Maid of the Mist Boat Rides in Niagara Falls, New York

The Maid of the Mist Boat tour in Niagara Falls is one of those activities that forms an integral part of the overall experience — and this water-soaked voyage has featured in movies and TV series, becoming an undeniable part of American culture.

Setting out from the specialized dock on the Niagara River, you’ll travel upstream to each of the three falls that make up the Niagara Falls. This unforgettable experience will allow you to feel the sheer power as 3.1 million liters plunge over the falls every second — granting you a first-hand account of why many believe a visit to Niagara Falls is incomplete without donning the trademark recyclable blue raincoat.

Here's all you need to know about Maid of the Mist boat tours, one of the most captivating opportunities for sightseeing in Niagara Falls, New York.

What are the best Maid of the Mists tours in Niagara Falls?

The Maid of the Mist boat tour is operated by a single company, ensuring that each trip to the falls is of the same quality. However, this does not mean that you won't have unique options to choose from, with many different types of tours available.

Self-guided Niagara Falls trip with Maid of the Mist boat tour

This is a great option if you are already staying in Niagara Falls, or have the means of traveling there on your own. While entering Niagara Falls Park is free, your pre-purchased ticket allows you to board the Maid of the Mist boat tour. An elevator services the boarding area, making it convenient to access.

Once on board the Maid of the Mist, you’ll sail upstream visiting the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls and finally the Horseshoe Falls. Be prepared to get absolutely drenched whilst onboard, following in the footsteps of countless visitors who came before you.

As soon as you’re back on land, you may shed your blue raincoat and dry off, ready to explore the other points of interest. You can later make your way to the Cave of the Winds and the Observation Tower, both of which provide mesmerizing views of the falls.

Maid of the Mist and Niagara Falls guided group tour

A guided group tour is one of the most popular ways of traveling to Niagara Falls and enjoying a Maid of the Mist tour. After meeting your guide in Niagara Falls and listening to a brief introduction, you’ll head out, first exploring all of the park’s viewing platforms during a Niagara Falls walking tour.

All the while, you’ll be gearing up for the main attraction, the world-famous Maid of the Mist boat tour. Listen as your guide regales you with stories about the boat tour's fascinating — and sometimes tumultuous — history, stretching all the way back to its maiden voyage in 1846.

Next, it's time for you to add your own experience to a boat tour that’s been delighting visitors for close to 200 years. Head out onto the waters and experience the might and power of the falls before returning to dry land to shake off the water.

Finally, you’ll head to two other must-visit attractions on the American side of the Niagara Falls, visiting the observation tower and the Cave of the Winds. Following this, it's time to wave your guide goodbye and head back home.

Small group Maid of the Mist boat tour in Niagara Falls

A small group tour to Niagara Falls allows a better overall experience of the Falls. With fewer people exploring the park’s many sights, you won’t have to jostle for a good view or ask the guide to repeat something for the umpteenth time. This amazing outing is also a great option for couples, families or a groups of friends.

Your guide will also help you chart an effective course through the park, avoiding crowded attractions and coming back when there are fewer people. The Maid of the Mist boat tour has a fixed capacity for passengers, so the smaller group size doesn’t really come into effect on board. After the boat tour, you’ll head to the observation tower and Cave of the Winds, before returning home.

Are there any combos available with Maid of the Mists boat tours in Niagara Falls?

Combining your Maid of the Mist voyage with another activity is a great way to get the best out of your visit to Niagara Falls.

Canadian side Maid of the Mist small group tour with lunch

This combination tour ensures that you’ll definitely get your money’s worth, even crossing the border to do so. You’ll start the day with a convenient hotel pickup service, heading the the State-side Niagara Falls Park.

Explore the park with the help of your guide, before heading down to the riverside to board the Maid of the Mist. Enjoy spectacular up-close views of the falls with a trademark blue raincoat keeping you dry. Then it's back to terra firma and you’ll hop the border, heading to the Table Rock Visitors’ Center on the Canadian side of the falls.

The Canadian side of Niagara Falls has long been famous for the breathtaking views of the Falls and you’ll be able to view the full length of this natural wonder, all the way from the American Falls to the Horseshow Falls.

Just when you thought the view couldn’t get any better, you’ll head up the road to the Skylon Tower — a 160-meter-tall tower offering unbeatable views of the falls. While the view is to die for, the pièce de résistance is the rotating restaurant at the top. Grab your table, and enjoy a drink and a delicious meal while admiring one of the best views in the world.

Niagara Falls private trip with Maid of the Mist boat and helicopter tour

Why waste your time with view platforms and towers when you can instead take to the sky with the help of a helicopter tour of Niagara Falls? That’s exactly what’s on offer during this combination tour — but first, you’ll explore Niagara Falls Fark on foot, before getting onboard the Maid of the Mist boat tour.

This experience will allow you an awe-inspiring up-close view of the falls, helping you come to grips with the sheer scope of the falls. Finally, you’ll exchange water for air as you climb aboard your helicopter for an indelible journey over the falls. The flight lasts a total of 45 minutes, and you’ll journey all the way to Niagara Gorge and the world’s largest whirlpool.

What will I see and do?

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

The Maid of the Mist boat tour has an amazing legacy, dating back all the way to 1846 — when it replaced the dangerous activity of using row boats to get a closer look at the falls.

Originally steam-powered, it was used to ferry goods across the river, before the construction of a bridge negated its necessity. The owners soon rebranded the boat as a sightseeing vessel, and the rest is history. During its illustrious existence, it has hosted royalty, presidents and a slew of celebrities.

Niagara Falls Park

Niagara Falls Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the USA and it’s home to the Maid of the Mist boat tour. The covers 180 hectares, with a litany of viewing platforms strewn throughout — ensuring you’ll always find an amazing view.

The park is open right through the year, offering startlingly different views and experiences, depending on the season.

Table Rock Visitors’ Centre

The Table Rock Visitors’ Centre forms the linchpin of activities on the Canadian Side of Niagara Falls. It features a state-of-the-art information center, a market with delicious food stalls and a restaurant with mouthwatering dishes. It’s also where you’ll find the Journey Behind the Falls experience — the flagship activity on this side of the border.

What are the prices of Maid of the Mist boat tours in Niagara Falls?

Self-guided trips to Niagara Falls with a Maid of the Mist boat tour costs US$50 per person. This only includes the boat tour, so you’ll need to organize your own transport to Niagara Falls.

For Maid of the Mist and Niagara Falls guided group tours expect to pay US$90 per person. However, you’ll be part of a much larger tour group with up to 35 people joining the trip.

Typically, small group Maid of the Mist boat tour in Niagara Falls cost US$170 per person. Groups are limited to seven people, ensuring a much more personal experience.

Combination Canadian side Maid of the Mist small group tours with lunch cost US$250 per person. These are smaller outings, with only six people on the trip, and includes lunch at the top of the Skylon Tower.

Private combination tours to Niagara Falls with a Maid of the Mist boat and helicopter tour will set you back US$380 per person. There’s a minimum of 2 people needed for a tour, with groups capped at six travelers.

What do the boat tours include?

There’s no entrance fee to Niagara Falls, but the Maid of the Mist boat tour does require a ticket. This is included in all tours and the ticket is valid for 12 months.

All tours, apart from the self-guided ones, include a local guide and a visit to the park’s main attractions. More expensive tour options may include transport, and lunch, as well as additionaly activities such as helicopter flights.

Where do they start?

Maid of the Mist boat tours always start on the US side of the river. You can either make your way there on your own or as part of a larger guided tour.

These tours usually depart from a nearby landmark, like the Niagara Falls Hard Rock Cafe, but this should be confirmed with the tour company. Some of the longer, more expensive tours include a pickup service.

How long do they last?

The Maid of the Mist boat tour lasts for around 45 minutes, but trips offering this expedition may last anywhere from 2 to 8 hours. Shorter trips tend to only include activities in Niagara Falls Park, while longer expeditions sometimes even include a quick hop across the border into Canada.

Are they wheelchair friendly?

Yes, Maid of the Mist boat tours are wheelchair friendly and most of the Niagara Falls Park is accessible to people with limited mobility. In any case, contact your tour provider to confirm the details.

When is the best time for a Maid of the Mist boat tour in Niagara Falls?

The best time for a Maid of the Mist boat tour at Niagara Falls is late spring through early fall, typically May to September. During this period, you'll enjoy warmer weather and fuller water flow, enhancing the experience. Early morning or late afternoon tours are less crowded. Avoid the weekends for a more relaxed experience with smaller crowds.

Travel tips

• Especially during peak season, book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and ensure a spot on the boat.
• Wear waterproof clothing or a poncho, as you will get wet from the mist. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential for safety on the wet deck.
• If you plan to visit the Canadian side, ensure you have the necessary documentation for border crossing.
• There are concession stands around, but you might want to bring your own snacks, especially if you have dietary restrictions.