.C., and New York, we finally arrived in Massachusetts, where we would settle in for the next six months. But what was the first thing we did? Turned around and drove 1,060 miles roundtrip to Niagara Falls. What can I say? When you have the opportunity: seize it!

Leaving the RV behind, we threw our suitcases in the car and headed across New York.

Two words: Easy…Drive

From Cape Cod: One Left Turn + Drive Across Upstate NY + 8 hours= Niagara Falls

Checking into the motel, we stretched our legs after a long day of traveling. Now, unfortunately for my family, I like to play a little game I call: “Hotel Roulette.” I HATE spending money on hotels, so I usually try to find something adequate, but affordable. Well despite my best efforts, sometimes my booking selections are a little…questionable. Always safe, but let’s just say…the kids are usually hesitant to swipe the keycard (if there is one). Our accommodations for the night were…sufficient. The bathroom door stuck and the knob wouldn’t turn, making you wonder if you would be locked in the bathroom forever. But the sheets were fresh, the towels clean, and the location just a few miles from the Falls.

Did You Know?

• Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls, Horseshoe Falls (also known as Canadian Falls), American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. The source of the water comes from four of the Great Lakes which then merge and pour into the Niagara River, creating a breathtaking border between Ontario, Canada and New York.
• Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the U.S. having been established in 1885.
• 3,160 tons of water flows over Niagara Falls every second!
• Niagara Falls is capable of producing over 4 million kilowatts of electricity, a valuable source of hydroelectric power, which is shared by the United States and Canada.
• Horseshoe Falls is the most powerful waterfall in the United States.
• The mortality rate for daredevils going over the Falls is approximately 25%

Illumination Light Display

As twilight faded into darkness, we headed to the state park to enjoy the nightly “Illumination” display. Back in 2016, we made a pitstop at Niagara on our way back to the midwest after a brief visit with Dave’s sister in Vermont. We toured the Falls during the day, but a long drive ahead of us had prevented us from sticking around for the light show.

”Illumination” is created by hundreds of LED lights casting their colorful glow upon the cascading waters of the triple falls. The contrast of the vivid neon colors in comparison with the dark sky, combined with the thundering roar of the waters, creates a multi-sensory experience like no other. After long moments of gazing at awe-inspiring natural wonders paired with modern-day technology, we left the park; our hair damp from the mist swirling around us.

Maid of the Mist

The next morning we retraced our steps and headed back to Niagara Falls, eager for our voyage on the Maid of the Mist. With tickets in hand, we enjoyed the panoramic views of both the Falls and Canada from the Observation Tower as the line inched along. As we neared the dock, a crew member handed out the signature blue plastic ponchos, which are similar to wearing a trash bag, but with a drawstring hood. However, since it was 90ºF outside, we delayed donning our ponchos until our chances of becoming waterlogged were a little higher.

Once aboard the all-electric vessel (new in 2020) we found a spot on the top deck next to the outer railings. As the boat ferried into the Niagara Gorge, the power of Niagara Falls was almost immediately felt. From the intense wind gusts to the swirling mists, we instantly became drenched in Niagara’s display of ferocity. Good thing we were wearing those ponchos! Now if only our sunglasses had had built-in windshield wipers!

The 20-minute ride took us up close and personal, as we watched the waters cascade over the rocky ledge and then crash upon the boulders below. As the boat steered away from the Falls, we narrowly missed the churning whirlpools, leaving me wondering what would happen if the boat got sucked into one of those? Good thing the captains clearly know how to maneuver through the choppy waters. It’s like they’ve done this a time or two!

All too soon our ride was over. Discarding our now soaked ponchos, we rode the 20-story elevator back up the observation tower. As we crossed the bridge, we enjoyed one more mesmerizing view before saying good-bye to the always spectacular Niagara Falls!