Hotel Crowne Plaza Fallsview

Located among the chaos of naf hotels, game arcades and cheap bars that surrounds Niagara Falls, the hotel is one of the highest buildings, boasting beautiful views of the Falls, making up a big part of its draw. Everything in Niagara Falls is within walking distance.

The Crowne Plaza is the only real historical gem here in the area. It was built in 1920 and has been an operating hotel since. Part of the same group as the Sheraton next door, guests here have the added bonus of being able to use facilities at both hotels.

The Crowne Plaza is part of the same group as neighbouring Sheraton. The hotel was one of the first in the area - it was built in 1920 and was formerly known as 'The Brock Plaza Hotel'. The two hotels are actually interconnected, making it easy for guests from both hotels to use all the facilities. The hotel is also adjoined to a water park, which is very hand if you are travelling with children. There is also a small gallery of fast food restaurants and bars, like the Rainforest Café.

The Crowne Plaza was our favourite hotel in the area due to its history and although the interiors a bit brag and garish, we liked its chintzy charm! From the moment you enter the grand spiral staircase, the original from its hey-day, to the hotel's heavy floral carpets and velvet drapes, its authentic charm manages to shine through. Imagining the likes of bombshell icon, Marilyn Monroe, swaning around the hotel corridors surrounded by her entourage, recalls a time of glamour and success. The skies painted on ceilings and certain references to Greek and Roman history lift the dull reds and browns.

In terms of facilities, guests also have access to a business centre, the Fallsview Rainbow Massimo Capra Restaurant, which has breathtaking views of the Falls. There is complimentary Wi-Fi access in the lobby area but it comes at a charge to use the connection in the rooms. Otherwise there is also a pool, 24-hour gym, Jacuzzi and sauna.

There are five different room categories that vary mainly in size and view. Apart from a couple of themed rooms, like Marilyn's room in 1104, where the room is decorated with portraits if the star, the rest are decorated in a neutral palette of creams and gold. The Traditional, Fallsview and Superior Fallsview are available with two queen-size beds or a king size bed. All rooms have large flat screen televisions, in-room safes, iron/ironing board, CD player and coffee-machine. They are all very spacious and with floor-to-ceiling windows, they are airy and bright, making them a very pleasant space. Room service is offered but only within the same hours as restaurant opening times.

Some rooms have a balcony, so enquire about this at the time of booking.

Picture perfect views of the Falls can be admired from The Rainbow Room Restaurant on the 10th floor. The panoramic views are well worth stopping by the hotel for. The international menu of the restaurant was developed by celebrated Chef, Author and TV Host Massimo Capra. The menu showcases the rich ingredients produced in the Niagara Region from fruits and vegetables, to meat and game. The Rainbow Room also features an extensive wine list hand-picked by Canada's foremost wine authority Tony Aspler which highlights Niagara's award winning wineries. There is also a Starbucks on the ground floor that is open till late. The multi-tiered restaurant's non-descript décor is lifted by the enormous bay window that lines the front end, looking out onto the American and Horseshoes falls. Beware though, as the dining halls gets extremely manic at meal times and guests are not always the most civilised when it comes to waiting their turn in line!