Niagara Falls, consisting of the American, Bridal Veil and Horseshoe Falls, is a top destination for tourists from around the world. Spanning the international border between Canada and the United States, this colossal waterfall system draws millions of visitors each year with its raw power and resplendent beauty. From thunderous cascades to moonlit rainbows, Niagara Falls offers an extraordinary, memorable experience for all who witness its grandeur. The subject of this article is to answer one of the top questions visitors ask: who really owns Niagara Falls?
Niagara Falls, located between the border of United States and Canada, is not technically owned by anyone. This famous landmark is a natural wonder, just like a mountain or a lake, and it is owned by the respective government bodies on both sides of the border for preservation and conservation purposes.
The land on the U.S. side is overseen by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The area is managed as Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the U.S., with certain areas leased to various tourist attractions such as the Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds.
The land on the Canadian side is overseen by the Niagara Parks Commission, an agency of the Government of Ontario. They are responsible for the upkeep and protection of the land and work to preserve its natural beauty, as well as run various attractions like the Journey Behind the Falls and the Butterfly Conservatory.
Therefore, it's not so much about ownership, but rather who is responsible for its care and protection. In a true display of friendship, the U.S. and Canada share Niagara Falls.