18th century fortress, a thrilling rapids ride and quaint village charm await
Lewiston, NY – Venture seven miles down river from where the mighty Niagara cascades, and explore the Lower Niagara River Region! Encompassing then towns and villages of Lewiston, Youngstown, Porter, Sanborn and Ransomville, the River Region offers a sense of history, a mecca for outdoor sports enthusiasts and fun for the whole family – a great combination for a daylong trip or a full weekend adventure!
The Niagara River has played a key role in the development and history of the River Region and today you can have an up-close experience when you board the Whirlpool Jet Boat and take a heart-pounding ride through the raging rapids. Sitting atop of the Niagara Gorge another “electrifying” experience awaits at the Niagara Power Project’s Power Vista where many have been given an opportunity to touch the power emanating from the mighty falls and learn about the history of hydropower in the region. In addition to adventure and electricity, the River Region also offers some of the best freshwater fishing in the world, including trophy trout, salmon, world-class smallmouth bass, walleye and muskellunge.
Back on land, the history of the River Region comes alive. President Carter even deemed the village of Lewiston “the most historical square mile in America” and today one can hear the ghost stories and town tales with a tour led by some of Lewiston’s most prominent citizens of yesteryear, including a stop at Niagara County’s earliest public cemetery. With its close proximity to Canada, the River Region was also the last stop for many on the Underground Railroad. This journey can be further explored at the Underground Railroad Regional Interpretive Center located in the Castellani Art Museum on the Niagara University campus. At the mouth of the Niagara River and Lake Ontario lies some of the oldest structures on the Great Lakes at Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown. Become part of the action at an encampment of one of the region’s key battles or experience life as it was in the 1700’s.
Wind down a bit and enjoy the slower pace of the River Region. Take a moment for reflection at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, highlighted by a dome Basilica with a contour of the Northern Hemisphere and more than one hundred life-size marble statues of Saints throughout the grounds. Or stroll along the main streets and window shop– the River Region offers a variety of eclectic shops and boutiques. And once you’ve worked up an appetite, restaurants throughout the River Region wil
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