Niagara Falls, Ontario is an absolutely breathtaking spot, and my family's trip there in 2024 to catch the solar eclipse was downright magical. The Canadian side, where you'll find Horseshoe Falls, is seriously impressive. This massive waterfall curves like a giant horseshoe, sending millions of gallons of water tumbling down about 188 feet into the misty depths below. Standing close enough to get sprayed by the mist while you hear the roar of the falls is an exhilarating experience.

We could also see the American Falls from where we were, which, though not as wide as the Horseshoe Falls, offered its own rugged, rocky charm. The combo of the two falls makes for a stunning view, especially with the eclipse as a backdrop.

But a heads up if you’re booking a hotel: not all places that claim to have "fallsview" rooms actually offer views of the falls. Do your homework and check out some reviews to make sure you aren’t stuck staring at a parking lot instead of the falls! We lucked out and got a room where we could watch the falls while drinking our morning coffee, which was just awesome. Not everyone gets that lucky, thanks to some misleading ads.

Besides gazing at the falls, there’s tons to do around Niagara Falls. You’ve got to try the Maid of the Mist boat tour—it gets you super close to the action. Or check out the Journey Behind the Falls, where you can feel the rumble of the water right beneath your feet. There’s plenty to keep a family busy over a long weekend.

All in all, Niagara Falls, is a stellar place to visit. Just make sure you sort out a good hotel to really make the most of those incredible waterfall views. It’s a spot where nature really goes all out, and the memories are sure to stick with you for life.