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Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

You don't have the power to make rainbows or waterfalls, sunsets or roses, but you do have the power to bless people by your words and smiles. You carry within you the power to make the world better.” - Sharon G. Larson

Growing up in the midwest with four siblings, summer usually meant road trips and tourist traps. We would pile into the family station wagon, cram the suitcases on the roof, and hit the road to visit the Grand Canyon, Chattanooga Choo Choo, or Ruby Falls. Somehow, we never made it to Niagara Falls yet it was always on my personal bucket list. Having traveled cross country to Toronto for business, I absolutely had to hit the kitschy Falls to see what all the buzz was about!

Aa a lifelong lover of nature, Niagara is one of the most spectacular natural sites to witness! The majestic view of the Falls cascading beautifully over the cliffs is something you won’t easily forget.  At night, the colored lights shine on the Falls and the scenery is pure magic. With hotels and restaurants lining both the Canadian and US sides of the Falls, there’s something for everyone. Overflowing with visitors from all over the world, Niagara is definitely a bit on the touristy side which is also part of it’s charm. With horse drawn carriages, as well as excited families, the streets leading to Niagara are quite lively and fun. I loved the view the Falls at night as the beauty is ethereal.

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There are plenty of hotels to choose from, and we went with the Marriott at the base of The Falls as it seemed a good compromise of value and amenity. Nothing fancy yet it fit our needs perfectly. The first night we were a bit tired and decided to stay in and hit the Keg Steakhouse + Bar located next door in the Embassy Suites. It was basic American cuisine with a great view of The Falls. Niagara is a place where it can be a challenge to find healthy fare. Deciding to relax and have fun, I indulged in one of my weaknesses, a  basic cheeseburger and fries (pickles and ketchup ONLY please) and a well needed glass of Chardonnay. Then, off to hit the hay as we had a full day ahead touring The Falls.

First thing in the morning, it was on to the tram and off to The Falls. I brought my one and only perfume by Saor, the Gaelic word for “to be free” which is pretty much how I’m feeling these days! It’s lively yet feminine. My friend, Patty Talbot, created this scent with a combination of bergamot, white tea and musk to create a captivating fragrance. It always keeps me feeling cool and beautiful.  As I knew it would be a day of touring in the heat, I chose a Top and Skort set from Revolve Clothing and their wonderfully affordable line, BLQ Basiq.  Super comfy and light, it was a good choice as comfort was the priority. Designed with the horse lover in mind, this custom necklace from the phenomenal  Jewelry by Trisha Dunn, was the perfect accessory. Trish is a creative genius. If there’s something you can dream up, she can create it for you! I absolutely love working with Trish, and if you’re interested drop me an email and we will design the perfect look for you. I’m glad I remembered to pack a pair of comfy moccasins by Manitobah, a Canadian company that makes their moccasins with both style and comfort in mind. With the heat of the sun, I topped the look off with a straw fedora by Michael Stars. I love experimenting with whimsical additions to an outfit. This neck scarf from Nordstrom Rack was tied around my wrist as a bracelet to add a little interest.  Niagara has a very low key atmosphere and this was a great outfit to breeze through the day! We were ready to hit The Falls!

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As you approach the viewing area through the billowing mists, a dull roaring continues to build. When you finally peer over the railings and see Niagara in all it’s raging glory … Well, the scene is truly one you won’t easily forget. The massive rush of water thundering over the Falls as Lake Erie drains into Lake Ontario is simply staggering. The one “must do” at Niagara is the Maid of the Mist, a large boat that takes visitors directly into the middle of the Horseshoe for an up close and personal with the fury of The Falls. It’s an experience you can’t miss! Even though you’re given a poncho to wear, be prepared to get wet, as the mists and spray from The Falls finds every nook and cranny.

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Back up to the top, it was time to linger over the beauty that surrounds you on every side.  Standing on the Canadian side of the Falls is an amazing way to view both sides of Niagara. The Canadian Falls are shaped in a horseshoe and the focused power is mesmerizing to watch. You can spend hours just walking around seeing the Falls from different vantage points. Hit the IMAX theatre for a history lesson and to hear the amazing survival stories over the decades. After a few hours of touring around, we had worked up a big appetite and headed over to Queen Victoria Restaurant, beautifully perched with a gorgeous view of The Falls. Beginning with a locally grown Butter Lettuce Salad and moving on to the Ontario Fusion Noodle Bowl paired with a lovely Ontario Tawes Chardonnay made for a delightful meal.  Fresh and delicious, it was a lovely way to spend an evening relaxing while gazing at the most incredible sights during the night time light show. I’m a people watcher by nature and the people watching at The Falls did not disappoint. Dessert you ask? Well, it wouldn’t be Canada without a stop at Tim Horton’s Donuts! I have to admit, it’s been a long time since I’ve had a donut, but who could resist a fresh yummy Tim Horton’s donut … ahem, or two. Well, this fashion blogger couldn’t!

As my eyes were getting heavy, it was time to head back to the hotel and call it a day. With another item checked off my Bucket List, it was an awesome day. Fun, light, laughter, surrounded by the most spectacular views of mother nature, Niagara was pure magic. Have you been to Niagara Falls? What’s your favorite memory? Do you have a favorite restaurant? A favorite place to view the Falls? I love hearing from you!

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2 comments

Reply

Love Niagara Falls and especially Maid of the Mist. Beautiful photos Catherine

Reply

Aw love this look, ur pics are so perfect!! 🙂 I love Niagra too beautiful from the Canadian side too! Seeing that Tim Hortons donut made me miss their Frozen Hot Chocolate Yummm 🙂 Xoxoxo

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