Tag Archives: Niagara SkyWheel

Attractions

Why you need to get over your fear of the Niagara SkyWheel

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Photo cred IG @princesspitch_

Scared of heights? Here is why you need to get over your fear of the Niagara SkyWheel, and some exercises you can take that can help with Acrophobia (the fear of heights).

1. The Niagara SkyWheel is safety inspected on a regular basis. 


Photo cred IG @born.wild.still.wild

Our Niagara SkyWheel is safety checked frequently to assure the smooth and comfortable experience you always dreamed of. We are 175 feet from ground level, but since we are situated at the highest peak of Clifton Hill, you will receive an unparalleled view from these panoramic gondolas. We want to make sure that not only you get stunning views, but that there are no “hiccups” while you are up there. You will never have to worry.

2. We are an observation wheel, NOT a ferris wheel.

The SkyWheel doesn’t fold out in a day and you can’t rock them like those rides at the fair. There’s no feet hanging out the bottom to contend with, and your spouse/kids/friends can’t scare you by making them really move with their body weight. If it is a really windy day, the gondolas may sway back and forth a touch, but rest assured that you are completely safe and the nuts and bolts are on complete lock down! The SkyWheel can withstand wind speeds of up to 135 miles per hour! That gondola is going nowhere except providing you with one of the BEST views of the Niagara Falls.

Other ways observation wheels differ:

  • Observation wheels feature enclosed gondola’s.
  • Observation wheels are supported by an A-frame support, whereas ferris wheels are supported by two towers on each side of the axle.
  • Observation wheels offer a 360 degree unobstructed view.

3. We are fully enclosed AND climate-controlled.

No matter the elements, you will be comfortable inside the SkyWheel. Each gondola is fully enclosed by a non-reflective, UV protected glass (for quality photo opportunities). We are air-conditioned in the Summer and heated in the Winter.

4. You CANNOT open the doors.

The gondola doors are locked from the outside, so passengers are entirely safe and secure. There is no way little hands can pry it open for the inside.

5. You have an emergency button at your disposal.

If you absolutely must get off, you may press the “emergency call” red button found on the roof of the gondola. The SkyWheel Operator will see your call and once the rotation is complete, you will be let off immediately before the next turn. There is always a way to communicate with the control board Operator.

*Note: Some SkyWheel operators recommend riding during the evening if you suffer from Acrophobia, as the darkness tricks the eye into thinking you are not as high. You will still get magnificent lit up views of the Niagara Falls illumination, without the fear of staring at the ground and people below.

6. Claustrophobic? We can help with that too.

Also found on the roof of the gondola is the green “fan” button. This will assist you with air flow, plus you may open the upper window part way (see photo).

7. You are not alone.

This means that unlike at a carnival where there is one operator loading, unloading, and operating the wheel, there is no sole operator here at the Niagara SkyWheel. The operation booth is occupied at all times, and there will always be at least one attendant loading and unloading the passengers. They remain on deck — so give a wave on your rotations! They are there to make sure your ride is an enjoyable experience.

Steps to help with Acrophobia:

Research has found that 1 in 7 people suffer from an “irrational fear of heights”, with women being more than twice as likely than men to suffer from this.

a)  When faced with a threatening situation, take slow, deep breaths, which can help slow the heart rate and increase the oxygen flow to muscles to keep from tensing up.

b) Meditate. Relaxing music, aromatherapy, and even some stretching or light massage can help relieve the physical symptoms.

c) Seek “Behaviour Therapy”.  In this form of treatment, the acrophobe is encouraged to take small steps to desensitize himself to the phobia. Do this easily at home by viewing pictures taken from a height, or by climbing one stair at a time and then incrementally increasing the height.

d) Mentally prepare yourself ahead of time by educating yourself on what you are about to do. If you know that you are going to be dealing with heights, try to prepare yourself in advance. Close your eyes and visualize the situation, and understand that it does not pose any real threat to your safety and go over all the safety precautions (barriers, railings, harnesses, etc).

e) Cut back on caffeine. This may be a contributing factor to acrophobia. Limiting or abstaining from caffeine could help alleviate symptoms. It is likely to make you less high-strung and more relaxed, which can make it easier to confront your fear.

For those of you that have an intense fear of spending a lot of money (Chrometophobia), here is a $1.00 off Niagara SkyWheel coupon that can be used for up to 6 people in your group. Just print it out and enjoy!

Or purchase the Niagara SkyWheel in a Clifton Hill Fun Pass. This is the best deal to get more attractions, for less. Proceed with the order online and you will receive an additional Niagara SkyWheel (go day and night!):


 

Attractions, Entertainment, Family, Things To Do

Niagara Falls Vacation Tips and Tricks on Clifton Hill

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Here’s the scoop on how to get the best out of your time with the family on Clifton Hill with a few insider tips to make your Niagara Falls vacation the best time ever!

Know the Best Time to Dine

Generally, the busiest times to dine during the Spring and Summer months is between 8:00 – 9:00 pm, and between 7:00 – 8:00 pm for the Fall and Winter. Our busiest season is the Summer, from the time that kids get out of school in June until the Labour Day weekend. The primary reason why our restaurants fill up at these times is due to the Niagara Falls Fireworks shows, which is one of this industry’s biggest draws to the city of Niagara. The showtimes are at 10:00 pm during the Summer, and at 9:00 pm during the Fall and Winter. Travelers prefer to dine approximately two hours before the shows begin so belly’s are full in time for the grand spectacles in the sky.

Clifton Hill is a massive tourism draw for our international guests and overseas group excursions. With this in mind, many people arrive in large groups which could result in longer wait times to be seated should you come at the height of the dinnertime hour. Both the Boston Pizza and KELSEYS Original Roadhouse come equipped with a pager system should you have to wait for a table; and be aware that reservations are not made at many of these establishments (pre-planned large group bookings aside), so timing is everything.

*If you wish to book a large group for parties and special functions, you may call ahead to check for availability with our Group Sales Department at 1-800-801-8557 or fill out an online inquiry here.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds on Clifton Hill

It goes without saying that when traveling to Clifton Hill in the Summer and many Holiday weekends, you should expect crowds. Once mid-April hits (or before, should the ice boom in the Niagara River be removed earlier), all the attractions will be open and running including the Hornblower Niagara Cruises and the MistRider Zipline to the Falls. Clifton Hill’s attractions run year round (with the exception of outdoor miniature golf), but with the introduction of these two seasonal tourist attractions, Clifton Hill becomes a family magnet. Hiking the gorge is at its height, Niagara-on-the-Lake is flourishing with fruit stands and outdoor patios, and events and festivals throughout the region are abound.

If you can manage a getaway prior to late June, that is the prime time to travel here to avoid the peak season, and save some money along the way. Mid-week from September to March is fantastic because prices are lower for hotel accommodations. In September the weather is still warm, the boats are still on the water, both portals remain open at the Journey Behind the Falls, and kids aren’t too deep into their schoolwork yet. As long as you don’t mind large groups of school kids during the day, May to June can be heavy with end of the year school trip bookings at our attractions (see here for our current school group package for the curious minds).

When referring to hitting up the attractions at the least busy times, Clifton Hill is less crowded in the mornings, as many guests are still waking up or just arriving to their hotel destinations. On days that feature the Niagara Falls Fireworks shows, many guests have the desire to try and catch the show from the Niagara SkyWheel. If this is the case, remember that you are not the only one with the same idea. The SkyWheel does not take reservations, so if the wish is to be on the ride when the fireworks go off, arrive approximately 20 minutes to a half hour before the show (even earlier on Holiday weekends). 

Try to do most of the Niagara Falls attractions before the fireworks shows, as once they are over, the crowds conjure up the Hill at approximately the same time. These people are ready to continue on with the fun at the same time that you are, meaning the potential of longer line-ups in likely.

The Niagara SkyWheel has a standard fee of $11.99 for Adults and $6.99 for Children (plus HST) no matter the time of day, season, etc. Refer to the Niagara Falls Illumination schedule prior to an evening jaunt on the big wheel in the sky. The SkyWheel provides incredible views of the Niagara Falls and the entire Niagara skyline, but for the best photos be sure to ride within the allotted illumination times. Remember, the sky is dark by 5:00 pm in the Winter, so if you come during that time of the year, refer to the illumination chart highlighted above or simply ask a cashier working there when the lights go on and off.

Without a doubt, the Clifton Hill Fun Pass is the best deal for to get more bang for your buck when doing an abundance of attractions. At an incredible savings, you’ll get 6 of our most popular attractions for only $29.95 for Adults and $19.95 for Children (+HST). During the late Fall and Winter (minus the Christmas season) some attractions can open a little later than the Summer hours of 9:00-10:00 am. If you bought the Fun Pass and you do not finish all the attractions in one day, you have one year from the date of purchase to do so. Hold on to your cards for a future visit.

A huge benefit of the Clifton Hill Fun Pass is the avoidance of line-ups. Your cards are VIP, meaning you head straight to the turnstiles and scan your way in without having to wait at any cashier stations.

Dinosaur Adventure Golf Course

As one of the nation’s largest miniature golf courses, Dinosaur Adventure Golf features two 18-hole courses that you choose from: “Raptor Run” and “T-Rex Trek” (for a total of 36 Holes). But what course should you choose?  If your Niagara Falls vacation is family oriented and includes young children than the T-Rex Trek is for you. This course was made slightly easier, and kids will love the opportunity to play a hole inside the volcano — which only this one provides. The Raptor Run is for the competitive families or for the older family; it’s more challenging with trickier holes.

Scariest Haunted House

Clifton Hill has an obsession with haunted houses. Which should you choose? If you have young children, stick to the haunted houses directly on Clifton Hill. While they can be scary, they are manageable. These would be “the Haunted House”, “the House of Frankenstein”, and “Castle Dracula”. Looking to terrify yourself? Nightmares Fear Factory is the one for you! Are you brave enough to make it till the end? As I write this, 148,780 have chosen to “Chicken out”.

 

Niagara Falls Coupons

We have Clifton Hill coupons on our website available to print off ahead of your Niagara Falls vacation. These are for both attractions and dining savings. Forgot to print them off? No worries. You will find coupon books on site located in the Great Canadian Midway and our Tim Hortons location. If you park in our public parking lot (click here for information), you will receive a coupon book upon arrival full of amazing savings.

Things To Do

5 Ways to Experience Las Vegas in Niagara Falls

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Niagara Falls, Ontario is not only a prime tourist destination to view the spectacular world-famous Horseshoe and American Falls, but did you know that you can experience Las Vegas in Niagara Falls as well?
Here are 5 ways to get excited! Bring your friends, spouse, and even hold your bachelor/bachelorette party here.
#1. Watch a Magic Show 

Photo cred
As one of the world’s premier magicians, the Greg Frewin Theatre brings a little bit of Las Vegas to the Falls with this dazzling magic show. Featured at the Flamingo Hilton, Caesar’s Palace and Tropicana, Greg Frewin brings his performance to the heart of Niagara Falls. Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner before being treated to a spectacular night of magical illusions.
It’s also home to special events from concerts to comedy. Check the calendar before your visit and buy your tickets in advance before they sell out!
For information please visit www.gregfrewintheatre.com 
#2. Walk the Strip!

Photo cred
Las Vegas is known for its vibrant cityscape with dramatic architecture and lights. Just like Vegas, Niagara Falls has its own dazzling street of fun — Clifton Hill! It’s constantly modernizing itself with new attractions, bigger and better newly renovated restaurants such at Kelsey’s Original Roadhouse (with one of Niagara’s biggest patio’s featuring live entertainment), and entertainment offerings on the Strip. Just like in Las Vegas, Clifton Hill even has its own Elvis Impersonator that sits in the Niagara SkyWheel Courtyard entirely wrapped in gold for photo opportunities! Light shows? Yes! At the bottom of Clifton Hill is Queen Victoria Park where everyone waits for the Niagara Falls firework shows every Friday, Wednesday, Sunday, and Holiday throughout the Summer. Las Vegas is the city that never sleeps, and Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls attractions close late in the Winter, and in the wee hours of the morning in the Summer, making it Niagara’s favourite party destination.
Niagara Falls illuminations happen daily 365 days a year!
www.cliftonhill.com 
#3. Gamble the Night Away and take in a Concert!

We have two casinos in Niagara Falls! Just like in Las Vegas, our casinos never close!
Casino Niagara is Niagara’s oldest casino located just off Clifton Hill. This casino boasts 2,700 slot machines, and 150 table games, off-track betting and more! There’s a 24-Hour Poker Room, plus four delicious dining options, and free live entertainment every Friday and Saturday evening from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am.
The Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort is a $1 billion gaming complex built in 2004. Here, you’ll find more than 3000 slot machines and 150 table games spread out among 180,000 square feet. The 500 progressive jackpot machines have paid out some of the largest prizes in Canadian history.
Take in the a show at the Avalon Ballroom where some of the world’s top entertainers perform. Then, browse the collection of unique shops in the Galleria for one-of-a-kind items, and relax with a massage in the spa.
Visit both casinos at www.casinoniagara.com and www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com 
#4. Las Vegas has the “High Roller” Wheel, we have the “Niagara SkyWheel”

Photo cred
Both strips have spectacular observation wheels to view the lit up and dazzling lights. Las Vegas has the world’s tallest wheel at 55o feet (167 metres) high. It holds 28 40-passenger capsules in a glass-lined and temperature-controlled gondola. Niagara Falls has Canada’s largest observation wheel at 175 feet tall (53 metres). Considerably smaller than the High Roller, but majestic in its own right, the Niagara SkyWheel features panoramic views of the entire Niagara skyline including a bird’s-eye view of the incredible Canadian Horseshoe Falls. It too is climate-controlled with two wheelchair accessible gondolas. Each capsule fits 6-8 people.
www.cliftonhill.com/attractions/niagara-skywheel
#5. Visit Our Museums

Las Vegas has quirky museums…and so do we!
Las Vegas has the “Mob Museum”, the Discovery Children’s Museum, National Atomic Testing Museum,the Neon Museum, and Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum.
We have the Movieland Wax Museum, Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks, the Niagara Daredevil Museum, Ripley’s Believe it or Not!, Rock Legends Wax Museum, and the Niagara Falls History Museum to name a few.
The fun doesn’t stop in Las Vegas…and our Canadian version let’s you experience Las Vegas right here in Niagara Falls!


Christine Lynn
clynn@cliftonhill.com
www.cliftonhill.com
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News

War veteran who inspired the play “Invisible Wounds”, visits Clifton Hill

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We were very honoured this Remembrance Day to welcome a special guest to Clifton Hill. 44-year old Canadian war veteran, Ed Brown (from British Columbia), joined the drama students from Niagara Falls’ Stamford Collegiate High School to board the Niagara SkyWheel.
Earlier that day, Stamford Collegiate students performed their Sears Drama Festival-winning play, “Invisible Wounds” in front of Ed Brown, the man in which this play is based upon. Brown wrote a book entitled “A Soldier’s Fortune and Other Poems: Moving past PTSD and creating a fun-loving life.” This book was a way for him to cope with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) after his time in war. PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can develop after a person is exposed to one or more traumatic events, such as sexual assault, warfare, traffic collisions, terrorism or any other threats on a person’s life. In this book, Ed Brown wrote a collection of heart-felt poems — poems in which inspired these students to reach out to the publisher, who in turn contacted Ed Brown. 
Brown was a former soldier who served a 19-year military career. He was sent on peacekeeping missions in Isreal, Syria, Turkey, and the former Yugoslavia, and was so very touched when he found out that students were creating a play adaption of his book. So much so, that he flew over from British Columbia on Remembrance Day to watch the performance himself, thanks to the non-profit organization, Wounded Warriors Canada. Wounded Warriors supports Canada’s ill and injured armed forces members, veterans, plus their families.
“Invisible Wounds” was introduced in May 2015 when Stamford Collegiate hosted a DSBN Mental Health Night in front of teachers and mental health partners. It then went on to receive the top prize at the DSBN’s Sears Drama Festival.
The drama students were so excited to have Ed Brown join them in Niagara Falls that they decided to take him out to dinner, plus give him a tour of Niagara Falls and the Clifton Hill District.
We hope to have him back again soon, and special mention to Stamford Collegiate High School for their amazing production, kind hearts, and for welcoming one of our war heroes around Niagara Falls, Canada.
**About the book: Psychologist Agnes Sawchyn says that Ed writes “with unflinching frankness and emotional honesty… Ed extends a message of hope to others by describing what, in the end, made his journey back to health possible and worth navigating: his love for his children, the apprehension and joy of experiencing new love, the simple beauties of nature, and an irrepressible sense of humour and playfulness.” 



 

 

About “Invisible Wounds” (care of TV Cogeco Niagara)

Christine Lynn

clynn@cliftonhill.com

www.cliftonhill.com

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News

Accessible Niagara: Getting Around Niagara With Mobility Impairments

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*Pictured Above: the Niagara SkyWheel. This attraction contains 2 gondolas fully wheelchair accessible*
If you are planning on travel to Niagara, but someone in your party has mobility issues, there is a website devoted to assist you with your holiday or day trip planning. Accessible Niagara will help to alleviate some of your stress by taking the initiative to test out some of Niagara Falls most popular attractions and report back on which attractions, restaurants and landmarks are easily accessible. You want to be able to fully enjoy your Niagara Falls experience, and Accessible Niagara is a great online resource to make your travel planning to this city a breeze.
Accessible Niagara was founded in the 1990’s by Linda Crabtree, a Niagara native with a condition known as “Charcot-Marie-Tooth” disease (CMT), also known as hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy (HMSN). She hasn’t walked in more than 20 years and uses an electric scooter both outdoors and inside for mobility. Linda set out to make it a mission to help others with similar impairments live a more comfortable life by striving to find and locate those places within Niagara that make traveling an ease.
While navigating through her website, it should be pointed out that within her “Links” section, she also has included accessibility information websites to various other countries around the world, so it’s a great idea to bookmark this site if you plan on travel to anywhere else outside of Canada. Places such as California, Portugal and New Zealand are touched upon, along with many others from some of the hottest points of travel and tourism to date.
No Matter the Niagara Adventure You Want – It’s Covered 

*Pictured Above: Linda on the south side of Clifton Hill — click here for a newspaper article that features which attractions & restaurants she recommends on Clifton Hill.*
Whether you are planning a vacation full of taking in fun attractions on Clifton Hill, an adventurer’s vacation taking in Niagara’s most beautiful scenery (Niagara attractions), or a wining and dining and theatre lover’s trip, Linda has been there with her electric scooter and has constructed a list of the wheelchair accessible facilities that she has been to — right down to wheelchair ramps and the washroom facilities. See the report on attractions here.
She has stayed at a wide variety of hotels in Niagara Falls. Click here to check those out before you book your stay at a Niagara Falls hotel.
No matter your vacation interests, Accessible Niagara even has sample itineraries laid out for your convenience.
Wheelchair and scooter users wanting to visit Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada will find more than 20 barrier-free attractions and services in Niagara Falls on Wheels: Seeing is Believing, a video produced with closed captioning by AccessibleNiagara.com:

Linda is open to suggestions and recommendations, as well as looking into attractions within Niagara Falls that you would like assessed for a future visit to this city. If enough time is allowed, she is willing to check them out — she may have already done so! Accessible Niagara will answer any mobility questions that you may have about this region.
If you have visited Niagara and had an interesting time, please take a few minutes to tell Linda what you did, what you liked, and what you’d recommend.
Contact her via email:  linda@lindacrabtree.com.
www.accessibleniagara.com

Christine Lynn
clynn@cliftonhill.com
www.cliftonhill.com
Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb
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Things To Do

What Do You Do in Niagara Falls when it’s REALLY Cold??

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It’s no secret that we can get some really bitter cold Niagara Falls weather, but what happens on those spine-tingling, mind-numbing days? What is there to do for families and groups traveling from abroad that wish to get a first-hand look at the Niagara Falls without enduring standing outside along the Niagara Parkway battling the Winter elements? Last year brought about temperatures so cold in Canada and parts of the U.S., that the term ‘Polar Vortex’ was used. Quite simply, it is a large pocket of very cold air, typically the coldest air in the Northern hemisphere, that sits over the polar region during the winter season — only it found its way to us. While the weather may be unpleasant to some, it does however translate to gorgeous photos of nature — and the Niagara Falls has made headway around the globe in its partially frozen state. International tourists especially want to take home with them photos of this rare occurence, but what may seem like a really cold day for a Canadian, may be excruciating to someone traveling abroad that is not used to our northerly weather conditions. So where can you go to take some good quality pictures of the Niagara Falls in all its majestic icy beauty without being uncomfortably cold?
 Skylon Tower
The Skylon Tower Observation Deck takes the viewer 775 feet above the Falls. The elevator ride is a 52-second trip to the viewing platform, and from there you are treated to some beautiful, clear aerial shots of the majestic wonder. From this vantage point, you’ll see as far as 8,000 square miles of Canada and the U.S. At night, the illumination of the Falls from far below is a favourite among visiting tours.
*Click here for the 2015 Niagara Falls Illumination Schedule*

 *The Wintery View from the indoor observation deck of the Skylon Tower*
The Skylon Tower offers 360 views of the Niagara Falls and the entire Niagara landscape!
For group pricing information and inquiries, please contact:
Phone: 1-905-356-2651 or 1- 800-814-9577
Reservations: ext 226
Prices: ext 211
Email: groupsales@skylon.com
Fax: 1-905-356-8699
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Table Rock Welcome Centre
For the closest indoor views of the Horseshoe Falls, nothing beats the indoor viewing spectrum that the Table Rock Welcome Centre offers. Located at 6650 Niagara Parkway, close to 8 million visitors take advantage of the views from here annually — and it’s a very popular “go-to” during the frigid Winter months. Best of all, the viewing platform is free and the centre is fully accessible to wheelchairs.

*The viewing platform inside the Table Rock — gorgeous and spacious!*
Please call the Niagara Parks at: (877) 642-7275 for further information.
The Niagara SkyWheel
Climb aboard the Niagara SkyWheel for views that stretch well past the Niagara horizon in all directions! You’ll see the American and Horseshoe Falls in all its beauty, plus a full view of the Niagara River and many other famous landmarks. This spectacular observation wheel sits atop the peak of Clifton Hill , plus it towers 175 feet (53 metres) high in addition to that. The aerial view is breathtaking, and each of the 42 gondolas (2 of which are wheelchair accessible) are climate-controlled to ensure comfortable seating. The gondolas may hold up to eight passengers and this 8-12 minute ride will leave the viewer with lasting memories and top-notch photos to share with their loved ones.

*A few photos taken aboard the Niagara Skywheel*
The Niagara Skywheel operates year round, including all holidays from dawn to dusk. Group Tours are welcome and are a frequent part of the business during the Winter months.
Call 905-358-4793 for hours of operation, ticket prices and group booking information.

Attractions

Hornblower Niagara Evening Cruises

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Canada’s newest Niagara Falls attraction and the only company on the Canadian side of the Niagara River permitted to operate boat tours of the Falls, the Hornblower Niagara Cruises has been off to a great start since its opening date of May 15, 2014 (see blog here to read about the ribbon cutting ceremony last month). In  just a month, thousands of travelers have flocked to be a part of riding one of the two catamarans — the Niagara Wonder and the Niagara Thunder. Each catamaran holds up to 700 passengers, with a private charter and special events boat, labeled the Guardian, that seats 150 passengers comfortably.
Until recently, we have only become acquainted with Hornblower Niagara Cruises first and foremost tour option: The Voyage to the Falls. This tour provides an up-close viewing of the magnificent Great Gorge, American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and of course the mighty Horseshoe Falls. For the utmost closest daytime views of the Niagara Falls, this is the tour to choose for an intimate encounter with Canada’s wonder.
However, this month has introduced something truly special — three other options: The Sunset Cocktail Cruise, the Falls Illumination Cruise and the Falls Fireworks Cruise.
Hornblower Niagara Evening Cruises
 The Sunset Cocktail Cruise

Hornblower Niagara’s Sunset Cocktail Cruise is an extended 30-minute evening tour. Set to evening sunsets this half-hour cruise is the ultimate Niagara Falls romance experience. Complete with on-board licensed bar and light snacks, guests can savor fine Niagara wines and beverages while enjoying Niagara Falls at dusk. The boats board at 8:00 pm, are cruising by 8:15 pm and disembarking by 8:45 pm, allowing the ideal “sunset” time for photo opportunities and memory sharing. Adults (13+) are $35.00 (+HST), Children (5-12) are $31.50 (+HST) and toddlers and infants 4 and under are free.
The Falls Illumination Cruise

Hornblower Niagara’s Falls Illumination Cruise is a truly amazing experience! We’ve all seen the beauty of the Falls Illumination and its dazzling lights and colour displays, but to see them up close and personal is extraordinary. Like the Sunset Cocktail Cruise before it, this too is a 30-minute evening tour the features an on-board licensed bar and snacks. Check out the “Mist Retail” souvenir shop located in the “Grand View Marketplace” on your way in to board the catamaran. Here, you will find merchandise to make your Hornblower Niagara Evening Cruise a heightened experience. Like the photo above, glow sticks are available for purchase here to accentuate your trip, along with additional ponchos (although they are provided free of charge) and any other souvenirs you wish to carry and remember your trip by. The Falls Illumination Cruise boards at 9:30 pm, sets sail from 9:45 pm – 10:15 pm, and then disembarks by 10:15 pm. Adults (13+) are $35.00 (+HST), Children (5-12) are $31.50 (+HST) and  toddlers and infants 4 and under are free.
Falls Fireworks Cruise

If the Falls Illumination isn’t enough, how about something truly dramatic? The Hornblower Niagara’s Falls Fireworks Cruise is it! Operating on  Fridays, Sundays and Holidays from May 9th to November 30th, plus Wednesday’s June 18th – August 27th (*Fireworks subject to weather), this 30-minute evening tour features an on-board licensed bar and snacks, capped off with a “bang” with the famous Niagara Falls fireworks show at 10:00 pm. The Falls Fireworks Cruise boards at 9:30 pm, sets sail from 9:45 pm – 10:15 pm, and then disembarks by 10:15 pm. Adults (13+) are $35.00 (+HST), Children (5-12) are $31.50 (+HST) and  toddlers and infants 4 and under are free.
Hornblower Niagara Cruises also introduces group tour experiences, complete with VIP benefits, which include:
– Extended operating hours
– Date and Time select reservations
– Dedicated motor-coach reception
– Exclusive Group Check-In
– Express Group admission to boarding
– Direct billing and voucher privileges
– All major credit cards accepted
– Downloadable promotional material
*Available in 8 languages, Hornblower Niagara Cruises offers its guests a souvenir audio tour to accompany you on the boat, and to take home with you. It’s a 30-minute narrative providing you with rich history and interesting facts as you take the tour.* 
Looking for a different perspective and view of the Falls illumination and fireworks at night? Instead of from below the Niagara Falls, trying viewing the illumination and fireworks shows from above aboard the Niagara SkyWheel . You’ve never seen views like this from 175 feet (53 metres) high above the Niagara landscape. This 8-12 minute rotating journey will give you panoramic views of Niagara’s most majestic wonder! Summer-time sees extended hours on the SkyWheel, with closing times of 2:00 am, and the opportunity to time it right with the Falls Fireworks. Reservations are not made here, but if you have a group inquiry or a tour, you should schedule a ticket pick-up time well in advance of the fireworks shows. It’s a good idea to arrive 30 minutes before Falls fireworks shows at 10:00 pm. 9:15 pm – 9:30 pm is ideal to increase your chances of being on the Niagara SkyWheel during the firing of Canada’s longest running fireworks series.

For more information on any of these cruises please visit Hornblower Niagara Cruises online at www.niagaracruises.com, and for group inquiries and booking please email at:  groups@niagaracruises.com or call 905-394-3040.
For group inquiries at the Niagara SkyWheel please contact Lisa at gcm@cliftonhill.com or call 1-800-801-8557.

Christine Lynn
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Attractions

Niagara SkyWheel — Canada’s ONLY SkyWheel!

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It is Canada’s largest observation wheel — the Niagara SkyWheel. Towering 175 feet (53 metres) over the Niagara Falls horizon, the Niagara SkyWheel has been the newest, most exciting way to see Niagara Falls since its conception in 2006. While 175 feet may seem high enough, it is in fact, an additional 150 feet higher than even that, due to its location on the peak of Clifton Hill. This gives its viewers a 325 feet (99 metres) vantage point that will leave them treated to memorable views of the Horseshoe and American Falls, the Niagara River, Niagara Parks and other landmarks.
This observation wheel is Canada’s only SkyWheel, and its one that offers dazzling views of the Niagara Skyline and one of the most beautiful wonders of the world in its sight. The others are located in: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina which measures 187 feet (57 metres), the Atlanta SkyView which measures 180 feet (55 metres), the Las Vegas SkyVue, which reaches a height of 500 ft (152 metres), and finally, the London Eye peaking at 443 feet (135 metres).
 *Myrtle Beach SkyWheel*
 *Atlanta SkyView*
 * Las Vegas SkyVue*
 *London Eye*
The Niagara Skywheel has made quite the reputation in Niagara Falls for offering once-in-a-lifetime views at the most reasonable rate for group tours. Due to the large amount of traffic the SkyWheel sees from international tourists, the ride caters to these groups with group rate discounts. Adults (13+) pay only $8.00 (including tax), and children pay only $5.00 (including tax). This SkyWheel is open from 9:00am to 2:00am in the peak season, and the late hours contribute to two differing views of the landscape. Both equally as beautiful, and both grasping the attention of tourists from around the globe who want to be part of this phenomenal view. Large and small, no group is turned away and the photos taken are memories to cherish and take home to their country to share.

*For information on the hours of operation for your time of travel and group booking information, please call 905-358-4793.
Each Niagara SkyWheel gondola holds up to eight passengers, and the ride operators load and unload six cabins at a time. Since each ride lasts anywhere from 8-12 minutes (approx. 3 full revolutions), the line moves fairly quickly. All gondolas are fully enclosed and are equipped with air conditioning and heating, which means the ride remains open year round (including all holidays).  The glass is non-reflective to offer great views and accommodate picture-taking. There are 42 gondolas, with 2 that are wheelchair accessible.
Huffington Post is the most recent to rave about the Niagara Skywheel, labeling it as one of the top 5 most incredible ferris wheels in the world…without a doubt it is a must-see! Read the article here.

Christine Lynn
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News

Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel Renovations Are Now Complete!

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Walking down the glitz and glamour of everything exciting on Fallsview Boulevard, you would be amiss to not notice one hotel that stands high above the rest. The Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel soars 53 storeys above the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls — and 2013 marks the year of completely renovated top-to-bottom room renovations and an almost unrecognizable lobby. I sat down with Jim Graham, the Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel Director of Marketing, to get the inside scoop on what’s new at the hotel — and was given a first-hand tour of this remarkable hotel.

*Jim Graham and I at the Spyce Lounge*
“The south tower has seen significant renovations, and all 500 guest rooms are completely renovated from top to bottom. We have two new food and beverage outlets and our Watermark Restaurant has been refreshed as well” said Graham.


“It has been 13 years since the Hilton’s south tower has seen significant renovations and its floor to ceiling upgrades match those of the north tower” said Graham.
The north tower was constructed in 2009 and houses 450 rooms. Walking through this hotel, I was immediately struck by the modern and up-to-date facade of the Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel. Everything is neutral tones of dark browns and beige. The whole hotel is fresh and spacious, and gives a spectacular view of the majestic Niagara Falls and surrounding landscape. Just check out this photo I took out of one of the rooms in the south tower!

“The renovations are in the tens of millions of dollars” said Graham, adding that the Watermark Restaurant has been given a sweep over as well. That being said, off to the 33rd floor we went to check out the ambient floor to ceiling design. Once I stepped inside the restaurant, it felt like I walked into a page out of Greek Mythology. An indoor waterfall, sculptures of Sea Gods in the walls, and shades of blue and white met my eye. The view was magnificent! The entire wall was a wide open window giving a one-of-a-kind view of the Falls. The menu has also been revised, adding additional farm-to-table continental cuisine from Executive Chef Tim O’Donnell and his team.

 *The Watermark Restaurant is open daily from 5:00pm – 10:00pm. Please call 905-353-7138 to book reservations.
The Watermark Fallsview Restaurant specializes in group dining programs for local and International clients.  In addition to the sensational, panoramic view from 555 feet above the Niagara River, the restaurant offers:
  • Deluxe Breakfast and Buffet
  • A la Carte Dinner, Early Dinner Specials
  • Fallsview Roof Top Dining on the 33rd & 34th floors
  • Multi-level seating
  • Oversized windows 18 feet in height
For Group Tour and FIT information, please contact:
Jeff Andison, Director of Tour & Travel
1-800-339-5023 or jeff.andison@niagarafallshilton.com
Jim and I conducted our meeting at the all-new Spyce lounge situated in the lobby. “Our lobby has broadened to make way for the Spyce Lounge and the market cafe”. Only open since September 2013, the contemporary street-level lounge features live entertainment nightly, and the cafe, which features a touch of familiarity with Starbucks and a relatively new novelty frozen yogurt self-serve bar, Yogurty’s , adds to the company’s desire to provide a competitive edge in the industry. “Typically, it’s important to renovate our properties to ensure the hotel remains up to date and that the interior reflects the trend of current styles”, said Graham.

“This project has been in development for years and represents the completion of our vision” said Graham.
Looking around, the Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel really is in the center of it all with an indoor glass walkway that leads directly to the Fallsview Casino Resort. You have world-class dining and attractions such as the 175 foot tall Niagara Skywheel, right at your fingertips. The renovations came at the right time with the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights fully underway until January 31st, 2014. Watch as the Niagara Falls illumination really captures the magic of Christmas with over 125 lighted displays along the Niagara Parkway and spectacular fireworks that light up the sky over the Falls.
The hotel is within close proximity of Clifton Hill, the main tourist promenade within Niagara Falls. The Winter Festival of Lights wouldn’t be complete without a picturesque photo of the entire landscape of displays, and the estimated 3 million Christmas lights captured all from the bird-eye view that the Niagara Skywheel offers its customers. Best of all, the wheel caters to groups and is open day to night to accommodate two different views of the wonder of the Niagara Falls. To inquire about group bookings, rates and hours of operation on the Niagara Skywheel please call 905-358-4793.


After meeting with Jim, I took a look around the hotel and snapped some additional photos. The lobby, Brasa Brazilian Steakhouse , and of course the spacious 50,000 square feet meeting rooms that accommodate small intimate gatherings of 10 people, to large corporate functions and formal banquets of up to 625 people, were on my list to capture on camera.


 
For meeting and conference information, please contact Mary Ann Quait, Director of Corporate Sales at 905-353-7124.

Christine Lynn
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Attractions

People on Clifton Hill!

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Here is a little photo album of some people and families out and about and enjoying themselves on Clifton Hill!


Come and bring your family and friends for a getaway full of adventure and fun in Niagara Falls. Clifton Hill has it all — attractions, restaurants and shopping galore! It’s impossible to get bored on the street known around the world as the “Street of Fun by the Falls” — Clifton Hill!

Christine
www.cliftonhill.com
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