Niagara Falls: Skylon Tower, Boat Cruise & Journey Behind

Summary

Up-close with Niagara’s roar glass elevators misty tunnels city cruise

You’ll ride up Skylon Tower for sweeping Niagara Falls views, descend into echoing tunnels behind Horseshoe Falls where you can feel the thunder under your feet, then board a seasonal boat cruise right into the mist (or an immersive flight ride in winter). Expect laughter, wet shoes, local stories—and maybe a moment that sticks with you after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to catch my breath before we were in that glass elevator, shooting up the side of the Skylon Tower. It’s funny how your stomach flips when you see all three falls—Bridal Veil, Horseshoe, American—spread out like that. Our guide, Mark (born and raised here), pointed out little details I’d never have noticed—the way the river curls, the old hydro plant far off. It was busy but not rushed; people pressed their faces to the glass and someone’s kid kept saying “wow” over and over. Honestly, same.

We took the Incline Railway down—just a minute or so, but it saved our legs. The air changed as soon as we got close to Journey Behind the Falls. There’s this cold dampness that seeps into your sleeves, and even before you hear it, you feel a low rumble through your shoes. The tunnels are rough and echoey; water drips everywhere. At one point I reached out just to touch the stone wall—slick and cold—and tried to imagine being here in winter. Mark told us about how locals sometimes come just for the sound when they need to clear their head.

The boat cruise was next (Niagara City Cruises—they run May through October). They hand you these red ponchos but honestly? My shoes still got soaked. The mist is everywhere; it tastes like minerals and river water, which sounds weird but it’s true. Everyone laughed when we got close—the wind whipped my hood back and I could barely hear myself think over the falls’ roar. In colder months they swap this for something called Niagara Takes Flight instead; Mark said it’s actually pretty fun if you’re not into getting drenched.

I keep thinking about how loud it all was—the kind of noise that fills your chest until you forget what quiet feels like. When we said goodbye outside Skylon Tower again, my hair was a mess and my phone was full of blurry photos but I felt lighter somehow. You don’t really get used to that much water moving at once—you just stand there for a second longer than you meant to.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Niagara Falls tour and boat cruise

• Meet guide at Skylon Tower entrance
• Ascend 520 ft to observation deck
• Ride Niagara Falls Incline Railway down
• Explore tunnels behind the Falls
• Take Niagara City Cruises boat tour

Top questions

How long does the Niagara Falls tour take?

The walking tour covers about 2.5 km and usually lasts several hours depending on group pace and season.

Is hotel pickup included for this Niagara Falls tour?

No, hotel pickup isn’t included—you meet your guide outside Skylon Tower.

What do I need to bring for the boat cruise at Niagara Falls?

Ponchos are provided but wear shoes that can get wet; bring a camera (waterproof if possible).

Is Journey Behind the Falls accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?

Strollers are allowed; check accessibility details directly if using a wheelchair as some areas may be narrow or damp.

What happens if I book outside boat cruise season?

From November to May, Niagara Takes Flight replaces the boat cruise—an indoor immersive ride experience.

Are tickets included or do I buy them separately?

Your entry tickets for Skylon Tower, Journey Behind the Falls, Incline Railway, and boat/flight ride are all included with skip-the-line access.

Can infants join this Niagara Falls tour?

Yes—infants can ride in a pram or stroller but must sit on an adult’s lap during certain parts.

What’s included

Your day includes pre-reserved entry to Skylon Tower with fast access up top, tickets for Journey Behind the Falls (no waiting in line), seats on the Incline Railway down toward Horseshoe Falls, plus either a seasonal Niagara City Cruises boat ride or admission to Niagara Takes Flight in colder months—all guided by someone who knows these waters inside out.