Niagara Falls
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Niagara Falls are one of the world's most famous water falls, at the border of the United States and Canada.
It is rich with history, although the tourism industry doesn't not mention this. It is the site of one of the biggest waterfalls in the world and also the site of several battles from the War of 1812 (US invaded Canada and were pushed back by British forces). Digs around the city reveal more artifacts from this war, and from times before Europe had ever reached here. We have always been a tourist town for almost 200 hundred-years and have seen plenty of stunts and things done overtop of the falls and literally over the falls itself. If you are interested in old battles and history, this is certainly one great stop to check out.
Meetings: There currently are no meetings for CS'ers here, the closest one is in Toronto (1 1/2 - 2hr's north on QEW)
Tips: Bring lots of money! This town is chalk full of things for tourists and sightseers to do, but it is extremely expensive. Food, water, attractions and entrance fees are through the roof and a crime in any other city but ours. A slice of Pizza at Souvenir City (where I work after school) will cost over $6, and a pop or water is over $3... this is just an example and the higher class you go, the prices follow.
Wherever you stay, you can access the local residential community no problem. All of the hotels are right on the backyards of houses basically, and from any top floor, you can see across the city (quite a nice sight too). If you need a necessity, we have all of the big-name stores here and it's as simple as getting in your own car, a taxi ($2.50 upon getting in and approximately 10cents for every 100m), or the bus ($2.50 for a ride on one route including transfer - make sure to ask)
In addition to bringing lots of money, bring a camera of some sorts, but make sure you protect them and don't leave anything behind or show any signs that you are carrying large amounts of money. This is a no-brainer for any trip, but of special concern here, mainly because I know many of the kids who will rip your camera, money clip, wallet off etc if you leave it alone. (*If you see a suspicious looking fat kid with a white gangster while going down Clifton Hill, steer clear because that is most likely Bret(15) and Jesse(16) who have stolen countless things from people and still come back* **P.S. If you see a skater kid that is always smiling, that's Ryan (15) and he's more daring then the other two combined. He'll be by himself, or with a couple of kids, but not Bret of Jesse)
Also, another safety tip. Do not go into the downtown area after dark. If you go down Victoria from Clifton, don't go farther then the entrance to the highway on your left, it is not safe. In the day time, no problem ,but I wouldn't take my chances with anything, especially as a visitor to the city. Niagara Map Don't go down Vitoria from Bender St, and avoid the entire area in between from Bender to the Niagara Glen-View Park at the end of Victoria. If you're going north, dont go past Stanley and the highway (unless in a car).
What to see and do: This will simply be a summarized list of things to do since there are wayyyyyyyy too many. Clifton Hill has close to 2-dozen, if not more attractions on the hill (actual number unsure of) including several wax museums, restaruants, mini-putting, observation wheels, arcades, souvenir shops and haunted houses to boot. The Skylon Toweris another thing to check out and offers the best view of the city and falls from 775 ft on the air. Prices are equal to it's height at $11 can for an adult and $7 for a child (but you get to ride in an external glass elevator, known as a "bug"). We have 2 casinos,Casino Fallsview and Casino Niagara. There are countless tours and attraction packages to choose from, and you'll find offerrs for them everywhere you go. The Niagara Parks Commission owns and operates all of the land along River Rd. from Fort Erie to Niagara-on-the-Lake basically. The have countless attractions, both for adults and kids... there's certainly no boring time for those who visit.
Where to stay: There are countless places to stay, ranging from Hotels, to Motels, to even 3 Hostels Niagara Falls Backpacker Hostel, Niagara Falls Rainbow Hostel - HI hostel and Lyons House Hostel. Hotels include the: Hilton, Embassy Suites, Raddison, Marriot (two), Sheriton (two), Comfort and Quality Inns, and many other smaller places. Motels are endless, the better ones are located within the vicinty of the tourist area, but anything that may be downtown doesn't look too safe.
Misc. Internet access is available in most hotels, but since this is CS.com, the local library offers "Internet Only" cards (free), and gives you 2 hours of access a day but no book loans.
