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Niagara Falls Tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Sightseeing Cruises
Niagara Falls (Canada) Tour with Hornblower Cruise & Journey Behind the Falls
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERWalk
START POINT
Niagara River Parkway
Your tour will begin along the Niagara River Parkway, with the exact meeting location provided in your ticket details.
1
Niagara Falls
1 attractions
Tickets included
Please note that the order in which attractions are visited may change depending on the tour operator’s plan.
Highlights
Niagara Gorge
Tickets included
Experience breathtaking panoramic views as you descend 19 stories into the Niagara Gorge. Your Hornblower Cruise will start from here.
2
Hornblower Cruise
Tickets included
Embark on a thrilling cruise that takes you to the heart of the majestic Niagara Falls. The Hornblower Cruise is replaced by other attractions in the winter months, depending on the tour selected.
3
Walking Tour
Tickets included
Experience the rich history and culture of the Niagara region on a guided walking tour. As you stroll scenic paths, your expert guide will share stories—from dramatic historical events to fascinating local legends—while you take in the beauty and powerful energy of the area.
4
Journey Behind the Falls
Venture through hidden rock tunnels with your guide and witness the awe-inspiring Falls from secret vantage points.
5
Skylon Tower
Tickets included (based on selection)
Soar 520 feet skyward in a glass elevator to the Skylon Tower observation deck offering panoramic views of all three waterfalls—Bridal Veil, Horseshoe, and American Falls—along with the Niagara River and the surrounding landscape.
6
END POINT
Niagara River Parkway
Take in two of Niagara Falls’ premier attractions and explore the city’s historic sites on a guided walking tour.
- Everything you get: Enjoy priority access to the tunnels on Journey Behind the Falls, then ride the Hornblower Cruise to feel the mist up close. Learn about local culture and history from your guide during a walking tour, and discover more of the area’s top attractions along the way.
- Why choose this: See Niagara Falls up-close as you feel the mist, hear the roar from the caves, & listen to exciting stories & legends that surround the region.
- Upgrades: Add to your experience with a visit to Skylon Tower, ride the glass elevator to soar over 500 ft., and get a birds-eye view of the Falls.
Take in two of Niagara Falls’ premier attractions and explore the city’s historic sites on a guided walking tour.
- Everything you get: Enjoy priority access to the tunnels on Journey Behind the Falls, then ride the Hornblower Cruise to feel the mist up close. Learn about local culture and history from your guide during a walking tour, and discover more of the area’s top attractions along the way.
- Why choose this: See Niagara Falls up-close as you feel the mist, hear the roar from the caves, & listen to exciting stories & legends that surround the region.
- Upgrades: Add to your experience with a visit to Skylon Tower, ride the glass elevator to soar over 500 ft., and get a birds-eye view of the Falls.
Inclusions
- Hornblower Cruise (not available in winter months - will be replaced by other options based on the tour selected)
- Access to Journey Behind the Falls
- Local English-speaking guide
- Expert guided walking tour
- Complimentary poncho
- Entry to Skylon Tower (as per option selected)
- Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes and bring a water-resistant backpack to keep your items dry near the Falls.
- Restrooms may not be readily available during the tour—use facilities ahead of time.
- No parking is available at the tour meeting point. There are 2 (out of 11 total) main paid parking lots located at Niagara Parkway. Both parking lots are open year-round.
- Please be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. We’re unable to accommodate late arrivals or issue refunds.
- Tip: Keep an eye on the skies—peregrine falcons often soar near the Falls. These cliff-dwelling birds are not just rare but also the fastest animals on earth.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERWalk
Timeline
Map
1
Maid of the Mist
Tickets included
Kick off the adventure with the Maid of the Mist boat and experience the breathtaking falls up close.
2
Niagara Gorge
1 activities
Tickets included
Ride the elevator up the tower for stunning panoramic views of all three falls—Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Highlights
Scenic Walk
Included in price
Enjoy a guided walk along the Niagara Gorge, learning fascinating stories of Niagara's history, including the daredevils who have braved the falls.
3
Cave of the Winds
Tickets included
End your tour with an unforgettable visit to the Cave of the Winds, where you'll descend to the Hurricane Deck and feel the power of the falls just feet away.
- Experience the ultimate Niagara tour in one day, visiting iconic attractions like Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and America’s oldest state park.
- Feel the thrill on Maid of the Mist, where you’ll get drenched by the mist of Horseshoe Falls and see Bridal Veil Falls up close from the Hurricane Deck, 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge at Cave of the Winds.
- Capture breathtaking panoramic views from the Observation Tower, where you can see all three falls—Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil—in one sweeping vista.
- Wander through scenic spots like Prospect Point and Crow’s Nest Walkway, and enjoy a tranquil stroll along the roaring Niagara Rapids with stunning river views.
- Experience the ultimate Niagara tour in one day, visiting iconic attractions like Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and America’s oldest state park.
- Feel the thrill on Maid of the Mist, where you’ll get drenched by the mist of Horseshoe Falls and see Bridal Veil Falls up close from the Hurricane Deck, 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge at Cave of the Winds.
- Capture breathtaking panoramic views from the Observation Tower, where you can see all three falls—Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil—in one sweeping vista.
- Wander through scenic spots like Prospect Point and Crow’s Nest Walkway, and enjoy a tranquil stroll along the roaring Niagara Rapids with stunning river views.
Inclusions
- Maid of the Mist boat tour
- Timed entry to Cave of the Winds
- Entry to Observation Tower
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Poncho
Exclusions
- Round-trip transfers
- Food & drinks
- Tip: Protect your camera from the mist with a waterproof case or cover. This will help you capture those unforgettable moments without worries!
- Please note that guests can get very wet by the end of the Cave of the Winds experience, so be prepared to embrace the splash and wear suitable clothing!
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Double the views – Cross borders and fly over Niagara Falls
You can cross the Rainbow Bridge to experience Niagara Falls from the US and Canada! The Canadian side offers panoramic views of all three falls, including the iconic Horseshoe Falls, while the US side brings you close to the water for an intimate experience. Don’t forget your documents, and consider a helicopter tour for stunning aerial views!
Sightseeing Cruises
Niagara Falls (Canada) All-Inclusive Tour with Hornblower Cruise, Journey Behind the Falls & Skylon Tower
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours 30 minutes - 4 hours
TOTAL DURATION6 hours 30 minutes
TOTAL DURATION6 hours
START POINT
Hotel pickup from Niagara Falls City (applicable if you choose the upgrade)
Your Niagara Falls tour begins with a complimentary downtown hotel pickup (available only with an upgraded ticket), taking you to your first stop, the Skylon Tower. For standard walking tours, the tour starts directly at Skylon Tower.
1
Skylon Tower
Your tour starts with your friendly, local guide greeting you outside the Skylon Tower. From there, you'll soar 520 feet up in a glass elevator to the observation deck, where you'll be rewarded with stunning, bird's-eye views of all three Niagara Falls (Bridal Veil, Horseshoe, and American Falls), the Niagara River, and the beautiful surrounding area.
2
Journey Behind the Falls
Tickets included
After returning to the ground, your next stop takes you 125 feet (about 40 meters) below to explore the cave-like tunnels behind the Falls at Journey Behind the Falls. This immersive experience lets you hear and feel the powerful rush of the water.
3
Hornblower Cruise (From April to November)
Tickets included
Board the Hornblower Cruise for a cruise around the Niagara gorge, getting as close as possible to the Falls. During winter, this is replaced with Niagara's Fury, Niagara SkyWheel, Greg Frewin Theatre, Butterfly Conservatory, or Niagara Power Station. Your tour will end here if you choose the standard walking tour. With an upgraded ticket, your tour will conclude with a hotel drop-off.
4
Driving tour of Niagara Falls
Tickets included (based on selection)
In the final part of your tour, enjoy a narrated driving experience through Niagara as your guide shares insights into the region’s rich history and unique geography. Along the way, you'll visit key landmarks including Dufferin Islands, the International Control Dam, the Old Scow, Whirlpool Rapids, and the Floral Clock.
5
START POINT
Niagara Falls, Ontario
Enjoy pick-up from your hotel in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Passes by
Dufferin Islands
Old Scow
International Control Dam
1
Journey Behind the Falls
Tickets included
At Journey Behind the Falls, you'll see the falls from behind, hear the roar, and feel the thunderous power up close. Walk through tunnel-like passageways carved into the rock and step onto two observation decks that offer unforgettable views and incredible photo moments.
2
Skylon Tower
Tickets included
At the Skylon Tower, soar 520 feet above the ground in a glass elevator to reach the observation deck. From this stunning vantage point, take in panoramic views of Niagara Falls, the cityscape, and even distant sights like Buffalo and Toronto on a clear day.
3
Scenic drive along Niagara Parkway
Enjoy a narrated scenic drive with historical insights, stunning natural beauty, and excellent photo opportunities.
Passes by
Whirlpool Rapids
Floral Clock
4
Hornblower Cruise
Tickets included
On the Hornblower Cruise, get up close to the Falls and feel the mist on your face. A rain poncho is provided. This iconic experience offers a thrilling, unforgettable perspective of Niagara Falls that you won’t want to miss.
5
3-Course Dinner at Table Rock House
Tickets included
Enjoy a 3-course dinner at Table Rock House Restaurant with a view of the Horseshoe Falls.
6
Illumination Tower
Tickets included
After dinner, head up to the Illumination Tower, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to control the lighting on the Falls in real-time! Before you leave, you’ll receive a special certificate that says, "I Lit Up Niagara Falls," serving as a memorable keepsake from this experience.
12
END POINT
Niagara Falls, Ontario
START POINT
Hotel transfers from Niagara Falls City
The exact pick-up time for your tour will be sent to you 1-3 days before the tour date.
1
Driving tour of the city
Tickets included
Once you get picked up from your hotel, enjoy a narrated driving tour of the city as you make your way to the first stop, Journey Behind the Falls.
2
Journey Behind the Falls
Tickets included
Enter cave-like tunnels behind the Falls after descending 125 ft. and get a view of the Falls from behind the curtain. Visit the two observation decks for the perfect photo-op.
3
Helicopter tour over Niagara Falls
Tickets included
Next, you’ll be taken to Niagara Falls Heliport, where you’ll start your 12-minute adventure and fly over the Falls on a helicopter tour. See the Falls, the Niagara Gorge, and the surrounding sights while you soar across the region.
4
Hornblower Cruise
Tickets included
Your adventure continues as you board the Hornblower Cruise for up-close views of the Falls. Feel the mist and hear the roar as you sail around the Niagara Gorge and get as close as possible to the Falls.
5
Skylon Tower
1 attractions
Tickets included
Enjoy lunch with Niagara Falls as your backdrop, and visit the observation deck for views of the three Falls, a perfect meal, and photo-op for your experience.
Things to do
1. Lunch at the Revolving Dining Room
Lunch
Included in price
Enjoy lunch at Skylon Tower's Revolving Dining Room after your day of adventure before making a trip up to the observation deck.
2. Skylon Tower Observation Deck
Tickets included
Finish your lunch and ride the elevator to Skylon Tower's observation deck and take in the views before heading into the city for your narrated driving tour.
6
Narrated driving tour around Niagara Falls
4 attractions
Tickets included
End your day with a narrated driving tour around Niagara Falls with your local expert guide providing stories & insights into the region, culture, and the sights you see.
Nearby things to do
7
END POINT
Hotel transfers to Niagara Falls City
End your tour with hotel drop-offs around Niagara Falls City.
Enjoy the best of Niagara Falls with a guided tour, cruise, behind-the-falls, and observation deck.
- Everything you get: Go on a 2.5-hour guided walking tour with a maximum of 16 guests. Enjoy panoramic views from the Skylon Tower, explore the tunnels at Journey Behind the Falls, feel the mist on the Voyage to the Falls boat cruise, and ride the inclined railway.
- Why choose this: This tour combines aerial views and up-close experiences with the falls, all within a small group setting. It's designed for those seeking a well-rounded and intimate adventure without the hassle of planning.
- Upgrades: Upgrade to include hotel transfers from Niagara Falls City, which also offers a driving tour of the area. Opt for a Helicopter Tour that includes hotel transfers and a driving tour. Or, upgrade your journey into a Day & Night Combo Tour featuring a cruise, Journey Behind the Falls, Skylon Tower, Illumination Tower, dinner, and transfers.
Enjoy the best of Niagara Falls with a guided tour, cruise, behind-the-falls, and observation deck.
- Everything you get: Go on a 2.5-hour guided walking tour with a maximum of 16 guests. Enjoy panoramic views from the Skylon Tower, explore the tunnels at Journey Behind the Falls, feel the mist on the Voyage to the Falls boat cruise, and ride the inclined railway.
- Why choose this: This tour combines aerial views and up-close experiences with the falls, all within a small group setting. It's designed for those seeking a well-rounded and intimate adventure without the hassle of planning.
- Upgrades: Upgrade to include hotel transfers from Niagara Falls City, which also offers a driving tour of the area. Opt for a Helicopter Tour that includes hotel transfers and a driving tour. Or, upgrade your journey into a Day & Night Combo Tour featuring a cruise, Journey Behind the Falls, Skylon Tower, Illumination Tower, dinner, and transfers.
Inclusions
- Niagara Falls small-group walking guided tour (limited to 16 people)
- Entry to Skylon Tower
- Entry to Journey Behind the Falls
- Hornblower Niagara Cruise (From Apr to Nov. Replaced with other attractions in the winter months)
- Hotel transfers from anywhere in Niagara Falls, Ontario (as per option selected)
- Driving tour Niagara Falls area (as per option selected)
- Illumination Tower access with changing the lights experience (as per option selected)
- 3-course dinner at Table Rock House Restaurant (as per option selected)
- Helicopter tour of Niagara Falls (as per option selected)
- Floral clock is a seasonal attraction and will not be viewable during winter months.
- The Hornblower Cruise is seasonal, operating April- November only, replaced with admission to Niagara's Fury and Niagara SkyWheel, Greg Frewin Theatre, Butterfly Conservatory, or Niagara Power Station during winter months.
- Tip: Don't miss the Old Scow, a grounded barge stuck in the upper rapids of Niagara Falls since 1918, it's a sight to behold.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Perfect for those short on time or photography enthusiasts, this 12-min scenic helicopter ride offers panoramic views of Niagara Falls and surrounding landmarks.
- See all three waterfalls – American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls – plus iconic sights like Rainbow Bridge and Skylon Tower from above.
- Learn about the falls with multilingual audio commentary in 12 languages, adding historical and local context to your aerial adventure.
- Depart from a heliport just 5 minutes from downtown Niagara Falls, Canada, with flexible flight schedules that work around ideal weather conditions.
- Spot Toronto’s skyline and Lake Erie on clear days, offering extra photo opportunities beyond the breathtaking views of Niagara Falls.
- Perfect for those short on time or photography enthusiasts, this 12-min scenic helicopter ride offers panoramic views of Niagara Falls and surrounding landmarks.
- See all three waterfalls – American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls – plus iconic sights like Rainbow Bridge and Skylon Tower from above.
- Learn about the falls with multilingual audio commentary in 12 languages, adding historical and local context to your aerial adventure.
- Depart from a heliport just 5 minutes from downtown Niagara Falls, Canada, with flexible flight schedules that work around ideal weather conditions.
- Spot Toronto’s skyline and Lake Erie on clear days, offering extra photo opportunities beyond the breathtaking views of Niagara Falls.
Inclusions
- Niagara Falls helicopter tour
- Audio commentary in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai and Russian
- Local taxes and fees
- Parking at the heliport
- Tip: Bring polarized sunglasses to enhance your view of the rainbows and reduce glare while flying above the falls.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this tour starts from New York City to experience one of the world’s natural wonders, Niagara Falls.
- Spend over 5 hours exploring iconic views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls with an English and Spanish-speaking guide.
- Wander through scenic pathways on Goat Island, and Luna Island, and head to all observatories around the Falls for opportunities for photography!
- Upgrade to enjoy a thrilling Maid of the Mist boat ride, getting up close to the powerful Horseshoe Falls for an unforgettable encounter with nature.
- Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this tour starts from New York City to experience one of the world’s natural wonders, Niagara Falls.
- Spend over 5 hours exploring iconic views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls with an English and Spanish-speaking guide.
- Wander through scenic pathways on Goat Island, and Luna Island, and head to all observatories around the Falls for opportunities for photography!
- Upgrade to enjoy a thrilling Maid of the Mist boat ride, getting up close to the powerful Horseshoe Falls for an unforgettable encounter with nature.
Inclusions
- 1-day trip to Niagara Falls from New York City
- Bilingual expert local guide in English and Spanish
- Round-trip bus transfer from New York City
- Tickets to the Maid of the Mist boat ride (seasonal, as per option selected))
- Visit to Goat Island, Luna Island, and all observatories surrounding
- Tip: Even with a poncho, you might still get wet on the Maid of the Mist ride, so carry an extra pair of clothes.
- Keep in mind that pets large bags, smoking and alcohol are not allowed on this tour.
- The Maid of the Mist boat ride operates seasonally from May to November.
- Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
Day Trips
From Toronto: Niagara Falls (Canada) and Niagara-on-the-Lake Day Tour with Hornblower Cruise & Lunch
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION8 hours - 9 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
Timeline
Map
1
Drive through the Niagara Peninsula
2 attractions
Board your bus and take a scenic drive into the heart of the Niagara Peninsula with your guide giving you local and cultural insights into the area as you pass through Lake Ontario and surrounding regions.
Nearby things to do
2
Hornblower Cruise or Journey Behind the Falls
Tickets included
Enjoy a thrilling boat cruise (May to Oct) or explore the cave-like tunnels behind the Falls (Nov to Apr) as you witness Niagara Falls up close on your tour.
3
Free time to explore the Niagara Falls region
Enjoy time exploring the sights around Niagara Falls, take a stroll across Clifton Hill, and soak in the views before stopping for lunch.
4
Lunch at Sheraton Fallsview's restaurant
Tickets included (based on selection)
Savor a delicious lunch with stunning views of the Falls. A full buffet-style lunch is offered in the summer months, and either a plated three-course-meal, or a brunch buffet is available during the winter months.
5
Maple Leaf Place
Tickets included
Participate in the interactive maple syrup tasting experience and sample a number of authentic Canadian maple syrups as you learn the story behind the staple.
6
Driving tour of the Niagara Parkway
7 attractions
Take a scenic drive along the beautiful Niagara Parkway and view the city's top attractions on your way to Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Nearby things to do
7
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Spend your free time exploring the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Visit the local award-winning vineyards, boutiques, and stop for a snack. Take in the charm of the quaint town before you depart for Toronto.
8
END POINT
55 York St
Explore Niagara Falls with a cruise, a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake, & a guided tour of the city’s sights.
- Everything you get: Drive to the heart of Niagara Peninsula with your guide providing insights into the region’s culture & history. Enjoy the Hornblower Cruise (May to Oct) or Journey Behind the Falls (Nov to Apr), & stop for maple syrup tasting. Continue with a driving tour of Niagara Parkway’s attractions on your way to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Spend time exploring the town before making your way back to Toronto.
- Why choose this: Explore the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, experience the Falls up close, & enjoy a guided tour of the region & its top attractions, all in a day’s trip.
- Upgrades: Add a delicious buffet-style lunch overlooking the Falls at the Sheraton Fallsview restaurant.
Explore Niagara Falls with a cruise, a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake, & a guided tour of the city’s sights.
- Everything you get: Drive to the heart of Niagara Peninsula with your guide providing insights into the region’s culture & history. Enjoy the Hornblower Cruise (May to Oct) or Journey Behind the Falls (Nov to Apr), & stop for maple syrup tasting. Continue with a driving tour of Niagara Parkway’s attractions on your way to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Spend time exploring the town before making your way back to Toronto.
- Why choose this: Explore the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, experience the Falls up close, & enjoy a guided tour of the region & its top attractions, all in a day’s trip.
- Upgrades: Add a delicious buffet-style lunch overlooking the Falls at the Sheraton Fallsview restaurant.
Inclusions
- Boat cruise (not available during winter months - will be replaced by Journey Behind the Falls from Nov to Apr)
- Guided tour of the Niagara Peninsula
- Access to Niagara-on-the-Lake
- Round-trip transfers from Toronto
- Guided driving tour around the Niagara Parkway
- Maple syrup tasting
- Expert local tour guide
- Buffet lunch (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Admission to ticketed attractions
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- The tour itinerary may be subject to change due to unavoidable circumstances. During winter months, the itinerary may reverse because of daylight savings.
- Infants and toddlers on the tour are required to occupy individual seats on all tour vehicles.
- Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring along a camera for this experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Must-see attractions at Niagara Falls
See all photos
Getting there
Getting to the US side
Address: Niagara Falls USA Official Visitor Center, 10 Rainbow Blvd, Niagara Falls, NY 14303, United States | Find on Maps
- By bus: FlixBus, Greyhound, and New York Trailways have buses running to Niagara Falls.
Nearest bus stop: Rainbow Boulevard 1st Street West (0.3 miles) - By train: There is an Amtrak Train that has a stop 6 minutes away from Niagara Falls.
Nearest station: Amtrak Niagara Falls Station (1.9 miles) - By car: Niagara Falls is conveniently accessible from nearby cities via Interstate 90. It is a 30-minute drive from the Buffalo Niagara International Airport via I-290 W and I-190 N.
Parking: Parking is available at Prospect Point, Goat Island, and Niagara Gorge.
Getting to the Canadian side
Address: 6650 Niagara Parkway. (River Rd) Niagara Falls, ON L2G 0L0 | Find on Maps
- By bus: GO Bus, MegaBus, FlixBus, and Niagara AirBus offer trips to Niagara Falls.
Nearest bus stop: Table Rock, Niagara Falls (400 meters) - By train: GO Train offers weekday service from Niagara Falls to Toronto, with one trip in the morning and a return trip in the evening. Alight at the Niagara Falls GO Train Station, from where you can take The Niagara Falls WEGO transit bus.
Nearest station: Niagara Falls GO Train Station (2.4 miles) - By car: Niagara Falls is about 1.5 hours away from Toronto Pearson International Airport. Make your way towards the Niagara River Parkway where you will spot the Table Rock Visitors Center.
Parking: Niagara Parks Power Station, the Falls Parking (Lot A), Floral Showhouse Parking (Lot B), and Rapidsview Parking (Lot C).
Getting from one side to the other
Three International bridges between the US and Canada are within 6 miles of Niagara Falls.
- Take the Rainbow Bridge for a gorgeous view of the falls, even during your commute. This bridge is the closest and most commonly used.
- The Whirlpool Bridge is only open to use for NEXUS card holders.
- You can also take the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge, north of the Falls but slightly further away than the other two bridges.
Plan your visit
Opening hours
Itinerary
Accessibility
Rules & safety information
Dining
Stay
Visitor tips
- Timings: Niagara Falls State Park is open 24/7 all year round. However, the park's attractions, including the visitor center, have their own schedules.
- Seasonal attractions: Attractions like the Maid of the Mist boat tour, Whirlpool Aero Car, and Hornblower Niagara Cruises are open between April and October.
- Year-round attractions: Cave of the Winds, Journey Behind the Falls, and Skylon Tower are popular attractions that are open year-round. But opening hours for each may vary based on the seasons and weather.
- Best time to visit: Head over to Niagara Falls between June and August for good weather and a great way to cool off during the higher temperatures that can fall between 70F and 80F. Expect large crowds and costlier accommodation prices because this is peak season.
US side (4-5 hours)
- Niagara Falls State Park (1.5 hours): Start your day with a panoramic view of the Falls from the Observation Tower and then take a stroll through the park, making your way close to the American and Bridal Veil Falls.
- Cave of the Winds (1 hour): Experience the power of Bridal Veil Falls by descending into the gorge and standing on the Hurricane Deck, where you can get soaked by the cascading water.
- Maid of the Mist (1 hour): Board the famous boat tour that takes you close to the base of Horseshoe Falls for a thrilling and wet experience.
- Niagara Gorge Trail (30 minutes): If time allows, take a short hike along the Niagara Gorge Trail to enjoy the scenic views and nature.
- Aquarium of Niagara (30 minutes): Visit this small but interesting aquarium featuring marine life exhibits, including sea lions and penguins.
Canadian side (4-5 hours)
- Journey Behind the Falls (1.5 hours): Start on the Canadian side by exploring the tunnels behind Horseshoe Falls and standing on the observation decks right beside the falling water.
- Hornblower Niagara Cruises (1 hour): Similar to the Maid of the Mist, this boat tour offers a close-up view of the falls from the Canadian perspective.
- Underground Power Station & Tunnel (1 hour): This attraction offers a unique historical perspective and the chance to walk through the 2,200-foot tunnel that leads to a stunning viewing platform at the river’s edge, providing a new and impressive view of the falls.
- Skylon Tower (1 hour): Ride to the top of the Skylon Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the falls and the surrounding area. Consider having a meal at the revolving restaurant.
- Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Conservatory (30 minutes): If time permits, enjoy a peaceful walk through the beautiful gardens and visit the Butterfly Conservatory, home to thousands of colorful butterflies.
- Wheelchair accessible: The observation decks of Niagara Falls on both sides are easily accessible by wheelchair with ramps and accessible routes.
- Wheelchair availability: On the US side, you can rent wheelchairs, scooters, strollers, and wagons at Sight See Rentals. In Canada, a few Niagara Park attractions have free wheelchair rentals, but they are on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Accessible attractions: In the US, the Niagara Scenic Trolley and Discover Niagara Shuttle are lift-equipped and wheelchair-friendly.
- Complimentary admission to support workers: Some attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada, offer complimentary admission to support workers accompanying people with disabilities.
- Service animals: You can bring your service dogs along to Niagara Falls.
- If you plan on taking your drone along to the fall, you must carry a valid drone pilot certificate and only fly marked and registered drones.
- While Canada has legalized marijuana, it is illegal to bring cannabis across the border in any form without a permit.
- If you are returning to Canada within 24 hours, you are permitted to bring back tax and duty-free goods valued at CAN$200. However, make sure you have all your purchase receipts with you.
- While traveling from the US to Canada, you must declare your weapons at the border if carrying firearms.
- Avoid leaning on the railings, fences, or barriers at the viewing decks and attractions.
- Don’t try to swim in unauthorized areas. It is extremely dangerous, as you may encounter strong currents.
USA
- Top of the Falls Restaurant: This restaurant within the Niagara Falls State Park on Goat Island overlooks Terrapin Point. It proudly serves a local New York State fare with Homestyle Chicken Tenders and Niagara Fish & Chips.
- Cave of the Winds Snack Bar: Get yourself some delicious hot dogs and fries at this counter-service outlet located in the Cave of the Winds building on Goat Island.
- Tastes of Niagara: Step into Tastes of Niagara at the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Welcome Center for a taste of local favorites like Costanzo’s Bakery, Perry’s Ice Cream and more!
Canada
- Table Rock House Restaurant: This falls-side restaurant sources many of its ingredients for its dishes like the peach lemonade mimosa or Manitoulin Island rainbow trout from local growers, producers, brewers, and distillers.
- Skylon Tower: At this famous landmark, you can choose between two fabulous dining options: the award-winning Revolving Dining Room Restaurant or the family-affordable Summit Suite Buffet Dining Room restaurant.
- The Keg Steakhouse + Bar: This restaurant on the 9th floor of the Embassy Suites is only 0.2 miles away from Niagara Falls. Their Keg steaks & Prime Ribs are popular among locals.
USA:
Budget accommodation:
Mid-range accommodation:
Luxury accommodation:
Canada:
Budget accommodation:
Mid-range accommodation:
Luxury accommodation:
- Despite the ponchos provided at the observation deck, you will definitely get drenched, so make sure to pack extra clothes and shoes.
- Time your visit for the night to see the majestic falls lit up colorfully in all their splendor and the fireworks display.
- Don’t just stick to the viewing decks. Make sure to get on one of the many boat rides available that take you right next to the waterfall. Maid of the Mist boat tour is the most popular of the lot.
- Get yourself a pass for the Niagara Falls Trolley to make your commute around the Niagara Falls State Park less tedious. You can get on and off at any of the stops all day.
The view that awaits you
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Niagara Falls throughout the year
Peak season
Since the weather is warm and pleasant, Niagara Falls experiences its highest tourist traffic in the summer months of June, July, and August. With temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F, the mist that splashes on the tourists makes for a much-needed cool respite from the heat. All attractions, including boat and walking tours, are fully operational but expect larger crowds, longer wait times, and higher hotel prices.
Mid-season
The transitional periods between peak and low seasons that occur during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) see a moderate crowd. In spring and fall, temperatures range from 45°F to 65°F. Not all the summer attractions will be available during this time, but most of them will still be functional. This is a good time for those who prefer milder weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak season.
Low season
In the winter months, between December and February, the temperatures can go as low as 20°F. The falls may partially freeze, creating stunning ice formations, and winter activities such as ice skating and winter festivals are popular. You will find significantly smaller crowds plus this is a more budget-friendly time to visit. But some attractions have reduced operating hours during this time, and a lot of activities will be closed for the season.
Frequently asked questions about Niagara Falls tours
Do I need a ticket to view the falls?
No, you do not need a ticket to view Niagara Falls itself. However, certain attractions and activities do require tickets like the Journey Behind the Falls tour, Maid of the Mist, and Hornblower Niagara Cruise.
Are there any discounts available?
Children between the ages of 2 years and 14 years can avail of tickets at a discounted rate. Infants under 1 year of age can enter for free.
Do tickets have a specific entry time or date?
Yes, all experiences require you to choose a specific time and date during the booking process.
Can tickets be refunded or rescheduled?
You can cancel your tickets up to 24 hours before your scheduled experience and get a full refund.
Do I need to print my tickets?
You do not need to print your tickets. Make your way to the experience directly and simply display your online tickets.
Do the Niagara Falls tours include transportation?
The Niagara Falls Small Group Guided Tour with Journey Behind the Falls & Skylon Tower, Niagara Falls Day & Night Small-Group Tour with Dinner, and day tours from Toronto and New York City include round-trip transfers from select points.
Can I purchase tickets that include both US and Canadian attractions?
What are the operating hours for attractions?
Only the Niagara Falls State Park is open 24 hours throughout the year, the rest of the attractions have their own schedules and timings.
Does the boat tour go close to the falls?
Yes, both the Maid of the Mist and Hornblower Niagara Cruise will take you right to the base of the falls.
Can I skip entry lines if I book my tickets online?
Most Niagara Falls experiences include priority access if you book online. To avoid crowds, we suggest going for the first boat ride of the day.
How early do I need to book my Niagara Falls tour?
If you're visiting during peak season (June to August), we suggest booking your tickets as early as possible since the experiences tend to get sold out. To be able to choose your preferred time and date, book your tickets at least 3-4 weeks before your trip.
