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Our journey with Sean Sun was incredible!

Sean was our tour guide for Washington DC and Niagara Falls, he was very nice, and the pure Indian veg restaurant he recommended was also spot on. Sean's Buffalo city tour was a blast; he had us laughing the whole time with his jokes and was super informative too. Plus, Sean Sun and Joel showed us the coolest spots in Buffalo! They all spoke English well, and our hotels were clean and comfy. Totally recommend.

Date of experience : July 15, 2024

Reply from TakeTours

We are so glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour and the service from the tour guide and the team! It's great to know you had a fantastic experience in Washington DC, and Niagara Falls. Thanks for the recommendation and for sharing your positive feedback!

Never trust them anywhere

Never trust them anywhere. Fraud people charging money for free attractions. Worst tour managers behaviour wise worst.

Date of experience : May 19, 2024

We are sorry to hear you had a bad experience. We set our prices based on the tour operator's guidelines and don’t charge for attractions that are free. If there are any attractions that require a surcharge, we always provide the option to choose whether or not to include them. If you have any concerns or need further clarification, please let us know, and we’ll do our best to address them.

The hotel is not very good

The hotel is not very good, and you can only expect to have a sleep over there. But actually we did not expect something fantastic since the price is very low. Luckliy, we went to a lot of places. It is a good recommendations for travelers not local and want to save times on driving. We paid for some “optional fee” to go to some places on tour. The attractions are free tho. But the tour guide provided us a lot of stories and history about those attractions and my family knew a lot after those paid activities. Seem worth. Just read the extra fee on the itinerary before the booking so you can expect how much you will need to pay.

Date of experience : July 06, 2024

We went to a Banff trip

We went to a Banff trip, and our experience are good. It was awesome. We stayed in a hotel in Banff town, and we loved there. We joined a east coast tour last year and we decided to go Canada this year. The Canada tour is less rush but also covered all places we expected to go. Our tour guide is experienced and good at telling us what to do and what to see. I think it is better to join a tour if you are a traveler because you don't know all these gem places. Oh, you must walk on the ice! It is very funnnn!

Date of experience : July 08, 2024

Overall is good

Overall is good, but expect to have a very full schedule every day. We started at 7 every morning and end up very late. I think the reason is we have to travel a lot during 3 days. We are very tired on the night in Niagara Falls but we saw the fireworks and light show, which is deserved. If you only have a short weekend and wants to travel a lot of places, I highly recommend this tour. Btw, our guide Mark is very good.

Date of experience : July 11, 2024

We joined a Niagara Falls tours. My guide Judy is very helpful and nice. Since we will need to travel to lots of places within 2 days, but Judy organized it very well. There was no breakfast in hotel, but Judy let us know earlier and helped us to prepare for that. Nice trip at this price.

Love my guide Zoe!

Love my guide Zoe! We joined a 6 day Grand Canyon tour. There are some old reviews and we wear very careful and a little bit scared actually... But Zoe just renew everything! She was very considerable and knew we are old, so she took a lot of care for us. She reminded us about the time difference and the departure time. Most of our groups are English speakers but there are another 4 people are Chinese. She also spoke Chinese to them to make them feel fair to be treated. We have to say, the optional fee is not hidden and forced to be paid. We wear very tired when we wear in Vegas so we do not want to take the night tour. But she said it is alright and no problem, all optional. We do not feel any pressure. She also told me some good place we can go by ourselves even we can't go them. I will definitely recommend everyone about this tour.

Date of experience : July 13, 2024

I used this company to arrange a grand canyon and antelope canyon tour last month and the experience was good. We stayed in a very good hotel in Las Vegas. It was a bit hot in Antelope Canyon but the view is amazing!!!! Our tour guide Vincent is very nice. Lots of people in Antelope Canyon but we did not wait too long. I was a bit worried because the reviews is not very good, but I still booked it because the price is within my budget. I cant believe I stayed in such a good hotel.

Date of experience : June 25, 2024

WELL WHAT DO U PEOPLE EXPECT FROM THE…

WELL WHAT DO U PEOPLE EXPECT FROM THE CHEAPEST TOUR COMPANY IN NORTH AMERICA Silly!! U GET WHAT U PAY FOR!! RIGHT! Lol. Their NOT running a FREE CHARITY! Right. :) Lol Wake up! Don’t book with them bc they primarily cater to their own Chinese patrons nor do they care much about what they offer? Basically think of it like your paying only for their FUEL to get to one place to another without anything else included; also be weary of pricey,TOUR COMPANIES bc sometimes I read it’s better to organize it on your own??? Pay more and do your research to find a decent sincere Tour. Okay. Thx

We aim to offer affordable tours with high-quality service from experienced tour operators. We understand that every traveler has distinct expectations, and we apologize if we didn't meet yours on this occasion. We are dedicated to improving our offerings to better meet the needs of all our customers. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly with any specific concerns you may have had during your tour.

New York/Philly/DC and Niagara

booked the 4 d/3n new york , philly ,dc , niagara and boston trip. they cancelled it and booked us on the 3d/2n trip. once the trip started , they charged us 75$ per person for the dc capitol and waahington memorials tour whixh turned out to be free. at niagara , they charged us 35$ per person for night waterfall which is again free . this is SCAM !!! never book!!!

Date of experience : May 06, 2024

2 days to Washington DC become a nightmare.

2 days to Washington DC become nightmare. This company has a really shady business: poor service, chip hotels (dirty towels, inability to lock front doors, poor drainage in toilets and sinks. etc.) and most important hiding fees for every steps of your vacation. Plus broken English with poor knowledge of subject provided by Chinese tour guide. That was made our 2 days vacation absolutely horrible. We felt cheated in every aspect of this vacation.

Date of experience : April 22, 2019

I am writing to express my strong…

I am writing to express my strong dissatisfaction with the behavior of our tour guide during the trip organized by TakeTours.com. The guide's conduct has been extremely rude and unprofessional. Firstly, the tour guide has been forcing us to leave the bus if we choose not to participate in optional activities, even before reaching our destinations. Today, after receiving confirmation from Mark, our tour guide, to keep our baggage in the bus compartment, we were abruptly told at 11:00 PM EST to remove our baggage from the bus. Furthermore, the tour guide refused to provide us with our hotel keys. As senior citizens on a tourist visa, we did not expect such poor service from a reputed tour company. This experience has been distressing and unacceptable. I request immediate attention to this matter and expect appropriate actions to be taken against the tour guide to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

Date of experience : May 20, 2024

Changed tours on us with no notification.

Party of 4 signed up for Los Angeles City & Hollywood Star Homes. We were notified we were switched to the LA City and Muscle Beach tour when we were on the bus (that would not be going past stars’ homes.) Shawn, the driver from VIP Tours, did his best to accommodate both tours but no reason nor compensation was given for the change of tours with no notification.

Date of experience : September 20, 2022

Say NO to Taketours

Horrible terrible racist company, complete rip off, horrible customer care., Doesn't deserve even 1* The tour driver JACK Las Vegas to Antelope (13th Dec 2018)was completely racist and womanizer in the coach, Company promised for a luxury bus for the tour, but a mini van arrived for the trip. The driver JACK was speaking to only Chinese girls in there language, Horrible seating in the mini van. We requested for veggie meal but these guys serves ham During booking even tough collected entry fees and mentioned $9 mandatory, driver JACK demanded for $ 14 Abused Indians Driver JACK forced us to leave the tour in middle

Date of experience : December 14, 2018

What others have said.

June 2023, booked an overnight tour for my retired parents from NYC to DC. These guides and tour operators are bad. Charging more and demanding cash to enter the bus for pickup came off as very shady practices when terms clearly stated a lesser amount and other payment options. There has to be a dozen other options and I'm quite confident others are a better choice. I had a post tour conversation with what I thought was a competent customer service manager to resolve overpayment issues and just genuine feedback and consideration. Nope. No follow through. The negative sentiment of other reviewers is real.

Date of experience : July 04, 2023

Everything is bad about this tour…

Everything is bad about this tour operator. The hotel provided was of low standards. They trick you into paying more on the bus on the pretext of showing something which might be free. They tell you to hire other local guides, which will be there members only. They abused a family and left them enroute. The family had to pay another $150 for his return trip. The chinese operating this tour are rude and running a scam.

Date of experience : May 19, 2023

Rocky mountain tour in May 2023 by taketours.com

Rocky mountain tour in May 2023: Taketours did not fulfil its commitment for airport pick up. Most of the places indicated in itinerary were passed by.It was 70% travel/hotel stay. Many photo shoot stops (15-20 mimnutes) on the way were skipped despite a request. Guide and driver were in a hurry to complete the day as early as possible(6PM). Food taste of non-Chinese tourists was not taken care of. Majority tourists were Chinese who will take side of the Chinese guide and will show adverse body language to other tourists.

Date of experience : May 20, 2023

Taketours a good company you Can trust!

Thank you taketours! To be honest I’m a human being not a random robot comment! I just received my refund $4,000++ It took about 18 days refund processing back to my debit card account. I’m so happy and relieved it arrived. I would suggest to contact directly operator ms. Suzy Suzy@ gotobus.com; or email support@ gotobus.com. She Can help you with refund problems, she is understanding and a good Communicator. She explains in a calmly manner. Not like other chat operator Need more training. They considered a refund with processing fee deduction due to visa refusal. God is good. Taketours a good company you Can trust!

Date of experience : February 03, 2018

East Coast tour 4 days by Taketours

East Coast tour 4 days by Taketours. Worst experience. Felt more like a school trip. Tour guide had bad time management. Do not recommend for families who need to relax and see attractions properly without hurry. Charged fees for even the free attractions. Not worth the money.

Date of experience : June 27, 2023

All fine except that we were not…

All fine except that we were not informed that entire tour group will be of Chinese language origin. Tour guides were talking mostly Chinese and did not have good English dialect skills. Bus driver was not able to speak English at all. Was disappointed that wifi was not working through most parts of the journey so googling about the place for information also became inaccessible. Felt as if I were in China more than USA.

Date of experience : August 12, 2018

Protect Your Trip »

11 best niagara falls tours: boat rides & more.

Experience the power and beauty of Niagara Falls on a guided tour.

11 Best Niagara Falls Tours

Courtesy of Niagara Falls Tourism

Discover the best ways to tour Niagara Falls – whether by boat, helicopter, bus or even zip line – and note that you'll need a passport if you're planning to visit any of the Niagara Falls attractions in Canada (whether you're on a tour or not).

• Helicopter Tours
• Combination Tours
• Adventure Tours

Best Niagara Falls Boat Tours

Just two companies offer boat tours to Niagara Falls: Maid of the Mist, which is based on the U.S. side, and Niagara City Cruises (formerly Hornblower Cruises) in Canada. Some combination Niagara Falls tours (see Combination Tours below) include a boat ride and access to other attractions.

Niagara City Cruises – Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour (Canada)

Price: Adults from CA$33.55 (about $25); kids from CA$23.50 (approximately $17) Duration: 20 minutes

This 20-minute tour offers a close-up view of the American, Bridal Veil and Horseshoe falls, as well as the breathtaking Niagara Gorge. Offered by Niagara City Cruises (formerly Hornblower Cruises), the tour is accompanied by an audio commentary and includes complimentary ponchos, which tourgoers say you'll absolutely need to wear. Travelers call this an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Tours depart every 15 to 30 minutes throughout the day with evening options mid-May through the first week of October. The ride is free (though not recommended) for children 2 and younger.

Check prices & availability on:

Maid of the Mist (U.S.)

Price: Adults from $28.25; kids from $17.75 Duration: 20 minutes

The ultimate Niagara Falls boat tour, the Maid of the Mist has been in operation since 1846. Now an all-electric fleet of double-decker boats, the Maid of the Mist brings riders face-to-face with the falls on a 20-minute ride. Tourgoers describe the ride as breathtaking and beautiful, saying it's like nothing they've experienced before. Note that you'll get wet – that's how close you'll get to the falls – even if you wear the ponchos that are supplied to all visitors.

Tours operate from mid-April through early November from 9 or 10 a.m. to between 4 and 8 p.m. daily, depending on the time of year. Children 5 and younger ride for free.

Niagara Falls Helicopter Tours

Niagara Helicopters – Classic Tour (Canada)

Price: Adults from CA$185 (about $135); kids from CA$113 (about $82) Duration: 12 minutes

For a chance to witness the grandeur of Niagara Falls from above, don't miss this excursion with Niagara Helicopters. The 12-minute flight takes you along the Niagara River to the falls, over Rainbow Bridge and the Niagara Whirlpool, with a prerecorded audio commentary accompanying your flight. You may even be able to see Toronto and Lake Erie on a clear day.

Flights depart daily from 9 a.m. to 5 or 7 p.m., depending on the season. Travelers say they appreciate the crew's attention to safety, and that the views are well worth the cost. Niagara Helicopters also offers wine tours and charter flights.

National Helicopters – Niagara Grand Tour (Canada)

Price: From $280 Duration: 20 minutes

The Niagara Grand Tour takes travelers on a 20-minute helicopter ride over Niagara Falls and the surrounding region to discover sights like Niagara-on-the-Lake (known for its wineries) the whirlpool rapids and more. The tour also makes a second pass over the falls for maximum views and spectacular photo-ops for passengers on both sides of the helicopter.

Tourgoers praise this helicopter tour of Niagara Falls, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Reviewers point out that the tour departs from the Niagara District Airport, which is about 11 miles north of the main tourist attractions on the Ontario side. However, passengers say the extra time in the air is worth the drive.

Note that ticket prices can vary depending on the number of people in your group. Also, children must be 2 years old to join the tour, which runs daily every half-hour from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

National Helicopters also offers winery tours, sunset flights and wedding packages.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Best Niagara Falls Combination Tours

Gray Line – Niagara Falls Evening Illumination Tour (Canada)

Price: Adults from $143.95; kids from $116.55 Duration: 4 hours

For a different perspective of the falls, consider this evening tour from Gray Line. The tour, which lasts about 4.5 hours, includes stops at Journey Behind the Falls ; the Table Rock Centre, a popular vantage point; the Floral Clock, which features thousands of colorful flowers; and the Niagara Whirlpool. Plus, you'll have the chance to observe the falls from atop the 775-foot Skylon Tower after the sun sets and the evening light show begins. Reviewers rave about the guides, who they say provide informative and entertaining commentary throughout the tour.

The tour runs May through October, departing at 5:30 p.m. Kids 4 and younger can join for free.

Over the Falls Tours – Niagara Falls Canadian and American Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride

Price: Adults from $209.95; kids from $154.95 Duration: 6 to 7 hours

This Niagara Falls tour covers it all: a boat ride on Maid of the Mist (New York), a visit to the Cave of the Winds (New York), a bird's-eye view atop Skylon Tower (Ontario), prime viewing areas for photos and more. Plus, all attraction fees and round-trip hotel transportation is included in the tour rate. Tour guides receive rave reviews for their breadth of knowledge and sense of humor.

Children 4 and younger can join for free. Tours are available April through November, and options also include tours of just the American or Canadian side of Niagara Falls. Note that passports are required.

Tripshepherd – Day and Night Tour of Niagara Falls (Canada)

Price: Adults from $279; kids from $189 Duration: 6.5 hours

An ideal choice if you only have one day to see the falls, this 6.5-hour tour allows you to observe this natural wonder from a variety of perspectives. You'll view the falls from the observation deck of the Skylon Tower, enjoy a behind-the-scenes peek with Journey Behind the Falls, and take a boat ride to the falls with Niagara City Cruises. In the summer, you'll also enjoy nightly fireworks. Tours depart daily at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets include a three-course dinner at Table Rock House Restaurant and round-trip transportation from Ontario hotels. Recent tourgoers say they can't recommend this experience enough, noting that the dinner is exceptionally tasty.

Tripshepherd (formerly See Sight Tours) also offers a similar tour on the U.S. side , as well as highly rated helicopter tours of Niagara Falls .

Niagara Tour Company – All-Inclusive Niagara Falls American Tour (U.S.)

Price: Adults from $129.99; kids from $99.99 Duration: 4 to 5 hours

This all-inclusive tour features a boat ride on Maid of the Mist, a visit to the Cave of the Winds and Niagara State Park, a stop at the Niagara Observation Tower and other attractions on the U.S. side of Niagara Falls. Bottled water and coupons for discounts at local restaurants and attractions are also included in rates. Recent reviewers highly recommend this tour, noting that the energetic tour guides are full of great stories.

Tours depart four times daily from mid-April through early November. Round-trip hotel transportation is available.

Niagara Falls Adventure Tours

WildPlay Niagara Falls – Zipline to the Falls (Canada)

Price: From $69.99 Duration: 60 to 90 minutes

Zip line toward the falls on this adrenaline-inducing tour offered by WildPlay. Four zip lines take riders 2,200 feet along the edge of the Niagara Gorge, toward the falls, at speeds of up to 40 mph. Following the tour, you'll have the option to purchase photos and video footage of your adventure. Zip line tours are considered low in difficulty. Visitors must be at least 7 years old and weigh less than 275 pounds to safely participate in this Niagara Falls tour.

General admission is $69.99, though recent travelers strongly recommend upgrading to the skip-the-line ticket ($99.99) to avoid long wait times. The actual ride is pretty quick, but standard wait times can exceed an hour. A Beat-the-Heat Nighttime Experience – when the falls are illuminated – is also offered. Tours are available year-round from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday to Sunday.

Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours – Wet Jet Boat Tour (U.S. and Canada)

Price: Adults from CA$75.95 (about $55) or $65.95; kids from CA$44.95 (about $33) or $39.95, depending on departure location Duration: 45 minutes

If you're looking for a thrilling ride on Class V whitewater rapids, travelers say you can't go wrong with Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours. You'll venture along the Niagara River to the Niagara Gorge and then the Niagara Whirlpool in a motorized Wet Jet at speeds up to 55 mph. Keep in mind: This tour does not go to Niagara Falls. You will get wet, so plan to bring a change of clothing and shoes, and also dress accordingly in cold weather.

Tickets for the 45-minute tour vary by departure location: Queenston, Ontario, or Lewiston, New York. Note that kids must be at least 44 inches tall to take this tour. If you prefer not to get wet, take the Freedom Jet Dry Tour . All tours are offered May through October.

Whirlpool Aero Car (Canada)

Price: Adults from $19; kids from $12.50 Duration: 10 minutes

Take in breathtaking views of the surging Niagara Whirlpool (located at the end of the famous falls) from an antique cable car that dates back to 1916 (and has been upgraded several times since). The Whirlpool Aero Car is safely suspended by six cables as it crosses the grand Niagara Gorge. The ride, which accommodates up to 35 passengers at a time, lasts about 10 minutes. Recent riders – including those with a fear of heights – agree the long lines are worth the wait for the incredible scenery.

The Whirlpool Aero Car operates between early April and late October. Hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

The boat tours offered by Maid of the Mist (U.S.) and Niagara City Cruises (Canada) last about 20 minutes.

Yes, you can easily explore Niagara Falls on your own. However, many travelers opt for a tour to enjoy a unique vantage point and/or to visit several attractions at one time.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross has been to Niagara Falls several times, once as a kid and a couple times as an adult. She recommends any tour where you can get up close to feel the thundering rush of the rapids – there's nothing quite like it.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Niagara Falls
• The Best Places to Visit in Canada
• The Best Places to Visit in New York State
• The Best Weekend Getaways from New York City

The Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Canada , New York Vacations , US Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

The 21 Best Niagara Falls Tours

May 9, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

As one of the most iconic natural attractions in Canada, there are so many amazing Niagara Falls tours to choose from. Since most people come here to see one of the largest waterfalls in the world, many of the Niagara Falls tours centre around that. However, Niagara Falls is more than just Horseshoe Falls– it’s a lively destination with a vibrant tourism industry, filled with great food, exciting nightlife, and plenty of activities for thrill-seekers and nature-lovers alike.

So whether you’re looking for a Niagara Falls helicopter tour, a Niagara Falls boat tour, a Niagara Falls wine tour, or one of the many other tours in the area, we’ve got you covered in this guide to the best Niagara Falls tours in Ontario , Canada!

Niagara Falls Tours Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, we get a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and they help keep these travel guides free. It’s a win-win! For more information, visit our  privacy policy.

Don’t have time to read the entire Niagara Falls Tours article? These are our four favourite tours overall:

• Best Comprehensive Tour of Niagara Falls : There’s a reason this tour has more than 300 5-star reviews. It combined many of the top Niagara Falls attractions, including a helicopter tour, a boat cruise, lunch at the Skylon Tower, and more!
• Best Helicopter Tour of Niagara Falls : It’s not too often that you’ll find yourself near one of the world’s most famous waterfalls, so why not go all out and opt for a 20-minute grand helicopter tour?
• Best Comprehensive Tour of Niagara Falls with No Helicopter : If you’re looking to experience many of the top attractions in Niagara Falls without a helicopter tour, including Canada and the USA, this is it.
• Best Day Trip Tour from Niagara Falls : When you’ve had enough of the falls, take this tour to Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of the most famous wine regions in Canada.

1. Niagara Falls Canada Tour + Helicopter Ride and Skylon Tower Lunch

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (342+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

We’ve been to Niagara Falls so many times and have seen the waterfalls from many different angles and one of our favourite things to do is take a helicopter ride over the falls. It gives you such a different perspective of this truly amazing natural wonder. However, they’re also incredible from the ground, so that’s why we recommend this thrilling small-group sightseeing tour .

This is the best tour we could find that combines so much of what we love about Niagara Falls. You get to fly around and over the mighty falls on a helicopter ride, travel to the edge of the Horseshoe Falls and back on the iconic Hornblower Cruise, feel the power of the water on the “Journey Behind the Falls” walk, and enjoy lunch in the Revolving Dining Room at Skylon Tower. Does it get any better?

Danny was our guide from Sightseeing Tours and he did an exceptional service to our group. We kept us on time, took pictures, was friendly and took us to all the spots. The helicopter tour is fantastic and the food at the Skylon was superb. I had the Salmon and it was good. I recommend this tour 100% -Guadalupe ( see more reviews )

This 5-6 hour Niagara Falls tour includes:

• Round-trip transport from the downtown Niagara Falls area
• 12-minute helicopter ride
• Hornblower Boat Cruise (seasonal)
• Journey Behind The Falls
• Lunch at Skylons Summit Suite Buffet
• Professional guide

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

2. Niagara Falls in 1 Day: Tour of American and Canadian Sides

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (3,574+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Do you want to see the American side of Niagara Falls or the Canadian side of Niagara Falls? If you answered both, this is the tour for you!

Get the full experience from both sides of the border on this deluxe tour of everything Niagara Falls has to offer . Visit all the must-see Niagara Falls attractions, including the thrilling Maid of the Mist boat cruise, the exciting Cave of the Winds walk, take a trip to the top of the Skylon Tower, and much more. All attraction and admission fees, plus hotel transfers and road tolls are included. Food and beverages are at your own expense.

I highly recommend this tour. Our tour guide, Dayna, was funny and informative. She kept the tour going with great stories. We had hotel pickup and drop off which was very easy and convenient. Dayna, knew all the employees at each stop so we got the star treatment. Wait times were minimal and parking was great. We enjoyed all the sights. Dayna also gave us recommendations of shopping, restaurants and directions from our hotel to walk and see the falls at night. -Michelle ( see more reviews )

Marvel at Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls from both the American side and the Canadian side on this comprehensive tour of Niagara Falls.

This 7-hour Niagara Falls tour includes:

• 6-7 hour guided tour of Niagara Falls
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from the Niagara Falls area (not from Toronto or Buffalo)
• Maid of the Mist Boat Ride (late April- November, can vary due to weather)
• Journey Behind the Falls (replaces Maid of the Mist when not operating)
• Cave of the Winds with Hurricane Deck (mid-May- early November)
• Cave Gorge Trip & World Changed Here Pavilion (replaces Cave of the Winds when not operating)
• All road fees and bridge tolls

3. Best of Niagara Falls Canada Small Group w/Boat & Behind Falls

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (1,404+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

This is another one of the most popular comprehensive Niagara Falls tours. This 5-hour, small-group tour is led by a local guide who will take you to some of the area’s top attractions. Check out the view from the top of the Skylon Tower, a Hornblower cruise, or a thrilling Journey “Behind the Falls”. These are some of the top attractions in the area. Different options take place depending on the season. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Martina was a great tour guide! She included lots of city details which was awesome. She delivered us right on time and walked us to the entrance to all the attractions and we were well informed on what to do. Behind the falls and the boat ride are great. -Eric ( see more reviews )

This 4-5 hours comprehensive tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in the downtown Niagara Falls area
• Transport by minivan
• Admission to: Journey Behind the Falls and Skylon Tower Hornblower Cruise (seasonal, operating April-November only) Admission to Niagara’s Fury and Butterfly Conservatory from December – April

4. Niagara Falls Canada Day + Night Small Group Tour w/Falls Dinner

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (100+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Experience beautiful Niagara Falls by day and night on this all-inclusive full-day tour . Ascend the Skylon Tower, feel the falls’ mist aboard a Hornblower cruise, and visit Journey Behind the Falls. This is where most tours end. But not this one. After the sun sets, settle in for a gourmet 3-course meal at a restaurant offering dramatic views of Horseshoe Falls lit up by bright lights before heading to the tower where the spotlights are mounted to change the colour! Hotel transport is included on this small-group tour that is limited to seven people.

The entire day/night was amazing. The boat ride up to the falls was so much fun. Changing the lights on the falls was pretty cool. Dinner at Rock Table was very nice with a spectacular view of the falls. Watching the fireworks at the top of Skylon Tower was great. Our tour guide Khalid was super. He was so accommodating, informative, and all around a great host. We highly recommend this tour. -Teresa ( see more reviews )

This full-day Niagara Falls tour includes:

• Free hotel pickup and drop-off in the downtown Niagara Falls area
• Professional driver/guide
• “I Lit Up Niagara Falls” Certificate
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• All taxes and fees

5. Niagara Falls Canadian Side Tour and Maid of the Mist Boat Ride Option

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (2,233+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Get to know the best of Niagara Falls on this 6-hour tour . Visit some of the area’s top attractions, such as the Skylon Tower, and cross the border into the United States for an iconic cruise on the Maid of the Mist. During the off-season when Maid of the Mist is not running, you’ll get to embark on the thrilling Journey Behind the Falls excursion. This is a great way to see some of the top highlights while stepping foot in two countries! Hotel pickup and drop-off in Niagara Falls (Ontario and New York) are included.

Randy made this an awesome, memorable experience! A must do if you’re traveling in this area. The views are unbelievable we saw so much more than we would have on our own -Deborah ( see more reviews )

If you’re looking for a quick tour that combines two of the top highlights in Niagara Falls, this is a popular option. Visits also include Canadian Horseshoe Falls, Table Rock House, and Queen Victoria Park.

This 6-hour tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• Maid of the Mist Boat Ride* (early May- late October)
• Return trip up Skylon Tower
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

6. Niagara Falls Grand Helicopter Adventure

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (424+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  20 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re interested in a helicopter tour, few places compare to beautiful Niagara Falls. This is your chance to experience Niagara Falls like never before, from an entirely new perspective, on this scenic 20-minute helicopter journey . Enjoy the incredible sight of the American, Bridal Veil, and Canadian Horseshoe Falls from high above, along with a mesmerizing view of the many landmarks and renowned wine country of the Niagara region. The view is unforgettable, but bring a camera to capture the moment—and a friend—because a minimum of two people is required.

This was a brilliant experience which was worthwhile and thoroughly enjoyable. Ryan was the helicopter pilot, he was extremely helpful, very friendly and put us all at ease. The helicopter ride was smooth and gave a fantastic view of Niagara Falls and surrounding area. This was a memorable trip which my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed – thank you Ryan you were fantastic. -David ( see more reviews )

Soar over Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake aboard a state-of-the-art helicopter while soaking up panoramic views of the falls, historic landmarks, and wine country.

This 20-minute Helicopter tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• Full view of the entire Niagara Region

7. Niagara Falls CANADA Helicopter Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (530+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As you can probably tell in this guide to the best Niagara Falls tours, we’ve featured many helicopter tours. This is because it was one of the highlights of our trip to Niagara Falls back in 2017. All of them offer spectacular views, so it really comes down to budget and the amount of time you want in the air. This particular helicopter tour of Niagara Falls is only 10-12 minutes, giving you more than enough time to see the waterfalls from the sky for the least amount of money.

Enjoy the incredible sight of the American, Bridal Veil, and Canadian Horseshoe Falls from high above, along with a spectacular view of the many landmarks along the way, like the Niagara River and Whirlpool Rapids. Each passenger receives an individual headset that provides interesting and educational commentary about the falls during the flight.

Experience of a lifetime. Perfect service, perfect pilot and everything else was just perfect. We had to wait a few hours due to weather but as soon aswe got the green light, we were on the first flight. We loved every moment of it -Vinil ( see more reviews )

This 10-12 minute Helicopter tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• 10 minutes in flight 12 minutes including loading and photos (Approx).
• Taped commentary via speakers in Airbus H130 aircraft

8. Experience Niagara Falls in Three Hours

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (107+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Short on time but want to make the best of it? When it comes to Niagara Falls tours, this is one of the best for truly making the most out of your time with admission tickets to the Hornblower boat cruise, Whirlpool Observation Deck, tunnel system behind the waterfalls, and Souvenir City included. In addition to round-trip transport from select hotels, your guide ensures a stress-free tour and provides commentary at stops along the way.

Our Guide was John from magnificent tours, he was friendly and upbeat and had loads of interesting facts and stories. He was great with the kids who loved the tour. Great to skip some queues for attractions and 3 hours was just right for us. -Sheena ( see more reviews )

This 3-hour Niagara Falls tour includes:

• Transport by private coach

9. The Best All-Inclusive Walking Tour of Niagara Falls

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (25+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Experience the great wonder of the world like never before with the top must-do Niagara Falls attractions! You’ll get as close as possible to this powerful natural icon on this all-inclusive walking tour led by an experienced and friendly tour guide. You’ll start the tour by meeting in the morning at the base of the Skylon Tower, making sure that you’re one of the first in line at every attraction.

If you’re looking for a guided tour that combines many of the top attractions in addition to great value, this 3-hour tour of Niagara Falls is for you. You’ll get spectacular views of all three falls (Canadian/Horseshoe, American and Bridal), ride up the Skylon Tower for an aerial view of Niagara Falls, jump on a hornblower cruise and get super close to Horseshoe Falls, learn fascinating stories about the history of Niagara Falls, feel the thunderous vibrations of Niagara Falls from behind them, and see and learn about over 20 other landmarks along the way.

We booked this tour after having done similar excursions in Europe. This was by far the best tour we have ever been on!! The tour guide was professional, punctual and very knowledgeable of the area. The stops and attractions were well planned and organized. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone who wants a first class experience in discovering Niagara Falls! -Dino ( see more reviews )

This 4-hour walking tour of Niagara Falls includes:

• All Fees and Taxes
• Priority access
• Expertly guided tour of Niagara Falls by a local and licensed guide
• Niagara Falls coupon pack with over $150 worth of savings
• Skylon Tower
• Hornblower Boat Tour

10. Niagara Falls CANADA, Open-Top (Wet) Jet Boat Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (417+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  45 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Now for something totally different. Niagara Falls produces a lot of water, so why not enjoy a wet and wild adventure on the Niagara River on this Niagara Falls open-top jet-boat ride ? Jump aboard your powerful speedboat and strap in for a thrilling ride. Zoom across the rolling waves as your river tour guide shares entertaining commentary, and get soaked as you enjoy the ultimate Niagara experience.

The people were so nice and friendly. We felt very safe and well taken care of. They do an excellent job making sure you hit all the waves and get super wet. The most fun I’ve had in a long time! 🙂 10/10 recommend! -Shannon ( see more reviews )

Admire the beautiful scenery and swirling waters of the Niagara River on this thrilling open-top jet-boat ride. Ponchos are provided but you will still need a change of clothes.

This 45-minute adrenaline-packed tour of the Niagara River includes:

• 45-minute jet-boat ride
• Safety equipment
• Pre-trip briefing and safety orientation
• Live commentary on board
• Local taxes
• 6% fuel surcharge

11. Niagara CANADA, Domed (Dry) Jet Boat Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars (101+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  45 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If the thrill of a jet boat ride sounds amazing but you don’t want to get wet, this is the tour for you! Experience the swirling currents of the mighty Niagara River without getting wet on this Niagara jet-boat adventure . Hop aboard our domed jetboats and ride the choppy river with your guide. Please note that you do not see Niagara Falls on these tours. The only boat that goes to the falls is the Hornblower Cruise and Maid of the Mist.

Going through rapid crazy waves!!! Super fun experience! Fall foliage was gorgeous! Staff was very nice and made the experience even more fun!!! -Karen ( see more reviews )

Discover a different side of Niagara Falls on this 45-minute jetboat tour that includes:

• 45-minute jet boat ride
• Life-jacket

12. Clifton Hill Fun Pass: Top 6 Attractions

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (140+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Similar to places like Las Vegas, Niagara Falls has lots of tourist attractions, many of which can be found on Clifton Hill. If you’d like to enjoy attractions like the Niagara SkyWheel (Canada’s largest observation wheel), Wizards Golf or Dinosaur Adventure Golf, and the Movieland Wax Museum of Stars, the Clifton Hill Fun Pass is a great pass to buy .

Great deal for these attractions. We enjoyed the wax museum & Zombie ride the most. We loved doing the ferris wheel at night to see the falls lit up. Definitely recommend buying off Viator. -Roseanne ( see more reviews )

The Clifton Hill Fun Pass includes:

• 6 Top Attractions in Niagara Falls

13. Niagara SkyWheel Admission Ticket

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (306+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for one of the best ways to admire the beauty of Niagara Falls, take a spin on the Niagara SkyWheel, which stands 175 feet (53 metres) tall, making it Canada’s largest observation wheel. Enjoy a breathtaking journey on this giant Ferris wheel, with incredible views of the famed Horseshoe and American Falls, the Niagara skyline and other landmarks from the safety and comfort of an enclosed, climate-controlled cabin. Take pictures in every direction and listen as a narration details the sites below. This economical sightseeing attraction is available year-round, in any type of weather, making it one of the top attractions in Niagara Falls.

Sky wheel was a great fun experience for everyone. Staff where friendly and helpfull. Zero line up, and 3 full rotations stopped at the top and got great views of niagra. -Karen ( see more reviews )

Soar above Niagara Falls for stunning views of the Niagara River, Niagara Parks and Clifton Hill on this 8-minute tour that includes:

• Niagara SkyWheel Admission
• Fully enclosed, climate-controlled gondola
• Optional audio narration

14. Zipline To The Falls in Niagara Falls, Canada

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars (453+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking to combine an incredible view of Niagara Falls with some excitement and adrenaline, enjoy this unique zipline experience across Niagara River Gorge! Strap on your gear and head up to the launch deck before soaring down 2,200 feet (670 metres) of cable near the mighty Horseshoe waterfall. Feel this incredible force of nature and enjoy the views before landing safely on the other side.

The whole experience was awesome. The employees all very friendly and wete very knowledgeable. Would love to do it again next time I come to the Falls. -Geoff ( see more reviews )

This 1.5 Hour zip-lining experience includes:

• Safety helmet and comfortable harness with a pouch for personal effects.
• All necessary instructions safety and enjoyment.
• Falls viewing and photo opportunity at Falls Landing and Observation Deck.
• Return to the top via an open-air shuttle

15. Skylon Tower, Niagara Falls Ontario Observation Deck Admission

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (484+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 Hour | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As you can see from the photo, the Skylon Tower offers one of the best views you can get of Niagara Falls. It can be busy, however, so it’s best to prebook your admission ticket to the Skylon Tower and soak up stunning views of Niagara Falls. A glass-enclosed elevator—‘Ride to the Top’—speeds you up to the observation decks in seconds. From 775 feet (236 metres) above the falls, you can snap unbelievable photos of Horseshoe and American Falls, the Great Gorge, and Niagara River. The Revolving Dining Room and the Summit Suite Buffet offer sumptuous meal options as well, so you can always pair it off with a meal as well. Visit at night to see the illuminated falls or check out the seasonal fireworks displays. We had a great time in Niagara Falls! Was a great vantage point from Skylon Tower. Would recommend to anyone visiting Niagara Falls. -Kevin ( see more reviews )

This 1-2 hour experience in Niagara Falls includes:

• Skylon Tower Admission
• Incredible Views

16. Half-Day Wine & Cheese Tour – Niagara On The Lake Wine Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (290+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Once you’ve had enough of the main attractions in Niagara Falls, you may want to join a tour over in nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of the top wine regions in Canada. During this small-group wine tour , you’ll discover the highlights of Canada’s burgeoning Niagara wine region while travelling in a comfortable minibus. You’ll visit three or four top-rated local wineries, enjoy numerous tastes, discover how wine is made, tour the vineyards, and even enjoy a wine-and-cheese pairing at one of the stops. At the end of your adventure, return directly to your hotel.

Outstanding trip! We went on this tour knowing very little about wine. By the time we finished our tours we learned so much. The wine itself was very enjoyable and the staff were incredibly friendly. I will be recommending this to EVERYONE -Sion ( see more reviews )

This 4+ Hour wine tour includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (Niagara Falls & Niagara On The Lake)
• Driver/guide
• Bottled water
• Tasting Fees at Wineries
• Hand Sanitizer

17. Niagara-on-the-Lake Cycle and Wine-Tasting Tour with Optional Lunch

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (171+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re interested in touring one of Canada’s most famous wine regions, this tour is a great option. Enjoy the quiet country bicycle trails and vineyards of scenic Niagara-on-the-Lake, which is super close to Niagara Falls, on this guided biking and wine-tasting tour . Choose from the 6.5-hour tour, complete with a two-course lunch, or the half-day 4-hour tour. Pedal over mostly flat and simple biking routes to the region’s best wineries to taste unique Canadian wines , including Ontario’s famous ice wine.

The whole tour was fantastic, Chris J was a great guide, very informative and we loved every minute. Group was small so we got to know everyone and wine tasting was well organised and different at each of the 4 vineyards. Lincoln was nice and bikes were good, definitely worth every penny! -Linda ( see more reviews )

Taste unique Canadian wine varietals, including Ontario’s famous ice wine, at wineries ranging from large-production to boutique on this 4-6 hour biking tour that includes:

• Professional, local guide
• Wine-tasting fees and vineyard tour
• Fuji cruiser bicycle and helmet
• 2 Course Lunch (Full-Day Tour Option)
• Pickup and delivery of purchases back to HQ
• Customers do not have to carry purchases on the bikes
• Small Cheese & Charcuterie Box (Half-Day Tour Option)

18. Full-Day Group Wine Tour (with cheese and charcuterie) in Niagara-on-the-Lake

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (86+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Experience the beautiful scenery and the delicious wines of Niagara-on-the-Lake on this full-day small-group wine tasting tour . This is a great introduction to the region for first-timers or can also be a wonderful day out for locals as this tour includes all your transport, allowing you to sample all the different wines without worrying about driving. You’ll also get to enjoy a cheese board and charcuterie at one winery and have some time to explore the beautiful Olde Towne. This is such a wonderful tour for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Niagara Falls.

Marko was our guide and made this experience very special from the time he picked us up until the time he dropped us off. A wonderful group of couples and a single lady who we thoroughly enjoyed tasting wine and having conversation with between wineries. Awesome experience and so glad booked this tour. -Rhonda ( see more reviews )

This 5-hour wine-tasting tour in Niagara-on-the-Lake includes:

• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Round-trip private transfer
• Wine tasting

19. Small Group Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Tasting Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (411+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH: 4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As you can see, there are lots of tours around Niagara-on-the-Lake and that’s because it’s one of the top wine regions in Canada. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover Niagara-on-the-Lake, the birthplace of Ontario’s modern wine industry, on this guided, small-group wine-tasting tour . Sample the area’s wide variety of world-class wines, including Ontario’s famous ice wine. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included (on afternoon departure only).

When I tell you I had the time of my life on this tour. My husband and I ended up the only ones which was very cool. Our guide Peter was so great, patient, and enthusiastic. My God the wines…. My husband who formally claimed he wasn’t a fan of wine and didn’t like red left a different man! I swear he enjoyed it more than I did Haha All the wineries were lovely. The staff were awesome. Never felt rushed or pressured. There is no way you can leave disappointed! -Cassidy ( see more reviews )

This 4-Hour wine tasting tour includes:

• Morning Tour is 3 – 3.5 hours (9.45 am – 1 pm)
• The afternoon Tour is approximately 3.5 – 4 hours (1.30 pm – 5 pm)
• Wine-tasting tour through Niagara-on-the-Lake wine country
• Professional and knowledgeable guide
• Afternoon Tour – Hotel pickup and drop-off from Niagara-on-the-Lake Hotels or Niagara Falls Hotels

20. Premium Tasting Experience Transportation and Wine Tastings

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (72+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Interested in more than wine? Get a taste of the Niagara-on-the-Lake region on this winery, distillery, and brewery tour . This small-group tour brings you to three different properties to taste the wines of the region (with a choice of beer, whiskey, or wine tasting at the Wayne Gretzky Estate.) Learn about the properties’ histories and production methods on this interactive half-day tour.

My husband and I had a great time on this wine tour. Mark was punctual, extremely friendly and informative. Best wine tour we have been on yet! Emily’s tour at Peller Estates Winery was very informative and enjoyable. Loved their wine and ice wine. We enjoyed the wine at Trius and wine and food at Wayne Gretzky Estates. We will be back Mark!! -Lori ( see more reviews )

This 5-6 Hour tour around Niagara-on-the-Lake includes:

• Alcoholic Beverages

21. Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Tour with Lunch -Private Tour in Classic English Cab

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (39+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for a truly unique way to enjoy the wine region of Niagara Falls, this tour is for you! Enjoy an in-depth and indulgent introduction to the esteemed Niagara wine region on this private tour in a classic London black cab . Meet your guide at your Niagara Falls or Niagara-on-the-Lake hotel, hop aboard your vehicle for the day, and head out to try some of Ontario’s best wines. You’ll get an introduction to winemaking and will enjoy a tutored tasting. Following a multi-course lunch at a gourmet restaurant, or an outside picnic lunch (weather dependent), venture to four other wineries to sample numerous other varietals.

I have done several wine tours and this was by FAR the greatest one. Tom, our driver, was very knowledgeable of the area, took us to see beautiful sites when we had extra time between wineries and took wonderful care of us! The novelty of touring around in the English can was totally worth it – so fun! I highly recommend this tour to anyone who loves NOTL or is looking to experience it for the first time! A+ -Kathleen ( see more reviews )

This unique wine-tasting tour near Niagara Falls includes:

Looking for more cool tours?

Whether you’re looking for more wine tours or exploring other parts of Ontario, we’ve got you covered. Check out these travel guides below:

• The Best Niagara wine tours
• The Best Toronto Tours
• The Best Montreal Tours
• The Best Calgary Tours

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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Niagara Falls: 4 Mistakes to Avoid & What to do Instead

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When we took our first trip to Niagara Falls more than a decade ago, I was convinced it would be our last. It wasn’t that impressive, the area seemed kind of tacky and in three hours we felt like we’d seen more than we really needed to.

It turns out we were doing it wrong. We made plenty of Niagara Falls “rookie mistakes”, but fortunately I learned from them and our visit at the end of our epic New York/Canada road trip . Our second trip to Niagara Falls was far more successful, so I’m here to share what I’ve learned along the way: the best things to do in Niagara Falls and what not to do in Niagara Falls. You’ll also find out where to stay in Niagara Falls, how to get around Niagara Falls Canada and more in this Niagara Falls trip planning guide.

Where to stay in Niagara Falls (Canadian side)

I’ll discuss the reasons why more below, but I strongly recommend that you get a hotel on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. There are a few features I’d look out for that are specific to staying overnight in Niagara Falls, and in my opinion a clear winner .

• Falls view: The point of staying overnight in Niagara Falls is to have an amazing view at all hours, so don’t skimp on this! If you’re using a hotel comparison engine to narrow things down by price, they generally show you the cheapest available room rather than the room with the view you want – prepare to do some digging.
• Accessibility to Niagara Falls viewing area: The vast majority of Niagara Falls hotels with a view are located along Fallsview Blvd. However , that’s up a fairly steep hill from the platforms along Niagara Parkway and there’s basically just one pedestrian route connecting them – Murray Street.
• Breakfast: In 2022 none of the hotels were offering free breakfast, and it showed. I kid you not that the line at the closest Tim Horton’s was out the door and all the way along the outside wall of the shop at 9am! For 2023, it looks like complimentary breakfast is back on at many hotels. If you’re planning ahead for a visit during the busy summer season, try to book a hotel that will serve a quick breakfast and get you out the door and on your way to the top Niagara Falls attractions.

Speaking of planning ahead, the good rooms at best hotels in Niagara Falls do book up early! Don’t miss out on a room with a view of Niagara Falls, especially if you’re visiting in the summer.

So which hotel do I think you should stay at in Niagara Falls? To me the winner is Embassy Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview – which is not where we stayed . The Embassy Suites has a front-and-center view of both the American and Canadian sides for the nighttime light show, and it’s one of the best hotels where you can see the Niagara Falls fireworks! It’s one of the tallest hotels in Niagara Falls, so there are lots of opportunities for an excellent view. The hotel includes free breakfast and an evening manager’s reception, plus there’s a Starbucks in the lobby.

The other piece that makes the Embassy Suites a stand-out is the Niagara Falls Incline Railway in its backyard. Instead of hoofing it all the way to the Casino and traversing the steep hill of Murray Street, you can pay a few dollars to be deposited right where you want to go: the main viewing platform for Niagara Falls and the Niagara Falls Welcome Center. The Incline Railway is a miniature funicular and you can buy unlimited rides for just over $6 CAD per day. While the Niagara Falls Incline Railway is available to anyone willing to pay, the convenience for Embassy Suites guests is just unparalleled.

Check prices on these sites to make sure you get the best deal on the Embassy Suites in Niagara Falls:

If the Embassy Suites is so great, why didn’t we stay there? First, because I didn’t fully realize how isolated most of Fallsview Blvd is from Niagara Parkway (and when we arrived late at night the hotel clerk didn’t mention that we could shorten our walk by catching the Incline Railway). But second, I booked relatively last-minute for a holiday weekend and the cost would have been much more than I was willing to swallow.

As a compromise, we stayed up the street at the Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview . Check out our view above! In addition to the cheaper room, parking cost a reasonable $25 CAD compared with $70 CAD at Embassy Suites (yes, you read that right).

The Radisson isn’t nearly as tall as many of its neighbors and it’s located behind them (specifically this one ), but they do offer several rooms (including ours) with excellent views. Check out our view here! It flies a little “under the radar” compared to some of its neighbors so you may be more likely to score a deal compared with other Fallsview hotels. The staff was very helpful and the kids couldn’t get enough of the enormous polar bear in the lobby.

Check prices for the Radisson Niagara Falls here:

A final option to consider is the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel . It underwent a massive renovation within the last few years. It offers great views of Niagara Falls if you select the right room – be careful when booking because some rooms don’t even have a window (which I’ve never actually experienced at a hotel). If you want to see Horseshoe Falls, you have to select either “Fallsview” (preferably high floor) or “Canadian Fallsview Corner”.

One reason lots of families like the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel is that it’s directly connected to the fantastic Fallsview Indoor Waterpark. When you book directly through Marriott you can select a package that includes tickets. The waterpark has fun for all ages and is open (and heated) year-round.

If none of these strikes your fancy, this handy map should help you find a great hotel that meets your location needs and budget:

Niagara Falls Mistakes to Avoid

Want to have an amazing trip to Niagara Falls? Be sure not to make these mistakes – including a few that we’ve made in the past .

DON’T: Stay only on the American side

On our first visit to Niagara Falls, many years ago, we were driving from Buffalo and made a quick stop en route to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Stopping on the American side of Niagara Falls made sense for our plans so that’s what we did.

Unfortunately, the view from the American side of Niagara Falls is… incomplete. You can’t see all of Horseshoe Falls, and you’re standing right next to American Falls so that you can’t see all of that either when you’re in Niagara Falls State Park. When you’re debating Niagara Falls Canada vs New York, the winner is clear.

The only reason to skip the Canadian side of Niagara Falls in favor of the American side is if you don’t have a passport or you’re in a huge rush coming from the New York. If you have enough time, feel free to stop at both!

I won’t go into depth on the tourist attractions in Niagara Falls NY, but you’ll want to check out both Maid of the Mist and Niagara Falls observation tower (which extends over Niagara River Gorge) so that you can see American Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Under the encouragement of Frederick Law Olmsted, the area surrounding the falls was wisely preserved as America’s first state park so there are plenty of beautiful free viewpoints.

Book a photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in the photos since I’m always behind the camera. We use Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking with this link or clicking below.

DON’T: Get sucked into a scam

Confession time: on that ill-fated first trip to Niagara Falls, we didn’t do any research. We were just taking a quick side trip from Buffalo and we assumed everything would be straightforward. Go take in a view point, take a ride on Maid of the Mist and then move on to Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Everything seemed fine as we pulled into the parking lot at One Niagara Welcome Center (pictured above so that you can avoid it) – it offers some of the cheapest parking in Niagara Falls New York. But once in the lot, we were funneled into the massive, official-looking building in order to access the Falls.

Since they advertise attraction tickets we asked to buy tickets for Maid of the Mist. They were happy to sell us tickets, but told us that the only way to go on Maid of the Mist was as part of a tour to see several Niagara Falls sites. That was an out and out lie, but we only found out after we had paid and been herded onto a shuttle bus that took us miles away (with other unsuspecting tourists) to see some other part of the Niagara River. At the end of the tour, more than an hour later, we were dropped off at the actual entrance to Maid of the Mist and handed bulk-purchased tickets.

Needless to say the experience left a bad taste in our mouths, as we felt we’d been cheated of our time, our money and our preference to be independent travelers. Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York State and has the infrastructure to match – just don’t get suckered.

Read more: How to make the most of 24 hours in Toronto

DON’T: Spend all of your time mobbed by tourists

The most popular place in Niagara Falls, Canada is the walkway between the Table Rock Visitors Center and the boarding area for Niagara City Cruises, then continuing up to the Clifton Hill entertainment area. It’s packed!

Don’t be afraid to get away from the crows to have a different Niagara Falls experience. We found it much more peaceful on either end of Niagara Parkway (closer to Rainbow Bridge and near the Niagara Parks Power Station ). After being packed like sardines on a 700 person boat, finding ourselves virtually alone in Bird Kingdom was a welcome change – more on that below!

Another great way to avoid huge crowds is to visit Niagara Falls in winter !

DON’T: Leave after just a few hours

While you could get a quick taste of Niagara Falls just by looking out from the platform and taking a boat tour, you’d be missing out! Seeing Niagara Falls illuminated at night, getting below the Falls, watching fireworks over the American Falls, checking out an aerial view of Horseshoe Falls… there’s just so much to do that it’s worth spending at least 1 day in Niagara Falls.

We arrived in Niagara Falls mid-afternoon and departed just before lunch the following day. That allowed us enough time to see the Falls both day and night, and also minimized our crowded, tourist-priced meals.

Even if you’re only exploring the Niagara Falls American side, it’s still worth catching the unique side view of the illuminated American Falls before checking into your Niagara Falls New York hotel for the night.

Niagara Falls Things to Do

We’ve gone over what not to do, but what are the best things to do in Niagara Falls? Here are a few absolute “musts” along with Niagara Falls tips to ensure everything goes smoothly for you. Don’t forget to slow down and enjoy how pretty the area is!

DO: Get a room with a view

I’m not normally a hotel splurger, and I hesitate to even call our one night at the Fallsview Radisson a “splurge” at just over $300 USD. But there’s truly something special about seeing Niagara Falls from above during both the day and night. I even went to sleep with the window shade up a bit so that I could watch the light show on Horseshoe Falls from bed.

Since I went over the Fallsview hotels I recommend above I won’t rehash them now, but be sure to review those options carefully. Here are a few quick picks:

• Embassy Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview
• Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview
• Map view with more options

DO: Take a boat tour

One of the most classic things to do in Niagara Falls is a boat tour, either Maid of the Mist on the New York side or Niagara City Cruises (formerly Hornblower) on the Canadian side. The two Niagara Falls boat tours are basically the same except for the departure point and the Canadian boats are a little nicer in my opinion. They both cross in front of the American Falls and then proceed into the thundering water of Horseshoe Falls for a drenching. Thankfully both boats give visitors a poncho to stay dry – red on the Canadian side and blue on the American side.

How long is the Niagara Falls boat tour? Surprisingly, it’s only about 20 minutes. But allow plenty of time for the complete “experience” if you’re visiting Niagara Falls in the summer – from the time we got in line to board to the time we disembarked it was a solid hour, plus a few more minutes waiting for an elevator back to the top.

What should you wear for Maid of the Mist or Hornblower? On a small adult carrying a backpack, the poncho goes to about knee length. I chose to wear shorts and waterproof shoes to avoid walking around soggy for the rest of the day. The ponchos extend much further on kids obviously, so only their shoes were exposed. One kid wore Keens while the other wore these boots and both stayed dry and comfortable.

Where is the best place to stand on a Niagara City Cruise? We took our Niagara Falls cruise in the afternoon, and it worked out great to park ourselves near the front of the boat a little toward the American side. We had a fantastic view of all three waterfalls for almost the entire boat ride and didn’t have the sun in our eyes except for a brief time at the end (when we were already soaked from Horseshoe Falls and didn’t care).

Can you take a baby on Maid of the Mist or Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower)? There’s no age restriction on children riding the Hornblower/Niagara City Cruises/Maid of the Mist. However , you need to think carefully about how you’re going to bring your baby on board. The provided ponchos do a very good job of keeping your upper half dry, but wouldn’t be safe for babywearing since they’re totally unbreathable.

The family next to us actually brought their entire stroller/car seat travel system on board but quickly seemed to realize it wasn’t a great choice: absolutely everything was soaked as soon as we got near Horseshoe Falls and there’s a risk that their car seat will develop rust and/or mold if not properly drained and air dried very quickly. At some point they took their overwhelmed and unhappy baby out of her car seat to hold her and they did their best to hold the slippery poncho around her. I’m not sure there’s really a great way to take a baby on a Niagara Falls boat tour but hopefully this at least gives you some food for thought.

DO: See Niagara Falls from different perspectives

The water flow rate over Niagara Falls clocks in at a cool 750,000 gallons per second . It is truly jaw-dropping and a place you have to see.

But one of the most fascinating things about Niagara Falls is that it looks completely different depending on where you’re standing. Give yourself time to check it out from different angles! Obviously be sure to stop at the main viewing areas along Niagara Parkway – there’s a reason this area is the most popular place to view Niagara Falls.

I’d recommend heading to the far ends of town for a more unique perspective in addition. For instance, if you head over toward the Falls from the Niagara Parks Power Station (more on that later) you can actually get right near the water before it tumbles over the cliff… and then you can get down to the bottom of the Falls too.

Closer to (of even on ) Rainbow Bridge on the opposite side of town you’ll get a wider perspective on the Falls. You can also get that broader – and higher – perspective from the top of Skylon Tower standing 775 feet above the Falls. Be sure to check this Groupon for discounted tickets!

DO: Consider your transportation options

The simplest way to visit Niagara Falls is by car. That’s straight-forward if you’re on a road trip, but if you’re flying in you’ll want to arrive in Toronto (2-2.5 hours depending on traffic) or Buffalo (45 minutes plus time to cross the border).

While Buffalo Niagara International Airport is closer, flights may be more limited an expensive – for example, our home in Columbus is much closer to Buffalo and in the same country, but Buffalo flights are more expensive and inexplicably require a stop. Greater Rochester International Airport faces the same challenges and is even further from Niagara Falls, though it’s a good gateway to visiting the Finger Lakes NY .

Keep in mind travel document requirements, which vary based on exactly how you get to Niagara Falls, Ontario.

• Flying into Toronto: Everyone needs a valid passport book
• Flying into Buffalo and crossing overland: Adults need a passport book, passport card, enhanced drivers license ( not the same as Real ID ) or NEXUS card; children under 16 only need a birth certificate

Why does this difference in documentation matter? If you’re planning to visit Niagara Falls with kids and your family doesn’t travel overseas with any regularity, it may be cheaper to fly into Buffalo since only the adults need a passport and they may have access to less expensive alternatives.

Once you get to an airport in the region, you can consider either renting a car or taking one of the many shuttle options from Toronto or from Buffalo . Which option is right for you depends a bit on what you intend to do – if you just want to spend a day or two at the falls, don’t plan on driving or you’re staying at a hotel with crazy expensive parking then the shuttle option maybe be a great fit.

Within the town of Niagara Falls, you can walk to some locations, take the hop-on/hop-off WEGO tourist bus (particularly the blue line) or drive and park as need be. If you have a rental car, you may want to park it at your hotel as soon as you arrive in Niagara Falls and then walk or take WEGO everywhere. Daily parking at most lots that are anywhere near the falls is $25-30. I paid it one day because it made logistical sense for our plans, but it definitely hurt!

If you’re thinking about the bus, WEGO Niagara Falls bus fare in 2022 is $10 per 24 hours for adults and $7 per child. You can also combine it with a daily package for the Niagara Falls Incline Railway at $6 per day. These options are all reasonably priced, but if you’re traveling as a family then parking in one of the convenient lots may just be the most sensible choice. In the photo at the top of this section, you can see where the Incline Railway, WEGO and parking all meld together near the Table Rock Welcome Centre.

DO: Visit some less popular attractions

It seems like there are a thousand different Niagara Falls attractions – some good, some bad and apparently some ugly . This time around we managed to have a few fantastic experiences that most tourists overlook.

Niagara Parks Power Station

The  Niagara Park Power Station  just opened as an attraction in summer 2022, so it’s still a little bit of a hidden gem. It was the first major power station on the Canadian side of the Niagara River and (other than added explanatory posters) still looks much like it did when it was operational. I highly recommend the guided tour, which explains how the falls were used to generate electricity, the fascinating history of the power plant and how it impacted the entire Niagara region.

After the tour, you’ll take a glass elevator down 180 feet and then walk the half-mile tunnel that used to carry water back into the Niagara River at the base of the falls. The viewing platform adjacent to Horseshoe Falls provides a fantastic perspective. It’s not as immersive as Maid of the Mist and Niagara City Cruises, but without the sheer power of Niagara Falls blinding you with its spray.

We spent about 2.5 hours at the Power Station including the guided tour and tunnel. The tunnel is cooler than it is outside, so you’ll want to throw a sweatshirt in your bag to be prepared or wear a long sleeved shirt. There are ponchos available (you can see them in yellow in the photo above) in case the wind picks up and brings spray toward the platform, but it’s less common than on the boat tours.

Bird Kingdom

We often prefer to visit locally-themed attractions when we travel, but an Ontario family we met over the summer convinced me that Bird Kingdom was well worth a visit. They were absolutely right! Be sure to add this to your plans for a family vacation to Niagara Falls, Canada.

Before I tell you how great the experience is, it’s good to know that Bird Kingdom is accredited by the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums – their residents come from other zoos, from the Species Survival Program, from surrenders by private owners and other ethical means. It’s run professionally and prioritizes animal welfare.

Now that the critical stuff is covered, our experience at Bird Kingdom was just as lovely as our Canadian friends promised! Even though we visited on Sunday afternoon of a holiday weekend, we were just about the only people there. We spent tons of time privately enjoying the company of parrots, macaws and other exotic birds while peppering their human caregiver with questions about their behaviors, personalities and care. The kids and I were all enthralled!

The biggest claim to fame is that Bird Kingdom is the world’s largest indoor free-fly aviary. You can easily spend an hour watching a huge variety of birds flying around just being birds! There’s also a fun opportunity to feed the adorable lorikeets.

Thankfully Bird Kingdom has its own two-level parking garage that costs a very reasonable $3 per hour! You pay at the machine with a credit card and just pop the receipt in your windshield. Because Bird Kingdom is past the Rainbow Bridge, it’s much quieter than everything closer to the Falls. We parked our car there and made the quick walk over to Niagara City Cruises, then came back after the boat ride to spend an hour with the birds – Bird Kingdom is open until 6:30 in the summer (last admission 5:45).

We found the cheapest ticket prices through their (permanent?) Groupon using one of the frequently-available coupons to save on local activities.

DO: Drive for food if you need to

As I scoured Yelp for the best Niagara Falls restaurants, I was struck by the high prices and mediocre reviews paired with exhausting wait times reported for nearly every spot close to the Falls or the popular (and ultra-crowded) Clifton Hill entertainment area. Since I have no tolerance for that combination of traits, I asked some locals where to head for a better experience.

The universal suggestion was to head to the Lundy’s Lane district, about 3km from Clifton Hill. It’s a quick drive but offers better restaurants and little to no wait time even when we visited on a crowded holiday weekend. We had a nice, quiet Thai meal at Micah’s Bistro . Another recommended option is Italian restaurant Carpaccio just across the street.

The great news is that if you’ve chosen to rely on WEGO to get around Niagara Falls, you can take the red line to Dorchester Road to access some of these good restaurants in Niagara Falls.

For a truly special dining experience, head to nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake for dinner at HOB NOB . It’s housed in a restored 1832 Victorian manor that’s also the location of The Charles Hotel . We dined there for our anniversary what seems like a lifetime ago and it remains a memorable experience! While I know I suggested above staying in Niagara Falls and I still stand by that, I’ll forgive you for choosing the romantic charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake instead.

DO: Explore the rest of the area

The Niagara region of Ontario and western New York offer so many wonderful sites to explore! It would be a shame to overlook them. Even within just a few minutes of Niagara Falls there are a few places that should be on your radar for a Niagara Falls itinerary:

Niagara-on-the-Lake

On our first visit to the area we stayed overnight in this charming village just 15 minutes north of Niagara Falls, Ontario. It offers beautiful scenery along Lake Ontario, great dining and wonderful wineries to sample. The local specialty is ice wine, which benefits from the cold winters.

To avoid driving yourself from winery to winery, check out these two unique tour offerings:

• Small group wine tasting tour – Includes visits to three hand-selected wineries to showcase a variety of styles and sizes
• Vine and Dine winery bike tour – During our visit we saw just how bike-friendly the region is, so this will be our pick next time! You’ll visit four wineries and enjoy a picnic lunch all while getting in your exercise for the day.

Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center

While most of this article showcases things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario, there’s one spot that’s on my personal “to visit” list for Niagara Falls, New York: the Underground Railroad Heritage Center . We missed it only because it wasn’t open the day we were on the New York side of Niagara Falls! This is a must-visit if you’re considering a 4 day Niagara Falls itinerary, which would give you plenty of time to explore both sides.

This region played a critical role in the search for freedom by self-emancipated Black Americans. Translation? Even as formerly enslaved people traveled up the East Coast or through Ohio away from “slave states”, the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 kept them at risk as long as they remained in the United States. Thousands of people flooded across the Niagara River Suspension Bridge to reach safety and freedom in Canada – you can read more details here .

At the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center you’ll learn the stories of individual freedom seekers and pay homage to their lives through a unique art, interactive exhibits and more. Guided tours are available morning and afternoon most days of the week.

Visiting Niagara Falls Canada FAQs

Niagara Falls is the connection point between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. It straddles the border between southern Ontario, Canada and western New York State.

The Canadian side of Niagara Falls affords a more complete view and robust tourism infrastructure for visiting Niagara Falls.

If you don’t have the time or documentation to cross the border to see Niagara Falls’ Canadian side, it’s still worth a quick visit to the American side.

You can get a great taste of Niagara Falls in 24 hours.

While Americans do not need a passport to see Niagara Falls from New York, you do need a passport, passport card, NEXUS card or enhanced drivers license to access the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.

It’s possible to plan a car-free trip to Niagara Falls as long as you budget for transportation from a nearby airport.

If you’re trying to figure out how to get from NYC to Niagara Falls, you first need to recognize that they’re nowhere close to each other: the drive time is almost 7 hours if you don’t hit any traffic. The best way to get to Niagara Falls from NYC is to fly to Buffalo and hop in an Uber or grab a rental car .

Where to go next

It’s easy to extend your trip to Niagara Falls with these great options nearby!

• 9 Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls in the Winter (by a Local)
• An Incredible New York & Canada Road Trip
• How To Make The Most Of One Day In Toronto
• 10 Unmissable Things to do in Montreal
• Where to stay in Montreal with kids
• Quebec City Itinerary: 3 Days of History, Beauty and Beyond
• Whale Watching in Quebec: The Perfect Day Trip
• 8 Awesome Things to do in the Finger Lakes with Kids this Summer
• Watkins Glen State Park Hiking Tips
• How to Spend Your First Weekend In Pittsburgh and Love Every Minute of It

Still planning? Pin this for later!

What to read next

14 thoughts on “niagara falls: 4 mistakes to avoid & what to do instead”.

Can I fly into Buffalo and stay in Canada??

Hi Cynthia,

Absolutely! But you’ll need a passport to cross the border.

Safe travels, Melissa

I must say that shared information is really good. I will try to visiit this fall again!

My family and I just came back from the Falls and had a wonderful time. I wish I saw this well written blog prior to our stay, such valuable information!!! Definitely do Maid and the Mist that was extremely fun for the my family. Enjoy your trip and thanks for this insightful information, which I will definitely us upon our return.

I’m so glad you guys enjoyed all of the things to do in Niagara Falls!

Safe travels,

My daughter and I are in Toronto for just four days, and I rented a car from 6 PM Thursday to 6 PM Friday so we could drive out to London to see Western University. I thought about trying to cram in the most American thing ever… a drive-by visit to Niagara Falls!

Thanks to your article I was able to make a plan that worked fine. We left downtown Toronto at 6 AM, arrived at the Falls at 7:30 AM, turned towards the power station and parked in the tour bus only lot that is just 50 yards from the best view of all. No one is out enforcing anything at that time in the morning, so we got a few photos and a video and made it to Western with half an hour to spare. On the return trip we got the car back with another half hour to spare.

Couldn’t follow your recommendations to really take everything in, but it’s better to have seen it than not, yes? I thought it was so majestic at that hour, though very misty.

That’s a quick trip but I’m glad you made it there!

Enjoy your next adventure,

Such great information! We’re planning a trip next summer. Thanks for taking the time to write all of this out.

I’m so glad you found it helpful! Have an amazing trip to Niagara Falls.

Hi Melissa, planning our first family trip to Niagara Falls. Planning to visit both the US and the CAN side. From research, it seems choosing to stay in a hotel on the CAN side is preferred. We are flying from Louisiana. Should we fly into Toronto (YYZ)? 2 hour ride to get to Ontario. However, I don’t know if it would be feasible to fly into closer Niagara Falls Airport (IAG) then cross the Rainbow Bridge with all four of us pulling our carryon luggage to get to our CAN hotel. Thoughts?? Thank you. Really informative blog!

Hi Melanie, thanks for stopping by! The bridge is pretty long and I wouldn’t choose to cross on foot with luggage. Are you renting a car? It’s simple to cross by car.

Nice post. This wasn’t what I was searching for but I still liked reading it.

So much valuable information. Thanks! Would you have any info on transportation to Canadian hotel if we take Amtrak from NYC?

There’s a green line bus that goes directly to Table Rock, which is the centralized transportation hub for the Fallsview area. From there you can walk and take the Incline Railway.

But realistically, I’d just request an Uber! Simpler and a very quick ride.

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NIAGARA FALLS ADVENTURE TOURS

Best of niagara falls: maid of the mist + cave of the winds + trolley pass + guided tour.

• The Original Adventure Tour + Maid of the Mist Boat Ride
• LO MEJOR DE LAS CATARATAS DEL NIÁGARA: PASEO EN EL BARCO FAMOSO MAID OF THE MIST + CAVE OF THE WINDS + PASE DE TRANVÍA TURÍSTICO + VISITA GUIADA EN ESPAÑOL
• LAS ICÓNICAS CATARATAS DEL NIÁGARA: VISITA GUIADA DE 1 HORA EN ESPAÑOL + PASEO EN EL BARCO FAMOSO MAID OF THE MIST
• The Daredevil Tour + Cave of the Winds Combo
• THE DAREDEVIL TOUR
• NIAGARA FALLS ADVENTURES’ MOBSTERS & MAYHEM TOUR
• CHRISTMAS IN JULY SANTA TOUR WITH MAID OF THE MIST + CAVE OF THE WINDS + TROLLEY PASS
• GUIDE TO NIAGARA FALLS
• WHAT'S INCLUDED
• WHAT TO BRING
• MEETING POINT

Get the most of your visit to Niagara Falls with this immersive sightseeing experience that includes our award winning 1-hour guided tour, as well as admission to Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist. Throughout your tour, expect to learn plenty of fun facts about this world-famous natural attraction from your tour guide, a lifelong lover of this New York state park. This family-friendly and ADA-compliant tour takes you to observation decks to view the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. You can also expect tickets to Cave of the Winds and a boat ride on the world-famous Maid of the Mist. Founded in 1846, the Maid of the Mist has hosted royalty, celebrities, and soon….YOU!

• This tour can accommodate up to 24 guests.
• The walking paths of Goat Island and Luna Island are ADA compliant.
• On this walking tour, we take plenty of breaks to rest and enjoy the surroundings.
• Parking is not included in the price of the tour.

Experience & Highlights

Discover the magic of Niagara Falls with this complete package including our award winning 1-hour guided tour, entrance to Cave of the Winds, and Maid of the Mist boat ride

Put on your complimentary poncho and enter the Cave of the Winds

Expect a leisurely 1-hour walk along well-paved trails with your licensed expert Niagara Falls Adventure guide

Hop aboard the world-famous Maid of the Mist for an unforgettable ride

Expect expert commentary about the sights and sounds of the New York side of Niagara from experienced tour guides

Meet in front of the Hard Rock Cafe. This is located directly across the street from parking lot 1. Look for your guide, who will arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the Niagara Falls tour to check in (and welcome!) you for your 1-hour tour. Our uniform is a light blue polo shirt and khaki-colored pants/shorts. 

Take a short stroll over to the Niagara Falls State Park map, where your guide shows you places visited on today’s tour, including your skip-the-line experience in the Cave of the Winds. Throughout the 1-hour tour, expect fun, lesser-known facts about the American side of Niagara Falls as you take in the thundering majesty of the Horseshoe Falls (the biggest waterfall at Niagara), American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Feel the mist touch your face as you take a moment to yourself to appreciate the great outdoors. You’ll visit both Goat Island (which borders Canada) as well as Luna Island, where you get to stand on top of both the Bridal Veil and American Falls.

One of the most fun things to do in Niagara Falls is undoubtedly hopping aboard the Maid of the Mist for a ride beside all three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls including being at the foot of the Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the waterfalls here. While the ride itself is a blast, expect to make it an even more special experience with your tour guide capturing the perfect photo and sharing plenty of interesting stories about the oldest attraction in the United States.

At the end of our award winning 1-hour guided tour of Goat Island, it’s time to experience one of the park’s major attractions: Cave of the Winds. You won’t wait in long lines because our guide will have reserved your access to “The World Changed Here” pavilion and movie. After enjoying these attractions,  you are equipped with a rain poncho before you make the 150-foot descent into the Niagara Gorge, via an elevator, to arrive at the wooden decks. From here, you’re standing a mere 20 feet away from the Bridal Veil Falls. Your guide can’t guarantee rainbows, but it’s likely that you’ll see them here at the base!

What's Included

What to bring, cancellation policies.

• A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start date.
• No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start date.

Meeting Point

Hard Rock Café, 333 Prospect St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303

Niagara Falls State Park is located in the city of Niagara Falls, New York. It’s official address is 332 Prospect St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303.

Niagara Falls State Park is free to the public.

First of all, one major benefit of visiting Niagara Falls on a tour is that operators such as Niagara Falls Adventure Tours are here on a daily basis. We know all the things that are worth doing while at Niagara Falls, as well as the things you easily risk missing out on unless you’ve already been here several times.

What’s more, years of experience have taught us how to structure each visit to make it unique, and help you get the most out of your time at Niagara Falls.

Often, having the help of a professional can help you move along more smoothly, and tick off various attraction points faster. For example, if you want to go beneath the falls, hang out on the observation deck, and enjoy some grub at Red Coach Inn, we know how to organize that best so that you stick to your schedule!

On the American side, not only do you get to view all three of the waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls (Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls), you get to experience them up close and personal at the Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist, and on our award winning 1-hour guided tour.

Yes! Niagara Falls State Park is committed to making North America’s oldest attraction accessible to all. Over the last few years, the park has made major renovations and improvements to ensure attractions are ADA-compliant. You can expect flat, paved routes as well as access to major draws including Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist.

The Horseshoe Falls (aka Canadian Falls), American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls all make up the Niagara Falls.

Expect a $10 daily fee on weekdays and and $15 daily fee on weekends for state park parking (the closest parking to Niagara Falls). We recommend checking the Niagara Falls State Park website  for most up-to-date information.

6 Best Niagara Falls Tours from New York

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | 6 Best Niagara Falls Tours from New York

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Niagara Falls is one of the most spectacular places in the country, so if you’re visiting the Big Apple, consider taking a Niagara Falls tour from NYC .

If you’ve never been to this natural wonder, an organized bus tour from NYC to Niagara Falls makes things easy by arranging your transportation and itinerary for you. This way, you’ll see all the highlights and learn more about this breathtaking place.

Best Niagara Falls tours from New York

While it’s one of the best day trips from NYC , I recommend staying overnight, if possible. For those who don’t want to drive from NYC to Niagara Falls , there are multi-day tours available. Many of them visit other nearby landmarks and attractions so that you can make the most of your time.

In this guide, I’ll share the 6 best tours to Niagara Falls from New York , from day trips to multi-day tour packages. I also recommend reading our visitor’s guide to Niagara Falls so you know what to expect during your trip.

Best tours to Niagara Falls from NYC

There is a variety of tour options available, so you can find the perfect way to get to Niagara Falls from New York . It all depends on how much time you have and what you want to see during your trip. In this guide, I’ll share the top excursions to Niagara Falls from New York City , including 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5-day tours.

• Day tour to Niagara Falls from NYC by bus
• Day tour to Niagara Falls from NYC by airplane
• 2-day Niagara Falls tour from New York (U.S. & Canadian sides)
• 3-day Niagara Falls tour from NYC (+ Toronto & Thousand Islands)
• 4-day Niagara Falls tour from NYC (+ Philadelphia & Washington D.C.)
• 5-day Niagara Falls tour from NYC (+ Toronto, Thousand Islands, Philadelphia & Washington D.C.)

1. Day tour to Niagara Falls from New York by bus

If you’re only in New York for a brief visit, you can maximize your time with a 1-day trip to Niagara Falls from New York . I recommend this excursion , which departs from Times Square early in the morning and takes you to the U.S.–Canada border.

During the ride there, you’ll learn about the geological history of the falls and some little-known facts and stunts that took place here. Once you arrive at Niagara Falls State Park , you’ll have time to explore the various viewpoints and capture incredible images.

Day tour to Niagara Falls from New York by bus

You’ll visit Goat Island and the famous Terrapin Point lookout for stunning views of the Horseshoe Falls, and if you’re taking the tour between May and October, you may opt for riding the Maid of the Mist to get up close to the falls.

Overall, this bus tour from NYC to Niagara Falls is a cheap alternative to the multi-day tours. You’ll get to admire the majesty of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Horseshoe Falls . Plus, transportation is taken care of for you, and you’ll be able to get back to NYC late the same day.

• Duration : 19-20 hours
• Price : $240
• Highlights : Round-trip bus; U.S. side of Niagara Falls; optional Maid of the Mist tour

2. Day tour to Niagara Falls from New York by air

If you’re interested in a 1-day trip to Niagara Falls from New York , consider flying there. This day tour by air is a quick and comfortable way to get to the falls, making it ideal for those who don’t have much time to travel.

The tour can depart from JFK or LaGuardia Airport, and you can save yourself the hassle by taking an NYC airport shuttle from your hotel to get there. You’ll take the 1.5-hour flight from New York City to Niagara Falls , landing in Buffalo or Rochester. There, you’ll meet with your guides, who will drive you to Niagara Falls State Park .

Day tour to Niagara Falls from New York by air

You’ll have 4-5 hours to explore Niagara Falls from the U.S. side. From May to October, the tour includes a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist . If you take the tour between November and April, the boat ride is substituted with a visit to the observation deck from which you can see the American Falls, Rainbow Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Goat Island, and Three Sisters Islands.

At midday, savor a delicious lunch at a Niagara Falls restaurant, then enjoy your free time and continue exploring Niagara Falls. You can even cross the border and go see Niagara Falls from the Canadian side on your own (just make sure you check first if you need a visa ).

As the afternoon rolls around, board the plane back to NYC. While flying is one of the most convenient ways to travel, remember that it’s more expensive than a bus tour from NYC to Niagara Falls .

• Duration : 15 hours
• Price : $699
• Highlights : Round-trip plane ticket; U.S. side of Niagara Falls; Maid of the Mist boat tour (May – October) or admission to the observation deck (November – April)

3. The ultimate 2-day trip to Niagara Falls from NYC

I highly recommend spending more than a day at Niagara Falls, so if you have time, check out a multi-day trip like this 2-day tour . You’ll travel in a comfortable bus from NYC to Niagara Falls , but before you get to the falls, you’ll stop at Watkins Glen State Park , a picturesque place in the Finger Lakes region.

Once you arrive at Niagara Falls, you’ll explore the American side of the falls. Admire the rushing waters of the American and Bridal Veil Falls and check out the iconic viewpoints by Goat Island and Three Sisters Island . As it gets dark, you’ll see the ambient lights at the park bathe the falls in various colors.

The ultimate 2-day trip to Niagara Falls from NYC

This 2-day tour package to Niagara Falls from New York includes one night in a cozy hotel and complimentary breakfast the next morning. After eating, you’ll get up close and personal with the falls , either on the Maid of the Mist (May-October) or by walking through the Cave of the Winds (November-April).

After a few hours of exploring the area, you’ll get back on the bus and head back to Manhattan. But first, you’ll have a pit stop at the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets , one of the best outlets near NYC , where you can go shopping or grab a bite to eat.

This is the perfect 2-day tour from NYC to Niagara Falls that makes the most of your time and allows you to appreciate the falls’ best views.

• Duration : 2 days
• Price : $385
• Highlights : Round-trip bus; Watkins Glen State Park; U.S. side of Niagara Falls; 1-night hotel accommodation; Maid of the Mist boat tour (May – October) or Cave of the Winds (November – April); outlet shopping

4. The best 3-day Niagara Falls tour from New York

Niagara Falls is one of the best places to see in New York State , so if you can dedicate three days to it, I highly recommend doing so. A 3-day Niagara Falls tour from New York will give you enough time to discover everything on the American and Canadian sides, plus some nearby attractions.

I like this 3-day trip , which departs from Manhattan and stops at Watkins Glen State Park , where you’ll take a short waterfall hike. Then, you’ll continue your journey past Seneca Lake and the Finger Lakes region up to Niagara Falls.

Spend the afternoon visiting the American side of Niagara Falls State Park , including Goat Island and Luna Island . Enjoy a ride on the Maid of the Mist and experience the thunderous power of the falls up close. At nightfall, see the waterfalls illuminated in colorful lights before getting some sleep at the hotel.

The best 3-day Niagara Falls tour from New York

The next day, you’ll see the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, with stops at the Horseshoe Falls viewpoints and Niagara on the Lake , a small village on the Niagara River. Afterward, you’ll go to the nearby city of Toronto , home to the CN Tower. At the end of the day, you’ll go to your hotel along the St. Lawrence River, where you can see the Thousand Islands .

On the last day of this trip, you’ll take a scenic cruise along the river and go through part of the Thousand Islands area. Some of the highlights here include Boldt Castle and Heart Island. Then, you’ll board the bus back to Manhattan, stopping at Woodbury Common Premium Outlet in New Jersey for shopping and dinner.

This is one of the best Niagara Falls tours from New York if you want the itinerary, accommodations, and transportation taken care of for you.

• Duration : 3 days
• Price : $460
• Highlights : Round-trip bus; Watkins Glen State Park; U.S. and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls; hotel accommodation for 2 nights; Maid of the Mist boat tour; sightseeing in Toronto; Thousand Islands cruise (May to October); outlet shopping

5. 4-Day trip from New York to Niagara Falls

If you have the time and prefer having someone else organize your itinerary, consider this 4-day package . It starts with bus transportation from NYC to Niagara Falls . Along the way, you’ll pass by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Finger Lakes region, like Watkins Glen State Park and Seneca Lake. As you enter the Niagara Falls area, you’ll see the American side of the falls, as well as Goat Island and Luna Island . After dusk, see the colorful illumination of Niagara Falls at night.

The following day, have breakfast at your hotel before visiting Horseshoe Falls from the Canadian Site . Then, enjoy an exhilarating boat ride on the Maid of the Mist during the summer, or enjoy the Journey Behind the Falls experience in the winter. Around noon, you’ll board the bus to New Jersey, where you can shop at the outlets before heading to the hotel.

4-Day trip from New York to Niagara Falls

The next leg of this Niagara Falls trip from NYC takes you to the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia . You’ll tour the historic district and Independence Mall, then walk along the Ben Franklin Parkway to see iconic sites like the Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Afterward, you’ll take a short ride to Lancaster County , home to the largest Amish community in the country. From there, you’ll go to Washington, D.C., where you’ll spend the night.

On the final day of this bus tour to Niagara Falls from NYC , you’ll explore Washington D.C.’s top attractions . See the presidential memorials, war monuments, the gorgeous Tidal Basin, and Arlington National Cemetery. Then, continue your tour by passing Capitol Hill and the White House and visiting the National Air and Space Museum. In the evening, you’ll take the bus back to NYC.

• Duration : 4 days
• Price : $765
• Highlights : Round-trip bus; Watkins Glen State Park; U.S. and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls; hotel accommodation for 3 nights; Maid of the Mist boat tour (May – October) or Journey Behind the Falls (November – April); outlet shopping; sightseeing in Philadelphia and Amish Country (with Amish buggy ride) and in Washington D.C.

6. The best 5-day tour to Niagara Falls from New York

Finally, this 5-day tour is an excellent option if you want to combine your trip to Niagara Falls from New York with several other destinations.

This adventure begins with an early bus ride from Manhattan to the scenic Finger Lakes region, stopping at Watkins Glen State Park . Then, head to the U.S. side of Niagara Falls to see the American Falls , Bridal Veil Falls , Goat Island , and Luna Island . You’ll also ride the Maid of the Mist and see the colorful lights at the falls after dark.

The next day, you’ll visit Canada’s Horseshoe Falls , the nearby village of Niagara on the Lake , and the exciting city of Toronto . On day three, you’ll get to know the Thousand Islands with a morning cruise along the St. Lawrence River. Then, board the bus and go to New Jersey, where you’ll have time for some outlet shopping .

The best 5-day tour to Niagara Falls from New York

On day four, you’ll travel to Philadelphia to see the historic area of Independence Mall and the famous attractions along the Ben Franklin Parkway. Afterward, your group will travel to Lancaster County to experience the Amish way of life. The day ends with a bus ride to Washington, D.C., where you’ll spend the night.

The last day is dedicated to Washington, D.C. , with stops at the Tidal Basin, Arlington National Cemetery, Capitol Hill, and the National Air & Space Museum. Finish your visit with some time at the Lincoln, Korea, and Vietnam Memorials before returning to NYC.

This 5-day Niagara Falls tour from New York is great if you’re short on time and want to see as much of Niagara Falls and the nearby areas as possible. However, if you have more time, consider taking a day trip from NYC to Philadelphia or to Washington, D.C. You can even combine both for one of the best road trips from NYC .

• Duration : 5 days
• Price : $790
• Highlights : Round-trip bus; Watkins Glen State Park; U.S. and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls; hotel accommodation for 4 nights; Maid of the Mist; sightseeing in Toronto; Thousand Islands cruise (May – October); outlet shopping; sightseeing in Philadelphia, Amish Country, and Washington D.C.

Price comparison for Niagara Falls tours from NYC

Check out the chart below to help you find the best Niagara Falls tour from New York . This way, you can compare each option’s prices, durations, and highlights.

You’ll notice that the longer tours are more expensive, and they go to multiple destinations besides Niagara Falls. If you only want to see the falls, you can save money on a one or two-day tour.

Is a Niagara Falls tour from NYC worth it?

If you have limited time in New York and don’t want to organize the visit on your own, then a Niagara Falls trip from NYC is worth it. A guided excursion allows you to relax and enjoy all the attractions since transportation, tickets, and accommodation are taken care of for you.

Plus, if you book one of the multi-day tours to Niagara Falls from New York , you can visit several different places in a short amount of time.

FAQs – Niagara Falls tours from New York

To finish up, here are some frequently asked questions about Niagara Falls tours from NYC :

How far is Niagara Falls from New York?

Niagara Falls is 420 miles from Manhattan. A Niagara Falls trip from NYC takes about 7 hours by bus.

How many days do you need for Niagara Falls?

I recommend dedicating at least a couple of days to a Niagara Falls trip. If you want a guide, consider a 2-day or 3-day tour to Niagara Falls from New York .

What is the best Niagara Falls tour from New York?

My top recommendations are this 2-day Niagara Falls tour and this 3-day package to Niagara Falls, Toronto, and the Thousand Islands.

How much does a Niagara Falls tour from NY cost?

The best Niagara Falls tours from New York range in price from a couple hundred dollars to over $1,000. It all depends on the length of the trip and your preferred mode of transportation.

Which side of Niagara Falls do you visit during a tour from NY?

A 1-day trip to Niagara Falls from New York only gives you enough time to see the American side of the falls. That’s why I recommend booking a 2 or 3-day tour. If you’re going all the way to Niagara Falls, you should see the whole thing!

What should I bring on a Niagara Falls trip from NYC?

You should pack comfortable clothes and walking shoes. It’s a good idea to bring layers and maybe a change of clothes in case you get wet from the falls.

Is a New York – Niagara Falls tour suitable for kids?

Yes, you can take a Niagara tour from New York with kids, but keep in mind that it’s a long trip.

Are there tours from New York to Niagara Falls in Canada?

Yes, several Niagara Falls bus tours from NYC go to the Canadian and American sides of the falls, such as this one and this one .

Are Niagara Falls tours from NYC available year-round?

Yes, Niagara Falls is open year-round, so tours are available any time of year. However, some attractions, like the Maid of the Mist, are open seasonally, so keep that in mind when booking.

That’s it from me! I hope you found a Niagara Falls tour from NYC that you’d like to take and that you enjoy this natural wonder to the fullest. There is so much to do here, so I recommend reading our visitor’s guide to Niagara Falls for more information.

If you have any questions, please leave me a comment below so I can get back to you.

Stay safe, and have a wonderful time at Niagara Falls!

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Ascen Aynat

14 replies on “ 6 Best Niagara Falls Tours from New York ”

I would like to organize a trip from nyc to Niagara Falls for about 25-30 people in the first of June 2024. I’m interested in the 3 or 4 days package, can you assist me with the particulars in making this happen?

Hey there, You have to follow the link for the 3-day tour or 4-day excursion to make a reservation with the company.

Hi , i would like to visit naigra fall , canada both . Customise me good tour package

Hi Manan, The perfect tour package for you depends on your particular interests and how much time you have available. However, a good place to start is with our visitors guide to Niagara Falls , which has recommendations on what to do and which tours to take.

To do the one day us tour only do you need your citizenship or visa

Hi Mari, Yes, you need to present your passport or visa on both sides of Niagara Falls.

Hi I need to apply for an ESTA to get to the USA. Do I need to apply for an ESTA to cross the the Niagara Falls border as well?

Hi Ayla, Yes, if you want to cross the border and go to Niagara Falls in Canada, you’ll need an ESTA.

If we are not US citizens, do we need a visa to go to the Canada side?

Hi Tony, It depends on your citizenship, but more non-U.S. citizens will need a tourist visa to visit the Canadian side.

do you need a visa to go over to the Canadian side. i need a visa to get into the US

Yes, if you’re not a U.S. citizen, you’ll need a visa to enter the country. I recommend checking out our guide on the ESTA for the United States for more info!

Do you need a passport to travel to Toronto for the tour of Canada side

Hi Gregory. Yes, you will need a passport to cross the Niagara Falls border.

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The 5 Best Niagara Falls Tours From Toronto [2024 Reviews]

Whether you’re big into waterfalls or not, you’re going to appreciate going to Niagara Falls. As one of the most majestic waterfalls in the world, they attract over a whopping 30 million visitors a year!

If you’re in Toronto, you have no excuse not to go see them as it’s a really easy driving destination as well. We’ll be honest, it’s definitely a big tourist attraction as well, but not one of the overrated ones.

We have all of the top tours of Niagara Falls from Toronto right here for you, making sure you pick ones that are actually worth your time and money.

Best Niagara Falls Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best niagara falls tours from toronto for 2024.

• Best Budget Tour: Small Group Niagara Falls Tour with Pickup and Boat From Toronto
• Best Small Group Tour: Luxury Small-Group Niagara Falls Day Trip From Toronto
• Best Evening Tour: Niagara Falls Evening Tour With Boat Cruise From Toronto
• Best Full Day Tour: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Niagara-on-the-Lake From Toronto
• Best Private Tour: Niagara Falls, Canada Private Tour From Toronto

Niagara Falls Tour Reviews

1. best budget tour: small group niagara falls tour with pickup and boat from toronto.

• Duration: 9 hours
• Departure: Pickup From most downtown Toronto hotels
• Departure Time: 7:45 to 8:20 AM (depending on pick-up location)
• Includes: T ransportation in a minibus, Niagara Parks licensed tour guide, time to experience Niagara Falls and buy tickets for optional activities like the Niagara City Cruises boat ride and more, s easonal stops at iconic landmarks including the Niagara Whirlpool, floral clock, and Queenston Heights Park

If you’re experiencing Niagara Falls for the first time, you need to do it right. You could fall into the tourist traps and not take full advantage of the beauty and fun you can have on the right tour. Not to worry though, because on the Toronto: Small Group Niagara Falls Tour with Pickup and Boat , you’re sure to have a blast!

This 9-hour tour will maximize your time with Skip-the-Line tickets so once you arrive you’ll head straight to the front without waiting. Your pickup time will be around 8 am, depending on which of the 11 pickup locations you select in downtown Toronto or Mississauga.

You’ll be picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus. Depending on the size of the group and availability, it’ll be either a 13-seat or 24-seat configuration. The journey there is quite nice, and along the way, your driver/licensed tour guide will offer interesting commentary about the area.

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They’ll also tell you all about the falls’ history, various activities you can partake in around the area, and answer any questions you may have. We appreciate how obviously knowledgeable they are, while also placing guests’ safety first.

You’ll arrive in Niagara Falls around 10 am, making the ride there pretty short. You’ll get to choose between 1-2 activities such as the Niagara City Cruises boat ride (available in the summer), Bird Kingdom, Journey Behind the Falls (highly recommended!), Skylon Tower, or Niagara Helicopters.

Another fun activity is heading to Clifton Hill village and walk around. The village has a lot of stuff to do, like their Niagara SkyWheel, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, an arcade, and much more. You can have a picnic outdoors, or enjoy one of the many restaurants in the area.

Next, head to a beautiful narrated drive across the Niagara Parkway. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos at the Niagara Whirlpool Rapids, floral clock, and much more.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy, 2. best small group tour: luxury small-group niagara falls day trip from toronto.

• Departure: Pickup from all Toronto hotels
• Departure Time: 8:00 PM
• Includes:   Full-day guided excursion with round-trip transportation from downtown Toronto, a dmission to the Niagara Hornblower Cruises boat tour

Next up, we have the Toronto: Luxury Small-Group Niagara Falls Day Trip tour . This is yet another 9-hour adventure, and is perfect if you want more personalized attention.

With small group sizes only, there’s a maximum of just 12 passengers allowed which means you’ll get to see more and ask your guide any questions you may have. Start out being picked up at your Toronto hotel, and hop on board your deluxe Mercedes-Benz Sprinter out to the falls.

This is one of the most comfortable options and is perfect for small group sizes. The vehicle is clean, air-conditioned, and comes with comfortable seats and a nice amount of leg room.

As you journey along, your guide/driver will tell you and your group all about the history of the falls and very interesting personal anecdotes as well! After a couple of hours, you’ll arrive at the falls, and be able to immediately skip the line and head directly to the boarding area.

Hop on the iconic Hornblower Niagara boat tour called “Voyage to The Falls”. This tour is exhilarating and you’re sure to never have experienced anything like it before! You’ll get to see the falls up close and personal!

Afterward, you’ll want to relax a bit so have some free time to grab some lunch or take the optional Journey Behind the Falls tour if you’re really into getting the adrenaline going! After your leisure time, travel along the breathtaking Niagara Parkway and make various stops for taking photos and stretching the legs.

You’ll make stops that simply aren’t possible to do with larger buses, such as the stop at the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake. If you’d like to participate in an optional wine tour here, make sure to let them know in advance!

3. Best Evening Tour: Niagara Falls Evening Tour With Boat Cruise From Toronto

• Duration: 9.5 hours
• Departure:  Tim Hortons Toronto, 55 York Street or Terminal 3, Toronto Pearson Airport
• Departure Time: 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM
• Includes:   Hornblower cruise “Voyage to the Falls” (or journey behind Niagara Falls or visit to the Skylon Tower when the boat is not operational), h ornblower “Firework Cruise” (if option selected)

If you’re looking to see a perspective of Niagara Falls not many get to see, you’re in the right place. The Toronto: Niagara Falls Evening Tour with Boat Cruise lasts 9.5 hours, taking you to a fantastic falls tour illuminated at night.

You’ll take some of the same tours that you would on the ones we’ve just covered, but will see them in the afternoon or dusk! Start your tour by being picked up at your hotel between 1 and 1:30 PM, which gives you more than enough time to sleep in our for other activities in the morning.

They cover not only downtown hotels in Toronto, but Toronto Pearson Airport hotels as well. The air-conditioned mini-coach is cozy but very comfortable. As you drive to Niagara, your guide will tell you all about the history of the area, and how important the natives were and still are today.

Not only that, but they’ll explain how the geography of the Niagara Peninsula is so special, which will only make you appreciate it that much more when you see it!

You’ll first arrive at Niagara Whirlpool, where you’ll witness some of the most intense white water rapids in the entire continent. Next up, head onto the Hornblower to see the Niagara Falls up close on their legendary “Voyage to The Falls” boat tour! If you thought they were impressive from a distance, this will surely surprise you!

Once you get back on land, you’ll hop on board your coach again and head down the Niagara Parkway to see it from another perspective. The gorgeous Dufferin Islands along the way are also stunning, and you’ll want to take plenty of photos.

Then, have some leisure time at the falls for dinner or the charming village of Clifton Hill.  When the sun sets, you’ll surely be mesmerized at the glorious rainbow of colors that appear around the falls!

4. Best Full Day Tour: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Niagara-on-the-Lake From Toronto

• Departure: 8:00 AM
• Departure Time: Around 8 am (varies a bit, depending on pickup location)
• Includes:   Tour by air-conditioned bus, g uide and live commentary, s topover in Niagara-on-the-Lake, u p to 3 hours of free time at Niagara Falls,  Hornblower Niagara cruise (if option selected), l uggage storage

Next, we bring you another top-rated tour: the Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Niagara-on-the-Lake. Just seeing the falls alone is an experience that could surely encompass an entire day of wonder and adventure.

However, this tour takes it a step further by showing you the lovely Niagara-on-the-Lake where you’ll get to see many other interesting attractions.

Lasting 9 hours, you’ll have plenty of time to see everything you could ever want in this area. There are multiple pickup areas in central Toronto as well as Mississauga, and pickup times are all around 8 am so make sure you’re ready with some good walking shoes and comfortable clothing!

Your ride for the day is a luxe air-conditioned mini-bus with large windows perfect for viewing the beautiful scenery outside. As you drive along, your guide will offer a fascinating educational commentary on the area, the falls specifically, and their geography and culture.

After a couple of hours of driving, you’ll arrive in Niagara-on-the-lake located along the scenic Niagara Parkway. Check out Queenston Heights, Brock’s Monument, and take a good look at the hydroelectric power station, violent Whirlpool Rapids, and the Floral Clock.

You’ll then get to the main attraction: the Niagara Falls. Here, you’ll have approximately 3 hours of free time where you can choose how you spend it. Participants typically like to take the Hornblower Niagara Cruise “Voyage to the Falls” where you’ll get to see the falls up close.

The Journey Behind the Falls takes things a step further, and the Skylon Tower is available during the winter months when the others are not.

With so much excitement going on, this is a great time to take a moment for a delicious lunch at one of the array of restaurants available in the area. You have everything from fast food to fine dining sit-down restaurants.

5. Best Private Tour: Private Tour of Niagara Falls From Toronto

• Duration: 8 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Departure Time: Varies depending on option selected
• Includes:  D river/guide,  p rivate customized VIP tour by Lincoln Town Car, Hornblower Boat Cruise (substituted for Skylon Tower or Journey Behind the Falls when boat is not operating ),  Canadian Horseshoe & American Falls, h elicopter tour (optional); discounted tickets available , c omplimentary snacks, bottled water

No guide to Niagara Falls would be complete without the From Toronto: Niagara Falls, Canada Private Tour ! This one is just a bit shorter than the others, clocking in at 8 hours long.

Ideal for smaller groups, you’ll have personalized attention from your knowledgeable driver who will answer any questions you may have while on your tour.

You will be picked up at your hotel in style. No tour buses or mini-buses this time! Nope, you’ll be personally guided to your sightseeing tour with a Lincoln Town Car!

This offers a bit more of a personal touch, while keeping it comfortable and convenient. There are many places you are able to see in a town car that wouldn’t be possible in a larger vehicle.

Once you arrive to Niagara Falls, you’ll stop wherever you feel like to take photos. If planned ahead of time, your guide will even help you make a customized itinerary based off of what you and your group want to see!

You can also opt to have your guide choose where to stop based on their recommendations, stopping at all the major sights. They do offer a full educational commentary, along with interesting personal stories!

You’ll choose from various optional activities and tours throughout the day, such as: the Hornblower Boat Cruise, Canadian Horseshoe Falls & American Falls, seeing the Whirlpool Rapids and Niagara Cable Car, town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, and even a free wine tasting!

Oh, and for those fearless adventure-seekers, you can even choose to try the Helicopter Tour over the Falls!

FAQs About Day Trips to Niagara Falls

Can you visit niagara falls from toronto in one day.

You can definitely do a trip Niagara Falls in a day. The drive is about two hours and there are also several bus and tour options available if you don’t have your own transportation. See our favorites above!There are plenty of things to do to keep you busy and entertained.

Obviously the main reason for going is to see the falls and you can get up close in a variety of ways. Take a ride on the famous Maid of the Mist boat which will take you right into the misty spray of the Horseshoe Falls or you walk along the Niagara Parkway to get a different perspective of the falls from various lookout points.

Visit the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory to see hundreds of colorful butterflies up close or take a thrilling ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car which offers breathtaking views of the Niagara River.

A visit to the Niagara Falls History Museum is worth a visir. You can learn about the geological formation of the falls and the various legends and stories associated with them.

No visit to the Falls would be complete without trying some of the famous local cuisine. From classic Canadian poutine to fresh seafood and locally-sourced wines there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.

While it may be a long day trip, visiting Niagara Falls from Toronto is doable!

5 Reasons Why You Should Take a Day Trip to Niagara Falls

• Natural beauty : Niagara Falls is one of the most amazing natural wonders. The power of the falls is amazing and seeing it in person is an experience you shouldn’t miss!
• Adventure : There are many ways to experience Niagara Falls that will get your adrenaline pumping. Take a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat , zip line over the falls or try your hand at the Whirlpool Adventure Course which is an aerial obstacle course that will get your heart pumping!
• Culture and history : There is a lot of history in the Niagara Falls area! Check out the Niagara Falls History Museum or take a tour of the Old Fort Erie . It’s one of the oldest military forts in Ontario.
• Family-friendly : Niagara Falls is a great destination for families. There are plenty of attractions and activities for your kids. Such as the Niagara SkyWheel , the Great Canadian Midway and the Butterfly Conservatory.
• Local cuisine : Niagara Falls is known for its local cuisine. You can try classic Canadian dishes like poutine and butter tarts or fresh seafood and locally-sourced wines. You will most likely find something to satisfy you. And the view of the falls from many of the area’s restaurants can’t be beat!

What is There to See in Niagara Falls Other Than the falls?

There are plenty of other things to see and do that Niagara Falls an unforgettable visit. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Niagara Falls.

One must-visit attraction is the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. This 99-acre garden has over 2,400 roses, a butterfly conservatory along with a collection of rare and exotic plants from around the world. The gardens will give you a break from the tourists.

If you are into history, the Niagara Falls History Museum is worth seeing. You will learn about the fascinating history of the area, from the geological formation of the falls to the people that originally lived here.

For some adventure go to the Whirlpool Adventure Course. It’s an aerial obstacle course that has ziplines, suspension bridges and other challenges. For something truly unique, take a helicopter tour of the falls for a bird’s-eye view of the falls!

Tour Guides

The Small Group Niagara Falls Tour with Pickup and Boat Tour is our Editors Choice for the best Niagara Falls tour from Toronto

Robert Baker

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Niagara Falls Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 68 most popular niagara falls trips. compare tour itineraries from 29 tour companies. 291 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating., popular niagara falls tours.

Eastern Explorer

Mackinac Island featuring Niagara Falls

• Travel through time and flash back to the Roaring 20’s and historical architecture
• Your guide tells of a legacy of innovative automobiles, how it all began, and the man behind it all ~ Henry Ford. A man who built his legacy from the ground up in Dearborn, MI
• Experience a bit of German architecture, shops and restaurants right in Michigan’s Little Bavaria. Willkommen to Frankenmuth, where you will see a simpler way of life, and where it’s Christmas all year long
• What do horse and carriages, family owned businesses and a Revolutionary Fort all have in common? They can all be found in 3.8 square miles of history on Mackinac Island, the island that time has forgotten. Enjoy this place that is still steeped in the 18th and 19th century ways
• Get up close and personal on the Canadian side of roaring Niagara Falls

Canadian Contrasts

Small Group Niagara Falls Classic Helicopter Tour

Canadian Rockies and Pacific Coast

• Discover the majesty of Canada's great outdoors, travelling between Vancouver and Calgary
• Walk trails in Banff and Jasper National Parks and look for grizzly and black bear
• Explore the wildly beautiful Vancouver Island and the Pacific Coast

Niagara Falls Experience 2D/1N (from New York)

• Enjoy nature in the beautiful Finger Lakes Region Discover the amazing Niagara Falls from above and below Bargain hunt for American brands at a large outlet mall

Eastern Explorer - 2025

Canadian Highlights

All Niagara Falls , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Niagara Falls

Small Group Niagara Falls Tours

The Shaw Festival: Extraordinary Theater and Nature in Niagara

• Enjoy private pre-show introductions to each play and post-show chats with cast members
• Complement your in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at the Shaw Festival with orchestra seats to three performances
• Experience more than 2,000 free-flying butterflies in a lush, rainforest setting, then walk the footpaths of the Botanical Gardens and one of Canada’s finest collections of ornamental trees, shrubs and roses

The Gifts of Niagara: From the Falls to the Underground Railroad

• Take an expert-led boat ride on the Maid of the Mist
• Observe scenic sites on both sides of the U
• -Canada border with insights into the geology, hydropower and Native American heritage of the area
• Field trips provide encounters with the beautiful region’s variety and a sampling of rural life and scenic farm vistas

Adventures in Toronto & Niagara Falls With your Grandchild

• Walking is the best way to get to know a new place
• I’m energetic and enjoy a good physical challenge, so I’m always ready to spend the day on the move
• Whether it’s public transit, city streets or village cobblestones, I’m game

• I’m comfortable with some walking throughout the day
• I expect to get on and off of a coach, and I’m ready to stroll through cities and to stand for a few hours when we’re learning in museums

Voyage to All Five Great Lakes: A Small Ship Adventure

Deck the Falls: The Holiday Season in Niagara Falls

New York To Niagara Falls Mini

• Enjoy Drive through the Delaware Water Gap
• Visit the stunning Finger Lakes town of Seneca Falls
• See Niagara Falls & Enjoy the Maid of the Mist cruise
• Visit Woodbury Common Outlet Mall

Best Niagara Falls Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best Niagara Falls Tours by Price

Top Niagara Falls Attractions

• Watching the thundering falls and feeling the intense spray and mist coming off of them
• Braving a day cruise to get up close
• Learning about all the daredevils who have performed feats of bravery at the falls, such as tightrope walking across
• Taking advantage of the location to visit both Toronto, Canada and New York

Niagara Falls Tours & Travel

Niagara Falls Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Trip reviews, the trip itself was amazing.

The trip itself was amazing! The Venus were interesting and beautiful. The food was delicious (especially the buffet at The Grand on Mackinac Island). We enjoyed get...

It was a great trip

It was a great trip with a great group. The food and accommodations were very nice. Our bus broke down at one point but our guide and driver handled it as quickly an...

A fantastic country with a wide variety of scenery, temperatures and wildlife. Take plenty of layers, from thick jackets to swimming gear. Our guide Sean was great, ...

Trusted Customer

Guide was exceptional. However, we thought that her having to drive as well as guide was too much to expect from one person although she coped very well.. Although ...

Everything about this trip is good. The itinerary is imaginative and comprehensive and includes places that are off the usual tourist trail. It includes some of the...

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• Is the Hornblower Worth It? A Real Review of the Hornblower, a Niagara Falls Boat Tour

• Andy Peterson
• No Comments
• April 24, 2021

A couple of years ago, our family decided to take a trip on the Hornblower at Niagara Falls, for a close-up look at the Falls. You may have known it as the Maid of the Mist in years past, who used to tour the falls, but Hornblower was awarded the new 500 million dollar contract in 2014 and continues to bring you the Falls experience.

The Hornblower is a 700-passenger catamaran that will take you as close to the falls as you possibly can, with laughs, screams, and cheers from everyone on board. The 700-passenger catamaran is great for seeing the Falls with a multi-tiered 360-degree viewing platform.

Some History of the Hornblower

In 1980, Terry MacRae, the CEO, and owner purchased Hornblower Coach Cruises based in Berkeley, California. The company at that time only had 2 yachts and focused more on private tours.

In 1992, the company rebranded to Hornblower Cruises & Events, which focused more on the total services that they offered. As of 2015, they have more than 32 vessels across California, New York, and most recently in Niagara Falls, Ontario for Hornblower Niagara Cruises.

I was excited to take the tour, but not everyone in my family was eager for the trip. My 8-year-old daughter was a little nervous about the whole idea of getting into a boat and riding toward the falls; her first thought was, why would anyone want to go toward the falls? Shouldn’t we be trying to get away from them? But after the trip, she was glad that she was able to be a part of it.

This article is my full review of the Hornblower tours, and what you can expect if you decide to see Niagara Falls from its perspective.

It’s A Long Wait

The hardest part of the whole experience is the overwhelmingly long wait to actually get onto the Hornblower.

It was nice that we had some snacks with us because we must have waited for at least an hour before we got on the boat.

Even though the wait was long, the whole experience was organized and well laid out.

At first, we kept thinking that we’d wait for a later time, and maybe the line would thin out – it never did and never did. It was terribly busy, and that’s just something that you’re going to have to accept.

This may be a spoiler alert, but I do believe it’s worth the wait.

Bring some snacks, a hat for shade, use sun block and bring some water with you so that you can survive the wait.

Hornblower Pricing

The price for the Hornblower tour is as follows:

It’s pricey, and I was hesitant to purchase the tickets for our family of 5, but in the end, I am glad that I decided to do it.

The Hornblower Niagara Falls Tour is going to last 15-20 minutes. It’s expensive for a 20-minute tour, but what’s not overpriced in Niagara Falls?

Consider how much money they are making with this tour. No wonder they signed a 500 million dollar contract. My guess, they are making around $10,000 for every 20 minute tour – and they are running two vessels.

Boarding the Hornblower

We waited for about 60 minutes, and they were allowed to board. It was well-organized and the directions were clear. We quickly rushed to the best spot available and waited for the boat to start.

Once you get on the Hornblower, it’s a very tight fit. You’re almost shoulder to shoulder with the other passengers. I made sure my kids were close because there is a little commotion when things start to move.

As the Hornblower get closer to the Falls, it starts to get wet.

You get a red poncho, which doesn’t help a whole lot, but it does keep you from being absolutely soaked. You’ll have to accept the fact that you’re going to get wet. I was soaked when I left the Hornblower, but I couldn’t stop smiling.

Beside the Falls

The experience that we had on the Hornblower will never be forgotten. It was so much fun, and it was an incredible sight to behold.

The roar and splash from the falls, combined with the pure enjoyment of being up so close to the Falls, make the Hornblower a breathtaking, amazing experience. It was so cool to be that close to the water crashing down – it’s a wow factor, for sure.

You tried to talk, but it couldn’t be heard from all the laughing, and the fears that my children had about riding the Hornblower was replaced with laughing and smiling.

Overall, it was a really good tour, and an unbelievable experience.

The Hornblower isn’t a cheap trip, that’s for sure. You’re looking at spending over $100 for a family of 5.

Is it worth the money? Absolutely. If you have the opportunity to take the tour, then I would do it. In fact, if I had the opportunity to retake the tour, I would do it.

Overall, It’s a great way to experience the Falls up close, and the excitement of feeling so close to the Falls that you could reach out and touch them is a cool perspective.

Learn more about taking a tour on the Hornblower here .

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Maid Of The Mist

Updated a few days ago

Review Highlights

“ This is a boat tour of the Niagara Falls that's mostly on the American side but it goes into the Canadian side. ” in 150 reviews

“ Yea you will get wet so dress accordingly- They do give ponchos but the power of the mist is something else. ” in 110 reviews

“ This is the traditional boat tour that goes to the American Falls and the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side . ” in 56 reviews

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Location & Hours

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Prospect Point

Niagara Falls State Park

Niagara Falls, NY 14303

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For the most up-to-date schedule and to purchase tickets, visit our website. Ticket price: $28.25 Boats depart daily from Niagara Falls State Park at Prospect Point, Niagara Falls, NY. The 20-minute tour takes passengers in from of the American Falls and into the basin of the Horseshoe Falls. No reservation is required. Souvenir poncho included. Share your #maidofthemist adventure. …

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How long is the Maid of the Mist boat tour?

Once you are actually on the boat, approximately 30 minutes!

Does it operate in the rain?

Good question - my wife and I were there on a hot summer day, and it wasn't raining, but, I would think what difference would it make? The water from the falls would be more than just a rainfall!!

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554 reviews

OMG, we had a ball on the boat tour of Niagra Falls. However, we visited on a hot and humid Sunday, and it was jam-packed. We waited in the humidity for an hour and half to get on the boat. However, the wait is worth it and it didn't disappoint. We were in the front of line when we started boarding, so we were able to secure a spot by the rail. lol The falls were gorgeous and the water felt amazing since the weather was so hot. This attraction is very affordable and exciting. I went years ago on the Canadian side, so I knew what to expect. My excitement was just the same as the first time I went. Dress comfortable and wear stuff you don't mind getting wet because you will get wet.

Always the best memories made here while being encased in plastic rain gear and smushed together like cattle to cram into the boat. The ride and the views are obviously second to none it is a wonder of the world in fact but the comfort or lack there of still smushing thru lines getting right on top of people and in many cases tourists who do not understand English in which that them has us moving past them (where they get mad) or people yelling at them to move in and move down...it gives I don't know rude vibes? Pretty still and an iconic trip however next trip I think I will just do the free observation deck for our family of 5.

This is all it's cracked up to be. You will get soaked. And there's few pet peeves higher than wet socks in my book. There's literally no safe place on either deck of the boat once they get to the mist. But it's a fun time. It's the safest way to enjoy nature in one of its most dangerous forms. Imagine being caught in that waterfall in a kayak? Forget it. I'm glad I knocked this one off my bucket list. It's an experience I'll remember for the rest of my life. And I was fortunate enough to share the experience with the love of my life as well. Thanks for the memories...

I spent yesterday playing tourist/tour guide in Niagara Falls. First tourist because I never tire going there. Then tour guide since I had family in from out of town, 2 who had never been to the Falls. We had fun all day exploring, checking out Goat Island, and finally finishing the day with a ride of the Maid of the Mist. To me, this is an absolute must do when visiting here. You can see the beautiful of the falls from many different spots both on the US and Canadian side, but this gives you a totally different view. This is where you can actually 'feel' the power of the falls. An absolute indescribable experience! Please don't miss this on your next visit to the falls. Or if you've already done it, do it again! Plus going with someone who hasn't been before is magical seeing the looks of wonderment and smiles on their faces. Can you tell I'm a fan? 2024-58

See all photos from Linda M. for Maid Of The Mist

I would sum it up as an expensive experience that was kinda overrated and short, but it is worth experiencing at least once. The winds are strong enough to blow your poncho right off, so be sure to hang on tight! You also get access to the observation deck way high up afterwards which is pretty cool too. It's a cash grab of course but one worth doing at least once if you're visiting for the first time.

See all photos from Justin F. for Maid Of The Mist

Obviously a must go when you go to Niagara... Tips: make sure you wear short pants or a dress. Bring a small bag/purse or nothing at all. You need both arms free. One for the camera and one to hold on. It is very choppy. Sandals or shoes that can get soaked, because you will be. No matter how well you wear the poncho you will be soaked. It's totally worth it. I wear glasses so it makes it harder to see, the wind and pouring water are so hard but you still see it all! You always see a rainbow so make sure you keep your camera. Have fun!

Amazing boat tour to view the Niagara Falls up close! The boats were spacious for the number of people, and they were able to get us close to view (and feel!) the falls up close! Definitely a must go experience for any tourist in the area. They have a pretty good system setup, with many guides and clear instructions. They also provide you with ponchos so don't bother packing your own. Depending on where you are on the boat, your shoes might still get wet though! You can buy the tickets online, but it's still the same line to exchange the online tickets for the physical tickets required, so I would say to not bother. We had some technical difficulties with the bridge when boarding the ship, but they were able to resolve that fairly quickly. The staff was very nice, and maneuvered the boat into the shade while waiting for the next boat to leave the dock - definitely a nice touch! Would highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't visited before!

My first time seeing the falls and the Maid of The Mist came highly recommended to do! The boys leave every 15 minutes, reasonably priced, and an amazing view of the falls! You can't go wrong !!!! You be disappointed if you come all of this way and don't see it through! The memories are unforgettable and it's a super great time! PRO TIP: Wear your poncho or you will regret it lol!!!!

Great experience!! Quick boat ride but what a beautiful view. Also the staff for the boat was extremely friendly which made the experience more enjoyable.

Absolutely fantastic! I recommend purchasing tickets online prior to arrival as it will save you money and allow you to access the boat quickly. All the staff was super friendly and helpful. The boat seemed clean and the line moved quickly. The boat gets right into the mist and I'm so happy to share the same memories with my children that I experienced as a small child. Worth every penny! Highly recommend!!

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