It’s the most famous waterfall in the world, but Niagara Falls has plenty of other fun facts you may not have ever heard of.
Niagara Falls isn’t just one waterfall – it’s three:
The Horseshoe (or Canadian),
The American, and
The Bridal Veil Falls.
All three begin at the Niagara River in Ontario, but the falls straddle the American-Canadian border.
Danger, High Voltage!
The Niagara Power Plant generates 2.4 million kilowatts of power and is the fourth largest hydroelectric power plant in America. The Falls have been generating power since 1881, and by 1896 the plant was transmitting electricity to Buffalo over 40 kilometres away.
Tourists love it
Every year, Niagara Falls gets 30 million visitors and this figure increases each year. Many opt for a quick snap, while others choose to take the famous Maid of the Mist boat tour which passes through the Falls’ mist.
Don’t Look Down…
The very first person to cross Niagara Falls by tightrope did so in 1859. It took another 116 years for the next person to repeat the same feat in 2012. Daredevil Nik Wallenda completed this terrifying challenge after getting permission from both the American and Canadian governments –he had to show his passport when he reached the Canadian side.
Fools Beware
Some have attempted stunts, going over the falls in kayaks, barrels and even a jet ski, though most sadly perished. Curiously enough, the first person to ever go over in a barrel was an elderly music teacher called Annie Taylor. On her 63rd birthday she went over in a custom-made barrel. She survived to tell the tale.
Ready-made rainbow
If you stand on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls you’re almost always guaranteed to see a rainbow. Probably one of the most camera-worthy opportunities there is.
It’s not the World’s Highest Waterfall
Contrary to popular belief, Niagara Falls isn’t actually the highest waterfall in the world. There are about 500 waterfalls across the planet that rank taller than NF. It’s simply the sheer volume of water that makes it so impressive.
A-List Attraction
Countless films have been shot at Niagara Falls including Superman II, Pirates of the Caribbean and 1953’s Niagara starring Marylyn Monroe.
Swimming Downstream
Surprisingly, fish manage to travel down the Falls with a 90% survival rate thanks to a cushion of foam at the bottom.
Speedy Waters
They’re not the highest waterfalls, but Niagara Falls is the fastest moving waterfall on earth. Just above the falls in the Upper Rapids, the speed of the water can reach 68 kilometres per hour.
Love is in the Falls
Many would think a deserted beach getaway would be the most popular honeymoon destination, but Niagara Falls is in fact one of the world’s favourite locations for newlyweds. There must be something in the water…