Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
amazing area at the base of the falls. Away from the sometimes-drenching mist, it provides
safephotoopportunities.Theopenviewingportsgiveunobstructedviewsofthefallingtor-
rent of Horseshoe Falls.
The lower level of the platform is for the hardy explorer looking for the full monsoon-
like experience of Niagara. The difference between the upper and lower levels is like the
differencebetweenridinginaregularcarversusaconvertible withthetopdown.
What
you
see is the same, but
how
you see it is very different.
At the bottom of the stairway is the lower platform, a large patio area. Make certain to
wear the rain poncho, because you'll likely get soaked. You're now very close to where a
17-story-tall wall of water slams into the river below. The force of this collision generates
mist that seems to attack from all sides.
Those looking to minimize their exposure to the wind and mist can seek refuge on the
far side of the patio area, where those elements are much lighter. If you're looking for the
full experience, though, face the falls and head directly to the safety rail closest to the falls.
Depending on weather conditions, the experience can be refreshing or chilling, but it is al-
ways satisfying. Before you go out to the lower platform, stow all electronics underneath
your poncho, ideally in a protective bag.
The last leg of your journey is the elevator ride back to the top. The line to board the el-
evators usually requires a 5- to 10-minute wait. Most travelers will spend 60-90 minutes at
this attraction. When taking photos in the portals, be sure your camera's flash is activated,
as the light coming through the portals provides back lighting.
Portionsofthisattractionarelimitedinthewintermonths.Frommid-Decemberthrough
mid-April, the lower observation deck closes for the season, and sometimes the portals are
obscured by thick ice. Admission rates are reduced during this part of the season ($11.25
adults, $7 children 6-12).
NIAGARA'S FURY
Billed as a 4-D experience,
Niagara's Fury
(Table Rock Welcome Centre, 6650 Niagara
Pkwy., 905/358-3268,
www.niagarasfury.com
, 9am-5pm daily, $13.50 adults, $9 children
6-12, free for children 5 and under) is a hit with children, but a bit underwhelming for
adults. The attraction begins with an eight-minute animation describing the birth of the
falls, told through the eyes ofwoodland creatures. As the cartoon ends, doors open to a
360-degree theater space where asix-minute 4-Dmovie plays. Duringthe movie, the theat-
er's temperature fluctuates to correspond with the narrative. Water pours down the walls,
the floor shakes, raindrops fall from the ceiling, and a simulated snow squall greets you.
