Niagara Falls Roundup

"Awesome!" That's how even the most "been there, done it" teenager describes Niagara Falls.

This spectacular wonder of the world still mesmerizes travelers from around the world.

The falls can be seen from many vantage points. Take a family stroll through the first state park in the nation, the Niagara Falls Reservation State Park, where you can see the Niagara River before it crashes 176 feet to the base. At the Visitors Center, you can enjoy an emotional tribute to the falls in the film "Niagara Wonders."

Or see the falls from the bottom up. Don slickers (provided) and travel on a Maid of the Mist boat tour (716/284-8897) and feel the churning power of the water.

Cover up (the youngsters will love putting on the rain gear again) and walk down a winding staircase in the Cave of the Winds in the Niagara Reservation State Park (716/278-1770), where you can see the Bridal Veil Falls through the mist.

Or soar overhead by helicopter and see what one of nature's most powerful forces looks like from above. Rainbow Helicopters (716/284-2800) provide tours. After the falls, you will find plenty of other attractions in the area. Within walking distance is Wintergarden (716/286-4940), a majestic glass-enclosed tropical park with ponds, waterfalls, and an endless variety of trees and plants. Visit the Niagara Power Project Visitor's Center, 5777 Lewiston Road, where an observation deck provides a breathtaking view of the Niagara River gorge. The entire family can learn about electric power by pushing buttons, pulling levers, and more. Admission is free.

Or stop at the Schoellkopf Geological Museum (716/278-1780), where you can learn more about the 440 million year history of the falls. The Aquarium at Niagara Falls (716/285-3575) overlooks the Niagara River gorge and features 2000 marine specimens, including penguins, harbor seals, sharks and lion fish. Dolphins and sea lions perform hourly.