Niagara Falls Fun Facts

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We’ve created this list of 101 fun facts about Niagara Falls!

This article contains over 101 fun facts about Niagara Falls, fun facts for kids, plus fun facts about its history, tourism, culture, legends, and so much more!

Niagara Falls Fun Facts


Table of Contents

Fun Facts About Niagara Falls – About Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls located on the Niagara River, which flows between the United States and Canada. The falls are situated on the international border between the province of Ontario in Canada and the state of New York in the United States.

The three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls are the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. The Horseshoe Falls is the largest of the three and is located on the Canadian side of the border.

The American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are located on the American side of the border. Niagara Falls is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to see the breathtaking natural beauty of the falls.

Fun Facts About Niagara Falls – 101 Fun Facts

Here are 101 fun facts about Niagara Falls:

  1. Niagara Falls is made up of three waterfalls: the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls.
  2. The Horseshoe Falls is the largest of the three waterfalls and is located on the Canadian side of the border.
  3. Niagara Falls is located on the Niagara River, which flows between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.
  4. Niagara Falls is 167 feet tall and has an average flow rate of 85,000 cubic feet per second.
  5. The Niagara River is the primary source of drinking water for more than 8 million people in the United States and Canada.
  6. Niagara Falls is a popular tourist destination, attracting more than 30 million visitors each year.
  7. The first recorded person to go over Niagara Falls was a woman named Annie Edson Taylor in 1901.
  8. The first person to survive going over Niagara Falls in a barrel was a man named Charles Stephens in 1920.
  9. The Maid of the Mist is a boat tour that takes visitors into the mist of Niagara Falls.
  10. The Cave of the Winds is a tour that takes visitors down to the base of Bridal Veil Falls.
  11. Niagara Falls has been the site of many stunts, including tightrope walks and barrel rides.
  12. Niagara Falls was formed at the end of the last Ice Age, approximately 10,000 years ago.
  13. The Niagara Escarpment, a large rock formation, runs through the area and contributes to the formation of the falls.
  14. The Niagara River was an important transportation route for Native Americans and European settlers.
  15. Niagara Falls was first discovered by European explorers in the 17th century.
  16. Niagara Falls has been the site of many hydroelectric power plants since the late 19th century.
  17. The first hydroelectric power plant at Niagara Falls was built in 1895.
  18. Niagara Falls was the first place in the world to have all of its streetlights powered by electricity.
  19. Niagara Falls has been the site of many movies and TV shows, including Superman II and The Office.
  20. The Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the United States.
  21. Niagara Falls has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada and a State Park in the United States.
  22. Niagara Falls has been a popular honeymoon destination since the 19th century.
  23. The Niagara Falls Illumination Board lights up the falls every night.
  24. The water that flows over Niagara Falls is a distinctive green color due to the presence of dissolved minerals.
  25. The Niagara River is an important habitat for a variety of fish species, including salmon and trout.
  26. Niagara Falls has been the site of many environmental controversies, including debates over the use of water for hydroelectric power.
  27. The Niagara Falls area is known for its wine production, particularly ice wine.
  28. Niagara Falls is a popular destination for adventure sports such as ziplining and whitewater rafting.
  29. Niagara Falls has been the site of many scientific studies, including research on erosion and hydrology.
  30. Niagara Falls is the most powerful waterfall in North America.
  31. Niagara Falls has inspired many artists and writers, including the poet Lord Tennyson and the painter Frederic Edwin Church.
  32. The Niagara River is an important trade route, with more than 20% of the world’s trade passing through the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.
  33. Niagara Falls has been the site of many romantic proposals and weddings.
  34. The Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge, built in 1855, was the first bridge to cross the Niagara River.
  35. The first recorded person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel and survive was a woman named Annie Edson Taylor in 1901.
  36. After Annie Edson Taylor’s successful barrel ride, many other people attempted similar stunts, but not all of them were as lucky. In fact, some lost their lives attempting to go over the falls in barrels or other contraptions.
  37. Tightrope walking across the Niagara Gorge has also become a popular attraction over the years. In 2012, Nik Wallenda became the first person to walk a tightrope directly over the falls.
  38. The water flowing over Niagara Falls comes from four of the five Great Lakes: Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Erie.
  39. Approximately 20% of the world’s fresh water supply is in the Great Lakes.
  40. The flow of water over Niagara Falls is greatly affected by the amount of precipitation and snowmelt in the surrounding areas. During dry seasons, the water flow can be reduced to just a trickle.
  41. The word “Niagara” comes from the Iroquois word “Onguiaahra,” which means “the strait.”
  42. Niagara Falls is actually made up of three separate waterfalls: the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls (also known as the Canadian Falls).
  43. The Horseshoe Falls are the largest of the three waterfalls and are located on the Canadian side of the border.
  44. The American Falls are located on the American side of the border and are separated from the Horseshoe Falls by Goat Island.
  45. The Bridal Veil Falls are also located on the American side of the border and are separated from the American Falls by Luna Island.
  46. The Niagara River, which feeds Niagara Falls, is only about 35 miles long and connects Lake Erie to Lake Ontario.
  47. The Niagara River has a maximum depth of about 170 feet.
  48. The Maid of the Mist boat tour, which takes visitors right up to the base of the Horseshoe Falls, has been operating since 1846.
  49. The Maid of the Mist boats are named after a legend about an Indian princess who sacrificed herself to the falls to appease the gods.
  50. Niagara Falls has been the setting for several movies, including Superman II, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, and Niagara.
  51. Niagara Falls has inspired many artists over the years, including painters, photographers, writers, and musicians.
  52. Niagara Falls was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1985.
  53. In 2016, Niagara Falls became the first destination in North America to be designated as a “sustainable destination” by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
  54. Niagara Falls has been the site of several historic events, including the first known high-wire walk across the Niagara Gorge by Charles Blondin in 1859.
  55. The first hydroelectric power station in the world was built near Niagara Falls in 1895.
  56. Niagara Falls has been the site of several daredevil stunts over the years, including tightrope walking, barrel riding, and even walking across the falls on a jet ski.
  57. The Niagara Falls State Park, located on the American side of the border, is the oldest state park in the United States.
  58. The Niagara Parks Commission, located on the Canadian side of the border, was established in 1885 to manage and protect the parklands around Niagara Falls.
  59. The Niagara Gorge, located downstream from Niagara Falls, is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
  60. The Niagara Falls Illumination Board is responsible for lighting up Niagara Falls at night with a rainbow of colors.
  61. The Niagara Falls Fireworks Spectacular is held every summer and features fireworks set off over the falls.
  62. Niagara Falls is a popular destination for weddings, with several wedding chapels and scenic locations to choose from.
  63. Niagara Falls has been featured in several songs, including “Niagara Falls” by Hank Williams Jr., “Niagara Falls” by Stone Temple Pilots, and “Niagara Falls” by Travis Tritt.
  64. Niagara Falls has also been featured in many books, including “The Falls” by Joyce Carol Oates and “The Day the Falls Stood Still” by Cathy Marie Buchanan.
  65. Niagara Falls has been the subject of many myths and legends over the years, including stories about spirits, monsters, and hidden treasure.
  66. Niagara Falls is a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 300 species of birds spotted in the area.
  67. The Niagara River is home to several species of fish, including salmon, trout, and bass.
  68. The Maid of the Mist, a popular boat tour that takes visitors up close to the base of the falls, has been operating since 1846.
  69. The Hornblower Niagara Cruises is another popular boat tour that takes visitors up close to the falls from the Canadian side of the border.
  70. The Cave of the Winds, located on the American side of the border, offers visitors the chance to walk on a series of wooden decks that lead right up to the base of the Bridal Veil Falls.
  71. The Skylon Tower, located on the Canadian side of the border, offers panoramic views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area.
  72. The Niagara Falls International Airport, located in Niagara Falls, New York, is a popular gateway for visitors to the falls.
  73. Niagara Falls has been the location for several movies, including “Superman II”, “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”, and “Niagara”.
  74. Niagara Falls has been the subject of several television shows, including “The Amazing Race”, “The Bachelor”, and “Top Gear”.
  75. The Niagara Falls Marathon is held every October and attracts runners from around the world.
  76. Niagara Falls is a popular destination for winter sports, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
  77. Niagara Falls is located in the Niagara Escarpment, a long ridge of rock that stretches from New York to Wisconsin.
  78. The Niagara Escarpment is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, recognized for its unique geological formations and diverse plant and animal life.
  79. Niagara Falls is one of the most photographed natural attractions in the world, with millions of visitors each year taking photos and videos of the falls.
  80. Niagara Falls has been featured in several video games, including “Grand Theft Auto IV”, “BioShock Infinite”, and “Assassin’s Creed III”.
  81. Niagara Falls is a popular spot for weddings, with many couples exchanging vows overlooking the falls.
  82. The Niagara Falls Illumination Board lights up the falls every night with a variety of colors, creating a stunning light show.
  83. The Niagara Gorge Trail System offers hikers and nature enthusiasts the chance to explore the area’s stunning scenery and natural beauty.
  84. Niagara Falls has a rich history of hydroelectric power generation, with several power plants located on both sides of the border.
  85. The Niagara Falls State Park, located on the American side of the border, is the oldest state park in the United States.
  86. The Niagara Falls State Park is home to several attractions, including the Cave of the Winds, the Maid of the Mist, and the Niagara Scenic Trolley.
  87. The word “Niagara” comes from the Iroquois word “Onguiaahra,” which means “the strait.”
  88. The Niagara River was once an important trade route for Native American tribes and European explorers.
  89. The Niagara River has a strong current and is known for its rapids, making it a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking.
  90. The Niagara River is also home to several shipwrecks, including the “Michigan”, a steamer that sank in 1844.
  91. The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center tells the story of the area’s role in the Underground Railroad and the struggle for freedom.
  92. The Niagara Wine Trail offers visitors the chance to explore the area’s many wineries and taste some of the region’s best wines.
  93. Niagara Falls has a rich cultural heritage, with a diverse population that includes Native Americans, Canadians, and Americans.
  94. The Niagara Falls Culinary Institute offers culinary arts programs and dining experiences, showcasing the area’s rich food culture.
  95. Niagara Falls is a popular spot for fishing, with several species of fish including bass, trout, and salmon.
  96. The Niagara Falls International Film Festival, held annually in Niagara Falls, New York, showcases films from around the world.
  97. Niagara Falls has been the site of several daredevil stunts, including tightrope walks and barrel rides over the falls.
  98. The Niagara Falls Daredevil Museum, located on the Canadian side of the border, features exhibits and artifacts related to these daring stunts.
  99. The Niagara Falls region is home to several historic sites and museums, including Old Fort Niagara and the Castellani Art Museum.
  100. Niagara Falls has been the subject of several works of art, including paintings by renowned artists such as Frederick Church and Georgia O’Keeffe.
  101. Niagara Falls is a natural wonder that has captured the imaginations of people from around the world, inspiring awe and wonder for generations.

Fun Facts About Niagara Falls – 25 Fun Facts for Kids

Here are 25 fun facts about Niagara Falls that kids might enjoy:

  1. Niagara Falls is made up of three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
  2. Horseshoe Falls is the largest of the three falls and is located on the Canadian side of the Niagara River.
  3. The falls were formed around 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age.
  4. Niagara Falls is not the highest waterfall in the world, but it is one of the most powerful.
  5. The water that flows over Niagara Falls comes from the Great Lakes.
  6. The word “Niagara” comes from the Iroquois word “Onguiaahra,” which means “the strait.”
  7. Niagara Falls has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century.
  8. People have gone over the falls in barrels and other contraptions, and some have even survived.
  9. The first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel and survive was Annie Taylor in 1901.
  10. The water at the bottom of the falls is about 170 feet deep.
  11. Niagara Falls is lit up at night with colorful lights that change every few minutes.
  12. Niagara Falls has been the site of many daredevil stunts, including tightrope walks and bungee jumps.
  13. The Maid of the Mist is a boat tour that takes visitors up close to the base of the falls.
  14. The Cave of the Winds is a tour that takes visitors behind the falls.
  15. The Niagara River is an important source of hydroelectric power.
  16. Niagara Falls is a popular spot for weddings and honeymooners.
  17. Niagara Falls is located on the border between the United States and Canada.
  18. The Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the United States.
  19. Niagara Falls freezes in the winter, creating a spectacular frozen landscape.
  20. The Niagara Falls Gorge is a popular spot for hiking and exploring.
  21. Niagara Falls is a popular spot for bird watching.
  22. Niagara Falls is home to a variety of fish species, including lake sturgeon and rainbow trout.
  23. The Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory is a popular attraction that features thousands of butterflies.
  24. Niagara Falls has been the backdrop for many movies and TV shows.
  25. Niagara Falls is a natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors every year.

Fun Facts About Niagara Falls – History

The following are some historical fun facts about Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls has a long and rich history that dates back thousands of years. The falls were formed around 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, when melting glaciers created the Niagara River. For centuries, the falls were an important source of food, water, and transportation for the Native American tribes that lived in the area.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, European explorers and settlers began to visit the falls, and they quickly became a popular tourist destination. In 1848, the first suspension bridge was built over the Niagara River, making it easier for visitors to reach the falls.

During the 19th century, Niagara Falls became a center of industry and commerce, as factories and mills were built along the river to harness its power for hydroelectricity. The Niagara Falls Power Company was founded in 1886, and it soon became the largest producer of hydroelectric power in the world.

In the 20th century, efforts were made to preserve the natural beauty of Niagara Falls, and the falls were designated as a state park in 1885. The falls have also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Today, Niagara Falls is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. It is also an important source of hydroelectric power and a symbol of the natural beauty and power of the natural world.

Fun Facts About Niagara Falls – Geology

The following are some historical fun facts about Niagara Fall’s geology.

Niagara Falls is located on the Niagara River, which flows from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. The falls themselves are formed by a combination of erosion and geological activity over thousands of years.

The rocks that make up the Niagara Gorge are primarily made of shale, sandstone, and limestone, which were deposited in the region during the Ordovician period, around 450 million years ago. These rocks were later covered by glaciers during the last Ice Age, around 10,000 years ago.

As the glaciers receded, they created the Niagara River, which flows over a steep drop in the underlying rock formation, creating the Niagara Falls. The force of the water erodes the softer rock beneath the falls, causing the falls to recede over time. In fact, the falls have moved back approximately seven miles since their formation.

In addition to erosion, geological activity also plays a role in shaping the falls. The region is located along the Niagara Escarpment, which is a ridge of rock that runs from Wisconsin to New York. This ridge is responsible for the geological activity that created the Niagara Falls, as well as the numerous other waterfalls and rapids along the Niagara River.

Fun Facts About Niagara Falls – Cultural Significance

Another fun fact about Niagara Falls is that it’s a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world, and different cultures have different views and beliefs about the falls.

In Native American culture, the falls are considered to be a sacred place and a source of spiritual power. Many tribes, including the Iroquois and Ojibwe, have legends and stories about the falls that explain their significance and power.

In Chinese culture, the falls are known as the “Rainbow Bridge,” and are believed to be a symbol of good fortune and luck. The falls are also associated with the concept of “feng shui,” or the balance of natural energies.

In Japanese culture, the falls are known as “the great waterfall,” and are considered to be a symbol of natural beauty and power. They are often depicted in artwork and poetry, and are a popular destination for Japanese tourists.

In European culture, the falls have been a popular tourist attraction since the 19th century, and are often associated with romance and natural beauty. They have been the setting for many literary and artistic works, and have inspired countless tourists and travelers over the years.

Fun Facts About Niagara Falls – Tourism

Another fun facts is that Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Tourism at Niagara Falls is a major industry, with a wide range of attractions and activities available for visitors to enjoy.

The falls themselves are the main attraction, and visitors can experience them in a number of different ways. Boat tours, such as the Maid of the Mist, take visitors right up to the base of the falls, allowing them to experience the power and majesty of the water up close. Observation decks, such as the Skylon Tower and the Niagara Falls State Park Observation Tower, offer panoramic views of the falls from above.

In addition to the falls, there are many other attractions in the area for visitors to enjoy. The Niagara Falls State Park, which is the oldest state park in the United States, offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and other recreational activities. The Niagara Falls Illumination and Fireworks show is a popular nightly event, where the falls are lit up with colorful lights and fireworks.

The Niagara Falls region is also home to many museums, galleries, and cultural attractions. The Niagara Falls History Museum, the Niagara Aerospace Museum, and the Niagara Falls Art Gallery are just a few of the many options available to visitors.

Finally, Niagara Falls is also a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The Clifton Hill district is home to many shops, restaurants, and amusement parks, and is a popular destination for families with children.

Overall, tourism at Niagara Falls offers something for everyone, from natural beauty and adventure to culture and entertainment.

About Niagara Falls – Legends

Another fun fact is that Niagara Falls has a rich history and several legends associated with it. Here are some of the most popular ones:

The Legend of the Maid of the Mist: According to legend, a group of Native Americans sacrificed a young girl to the spirits of the falls in exchange for their protection. The girl’s spirit was said to have transformed into a white dove, which continues to fly over the falls to this day.

The Legend of Lelawala: This legend tells the story of a young woman named Lelawala who fell in love with a brave from a rival tribe. When their love was discovered, they were forced to flee to the edge of the falls, where they leaped to their deaths. It is said that Lelawala’s spirit can still be seen in the mist of the falls.

The Legend of the Thundering Water: According to this legend, the falls were created by the gods as a way to punish two warring tribes. The gods caused the earth to shake and split, creating the Niagara River and the falls, which were said to be a reminder of the power of the gods and the folly of war.

The Legend of the White Canoe: This legend tells the story of a native woman who was searching for her lost love. She was given a white canoe by a medicine man and told to paddle to the edge of the falls, where she would find her lover waiting for her in the afterlife.

These legends are an important part of the cultural heritage of the Niagara Falls region and continue to inspire awe and wonder in visitors today.

About Niagara Falls – Symbols

Niagara Falls is a natural wonder and a symbol of power and beauty. Here are some fun facts about Niagara Falls and its of the most notable symbols:

The Falls: The most obvious symbol of Niagara Falls is the falls themselves. They are a stunning natural wonder that has captivated people for centuries.

Maid of the Mist: Maid of the Mist is a famous boat tour that takes visitors right up to the base of the falls. It has become an iconic symbol of Niagara Falls and is a popular tourist attraction.

Niagara Falls Illumination: The illumination of Niagara Falls with colorful lights has become an iconic symbol of the falls at night. The lights create a beautiful display of colors that reflect off the mist.

Rainbow Bridge: The Rainbow Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that connects the United States and Canada over the Niagara River. It is a symbol of the friendship between the two countries and offers stunning views of the falls.

Niagara Gorge: The Niagara Gorge is a deep canyon that runs along the Niagara River downstream from the falls. It is a symbol of the power of the river and the natural forces that created the falls.

Niagara Falls State Park: Niagara Falls State Park is a symbol of the conservation efforts that have helped preserve the natural beauty of Niagara Falls. It is the oldest state park in the United States and is visited by millions of people each year.

Other Interesting Things About Niagara Falls – Popular Culture

Another fun fact about Niagara Falls is that it has been featured in various forms of popular culture, from literature and film to music and art. Here are some examples:

Movies: Niagara Falls has been the backdrop for several movies, including Superman II, Niagara, and Bruce Almighty.

Television: Niagara Falls has also been featured in many television shows, including The Amazing Race, The Office, and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

Music: Niagara Falls has been the inspiration for several songs, including “Niagara Falls” by Chicago and “Niagara Falls” by Steve Earl.

Art: Many artists have been inspired by the beauty of Niagara Falls, including the famous painter Frederic Edwin Church, who created several paintings of the falls.

Literature: Niagara Falls has been mentioned in many works of literature, including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain and The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper.

Sports: Niagara Falls has also been used as a backdrop for various sporting events, including the 2015 NHL Winter Classic hockey game between the Buffalo Sabres and the New York Rangers.

Overall, Niagara Falls has become an iconic symbol of natural beauty and power that has captivated people’s imagination for centuries, and it continues to inspire artists, filmmakers, musicians, and writers today.

Other Interesting Things About Niagara Falls – Attempts to Go Over

Over the years, there have been many attempts to go over Niagara Falls, both intentionally and accidentally. Here are some fun facts about the most notable attempts:

  1. Annie Edson Taylor: In 1901, Annie Edson Taylor became the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel and survive.
  2. Bobby Leach: In 1911, Bobby Leach went over Niagara Falls in a steel barrel, surviving with two broken kneecaps and a broken jaw.
  3. Charles Stephens: In 1920, Charles Stephens went over Niagara Falls in a barrel, but tragically did not survive the attempt.
  4. Karel Soucek: In 1984, Karel Soucek went over Niagara Falls in a custom-built barrel, surviving the drop, but later died while attempting a similar stunt in the Houston Astrodome.
  5. Kirk Jones: In 2003, Kirk Jones went over Niagara Falls without any protective equipment, and miraculously survived the 16-story drop.
  6. Erendira Wallenda: In 2017, Erendira Wallenda broke the world record for aerialists by hanging by her teeth from a helicopter above Niagara Falls.
  7. Nik Wallenda: In 2012, Nik Wallenda became the first person to walk across Niagara Falls on a tightrope, and in 2013, he became the first person to walk across the Grand Canyon on a tightrope.

Overall, going over Niagara Falls is an extremely dangerous and illegal activity, and is not recommended or condoned by authorities.

Other Interesting Things About Niagara Falls – Quotes

In addition to fun facts about Niagara Falls, here are some famous quotes about Niagara Falls:

“Niagara Falls is the hanging tongue on the face of the earth, drooling endlessly over its own beauty.” – Vinita Hampton Wright

“The roar of Niagara Falls is a mere whisper of the voice of God.” – Unknown

“Niagara Falls is the bride’s second great disappointment.” – Oscar Wilde

“It’s Niagara Falls. You need a barrel, not a boat.” – Michael Scott (The Office)

“Niagara Falls is the perfect Honeymoon destination. After all, it’s all downhill from here.” – Unknown

“Niagara Falls is the symbol of the grandeur and power of nature, and the insignificance of man.” – Unknown

“Niagara Falls is a reminder that the most beautiful things in life are also the most dangerous.” – Unknown

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