Niagara Falls Ontario is a place where natural wonder meets a constant buzz of activity. It’s a destination that invites you to get up close and personal with one of the world’s most famous waterfalls. Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventures like a zipline ride or more relaxed sightseeing options like ascending the Skylon Tower, there’s something for every type of traveler. What makes Niagara particularly special is the blend of outdoor adventure and easily accessible attractions, all within a compact area that’s perfect for exploring in a day or two.
We’ve sifted through the many offerings and selected the top 16 tours that showcase Niagara Falls in ways that are memorable, fun, and worth the price. From awe-inspiring boat rides to behind-the-scenes tunnels, these options highlight what makes this area one of the most exciting destinations in North America.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of adventurous and leisurely experiences. You can enjoy a premium boat tour that gets you close to the falls, go sky-high on the Skylon Tower, or experience the thrill of jet boating through rapids. There are also family-friendly shows like the Wild Magic illusion and evening fireworks cruises. For a bird’s-eye view, consider the helicopter ride, or for a truly unique perspective, try the zipline that glides past the American and Horseshoe Falls. If you want a full day, the Toronto day trip combines Niagara’s highlights with additional attractions. The options below cover all tastes and budgets, giving you a well-rounded choice of what to see and do.
1. Niagara Falls: Premium Tour, Boat & Journey Behind the Falls
At number 1, this award-winning small group tour offers an immersive experience with a variety of top highlights. You’ll start with the Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour, which takes you into the water to feel the thunder and mist of the falls—perfect for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. Then, you’ll ascend the Skylon Tower in its distinctive yellow elevators for a panoramic view from 520 feet above. The tour also includes descending into tunnels at the Journey Behind the Falls, giving you a behind-the-curtain experience of the thundering water from below. The tour lasts about 4 hours and costs $150 per person, a good value considering the variety of experiences.
This tour is well-rated at 4.8/5 with over 4,100 reviews, and it’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive and personalized experience. The mix of water, height, and underground exploration makes it stand out. Expect a lively, engaging guide who’ll share interesting stories along the way.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a full, active morning with incredible views and close encounters with the falls. It’s great for first-timers who want it all in one go.
2. Niagara Falls, Canada: Skylon Tower Observation Deck Ticket
Number 2 on our list offers a simple but spectacular way to see Niagara. For just $17, you get a Skylon Tower ticket that includes a glass-enclosed elevator ride and access to both indoor and outdoor observation decks. The tower rises 236 meters, providing a breathtaking 360° view of the waterfalls, city, and even on clear days, the distant Lake Ontario. It’s a flexible ticket, so you can visit any time within a day, and the night views with illumination and fireworks are especially stunning.
Rated 4.6/5 from over 2,100 reviews, visitors love the value for money and the panoramic vistas. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a quick, easy way to see the falls from above without committing to a full tour.
Bottom line: Ideal for budget-conscious visitors or those wanting a convenient, high-altitude view with flexible timing.
3. Niagara Falls, ON: Jet Boat Tour on Niagara River
Number 3 is the Jet Boat Tour, a 45-minute thrill ride that zips through Class 5 rapids on the Niagara River. You can choose to stay dry or get soaked as you race past the American Falls and explore the river’s exciting currents. The tour offers a mix of adventure and scenic beauty—perfect if you’re looking for a rush. During the ride, you’ll learn about the river’s history from knowledgeable guides, and the experience is rated 4.8/5 based on over 1,100 reviews.
The $66 price makes it a good value for an adrenaline-packed activity, especially since guests often describe it as “a once-in-a-lifetime rush.” It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind getting wet and love fast-paced outdoor adventures.
Bottom line: If you crave excitement and want to see the rapids up close, this jet boat ride is a must-do. It’s a fun alternative to more traditional sightseeing.
4. Niagara Falls, Canada: Evening Fireworks Cruise
Number 4 offers a magical nighttime experience—an Evening Fireworks Cruise that lets you see the illuminated falls and dazzling fireworks from the water. For just $35, you’ll glide along the Niagara River for 40 minutes, enjoying panoramic views of the skyline and the falls lit up in a kaleidoscope of colors. The cruise departs from Niagara Falls, Canada, and includes a ride on the famous funicular down to the gorge, adding to the scenic journey.
Rated 4.5/5 with rave reviews on the ambiance and romantic atmosphere, this tour is perfect for couples or families wanting a memorable evening. Watching fireworks light the falls and skyline is an experience that stays with you.
Bottom line: A romantic, visually stunning choice for seeing Niagara at its most enchanting after dark.
5. Niagara Falls, ON: Helicopter Ride with Boat & Skylon Lunch
At number 5, this luxury combo combines the thrill of flying over the falls with a delicious lunch at Skylon Tower and a behind-the-scenes peek of the waterfalls on the Voyage To The Falls boat tour. For around $320, it’s a longer, more indulgent experience lasting about 5.5 hours. The helicopter ride offers breathtaking bird’s-eye views of the entire Niagara region, while the underground tour reveals the falls from beneath. Guests rave about the spectacular scenery and “once-in-a-lifetime” photography opportunities.
This tour suits travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity—ideal if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to splurge on a truly memorable experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a premium experience with multiple perspectives of Niagara Falls, from sky to water to underground.
6. Niagara Falls Tour: Skylon, Journey Behind Falls & Boat Ride
Number 6 offers a well-rounded guided experience that hits all the major sights. You’ll ascend the Skylon Tower, explore the tunnels at Journey Behind the Falls, and then enjoy a seasonal boat cruise. At $108 per person and rated 4.7/5 on over 1,100 reviews, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a guided tour with highlights. The guide provides engaging commentary, and the combination of heights, underground tunnels, and water makes for an engaging day.
The tour is especially good for those who prefer guided insights and want to see the top three attractions in a single package.
Bottom line: A great pick if you want an informative, comprehensive overview of Niagara Falls with convenience.
7. Niagara Falls: Early Access Boat & Journey Behind the Falls
This early morning tour lets you beat the crowds with exclusive skip-the-line access to the boat and tunnels. For $114, you’ll start with the first boat ride, ensuring fewer people and more intimate views. You’ll also ride the elevator into the gorge and explore behind the waterfall at Journey Behind the Falls. Rated 4.6/5, guests love the quiet atmosphere and how much closer you can get in the early hours.
Ideal for early risers and those who prefer a less crowded, more relaxed experience without sacrificing key sights.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who value priority access and a quieter, more exclusive experience.
8. Niagara Falls: Boat Trip & Journey Behind the Falls Tour
Number 8 combines a comprehensive water and underground experience for $86. With a boat ride and a guided walk through tunnels at Journey Behind the Falls, this 3-hour tour offers an excellent balance of action and insight. The tour includes panoramic viewpoints and in-depth stories of the falls’ history, with a 7:45 am departure to beat the crowds. It’s rated 4.6/5 from nearly 1,400 reviews, emphasizing its value and engaging guides.
This tour is ideal if you want to combine water, history, and underground views in one outing.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a well-rounded visit with a focus on both the waterfalls and their stories.
9. Niagara Falls, Canada: Zipline to The Falls
Number 9 offers a thrilling zipline ride that whisks you 67 meters above the gorge, flying past the American Falls toward the Horseshoe Falls. For $69, you get a 1.5-hour adrenaline rush rated 4.4/5 with over 2,200 reviews. The ride covers 670 meters of exhilarating scenery, providing unobstructed views of the gorge and waterfalls. It’s suitable for those seeking high-energy adventure and spectacular photos.
Guests describe it as “a breathtaking rush,” making it a popular choice for adventure seekers.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers craving a heart-pumping view that’s unlike any other.
10. Niagara Falls, Canada: Wild Magic Show Ticket
Number 10 features the Wild Magic Show, featuring illusionist Greg Frewin. For only $21, you get a 1.5-hour family-friendly magic show rated 4.7/5. The show combines large illusions with close-up magic, all in a luxurious theatre near Clifton Hill. It’s a fun night activity that appeals to children and adults alike, offering an immersive magic experience.
Perfect for families or anyone looking for lighter entertainment after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom line: A captivating, family-friendly show that’s great for a relaxed evening outing.
11. Niagara Falls: Boat, Journey Behind the Falls, & Tower Tour
This all-in-one guided tour combines three key attractions for $130. Guests can enjoy the boat cruise (when available), ascend the Skylon Tower, and explore the tunnels at Journey Behind the Falls. Rated 4.7/5, it’s praised for its comprehensive coverage and interesting commentary. The tour also includes narrated stops at significant viewpoints like the Whirlpool and Brink of the Falls.
Ideal for travelers wanting to see everything in one day with knowledgeable guidance.
Bottom line: Suitable for those who desire a full, guided overview of Niagara’s main attractions.
12. Niagara Falls: Guided Tour with Behind the Falls & Boat Ride
Rated an impressive 4.9/5, this 2.5-hour guided tour offers priority access to the Journey Behind the Falls and the Voyage to the Falls cruise. It includes professional guided commentary and minimizes wait times, making it an efficient way to experience Niagara.
Great for travelers who want expert insights and fast track access to top sights.
Bottom line: A top pick for those who want a guided, streamlined experience with less waiting.
13. Niagara Falls, Canada: Niagara SkyWheel Ticket
Number 13 is a budget-friendly option at just $12 for an 8-minute ride on the Niagara SkyWheel. Soar 175 feet above the falls in a climate-controlled gondola, enjoying spectacular aerial views. It’s perfect for a quick and easy photo opportunity, especially at sunset or at night when the falls are illuminated.
Rated 4.4/5, visitors love the value and panoramic vistas from this iconic ride.
Bottom line: Best for quick snapshots and those on a tight schedule or budget.
14. Toronto: Niagara Falls Day & Evening Tour + Top Attractions
For a full-day experience, this Toronto: Niagara Falls Day & Evening Tour combines transportation, sightseeing, and options to add dinner, fireworks, and more. It lasts about 10 hours, with skip-the-line access for major attractions like the Hornblower and Journey Behind the Falls. It’s rated 4.7/5 by travelers who appreciate the convenience and full itinerary.
Ideal for visitors staying in Toronto who want a comprehensive trip with the flexibility of optional upgrades.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a guided, all-in-one experience with the convenience of a full-day tour.
15. Niagara Falls, Canada: Early Bird Zip Line to The Falls
Early risers can enjoy this early morning zipline that zips past the American Falls and onto the Horseshoe Falls for $60. Rated 4.6/5, it’s a quick, adrenaline-packed ride that offers spectacular views before the crowds arrive. The ride covers 670 meters and provides unobstructed panoramic views of the gorge.
This experience is ideal for thrill-seekers who want to start their day with a high-energy adventure.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want to beat the crowds and get an up-close view with an adrenaline rush.
16. Walking Tour of Niagara Falls Canada and Hornblower Boat
Last but not least, this 1.5-hour walking tour combines a guided stroll through the key sights with an up-close boat cruise on the Hornblower. For $71, it’s a great introductory experience, especially for first-timers wanting to combine guided insights with waterfront thrills. The tour covers the most iconic spots and offers an authentic look at Niagara.
Rated 4.7/5, it’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced, informative introduction** and don’t mind walking.
Bottom line: A fantastic choice for those who want a guided walk and boat experience all in one.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your perfect Niagara Falls experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and interest in adventure or relaxation. If you’re after a comprehensive, all-in-one tour, the Niagara Falls: Premium Tour, Boat & Journey Behind the Falls offers an excellent mix. For a breathtaking view from above, the Skylon Tower is unbeatable and inexpensive. If adrenaline is your thing, the Zipline to The Falls or Jet Boat Tour should be on your list.
For those seeking luxury, the Helicopter Ride with Boat & Skylon Lunch provides a premium package, while families will enjoy the Wild Magic Show for its entertainment value.
Booking early, especially for popular options like the boat rides and ziplining, helps avoid disappointment. Consider the season—summer months bring larger crowds but better weather, while winter offers unique views with fewer travelers.
Final Thoughts
Niagara Falls Ontario offers a diverse array of tours catering to all interests and budgets. If you’re looking for adventure, the zipline or jet boat are perfect picks. For spectacular views, the Skylon Tower or the SkyWheel are quick and scenic options. Families and those wanting a mix of entertainment and exploration will love the Wild Magic Show or guided tours.
With so many options, it’s wise to plan ahead and choose experiences that match your interests and energy level. Booking early guarantees you won’t miss out on the most popular tours. No matter what you pick, Niagara Falls promises unforgettable memories—so get your camera ready and dive into the adventure.
Whether you’re after exhilarating rides, panoramic vistas, or behind-the-scenes looks, Niagara Falls Ontario’s tour lineup has something exciting for every traveler. Use this guide to help plan your perfect trip, and don’t forget to book early for the best experiences.