What to do in Niagara Falls

There really are a lot of cool things to see and do at Niagara Falls. Beyond Niagara Falls themselves, there are several other aspects of Niagara that attract millions each year. Obviously, there is the charm of old Niagara on the Lake, the tranquility of the vineyards, the exciting family attractions, and the high-end shows and accommodations. But several also choose to explore this region for its ghostly and paranormal encounters that many have come to experience. With Niagara having the fierce war of 1812, the battlefields and ancient heritage buildings are still haunted to this day with spirits from beyond.

Now while many people would generally shy away from this type of accommodation in Niagara Falls, there are those who would even be willing to pay premium prices to stay in these hideous rooms. The thrill of experiencing something beyond life is an intriguing sensation for some, and it would make your Niagara Falls adventure one they would definitely never forget. Now having said that, in general, guests tend not to find anything, however, just the stories and folklore alone are enough to put their senses into hyperdrive.

In Thorold Ontario, about a 10-minute drive west of Niagara Falls, is the former Keefer Mansion. This building was created in 1886, and was built on the same grounds as the American Hospital during the War of 1812. After being used as a home by the brilliant Engineer Keefer family, it was used as a psychiatric hospital, bar, apartments, and house of Maplehurst Retreat. It has now been completely remodeled to house one of Niagara’s finest Bed & Breakfasts and restaurants. However, the spirits still seem responsible for the footsteps heard inside an upstairs room and the banging on the stairs. The screeching sounds of doors opening, lingering pipe smoke in the basement where figures have been sighted, and taps turning on and off are some of the strange incidents that have occurred here.

After the war of 1812, the city of Niagara on the Lake was burned to the ground when the Americans withdrew from the city. A British officer named “Captain Swayze” was allegedly killed by 2 American soldiers in the basement of what is now known as the “Angel Inn”. Guests say there is a “cold spot” when entering the restrooms, which is commonly known as paranormal activity. They indicate to this day that the British officer appears to have a dislike for Americans to the point where he is known to break the barrels of the “Ameribeer” when innkeepers attempt to serve him.

There are several other areas known for their ghostly encounters and many even offer seasonal haunted tours for guests to experience. Fort George at Niagara on the Lake and Fort Niagara across the river in the US are known for their grisly encounters with the many soldiers who died during 1812. At Niagara Falls you will also find the well-known Drummond Hill Cemetery, where dying soldiers have been seen wandering the fields. A stay at the Econo-Lodge (west of the falls) will leave you a short walk from the cemetery to experience after the sun goes down.