Ultimate Guide to Visiting Niagara Falls

When traveling to Niagara Falls, it’s all about the views. However, what are the best spots? Here are a handful of places on both the American and Canadian sides that offer spectacularly breathtaking views that will make your trip one to remember.

1. Maid of the Mist

The Maid of the Mist is the most iconic activity for tourists seeking unforgettable views of Niagara Falls. Established over 170 years ago, the ferry takes passengers to the brink of the Falls, with boat rides available from mid-May to early November approximately every fifteen minutes. The twenty-minute tour guides visitors through the Niagara Gorge, past the American and Bridal Veil Falls, and into the mist from Horseshoe Falls. This unique perspective of all three waterfalls is a must-see.

2. Cave of the Winds

If you want to experience the falls up close, the Cave of the Winds tour offers an unforgettable adventure. An elevator descends to the base of the Niagara Gorge, and a wooden walkway guides guests to the Bridal Veil Falls. This incredibly immersive encounter allows for breathtaking views directly from the base. Note that the tour operates only from May to November due to weather conditions. Admission is affordable, making it accessible for families.

3. Niagara Falls State Park

For those on a budget, visiting Niagara Falls State Park is a must. It is free and provides stunning views of the American Falls. Although not as panoramic as those from the Canadian side, the American side allows visitors to get much closer. For unobstructed views, the Niagara Falls Observation Tower offers a unique vantage point extending over the Niagara River.

4. Skylon Tower

For a remarkable dining experience, the rotating restaurant at the Skylon Tower is a must-visit. It rotates every hour, providing diners with literally changing views of the Falls. Open for all meals, the restaurant serves a diverse menu suitable for families. Although slightly pricey, the captivating atmosphere and views justify the cost.

5. Queen Victoria Park

Queen Victoria Park is renowned not only for stunning views of the Falls but also for its beautifully landscaped gardens. The park offers horse and carriage tours in the spring and is a delightful spot to enjoy nighttime views during summer. Operated as a central feature of the Niagara Park system, it provides direct vistas of all three Falls, making it an ideal spot to catch a glimpse of everything.

6. Helicopter Tour

Since 1961, Niagara Helicopter has provided tourists with breathtaking aerial views of Niagara Falls. The twelve-minute tour takes participants above the river and around the American and Horseshoe Falls, offering unparalleled perspectives. Prices for the tour vary but remain reasonable considering the unique experience provided.

7. The Rainbow Room

Not to be overlooked, The Rainbow Room offers diners panoramic views of Niagara Falls alongside a contemporary menu. Diners can enjoy nearly unobstructed views through floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a unique dining atmosphere. Though entrees are around $30, the luxury experience of dining with such stunning views is undeniably captivating.

8. Niagara Falls Air Tours

For a more economical way to see the sights, consider an airplane tour with Niagara Falls Air Tours. Their thirty-minute flight costs $199 and showcases the entire Niagara region, including landmarks such as Niagara-on-the-Lake and Lake Ontario. The cost decreases with more passengers, making it a great option for groups while providing an efficient means to experience the area—all while taking in stunning aerial views.