One of the Natural Wonders of the World

Partner one of the Natural Wonders of the World with Las Vegas extravagance and you've got the awesomeness that is only Niagara Falls, Ontario (and New York). From the spectacular, awe-inspired power of the Falls with more than 160,000 US gallons per second cascading 167 ft, to Clifton Hill's outrageously show-off venues and Fallsview Casino's over-the-top opulence, there's no shortage of attractions - for just about anyone.

What to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario

The Niagara Region is abundant in activities to tease every pallet. A bucket-list must-see is the power and splendor of the Falls themselves, but take a few short steps from the falls and you'll find some of the world's best wineries, historic Niagara-On-The-Lake for shows, spa's and shopping. What's more, Toronto is only an hour's drive around Lake Ontario.

The Falls (Horseshoe [Canadian], Bridal and American [American]) never cease to inspire - just ask all the camera-toting tourists. Unbelievable amounts of water cascading about 180 ft into the gorge with an underwater depth equally mirrored, mists of water and rainbows are a standard feature. Best viewing is from the Canadian side - Niagara Parks offers beautifully manicured and flowered walkways. A definite itinerary item for your planning.

Activities specific to Niagara Falls abound and to visit the most-favored attractions Niagara Parks offers an Explorer Pass, bundling 4 of the most popular attractions together for major savings. The Journey Behind the Falls, White Water walk, the Whirlpool Aero Car and Niagara's Fury all are included.

Other area attractions high on the excitement index in the Niagara Falls area that you may want to add to your tour list are:

• Fallsview Casino
• Marineland
• Niagara Helicopter Tours
• Skylon Tower
• JetBoat Tours
• Niagara Falls WildPlay ZipLine Adventure
• Whirlpool Aerocar
• Butterfly Conservatory and Floral clock
• Lundy's Lane
• Historic Queenston Heights
• Great Wolf Lodge and Waterpark
• Niagara-On-The-Lake shopping and Shaw Festival

Clifton Hill

What's a visit to Niagara Falls without stopping by the Vegas-style ostentatiousness of Clifton Hill. Packed with venues like Ripley's Believe It Or Not, the Niagara Skywheel, Louis Tussaud Waxworks, Guinness World Records Museum, the House of Frankenstein, and restaurants, shops and hotels, Clifton Hill is only a short 5 minute walk to the falls.

The Niagara Escarpment offers a unique wine growing region that regularly produces world-class wines. The Wines of Ontario have produced a Wine Route Map that points you to more than 92 wineries directly in the Niagara-On-The-Lake or Niagara Escarpment regions. Ms. GoGirlfriend and I have sampled our way through many of these wineries and recommend you taste the excellent VQA Vintages offered.

Where to stay

Like the attractions offering a wide assortment for your tastes, Niagara Falls offers a smorgasbord of accommodation choices. Here are a few of our recommendations within walking distance to the Falls:

• Sheraton on the Falls (visit the Christienne Fallsview Spa)
• Embassy Suites
• Fallsview Casino Resort (visit the Avalon Theatre for great shows)
• DoubleTree Fallsview (and their Five Lakes Aveda Spa)
• Marriott Niagara (visit the Serenity Spa)

As you travel farther from the falls, rates drop, but the range of hotel options stays vibrant.

How to get here

Canadian flights can arrive at Toronto's Pearson Airport (YYZ) or Hamilton's Munro International Airport (YHM), while US flights can arrive at Buffalo International Airport (BUF).

Driving puts your time at 90 minutes from Toronto, or 30 minutes from Buffalo. The falls are visible from both countries but the best viewing angles are gained from the Canadian side so bring your passport and catch both perpectives.

To have one of the great Seven Wonders of the World in our backyard makes Niagara a great option for daytrips or staytrips. Check this off your bucket list and plan a trip to the Falls.

Let GG know of your adventures while in the falls and your favorite activities. Drop us a line on Twitter or on Facebook. We'd love to hear from you!