Construction started on the Rainbow Bridge May 4th, 1940, marking a significant chapter in the history of cross-border connectivity at Niagara Falls at the time. The responsibility for the administration and maintenance of all bridges spanning the Niagara River fell under the jurisdiction of the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission. The inspiration for the Rainbow Bridge took root during the Royal Tour of Canada in the previous year when King George VI and Queen Elizabeth dedicated the future site.
Named after the original “Honeymoon Bridge,” which collapsed on January 27, 1938, due to an ice jam in the river, the Rainbow Bridge stands as a resilient steel arch bridge, linking Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, to Niagara Falls, New York, in the United States.
Honeymoon Bridge
Designed by architect Richard (Su Min) Lee, the newly christened Rainbow Bridge was strategically positioned 500 feet north of the former “Honeymoon Bridge,” placing it 1000 feet north of the American Falls. To prevent a recurrence of the past mishap, the abutments and approach spans were anchored on solid rock, 50 feet from the river’s edge and 50 feet above the water surface.
Rainbow Bridge early construction, 1940 (Archives & Special Collections, Brock University Library)
Approximately 3500 tons of steel formed the two ribs, with an additional 2000 tons used in the superstructure and decking. A closing section of steel, around 11 inches in measurement, connected the 475-foot sections extending from each shore. The final masterpiece of the Rainbow Bridge boasts a deck height of 202 feet above the water surface, a length of 1450 feet, two 22-foot-wide roadways separated by a 4-foot-wide median, and a 10-foot-wide sidewalk along the south side, providing a spectacular view of the Falls.
11/3/1941: The rainbow bridge at Niagara Falls was formally opened during the week-end. A rainbow made its appearance shortly afterward. Hoisting the Canadian flag is Hon. T. B. McQuesten; and on his LEFT are Dr. Norman V. Leslie of Hamilton and C. Elliston Kauymeyer; bridge manager
On November 1st, 1941, the Rainbow Bridge officially opened its gates, becoming a vital international link. Currently, commercial trucks are prohibited from using the bridge, with alternative routes suggested, like the Queenston-Lewiston Bridge approximately 16 km to the north. The Rainbow Bridge is known for its efficiency, featuring 16 car inspection lanes into the U.S. and 15 into Canada. Designated lanes for tour buses and a Pedestrian Walkway add to the bridge’s versatility.
For those planning to cross the border, a visit to the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission website is recommended to review current conditions. It offers real-time updates on wait times, lane closures, and even provides traffic camera footage for a visual preview of the border crossings.
Whether a testament to engineering prowess or an iconic pathway for those journeying between nations, the Rainbow Bridge stands tall as a historical marvel.
Embark on an extraordinary photography adventure in Niagara Falls during the 2023/2024 fireworks season!
Immerse yourself in a magical evening in Niagara Falls, where majestic fireworks light up the sky, casting a mesmerizing glow over the iconic American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Witness the enchanting fusion of nature’s beauty and captivating pyrotechnics. Let the sights and sounds of this breathtaking spectacle ignite your sense of wonder and admiration.
FIREWORKS SCHEDULE 2023/2024
December: 1,2,8,9,15,16, 22 – 30 at 8:00pm
December 31: (NYE) at 8:00 pm and 12:00am (midnight)
January: 1-7 at 8:00pm
#1 Along the Niagara Parkway
When the fireworks go off, any location along the Niagara Parkway from the bottom of Clifton Hill to the Table Rock Complex will get you a one-of-a-kind view! The route is fully illuminated along this stretch of the Niagara Parkway to the Horseshoe Falls.
#2 Dino Adventure Golf
The best mini-putt experience in Niagara Falls is Dinosaur Adventure Golf! Play through this dinosaur-filled prehistoric realm to experience an exhilarating and never-to-be-forgotten mini-putting adventure. Dinosaur Adventure Golf enables participants to fully immerse themselves in a fascinating world of the lost, making it the ideal activity for families, friends, couples, or business outings.
#3 Skylon Tower
No matter the season, the Skylon Tower offers fantastic views of the fireworks via 775 feet up in the air! Take the elevator up to the Observation Deck, and take in the 360 degree view for miles in every direction. You will get a view of Niagara Falls, the Niagara River, and even the Toronto Skyline and Buffalo on the American side.
#4 Queen Victoria Park
Probably the best place of all to witness the fireworks is at Queen Victoria Park. The park is spacious, and you are welcome to bring your lawnchairs and sit back and relax. During the Winter Festival of Lights, the scene is extra pretty with trees decked out in festive lights, and the historic Zimmerman Fountain in dazzling lights. It’s a magical Christmas-time view.
#5 Rainbow Bridge
You’ll get a phenomenal view of the fireworks from this standpoint on the Rainbow Bridge. Absolutely no obstructions will be in the picture looking out over the Niagara River between the Canadian and US border. Make sure you have .50 cents to cross from the Canadian to American side. There is a coin machine next to the turnstile to make change. You do not show your passport/visa until you arrive on the American side from Canada.
#6 Niagara SkyWheel
The Niagara SkyWheel soars 175 feet above the peak of Clifton Hill, allowing an even higher perspective to look out over the Niagara Falls. This gives you an incredible view of the fireworks show as you rotate. You will need to time yourself to be on the ride when the fireworks occur, so we recommend that you buy tickets and get in line approximately 20 minutes to a half hour before the show begins.
#7 Niagara City Fireworks Night Cruise
Niagara City Cruises offers great views, when you board the Falls Fireworks Cruise. There is nothing that can compare to the sight of fireworks going off over Niagara Falls to make your trip memorable. Take a 40-minute Falls Fireworks Cruise to view Niagara Falls at night, which departs from Canada’s Niagara Falls. Set sail for starry skies, expansive views of the skyline, breathtaking illuminations, and, of course, sky-filling fireworks.
#8 Oakes Garden Theatre
This spectacular garden is the entranceway to Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Parks’ centerpiece that showcases the Falls. Located at the foot of Clifton Hill, this is the perfect spot for a superb panoramic view of the American and Horseshoe Falls. This spectacular garden is the entranceway to Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Parks’ centerpiece that showcases the Falls.
Prepare to be captivated by the Falls Fireworks Series, a renowned event presented by Niagara Parks that showcases over 100 dazzling fireworks displays annually.
Reading Time: 5minutes -*Pictured Above: The Rainbow Bridge – Photo Cred: Christine Hess Photography
More Americans are traveling into Canada this Summer, and this past July 4th weekend has been the busiest since 2007. This is fantastic news to the Canadian economy that took a hit since 2001, largely in part to the 9/11 terrorism attacks. That, combined with new passport requirements, saw less and less of our American friends crossing the border into Canada. However, the old saying “time heals all wounds” rings true when it comes to the desire to travel again. And travel is most definitely picking up with the U.S. citizens into Canada — we are seeing more and more Americans traveling into Canada at the Niagara Falls border crossings, and less Canadians traveling into the states due to the current Canadian dollar. As it stands, 1 US dollar is worth about 1.29 Canadian.
Many of the Americans that are traveling into Canada are either doing it for the first time, or the first time in a long time. So here is what you need to know about Niagara Falls Border Crossing:
We have 3 main border crossings into Niagara Falls, plus the Whirlpool Bridge for NEXUS travelers ONLY:
This bridge connects Niagara Falls, N.Y., with Niagara Falls, Ontario. The Whirlpool Bridge is reserved for subscribers to NEXUS, a program for pre-approved clearance. NEXUS speeds border crossings and is open to residents of both the U.S. and Canada. Restrictions
**No commercial trucks
**No pedestrians
**No bicycles
**Nothing in tow
The Queenston-Lewiston Bridge
This bridge connects Lewiston, N.Y., with Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Restrictions
**No pedestrians Number of Customs inspection lanes
Six (6) car inspection lanes. Four (4) truck inspection lanes into the U.S.
Ten (10) car inspection lanes. Five (5) truck lanes into Canada.
Duty Free Stores: Canada (www.dutytaxfree.com) US (www.dutyfreeamericas.com)
The Peace Bridge
This bridge connects Buffalo, N.Y., with Fort Erie, Ontario Restrictions
**None Number of Customs inspection lanes
Eighteen (18) inspection lanes (11 for passenger vehicles, 7 commercial) into the U.S.
Twenty (20) inspection lanes (15 for passenger vehicles, 5 commercial) into Canada.
Duty Free Stores: Canada (www.dutyfree.ca) US (www.dutyfreeamericas.com) **If you have any questions about what documents are required to cross the borders, obtaining a VISA, and for LIVE camera views of the Peace Bridge and Ontario Highways, click here.
Know What ID is Necessary:
All visitors arriving to Canada need a passport or passport equivalent. (If you are traveling soon, you can get a passport within 24 hrs with Rushmypassport.com.)
**U.S. citizens ages 15 or younger with parental consent will be allowed to cross the borders at land and sea entry points with certified copies of their birth certificates rather than passports.
Have a Note for Children Traveling without Both Parents:
Adults traveling over the border into Canada with children who are not their own should have a written note from the parents or guardians giving permission for the children to leave the country. The permission should include the name and contact information of the parent / guardian.
As stated earlier, the most accessible Niagara Falls border crossing to get to Clifton Hill and to view the majestic Niagara Falls is by accessing the Rainbow Bridge. *Above: A shot of the Niagara SkyWheel — just one attraction of many located on Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Canada, just minutes from the gorgeous Niagara Falls*
Tips for crossing the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls:
1.) Enroll in NEXUS and E-ZPass to expedite your border crossing. NEXUS expedites the border clearance process for low-risk, pre-approved travelers into Canada and the United States. NEXUS dedicated customs inspection lanes are available in the Niagara Region at the Rainbow Bridge. E-ZPass is an electronic toll collection technology that makes traveling more convenient, helps reduce traffic congestion, and saves you money at the Peace Bridge by reducing fuel consumption and saving you 10% off the cash toll rate.
2.) Choose which bridge to take. Make an informed decision when deciding which bridge to cross by checking the CBSA website or CBP website to see what their posted wait times are for Niagara Region international bridges or http://www.niagarafallsbridges.com/. You can also call 1-800-715-6722 to get the wait times for Niagara Region international bridges. These options are updated hourly. Have proper identification ready to present to the Customs agent. Click here to view border identification requirements.
3.) If traveling with children who are not part of your immediate family, have a note from the parents that their child has permission to cross the border with you. The note should include telephone numbers where the children’s parents can be reached.
4.) Turn off radios and cell phones when talking to Customs agents.
5.) Declare all fruits, vegetables, plants and plant products, animals, birds, eggs, meat and meat products.
6.) Declare all items acquired for personal use.
7.) Do not fool around. Customs and Immigration agents on both sides of the border are law enforcement officials who take their duties very seriously. Approach inspection booths slowly and follow signage instructions.
8.) Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
9.) Be patient. Customs agents are responsible for protecting our nations’ borders and public safety.
10.) Check and empty your truck beforehand. Unnecessary items in your trunk may be a source of questioning by border officials and may add time to your border crossing.
11.) Upon arriving at the Canada Border Services booth, roll down both your front and back windows so that the border officer can address people seated in the back of the vehicle as well.
Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls Parking
Once you cross the border into Canada, you’ll want to descend upon the Niagara Falls area to take in the Falls and all the surrounding attractions and events. You don’t need to struggle to find parking with a large parking area, in the middle of it all, on Clifton Hill!
It’s a short walk from the Fallsview Casino and their adjoining restaurants, and it comes complete with a jolly cut that allows you to bypass crowds and get from the parking lot to the Queen Victoria Park and Falls in a matter of seconds. Watch the Niagara Falls fireworks shows, go on a boat cruise with the Hornblower Niagara Cruises, and/or try out the all-new WildPlay Niagara Zipline to the Falls!
Click the image below for information on Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls Parking central to it all:
Reading Time: 5minutes -*Pictured Above: The Old Clifton Place (Bush Estate House) on Clifton Hill
Here’s a look at a couple of Niagara Falls’ most prominent spots, and a look at what used to be situated on the land where these Niagara Falls landmarks now stand. Rainbow Bridge *Photo taken from the Niagara SkyWheel* The Rainbow Bridge and its famous arch structure connects Niagara Falls, New York,USA to Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada over the Niagara River gorge. It’s not uncommon to see a rainbow just upstream from the bridge, which is how the name “Rainbow Bridge” came to be.
The Rainbow Bridge began construction in May 1940, and was officially opened on November 1, 1941. This bridge replaces the “Honeymoon Bridge” (1898-1938), however it is new in that it was constructed 500 feet north of its previous position. The “Honeymoon Bridge” collapsed on January 27, 1938 after an ice jam in the river. To assure its safety, the Rainbow Bridge abutments and approach spans rest on solid rock high enough on the sides of the gorge. To ensure its safety, the girders were situated much higher Click here for more about the Rainbow Bridge and how it came to be. *Pictured Above: The “Honeymoon Bridge” upon collapsing in January 1938* Skylon Tower
The Skylon Tower is Niagara’s tallest structure, measuring 520 feet above ground level and 775 feet above the base of the Falls. It was inspired by the Space Needle Tower in Seattle, Washington, and was built by the general contractor, Piggott’s Construction Company. Construction began in May 1964, and was officially open to the public on September 31st 1965. It was on October 28th 1964, that the tower was officially named the “Skylon Tower”. The company president at that time, Edward Bull Jr., described the name as meaning a “space aged version of a skyscraper”. *Pictured Above: A timeline of the Skylon Tower in 1964 to current*
Prior to the Skylon Tower, the land was leased from Mr. George Sainovich and the New York Central Railway in which it was being used as a parking lot — which only cost .50 cents to park for the whole day!
Here’s an old article from the Niagara Falls Gazette, dated December 5, 1965 in which it tells the story of how the idea for the Skylon Tower was derived.
Clifton Hill
Long before Clifton Hill became known as “the Street of Fun by the Falls”, it owed its roots and name to one man — Captain Ogden Creighton. He was an officer in the British army who had served with the 70th and 81st Regiments in various parts of the world, including the Far East. Around 1830, Captain Creighton came to Niagara Falls and acquired a sizeable tract of land on what is now the south side of Clifton Hill as well as the area just beyond the top of the hill. He had this land surveyed and laid out for a town site, which he named Clifton, presumably after Clifton on the gorge of the River Avon in Bristol, England. On the edge of the high bank facing the American Falls, Captain Creighton built his own residence, naming it Clifton Cottage. It stood where the Great Canadian Midway is now located. The Creighton family left Niagara Falls in the early 1840s, moving first to Toronto and then Brantford, Ontario. Captain Creighton died at about 1850. Clifton Hill was known as Ferry Road since 1834, when small rowboats were utilized to transport people across the Niagara River between Canada and the USA (approximately where the Hornblower Niagara Cruises loading dock sits). In 1842, a man named Samuel Zimmerman created an estate property along the south side of Ferry Hill, and called it “Clifton Place”. On his estate, Zimmerman undertook to create many gardens and several large fountains, including the “Zimmerman Fountain” which still exists down in Queen Victoria Park. The estate of Samuel Zimmerman occupied the entire south side of Ferry Hill, and today this property is owned by HOCO (Harry Oakes Company). He was killed on March 12th 1857 in the Desjardins Canal Railway accident. Senator John T. Bush of Buffalo, New York bought his estate, along with the adjoining properties. Senator Bush fixed up the estate and lived there with his family for over 50 years. Upon his death was when tourism really started to boom, and his wife sold their property to Sir Harry Oakes. It was shortly after then that the entire “Ferry Hill” (Clifton Hill) property started to cater to tourism. In the 1950’s the Park Motor Hotel (which eventually became known as the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill), and the Fallsway Hotel (which later became the Quality Inn, and now the site of the Niagara SkyWheel) were built on a large portion of that estate. In November 1965, the old Clifton Gate House located on the south side Clifton Hill was demolished to make way for the Hollywood Wax Museum. It is from approximately the mid-60’s that Clifton Hill really became known as the “Street of Fun by the Falls” with all its hotels, attractions, souvenir shops, and restaurants popping up.
*Pictured Above: “Clifton Place”. The grassy area in the foreground now stands all the attractions on the south side of Clifton Hill (HOCO property)*
“Journey Behind the Falls”
Ever wondered how the “Journey Behind the Falls” attraction came to be? The curiosity of viewing the Falls was always there, and people used to scale down walls and rock just to try and catch a glimpse of is natural wonder. In 1818 the first enclosed stairs were built, and a spiral staircase was created in 1832 making way for the “Sheet of Falling Water” attraction.
In 1885 when the Niagara Parks Commission was created in order to oversee the area, the commissioners removed the staircase and installed a water hydraulic powered elevator shortly afterwards in 1887. The first tunnels were created in 1889, and in 1902 the hydraulic lift was taken over by the Ontario Power Company. In exchange for using the elevator, the Ontario Power Company agreed to sink a shaft through the rock to create a new tunnel that an electric elevator could descend down.
The Table Rock Complex began to be built in 1925 in which this elevator was duplicated, and the “Scenic Tunnels” attraction began.
Since then, new tunnels were cut into the rock, and in 1994, the name “Scenic Tunnels” was changed to the “Journey Behind the Falls”.
*Pictured Above: Table Rock “Scenic Tunnels” circa 1930’s (Photo cred: Niagara Falls Library)*
For some Niagara Falls facts, FAQ’s, trivia, and to learn a little bit more about the history of some Niagara Falls landmarks and its early settlers, click here.
