There’s a few things to do in Niagara Falls other than the falls themselves, but here’s some quick info on the attractions to do centered at the falls.

Maid of the Mist – Still going strong after all these years, (it’s been going for over 150 years) the Maid of the Mist is a boat ride that takes you as close as safely possible to the bottom of the horseshoe falls.  Yes, it’s a bit touristy but it’s also worth doing. You get given a plastic rain poncho and if you stand outside you can get a bit wet but nothing too bad. It’s pretty cool, kids will love it and as an adult, it’s still quite a neat experience.  Note that it only opens basically one month of the year.  October 4 – October 31: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (daily) and November 1 – November 5: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (daily), but check the website for each years schedule because it differs.

Cave of the Winds – Before venturing under the falls, there’s a rather boring “The World Changed Here Pavilion” where you can learn a bit about the history.  Put on your poncho and sandals and walk right into the Niagara Gorge. Once you get out of the cave you walk onto some wooden decking and onto something called the Hurricane Deck.  This is the closest you can get to the falls and you’re basically at the Bridal Veil Falls and can experience their full fury.  Again, pretty impressive and quite fun.  You don’t get to experience this type of thing anywhere else in the world as far as I know of. Note this also seasonal, so check the Niagara Falls State Park website for the operating and opening hours.

Observation Tower – The Niagara Falls USA Observation Tower is the only place where you can get panoramic views of all three Niagara Falls, including the ones on the American side. It’s basically exactly what it says but when you get there you can only help but be impressed by the might and power of the falls.  Even this has limited opening hours so be sure to check before going. These are the main three attractions to see at Niagara Falls themselves.  There’s a few other things to do in and around Niagara Falls and we’ll feature those soon.

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