One of the world’s most spectacular landmarks Niagara Falls can be visited on a number of tours, including several that take you to the US side of the iconic site.
(Photo: Viator / Courtesy Over the Falls Tours)
All three sections of Niagara Falls – Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls – can be seen from the American side, and there are also opportunities to get up close and personal with its cascading waters on boat trips. If you’d like to take in Niagara Falls on the US side of the proverbial fence, we’ve picked out three of the best organised tours currently available.
Niagara Falls Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride
This tour gives visitors the chance to get as close as anyone can get to Niagara Falls without riding over them in a barrel. Running from May to October, the half-day tour begins with a group assembly at Aquarium of Niagara. From here, you’ll take an elevator ride down into the Niagara Gorge, where wooden walkways along the Niagara River lead to the observation deck of the Cave of the Winds, just a few feet from the powerful rush of the falls. Next, you’ll sail on the Maid of the Mist boat ride which takes you to the very edge of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Back on dry land, you’ll get to marvel at the falls from the US side before returning to your point of departure. From $120 per person.
2-Day Niagara Falls and Shopping Trip from NYC
Escape the bustle of the Big Apple on this 2-day excursion where you’ll get to see both the American and Canadian sides of the Falls. After departing New York by air-conditioned van or bus, you’ll head north, passing the beautiful Delaware Gap and on to Watkins Glen State Park in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. Here you can stretch your legs on a walk through Watkins Glen Canyon. Arriving in Niagara Falls late afternoon, you’ll tour the American side, and once the sun sets, see the colourful lighting of the thundering waters. On day 2, after enjoying a continental breakfast at your hotel, you’ll head back to Falls for an up-close experience on the Maid of the Mist boat ride. Around noon, it’s time to head south and back to NYC. From $340 per person.
Niagara Falls Open Jet Boat Tour
(Photo: Viator/ Courtesy Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours)
Adventure-seekers can take a ride on the wild side on this thrilling 45-minute jet boat tour down the whitewater rapids of the Niagara River – one of the most memorable experiences of any visit to Niagara Falls. Meeting in the town of Lewiston n Niagara County, New York, you’ll first join a quick safety briefing before grabbing a poncho, some water shoes and a life jacket, and hopping aboard your vessel. After setting off, you’ll take in the shoreline, beginning at beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake, and check out sites like Brock’s Monument and Fort Niagara before reaching Devil’s Hole Rapids. Hold on tight as you traverse the swirling Niagara Gorge. Look around and appreciate the scenery and learn about the history of the majestic Niagara River as you navigate the 18-mile journey. . From $65 per person.
By Paul Joseph