Onguiaahra (meaning “the strait”) is the original Iroquoian name for Niagara Falls – it was changed by Jesuit Missionaries in the 1700’s.

For Christmas this year, I opted to forgo my holiday traditions in California and instead stay on the East Coast.  Enter a rental car, a mini road-trip with my pup and the Falls.

I’d never been before, but had always wanted to see the legendary deluge.

When I arrived in Niagara Falls, New York, I was surprised by what I found; casinos, countless hotels, and chain restaurants (TGI Friday and Hard Rock Cafe, I’m looking at you).

And then I looked across the Niagara River into Ontario. Whao. Vegas of the Great White North.

Not only were there numerous casinos, amusement parks and flashy light, but during the winter months there’s also a holiday faire, nightly fireworks and an evening lights show on the Falls.

Beyond the well-placed tourist distractions, was Niagara.  As expected, the world’s second-largest waterfall was breathtaking!

I still can’t quite wrap my head around the fact that 150,000 gallons of water cascade over Niagara every second!

I was also completely unaware that Niagara is actually made up of two separate Falls; Bridal Veil Falls (USA) and Horseshoe Falls (Canada), separated by Goat Island.

There’s a bit of rivalry between the New York and Ontario Niagara Falls and while both have stunning views, I have to admit that the Canucks win the battle of “Best Views of the Falls.”

They’ve got tunnels for a view behind the Falls and ariel views from the Skylon Tower.

During the winter the uber popular Maid in the Mist boat tour is on hiatus – and rightfully so, as portions of the Falls often freeze.

While I had expected there to be a fair amount of snow, given the season, Niagara was snow-less.  But, it was plenty icy.

Plus, the “mist” from the Falls provided a steady downpour on the Canadian side.

Being a non-traditional Christmas, I had to have an unconventional holiday dinner. Sushi and sake seemed appropriate!

My time at Niagara Falls proved to be an ideal chance to unwind and have a low-key holiday. Not to mention, I got to cross it off my List List!