It was magical. My first time at Niagara Falls, it is amazing and unlike anything you have ever seen. I understand why is is one of the 7th wonders of the world. There were more activities on the Canadian side of the falls so, go across the boarder and experience the attractions.

There are lots of vantage points around Niagra Falls, but for visitors with a relatively short time to see the highlights, Goat Island is the place to go. At its western tip, there's a great view of the Canadian Falls (so close, a change in the wind means an instant soaking); and at the north tip (by the Tesla statue), one can overlook the American Falls (Goat Island is at a higher elevation than the closer Luna Island vantage point). There is a good-sized parking lot (P2) on Goat Island, which was very convenient. We got there at 9:30 am on a Saturday, and were very surprised to find ourselves nearly the first visitors there (granted, this was in mid-May and there was still some lingering early morning fog...). The parking fee was reasonable, and the directions to get there along with hours and fees were easily accessible via the NF state park's website. There are public restrooms on the outside ground floor of the Top of the Falls restaurant building, between the parking lot and the western tip of the island. And note that there is a wheelchair-accessible ramp to the western viewing point, bypassing the many stairs. Watch for the black squirrels in the trees, and the Canadian geese that like to hang out on the lawn near the western tip's viewing point.

When you talk of Niagara, everyone says go to Canada. My thoughts are stay in the US first. Goat Island is an awesome place to start with views of Canadian falls, islands with bridges, nature, and standing over bridal veil. Cave of the Winds attraction is there, and a shuttle bus takes you around.