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The Mystery of the Barrel Along the Niagara Parkway

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Niagara Falls Private Custom Tour from Toronto Area As you drive along the Niagara Parkway, many visitors notice an old barrel sitting by the roadside and wonder about its story. This is Hill’s barrel — used by Major Clifford Hill in July 1949 in a daring attempt to navigate the Niagara River rapids. The same powerful rapids he faced can still be seen up close at the White Water Walk, where the raging waters reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. Few have dared to challenge these Class VI rapids, making Major Hill’s stunt a remarkable part of Niagara’s long history of adventure and risk. There’s even rare original footage of Hill’s 1949 attempt available on YouTube:  Next time you visit, take a moment to stop and see this unique piece of Niagara’s past — one of many fascinating stories waiting to be discovered. Book Niagara Falls Private Custom Tour from Toronto Area!

The One Souvenir You Really Need from Niagara Falls

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Niagara Falls Private Custom Tour from Toronto Area Can’t decide what to bring home from your Niagara Falls trip? With so many souvenir shops around, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—we’ve got a few tips to help you pick something meaningful (and avoid the tourist traps). Classic picks like t-shirts, keychains, or fridge magnets are easy wins. Maple syrup is a sweet option too, though you’ll find it cheaper in local stores. On my last visit, I chose a dreamcatcher for my child. Just make sure it’s made by Indigenous artists—not mass-produced ones from overseas. But honestly? The best souvenir might just be the memory of standing before the breathtaking Falls themselves. Book Niagara Falls Private Custom Tour from Toronto Area!

Niagara Falls in Bloom: Visit the Lilac Garden

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Niagara Falls Private Custom Tour from Toronto Area If you're visiting Niagara Falls in late May or early June, make sure to stop by the Centennial Lilac Garden. It's located right next to the famous Floral Clock—easy to find and worth the visit. During this short window in spring, the garden comes alive with blooming lilacs in many beautiful shades. The colors are stunning, and the sweet fragrance fills the air. It's a peaceful and refreshing experience. And the best part? Entry is completely free. So if you're in Niagara Falls around this time of year, don’t miss it. It’s a great spot to relax, take photos, and enjoy the beauty of spring. Book Niagara Falls Private Custom Tour from Toronto Area!

A Surprise Stop at the Welland Canal

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Flexible Niagara Falls Tour When you're driving from Niagara Falls to Toronto, there are two ways to cross the Welland Canal. One way is the big overpass. It takes you high up and gives you a nice view of Lake Ontario and some of the canal locks. The other way is the road-level route, where there's a drawbridge. That one’s closer to the canal and more direct if you're coming from places like the Wayne Gretzky Winery. That’s the way we went. But as we got to the bridge, it was up in the air—waiting for a ship to pass. At first, we were a bit frustrated. No one likes getting stuck in traffic. But then we realized it was actually a cool experience. We got to see a large ship go by up close, and we watched the bridge in motion. It was something you don’t see every day. The whole thing only took about 10 minutes. It ended up being an unexpected highlight—something small, but memorable. Just another fun moment to add to your Niagara Falls adventure. Book flexible Niagara Fa...

Niagara Boat Tours Start May 8

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Niagara City Cruises on the Canadian side start up again on May 8. There's been a bit of a delay because of ice still coming down from Lake Erie. Or perhaps it's rainy weather in early May of this year keeping tourist numbers low. The U.S. boat tour, Maid of the Mist, is already running, but we’re just a few days away. Spring is here, flowers are out, and the falls are looking great. Book your boat tickets here: https://www.niagaracitycruises.com Want a private tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls? I’ve got you covered:  https://www.niagarafalls-tour.com/

Planning Your Niagara Falls Trip? Here's My Ticket Advice

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One of the most frequently asked questions by people traveling to see Niagara Falls is whether to book attraction tickets in advance or buy them once they arrive. During the off-season months, typically from November through April, I suggest purchasing tickets on the spot, as lineups are usually short. In the summer months, when more tourists visit Niagara Falls - one of the natural wonders of the world - I recommend a slightly different approach regarding tickets: Buy boat tour tickets online in advance to skip the line at the box office. Reserve the Skylon Tower restaurant for lunch online , as tables can be fully booked during peak times. Book a winery tour in advance if you have a specific winery in mind. If not, don't worry—there are many great wineries in the region, so if one is booked, we can visit another. When it comes to Niagara Parks attractions —such as Journey Behind the Falls , the Power Station and Tunnel , White Water Walk , Whirlpool Aero Car , and...

Journey Behind the Falls or the Power Station Tunnel?

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Flexible Niagara Falls Tour At Niagara Falls, many visitors face a common dilemma: should you explore Journey Behind the Falls or visit the Niagara Parks Power Station with the Tunnel ? Both are incredible experiences, but if you're short on time or on a budget, you may have to choose. Journey Behind the Falls takes you through tunnels behind the waterfall, where you’ll witness the power of the falling water through observation windows and hear its thunder echoing around you. You'll then step onto a viewing platform right at the base of Horseshoe Falls—an unforgettable, up-close encounter. The Power Station and Tunnel offers a fascinating look into the history of hydroelectric power at Niagara. The experience includes an interactive museum and a walk through the historic tunnel once used for spent water. It leads to a platform at the river’s edge, offering a breathtaking view of the falls from below. In the photo illustration above, you’ll see both viewing platforms. The ...