Even when compared to the many astounding sights the natural world has to offer, Niagara Falls stands out for its spectacular power and beauty. In fact, it’s counted among the seven natural wonders of the world, along with Mount Everest, the Grand Canyon and more. For travelers, a visit is, quite simply, an essential part of any globetrotter’s checklist. While their fame might mean taking them for granted, a Niagara Falls vacation will show you the wonder behind their notoriety.

Niagara Falls is actually made up of three falls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, all of which are found along the U.S./Canada border. The width of the falls, combined with their power – an average of 4 million cubic feet of water falls over the crest every minute – make them remarkable among the waterfalls of the world. While standing at the rim of the falls provides an important perspective, a quintessential Niagara Falls vacation experience is getting up close and personal on a Maid of the Mist boat ride. Prepare to get a little – or very – wet as the boat approaches the falls and takes you into the mist and spray.

While the falls will be a centerpiece of any vacation, your itinerary can also give you a more complete experience of the area. Knowing just where else to go and what to do can be a challenge when planning a Niagara Falls vacation, but with a little expert help, your trip can go from fun to fantastic. Tauck, a tour company with more than 87 years of experience, provides a thoughtfully crafted sightseeing schedule that lets you sit back and enjoy the adventure. And at a savings of up to 40 percent over independent planning and travel, it’s even easier to relax and revel.

Wondering what else you might want to include on your Niagara Falls vacation? Consider these ideas:

1. Visit the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. This lovely town is considered one of the prettiest in Ontario, if not all of Canada. Its charming atmosphere and historic architecture make it perfect for strolling and browsing, but another attraction will grab the attention of foodies and wine enthusiasts. The region produces top-quality ice wines, and Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to wineries offering tastings of the best local varieties.

2. Get a taste of cosmopolitan Toronto. On the leading edge of urban trends and technology, Toronto is a city-lover’s dream. Indulge in its fine restaurants, wander through its galleries and boutiques, and explore sights like the sky-grazing CN Tower, one of the tallest freestanding structures on earth.

3. Experience the feel of Europe in both Montreal and Quebec City, where you can immerse in the atmosphere of Francophone Canada. Surrounded by Old World architecture and French-speaking populations, you might forget that both cities are in North America. Don’t miss the opportunities for fine dining, top-notch sightseeing and exploring the arts in either place.

To learn more about what you can see on a well-planned Niagara Falls vacation, visit Tauck online.