Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ical forest. Several smaller, rectangular greenhouses are attached to the showhouse, each
filled with tropical plants, statuary, and trees.
Of particular interest is the
titan arum,
the world's largest lily, which grows to 10 feet.
The plants on display are changed eight times a year, so there's always something different
to enjoy. (Easter and Christmas displays are the seasonal highlights.) All plants are iden-
tified by signs indicating the species name. Although plants are not for sale, you'll find
unique gardening-related treasures in the gift shop.
The outdoor gardens surrounding the showhouse consist of a large rose garden and re-
flective ponds, ideal for taking a relaxing afternoon stroll. About 30 minutes is ample time
to enjoy this attraction, but flower enthusiasts could easily spend more than an hour.
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Brink of Horseshoe Falls
Arguably one of the most photographed sites in the world, the
brink of Horseshoe Falls
(6650 Niagara Pkwy., 24 hours daily, free) has a view like no other. The brink is a public
plaza area behind Table Rock Welcome Centre, which allows you to stand at the crest of
Horseshoe Falls. The space is always open to visitors and is integrated into the paved ped-
estrian pathway that runs all the way to Niagara-on-the-Lake from Fort Erie. Green space,
trees, and benches adjacent to the plaza provide convenient places to relax and appreciate
the landscape.
It is difficult to fathom how much water spills over the falls. Every second, 680,000
gallons of water pour over the brink, enough to fill the entire Empire State Building in six
minutes! The crest line of Horseshoe Falls is 2,200 feet wide, joining this spot with Terrap-
in Point on the U.S. side. On sunny days, the vibrant green water is hypnotic and soothing,
until the water slams into the lower river with 2,500 tons of force.
Mist produced by the thundering waterfall can climb 200 feet or more in the air. The
wind determines where the mist will fall and there's always a possibility that standing here,
you'll feel some fine precipitation. It's a good idea to carry an umbrella when visiting the
brink, as well as a cloth for drying your camera lens.
This area is stunning year-round. During winter, the mist collects on every surface and
freezes, creating a crystalline skin on tree branches, guide rails, and light posts, which is
as beautiful as it is fragile. In autumn, the blazing reds and yellows of the changing leaves
bring vibrancy to the grey of the gorge.
The pedestrian area along the brink is always open to visitors, even when the indoor
areas of the Table Rock Welcome Centre are closed. Use common sense when taking pic-
tures at the brink and do not climb on top of guardrails or support pillars. Many, many
