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Exploring Buffalo NIagara's River Region

You’re a bit awestruck and maybe even a little wet. You’ve spent the morning at Niagara Falls State Park and grabbed a bite to eat at the Top of the Falls restaurant. What to do now? Let’s see what lies at the other end of Niagara’s rainbow.

 
Hop in your car and head north on the Robert Moses Parkway towards Youngstown. First stop is the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center. Here you’ll learn about the natural and local history of the Niagara Region. The kids are sure to enjoy the interactive displays and the virtual reality Gorge Elevator Experience. Nearby, you’ll find the Niagara Gorge Trailhead Building – the primary access point to the Niagara Gorge Trails. Choose a guided hike that fits your schedule and level of fitness.

 
Heading north on the Parkway, stop at Whirlpool State Park or Devil’s Hole State Park. Both offer wonderful views of the Gorge and scenic stairways to the river below.

 
The next stop on your itinerary should be the Niagara Power Vista. This kid-friendly visitors center offers more than 50 interactive exhibits and displays related to the history of hydro-electric power. Best of all, admission is free.

 
Back in your car, stop in lovely Lewiston, home to Artpark, New York’s only State Park devoted to the arts. If your timing is right, you can catch a concert or play. And don’t miss the view of the Gorge from high on the amphitheater hill.

 
While in Lewiston, take a ride on the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour from the Water Street Landing at 115 South Water Street. This hour-long trip into the heart of the Gorge is an exhilarating, heart-palpitating whitewater adventure.

 
Finally, end your river route at Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown. For more than 300 years this site at the mouth of the Niagara River was fought over and occupied at various times by French, British and American troops. Today, it is a wonderfully restored historic site that hosts reenactments such as a French and Indian War Encampment that bring the Fort’s storied past to life.

For additional information on the Buffalo Niagara region's many architectural, cultural, historic and natural attractions, contact the Niagara Tourism & Convention Corporation at 1-877-FALLS US or visit www.niagara-usa.com.