Niagara Falls

[Ed Richards]

The last threads on Niagara Falls (http://www.largeformatphotography.info/forum/showthread.php?78500-Hidden-locations-in-niagara-falls) are old, so I am starting a new one. We are headed to that area in June. The last thread recommended staying on the Canadian side. Is that still good advice? Is it a difficult border crossing, say if you hit it at 7pm or so? (We will be driving in from Washington DC.)

Anything changed on recommendations of things to see? I am interested in Forts, any to check out between DC and Niagara Falls, other than Fort Niagara?

[Ron Stowell]

There are many fine hotels/motels on the canadian side of the falls.
There is also the butterfly gardens and the botanical gardens on the Canadian side
Crossing the border may be a hassle. I believe you need a passport.
If memory serves me correctly you may need a copy of your birth certificate and proof of insurance on your auto.
It has been about 10 years since I have crossed the border so best to gooogle border crossing.

[Michael Graves]

For a US Citizen, you can cross over into Canada with either a passport or an Enhanced Driver's License. I go up to Montreal rather frequently and have had zero issues crossing over with my EDL. The only time I got slowed down a bit was when we thought we had our dog's vaccination records, but they got left behind on the credenza before we hit the road. If bringing a pet, make sure you have the tags, registration and vaccination records.

[cowanw]

Not being an American, I am not a party to this, but my understanding is that one needs to prove American Citizenship to get back into the US.
I always use the railway bridge just past the main downtown, as I always find it a bit less traffic.
Be sure you take the time to go under the falls, for a close and nice view with your camera (protect from spray)
http://www.niagaraparks.com/attractions/behind-the-falls.html
The Marriot, Embassy or Oakes offer great views from your rooms.
google Niagara Falls Hotels and look at the map.

[Ed Richards]

I have crossed at other locations and used my passport. I do not think Louisiana offers enhanced drivers licenses. Can you sign those with an X?:)

[cowanw]

Quite possibly, I know many people who legally sign with an X...sadly

[sun of sand]

I'd say stay away from the american side altogether

Niagara Falls USA
Where you'd never know there was a Niagara Falls USA

[photobymike]

Its a drivers license that meets federal standards for identification ..... 3 or 4 forms of id needed to get including birth certificate ... i wonder if Obama has one these.... before you get all "hairy" on me i ment it as a joke....

[C. D. Keth]

Alec Soth has a very good series, all in 8x10, on that very thing called "Niagara." (http://alecsoth.com/photography/projects/niagra/)