Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Tourists in Niagara: Amusement

Welcome to Clifton Hill, the amusement and entertainment area just above Niagara Falls. My husband and I took a ride on the SkyWheel, which gives a fantastic view of the falls and the river.

the SkyWheel at Niagara Falls


Clifton Hill is a street full of amusement centers, restaurants, gift shops, themed attractions and hotels. Though my husband and I didn't go to any of the attractions, I had great fun looking at all the outrageous signs and displays. I think the House of Frankenstein is a haunted house, but poor Mr Monster was forced (notice the chains) to sell burgers at the neighboring Burger King so I have no idea who's doing the scaring in the mansion.

Frankenstein's monster selling Burger King at Niagara Falls


My favorite building was Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum, designed as a toppled-over tower with a view of the pipes underneath the building. But someone has to explain to me how the car managed to stay on the street.

Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum at Niagara Falls


Is there anything else that Ripley's could have considered to place on top of the tower's spire?

Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum at Niagara Falls


Even if you don't play, the architecture and interior design of Fallsview Casino Resort is worth the visit. Though it also has shops and a theater. This is the upper part of the fountain in the lobby—Victorian Era meets Industrial Age.

the fountain at Fallsview Casino Resort at Niagara Falls


I love the dome over the escalators that lead down to the food court and the promenade overlooking the falls.

glass dome at Fallsview Casino Resort at Niagara Falls