Top 15 Niagara Falls Tours for an Unforgettable Experience

North America is not lacking in spectacular natural destinations, and Niagara Falls undoubtedly stands out among them.

Niagara Falls consists of three waterfalls situated along the border between Canada and the United States—specifically, southern Ontario and western New York.

The American Falls is the tallest, plunging down 176 feet (53.6 meters). The Canadian Falls, which is also referred to as Horseshoe Falls, is the second tallest, with a vertical drop of 167 feet (50.9 meters).

The Bridal Veil Falls, also known as Luna Falls or Iris Falls, completes this trio. Located on the American side, it bears resemblance to its larger counterpart but is significantly smaller.

Niagara Falls ranks among the most frequented attractions in New York and Ontario, attracting approximately 30 million visitors annually, a number that continues to rise.

Consequently, it isn’t surprising that numerous tours operate in and around this area.

The following are the 15 premier tours available at Niagara Falls, sourced from both New York and Ontario.

1. Niagara Falls Day Trip by Air from New York City

Niagara Falls and New York City present two contrasting experiences; however, a helicopter trip from the Big Apple will transport you to the wonders of nature within an hour.

This 14-hour tour commences and concludes at a hotel in NYC, with all transportation meticulously arranged.

A scenic flight of approximately one hour leads you to Niagara Falls, followed by a guided bus tour encompassing both the American and Canadian sides, concluding with an inclusive buffet lunch while you take in the falls.

After lunch, an unforgettable experience awaits, contingent upon the season.

From May to October, a 30-minute cruise aboard the Maid of the Mist allows you to approach the base of both the American and Horseshoe Falls, while the Journey Behind the Falls, which descends 125 feet, is provided from November through April.

2. 2-Day Niagara Falls and Shopping Trip from New York City

If you find yourself in New York City and are seeking an escape into nature, this two-day tour of Niagara Falls offers a refreshing experience.

The itinerary is divided into two distinct days.

On Day 1, you will depart the Big Apple in a climate-controlled van and travel north through the Finger Lakes region toward the American side of the falls.

During the journey, you will encounter various attractions, including Watkins Glen State Park and Seneca Lake.

Day 2 begins with an inclusive breakfast at the hotel, which is part of the package.

You will then visit both the US and Canadian sides of the falls and experience the iconic Maid of the Mist, which operates from May to October. A visit to the Scenic Tunnels is provided during the remaining months.

Additionally, time will be allotted for shopping at the outlet mall as you return to the city.

3. From New York City: Niagara Falls Full-Day Bus Tour

This 19-hour tour departs New York City in the morning aboard a deluxe bus equipped with Wi-Fi and entertainment options.

En route, you will enjoy splendid views of the Appalachian Mountains, with a scheduled stop for snacks prior to reaching the falls.

Upon arrival, you will be able to view Niagara Falls from various vantage points, with the option to take a boat cruise along the Niagara River.

After the tour concludes, time remains available to explore the souvenir shops (and have lunch if desired), as well as to stroll through the scenic grounds of Niagara Falls State Park.

You will then return to New York around 10 PM.

4. Niagara Falls and Washington DC 2-Day Combo from New York

If you are in New York City with two days at your disposal, consider this combo tour that showcases the highlights of both Niagara Falls and Washington DC.

Round-trip transportation is included, and Day 1 encompasses a visit to the major attractions in DC, including, among others, the Capitol building, WWII Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial.

You will also tour the FBI and Federal Reserve offices, alongside the Air and Space Museum.

Day 2 commences early and takes you from New York, through the Appalachian Mountains, to the upper section of Niagara Falls.

Witness the cascades from diverse perspectives, with ample time to explore the grounds of Niagara Falls State Park before departing for New York City in the evening.

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

Should you desire ample time to thoroughly explore Niagara Falls, this particular tour is ideal.

The 22-hour excursion commences with a late-night departure from New York City, arriving at Niagara Falls early in the morning prior to the influx of tourists.

You will relish the sight of all three falls in a serene atmosphere and have the opportunity to closely approach the Horseshoe Falls aboard the Maid of the Mist.

After immersing yourself in the majestic views of the falls, there are further attractions along the Niagara River awaiting your exploration, including the unpopulated Goat Island and Luna Island.

6. Niagara Falls, Canada: “Journey Behind The Falls”

This captivating day tour, available year-round, provides an exclusive viewpoint of the Horseshoe Falls from below.

An elevator will descend you 150 feet beneath the Niagara Falls bedrock where a small tunnel opens to twin outdoor observation decks located directly behind the falls.

Alongside experiencing the remarkable force of Niagara Falls up close, this excursion becomes an educational journey recounting the processes involved in carving the tunnels 130 years prior.

The Journey Behind the Falls lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

A complimentary rain poncho is provided during the spring or summer months to shield you from the mists rising from the falls.

Numerous photo opportunities abound, so ensuring you have a waterproof camera is recommended.

7. Niagara Falls from Toronto Full Day Tour

This tour grants you an entire day to delve into the natural beauty of Niagara Falls.

Beginning with a pickup from Toronto, you can expect a variety of engaging activities.

The 90-minute journey to the initial stop is the perfect opportunity to learn about Toronto. The first stop will be at a highly acclaimed winery, where participants can indulge in wine tasting.

Subsequently, you will travel to the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, known for its historical significance and delightful bakeries, followed by a scenic drive along the Niagara Parkway, featuring numerous prime photo opportunities along the way to the falls.

Once at the falls, a variety of activities await, with three hours of personal time allocated prior to returning to Toronto.

8. Niagara Falls Classic Day Tour from Toronto

This full-day tour departs from Toronto and leads you on a remarkable exploration of the three waterfalls and beyond.

Several exciting activities are included during the journey to the falls, such as a visit to a winery, and you will have three different options to select from for lunch.

Option 1 features a buffet lunch while enjoying breathtaking views of Niagara Falls, inclusive of a boat cruise to the base of the Horseshoe Falls.

Option 2 provides the freedom to dine at your leisure, complemented by an exhilarating boat cruise to the base of the Horseshoe Falls.

Option 3 allows for a ticket to the Niagara SkyWheel, offering splendid panoramas of the falls, with additional free time for exploration.

You will also have an opportunity to browse souvenirs at the Table Rock Complex and discover the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

9. Niagara Falls Canada: Niagara SkyWheel Ticket

This engaging package offers an exhilarating ride on the Niagara SkyWheel, the largest observation wheel in Canada.

Enjoy an 8-12 minute excursion, either during the day or night, accompanied by audio narration detailing the history of the falls and the SkyWheel.

Sitting 175 feet above the falls, there is no comparable way to absorb the views of the Niagara River, its three waterfalls, and nearby landmarks.

10. Niagara Falls Clifton Hill Fun Pass: 6 Top Attractions

This pass provides an affordable way to access six premier family attractions at Clifton Hill.

Included activities feature a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel, the immersive Zombie Attack adventure with 6D graphics, entry to the Great Canadian Midway, a round of golf, and much more.

11. Niagara Falls Wild Magic Ticket

This 90-minute tour is an exhilarating experience that begins with a remarkable performance featuring exotic birds, rare tigers, and vibrant dancers at the Niagara Falls Theater, reminiscent of a Las Vegas show.

Next, attendees will witness an outstanding illusion show presented by the renowned Greg Frewin.

Discover what made Greg the Magician of the Year and why his peers have recognized him as The International Grand Champion of Magic.

12. From Ontario: Niagara Falls 12-Minute Helicopter Flight

This 12-minute excursion offers an unforgettable sightseeing experience over Niagara Falls and several notable points of interest surrounding this natural marvel.

The journey commences at the Victoria Avenue Heliport in Ontario aboard a 7-passenger Airbus H130, recognized as one of the quietest helicopters within its class.

Onboard narration is offered in 12 languages as you soar over highlights such as the Sir Adam Beck Generating Plant, Queen Victoria Park, American Falls, and Skylon Tower.

The flight path follows the contour of Horseshoe Falls on your return, and on a clear day, the Toronto skyline and the shoreline of Lake Erie can be observed.

13. Canada Combo Tour: Above & Behind the Niagara Falls

This comprehensive tour aims to enhance your experience of Niagara Falls.

You will appreciate both the American and Horseshoe falls from the most favorable angles, and engage in a boat ride along the fascinating Hornblower Niagara Cruise (one of the primary attractions here) that brings you in close proximity to the powerful waters.

Furthermore, you will visit the Canadian and American Niagara power plants, admire the picturesque Floral Clock adorned with 16,000 carpet bedding plants, learn about Niagara Glen, and ascend the Skylon Tower for breathtaking aerial views, among other key highlights.

14. Niagara Falls Helicopter Ride, Boat Trip & Skylon Lunch

This combined tour initiates with a 12-minute flight offering unparalleled views of the waterfalls and whirlpool rapids from above.

Following the flight, participants will embark on a boat ride aboard the distinguished Hornblower Niagara Cruise (operating from April to December), allowing for a close-up experience with the cascading waters.

During winter months, you will instead partake in the Niagara Fury, an interactive 4D presentation designed to provide thrilling sensations, along with a visit to the Butterfly Conservatory.

Subsequently, ascend to the observation deck of the Skylon Tower for 360-degree views while savoring a delightful lunch at the Summit Suite Buffet.

Lastly, embark on the Journey Behind the Falls tour to witness Horseshoe Falls from below and behind while learning about the origins of the falls, the Niagara Gorge, and the Whirlpool Rapids.

15. Royal Canadian Tour and Maid of the Mist Boat Ride

This comprehensive 4-hour program caters to a diverse audience, offering the best views of all three falls from prime vantage points such as Table Rock and Terrapin Point.

Experience an exhilarating boat ride aboard the Maid of the Mist, along with a trip up the Skylon Tower (which includes a complimentary return pass) to soak in the stunning views from above.

Other notable attractions include the Niagara River Gorge, the Dufferin Islands, Queen Victoria Park, Whirlpool Golf Course, and the Hydro-electric Power Plants, among a plethora of additional highlights.

This tour presents an exceptional opportunity to appreciate the majesty of Niagara Falls.