Niagara Falls Canada: Helicopter, Boat & Skylon Lunch Tour

Summary

Soar above Niagara Falls then walk behind thundering water with lunch views

You’ll feel Niagara’s power from every angle: soaring above by helicopter, standing behind crashing water, braving the mist on a boat ride, then relaxing over lunch with panoramic views at Skylon Tower. With hotel pickup and a local guide handling all details, there’s space to just be swept along by wonder.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll just say it: I nearly missed the pickup because I thought I had time for “just one more” coffee — but our guide (her name was Priya) waved me in with a grin and didn’t make a fuss. That set the tone for the whole Niagara Falls Canada tour: relaxed, kind of forgiving, and way more fun than I expected for something this packed. We started with the helicopter ride, which honestly made my stomach do that rollercoaster drop thing. The headset crackled as we lifted off, and suddenly there was all that green water churning below, mist curling up like smoke. It’s louder than you think up there — not scary, just wild.

Afterwards we did the Journey Behind the Falls. You take this elevator down (it smells a bit like wet stone and metal), and then you’re in these tunnels carved right behind all that water. Priya pointed out little things in the rock — she said sometimes you can feel vibrations through your shoes if you stand still long enough. I tried it; maybe it was my imagination but I swear my toes buzzed. The spray outside is cold and sharp on your face — don’t bother trying to stay dry.

The boat ride came next (Voyage To The Falls), and everyone laughed when we put on those red ponchos that never really fit right. There’s this moment when you get close to Horseshoe Falls where conversation just stops because it’s so loud and so much water is moving at once, you know? It’s not peaceful exactly — more like being inside a drum. After drying off a bit, we headed up Skylon Tower for lunch in the revolving restaurant. The bread was warm, and my window seat actually spun past the falls every few minutes — I kept losing track of my fork watching people point out rainbows below.

We ended with a drive past some old landmarks (the hydro plants look almost sleepy compared to everything else). On the way back Priya told us about growing up nearby — she said her dad used to bring her here after school for ice cream and now she brings her own kids sometimes. That stuck with me for some reason; maybe because this place feels huge but also kind of personal if you let it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Niagara Falls sightseeing and activities

• Driving tour of Niagara Falls landmarks
• Explore 10 acres of island paradise
• Descend elevator to Journey Behind the Falls
• Experience Journey Behind the Falls observation decks
• Walk next to Niagara Falls waterfall
• Take Niagara Helicopters scenic flight
• Enjoy lunch at Skylon Tower Revolving Dining Room
• Join Voyage to the Falls boat tour

Top questions

How long does the Niagara Falls Canada tour last?

The full tour typically lasts most of the day, including all main activities plus hotel pickup and drop-off.

Is lunch included during the Niagara Falls tour?

Yes, lunch is included at the Summit Suite Buffet in Skylon Tower overlooking Niagara Falls.

What’s included in the helicopter ride?

The helicopter ride lasts about 12 minutes and offers aerial views of Niagara Falls’ main features.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

Yes, free hotel pickup and drop-off are included for guests staying nearby.

Are tours available year-round?

Tours run year-round; however, the boat ride operates May–October only and is replaced by other attractions in winter.

Is this Niagara Falls tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, children are welcome; infants may need to sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Are attractions wheelchair accessible?

All main attractions on this tour are wheelchair accessible.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

The tour runs rain or shine; many activities are indoors or provide rain protection as needed.

What’s included

Your day includes free hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned mini-van, skip-the-line entry to Journey Behind The Falls and Skylon Tower buffet lunch, a 12-minute scenic helicopter flight over Niagara Falls (or seasonal alternatives), plus a Voyage To The Falls boat cruise from May to October — all guided by a friendly local expert who takes care of logistics so you can focus on soaking it all in.