Just because the impressive cascade of water known as Niagara Falls is the region's best known attraction doesn't mean there isn't a lot more than river gazing to do here. Excluding shooting the famous falls in a barrel of course, there are plenty of ways to get your feet wet and enjoy the best of Niagara in the process.

Every trip, however, must still begin with look at the misting white curtain of Horseshoe Falls crashing down to the river far below. Snap requisite photos, and then take a trip behind the falls for another perspective on this powerful natural wonder. A number of local operators offer helicopter tours for your viewing pleasure, and boat tours on Maid of the Mist run to the base of the falls from both sides of the river. Tear yourself away from the mesmerizing sight long enough to check out a few of the other area attractions.

Explore recreated tavern life at the Battle Ground Hotel, once the site of significant struggle between forces in the War of 1812 and now a period museum. Bird watchers won't want to miss a trip to the Niagara Falls Aviary. Find a swirl of color at the Butterfly Conservatory, and an extensive sprawl of growing green things at the Botanical Gardens a few miles away. Get a little exercise with your nature on the recreational trail that winds 35 miles between historic Fort Erie and Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a picturesque 19th-century town well preserved for your visiting pleasure.

Should this almost exhaustive range of attractions leave you with sodden shoes and tired feet, head for the fine selection of wineries dotting the Niagara Peninsula for an afternoon of tasting and a bit of countryside.

Niagara, Ontario, is located a quick bridge across Niagara River from Niagara, New York. Niagara is 82 miles southwest of Toronto.