Hello beautiful people, I hope you are all doing well.
I have to tell you: September sun just hits different. It’s hard to explain, but there is a transitional energy to it – still warm enough to feel like summer, but with a soft enough tone to remind you that fall is on its way. Around me, the trees are still very much green though we know the transition to the beautiful vibrant hues of orange, red and yellow are imminent.
Anyways, I recently went to Niagara Falls but came away with a new perspective on the experience. I’ve been there many times in the past, but I realized that I’d never actually been there.
Let me explain.
For the longest time, my experience visiting Niagara Falls was just about hovering in and around the heavy touristy spot known as Clifton Hill – you know – the “CNE” of Niagara Falls with all the overpriced attractions and buzz. It’s a prime tourist trap that keeps on the strip the entire visit.
This time, I was compelled to really appreciate just the beauty of the falls and the surrounding area.
At the foot of Clifton Hill is the Oakes Garden Theatre – an area lined with curved stone pathways, lush greenery, and beautifully designed gardens that create a sense of peace and calm just steps away from all the foot traffic and hustle and bustle near the falls.
I wish I had taken more pictures when wandering through here, but I was too caught up in just soaking up the beauty.
The falls themselves are always a hit – but in all the times I’ve gone to Niagara Falls, I’d never made a point to walk right up to the other end to really get up close and personal to our beautiful Canadian Horseshoe falls. Who knew how much I was missing out on!
Along the walk to the falls, I captured this beautiful Canada sign.
Once I reached the other end, I had to cram my way in to get a spot because it was so crowded.
I was completely in awe of what was in front of me. As soon as you approach enormous crescent of white water, you’re just struck but its sheer scale. The cool, refreshing mist on your face makes you feel even more immersed in the moment.
What I find so beautiful about the Canadian falls is the contrast between the peaceful calm of the river and the roaring power of the falls as it widens into this enormous expanse of white water.
The full rainbow only added to the sheer beauty of it all.
I felt a little sheepish knowing that I’d never experienced the view this close up before. I really felt like a tourist in my own backyard. lol
It’s those little things that you overlook that end up making all the difference.
Of course, there are many activities available that will take you really close up to the falls like the Niagara City Cruises boat tour – not to be confused with the classic Maid of the Mist boat ride which now only operates on the New York side of the falls.
Another popular attraction is the Journey Behind the Falls, which takes you over 120 feet below to reach the observation deck at the foot of the enormous bedrock beneath the falls for a breathtaking view and experience.
Having said that, I came away from this visit with a new appreciation for the simpler things – just pausing, observing and soaking in the natural beauty – and the added bonus was that it didn’t a cost anything.
