What most tourists do not know is that Niagara Falls has a very interesting historical background.
It was probably first discovered by Native American tribes living in the area. The French explorer, Father Louis Hennepin, was the first European to record its existence when he saw it in December 1678.
The area was initially controlled by Iroquois tribes. After its discovery, the region became a French stronghold and was later occupied by the British. It was an important trading post. Many battles were fought for control over Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls was an important stop on the Underground Railroad that helped slaves escape from America. It was also the scene of many battles during the War of 1812 between the British and the Americans.
If you are a history buff, you will find lots to explore in Niagara Falls. You can visit war memorials, historic places and buildings, and museums.
Historical tours in Niagara Falls offer you a chance to see all the preserved sites and buildings in and around Niagara Falls.
Forts
There are two forts close to Niagara Falls – Old Fort Erie in the town of Fort Erie near Lake Erie and Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake near Lake Ontario. Both are designated as National Historic Sites of Canada. They function as living museums. Visitors can see reenactments of barracks life and battle scenes.
Queenston Heights
One of the defining battles during the War of 1812 was the Battle of Queenston Heights at Queenston Heights. The site is now preserved as a memorial park and has the Brock Monument which was built to honour Major-General Sir Isaac Brock of the British Army who died in battle.
Chippawa Battlefield Park
The Battle of Chippawa was fought on July 5, 1814 during the War of 1812 and ended in victory for the Americans over the British. The site is preserved in the Chippawa Battlefield Park near the banks of the Niagara River. Spread over 121 hectares (300 acres), there is a battle monument on site. About 200 American, British, Canadian and Native warriors lost their lives that day, most of who are thought to be buried at the battle site. Take a self-guided walking tour and retrace the events of the day.
Laura Secord Homestead
Laura Secord was an important figure in Niagara’s history. She left her home and walked over 30 km in 1813 to warn British forces of an impending American attack. Take a guided tour of her restored residence in Queenston and learn more about the history of the area.
McFarland House
Built in 1800, McFarland House in Niagara-on-the-Lake was the home of John McFarland. It served as a hospital for British and American troops during the War of 1812. The house is a great example of Georgian architecture. McFarland and his descendents lived in the house for nearly 140 years.
The renovated house is open for tours by guides in period costumes. You can enjoy tea, scones, desserts or a luncheon in the tea room.
Niagara Falls History Museum
Located at 5810 Ferry Street, the museum has a vast collection of the region’s history, from artifacts to historical documents, costumes, etc. You can check out the museum timings and admission fee here. The place is close to Lundy’s Lane Battlefield.
Lundy’s Lane
Lundy’s Lane is another historical place in Niagara Falls. The Battle of Lundy’s Lane was fought here. You can take a self-guided walking tour (with the help of a map) of Lundy’s Lane Battlefield and the cemetery on Drummond Road (close to the battlefield). The cemetery has the Battle of Lundy’s Lane Memorial, along with memorials and tombstones of many American and Canadian soldiers.
Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Centre
The Underground Railroad was a network of people, routes, and safe houses in the United States during the early to mid-1800s that aided runaway slaves escape to free territories like Canada and Nova Scotia. Niagara Falls which is just across the US border was one of the stops for escaping slaves. Visitors to the museum can see various exhibits and listen to the stories of slaves and the people who helped them escape.
Historical Tours in Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is filled with history. Other historical places that are interesting are the Mackenzie Printery & Newspaper Museum and Willoughby Historical Museum.
Niagara Falls has many beautiful old buildings, homes, and bridges. Take a walk down River Road and you will see many beautiful Victorian-era houses.
Book a private tour and you can visit all the historical places in Niagara Falls. Create an itinerary with your tour operator of all the places you want to visit and spend an entire day touring the many historical sites in and around Niagara Falls.
Mississauga To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Mississauga To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Toronto To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Toronto To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Oakville To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Oakville To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
