Wednesday, June 25, 2008

NIAGARA FALLS

RADHE KRISHNA 25-06-08

Trip to Niagara Falls on 27-06-08 with Ragavendran Viji Lekaha, Malvika and Raja Surya

Photo taken in the boat in Niagara falls visit

Niagara Falls

Fire works at Niagara Falls on 27-06-08

NIAGARA FALLS


At 56 metres (180 ft) high, the American Falls is slightly higher than its Canadian counterpart. Its crestline is 328 metres (1075 ft) wide.


The American Falls look spectacular at night, when it is lit with various combinations of coloured lights.


Over the last century the American Falls has undergone a dramatic face lift due to natural forces of erosion.


The natural bedrock is composed of soft shale and limestone. Over the years the continual flow of water causes large sections of bedrock to fall and remain at the base of the cataracts.


Geologists predict that eventually the American Falls will transform into a succession of descending rapids. The diversion of water above the falls has slowed the forces of erosion. It is estimated that 75,000 gallons of water flow over the American Falls each second, amounting to only 10% of Niagara's total waterflow.


No one has ever dared to conquer the American Falls in a barrel. All daredevil activities have always concentrated on the Canadian Horseshoe Falls because it has a larger waterflow and fewer rocks at its basin.


Welcome To Bird Kingdom at the Niagara Falls Aviary THE WORLD'S LARGEST, FREE FLYING, INDOOR AVIARY!


Niagaras most unique adventure begins here! Over 400 free flying birds await you in our multi-level rainforest! Have a giant Macaw sit on your arm, feed our Australian Rainbow Lorikeets, see a bat colony just inches away from you or simply bask in the marvels of nature as you walk among 35 foot tall palm trees, a 40 foot waterfall and hundreds of unique birds from around the world just a few feet away!



Nine kilometers north of the Falls along the Niagara Parkway is the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and School of Horticulture. Established in 1936, it features a highly-respected residential school for training horticultural students. Horticultural excellence is the keynote of the School of Horticulture. One hundred acres of immaculately maintained gardens provide a visual feast for some three quarters of a million visitors annually. The visitor may schedule an overall view of a great variety of gardens in an afternoon self-guided tour-or may linger for days or even weeks to savour the subtleties of the plant world as seen in the herb garden, the vegetable garden, the rose garden or the splendid arboretum, embracing one of Canada's finest collections of several hundred trees and shrubs.


A butterfly is the closest we will ever see to flowers in flight. Their meandering flight patterns seem to paint the room with colour. Exotic greenery and flowing water set the stage for the fluttering and soaring of several hundred butterflies.


Dozens of different species of butterflies move through the climate-controlled 1,022 sq metre(11,000 sq. ft.) conservatory. Enjoy the butterflies as you make your way along a 180 metre (600 ft.) network of paths. In the Emergence area, watch as the butterflies make their way out of their chrysalides. There is a wide variety of foliage inside the conservatory, so the butterflies always have a source of food from the plants in bloom. As you walk along the pathways, look closely and carefully observe the grace and agility of these beautiful creatures of flight. You might even catch a glimpse of them feeding, uncoiling their mouthparts to sip nectar from the colourful flowers. The Butterfly Conservatory is located 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) north of Niagara Falls in the heart of the world-renowned Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.


Just Outside: Visitors can meet some native butterflies in the outdoor Butterfly Garden, depending on weather conditions. This garden attracts many of the species of butterflies native to Ontario with plants such as Butterfly Bush, Purple Coneflower and Joe Pye Weed. Go beyond the outdoor Butterfly Garden and enjoy the 40 hectare (80 acre) Botanical Gardens.



About 12,000 years ago, Niagara Falls was 11 kilometres (7 miles) downstream from its present location. Until the early 1950s, the Falls eroded at the average rate of one metre (3 feet) per year.


Since then, major water diversions have spread out the flow more evenly, slowing the rate of erosion at the Falls. These include the Sir Adam Beck #2 Generating Station (1954) on the Canadian side of the border, the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant (1961) on the American side of the Niagara River, and the International Control Works (1954-1963).


Horseshoe Falls Fast Facts



  • The Canadian Falls is approximately 52 metres(170 ft) high.

  • The crestline is estimated to be 675 metres (2200ft) wide.

  • The depth of the river at the base of the falls is actually higher than the falls itself. The river's depth is estimated at 56 metres (184 ft).

  • The flow of water over the crestline of the falls is estimated at more than 168,000 cubic metres.

The Canadian Falls was first described as "horseshoe" shaped in 1721.



Casino Niagara



Opened on Dec 9, 1996, Casino Niagara features over 96,000 sq ft of gaming space with a total of 123 gaming tables and over 3000 slot machines. Tables are accessible for persons with disabilities. Casino Niagara offers a wide assortment of gaming tables such as:


Blackjack - 78 tables Roulette - 17 tables Mini Full Size Baccarat (12 players) - 6 tables Baccarat (9 players) - 2 tables Mini Baccarat (7 players) - 2 tables Caribbean Stud Poker - 6 tables Big Six - 2 tables Pai Gow Poker (Chinese Poker) - 4 tables


Five different dining establishments are offered at Casino Niagara, so enjoy:



  • Twenty One for fine dining

  • The Market's casual and comfortable atmosphere

  • Hard Rock Cafe's up-beat character

  • Perks Cafe, a delightful coffee bar

The Food Court for a quick tasty fix



Casino Niagara Facts



  • You must be 19 years of age or older to enter the gaming area.

  • All games must be played with Canadian currency.

  • Currency exchange is available around the clock.

  • For U.S. visitors: please note that Canadian immigration requires proof of citizenship. Passport or birth certificate is recommended.

  • Entrances/Gaming facilities accessible for persons with disabilities.

  • Casino Niagara open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

  • Valet and on-site parking is available. There is also convenient off-site parking with continuous shuttle service.

The whole family will be thrilled by Free Pizza Pizza Fireworks over the Falls, every Friday and Sunday from May 18 until September 2, as well as Wednesdays in July and August and Fridays from September 7 to October 5.


Special displays are also held on these U.S. and Canadian holidays: Victoria Day May 21, Memorial Day May 28, Canada Day July 1, U.S. Independence


Day July 4, Canadian Civic Holiday August 6.


All displays are scheduled for 10:00 p.m. and are weather dependent.


From May 18 to September 2, free Coca-Cola Concerts are held on Fridays and Sundays at Queen Victoria Place, from 8 p.m. until the Fireworks start at 10 p.m.. A great place to see all the entertainment is from the patio at Edgewaters Tap & Grill.


WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS DISPLAYS Opening Ceremonies are on Saturday, November 3 with displays at 6:15 and 8 p.m., as well as on every Friday, November 9 to December 21 at 9 p.m. During Christmas week, displays are held every evening Wednesday, December 26, 2007 to Sunday, January 6, 2008 at 9 p.m. Don't miss the special New Year's Eve display at midnight on December 31.


Niagara's Floral Clock is another free horticultural attraction just 2.5 kilometres (1.5 miles) north of the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. Built in 1950, the clock is one of the largest in the world at 12.2 metres (40 feet ) in diameter. The "floral face" of the clock is changed twice a season. Violas are planted to provide a colourful design to welcome in the spring season.


From the latter part of May, traditional carpet bedding material is used until frost occurs. Adjacent to the Floral Clock is the Centennial Lilac Garden which blooms profusely late in May each year. There are over 250 varieties planted here and a total of over 1200 individual shrubs.


Experience the mystery and art of illusion with Greg Frewin, one of the most decorated magicians in the world. Greg Frewin "The International Grand Champion of Magic" earned his title by winning first place in all of the World's top magic competitions, a feat that has never been duplicated by any magician. Audiences in 20 countries, across six continents have enjoyed Greg's brilliant performance.


His NEW 600 seat theatre has created a Las Vegas style atmosphere in the heart of Niagara Falls Ontario. His show "BEYOUND BELIEF" is a 90 minute Magic Review which combines the art of illusion and magic. Along with Greg's humorous interaction with the audience. He also injects a high energy display of entertainment featuring grand illusions, exotic birds and majestic TIGERS.


ALSO come face to face with one of our stars as we offer the rare and unique opportunity to have your photo taken with a TIGER!


Greg Frewin Theatre also has other shows performing at the Theatre check out our website for details.


The Niagara River is one of the world's greatest sources of hydroelectric power. The beauty of its wild descent from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario attracts millions of visitors each year. During its short course (56 km), the river drops 99 metres, with much of the spectacular plunge concentrated in a 13 km stretch of waterfalls and rapids.


Water was first diverted from the Canadian side of the Niagara River for generating electricity in 1893. A small 2,200 kilowatt plant was built just above the Horseshoe Falls to power an electric railway between the communities of Queenston and Chippawa.


Today the churning river provides the driving force for almost 2 million kilowatts of electricity from a number of power plants on the Canadian side. The three largest are Sir Adam Beck Niagara Generating Station Nos. 1 and 2 and the nearby pumping-generating station.


On the American side of the border, down river from the Falls, the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant and the Lewiston Pump Generating Plant, together generate more than 2.4 million kilowatts of electricity, enough to power 24 million 100-watt lightbulbs.


Since 1958, Sir Adam Beck Generating Station No.2 has been Ontario Power Generation’s largest and one of its most reliable hydroelectric facilities. Guided tours will give you a glimpse into the history of the region’s power development and will reveal the unique ways the natural splendor of Niagara and hydroelectric generation have existed in harmony.


Parking: Parking is available on-site in front of the building. Purses, Bags and Backpacks will not be permitted on the tour.


Visitors to Niagara Falls can enjoy the thunder of the waters from a completely different perspective by visiting The Journey Behind The Falls attraction,located in the Table Rock House Plaza beside the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. The observation platform at the base of the falls is easily reached by elevators and a network of tunnels.


Two other tunnels provide a close-up view of the Falls from behind. The tunnels extend only 46 metres(150 feet) behind the waterfall, so there is not a lot of walking. And you can explore it all at your leisure: the excursion is completely self-guided.


Lundy’s Lane Historical Museum


The Lundy’s Lane Historical Museum was established in 1961 by the Lundy’s Lane Historical Society and opened in the Mackenzie House on Drummond Road, the next year the Museum was turned over to the newly amalgamated City of Niagara Falls. In 1970 the Museum moved from its former site at Drummond Road and Lundy’s Lane to its present home at 5810 Ferry Street.


This handsome two-storey limestone building was erected in 1874 on the site of the Battle of Lundy’s Lane and served as the Stamford Township Hall. John Latshaw, a prominent local architect, was the designer for what is now one of the few remaining structures of that time period in the City of Niagara Falls. In its early days the building’s basement housed the Drummondville Fire Department.


Stamford Township Council met here until 1962 when the Township and the City of Niagara Falls amalgamated. From 1963 until 1964 the building housed the City of Niagara Falls Engineering Department as well as the Welland and District Health Department.


In 1974 the building was designated as an Historic Building under the provisions of the Ontario Heritage Act. The year 2000 marked the building’s 125th anniversary and the Museum’s 30th.


The Museum is owned by the City of Niagara Falls and operated by the City of Niagara Falls Board of Museums.


The Museum’s collection includes a significant collection of War of 1812 artifacts, as well as historic prints of Niagara Falls. The Museum also has a world class collection of Niagara Falls Souvenir China and Postcards. As the interpreters of the City’s history, the Museum houses a variety of artifacts relating to all aspects of the founding and development of the City of Niagara Falls.


Facilities on site include public washrooms, gift shop, plenty of free parking in the Market Square, and facilities for researchers.


Admission to the Museum is $3.00 for adults, $2.50 for students and seniors and $2.00 for children 6 to 12 years old, children under six years old are free. Memberships are available for all the City of Niagara Falls Museums and details can be obtained at any of the Museums.


The Museum is open 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily from January 2 to May 1, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. May 1 to October 31 and Wednesday to Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in November and December.


War of 1812


The War of 1812 between the United States and Britain played an important part in shaping the look and makeup of the City of Niagara Falls. Two of the most significant battles from this conflict occurred within the current City limits - The Battle of Lundy's Lane and the Battle of Chippawa.


To celebrate 100 years of the City of Niagara Falls in 2004, the City of Niagara Falls Museums held a re-enactment of the Battles of Lundy's Lane and Chippawa. These events brought to life one of the most important events in the history of the community.


Black History


The African Experience is an important part of the history of the City of Niagara Falls. For more information about see Black History in Niagara Falls.


Queen Victoria Memorial Fountain


To the right of the entrance to the Museum stands a stone memorial fountain commemorating Queen Victoria’s reign of over 64 years, erected by her loyal subjects of Stamford Township. The fountain, constructed in 1901 of 82 pieces of limestone, one for each year of the late Queen’s life, provided a constant source of fresh running water for humans, horses and dogs from its three separate levels. The fountain is non-operative at present.


Educational Programmes


The Lundy's Lane Historical Museum can accommodate all types of educational tours and has several educational programmes specially designed to cover a range of grade levels and interests. In addition to this, the Museum staff can work with your group to find a programme that will work for you. For more information on our programmes, check out our School Programmes page or send us an e-mail


The name Niagara Glen conjures up visions of a pleasant, peaceful glade. This image is reasonably accurate so long as you stay in the picnic area above the cliff.


But once you wander over the edge of the gorge, the scene changes dramatically, and a more apt descriptor would be the Devil's Half Acre or the Battleground of the Gods. Gigantic moss-covered boulders are strewn about in the most chaotic fashion, as though some superhuman powers had fought a pitched battle on this site, gouging rocks as large as housed from the ground and hurling them at each other. You can wander around this bizarre landscape along approximately 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) of trails, which can be accessed via a metal staircase down the initial, steepest part of the gorge. Rock climbers


are often seen dangling precariously by ropes and pitons from the cliff face.


The trails lead down into the gorge, revealing the geologic strata that were laid down over four hundred million years ago. Although steep in places, the trails are well-marked and easily negotiated. The paths, which thread over, under, and around huge boulders that have been carved from the cliff face and were smoothed when Niagara Falls was here approximately eight thousand years ago, pass by various natural features including the mammoth pothole, the leaning rock, and Devils arch. The forest is primarily deciduous with maples, Staghorn sumacs, sassafras, tulip trees, and even some red mulberry trees.


Fishing has long been a favourite pastime at the Glen, and fishermen can often be seen casting their lines from the many rocks that are strewn along the shore. A word of caution: do not clamber onto these rocks as the water level can change suddenly and leave you stranded.


A brochure that describes the paths and provides an insight into the geology, history of the gorge, and native vegetation is available in the Gift Shop.


This popular free attraction is visited by over 420,000 people on an annual basis. Located on the Niagara Parkway just 500 metres(1/4 south of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls), it is opened year round daily from 9:30 am. During the "Winter Festival of Lights" and holidays, the hours of operation are extended. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.


Flying tropical birds live in the Greenhouse. The tropical house features a collection of plants from around the globe.


Bedding plants used for the many display gardens are grown here.


For more information on seasonal floral displays please visit the official Niagara Parks Greenhouse Site


Fragrance Garden


The Fragrance Garden is located in the vicinity of the Niagara Parks Greenhouse. It consists of plants with aromatic fragrance, unusual touch and heavenly smells. Some plants are labelled in braille for the convenience of the visually impaired.


A thrilling flight, a spectacular sight! From the sensation of lift-off to the excitement of soaring above the turbulent rapids and cascading waterfalls, your Niagara Helicopters ride is a unique and spectacular experience. Our all-scenic route gives you an incredible


view of Niagara's natural and man-made wonders. Our immaculately-maintained helicopters feature headsets with taped commentary in various languages.


Winter brings an added dimension of beauty and outdoor activity to Niagara. If "birding" is your thing, then you'll want to be here during the months of November and December. That's when thousands of gulls and terns congregate around the Falls and rapids. Approximately 100 different varieties of water birds have been recorded along the river. If it's a particularly cold winter, the clinging spray of the Falls blankets the nearby trees, rocks and lamp posts forming unique frozen shapes.


And if you have never seen Niagara Falls with a spectacular Ice Bridge, you're in for a real treat. Don't forget your cameras for this trip.


The spectacular "Winter Festival of Lights" runs from late November to early January, featuring breathtaking light displays and even outdoor entertainment against the illuminated backdrop of the Falls.



The tumbling waters cut away the shale and sandstone layers until the dolomite top layer collapses, thus maintaining the vertical face of the Falls.


About 12,000 years ago, Niagara Falls was 11 kilometres (7 miles) downstream from its present position. Until the early 1950s, the Falls eroded at the average rate of one metre (3 feet) per year.


Since then, major water diversions have spread out the flow more evenly, slowing the rate of erosion at the Falls. These include the Sir Adam Beck #2 Generating Station (1954) on the Canadian side of the border, the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant (1961) on the American side of the Niagara River, and the International Control Works (1954-1963).


It is suggested that now the rate of erosion could be as low as 30 centimetres (one foot) every ten years.


A Collection of Facts and Figures About Niagara


The word "Onguiaahra" appears on maps as early as 1641. Both it and the later version "Ongiara" are Indian words generally interpreted as meaning "The Straight", although the romantic "Thunder of Waters" is sometimes given. By the time the first white man arrived at the Falls, the name in general use was "Niagara"


The Niagara River



  • The Niagara River is about 56 kilometres (35 miles) long and is the natural outlet from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. It is one of the world's greatest sources of hydroelectric power.

  • The elevation between the two lakes is about 99 metres (326), with the half-way point occurring at the Falls.

  • The total area drained by the Niagara River is approximately 684,000 square kilometres (264,000 square miles).

The average fall from Lake Erie to the beginning of the Upper Niagara Rapids is only 2.7 metres (9 feet)


The Falls



  • The Canadian Horseshoe Falls, for the most part, fall 52 metres (170 feet) into the Maid of the Mist Pool.

  • At the American Falls, the water plunges vertically, ranging from 21 to 34 metres (70 to 110 feet), to the rock at the base of the Falls.

  • The Niagara Gorge extends from the Falls for 11 kilometres (7 miles) downstream to the foot of the escarpment at Queenston.

More than 168,000 cubic metres (6 million cubic feet) of water go over the crestline of the Falls every minute during peak daytime tourist hours. It is difficult to determine the depth of the water at the crestline due to various flows and conditions of the river.


Combined Volume of Flow


April to September 15 8:00 am to 10:00 pm September 16 to October 31 8:00 am to 8:00 pm 2832 cubic metres/sec All other dates and times 1416 cubic metres/sec The remainder of river flow is removed upstream form the Falls and shared equally for hydro-electric generation by Canada and the United States. The total generating capacity at Niagara is about 4.4 million kilowatts (5 million horsepower).


To see the Falls at night is to be wide awake in the land of dreams"


Every evening beginning at dusk the Falls are lit in the colours of the rainbow - don't miss the unmatched beauty of the Falls at night!


Illumination of the Falls has been Financed and Operated by The Niagara Falls Illumination Board since 1925.


Currently a total of 21 Xenon lights are used to illuminate the Falls. In 1998, 18 of these new lights replaced older lamps and fixtures at the Illumination tower, doubling the intensity of the lights on the Falls without doubling the hydro bills. Each Xenon spotlight illuminating the Falls at night has a brilliance of 250,000,000 candlepower.


Funding for the year-round, nightly illumination of the Falls is provided by:



  • . The City of Niagara Falls, New York

  • The City of Niagara Falls, Ontario

  • The Niagara Parks Commission

  • The Niagara Frontier State Park Authority of New York

  • Ontario Hydro.

Directly opposite the Maid of the Mist Plaza is Oakes Garden Theatre -- a free horticultural and architectural highlight of the Niagara Parks.



Formally opened in 1937, the architectural design is that of an amphitheatre which resembles those of ancients Greeks and Romans.


Fan-shaped, with the stage placed so that the panorama of the Falls forms a backdrop, it is built on varying levels, taking advantage of the contours of the ground and incorporating a foundation wall of the old Clifton Hotel. At the rear there is a curved pergola connecting two open pavilions, one aligned on the axis of the Horseshoe Falls, the other on that of the American Falls.


Sloping terraces, rock gardens, lily ponds, shrubbery and wide promenades adjoin the amphitheatre. Oakes Garden is popular with photographers especially on formal occasions such as Weddings. Recently "Live with Regis & Kathy Lee" used the garden as a setting for their show.


The parkland adjacent to the Canadian "Horseshoe" Falls is truly a royal garden setting and yours to enjoy free of charge. From early Spring to late Fall, Queen Victoria Park's many acres of colourful gardens bloom profusely.


Queen Victoria Park provides the best view of both cataracts-Summer and Winter- an ideal place to stroll while you watch the coloured night lighting of the Falls and the summer "Falls Friday Fireworks" displays.


The Skylon Tower is located on Robinson St in the City of Niagara Falls overlooking Queen Victoria Park and the Falls. At 520 feet, the Skylon Tower is the tallest structure in Niagara. The tower was opened in the autumn of 1964.


Take the yellow bug (exterior glass encased elevator) to the Observation Deck, the Revolving Dining Room or the Summit Suite Buffet dining room. On a clear day a visitor can see a over 80 miles. A must for photographers. Open Year Round. For those with a taste for the extraordinary Skylon's Revolving Dining Room simply must be experienced. The award-winning continental cuisine is presented in an elegant setting 775 ft. above the Falls.


Lunch or dinner, the menu is rivalled only by the view, which you can appreciate at leisure (one rotation per hour). Dine by night and you'll discover the unique atmosphere created by the illumination of the Falls. Discover the ultimate in buffet style dining in the Summit Suite. Relax in a comfortable casual setting and marvel at one of the world’s greatest wonders. Whether your tastes thrill to roast beef or fresh seafood our buffet is sure to tempt you. The Skylon makes superb dining affordable for the whole family along free escalation to the dining rooms. <!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--> <!--[endif]-->


Within the Dome of the Skylon Tower, the circular design and provision of three separate and complete levels make it possible for all visitors to enjoy an unobstructed view. Viewing conditions are further enhanced through the use of a special grey glass in the windows to diffuse sunlight and reduce glare. These windows allow for quality photographs to be taken from the inside deck on those occasions when inclement weather defers one from strolling the outside area.


On the lower level international shopping, The Skylon Fun Centre, Niagara’s largest indoor arcade, with over a 100 games, a 4 outlet food court and a great new 4D theatre.


"The Old Scow" Located on the Upper Niagara River


This dumping scow, marooned and rusting away in the Upper Rapids, has been a point of interest since August 1918, when it broke loose from its towing tug with two men aboard.


Luckily, the men had the presence of mind to open the scow's bottom dumping doors, grounding it on a rocky ledge where it has remained ever since.


After almost 29 hours on the barge, they were rescued using a breeches buoy connected to a line shot out from the roof of the Toronto Power Generating Station.


In recent years the old scow has severely deteriorated.


The true extent of its deterioration can only be seen from an aerial tour over Niagara Falls


Welcome to the Welland Canal In Ontario


The first impression of a modern lake-faring freighter is of its overwhelming size. It doesn't seem possible that something of such immense proportions could even be built, much less be able to dock, load, and sail the lakes. Yet dozens of lakers and "salties" (sea going ships) ply up and down the Welland Canal every day, casting enormous shadows as they cruise incongruously past lush orchards and vineyards.


Longer than two football fields and weighing more than 30,000 tonnes, how is it possible to lift these behemoths up and over the cliff face of the Niagara Escarpment? Not only is this done on a routine basis, but the technology is so simple that ships have been routinely hoisted up and down the escarpment for over 150 years.


Engineers discovered the trick long ago - let gravity and water do the work. The locks are filled and emptied by water flowing downhill from Lake Erie toward Lake Ontario. Many fascinating hours can be spent watching how the gates are opened and shut to control the water flow, allowing ponderous monsters from all corners of the world to sail into the middle of the North American continent.


Originally constructed in 1829 to link Lake Erie with Lake Ontario and offer ships a safe detour around Niagara Falls, the Welland Canal has a long and colourful history. You can explore this great wonder with any number of tours, either by car, by bicycle, or on foot.


The Whirlpool Aero Car In Niagara Falls, Ontario


The best way to see Niagara's fascinating Whirlpool is from high overhead - aboard the world famous Niagara Whirlpool Aero Car. Located 4.5 kilometres (3 miles) North of the Falls, suspended from sturdy cables, the Niagara Whirlpool Aero Car offers a wonderful view.


A Spanish engineer designed and built it, Leonardo Torres Quevedo, the Aero Car has been operating since 1916.


Riders can see the rapids, the Whirlpool, the Gorge, the hydro-electric plants down the river, as the aerial car travels safely between two different points on the Canadian shore of the Niagara River over the spectacular whirlpool. This round trip is slightly more than 1 kilometre (3,600 feet) and takes about 10 minutes.


Location: Located 4.5 km.(3 miles)down-river from the Falls at People Mover stops #8 & #16.


Features:



  • The aerial cable car travels safely between two different points of the Canadian shore of the Niagara River over the spectacular Whirlpool.

  • A round trip is about one kilometre (3,600 feet) and takes about 10 minutes to navigate.

  • The capacity of the car is 40 standing passengers.

  • A breathtaking view of the Niagara River's Whirlpool Rapids.

  • Built in 1913 by the Niagara Aero Car Company using Leonardo Torres-Quevedo's patent.

  • Opened on August 8, 1916.

  • Upgrades in design and function occurred in 1961, 1967 and 1984.

History : The aero car was designed by a Spanish engineer, Leonardo Torres Quevedo and has been in operation since 1910. The cable car is suspended from six sturdy cables and offers a wonderful view of the Niagara Whirlpool which is formed at the end of the rapids where the gorge turns abruptly to the northeast and the river escapes through the narrowest channel in the gorge. Please note that this attraction is NOT wheelchair accessible.


The Willoughby Historical Museum is housed in the Former S.S. #2 Willoughby, located at 9935 Niagara Parkway, in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, at the intersection of the Niagara Parkway and Weaver Road.


Come inside the Museum and step back in time.


Hours of Operation are 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., weekends from Victoria Day to June 30th; Daily during July and August; Weekends from Labour Day to Canadian Thanksgiving.


The Museum is available for tours or research all year round by calling 1(905)295-4036. Admission to the Museum is by donation.


Artifacts on display at the Museum represent what is now the City of Niagara Falls, Canada, but was formerly the Township of Willoughby and the Village of Chippawa. The Museum was established in 1968 due to a perceived need to preserve a place and a way of life that was beginning to get lost. The Museum brings to life the rural history of one of the world's most recognizable places.


Genealogy


The Willoughby Historical Museum has a wealth of genealogical information for researchers looking for their family's history. Researchers are encouraged to call the Museum and make an appointment to look into the archives of the Museum for their ancestors.


Navy Island


The Museum is located near Navy Island - a world nature preserve located in the Upper Niagara River.


Navy Island was the centre of a National Controversy during the Rebellion of 1837, when William Lyon Mackenzie, leader of the rebels, and 700 of his "Patriots", occupied Navy Island. It was here that one of the more famous incidents took place - The Burning of the Steamer Caroline. This supply ship, which was rented by Mackenzie was captured by the British forces on December 29th, 1837, was set on fire and was sent over the Falls.


The Steamer Caroline as it would have appeared in 1837


Navy Island was also one of the locations considered for the United Nations when a "home" was being sought for it in the 1940's.


Welcome to Zooz!


Have you ever come face to face with a hippopotamus? Can you imagine nuzzling noses with a giraffe? Want to hang out with a two-toed sloth?


You can at ZOOZ


More than 400 animals and birds are waiting to meet you at ZOOZ, Niagara’s Wildest Animal Adventure! Zooz is a 44-hectare nature park located within a 10-minute drive from Niagara Falls, Canada and Buffalo, USA.


Zooz features an incredible range of exciting, educational activities for all ages and abilities-from a petting park to children’s playgrounds. Take is guided tours, interactive animal presentations and feeding demonstrations, slash pad, fishing, paddleboating, kite-flying, playgrounds, live concerts and one of Canada’s largest steel sculpture exhibits! Bring a picnic or feast on a fantastic meal at our counter-service restaurant.


SPECTACULAR SHOWS!


ZOOZ has entertainment for all ages from live outdoor concerts to sky-soaring birds of prey presentations. Don’t miss seeing our wild side of ZOONIVERSITY where you’ll meet ZOOZ animals and their handlers for an interactive experience to remember. Come along on our guided tours featuring the big cats, primates and bears. Visitors can even try their hand at feeding a gentle Giraffe or a hungry Hippopotamus!


SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE


Ziggy’s Zoovenier shop is a perfect place to find unique gifts for everyone on your list. Plush animals, apparel, gits, for everyone on your list. Plush animals, apparel, gifts, jewelry, games and more all with a wildlife conservation theme. Many of out items will be only available at ZOOZ providing you with a one of a kind shopping experience. We also provide a variety of local, native and unique products.


On your way in or out of the park be sure to visit the Stevensville Garden Gallery! Located adjacent to the ZOOZ parking area, this garden center and gift store offers an array of unique indoor and outdoor home and gardening items year-round.

Murali

Monday, June 23, 2008

Washington

World War II Memorial Photo 2



World War II Memorial Photo 1




Washington Monument Photo



Vietnam Veterans Statue




Vietnam Veterans Memorial



Lincoln Memorial Statue




Lincoln Memorial




Radhe Krishna 23-06-08


http://www.washingtondcpartyshuttle.com/area-attractions/

Area Attractions
Washington D.C. is the city where the world is changed on a daily basis. And unlike Las Vegas, what happens in D.C. will not stay in D.C., but instead will probably make front page news on every newspaper in the globe. A trip to our nation’s capitol will not disappoint you, providing history, education, politics, and scandalous fun. Whether you chose to ride the metro around town exploring on your own or sign up with a tour company, you will find plenty to do. Among the places to see are:
Smithsonian Institute’s museums, galleries and zoological gardenUnited States Capitol BuildingThe White HouseLincoln MemorialWashington MonumentMount VernonConstitution GardensKennedy Center for the Performing ArtsRock Creek ParkMCI Center Sports ArenaNational Gallery of ArtNational Aquarium

The Smithsonian Institute
Written by Sarah Worthy
The Smithsonian Institution is an assemblage of 18 museums, plus galleries and gardens with affiliate relationships with 140 other museums and 9 research centers. The Smithsonian is dedicated to the advancement of science, discovery and an understanding of the American history and culture. With over 20 million visitors to its museums every year, the Smithsonian has had enormous success with its mission despite a very surprising beginning.
The Smithsonian Institution was founded when a British scientist’s, James Smithson, nephew died without any heirs in 1835. James Smithson had stipulated in his will that should his nephew die without any family, then Smithson’s entire estate should be donated “to the United States of America, to found at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men.”This was an unexpected donation considering James Smithson had never been to visit the United States nor seemed to know anyone here. Many speculate that the reason for Smithson’s generous donation to a country he had no ties with was due to his frustration and anger towards the British scientific community for not accepting him.
Today, the collection of Smithsonian museums, galleries, and gardens located in Washington D.C. are: African Art Museum Air and Space Museum and Udvar-Hazy Center American Art Museum American History Museum American Indian Museum on the Mall Anacostia Museum (African American History and Culture) Freer and Sackler Galleries (Asian art) Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (modern and contemporary art) National Zoo Natural History Museum Portrait Gallery Postal Museum Renwick Gallery (American crafts) Smithsonian Institution Building, the Castle (visitor information)
Admission is free and the museums are open everyday of the year except Christmas Day.

The National Gallery of Art and Sculpture Garden
The National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. is one of the world’s most prestigious art museums and gallery. It was formed by an act of Congress in partnership with Andrew W. Mellon’s generous donation in 1937. The Museum has collected art pieces from around the world. Among the permanent exhibits are:
★ Sculpture Galleries, a permanent collection of sculptures dating from the Middle Ages to present and include Chalice of the Abbot Suger of Saint-Denis and The Age of Bronze by Auguste Rodin★ Armand Hammer Collection, a collection of drawings donated by Armand Hammer featuring works from artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci and Pablo Picasso★ Dutch Cabinet Galleries, displaying the small Dutch and Flemish paintings in a suite of specially designed rooms★ Italian Cabinet Galleries, collection of rare objects that were commonly displayed in the homes of Italian princes and merchants
Part of the National Gallery of Art includes the National Gallery Sculpture Gardens, a collection of seventeen outdoor sculptures in an informal garden setting on about 6 acres of land. The Garden is located on the north side of the National Mall and is planted with a number of native American shrubs and flowers. The National Gallery of Art and the National Gallery Sculpture Gardens are a must see for art lovers when you come to Washington D.C.
For more information about museum hours and guided tours, call 202-737-4215.

The National Zoological Park
Written by Sarah Worthy
The National Zoological Park is a 163-acre garden paradise located about 30 minutes from our nation’s Capitol. The National Zoo opened its gates in 1889 by an act of Congress for “the advancement of science and instruction and recreation of the people”. It joined the Smithsonian Institution’s collection of museums, research laboratories and scientific gardens in 1890 and has since served as a sanctuary for animals, particularly the endangered and displaced. It currently boasts a population of more than 2400 individual animals from 400 different species. The National Zoo’s mission quests after a leadership in the preservation and understanding of our wild kingdom.
The National Zoo is funded entirely by Congress and admission to the zoo is free of charge. It is open 364 days of the year, and Washington D.C. offers many superb days to visit with its temperate weather. The Zoo has daily educational programs and behind the scenes tours where you can learn about how elephants are trained or watch a giant octopus during feeding time, and more. Local residents make use of the extensive paths and trails throughout the lush landscaping for daily walking and jogging, creating an exciting workout past lion, tiger, and bear enclosures.
The National Zoo offers visitors the chance to experience an African Safari, a walk through an Asian forest, and see and hear the sites of a Brazilian rainforest all in one afternoon. You will see animals you would probably never be able to view in the wild such as the Giant Pandas or the Western lowland Gorillas. You will also discover many animals you have never heard of. The National Zoo in Washington D.C. is a must-see on your vacation to our nation’s capitol city.
The Zoo hours change with the seasons, so call ahead to plan your visit. Call 202-633-4800 for general information

The United States Capitol Building
Written by Sarah Worthy
If you are heading to Washington D.C., then the first place you will want to stop at as your tour the city is the United States Capitol Building located on the east end of the National Mall. The Capitol Building has a long history with almost as many revisions as the legislative branch of our government that calls the building home. The current building is the fourth Capitol building and the first located in Washington D.C. The first three were located in Maryland, New York, and Philadelphia.

Construction on the Washington U.S. Capitol began in 1793 when George Washington laid the cornerstone. The majority of the construction work was actually done by African Americans, both free and slaves. The building was later expanded in 1850 and a new dome replaced the older, smaller one. The massive weight of the new dome, more than 3 times the height of the old one, led to further renovation on the East portion to help support the new weight in 1904.
The Capitol Building is home to the U.S. Congress and has north (Senate) and south (House) wings. Addresses in Washington, DC are labeled NE, NW, SE, or SW based on the location of the Capitol building’s rotunda. The Capitol also has its own private subway and underground tunnels connecting the main building with the Congressional Office Buildings.
Free guided tours of the Capitol are available to the public Monday through Saturday throughout the year except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Washington D.C., the White House
By David Chandler
The original White House was neither white, nor referred to as a house. The first President of the United States lived in three houses while President, none of which were the White House, as it was not completed while he was President. The White House was first referred to as the Presidential Palace, later the Presidential house, and finally the White House, after the war of 1812 when British troops attacked and burned the house. When it was rebuilt it was painted white, and the name White House was born.

An Interesting Fact about the White House
When George Washington was deciding where to build it, there was some controversy as to whether it should stand in the North or on the property of the South. Washington finally picked land between the two, and Maryland and Virginia, who were on the border, were happy to donate the land on which the White House now stands, neither north nor South, but in a district, the District of Columbia.
The Oval Office, a Symbol of the Modern Day President
For President Taft, the Oval Office may have symbolized his view of the modern-day president. Taft intended to be the center of his administration, and by creating the Oval Office in the center of the West Wing, he was more involved with the day-to-day operation of his presidency than were his recent predecessors.
What President Taft could not imagine in 1902 when he built the Oval Office was that the office itself would become a symbol of the Presidency. Over the years, Americans developed a sentimental attachment to the Oval Office through memorable images, such as John Kennedy, Jr. peering through the front panel of his father’’s desk or President Nixon talking on the phone with astronauts after a successful voyage. Television broadcasts, such as President Reagan’’s speech following the Challenger explosion, would leave lasting impressions in the minds of Americans of both the office and its occupant.
The Oval Office became a symbol of strength and reassurance the evening of September 11, 2001, when President George W. Bush delivered comforting words through a televised address from the Oval Office. Less than six months later, President George W. Bush welcomed Afghan Interim Authority Hamid Karzai to the Oval Office. The meeting was a sign of significant progress in the war on terrorism.
For more information, visit http://www.WashingtonDCInfoCenter.com

The Washington Monument
Written by Sarah Worthy
The Washington Monument is arguably one of the greatest feats of mankind and a symbol of American pride. It stands at 169 meters and is located at the West end of the National Mall. The monument was built to honor our country’s first President, George Washington, and took 36 years to complete. The monument, designed by Robert Mills, is made of sandstone, granite and marble.

Shortly after George Washington’s death, a congressional committee planned for a monument to the first president in the form of a tomb that would be erected in the Capitol. Washington’s family was not interested in moving his body and Congress was slow to act at that time. So it wasn’t until several years later, on the 100th anniversary of Washington’s birth, that the Washington National Monument Society formed and began collecting donations to build a monument for Washington. The Society held a contest in the 1830’s for the submission of designs for a monument.
The Society board described their expectations:
“It is proposed that the contemplated monument shall be like him in whose honor it is to be constructed, unparalleled in the world, and commensurate with the gratitude, liberality, and patriotism of the people by whom it is to be erected… [It] should blend stupendousness with elegance, and be of such magnitude and beauty as to be an object of pride to the American people, and of admiration to all who see it. Its material is intended to be wholly American, and to be of marble and granite brought from each state, that each state may participate in the glory of contributing material as well as in funds to its construction. ”
The winner was architect Robert Mills who was also the Architect of Public Buildings for Washington at the time. Construction on the monument began in 1848, and then stalled due to lack of funds and the Civil War. After the War, construction resumed in 1876 - 20 years after Mills passed away and thus was unable to see his vision completed. Construction was instead directed by Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Lincoln Casey of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and was completed December 6th, 1984.
Today, the Washington Monument continues to draw in visitors every year. On a clear day, you can see the monument reflected in the Reflecting Pool built on the west side of the monument.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate
Written by Sarah Worthy
While you are in Washington D.C., you must make the time to visit Mount Vernon Estates. The mansion is set on 8,000 acres near Fairfax, Virginia and was the home of George and Martha Washington from 1759, when they were married, until 1799 when our first president passed away. The estate was purchased by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association in 1858 and opened to the public for tours in 1860. It has received more than 80 million visitors since then.
Tours of the mansion include the more than a dozen outbuildings on the grounds such as the quarters, kitchen, stables, and a greenhouse. There are four different gardens, a Forest Trail for hiking and a 4-acre working farm called the Pioneer Farmer site. You can also visit the tomb where George and Martha Washington have been laid to rest. Mount Vernon was originally created to be a fully self-sustaining estate and so it had all the necessities required for the residents in Washington’s day to live in comfort without needing to leave the farm for supplies.
A visit to this gorgeous farm out in the country of Virginia will be like a trip back in time to the days when the Unites States was still a blossoming country full of dreams and hope. This is a must-see experience. For more information, call 703-780-2000.

Constitution Gardens
The Constitution Gardens lie adjacent to the National Mall and is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city as well as a testament to our engineering knowledge. Originally, the 50 acres of park land lay beneath the Potomac River. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredged the land at the beginning of the 20th Century. The land briefly housed the Navy’s temporary office buildings during World War I and then President Nixon ordered the land be turned into a national park when the Navy demolished the buildings and relocated in the 1970s.
The Garden was dedicated in May, 1976 as a legacy to the American Revolution’s Bicentennial and a memorial dedicated to the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence was erected on the small island lying within the lake of the park. In 1986, President Reagan proclaimed the Constitution Gardens as a tribute to the Constitution of the United States and now the National Park Service holds naturalization ceremonies there each year. The Gardens are open year round.

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is located northwest of the Lincoln Memorial and the National Mall along the Potomac River. It was originally to be called the National Cultural Center when President Dwight Eisenhower signed the bipartisan act in 1958 to create a Center for classical and contemporary performances as well as educational programs for the arts.
President Kennedy was well known for his support and promotion of the arts and was active in fundraising for the National Cultural Center. When he was assassinated in 1963, Congress designated the Cultural Center as a “living memorial” to Kennedy and renamed it the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Today the Kennedy Center is stage to operas, ballets, plays and other musical and theatrical art performances throughout the year. The Center created an artistic center for Washington D.C. which rivals that of New York’s Broadway. Tickets for performances go on sale about 2 months before their opening night. To purchase tickets and find out about upcoming performances call 202-467-4600.

Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park is West Virginia’s largest park and recreational area located to the northwest of Washington D.C. Throughout the wooded park, there are hiking and biking trails as well as campgrounds. The park is named for the large creek that runs through it which supports fishing and canoeing/kayaking. Rock Creek park is where most residents of Washington D.C. go for exercise and resh outdoor air.
The park facilities also include horseback riding and a golf course, soccer fields, tennis courts and bird watching. The nature center has maps and guided tours of the plant and animal life in the park which includes many native birds and even coyotes. The Rock Creek Planetarium both traditional indoor planetarium shows as well as occasional evening trips to gaze at the stars at Military Field nearby.
Rock Creek Park is a perfect place for visitors and residents that want to get a sense of West Virginia’s natural beauty or just have a fun camping trip with the kids without having to stray too far from the city. For more information about park services call 202-895-6070.

The MCI Center Sports and Concerts Arena
The MCI Center is located in downtown Washington DC at 7th and F Streets and is the home of the NBA Wizards, the NHL Capitals, the WNBA Mystics, and the Georgetown Hoyas. It is also the central venue for music concerts, family shows, and other sporting events in Washington D.C. The arena hosts over 220 events each year.
Everything about the MCI Center is state of the art technology and provides the ultimate luxury from its locker rooms with hydrotherapy equipment to its Capital Club Restaurant catered by award winning Levy Restaurants. The MCI Center has the SACO SMART VISION System scoreboard, the largest video scoreboard of its kind in an arena. It also has 110 luxury suites each with their own remote control television, private restroom, and wet bar. There are two video walls in the main concourse featuring upcoming events and highlights of past events in sports, entertainment and politics.
For ticketing and general information contact the MCI Center at: 601 F Street, NWWashington, DC 20004Telephone: 202-628-3200

The National Gallery of Art and Sculpture Garden
The National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. is one of the world’s most prestigious art museums and gallery. It was formed by an act of Congress in partnership with Andrew W. Mellon’s generous donation in 1937. The Museum has collected art pieces from around the world. Among the permanent exhibits are:
★ Sculpture Galleries, a permanent collection of sculptures dating from the Middle Ages to present and include Chalice of the Abbot Suger of Saint-Denis and The Age of Bronze by Auguste Rodin★ Armand Hammer Collection, a collection of drawings donated by Armand Hammer featuring works from artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci and Pablo Picasso★ Dutch Cabinet Galleries, displaying the small Dutch and Flemish paintings in a suite of specially designed rooms★ Italian Cabinet Galleries, collection of rare objects that were commonly displayed in the homes of Italian princes and merchants
Part of the National Gallery of Art includes the National Gallery Sculpture Gardens, a collection of seventeen outdoor sculptures in an informal garden setting on about 6 acres of land. The Garden is located on the north side of the National Mall and is planted with a number of native American shrubs and flowers. The National Gallery of Art and the National Gallery Sculpture Gardens are a must see for art lovers when you come to Washington D.C.
For more information about museum hours and guided tours, call 202-737-4215.

The National Aquarium, Washington D.C.
Written by Sarah Worthy
The National Aquarium in Washington D.C, is located in the basement of the Department of Commerce. It is a short walk from the White House and just north of the National Mall. The Commerce Department once developed fish-breeding programs and technologies to stimulate the economy and so in 1873, the National Aquarium was established. During the Reagan administration, the aquarium lost its federal funding and the now private, nonprofit aquarium remains in the basement of the Commerce building. The National Aquarium is the oldest aquarium in the nation and has 70 tanks of various sizes, most with fish you would find native to our country. The aquarium has daily tours that take between 15 to 30 minutes and as daily feedings that allow visitors to watch as hungry piranhas, alligators or sharks gobble their food. Admission to the aquarium is $5 and it is open daily from 9AM to 5PM except holidays.
The National Aquarium is an excellent place to tour if you have 45 minutes left in your day and would like to relax and watch some fish. It is a quiet little piece of history that is a must-see if you want to experience all of Washington D.C.’s history.For more information call 202-482-2825.

Korean War Memorial



Jefferson Memorial





Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial




Murali

Sunday, June 8, 2008

US TRIP

Radhe Krishna 08-02-08

Myself and my wife Sudha started from chennai on 20-05-2008 early morning 01:30 AM Air France flight and reached Paris after 10:30 hrs journey.
Then Took flight to Boston and then took flight to raleigh next day morning 9:30AM and reached Raleigh by 11:45 hrs. Ananthu took us to his house.