Niagara Falls thunders into your heart

Go!

Niagara Parks Commission: For the skinny on what’s going on at and around Niagara Falls, visit the website of the commission that has been protecting them since the 1870s, the Niagara Parks commission, at niagaraparks.com.

Niagara Falls State Park, New York: Year ‘round fun at Niagara Falls State Park, the country’s oldest state park. Visit niagarafallsstatepark.com.

Getting there: For Canada, passports are required. You might not need a car in Niagara on Lake, Ontario, Canada, but driving is still an economical and fun road trip, especially to see the falls. Hints: Have passports open to photo ID page, surround for inspection at the booth, answer questions as asked and be on your way. Ditto for the return in the United States. In the United States, drive on into the park.

Exchange rate: The exchange rate for Canada strongly favors the U.S. dollar, making a visit to Canada an even better idea. Especially to Niagara Falls, Ontario. Heads up: When using cash, change will be given in Canadian currency.  

FALLS FACTS

• Barrel attempts: Since 1901, 15 “daredevils” have challenged Horseshoe Falls in a barrel. 25 percent perished. The rock talus at the base of the American Falls helps to keep daredevils away from the U.S. side.

• The beginning: The Niagara Falls Gorge was carved 12,000 years ago.

• The falls: The free-flowing waters of the Niagara River Gorge feed the three falls that entice visitors from all over the planet: Bridal Veil Falls and the American Falls on the U.S. side of the border and Horseshoe Falls in Ontario, Canada.

• The drop: Water from the Falls tumbles 185 feet from a point that is 18 stories high.

• The water: Each second, 74,000 gallons tumble across the brink.

• The visitors: Each year, more than 14 million people visit, stay and play at Niagara Falls.