One of mother nature's epic wonders, Niagara Falls is one to be seen.

 

There are three waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, which make up what is known as Niagara Falls on that encompass the American- Canadian border.

 

From Penn Station in New York, you can reach Niagara in around 9 hours by Greyhound or Megabus bus. However, if visiting Toronto, you can journey from there to the Falls in only 5 hours.

 

Once there, depending on whether you are in Canada or America, the Maid of the Mist or Hornblower cruise is the only way to experience this natural phenomena fully. Costing $17 (MotM) or $19.95 (Hornblower),  the boat takes you up close to all three waterfalls, so close the free poncho comes in very handy.

 

For the cheap backpacker it can seem like an overpriced tourist trap but, in reality, it is the only thing worth spending your dollar on in Niagara.

 

The water and dramatic drop is beautiful to see and leaves you with a sense of awe. This is one of nature’s wonders and it really is a staggering view to see gallons of water descend over a 165 foot drop and hit the river below.

 

After seeing Niagara Falls well, that’s kind of it. The town itself isn’t worth more than a glance. A cross between Blackpool and Butlins, the main strip is full of money-making ‘Believe It or Not’ museums and light up souvenir shops. Luminous signs and noisy tunes make for a stark contrast between the serene natural site and the tacky commericalisation on Niagara’s main strip.

 

There are some nearby nature trails and hikes you can do to snap up a bit more of this area’s natural landscape but unless you have a trusty guide you’d be best be cautious about getting lost.

 

Leaving most with mixed feelings, Niagara Falls is definitely worth seeing but grab your snaps and then it's time to go.