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Feel the adrenaline as you descend 175 feet in about 30 seconds in an elevator. Reach the Hurricane Deck by treading on wooden walkways and feel the force of the Bridal Veil Falls right above you.
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Cave of the Winds Tours
Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Seasonal update
Maid of the Mist is now open for the season. You can choose tours that include the cruise to get right up close to Niagara Falls.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION1 hour 30 minutes - 2 hours
Start point
Niagara Falls USA
1. Cave of the Winds
Descend into the Niagara Gorge and experience Cave of the Winds, where a series of wooden walkways leads to the famous Hurricane Deck near Bridal Veil Falls. Feel the mist and power of the rushing water from just steps away.
2. World Changed Here Pavilion
3. Guided tour
End point
Niagara Falls USA
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Trace how this waterfall reshaped lives through a history-rich experience at the edge of Niagara Falls.
- Everything you get: Entry to Cave of the Winds takes you into the Niagara Gorge, where walkways and viewing platforms bring you close to the rushing water. Feel the spray, hear the roar, and experience the power of Niagara Falls from a unique perspective near the base of the falls.
- Why choose this: Choose this experience if you want more than scenic views, with insights into how Niagara Falls has influenced history, industry, and the people who have lived and worked around it.
- Options: Choose a guided tour that includes the Hurricane Deck experience, access to the World Changed Here Pavilion, and a poncho, or opt for a premium small-group walking tour with skip-the-line entry and views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Trace how this waterfall reshaped lives through a history-rich experience at the edge of Niagara Falls.
- Everything you get: Entry to Cave of the Winds takes you into the Niagara Gorge, where walkways and viewing platforms bring you close to the rushing water. Feel the spray, hear the roar, and experience the power of Niagara Falls from a unique perspective near the base of the falls.
- Why choose this: Choose this experience if you want more than scenic views, with insights into how Niagara Falls has influenced history, industry, and the people who have lived and worked around it.
- Options: Choose a guided tour that includes the Hurricane Deck experience, access to the World Changed Here Pavilion, and a poncho, or opt for a premium small-group walking tour with skip-the-line entry and views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Inclusions
- Entry to Cave of the Winds
- Hurricane Deck experience (as per option selected)
- Access to the World Changed Here Pavilion (as per option selected)
- Skip-the-line entry (as per option selected)
- Views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls (as per option selected)
- Guided historical tour (as per option selected)
- Premium small-group guided walking tour (as per option selected)
- Niagara Falls State Park walk (as per option selected)
- Poncho (as per option selected)
Accessibility
- Wheelchair access: This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
- Strollers: This experience is pram and stroller accessible.
- Service animals: Service animals are welcome at the venue.
Additional information
- Age restriction: Children ages 5 years and younger are not allowed to participate in this experience.
- Water exposure: You may get very wet during Cave of the Winds, so wear clothing and shoes suitable for splashing water.
- Tour location: The guided tour takes place entirely on the US side and does not include crossing the bridge into Canada.
- Walking level: The tour is fully walking based and is not recommended for guests with significant mobility limitations.
- Meeting point: Some tours start at the Nikola Tesla Statue in Niagara Falls State Park, New York.
- Transportation: This experience does not include any vehicle transportation, hotel pickup, or drop-off.
- Boat rides: This experience does not include the Maid of the Mist boat ride.
- Other attractions: This experience does not include Journey Behind the Falls.
- Meals: This experience does not include meals or refreshments.
- Weather: The tour operates in most weather conditions.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this tour.
- Duration: The small-group walking tour option lasts approximately 2 hours.
- Group size: The small-group tour runs with about 10 to 12 guests for a more personalized experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours 30 minutes
TimelineMap
Start point
Hard Rock Café (333 Prospect St)
1. Niagara Falls
Exploring Niagara Falls with a tour guide offers deeper insights, hidden viewpoints, and a seamless experience through the park’s top attractions. Please note that the sequence of attractions may vary based on the tour operator’s itinerary.
2. Maid of the Mist
3. Niagara Observation Tower
4. Prospect Point
5. Goat Island
6. Terrapin Point
7. Luna Island
8. Cave of the Winds
End point
Hard Rock Café (333 Prospect St)
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Experience boat, cave, and tower viewpoints in one route that keeps you near the action rather than waiting in multiple ticket lines.
- Everything you get: Ride the Maid of the Mist, enjoy timed entry to Cave of the Winds, and visit the Niagara Observation Tower for panoramic views of the Falls. A complimentary poncho is included to help keep you comfortable around the mist and spray.
- Why choose this: Combine Niagara Falls USA's three signature attractions in a single guided experience, with options ranging from standard tours to more personalized small-group experiences.
- Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, enjoy a guided tour of Goat Island, round-trip transportation from downtown Niagara Falls, a premium small-group experience with a maximum of 10 guests, or a small-group tour with a maximum of 7 guests.
Experience boat, cave, and tower viewpoints in one route that keeps you near the action rather than waiting in multiple ticket lines.
- Everything you get: Ride the Maid of the Mist, enjoy timed entry to Cave of the Winds, and visit the Niagara Observation Tower for panoramic views of the Falls. A complimentary poncho is included to help keep you comfortable around the mist and spray.
- Why choose this: Combine Niagara Falls USA's three signature attractions in a single guided experience, with options ranging from standard tours to more personalized small-group experiences.
- Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, enjoy a guided tour of Goat Island, round-trip transportation from downtown Niagara Falls, a premium small-group experience with a maximum of 10 guests, or a small-group tour with a maximum of 7 guests.
Inclusions
- Maid of the Mist boat tour
- Timed entry to Cave of the Winds
- Entry to Niagara Observation Tower
- English-speaking guide
- Poncho
- Guided tour of Goat Island (as per option selected)
- Round-trip transfers from downtown Niagara Falls (as per option selected)
- Premium small-group tour with a maximum 10 guests (as per option selected)
- Small-group tour with a maximum 7 guests (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Food and drinks
Accessibility
- Mobility access: This experience is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers due to frequent staircases, narrow paths, and uneven archaeological surfaces.
Additional information
- Seasonal operations: The Maid of the Mist boat tour is not operational during winter months and will be replaced by an alternative experience.
- Splash warning: Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist experiences take you close to the falls, so expect to get wet and wear suitable clothing.
- Tour location: This tour operates only on the USA side of Niagara Falls and does not cross into Canada.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tours
(169)
Niagara Falls USA: Small-Group Tour with Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds & Transportation
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERWalk
TimelineMap
Start point
Downtown Niagara Falls
1. Maid of the Mist
Board the iconic boat and get up close to the powerful base of the Falls for an unforgettable, misty experience.
P.S.: Don't forget to wear the complimentary ponchos. This ride can get very wet!
2. Crow's Nest Walkway
3. Prospect Point Observation Tower
4. Whirlpool State Park
5. Niagara Gorge origin viewpoint/Power Vista area
6. Goat Island
7. Luna Island
8. Cave of the Winds
9. Three Sisters Island
End point
Downtown Niagara Falls
Your ending point would be same as your start point
See Niagara Falls USA's top attractions with hotel transfers and a small-group experience limited to just seven guests.
- Everything you get: Enjoy round-trip hotel transportation from Niagara Falls, USA, and visit three of the area's signature attractions: Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and Prospect Point Observation Tower. Explore the Falls from the water, from the gorge, and from an elevated viewing platform.
- Why choose this: Experience Niagara Falls USA's most popular attractions in one convenient outing, with transportation and admission included.
- Options: Depending on the option selected, enjoy the Niagara Virtual Experience in winter or visit Niagara Power Vista or Legends for additional insight into the Falls and its history.
See Niagara Falls USA's top attractions with hotel transfers and a small-group experience limited to just seven guests.
- Everything you get: Enjoy round-trip hotel transportation from Niagara Falls, USA, and visit three of the area's signature attractions: Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and Prospect Point Observation Tower. Explore the Falls from the water, from the gorge, and from an elevated viewing platform.
- Why choose this: Experience Niagara Falls USA's most popular attractions in one convenient outing, with transportation and admission included.
- Options: Depending on the option selected, enjoy the Niagara Virtual Experience in winter or visit Niagara Power Vista or Legends for additional insight into the Falls and its history.
Inclusions
- Entry to Maid of the Mist
- Entry to Cave of the Winds
- Entry to Prospect Point Observation Tower
- Round-trip hotel transportation from Niagara Falls, USA
- Small-group tour (maximum 7 guests)
- Niagara Virtual Experience in winter (as per option selected)
- Niagara Power Vista or Legends experience (as per option selected)
What to bring
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes and waterproof shoes.
- Water: Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.
Additional information
- Seasonal operations: The Maid of the Mist boat tour does not operate in winter months from December to April.
- Winter alternatives: When Maid of the Mist is closed, your experience will feature the Niagara Virtual Experience, Niagara Power Vista, or Niagara Legends of Adventure as per your selected option.
- Tour duration: Tour lengths can vary slightly depending on traffic and the time of year.
- Off-peak timing: During quieter seasons, the tour may end a bit earlier because there are fewer crowds.
- Physical activity: Moderate walking is required during this guided tour.
- Weather: The experience operates in all weather conditions, so please dress accordingly.
- Food and drinks: Meals, snacks, and refreshments are not included in this tour.
- Gratuities: Tips for your guide and driver are not included in the tour price.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
Start point
Niagara Falls USA
1. Maid of the Mist
Begin your Niagara Falls adventure aboard the world-famous Maid of the Mist. Cruise past the American and Bridal Veil Falls before heading into the mist-filled basin of Horseshoe Falls for an unforgettable close-up experience.
P.S.: Be sure to wear the complimentary rain poncho, or you'll get wonderfully wet!
2. Guided tour of Niagara Falls State Park
End point
Niagara Falls USA
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Combine a boat ride and time on foot as your guide shares stories and makes the gorge feel close.
- Everything you get: Join an English-speaking guide and board the iconic Maid of the Mist boat cruise (seasonal, typically May–November). Sail toward the base of the American and Horseshoe Falls for close-up views of the cascading water, then continue exploring Niagara Falls with insights into the area's history, geology, and famous landmarks.
- Why choose this: Enjoy the convenience of a guided experience that includes the iconic Maid of the Mist, making it easy to see Niagara Falls' most famous attraction without planning the details yourself.
- Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, add admission to Cave of the Winds and the Niagara Observation Tower, a guided walking tour, a small-group experience with a maximum of seven guests, hotel transportation within Niagara Falls, shuttle transfers between attractions, and a complimentary rain poncho.
Combine a boat ride and time on foot as your guide shares stories and makes the gorge feel close.
- Everything you get: Join an English-speaking guide and board the iconic Maid of the Mist boat cruise (seasonal, typically May–November). Sail toward the base of the American and Horseshoe Falls for close-up views of the cascading water, then continue exploring Niagara Falls with insights into the area's history, geology, and famous landmarks.
- Why choose this: Enjoy the convenience of a guided experience that includes the iconic Maid of the Mist, making it easy to see Niagara Falls' most famous attraction without planning the details yourself.
- Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, add admission to Cave of the Winds and the Niagara Observation Tower, a guided walking tour, a small-group experience with a maximum of seven guests, hotel transportation within Niagara Falls, shuttle transfers between attractions, and a complimentary rain poncho.
Inclusions
- Admission to the Maid of the Mist boat tour (seasonal; typically operates May–November)
- English-speaking guide
- Admission to the Niagara Observation Tower (as per option selected)
- Entry to Cave of the Winds (as per option selected)
- Walking tour of Niagara Falls (as per option selected)
- Small-group Niagara Falls tour (as per option selected)
- Shuttle to Cave of the Winds (as per option selected)
- Hotel transportation in Niagara Falls (as per option selected)
- Rain poncho (as per option selected)
- Group size: maximum seven guests (as per option selected)
What to bring
- Extra layers: Both attractions provide a free plastic poncho, but you may want a jacket or change of clothes as it can be damp and cool.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair access: This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
- Strollers: This experience is pram or stroller accessible, but you must leave strollers in the designated area before boarding the boat.
- Guide dogs: Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
Additional information
- Seasonal operation: The Maid of the Mist boat ride is not operational during winter months.
- Winter replacement: When the boat is not operating, the experience is replaced by the Cave of the Winds.
- Tour location: This tour takes place entirely on the US side and does not include crossing the bridge into Canada.
- Maid of the Mist season: Maid of the Mist operates seasonally and is available from May for most variants.
- Alternative experiences: On certain small-group tours, Maid of the Mist may be replaced by Niagara Power Vista or Niagara Legends of Adventure when not operating.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tours
(101)
Niagara Falls USA: Helicopter Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION5 hours
TimelineMap
Start point
Downtown Niagara Falls, USA
1. Prospect Point Observation Tower
Before boarding the boat, enjoy stunning views from the Prospect Point Observation Tower above the dock. Marvel at the view from the only place on the US side where you can see all three falls—American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.
2. Maid of the Mist
3. Goat Island
4. Cave of the Winds
5. Helicopter Ride Over the Falls
End point
Downtown Niagara Falls, USA
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Combine air, land, and water views in a small-group outing with round-trip downtown transport.
- Everything you get: An 8 minute helicopter ride, Maid of the Mist boat ride, entry to Cave of the Winds and the Observation Tower, a guided walk on Goat Island with an English speaking guide, round trip downtown transportation, and a small group capped at seven guests.
- Why choose this: Follow a set itinerary that strings together highlights for you, cutting out separate tickets and on the day logistics.
Combine air, land, and water views in a small-group outing with round-trip downtown transport.
- Everything you get: An 8 minute helicopter ride, Maid of the Mist boat ride, entry to Cave of the Winds and the Observation Tower, a guided walk on Goat Island with an English speaking guide, round trip downtown transportation, and a small group capped at seven guests.
- Why choose this: Follow a set itinerary that strings together highlights for you, cutting out separate tickets and on the day logistics.
Inclusions
- 8-minute helicopter ride
- Maid of the Mist boat ride
- Entry tickets to Cave of the Winds
- Entry tickets to Observation Tower
- Guided tour of Goat Island
- English-speaking guide
- Round-trip transportation from downtown Niagara Falls, USA
- Small group, up to 7 people
Exclusions
- Food and drinks
What’s not allowed
- Helicopter age limit: The helicopter ride is not permitted for infants or guests under the height of 1.02 meters (3.3 feet).
Additional information
- Maid of the Mist seasonality: The Maid of the Mist boat tour does not operate in winter and will be replaced by Niagara Power Vista or Niagara Legends of Adventure.
- Pickup confirmation: Your exact pickup time will be shared by email or phone 1 to 3 days before your tour.
- Early arrival: If you cannot access email or phone, please wait in your hotel lobby at least 30 minutes before the tour start time.
- Tour duration: The total tour duration may vary slightly based on traffic and the season.
- Weather for helicopters: Helicopter flights operate only in good weather conditions.
- Helicopter changes: If helicopters are not running, you may receive a voucher to return later or a partial refund; please confirm with your tour guide.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Why go on a Cave of the Winds tour
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Feel the rush on the Hurricane Deck
Find the best Cave of the Winds tour for you
Experience
Key inclusions
Duration
Round-trip transfers
Food & drinks
Best for
Book tickets
Niagara Falls (USA) and Cave of the Winds Guided Tour
Cave of the Winds, guided historical tour, The World Changed Here Pavilion
1.5hr
Not included
Not included
Those short on time who want a focused Cave of the Winds experience
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Observation Tower Guided Tour
Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist boat ride, Niagara Observation Tower, English-speaking guide
4hr
Not included
Not included
People who want both boat and walkway experiences
Niagara Falls (USA) Small Group Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds with Transportation
Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist boat ride, guided walking tour
4hr
Hotel transportation from Niagara Falls, USA
Not included
If you’re seeking a more personalized adventure in smaller groups
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Helicopter Tour
8-min helicopter ride over Niagara Falls USA, Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist boat ride, guided walking tour
5hr
Round-trip transportation from downtown Niagara Falls, USA
Not included
Adventurers who want aerial views along with the classic Niagara attractions
Highlights of Cave of the Winds: the ultimate up-close adventure
See all photos
Cave of the Winds timings throughout the year
The Cave of the Winds at Niagara Falls opens every day but remains closed on December 25 (Christmas Day), November 28 (Thanksgiving Day), and January 1 (New Year's Day).
May 16 - May 23
9am to 6:15pm (Sun-Fri)
9am to 8:15pm (Sat)
May 24 - May 27
(Memorial Day Weekend)
9am to 9:15pm (Fri-Sun)
9am to 6:15pm (Mon)
May 28 - June 12
9am to 6:15pm (Sun-Fri)
9am to 8:15pm (Sat)
June 13 - July 3
9am to 8:15pm (Sun-Thur)
9am to 6:15pm (Fri-Sat)
July 4 - July 7
(Independence Day Weekend)
9am to 8:15pm (Thurs-Sat)
9am to 8:15pm (Sun)
August 30 - September 2
(Labor Day Weekend)
9am to 9:15pm (Fri-Sun)
9am to 6:15pm (Mon)
September 3 - October 11
9am to 6:15pm (Sun-Fri)
9am to 8:15pm (Sat)
October 12 - October 14
(Indigenous Day Weekend)
9am to 6:15pm (Sat-Sun)
9am to 4:15pm (Mon)
October 15 - October 20
9am to 4:15pm
October 21 - December 31
9am to 4pm
December 25 (Christmas Day)
November 28 (Thanksgiving Day)
January 1 (New Years Day)
Closed
Where is Cave of the Winds?
The Cave of the Winds attraction is set up on Goat Island.
Location: 10 Goat Island Loop Road, Niagara Falls, NY | Find on Maps
Parking: Niagara Falls State Park provides ample parking with four designated lots. Nearby city parking lots are also conveniently located within walking distance, offering easy access to the Falls and surrounding attractions.
Getting to Niagara FallsVisitor tips
- The Cave of the Winds is accessible by wheelchair.
- Niagara Falls State Park offers plenty of restaurants to grab a bite.
- The Park has four gift shops to buy souvenirs such as apparel, glassware, gifts, and books for friends and family.
- Feel free to use the complimentary poncho and footwear for safety, but since you'll definitely get drenched, it's wise to bring an extra raincoat and change of clothes.
- Arrive when the Park opens to avoid waiting in line for a ticket.
Frequently asked questions about Niagara Falls Cave of the Winds tours
What is included in the Cave of the Winds tours?
Depending on the tour you choose, apart from access to Cave of the Winds, your inclusions can range from guided walking tours of the attraction to combo experiences inclusive of the Maid of the Mist boat ride, Niagara Observation Tower access, and even a helicopter ride.
Is transportation included in any of the tours?
The Niagara Falls (USA) Small Group Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds and Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Helicopter Tour include round-trip transportation from select Niagara Falls USA hotels.
Can I combine Cave of the Winds with other Niagara experiences?
Absolutely. Combo tours pair Cave of the Winds with attractions like the Maid of the Mist, Niagara Observation Tower, or even a helicopter ride.
Is Cave of the Winds suitable for families with children?
Yes, Cave of the Winds is family-friendly with safe walkways and accessible pathways. Children should be accompanied by an adult on the Hurricane Deck, where the mist and wind are strongest.
Are wheelchairs and strollers available for rent at Niagara Falls Cave of the Winds?
No. Wheelchairs and strollers are not available for rent at Niagara Falls Cave of the Winds.
How long is the Cave of the Winds tour?
Plan for at least 2-4 hours to enjoy most of the tour including elevator ride, walkways, and waterfall view.
Is the Cave of the Winds tour accessible from the Canadian side too?
The Cave of the Winds tour is conducted on the US side of Niagara Falls. But you can cross over from the Canadian side via Rainbow Bridge to access the tour.
Is Cave of the Winds worth it?
Yes. The Cave of the Winds offers an unforgettable, up-close experience with Niagara Falls and standing near the thundering water. It also offers a chance to explore the cave and learn its history.
What is the best time to visit the Cave of the Winds?
May to October is the best time to visit Cave of the Winds when the tour is fully operational, and the weather is pleasant.
Are there any things to keep in mind if I'm traveling with my kids?
Make sure your kids are supervised. Cave of the Winds is a popular attraction that can get extremely crowded during peak season. Also, follow all the safety instructions, including not leaning on the railings.
From happy customers
Jaycee
United StatesJul, 2026
+ 2 more
Our tour guide Paul was very knowledgeable and impressed us with his ability to walk backwards the whole time, even up stairs! We were gifted tickets to the Cave of the Winds by a generous couple in our tour group. Definitely worth the extra walking to do the additional tour!
Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride
Dona
United StatesJul, 2026
Our tour guide Bryan was fun and did a great job. He kept everyone organized and had a great sense of humor. We had a great time.
Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride
Salo
Costa RicaJul, 2026
Great experience, getting so close to the Falls both on the boat and behind. Linda is a very knowledgeable guide, giving us the added value of many stories/stats related to Niagara!
Niagara Falls Canada: Guided Tour with Hornblower Cruise & Journey Behind the Falls
Vivian
United StatesJul, 2026
The cruise was nice but I had a hard time understanding the tour guide unfortunately. I enjoyed the ferry a lot getting misted by the waterfall.
Niagara Falls Canada: Guided Tour with Hornblower Cruise & Journey Behind the Falls
Katarina
United StatesJul, 2026
Brian was simply fantastic! He made the tour interesting, well organized and enjoyable. Niagara Falls are spectacular on their own but Brian added so much value with his stories, facts and science. The tour was a great way to experience the wonder of Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds
Brigid
United StatesJul, 2026
Paul suggested going to the front of the boat on the lower deck for Maid of the Mist. It was amazing and so close to the Horseshoe Falls.
Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds
Catherine
United StatesJul, 2026
The information and stories told were fascinating. Our tour guide kept us interested while giving space to explore and ask questions. He did a fantastic job, we thoroughly enjoyed the e experience from start to finish.
Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Cave of the Winds
Cristina
ItalyJun, 2026
A fantastic tour—everything was perfectly organized. Our guide, Bernard, was very knowledgeable and helpful. Kudos to the driver as well. I highly recommend B&G Tours!
View original review in Italian
From Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Hornblower Cruise, Journey Behind the Falls & Skylon Tower