We docked at historic Tonawanda, located at the west end of the Erie Canal.
The colorful flowers and creative displays always catch our attention.
We soon discovered that Tonawanda is "Boating Central" on the weekends!!
We caught a Lyft ride to Niagara Falls Park on this picture-perfect day.
Our first viewing area was at Prospect Point and "WOW"!
The magnificent power, the magic, and the beauty were awe-inspiring!
We watched the "Maid of the Mist" cruise to Horseshoe Falls as rainbows danced across the water.
We hiked the flower-lined path along the rapids and across the bridge to Goat Island.
The buildings in the background are actually in Canada.
Horseshoe Falls was breathtaking . . . .
. . . . and the constant mist kept us damp and hydrated!!
We enjoyed a spectacular view of the Rainbow Bridge connecting Canada to America . . . .
. . . . and views of the Canadian skyline.
Hiking the entire Niagara Falls Park allowed us to stop at ALL the scenic look-outs . . . .
. . . . and they were ALWAYS spectacular!
Our Niagara Falls Bucket List adventure completed, it's time to depart for Buffalo.
Because there were more low fixed bridges to get under, Spiritus stayed "decapitated" until the next stop.
Cruising west, we approached the bridge we crossed with our Lyft driver on our way back from Niagara Falls.
One of two bridges that opened to allow Spiritus passage on Black Rock Canal.
Looking back at Black Rock Lock, the last lock we'll see for quite a while.
A "jack knife" bridge opened for Spiritus. It's super cool to watch this phenomenal operation!
Spiritus comfortably traveled in the protection of the canal, avoiding the swift current of the adjacent Niagara River. Looking to starboard we saw Peace Bridge, connecting Canada to the U.S.A.
We arrived at Buffalo, New York's second largest city and in the mid 1800's, the largest and most prosperous city along the Great Lakes.
Spiritus was docked at Buffalo's Erie Basin Marina for 2 days, where we enjoyed July 4th festivities.
Our slip provided us a front row view of Lake Erie, beautiful sunsets, and spectacular fireworks!
Happy Birthday America!!
The Captain had lots to celebrate as we stepped up our mast and put up our bimini today!
Enjoying "Happy Dogs" and fireworks from our Spiritus made for a memorable July 4th!
July 5th we cruised west, spotting many patriotic July 4th helium balloons floating on Lake Erie.
At least they weren't crab pots!!
Safe Harbor Marina in Erie, Pennsylvania was a fun, friendly, and productive stop.
It's not ALL fun and games; we do have to do laundry! Our natural dryer is extremely efficient!
After chores were completed, a walk to the Sloppy Duck was our reward.
The First Mate grabbed a bear hug before our beer and fish dinner!
And the Captain insisted on finishing our meal with this decadent dessert!
Spiritus scored a new flag as a result of our stop at the marina's well-stocked Ship's Store.
After a long but smooth sail on Lake Erie, we spotted the Grand River Light House.
Entering the river, we saw the locals enjoying water sports, swimming, and a summer carnival.
A distant American flag surrounded by jeeps caught our eye as we cruised to our marina.
The First Mate is trying to figure out how far Grand River is from our next stop; Cleveland!
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