Niagara Falls, Natural waterfalls in New York State, United States
Niagara Falls is a city in New York State located on the eastern bank of the Niagara River, directly across from its Canadian counterpart and sharing the border that runs through the middle of the famous waterfalls. The American side of the river forms the edge of the city, with parks and residential neighborhoods extending inland from the gorge that carries water between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.
The city grew during the early nineteenth century as an industrial center, with the power of falling water driving mills and factories that lined the riverbank. By the late nineteenth century the area shifted toward tourism as railway connections brought visitors from distant regions and hotels began opening along the gorge.
The New York State Park at Niagara Falls, established in 1885, represents early conservation efforts in America and marks the first state park in New York's history.
Visitors who want to see both sides of the waterfalls need to cross the international bridge and should keep a passport or other border documents ready. Parking is available on both shores, but the center of the American city can also be explored on foot if staying near the parks.
The city contains an underground tunnel system originally built for hydroelectric power plants and now accessible through guided tours. The tunnels run deep beneath the streets and offer a glimpse into the early engineering that harnessed the river for energy.
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