Episode 17 | Experience Journey Behind The Falls

Hello fellow wanderers!

As the age-old saying goes, some experiences never get old. They merely morph, their beauty deepening, their lure becoming more irresistible. One such experience is the 'Journey Behind The Falls.' We are thrilled to report that this iconic adventure has been reimagined by Niagara Parks and we at Aimlessly Wandering had the pleasure to be invited to an exclusive sneak peek of this grand reopening.

To chart our journey, we begin with Chris Giles, Senior Manager of Communications and Marketing at Niagara Parks. He brings us up to speed on the fresh, innovative approach to the guest experience that this redesigned attraction has to offer.

However, the transformation goes beyond surface aesthetics. It reaches into the roots of culture and heritage. Our guide to this historical pivot is Tim Johnson, Senior Advisor to the Niagara Parks Commission for Heritage, Legacy, and Indigenous Engagement. His insights focus on a breathtaking reproduction of an oil canvas painting by Indigenous artist Oren Lyons, "Maid of the Mist and the Thunder Beings." The artwork anchors the space, serving as a cornerstone for the reinterpretation of the area.

April Jeffs, Chair of the Niagara Parks Board, walks us through the redesigned queue area, a reinvention that aims to elevate the visitor experience to new heights. This isn't just a waiting room; it's an immersive, interactive tribute to the evolution of the Falls and the rich tapestry of Niagara's history.

The journey takes a literal downward dive as we descend into the core of the Journey Behind The Falls. It's a visceral, riveting experience. The power of the falls reverberates, and the spray of the mist is a tangible reminder of nature's unfettered majesty. Our dear friend Matt, who was rather underwhelmed by the waterfalls in Hawaii, seems to have found redemption here. His awe-struck quote: "Now 'that's' a waterfall."

Starting July 1, every guest stepping into the redesigned Journey Behind The Falls will embark on an unforgettable odyssey. It spans the geological formation of the Falls, the region's indigenous heritage, and the rise of Niagara Falls as a globally revered travel destination.

With the redesign, Niagara Parks adds a fascinating chapter to its history, enhancing the visitor experience while preserving and presenting its heritage. Its $22 million investment bears fruit in a seamless blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that promises to engage, educate, and excite.

In the redesigned "Journey Behind The Falls," adventure awaits at every turn. Each nuance of this experience has been carefully curated, the old interwoven with the new, to create a dynamic visitor journey that's immersive, enlightening, and absolutely exhilarating.

So, join us in this incredible exploration of a beloved attraction given a new lease on life. Step into a captivating blend of history, culture, and awe-inspiring natural wonder with Aimlessly Wandering. We promise an unforgettable journey.