Niagara Falls: Skylon Tower, Boat Ride & Behind the Falls Tour

Summary

Niagara falls boat cruise skylon tower journey behind the falls with city highlights

You’ll ride up Skylon Tower for sweeping views, step into echoing tunnels behind Niagara Falls’ crashing curtain, and get drenched on a boat cruise right into the mist. With stops at places like Dufferin Islands and the famous Floral Clock (plus easy hotel pickup), expect more than just sightseeing — you’ll actually feel Niagara’s wild energy up close.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is my ears popping as we shot up in that glass elevator at Skylon Tower — someone’s kid pressed their nose to the window and left a smudge, which made me laugh. Up top, it’s just this wild sweep of water and mist and tiny people below; our guide, Steve, pointed out all three Niagara Falls (I didn’t realize there were three until then) and you could see how the river just keeps going. The wind was cold enough to sting, but honestly I barely noticed because everyone was craning for photos or just staring. I tried to spot our hotel but got distracted by a hawk circling over the gorge.

We piled back into the van and drove down to Journey Behind the Falls — I wasn’t ready for how loud it gets down there. You walk these damp tunnels, carved right into the rock, and then suddenly you’re standing behind this wall of water that shakes your ribs. The spray smells like river stones and something green. Steve told us about old daredevils who went over in barrels (he said most didn’t make it). It’s weirdly peaceful once you step back from the noise — just dripping stone and your own heartbeat.

The boat ride was next (they handed out those red ponchos but my shoes still got soaked). We drifted so close to Horseshoe Falls that I couldn’t hear anything except water pounding everywhere — it felt like being inside a drum. Some people cheered when we hit the thickest mist; others just closed their eyes. Afterward, my hair smelled like river for hours. We did a slow drive around town after that: Dufferin Islands looked almost too green, there was a stop at this giant Floral Clock (I still don’t get how they keep it so perfect), and Steve waved at some locals who were fishing by Whirlpool Rapids. He knew everyone.

I keep thinking about that moment behind the falls — how small you feel with all that power right above your head. If you’re looking for something polished or quiet, maybe skip it. But if you want to feel Niagara with your whole body, this tour does it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Niagara Falls sightseeing and boat tour

• Visit Skylon Tower observation deck
• Explore Journey Behind the Falls tunnels
• Take Hornblower Niagara Cruises boat tour
• See Whirlpool Rapids
• Stop at Dufferin Islands park
• View Sir Adam Beck Generating Station
• Visit Floral Clock garden

Top questions

How long does this Niagara Falls tour last?

The full tour typically takes around 4-5 hours including all stops.

Is hotel pickup included in Niagara Falls?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for downtown Niagara Falls hotels.

What attractions are covered on this tour?

You visit Skylon Tower observation deck, Journey Behind the Falls, take a boat cruise (seasonal), see Dufferin Islands, Whirlpool Rapids, Sir Adam Beck Generating Station, Old Scow, International Control Dam, and Floral Clock.

Is the Niagara City Cruises boat ride available year-round?

No, it's seasonal from May to October; in winter it's replaced with Niagara Takes Flight or similar attractions.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all attractions and transportation are wheelchair accessible.

Are entry fees included for all attractions?

Yes, skip-the-line entry fees are included for Skylon Tower and Journey Behind the Falls; boat tickets are also included when operating.

What should I wear on this tour?

Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers; expect to get wet during the boat ride even with provided ponchos.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Niagara Falls by Mercedes luxury van; skip-the-line entry tickets for Skylon Tower observation deck and Journey Behind the Falls; seasonal access to either Niagara City Cruises boat ride or Niagara Takes Flight; plus guided narration throughout stops like Dufferin Islands and Floral Clock before returning comfortably at the end of your adventure.