Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Outdoor Gardens
As you walk north from the brink of the falls, you can see across the gorge to Niagara
Falls. From there, turn 180 degrees and look across the Niagara Parkway, where you'll find
the outdoor gardens of
Queen Victoria Park
(Niagara Pkwy. from Table Rock to Clifton
Hill,
www.niagaraparks.com
, 24 hours daily, free). Queen Victoria Park is a meticulously
groomed landscape with lush green lawns, rock gardens, fountains, and trees. Plants have
beenchosensothatsomethingisalwaysbloominginthespring,summer,andautumn.Park
benches and verdant grassy areas are perfect for a rest, with their panorama of the gorge
and falls.
The
Oakes Garden Theatre
(Niagara Pkwy.,
www.niagaraparks.com
, 24 hours daily,
free)isimmediatelyacrossCliftonHillfromQueenVictoriaPark,ahiddengemthatiseas-
ily overlooked because it appears to be part of a private attraction or hotel. It was once the
site of the grand and historic Clifton Hotel, the meeting place for both Union and Confed-
erate representatives discussing diplomatic matters during the American Civil War. Today,
the Oakes Garden is the setting for many special events, including live music and festivals.
The gardens feature a beautiful curved walkway adorned with pillars and latticework built
into small hills that overlook a raised stage area. The falls supply a beautiful backdrop to
the fan-shaped stage. The Oakes is one of the best spots to view the fireworks display over
the falls at 10pm on Fridays and Sundays in summer.
Overlook
Oneofthebestviewsofthefallsisfromanoverlooknotmarkedonanymapsandwithouta
name. It's near the intersection of Livingstone Street and Fallsview Boulevard, just in front
of the Marriott Gateway Hotel. From this humble perch, you can see Table Rock Welcome
Centre,HorseshoeFalls,andtheupperrapidsoftheNiagaraRiver.Youcanalsogetagood
sense of the distance between the Diversionary Dam, Toronto Power Generating Station,
and brink of the falls.
Very few people know about this overlook, so it isn't crowded. It is a short walk from
all the major high-rise hotels and the casino. Walk south on Fallsview Boulevard until you
reach the end of the road. If you're driving, park along the curb on Fallsview Boulevard.
Look for the WEGO bus shelter across from the taxi stand and you'll be at the right spot.
