The thunderous cataract of Niagara Falls crashes down in a froth of freshwater, spraying emerald foliage with airy mist and pummeling dark rocks with churning foam.
The creamy waterfall cascades into the Niagara River below, whipping up whirling whitecaps that dot the aquamarine river like swirls of icing dabbed on a blue-frosted cake. For an unforgettable experience at Niagara Falls, check out these five must-see attractions.
Maid of the Mist
Encounter the power of the roaring waterfall on the Maid of the Mist tour in New York, a breathtaking excursion on a double-decker boat that escorts you to the heart of the cascade. Don the provided plastic poncho to keep your clothes dry before boarding the sleek green vessel whose white trim blends with the chalky hue of the cataract. Soak in Niagara’s spray while marveling at the faint rainbow that dances above the water’s surface. Tickets for the ride cost $25.25 USD per adult and $14.75 USD per child and can be purchased at the on-site ticket office.
Cave of the Winds
Take in spectacular views of Niagara Falls on the Cave of the Winds tour in New York, where you will trek through a cavern before coming to a walkway near the base of the waterfall. Step onto the rickety catwalk maze just a stone’s throw from the cataract itself to see Niagara’s foam crash over mossy rocks. Watch the waterfall’s whitewater plunge to the jagged stones far below and tumble over the slick rocks at its base. Tickets for the tour cost $19 USD per adult and $16 USD per child and can be purchased at the Cave of the Winds Plaza on Goat Island.
Whirlpool Aero Car
Watch bubbling rapids spin in a dizzying mix of turquoise and cream while you coast in the Whirlpool Aero Car, a historic aerial cable car that ferries visitors across the Niagara Gorge from Colt’s Point to Thompson Point. While the start and end points of the route are both in Canada, the cable car passes through about 200 feet of United States territory. Rest assured that riders do not need immigration authorization for the midair border crossing.
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the frothy whirlpool churning in the teal Niagara River during your 10-minute ride above the swirling current. Keep in mind that this attraction is not wheelchair accessible and is only open between April and October. Tickets for the ride cost $17 CAD ($13.52 USD) per adult and $11.25 CAD ($8.95 USD) per child and can be purchased on the Niagara Parks website.
Marriott Fallsview Hotel and Spa
After touring Niagara Falls in New York, continue exploring across the border in Ontario, Canada. For a luxurious stay on Niagara’s rim, visit the four-diamond Marriott Fallsview Hotel and Spa for phenomenal views of the colossal cataract right outside your window. At night, watch Niagara explode with color as dazzling lights splash neon beams on the cascade, transforming the falls’ white canvas into a fluorescent fresco.
Zipline to the Falls
Soar alongside Niagara via the Wildplay Zipline to the Falls, a thrilling ride that takes you to the foot of the Canadian Horseshoe segment of the cascade in Ontario. After strapping on a bright blue helmet and securing the harness, enjoy your exhilarating flight 220 feet above the roaring water. Experience the rushing wind and misty spray as you glide beside Niagara’s tumultuous torrent at speeds of over 40 miles per hour on this unforgettable adventure. Tickets can be purchased on site for $59.99 CAD ($47.73 USD) plus tax.
Dive in to all that Niagara Falls has to offer by visiting these five can’t-miss destinations.
