If you’re visiting Niagara Falls, the waterfall is probably your main focus—and rightly so.
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Niagara Falls is one of the continent’s greatest natural wonders. Unlike the equally impressive Victoria Falls in Africa, which has a canyon-like structure, the water cascades over a single ledge, offering jaw-dropping views.
If you want to get up close to the falls, you can take an intrepid boat trip. If not, you can enjoy the scenery from a bird’s-eye hotel room or at another falls-facing establishment. (They aren’t that hard to come by!)
But the waterfall is hardly the only reason to visit Niagara Falls and the surrounding region. Did you know, for example, that Niagara has its very own wine trail? And that the city regularly puts on a festive calendar of events for locals and visitors to enjoy?
In short, there’s a lot going on in Niagara, and the falls are just the start. Here’s a list of popular, highly rated tours that you can book on your next visit or use as inspiration to jump off the beaten track.
Note: Part of Niagara Falls is located in the United States, while another section is in Canada. The tours listed below take place on the US side of the border—but you can find plenty more by looking for tours in Niagara Falls, Canada.
8 unique tours in Niagara Falls, from wine trails to jet boats
Rainbow Illumination & Fireworks Night Tour
This tour takes you through Niagara Falls State Park after the sun sets and the waterfall’s light show comes to life. You’ll get to see the falls light up with the iconic glow that blends water, mist, and—depending on the moon cycle—moonlight. To round off the magical experience, you’ll get to see a fireworks show light up the sky. Great for fans of nighttime and dazzling lights.
Nightlight Experience with Fireworks Night Tour
This is a similar tour to the last—I’m listing it in case you’re looking for another option from a different provider. Both walking tours include an adventure to the falls at night, giving you the chance to see the colorful lights at full force, then enjoy a short fireworks show.
Nightlights Tour with Dinner
This nighttime tour is different than the last two. First, you’ll head out on the water on the Maid of the Mist to see the falls during the day. Following the boat trip, you’ll head to the Observation Tower, and then up to Steak Stone and Sushi for dinner. When the meal is done, you’ll head back to the falls to enjoy the light display in the dark.
All-inclusive Boutique Wine Tour
Head out on a small group tour that sets you up in a comfortable ride and takes you into Niagara County—away from the crowds and falls. You’ll stop at four wineries where you can sample all the products you want. (Remember, this area has one of the country’s most famous wine trails—you’ll be in good company.) As a perk, this tour comes with a flexible start time so you can put together the ideal itinerary.
Jet Boat Tour on Niagara River
If you like speed and don’t mind a few splashes, this 45-minute jet boat ride will blow your mind. As a perk, you don’t even need to deal with the splashes, if you don’t want to—that’s because this jet boat has interior and exterior seating. Choose wisely, as these are Class 5 rapids that you’ll speed through.
Helicopter Ride Over Niagara Falls
There are a few ways to see Niagara Falls—and the grandest might be from the sky. This helicopter tour takes you on a quick flight over the falls and the surrounding area. It also includes the chance to enjoy a VR experience at the Rainbow Air facility, in addition to your flight.
Private Guided Tour with Trolley Ride
You’ve got the best of both worlds with this tour. You get to go on a trolley ride that gives you an overview of the US side of the falls. In addition to the trolley ride, you also get a private tour to the area’s top landmarks, including Three Sisters Island, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.
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