Niagara Falls has captivated visitors since the Seneca (part of the once-mighty Iroquois Nation) first settled the area centuries ago. In the late 17th century, Father Louis Hennepin, one of the first Europeans to "discover" the Falls, was so awestruck by their sheer magnitude that he fell to his knees proclaiming, "The universe does not afford its equal." It did not take long for news of this natural wonder to spread throughout Europe. However stunning the Falls' beauty may have been to early explorers, France and England realized that controlling the Niagara region was paramount if either country planned to use the Great Lakes for trade. Forts began to spring up on either side of the St. Lawrence River, and, in 1759, British forces took sole control of the region. After more bloodshed during the War of 1812, settlements began to rebound and became popular tourist destinations for both Americans and Canadians. Today, little has changed, with Niagara Falls tourism bringing in some one million visitors each year to gather in Niagara, ON, and Niagara, NY, and take in the Falls' magnificence. Our Niagara Falls hotel in Ontario provides convenient access to the Falls as well as other popular Niagara attractions. The Canadian side boasts the most panoramic vista, and the best views are possible from Queen Victoria Park. Don.t forget to stop by Skylon Tower for an incomparable aerial view. Folks can also enrich their knowledge of local Niagara Falls history by visiting Fort George National Historic Park and the Niagara Historical Society Museum. A trip up the Niagara Parkway is a must too, especially for spectacular photos. Folks with discerning palates enjoy excellent Niagara Falls restaurants and wine bars - yes, the region is building a name for itself in oenological circles. Shoppers, too, find that the town is a-bustle with activity and great bargains, as seen in modern Niagara Square's variety of high-end shops