Ooh, Look! A Waterfall! (Part 2)

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Because of the fact that I don’t have a passport I had to be “content” to see Niagara Falls from the US side. That’s fine with me. Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the United States, becoming the first park so designated in 1885. Smart move on New York’s part. The view may not be as “panoramic,” but you have many different opportunities to get “up close and personal” in the park. That includes being at the literal edge of all three waterfalls, being able to view the “American rapids” from multiple locations, and even venturing out onto Three Sisters Island for stunning views of the Niagara River. I visited the park in 1997 with my dear mother of blessed memory. Given her health there were things we couldn’t do. I walked a good deal of the park (my phone pedometer says about six miles), seeing the islands, walking the pedestrian bridge to the far side of the American Falls, and a stroll along the river, listening to the nonstop roar of the water. I also had dinner at the Top of the Falls restaurant. It’s in a state park next to a natural wonder, so the prices are what you’d expect (high). The view of the Horseshoe Falls while dining was worth every penny, too! Admission is free, but it costs $10 for parking. That’s a good bargain, considering what some lots in town (not so close to the falls) charge. And one look makes it worthwhile.