8 Fun Ways to See Niagara Falls
Eight Fun Ways to See Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most beloved natural wonders. The waterfalls on both the American and Canadian sides are the star attraction here, and there are so many exciting ways to see them on your next escorted bus tour to Niagara Falls.
Directly at the falls or away from them, visitors will find exciting and incredible views that are simply inspiring. We are listing eight of the best ways to enjoy Niagara Falls and the surrounding area.
The Old Maid
The most popular way to see the falls is to take a boat ride on the legendary Maid of the Mist which has been cruising the falls since 1846. The “Maid” makes its way through the turbulent current toward the defining thunder of Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side of the border. Because the “Maid” doesn’t dock in Ontario, you don’t need a passport! A highlight is the deafening roar of 600,000 plus gallons per second of falling water - and of course, getting wet with the drenching spray of the mist! Nothing gives you the sense of the power of all that water than being below it. Being up close, in front of the falls, is as riveting as it is majestic and cannot be experienced anywhere else.
Feel the Falls
To see the intensity of Bridal Falls, and to experience them from below, head to the Cave of the Winds. Here you will experience the intensity of the falls firsthand where you will not only see them, but you will feel them! With the mist all around, the adventure begins by taking an elevator 175 feet down into Niagara Gorge. Stroll along wooden walkways that weave in and out of the falls, providing picture-perfect views. Watch water cascade over boulders, as you head to Hurricane Deck, located 20 feet from Bridal Falls. Prepare to get wet and be exhilarated by one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world.
Behind the Scenes
If you are looking for a distinct experience when visiting Niagara Falls, then, go behind the scenes! Did you know you can take a Journey Behind the Falls? Take an elevator 125 feet down the falls to an observation deck for picture-perfect views. Afterward, explore several cave entrances to see Niagara’s water thundering down right before your eyes. This is a self-guided walk through tunnels that are 130 years old. They offer an unusual and easy way to experience Niagara Falls from a totally different perspective. The amount of water that crashes into the river below is one-fifth of the entire world’s freshwater!
Take the SkyWheel for a Bird’s-Eye View
For a breathtaking panoramic view like no other, head to Ontario, Canada for a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel. Perched atop Clifton Hill, climate-controlled gondolas soar 175 feet above the falls. From the SkyWheel, you will have spectacular views of the Horseshoe and American Falls, the Niagara River, and other local landmarks for miles in every direction. An evening ride is a highlight with city lights and the illuminated falls that add a touch of magic to the evening landscape.
Cross the Border in a Cable Car
If you have ever wondered what a whirlpool looks like from above, don’t miss the ride in the Whirlpool Aero Car. Passengers glide 220 feet above the Niagara River over spectacular whirlpools in a 1916 cable car. Shared by both New York state and Ontario, the ride allows visitors to cross the international border four times - without a passport! This aerial ride gives sight-seers the opportunity to see Niagara Falls and whirlpools in all of their glory from every angle.
Round and Round
For dining with a view head to the Skylon Tower, the tallest entertainment complex located in the heart of Ontario. Ride the glass-enclosed “yellow bug” elevators up 763 feet to indoor and outdoor observation decks that offer panoramic views. Afterward, enjoy award-winning continental cuisine in the Skylon Tower’s revolving dining room that offers 80-mile views in all directions. It is so relaxing to enjoy Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls as you silently revolve 360 degrees once each hour.
Walk the Boardwalk
On this easy quarter-of-a-mile walk along the roaring Niagara River, visitors will see some of the wildest rapids in North America. Along the way, there are unforgettable views of crashing waves, raging rapids, swirling whirlpools, and the 410 million-year-old rock layers of the Niagara Gorge. Branching off the boardwalk there are several viewing platforms that allow you to get closer to these breathtaking whirlpools. Because there is no mist here, these platforms offer some of the best places for photos.
Take A Hike
For a change of pace, head to the Niagara Glen Nature Center which offers trails to Niagara Gorge. Along the way, walk through a Carolinian Forest that supports the most productive and endangered assortment of plant species in Canada. A highlight is the carved rock formations of Niagara Glen which represent thousands of years of geological history.
There are countless reasons to visit Niagara Falls. The waterfalls are spectacular, the whirlpools and rapids are breathtaking, and the beauty of the region is stunning. It is a place to refresh your appreciation for the vast power of water as it thunders through this gorgeous landscape.
