Niagara Falls Live Cam

History

Niagara Falls, located on the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA, has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. The falls themselves were formed over 12,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, when retreating glaciers carved out the Great Lakes and the Niagara River. The natural wonder comprises three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, the largest and most famous; the American Falls; and the smaller Bridal Veil Falls. Together, they create one of the most iconic natural attractions in the world.

The Indigenous peoples of the region, including the Iroquois Confederacy and the Neutral Nation, were the first to discover and honor the grandeur of Niagara Falls. They regarded the falls as a sacred place, with spiritual significance tied to their mythology and rituals. European exploration of the area began in the 17th century when French explorer Samuel de Champlain arrived in 1604. However, it wasn’t until Father Louis Hennepin, a Belgian missionary, documented the falls in 1678 that their existence became widely known in Europe.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Niagara Falls became a focal point for settlement, commerce, and tourism. The establishment of mills and hydroelectric plants along the Niagara River underscored the falls' economic importance. By the mid-19th century, the advent of railroads and steamboats made the area more accessible, transforming Niagara Falls into a premier tourist destination. Victorian-era travelers flocked to the falls to marvel at their majesty, spurring the development of luxury hotels, observation decks, and other amenities.

In the early 20th century, efforts were made to protect and preserve Niagara Falls from over-industrialization. The creation of the Niagara Parks Commission in Ontario and the establishment of the Niagara Reservation in New York ensured the conservation of this natural wonder for future generations. Today, Niagara Falls continues to captivate millions of visitors annually, offering breathtaking views, thrilling attractions, and a rich historical legacy.

Role in Hydroelectric Power Development

Niagara Falls has played a pivotal role in the development of hydroelectric power. In 1895, Nikola Tesla and George Westinghouse harnessed the falls' immense energy to create one of the first large-scale hydroelectric power plants in the world. The success of this project marked a turning point in renewable energy technology and established Niagara Falls as a global symbol of innovation and progress.

Surroundings

Niagara Parks and Attractions

The city of Niagara Falls, Ontario, is home to a plethora of attractions that complement the natural beauty of the falls. The Niagara Parks Commission oversees an extensive network of parks, trails, and attractions that allow visitors to experience the region’s natural and cultural heritage. Highlights include the Niagara Parkway, a scenic drive that stretches along the Niagara River, offering stunning views and access to landmarks such as the Floral Clock and the Whirlpool Aero Car.

The Journey Behind the Falls is one of the most popular experiences, allowing visitors to venture through tunnels behind Horseshoe Falls and witness the thundering cascade from a unique perspective. The Hornblower Niagara Cruises offer a close-up view of the falls from the river, complete with the exhilarating mist of the plunging waters. Additionally, the Niagara SkyWheel, located in Clifton Hill, provides panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

Natural Wonders and Conservation Areas

Beyond the falls themselves, the Niagara region is home to an array of natural wonders and conservation areas. The Niagara Glen Nature Reserve features hiking trails that wind through lush forests and ancient rock formations along the Niagara River. This area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers opportunities for birdwatching, rock climbing, and exploring prehistoric geology.

Queen Victoria Park, located near the falls, is another highlight. This beautifully landscaped park showcases seasonal flower displays, including tulips in the spring and chrysanthemums in the fall. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation and picnics, with prime views of the illuminated falls during evening hours.

Entertainment and Nightlife

The city of Niagara Falls boasts a vibrant entertainment scene that caters to visitors of all ages. Clifton Hill, often referred to as the "Street of Fun," is a bustling area filled with attractions such as arcades, mini-golf, wax museums, and themed restaurants. For those seeking a more upscale experience, the Fallsview Casino Resort offers gaming, dining, and live entertainment, all with spectacular views of the falls.

During the summer months, the falls come alive with nightly fireworks displays and special events such as concerts and festivals. The Winter Festival of Lights, held annually from November to February, transforms the area into a dazzling wonderland with millions of twinkling lights and holiday-themed displays.

Climate of Niagara Falls

The climate of Niagara Falls is classified as humid continental, characterized by four distinct seasons that each offer unique experiences for visitors. The region’s proximity to the Great Lakes moderates its temperatures, creating relatively mild winters and warm summers.

Seasonal Highlights

Spring is a season of renewal, with blooming flowers and budding trees adding vibrant colors to the landscape. Temperatures gradually rise from cool to mild, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring the parks. Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and long daylight hours drawing crowds to the falls and surrounding attractions. Temperatures typically range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), and the cooling mist from the falls provides relief from the heat.

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and breathtaking foliage, as the trees surrounding the falls transform into shades of red, orange, and gold. This season is perfect for photography and enjoying scenic drives along the Niagara Parkway. Winter, while colder, has its own charm. Snow-covered landscapes and frozen mist create a magical atmosphere, and activities such as ice skating and winter hikes add to the allure.

Tips for Visitors

Visitors should dress in layers, especially during transitional seasons when temperatures can vary. Rain gear or waterproof clothing is recommended for those venturing close to the falls, as the mist can be quite heavy. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the parks and trails.

Geography of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is situated on the Niagara River, which flows from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario and forms part of the international border between Canada and the United States. The falls themselves are divided into three distinct sections: Horseshoe Falls, located primarily on the Canadian side; American Falls, entirely within the United States; and Bridal Veil Falls, the smallest of the three.

Geological Features

The Niagara Escarpment, a prominent geological formation, plays a significant role in shaping the region’s topography. This limestone ridge was carved by glacial activity, creating the dramatic drop that gives rise to the falls. The erosion of softer rock beneath the escarpment causes the falls to gradually recede upstream, a process that has shaped their iconic appearance over millennia.

Hydrology

The Niagara River is a critical waterway, connecting two of the Great Lakes and serving as a source of drinking water, transportation, and hydroelectric power. Approximately 85% of the river’s water flows over Horseshoe Falls, while the remaining 15% is divided between American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. The flow rate of the falls varies seasonally and is regulated to balance tourism, environmental preservation, and power generation.

Tip for Visitors

For an unforgettable experience, consider visiting Niagara Falls at sunrise or sunset. The changing light creates a kaleidoscope of colors that enhance the beauty of the falls, offering a quieter and more serene atmosphere compared to peak hours.

Interesting Fact about Niagara Falls

Did you know that Niagara Falls is a natural border crossing point between Canada and the United States? The Rainbow Bridge, located downstream from the falls, allows pedestrians and vehicles to travel between the two countries while enjoying stunning views of this iconic natural wonder.

The Wisconsin glaciation about 10,000 years ago

Niagara accommodations in every price range, first class hotels, family and suites, camping areas, hostels and cozy Bed and Breakfasts. They will suit your taste and your pocketbook. Niagara has a number of excellent hotel properties from which to choose. Many are within 1 to 2 blocks walking distance of each other and convenient to all of the attractions. All of Niagara's larger hotel properties can provide suites or meeting rooms for meetings or conventions. At the present time, there are more than 3,700 rooms located within the city limits. 1,800 of these are located in the downtown area. A wide selection of economy motels are located on Niagara Falls Boulevard (Route 62). Campgrounds and bed and breakfast accommodations are also available in the city and surrounding areas.

Niagara a unique destination anytime of year. Niagara offers visitors a clean, safe environment, plus affordability in everything. Niagara's restaurants are special too...ethnic or down home, we have a great selection. Visitors may wish to dine at the Falls or sip a glass of wine by the Niagara River. Dining opportunities are as varied as the many tourists who visit Niagara Falls - from fast food restaurants to buffets. The Niagara area is a treasure chest to explore - Mexican, Italian, German, Chinese, Continental, Indian, Polish and American; enjoy a dinner cruise or picnic lunches at the Park.

When the lights go down, view the fabulous illuminations of the American and Bridal Veil Falls. When the moon is full and high in the Southern sky it is possible to experience the incredible phenomena of a "Lunar Bow", rainbows made by moonlight passing through the mist rising from the American Falls. This erie yet romatic sight is often completely circular. Celebrate the conclusion of a very special evening with a quiet nightcap, or toast the beginning of a late night of excitement and entertainment at one of Niagara Falls, New York's varied night spots. Choose your pleasure... from line dancing to a two step beat or throbbing sounds of top rated nightclubs. Niagara Falls, New York is playing your song.

Along with its own natural beauty, Niagara Falls offers visitors a safe, clean environment with the small town appeal of warm hospitality and all the amenities of a big city including accessible transportation. Niagara is serviced by the Buffalo/Niagara Falls International Airport located 25 minutes from downtown Niagara Falls. All major airlines fly into this airport and offer frequent and convenient air service between Buffalo and most major American cities. In many cases, direct service is available. The ITA Airport Shuttle provides daily scheduled service to and from Niagara Falls hotels to Buffalo/Niagara Falls International Airport. Special arrangements are available for groups requiring transportation to or from the airport. Charter flights and private aircraft may land at the Niagara Falls International Airport located ten minutes from the Convention and Civic Center and the downtown area.

The Niagara Falls International Transportation Center is conveniently located next to the Niagara Falls Convention and Civic Center. Inter-city routes provide easy access to downtown Niagara Falls and the surrounding areas with full bus service facilities also available. Niagara Falls Amtrak Train service offers a continuing transportation link to and from Eastern New York State. This direct link includes stops in the cities of Albany, Syracuse and Rochester.

Niagara Falls is at the confluence of two major super highways, the New York State Thruway system (Interstate 90) and Canada's Queen Elizabeth Way. Niagara's international location offers many side trips to the cities of Buffalo, Rochester, Toronto and Niagara Falls Ontario or to the New York regions of the Finger Lakes and Chautauqua. All are within a short and reasonable distance. Niagara Falls serves as a hub from which conference participants are provided with quick and easy travel.

Located just 1,800 feet from the power of the American Falls and its tranquil surroundings is the Niagara Falls Convention and Civic Center. Its central location puts you within walking distance of all the excitement and wonder Niagara has to offer while placing individuals in the striking, rainbow- arched structure that offers a novel and practical environment for trade shows, conventions and sporting events with flexibility and convenience of space and purpose. Addtional features include a two-tiered Balcony, the Main Arena, the Sky Lounge, the Greek Theatre, the Pub Restaurant and 10 meeting rooms.

The Center offers a number of support services, including in-house professional caterer. Directly in front of the Convention Center is E. Dent Lackey Plaza, a public area featuring a 1,500 seat open-air amphitheater. Special programming is provided at the plaza including weekend ethnic festivals, live outdoor entertainment and an exhilarating outdoor skating rink perfect for winter recreation. The NFCVB's office is conveniently located on E. Dent Lackey Plaza's lower level.

If you were "born to shop", Niagara USA is the place to be! It is the home to specialty shopping, malls, boutiques and quaint villages. Niagara... shop for the most wanted names in leather goods, toys, sportswear, china and crystal, jewelry, and brand names, with designer labels at 50 to 70% off retail at our factory outlets. From antiques to collectibles, from flea markets to charming country shops, you can find a treasure and a memory just around the corner. If you are looking for one of the largest factory outlet malls in the United States, we have it! Niagara USA has some terrific surprises in store for you.

Walk or drive to the Rainbow Centre Outlet Mall; have breakfast in the food court and enjoy the morning shopping. Be sure to include a short on and a half blocks to Artisans Alley for unique arts and crafts. After lunch continue your shopping by driving to Pine Avenue and Niagara's Little Italy family run stores. You might end your first day's shopping spree in Historic Lewiston with its quaint shops and antiques. Day 2: Shop! Shop! Shop! in this shopper's delight - Niagara's Factory Outlet with over 150 factory stores. Lunch in the food court and plan your strategies as you drive to the Summit Park Mall and continue the shopping frenzy. In the spirit that there is a "little bit of child in all of us", take a few minutes and ride the beautiful carrousel located at this Mall. Other shopping options: Historic Lockport, Lockport Farmer's Market; Historic Youngstown and Historic Tonawanda.

Fascinating Facts About Niagara

No one knows exactly who the first European visitors to the Falls were, but the first eyewitness account of spectacular Niagara was recorded in 1678 by Father Louis Hennepin, a priest from the Spanish Netherlands who was traveling with a party for the French explorer La Salle. Niagara has always attracted daredevils. In 1859, a famous French tightrope walker named Blondin walked across the Niagara Gorge and back - an amazing feat he repeated many times - sometimes on stilts or shackeled in chains, and frequently while carrying people and objects. He never fell and performed until he was 68. The first person to go over the Horseshoe Falls in a barrel and live was 43-year old Annie Edson Taylor, who took the plunge on October 24, 1901, in an oak barrel padded with cushions. Hundred of thousands have come to the Falls on their wedding trips. In fact, 50,000 honeymoon couples come to Niagara Falls annually. Among the first farnous honeymooners were Jerome Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon who visited the Falls with his wife in 1803.

There are three Falls: American, Bridal Veil Falls (also known as Luna Falls) and Horseshoe Falls. The American Falls at 182 feet, is higher than the Horseshoe Falls at 176 feet. Horseshoe's crest at 2,100 feet, is longer than the American's at 1075 feet. The amount of water flowing over the Falls varies with the season and time of day. On a summer day 750,000 gallons per second go over the Falls, at night in the summer and all winter it is 350,000 gallons a second. The amount of Water flowing in the Niagara River is 1,400,000 gallons per second. Thus, half to three quarters of the water is diverted for power generation.

In 1843 the first Suspension bridge across the Niagara was opened for traffic. Stores, churches, schools and businesses were established and grew. Niagara Falls became an incorporated city in 1892 on March 17 and this commenced another period of growth, the greatest in the 19th century. Trees and foliage thousands of years old remain in their original locations and the wide open green spaces and tree lined paths hold back the intrusion of modern times. The thundering rapids surround the islands which-are connected by little bridges. Rocky paths take you out furthest into the rapids. Goat Island was named for the goats that survived the winter of 1763 and pastured there. All the other farm animals died. Today Goat Island is a favorite spot for runners, walkers and bicyclists with its measured mile paths which take you along the river and the Falls.

A naturalized citizen should have his or her naturalization certificate. Alien permanent residents of the United States need their alien registration receipt card. Other naturalists need passport and/or visas. If there are any questions, check with authorities first. Dogs must have a valid veterinary's certificate of rabies vaccination. Exceptions: performing and "seeing eye" dogs. Cats must have a valid veterinary's certificate of rabies vaccination. House plants for personal use-no restriction. Other plants- contact Canadian customs.

When you cross the border between Canada and the U.S. you will encounter an officer of either customs or immigration services. Here are some tips to help smooth your passage:

Have all identification documents ready to present to the officer (passports, alien registration cards, etc.) Declare all items you acquired. Answer all of the officer's questions clearly and directly. Try to address specific concerns or questions in advance of your trip.