Niagara Falls’ first cultural attraction in decades finally opens today, and I can already tell you it should be at the top of any itinerary in Western New York.

The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is one of those complex projects that has been in the pipeline forever. Located in the historic United States Customs House attached to the New Niagara Falls Train Station, this museum experience tells the stories of slaves on their last dash for freedom to Canada.

The museum heavily focuses on the Cataract Hotel, and its role in getting fugitive slaves across the border to safety. These stories, many of which have never been told before, come to life in the museum. The sounds of carriages and trains can be heard throughout, and visitors actually get a chance to cross over a replica of the Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge to freedom.

One of the highlights of the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center comes at the end. The legacy of slavery in the United States flows into modern social issues, and brings to life some modern local heroes continuing to fight for what’s right.

The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is located at 825 Depot Avenue W., Niagara Falls, NY. It is currently open Tuesdays through Sundays. For more information on hours and admission prices, please visit the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad website.

-Sheepie ❤