No trip to North America, or Canada, is complete without visiting the iconic Niagara Falls. It really is a sight that you will not forget in a hurry, once you have seen it. There are some wonderful places to stay right on the edge of the falls and several ways to enjoy one of nature’s truly awesome sights.

Get a bird’s eye view of the falls from your hotel room

Perhaps the laziest way to enjoy the falls is to stay right next to them. There are hotels like the one you can book at niagarafallsmarriott.com that give you fantastic panoramic views from the comfort of your hotel room.

Niagara Falls Highlights

Naturally, these rooms book up fast, sometimes years in advance. They are very popular with honeymooners, so if you want one you will need to book as early as possible.

Take a helicopter ride over the falls

In such a spectacular place you really have got to take the chance to go all James Bond. A helicopter ride over the falls is going to be memorable, to say the least, if a little pricey.

Niagara Falls Highlights

Take a boat tour

A slightly scary way to see the falls is from a boat. The Hornblower Niagara Cruise takes you right into the mists kicked up by all that pounding water. It is certainly an exciting way to experience the falls. You will get wet, but you are provided with a lightweight waterproof that keeps most of it away from your clothing. Again, these tours book up fast, so it is well worth pre-booking.

Niagara Falls Highlights

From the observation tower

If you want that iconic shot of you with the falls behind you take the time to go to the Prospect Point Observation Tower. This observation deck juts out over the water allowing you a proper uninterrupted view.

Niagara Falls Highlights

From the Skylon Tower

For those of you who are visiting the Canadian side of the falls, the Skylon Tower is the place to head. You get excellent views, and can even enjoy a meal if you want to.

Niagara Falls Highlights

Take a tour behind the falls

You can even get behind these massive waterfalls. The Journey Behind the Falls tour is a great video opportunity. However, it this tour is not for the faint-hearted. You get to the caves by walking along wooden walkways. Again, you are going to need some sort of waterproof to avoid getting wet. Fortunately, a poncho and a pair of basic sandals are included in the tour package. If you are claustrophobic you may not want to take this tour because you have to walk through an old tunnel to reach the observation platform at the bottom.

Niagara Falls Highlights

Walk around the edge of the falls

The other way to see the falls is to take a walking tour along the edge and across Rainbow Bridge.

Niagara Falls Highlights

Remember your passport

If you want to visit attractions in both the US and Canada, you will need to be carrying the right documentation. This article explains exactly what you need. However, please bear in mind the rules can change, so you should always double check with your tour operator before you travel.