niagara fall boat cruise

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• https://www.niagaraparks.com/visit/attractions/hornblower-niagara-cruises/

Niagara City Cruises

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Discover the story of Niagara Parks and all of the must-see Canadian experiences found along its 56-kilometre parkway with our digital visitor guide!

An Unforgettable Experience

Plan your visit with ease and convenience! Take advantage of timed ticketing options to make the most of your time in Niagara Falls.

On board, keep dry from the mist with a complimentary recyclable poncho and discover the incredible story of the falls with audio commentary.

Save up to 55% on Niagara's most popular attractions

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All prices are in Canadian Dollars and do not include applicable tax (13% HST).

5920 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8

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Get on board for an electric experience

Maid of the mist boat tours.

Step aboard the iconic all-electric Maid of the Mist — the original Niagara Falls boat tour — and turn your trip to Niagara Falls, USA, into an experience you won’t soon forget. Watch the video

Plan your next great adventure

Maid of the Mist opens on Thursday, April 4 and runs through the first Sunday in November.

Look through the mist

See a live view from the heart of Niagara Falls. Launch webcam

Get the total Niagara Falls experience

Hear the roar of 600,000 gallons of water crashing down around you every second. Feel the mist as it drenches everything in its path. Our all-electric boats provide a quiet, smooth ride—so you can focus on the sheer might of Mother Nature.

Learn about group tours

A Maid of the Mist boat tour is perfect for groups of all sizes.Whether you’re a tour operator or a group leader,learn more about our group rates and give your guests an unforgettable experience.

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Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour – Niagara

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Complete Niagara Falls Tour: Boat Ride & Journey Behind the Falls Walks - City Tours

More tickets from walks - city tours, niagara underground: power station & tunnel under the falls tour, walks - city tours.

The Ultimate Niagara Falls Boat Tour

The best falls up close cruise and the only one of it's kind, cruise currently unavaiable. please check back soon.

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• Book through Niagara Ultimate Cruises and come see the thundering falls right up close aboard the 142 passenger cruise vessel.
• Our 2pm cruise is a one-of-a-kind exclusive that provides an up close and personal experience with the mighty Falls.
• Tickets can be purchased online ONLY, 24 hours a day all year. Please Contact Us if you have additional questions.
• The daytime cruise is at 2pm in season. Please see our TICKETS page for specific dates that are available.
• Please arrive at least 1 hour before departure time . You can enjoy food, beverages and live entertainment before boarding the cruise vessel!
• Visit our Frequently Asked Questions section for answers to other common questions. We are always happy to hear from our guests and respond to questions quickly.

Incredible Niagara Falls Boat Tour!

The Niagara Ultimate Cruise is the only one of it’s kind to ever sail in the Niagara Gorge. This 142 passenger vessel is available for an intimate, up close and personal experience with the thundering Falls. There really is nothing like it!

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Come and see the thundering falls right up close with niagara ultimate cruises. experience the power and fury of canada's most iconic tourism attraction that has left millions of global visitors wonderstruck . of all the enjoyable things to do in niagara falls canada, this is the one that will deliver an amazing memory for you and your friends or family to cherish forever. seats are extremely limited. you must   book online to reserve., 142 passenger vessel, wheelchair accessible, onboard safety belts.

Riverside Patio

Enjoy food, drinks and live  entertainment  on the f ully licensed Riverside Patio just  steps  from  the Landing.

Niagara Falls Attractions!

Sure, the niagara ultimate cruise is amongst the most exciting things to experience while you visit niagara falls but there really is something for everyone to enjoy in our incredible city and surrounding area all year round..

The Niagara Region has some of the most outstanding options for every type of golfer, READ MORE

Marine Shows

FAMILY FUN! Enjoy amazing performances by Dolphins Beluga Whales, Sea Lions and Walruses. READ MORE

There are literally hundreds of great places to wine and dine in Niagara Falls Canada all year long. READ MORE

The Niagara Region is on the world stage of top selling fine wines and is visited by millions of people. READ MORE

Well, need we say more? This is just plain fun! The Casinos are known worldwide for their excitement. READ MORE

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Another must visit is the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake which has a long and rich history. READ MORE

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Voyage To The Falls Boat Tour Niagara Falls, ON, Canada Book In Advance

Falls Fireworks Cruise Boarding Time 9:15 pm, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada Likely to sell out

Niagara Falls Whirlpool Freedom Jet Dry Tour (Stay Dry While Experiencing An Exciting Ride) Book In Advance

Niagara Falls Whirlpool Wet Jet Tour (An Exciting Ride Down the Niagara River Rapids) Book In Advance

Get ready to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls. Look no further than Voyage to the Falls Boat Cruises and Jet Boat Tours for an unforgettable adventure.

With Voyage to the Falls Boat Cruises, you can marvel at the grandeur of the falls up close and personal. Enjoy a leisurely cruise as you witness the thundering cascade of water, feeling the mist on your face and being captivated by its sheer power.

If you're seeking a more heart-pounding experience, hop aboard a Jet Boat Tour and prepare for an adrenaline rush like no other. As you are ready to navigate through the thrilling Niagara Rapids, feeling the exhilaration as your skilled captain skillfully maneuvers through the raging waters.

Whether you choose the serenity of a boat cruise or the excitement of a jet boat tour, one thing is for certain - your visit to Niagara Falls will be an unforgettable experience.

So, don't miss out on the chance to witness the natural wonder of Niagara Falls in the most exhilarating and unique ways possible.

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As of Apr 16, 2024, proof of COVID-19 vaccination with photo ID is required for restaurants and bars, casinos, concerts, theatres, cinemas, recreation and sporting facilities, festivals and more. Capacity limits for indoor and outdoor activities are based on maintaining a physical distance of 2m/6ft from others. Please follow all public health guidelines to stop the spread of COVID-19.

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Niagara Falls Sightseeing Tours Canada

Niagara Falls, which is more than 10,000 years old has been one of the top vacation destinations for several decades. It is not without reason thousands of people visit the Niagara Falls every year. This giant fall attracts tourists from across the globe. If you are planning your vacation and looking for vacation destination ideas, Niagara Falls tours should be on top of your list. Every human alive on this planet should visit the majestic falls at least once in his or her lifetime. If you have not made it to the Niagara Falls yet, it is time that you do not miss your chance this time.

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NIAGARA FALLS DAY PRIVATE TOURS

Planning your niagara falls tour.

Given the fact that Niagara Falls Tour is no ordinary choice, you certainly need to make the most out of your tour. If there is one thing that will make a difference to your Niagara Falls Tours, it is going to be planning. Yes, careful planning is essential if you want to ensure that every minute of your tour is utilized properly. You could do so many things ranging from adventure activities to relaxing sightseeing tours. However, without proper planning, it may not be possible for you to get the best out of your tour. While planning it is always useful to get help from a local tour operator because they know the best. As an experienced tour operator, serving thousands of Niagara Falls Tours Canada tourists, we can make your vacation too the most enjoyable one.

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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 (below) include a boat ride and access to other attractions.

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

Price: Adults from CA$32.75 (about $24); kids from CA$22.75 (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 (that you can keep), 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. Tickets start at CA$32.75 (about $24) for adults and CA$22.75 (approximately $17) for children ages 3 to 12. The ride is free (though not recommended) for children 2 and younger.

View & Book Tickets: Niagara City Cruises

Maid of the Mist (U.S.)

Price: Adults from $28.25; kids from $16.50 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. Tickets cost approximately $28.25 for adults and $16.50 for children 6 to 12; children 5 and younger ride for free.

View & Book Tickets: Maid of the Mist

Niagara Falls Helicopter Tours

Niagara Helicopters – Classic Tour (Canada)

Price: Adults from CA$180 (about $133); kids from CA$110 (about $89) 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. Tickets start at CA$180 (about $133) for adults and CA$110 (about $89) for kids ages 3 to 11. 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.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

National Helicopters – Niagara Grand Tour (Canada)

Price: From $215 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.

Tickets range from $215 to $280 per person, depending on the number of people in your group. 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. 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.

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

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Best Niagara Falls Combination Tours

Gray Line – Niagara Falls Evening Illumination Tour (Canada)

Price: Adults from $130; kids from $100 Duration: 4.5 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, which runs May through October, costs approximately $130 for adults and approximately $100 for children ages 5 to 12. Kids 4 and younger can join for free. Tours depart at 5:30 p.m.

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.

Tickets start at $209.95 per adult and $154.95 for children ages 5 to 12. 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.

See Sight Tours – Day and Night Tour of Niagara Falls (Canada)

Price: Adults from $265; kids from $155 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 3 p.m.

Tickets, which include a three-course dinner at Table Rock House Restaurant and round-trip transportation from Ontario hotels, start at $265 for adults 13 and older, $155 for kids ages 5 to 12 and $30 for children 4 and younger. Recent tourgoers say they can't recommend this experience enough, noting that the dinner is exceptionally tasty.

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 $115.99; kids from $89.99 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.

Tickets for this four- to five-hour tour start at $115.99 per adult and $89.99 per child ages 5 to 12. 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$74.95 (about $55) or $64.95; 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. For the Ontario tour, the cost is CA$74.95 (about $55) per adult and CA$44.95 (about $33) for children ages 6 to 12. For departures from New York, tickets cost $64.95 per adult and $39.95 per child. 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 CA$17.50 (about $11.50); kids from CA$11.50 (about $8.50) 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 early November. Admission is CA$17.50 (about $13) for adults 13 and older and CA$11.50 (roughly $8.50) for kids between 3 and 12 years old. Tours begin at 10 a.m. every day except Wednesday, when the attraction opens at noon; closing time is 5, 6 or 7 p.m., depending on the day of the week.

View & Book Tickets: Whirlpool Aero Car

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 NYC
• The Most Famous Landmarks in the World

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Niagara Falls

Falls fireworks cruise (may 17 to november 30).

• 40-Minute Falls Fireworks Cruise Up Close
• Views of the Niagara Falls Fireworks
• Complimentary Recyclable Mist
• Poncho On-board
• Music Licensed Riverside Patio with Food & Drinks for Purchase

HORNBLOWER BOAT CRUISE -THE SKY LIGHTS UP WITH FIREWORKS!

Niagara Falls Fireworks Cruise - Book Online Today - $45.25 per Adult ticket (Limited Seating)

On certain special Niagara Falls evenings the sky erupts in dazzling displays of fireworks. The best way to see the fireworks is onboard the Hornblower Boat Cruise. These state-of the-art 700-passenger Catamaran boats get up close and personal to the magnificent Niagara Falls where you can experience the power and beauty of Niagara Falls and watch the mesmerizing, thunderous light show above.

This once per evening 40-minute Niagara Falls Fireworks Cruise departs at 9:30 PM in the summer months and will take you up the Niagara River on the Canadian side in style, with music and an onboard licensed bar where you order local craft beer and wines. Relax and enjoy your trip past the American and Bridal Veil Falls and upto the base of the enormous Canadian Horseshoe Falls, which is also lit up in the evening.

This tour is a Light Mist experience with safe viewing of the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls and Canadian Horseshoe Falls!

This tour is fully handicap and stroller accessible. This is a Light Mist tour(which is less intense than the Full Mist tour) and you will be provided a complimentary Mist Poncho to help keep you dry.

Please Note: ALL Evening Cruise tickets have limited seating. Tickets for Evening cruises are NON Refundable. Rescheduling or modifying your booking is not permitted once tickets are administered

2024 Opening Date: May 17, 2023, at 9:30 PM (Weather dependent)

Falls fireworks cruise schedule:.

*Timed ticketing in effect. **Schedule subject to change without prior notice. The schedule was updated on March 12, 2024.

LEAVE A COMMENT Rating*

Pickup information, where to meet.

All boarding is located at the Lower Landing in the Great Gorge. The ramp/elevator entrance to the lower landing and boarding area is located at the Niagara City Cruises Main Ticket Plaza, 5920 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8 (look for the large white sails next to the Zipline to the Falls Tower).

Cancellation & Refund Policy

• Falls Illumination Cruise (Evening): All sales are final. Not for exchange, resale or transfer.
• All passengers, including children under the age of 5, are required to have a ticket to gain entry to the boat.
• Hornblower reserves the right at any time to cancel tours, change departure & arrival times.
• Only cancelled tours are subject to refund, less any service charge, with no further amount than the face value of the ticket available for compensation.
• Please arrive in the designated boarding area at least 20 minutes before departure.
• All passengers and carry-on items are subject to search.
• Restricted and dangerous articles may not be brought on board. If you buy a ticket, you consent to have your image or likeness appear in any live or recorded video or other transmission or reproduction. Submitting an order in person, via telephone, online or via fax indicates your agreement to these terms and conditions. Niagara Falls Tour and Hornblower is not associated with the fireworks show and cannot guarantee the show will occur, nor the timing/length of the show. Niagara Falls Tour is a ticketing agent for Hornblower Niagara Cruises.

ToNiagara is an online ticketing agent providing tickets for the Hornblower Cruise. All sales and departure dates are FINAL for all Hornblower Boat Cruises (Voyage to the Falls, Illumination, and Fireworks Cruises).

Other Information

Essential info.

• Gates in the Main Ticket Plaza close at 9:15 pm sharp. Late arrivals will not be permitted. ToNiagara is not responsible for late arrivals or missed cruises.
• The Falls Fireworks Cruise is a Light-Mist experience; however, guests may still get wet depending on the wind direction.
• Complimentary Recyclable Mist Poncho included.
• When travelling to Niagara in the Spring (April to mid-June) and Fall (September to November), light jackets, sweaters, rain jackets, and running shoes are great.
• During the Summer months (mid-June to August), a comfortable pair of walking shoes is highly recommended. Light jackets for the evening are also encouraged as temperatures are generally 5 - 10 degrees cooler by the water.
• Please also consider dressing according to the current weather conditions to ensure a comfortable experience.
• Please note ToNiagara is not responsible for the fireworks display and cannot be held liable in the event the fireworks display is cancelled or delayed shortened for any reason.

• CA$37.75 Book This Tour

• National NF Tour Corporation
• [email protected]
• P: +1 800-653-2242
• 5 Brisdale Dr, Suite 208 Brampton, ON L7A 0S9, Canada

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Niagara Falls New York vs Canada - Things to Do on Each Side of the Falls

O ne of the seven natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls is likely on the bucket list of most families . Regardless of whether you spend time exploring Niagara Falls from Niagara Falls NY or Niagara Falls, Ontario it’s still incredibly impressive.

But families planning a visit to Niagara Falls might wonder: Is it better to explore Niagara Falls New York vs Canada or the other way around?

We wondered that ourselves. So we put Trekaroo writers and contributors to work to determine the best vantage point for viewing this amazing natural wonder! Here’s everything you need to know about choosing where to see Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls New York vs. Canada

Getting to niagara falls.

The four westernmost Great Lakes feed into the Niagara River before heading over the falls and eventually into Lake Ontario. The falls drop a crazy amount of water- 681,750 gallons per second flowing over Horseshoe Falls to be precise. Falling at speeds of 32 feet per second and creating 2,509 tons of force, visiting Niagara Falls is an experience your family won’t ever forget.

From the United States side, getting to Niagara Falls NY is a breeze. Buffalo, NY is only 19 miles from Niagara Falls State Park . From the Canadian side, getting there is a bit trickier. The closest big city is Toronto, 85 miles away from the Falls. If you are planning on spending time in Toronto, check out our picks for the Top 10 Things to do in Toronto with kids . 

Renting a car and driving this distance is pretty simple. Many families from the Canadian side choose to take tour buses that pick you up and drop you back off at your hotel.

My family LOVED our tour with King Tours in Toronto . They picked us up and returned us directly to our hotel room; we explored the Falls, visited nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, and even went wine tasting. The kids made friends on the bus and mom and dad loved not having to drive back in Toronto traffic. Check out King Tours when making your tour reservation .

Winner – Niagara Falls New York . Getting to and from the Falls is much quicker on the US side, plus, you can squeeze in a visit to Fort Niagara- a 300-year-old US fort.

Niagara Falls New York vs Canada- Boat Ride to the Falls

No matter which side of the border you are on, boat tours are offered that take families to all three falls (Horseshoe, American and Bridal Veil). This experience is one that can’t be missed! There is nothing like feeling the “mist” of the water encompassing everything all around you. It is a family-travel memory I will honestly never forget.

Niagara City Cruises operates on the Canadian side while Maid of the Mist has been offering tours on the American side since the 1800s. Both tours include ponchos.

Tours are 20 minutes long and both tours operate seasonally (typically April-November). Niagara City Cruises typically extends its season through the end of November. Prices are similar, and both operators offer similar package deals.

Winner –  Niagara Falls Ontario, Canada . Niagara City Cruises offers the only nighttime tours of the Falls. (yay water fireworks!)

Here is a guide to visiting Niagara Falls Canada in winter .

Niagara Falls New York vs. Canada- Best View of the Falls and How to Walk There!

Both the US and Canadian sides of the Falls offer a Journey Behind the Falls walking tour , an additional option for those looking to get up close to the falls. Both also feature spectacular views of the falls up close. The panoramic views on each tour are very similar, with rock cutouts behind Horseshoe Falls and observation decks to view from water level (and get soaked upon!).

The US boasts another tour, Cave of the Winds , which oddly enough doesn’t go through any caves. This walking tour takes families down 175 feet to the “Hurricane Deck” next to Bridal Veil Falls. This tour is the closest (and wettest) you’ll get to the Falls on foot. They even provide souvenir sandals so your shoes don’t get soaked!

Winner – Niagara Falls, New York . Cave of the Winds is an experience all in itself.

Ready to explore more of New York? Check out our picks for the Top 10 Things to do in New York State with Kids .

Other Things to Do in Niagara Falls New York vs Canada

Although most visitors to the area come for the boat and walking tours, there are quite a few other things to do while visiting the Falls.

Things to Do in Nature Niagara Falls, NY

On the New York side, exploring the Falls is all about nature. As part of Niagara Falls State Park , one of the oldest state parks in the US, families can explore the history of the region while discovering the waterfalls themselves.

The Niagara Gorge Discovery Center teaches kids about the geology of the region, including fossils and formations. Kids will love the rock climbing wall and hands-on displays. Marked hikes throughout the park take families past the ruins of the first hydroelectric station, as well as the opportunity to scramble over boulders.

The Adventure Theater , located in the state park visitor center, screens showings of “ Niagara: Miracles, Myths & Magic,” showcasing the history of the Falls. The Niagara Aquarium boasts more than 1500 aquatic animals!

Things to Do in Niagara Falls, Canada

The Canadian side of Niagara Falls, situated in the city of Clifton Hill, is all about adventure. Adrenaline junkies won’t want to miss attractions including WildPlay’s Niagara Falls Zipline to the Falls, a 2,200 foot zipline past the American Falls to the base of Horseshoe Falls.

They also shouldn’t skip the WildPlay Whirlpool Adventure Course suspended above views of the Niagara River. The White Water Walk showcases the power of the water as you tour the river on boardwalks that showcase the Whirlpool Rapids. The Whirlpool Aero Car , which is over 100 years old, suspends families over the Whirlpool rapids in antique style.

Additional Canadian-side attractions include the Butterfly Conservatory , Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens , the Floral Clock , Niagara’s Fury – a  360-degree 4D theatre that showcases the power and history of the Falls, golf, hiking in the nature center, observation tower, and of course, the casinos. Read details of all the Canadian side offerings in our Guide to Visiting Niagara Falls with kids . 

Winner – Niagara Falls, Canada for the sheer number of attraction options.

Restaurants & Shopping in Niagara Falls

Both sides of Niagara Falls offer a variety of restaurants and shopping opportunities. On the Canadian side, visitors will find fast food restaurants, family-friendly chains (like the Hard Rock and Rainforest Cafe), casinos, buffets, and lots of souvenir shopping.

The water’s edge along the New York side is actually a state park. The US side feels quite a bit more natural than its neighbor . Just outside the park grounds in the US sits a wealth of restaurants and shopping opportunities. (Another Hard Rock Cafe sits on the American side should you really need to get a pin or t-shirt!)

Want to get fancy? Book a reservation at a restaurant with views of the Falls . The Canadian side boasts a slew of them, including the rotating views at Skylon Tower which sits 775 feet above the Falls. The Keg Steakhouse & Bar,   Table Rock House Restaurant, and Morton’s Grille are also good options.

Winner – Niagara Falls New York. Although we like the options on the Canadian side, we love the natural focus in the US; there are still plenty of restaurants and options for shopping and snacking, but you won’t feel like you are in a tourist trap.

Hotels Near Niagara Falls

On the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, there are plenty of options for families. From kid-friendly resorts like Trekaroo family-favorite Great Wolf Lodge to  Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls with impressive views, there is a wide variety of hotel options near the falls and right in the action. If you do choose the Great Wolf Lodge, we have a great article filled with Great Wolf Lodge tips .

The hotel options on the US side of the falls are a bit less plentiful but still diverse. Options include favorite chains like Holiday Inn , DoubleTree by Hilton , Sheraton and Comfort Inn .

Check rates on Niagara Falls hotels — Best Rates Guaranteed.

Niagara Falls Bundled Discounts

The Canadian side of Niagara Falls offers bundled discounts to explore the attractions and activities. 

The Niagara Falls Adventure Pass offers three bundles, depending on the activities you hope to do. All passes include WeGo bus passes; visitors can then select attractions based on their interests including nature, classic tours, and plus, which allows admission to nearly everything.

Winner – Niagara Falls Canada . We like that Canada gives us options on what we want to see and experience.  Niagara Falls, New York no longer offers bundled discount passes.

Related: Explore our guide to visiting Niagara Falls with your family .

Tips on Crossing the Border at Niagara Falls

If you still can’t decide which side of the falls to see, you could always see both. There are a few options for crossing the border:

Driving across the border:  You can drive across the border at Rainbow Bridge, Whirlpool Bridge (Nexus only), and Lewiston Queenston Bridge.

Trekaroo Tip: Single parents will need a certified letter with permission to cross the border without both parents. If you are caravanning, be sure your kids are in your own vehicle at the border.

Walking across the border: You can also walk or bike across the border on the Rainbow Bridge, a fun option if you don’t want to wait in a line of cars. The same passport rules apply.

Description

See all the gems of historical and cultural center of the capital in short time and without traffic jams or tiresome walking.

Depending on the itinerary and duration of the Moscow River boat trip, the tour can be 3 or 5 hours.

Highlights of the tour

• St Basil’s Cathedral;
• Stalin skyscraper on Kotelnicheskaya (Tinkers) embankment;
• The Kremlin;
• “House on the Embankment” Stalin skyscraper;
• Monument to Peter I;
• The Central House of Artists;
• Christ the Savior Cathedral;
• Gorky Park;
• Moscow State University;
• Russian Academy of Sciences;
• Luzhniki stadium;
• Novodevichy Monastery;
• Kiev railway station;
• Europe Square;
• Moscow City Hall;
• Government House;
• Expocentre Exhibition Complex;
• and other famous sights.

You will learn about the different epochs of the city from the foundation in 1147 till Soviet times of 20 th  century.

Moscow River

Moskva river has the form of a snake and is the main waterway of Moscow, consisting of a cascade of reservoirs. Within the city, Moskva river is 80 km long, 120 m - 200 m wide and up to 14 m deep. The narrowest part of the river is the Kremlin area in the city center, and the most extensive is around the Luzhniki Stadium in the south. 

Bridges in Moscow

Undoubtedly, bridges and embankments are among the most scenic spots and main attractions of Moscow. Plus, they are so romantic.

• Bolshoy Kamenny Bridge –  Great Stone Bridge –  is the main bridge of Moscow . The first stone bridge was constructed here in the 17th century.
• Patriarshy Bridge  is one of the youngest pedestrian bridges, built in 2004. The bridge connects the iconic Christ the Saviour Cathedral with funky Bersenevskaya embankment, extremely popular place among locals for its trendy art galleries, cafes and panoramic views. Patriarshy Bridge used to be a shooting location for ex-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's New Year speech to the nation.
• Borodinsky Bridge,  erected in honor of the 100th anniversary of the glorious victory in the Battle of Borodino (which every Russian kid knows about), a fierce legendary battle during the Russo-French war of 1812.
• Bagration Bridge  one of the  pedestrian bridges with most picturesque views of the Moskva River with its numerous upper-level observation platforms. The bridge was erected to celebrate the 850th anniversary of Moscow city in 1997.
• Krymsky Bridge  used to be in Top 5 Europe’s longest bridges some 100 years ago. The bridge got its name after the ancient Krymsky ford which Crimean Tartars used to invade Moscow in the 16 th  century.

Embankments of Moscow

Moscow river boats 37 embankments, the most popular being Kremlevskaya, Sofiyskaya, Pushkinskaya, Vorobyovskaya and Kolomenskaya.

You can get the most spectacular views of the Kremlin from  Kremlevskaya and Sofiyskaya embankments.

• Pushkinkaya embankment  is the most romantic in Moscow. It meanders along Gorky Park and Neskuchnyi garden and is rich for all kinds of entertainment as well as cozy nooks, including Olivkovy beach, the famous Zeleny theater as well as a pier for river cruisers.
• Vorobyevskaya embankment  is part of Sparrow Hills nature reserve. This place opens a beautiful panorama of the river and city from the observation deck and is considered to be the place for taking serious decisions in life.
• Embankment in Kolomenskoye  Museum-Reserve has a special charm due to its peculiar geographical relief. The boat trip around Kolomenskoye would be the most peaceful in your life.
• Taras Shevchenko embankment  is popular among photographers for its modern Moscow City skyscrapers. Highly recommended for your night boat trip.
• Embankments of Moscow are the pride of the capital. A distinctive feature of each of the promenades is its architecture and beautiful views. In addition, almost all the embankments of Moscow have a rich history and a lot of notable buildings.

Different epochs

Taking a walk along the Moskva River by boat, you will witness the architecture of Moscow from different eras and styles. Archaeological studies indicate that already in the XI century there stood a fortified settlement on Borovitsky hill, which is now called the Kremlin. Little fortress could not accommodate all the residents of the rapidly growing city, and the Grand Duke ordered the construction of a new Kremlin, larger than the former.

Boat trip around Kolomenskoe Park

Moscow river boat trip starts from the pier Klenovy (Maple) Boulevard and provides reat views of Nicholas Perervinsky monastery.

Nicholas Perervinsky monastery was founded at the time of the Battle of Kulikov (1380). The monastery, got its name from the surrounding area – “Pererva”, which can be translated like “tear off” and because of the location –  here it abruptly changed its course, turning to Kolomna, standing on the opposite bank.

Nowadays Kolomenskoye is State Art, Historical, Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve, which doors are open to everyone who wants to get in touch with the ancient history of Russia.

Take a break from the big city hustle in the shady parks and gardens of the Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve. Don’t miss a wonderful Church of the Ascension and Tsar Alexey’s Palace in Kolomenskoye!

Monasteries and temples

• Novospassky Monastery
• Founded in the 13th century on the site where now is located the Danilovsky monastery. After a few decades, in 1330, Ivan Kalita moved the monastery onto the Borovitskii hill of the Kremlin. However, in the 15th century, Spassky Monastery again moved, this time to a more spacious place on Krasnoholmskaya waterfront.
• Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom
• Erected in the middle of the XVIII century in baroque style. The building survived after the 1812 fire, but the utensils were destoyed. Parishioners collected donations and restored the temple on their own. In Soviet times, it was closed and re-opened only in 1992.
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• The church was originally erected in honor of the victory over Napoleon and was being under construction for long 44 years. Notoriously demolished in 1937 to be a giant swimming pool under open sky. The current building was constructed in 1990s. It is the tallest and one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
• The temple was built in 1679-82, during the reign of Tsar Fedor Alekseevich, in late Muscovite Baroque style and can be characterized as bonfire temple. Each gable is a symbol of a heavenly fire.
• Novodevichy Convent
• The most famous concent and monastery in Moscow, presumably founded in 1524. Novodevichy’s status has always been high among other monasteries, it was in this monastery where the women of the royal blood, the wives of Tsars and local rulers of Moscow were kept in prison as nuns.
• St. Andrew’s church  (male acts as Compound Patriarch of Moscow)
• St. Andrew’s church stands right on the slopes of the Sparrow Hills, on the way down to the Moskva River, on the territory of the Nature Reserve “Sparrow Hills”. The monastery is small in size but is very cozy. It’s situated in a quiet courtyard surrounded by temples, fruit trees and flowers.

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow river cruise.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

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