Things to do in
Niagara Falls, USA

Marvel at a natural wonder, explore the state park, and set off on a cruise from the US side of the Falls.

Our most recommended things to do in Niagara Falls, USA

Niagara Falls, Canada: First Boat Cruise & Behind Falls Tour

1. Niagara Falls, Canada: First Boat Cruise & Behind Falls Tour

See Niagara Falls up close on a stunning boat cruise followed by a guided walking tour and visit to Journey Behind the Falls. This ultimate Niagara Falls tour with special access to the first elevator of the day. This journey brings you 19 stories down into the gorge, complete with panoramic views, meaning you’ll be the first ones down to the docks and personally escorted onto the Niagara City Cruises boat. Once on the boat, you get to pick the best possible viewing spot before the crowds arrive. A complimentary poncho is included and trust us you’ll need it! The 20 minute cruise around the falls can drench anyone adventuring near enough. Following the Niagara City Cruise, your guide will immerse you in the history and stories of the Falls as you take a walking tour around the boardwalk. View the site of the former Honeymoon Bridge while you learn the story of how it collapsed and hear about the famous restaurant viewpoint, Queen Victoria Place, where Princess Diana dined. The perpetual motion of Bridal Veil Falls and American Falls can be seen in action, while your guide brings to life the brave daredevils who challenged the power of the falls by going over the edge. A standout moment and picture opportunity are the Horseshoe Falls, so don’t forget your camera. Table Rock Visitor Center is next where you’ll get to enter the Journey Behind the Falls experience. With a pre-booked time slot, climb right down the stairs into the rocky caves behind Niagara Falls where crashing water reverberates through the tunnels. The path leads to a ledge on the side of the falls where you can feel the true power of 3,160 tons of water a second as it comes cascading down close by. For those who crave a complete Niagara Falls experience, this tour mixes exclusive access, excitement, and history, with exceptional storytelling from an expert guide.

Niagara Falls, NY: Maid of the Mist Boat & Falls Sightseeing

2. Niagara Falls, NY: Maid of the Mist Boat & Falls Sightseeing

Enjoy the Maid of the Mist Boat Ride and then explore the Niagara Falls State Park during a guided walking tour. Hear about stories about the legends and the exciting side of Niagara Falls, from those who discovered it to those who challenged it. Meet your guide outside the Hard Rock Café and begin your waterfall-filled adventure. Hop aboard the Maid of the Mist and experience the mist that rises from the force of the falling water. Look for the rainbows that appear on sunny days.  Chart course from the Observation Tower to the base of the American Falls and onto the basin of Horseshoe Falls. Admire roaring falls and the massive rock formations as you glide across the water. Take a scenic walking tour from the historical marker at Hennepin Rock to the Trolley Loop around Prospect Point. Take in sweeping views, lush trees, and historical landmarks as you go. Return to your starting point at the end of the tour. 

From New York City: Niagara Falls One Day Tour

3. From New York City: Niagara Falls One Day Tour

Depart New York City and journey to Niagara Falls in New York State to experience the natural wonder from multiple perspectives. Ride the famous Maid of the Mist boat and get up close to attractions such as Horseshoe Falls and American Falls. Leave NYC late at night to arrive in the early morning to morning-mist rainbows and the falls’ magnificent roars. Alternatively, depart New York City in the morning for a chance to see the falls change from day to night, and to witness a light show and fireworks. Hear the roar of the waterfalls and see magical rainbows that'll take your breath away in the early morning before the crowds arrive. Climb aboard the famous Maid of the Mist boat to get up close to the immense Horseshoe Falls. Visit attractions such as the uninhabited Goat Island and Luna Island on the Niagara River. Get stunning views of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls and gaze in awe at the rapids of the Niagara River as it tumbles towards the amazing cascades.

From NYC: 1-Day Niagara Falls Tour

4. From NYC: 1-Day Niagara Falls Tour

Embark on a day trip to Niagara Falls from New York City. Witness the dramatic views of the falls and avoid the hassle of border-crossing traffic and visa checks as this tour visits only the falls on the American side. Head north towards Niagara Falls in the late evening, making one stop along the way. Upon arrival in the morning, have breakfast and relax before traveling to the American side of the falls. You can buy ticket with the tour guide for $30 and go on Board the famous Maid Of The Mist, bringing you to the Horseshoe Falls, the most spectacular part of Niagara Falls. Continue to other major sights on Goat Island, including Bridal Veil Falls. Tuck into a delicious buffet lunch in the afternoon before your return trip back to Manhattan in an air-conditioned bus, which will arrive in the late evening.

Niagara Falls: Walking Tour, Journey Behind Falls, & Cruise

5. Niagara Falls: Walking Tour, Journey Behind Falls, & Cruise

Experience the best way to see Niagara Falls on foot with our Best of Niagara Falls Canada Walking Tour! You won’t want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Your fun-filled, Niagara Falls tour begins with your local friendly guide meeting you outside of the Skylon Tower. While you are there, you will ascend 520 ft. in a glass elevator to the observation deck where you will be treated to an incredible, birds-eye view of all three Niagara Falls (Bridal Veil Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and the American Falls), as well as the Niagara River and surrounding area. Once you get back on the ground, your next stop will have you descend 125 ft (approx. 40m) to explore cave-like tunnels behind the Falls at Journey Behind the Falls. This experience is a treat for the senses as you’ll be able to not only hear the falls but feel them as well. The tunnels lead to two observation decks, giving you the perfect photo opportunity. After your visit to Journey Behind the Falls, we will take you to board the Voyage To The Falls Boat Tour. On your cruise, you will sail around the Niagara gorge and get as close as possible to the Falls. You can expect to feel the refreshing mist on your skin during this boat ride but don’t worry, you will be provided with a recyclable rain poncho. Once you have finished your amazing boat ride, your tour will come to a close and you and your guide will part ways. From December to April, when the boat tour is non-operational, visit the Niagara SkyWheel and Niagara's Fury attraction instead. Step inside a 4D motion theater and discover the ancient story of Niagara Falls in a multi-sensory simulation of the last Ice Age

Niagara Falls, USA: Maid of Mist & Cave of Winds Combo Tour

6. Niagara Falls, USA: Maid of Mist & Cave of Winds Combo Tour

Check Niagara Falls off your bucket list with this ultimate adventure experience. This complete package includes our guided history & sightseeing tour, guided admission to the famous Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, and reserved access to the Cave of the Winds Gorge Experience. Enjoy the sights and sound of Niagara Falls State Park as your Adventure Guide teaches you about the stories and legends that shaped Niagara. Enjoy views of the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls along scenic trails and Observation Towers. Experience the thrill of Niagara as you grab your complimentary rain poncho and board the Maid of the Mist boat, which takes you into the heart of the Horseshoe Falls. After your guided tour, grab your time reserved Cave of the Winds tickets and day passes for the hop-on-hop-off Niagara Scenic Trolley, and keep the adventure going as you explore the sights of Goat Island at your own pace. This family-friendly walking adventure is suitable for all ages.

Niagara, USA: Maid of Mist, Cave of Winds and Trolley Tour

7. Niagara, USA: Maid of Mist, Cave of Winds and Trolley Tour

Experience Niagara Falls from the US side with a licensed tour guide and a day pass for the park’s trolley. Ride the Maid of the Mist for a close up look at the American, Bridal Veil and Horseshoe Falls. Immerse yourself in the power of the Bridal Veil Falls from the Hurricane Deck at Cave of the Winds, or just enjoy the breathtaking views from the Boardwalk (the Cave collapsed in 1898, it is a boardwalk). You will have a Trolley wristband to hop on and off, using the Trolley for the day as you choose after your tour. Visit Three Sisters Islands, ride to Prospect Park, it is up to you! Your Guide will start by taking you to the Maid of the Mist, and they will share history, folklore and information on what you are seeing. They will help with photos and share where you will have the best views on your ride. Your Guide will give you time for photos on the Observation Deck, at the Crows Nest as well. Learn about daredevils who challenged the raging falls while you watch the water crashing behind your Guide. Your Guide will walk you to the Trolley stop, go over the Trolley locations in the park as well as their hours of operation and will accompany you to Goat Island. Your Guide will orient you to the Trolley stop locations and where each view area is on Goat Island and prepare you for your Cave of the Winds Experience. You may stay at the views on the Cave of the Winds Boardwalk for as long as you choose, and with the information your Guide provides you can enjoy the views on Goat Island at your own pace. You can ride the Trolley back to Prospect Park whenever you choose to access your vehicle or local eateries like the many food trucks on Old Falls Boulevard.

Niagara Falls: Walking Tour with Boat, Cave, and Trolley

8. Niagara Falls: Walking Tour with Boat, Cave, and Trolley

Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, Trolley Through State Park. Experience some of Niagara's famous attractions on this tour. Explore the Cave of the Winds, see all three of Niagara's famous waterfalls, and take a trolley ride around the State Park on this tour perfect for those trying to avoid a lengthy walking tour. Enjoy a walking tour from Hennepin Rock to the Trolley Loop around Prospect Point and admission to the Maid of the Mist. Discover the thrill of walking below and under a world-famous waterfall as you enjoy the Cave of the Winds and a walking tour that features all three of Niagara's Mighty Waterfalls. See other highlights of Niagara including the Power Arch, Tesla Statue, Luna Island, Steadman's Bluff, Gorge Rim Walkway, Terrapin Point, and more. Take a trolley ride around the park and stop at 5 different locations within the park, perfect for those who want to see the park without walking the entire park on foot.

From NYC: 2-Day Niagara Falls Tour with Shopping Trip

9. From NYC: 2-Day Niagara Falls Tour with Shopping Trip

Escape the hectic atmosphere of New York for a night on this 2-day tour to Niagara Falls. Travel to the U.S. side of the Falls and ride on the famous Maid of the Mist boat. Enjoy some time shopping for bargains at the an outlet mall along the way. Day 1: Depart from the centrally-located meeting point in New York on an air-conditioned van or bus and heads north. Pass the beautiful Delaware Gap and Watkins Glen State Park in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. Stretch your legs on a walk through Watkins Glen Canyon and capture pictures of views of the waterfalls. Drive by the stunning Seneca Lake and arrive in Niagara Falls in the late afternoon. Tour the American side of Niagara Falls, including the American Falls, Goat Island, and Sister Island. Admire a night tour of Niagara Falls showcasing the colorful lighting of the thundering waters before settling in into your comfortable hotel room for the night. Day 2: Eat a hearty continental breakfast at the hotel. See both the Niagara and the Horseshoe Falls up close from the Maid of the Mist boat (available from May to October). When the Maid of the Mist is not operating, take a tour of the Power Vista Hydro-Electric Station and visit the Cave of the Winds. Board your bus or van and drive south and back to New York City. Stretch your legs in a more urban area, with a shopping excursion at one of the large outlet malls along the way. Return to the city in time for you to grab a late dinner.

From Toronto: Niagara Falls Full-Day Bus Tour

10. From Toronto: Niagara Falls Full-Day Bus Tour

Discover the majesty of one of the world's most iconic natural wonders on a full-day guided tour of Niagara Falls. Your adventure begins as you step onto our state-of-the-art tour bus at the South Entrance of Union Station at Maple Leaf Square in downtown Toronto. Equipped with comfortable seating and complimentary WiFi, you're set for a pleasant ride to the stunning Niagara region. Along the way, your certified Niagara Falls tour guide will provide engaging commentary, enriching your understanding of the area's history, geology, and fascinating lore. Upon arrival, the thunderous roar of the falls captivates your senses, a sound as mesmerizing as the sight itself. We make our way to several prime vantage points for those picture-perfect moments and feelings of awe. Next on the itinerary is a visit to the Niagara Whirlpool, a natural whirlpool along the Niagara River. Depending on the season, we might also stop at the Floral Clock, one of the world's largest flower clocks and a garden masterpiece in its own right. Your day also includes leisure time in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a quaint town known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and charming ambiance. You can wander its picturesque streets, pop into shops, or even indulge in a local wine tasting if you're so inclined. Included in your tour package is admission to the Niagara Falls viewing area. Here, you get the chance to be up close and personal with this awe-inspiring natural spectacle. Feel the mist on your face and hear the deafening roar of water as it plunges into the abyss below. What makes this tour extra special is the flexibility to add optional experiences at your own expense. You can opt for the famous Hornblower Boat Ride, an exhilarating experience that takes you right up to the base of the falls. Prepare to don a poncho and get a bit wet—it's worth it to get this close to such a powerful natural wonder. Alternatively, consider the Journey Behind the Falls experience. This unique tour allows you to walk through tunnels to observation decks and portals located right behind the waterfall, providing a view of this marvel from the inside out. Please note that while this comprehensive tour offers a plethora of points of interest and scenic stops, meals like lunch and gratuities are not included. You'll have ample opportunity to purchase lunch in Niagara Falls from a variety of eateries to suit all tastes and budgets. This Niagara Falls tour promises a day chock-full of incredible sights, fascinating insights, and opportunities for unique, optional experiences. Your certified guide and our quality tour bus with WiFi ensure your journey is as informative as it is comfortable. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends, come and experience the grandeur of Niagara Falls in a way that only we can offer. Optional upgrades like the Hornblower Boat Ride and Journey Behind the Falls can be added on-site to make your adventure truly unforgettable.

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Frequently asked questions about Niagara Falls, USA

What top attractions are a must-see in Niagara Falls, USA?

What are the best day trips and excursions from Niagara Falls, USA?

The best day trips and excursions from Niagara Falls, USA are:

Canada

Other Sightseeing Options in Niagara Falls, USA

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What people are saying about Niagara Falls, USA

Overall rating

4.6
(4,456 reviews)

Paul the guide was exceptionally knowledge and a native of Niagara Falls. This made all the difference in understanding the unique nature of both the American and Canadian Falls. As far as the Maid of the Mist is concerned it was one of the best adventure experiences in many many International and National experiences

Mike was great guide. Maid of the Mist was very special Bummer that crows nest was closed. Did get to go to observation Tower though it was close to 5 pm. And Mike took us to goat island and we learned more history Very nice tour

great day with Haroon. Definitely recommend both boat tour and behind the falls. Only caution is absolutely nothing to eat that’s healthy. Only fast/mostly fried food. Trip was well worth the price.

Very nice experience! Long ride, but just put up with that little thing!

Great tour and knowledgeable tour guide. Got to see all of the falls.