Watch 2 million liters of water fall before your eyes as you board the Maid of the Mist. On your next visit to Niagara, live an unforgettable adventure aboard this iconic cruise ship. There is no other place to see the falls like this.
Ana Caballero
9 min read
Maid of the Mist waterfall tour begins | © Mustang Joe
Nothing gets you closer to North America's famous waterfalls than the world-famous Maid of the Mist cruise. This ride operates in Niagara Falls (New York) and the Ontario (Canada) side of the falls.
for20 minutes, you will experience a journey into the heart of the falls as they roar down from above. This is a unique experience you will love. Not in vain on this listBest attractions in Niagara Falls.
goddess of the mist isNorth America's Oldest Tourist Attraction.alreadyCelebrities from all walks of life visitAs well as celebrities like Princess Diana, Marilyn Monroe, former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbychev, and Brad Pitt, visiting the base of the falls should be a top priority for everyone visiting the area.
Many tour packages include admission to this experience., but even if they don't, you can just buy a boat ticket. Either way, no trip to Niagara is complete without a ride on the Maid of the Mist.
What is it like to ride the Maid of the Mist?
Prepare to Get Wet: It's Actually the Maid of the Mistthrow you under the waterfallMany say it's one of the best ways to experience the splendor of Niagara Falls. In fact, it's one of the best tour guides in the area.
After purchasing tickets, elevators take passengers to the terminal. Passengers are given a plastic rain poncho to keep them from getting completely wet. You're going to get wet anyway. Find a spot next to the railing for the best (and wettest) view.
As you get closer and closer to the waterfall,See the 50-foot-tall walls of the Niagara Gorge downstream, carved over hundreds of thousands of years as waterfalls eroded the rock.
As they approached the falls, the sound of the water turned to thunder, and the boat's two 350-horsepower diesel engines hummed upstream. passenger screaminglike a ride in an amusement park, but they are perfectly safe.
Book a 2-day cruise on Maid of the Mist
Key points about this cruise
per shipCan accommodate up to 600 peopleAnd it's quite a crowded experience, so not recommended for the most claustrophobic of people.
Before boarding, you'll see staff ready to guide you, and there are restrooms before you start queuing to board. You should definitely take advantage of this as you will see a lot of water flow during your ride.
While the memories from this trip will last a lifetime, the experience itself lasts up to 20 minutes. **Don't stop to tie your shoes or blink because you'll miss it.
**It will be a race to the perimeter of the boat as you get on board. So be prepared to grab a spot, preferably on the top floor for the best views.
What Other Travelers Say About Maid of the Mist Cruises
recent visitors say youI can't leave Niagara Falls without taking the Maid of the Mist.In addition to the incredible views, tourists are also pleased with the duration of the trip (20 minutes) and low ticket prices.
Maid of the Mist boat as part of an organized tour
There is so much to see in Niagara Falls, it isPlanning a trip by yourself can be difficult. Therefore, organized travel becomes the best option. The best part is, this is a process that you can complete online in most cases.
On the other hand, one of the advantages of a guided tour is that most components of a tour like this are prepackaged. Accommodation and transfers are usually included, as well as ample meals and sightseeing. In addition to this, Niagara Falls park tour also includes such aswind tunnelTickets or the Maid of the Mist cruise, you get a package deal.
There are guides to suit every budget,From basic backpacking to five-star luxuryand all inclusive tour guide. Ideally you should book your tickets and tours well in advance as they are often very crowded.
Book a 2-day cruise on Maid of the Mist
Self-driving Maid of the Mist
Maid of the Mist TicketsThey go on direct sale from 9am.. On the pier inside Niagara Falls State Park. There are several pre-sales directly on its official website, but these sell out quickly and are seasonal.
The good thing about these tickets is that there are no specific dates, but you'll have to wait in line anyway, even if you pre-order. This is because you must exchange your purchased tickets for tickets.
Maid of the Mist Cruise Dates and Times
All passengers will receive aRecyclable rain poncho keeps your clothes dry, as they will be exposed to an experience that can only be described as impressive.Maid of the Mist tours run annually from April to Octoberyear, depending on weather conditions. Boarding is possible from the American side of the falls,Every 15 minutes during high season.
Find out about Maid of the Mist ticket prices
Depending on the season, tickets for the Maid of the Mist can cost up toAdults 25 eurosuntilChildren 12 euros6 to 12 years old. Children 5 and under are free, but there must be at least 1 adult present for every 4 children.
How to Find the Maid of the Mist Ship Stops in the Park
The Maid of the Mist is docked on the Lower Niagara River at the site of the former Schoellkopf Power Station at Niagara Falls.
1- fromNiagara Falls State ParkVisitor Parking and you'll just walk the 300+ yards to the Maid of the Mist port of call.
2- You must look east to findNiagara Adventure TheaterIts façade faces the waterfall.
3- Then via NiagaraFalls Fireworks Observation DeckYou will see the location of the port.
Tips to keep in mind when visiting Niagara Falls and riding the Maid of the Mist
- Don't be hotweekend. Lines can last up to two hours, and the summer heat can spoil the experience.
- If you go on a holiday weekend and it's hot, it is best to wait until there are fewer people queuing behind.
- Bring water and an umbrella..I recommend bringing a small umbrella that you can fold up and put in your bag or backpack. They put you on something like this, though you can confirm it on their website.
- If your physical condition allows, I recommendclimb to the next stepfrom the falls. You'll get wet, but the views are amazing.
- Be careful with children!I'm not kidding. There are some potentially hazardous locations that could result in personal injury. Be aware of your surroundings. Hold tight for little ones' hands or secure them in a stroller.
- If you have a waterproof camera at hand, please bring it, if not,Be careful not to get your phone too wet.
Best Parking in Niagara Falls
entrance is throughNiagara Falls State Park, you'll see banners from various businesses directing you to their own private car parks. attemptState Park Parkingthe first; they are cheaper and closer to the falls.
Prospect Point has a year-round car park. There are also two car parks on nearby Goat Island. Entrance fees for vehicles vary from €6 to €9, depending on the season. Parking is free if you hold an annual state park passport.
travel tips
If the weather is nice and you want to have a picnic in the area, you can do so if you are well prepared. It's also a great way to save money.
what to see during a cruise
The Maid of the Mist Tour remains the most popular attraction in Niagara Falls State Parkover 150 years.The dramatic walk takes you through the waterfall's turbulent waters and massive rock formations:
- The journey begins withwatchtower, visitors will receive a souvenir poncho and board the double-decker Maid of the Mist cruise ship.
- From there, the ship passed the American Falls base and arrived atHorseshoe FallsCuenca.
- The majestic view of Niagara Falls is the main attraction of this tour and words alone cannot describe it.
- ableChoose to stand on deck or stay on boardEnjoy the view of the falls.
- when is the highlight of the tripCaptain leads to the center of the fallsProvide visitors with enviable and unrepeatable views, weather conditions permitting.
- Return to the American side of Niagara Falls State Park at the end of the tour.
Maid of the Mist from the US and Canada
On the Canadian side, a similar cruise is offered: Hornblower Niagara Cruises. The main difference between the Maid of the Mist and the Hornblower is the story behind it. Although Hornblower has been around for more than 35 years, it has only offered Niagara River cruises since 2014.The routes taken by both ships were the same., the only difference is that Hornblower also offers night cruises with lights and fireworks.
You can combine both tours, but if you must choose,Location is the best way to decideIn the debate between the Maid of the Mist and Hornblower:
- if you stay in the usaFor Niagara Falls, choose the Maid of the Mist.
- if you are over there in canada, Choose Hornblower Niagara Cruises, which is basically the Maid of the Mist in Canada.
price difference
Hornblower Niagara Cruise Adult TicketIt costs about 20 eurosand the Adventure Pass, which includes a trip behind the falls, a white water ride and the 4D Rage of Niagara experience, costs around €28.
This pass also includes a two-day transit pass for the WEGO transit system and coupons for restaurants and shops in Niagara Parks.
Cruises can vary in price even more if you have children. Children under the age of five travel free on the Maid of the Mist when accompanied by an adult, while the Hornblower only allows children under the age of two to travel free. It's a small detail, but one that makes a big difference if you have multiple children.
Differences in date and duration.
Their routes are different too: HornblowerDay sailing from April 1st to November 30th, time permitting. Maid of the Mist ends its season in early November.
These cruises last 40 minutes and sell out quickly, so it's wise to buy tickets in advance. An overnight cruise is more expensive than a day cruise because it's longer, but it's one of the most romantic experiences a trip to Niagara Falls has to offer.
- Maid of the Mist
- Operating time: April to October
- Adult ticket price: about 22 euros
- Children Free: Under 5 years old.
- Starting point: Niagara Falls State Park (USA)
- Hornblower Niagara Cruises
- Operation: April 1st to November 30th
- Adult ticket price: about 22 euros
- Children Free: Under 2 years old.
- Departure point: Niagara Parkway (Canada)
Is Maid of the Mist worth buying?
There are so many things to do in Niagara Falls, USA, it's hard to take it all into consideration.
If you have limited time (e.g. a weekend getaway), it's best to choose a short listthings you have to do.Take the Maid of the Mist cruise ship is definitely one of the experiences you can't miss.
We don't usually like to recommend activities where you have to wait in long lines, but this cruise is definitely worth your time and money. Anyway, take a lookBest Time of Year to Visit Niagara Falls.
Being able to see the waterfall from the river is already a great experience, butInto the heart of this mighty waterFalling, hearing the roar, and feeling the force of the water breaking around you is nothing short of spectacular.
FAQs
How wet do you get on Maid of the Mist tour? ›
These boats have been shuttling visitors to and from the base of the falls since the 1840s. Be prepared to get wet: the Maid of the Mist practically dunks you under the falls, but rain gear is provided and many say that this is one of the best ways to experience the splendor of Niagara Falls.
How many people fit on the Maid of the Mist boat? ›Maid of the Mist V gives passengers the thrill of their lives. It's all steel, 72 feet long, weighs 74 tons and powered by two 335-horsepower diesel engines to safely carry 300 passengers.
Which falls do you see on Maid of the Mist? ›The Maid of the Mist returns guests to shore with newfound appreciation of the power and grandeur of Niagara Falls. For more information on the Maid of the Mist, or to purchase tickets online, please visit the Maid of the Mist website.
Can people ride on the Maid of the Mist boat? ›A historical ride aboard the world-famous Maid of the Mist is a half hour thrill of a lifetime! North America's oldest tourist attraction, millions of visitors have enjoyed the boat tours since 1846.
Can I bring a bag on to the Maid of the Mist? ›Large backpacks can be difficult to fit under your poncho, so pack lightly with a small day pack. If you do not want to get as wet, find a spot on the lower deck. Allow yourself extra time to take in the views from the Observation Tower before or after your ride on Maid of the Mist.
Are ponchos free on Maid of the Mist? ›Even while wearing the complimentary hooded rain poncho we provide you with, you may still get wet on the tour. It's part of truly experiencing Niagara Falls. Please dress accordingly.
Do your feet get wet on Maid of the Mist? ›You will get very wet. The poncho provides pretty good protection, but water always seems to find it's way through. Probably no need to change your clothes after though. You feet will get quite wet since they aren't covered by the ponch, so flip flops would definately be better.
Does Maid of the Mist run in rain? ›Does the Maid of the Mist cancel for rain or... - Maid Of The Mist. “Does the Maid of the Mist cancel for rain or lightning?” The Maid of the Mist boats are able to operate during periods of poor weather such as heavy rain and lightning.
How close does Maid of the Mist get to the falls? ›Short answer: Close enough to get soaked head to toe!
Where is the best spot on Maid of the Mist? ›My preferred spot on the Maid of the Mist tour is the front of the boat, at the bow. You're closer to the water, so you get a view of the current and the spray. The upper deck fills up faster—and that's nice, too, because you get a good lookout from up there. If I were going with my family, I'd take them to the bow.
Is Maid of the Mist tour safe? ›
Above all, Ruddy said, Maid of the Mist offers an experienced staff with a proven record of safety. To date, there have been no serious accidents involving Maid of the Mist boats. “It's a very safe operation,” Ruddy said.
Does Maid of the Mist go behind the falls? ›The Maid of the Mist goes alongside the American Falls before bringing you into the mist of the Horseshoe Falls. It does not go behind Niagara Falls, but the boat travels to the bedrock of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
Can the captain of the Maid of the Mist marry you? ›Get married in the mist.
If you have your heart set on being married by the boat's captain, unfortunately that was only a made-for-TV experience. It's the captain's job to keep everyone safe in the falls so they have no time to marry passengers.
The biggest difference between Maid of the Mist and Hornblower is the history behind them. While the Maid of the Mist has been operating on the Niagara River since 1846, first as a ferry and later as a sightseeing boat, the Hornblower has been operating the Niagara Falls Boat Tour since only 2014.
Can you take pictures on Maid of the Mist? ›Is it safe to bring your fancy camera? The answer is yes! While you do get wet, you do not get soaked. Mist is the key word here!
What parking lot is best for Maid of the Mist? ›- Located at Prospect Point.
- Closest parking to Visitor Center and Maid of the Mist.
- Open year-round* 7 days a week.
- Automobiles only; No RV or Bus parking.
- Credit Card only.
The Maid of the Mist is a sightseeing boat tour of Niagara Falls, starting and ending on the American side, crossing briefly into Canada during a portion of the trip.
What is the difference between Cave of the Winds and Journey Behind the falls? ›The difference between Cave of the Winds and Journey Behind the Falls is Cave of the Winds takes you beside the American Falls in the US, while Journey Behind the Falls brings visitors up close to the Horseshoe Falls in Canada.
What is better Maid of the Mist or Cave of the Winds? ›Both are great; but if you have to chose just one; take the Maid of the Mist. Lots of stairs on the Cave of the Winds tour; so it might be a bit much for a little one.
Do you get wet at Niagara Falls? ›You will not get wet while viewing the spectacular waterfall from Niagara Parkway or Niagara Falls State Park. The misty spray from the Falls may get you slightly wet when you stand at the crest line of the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side.
What is the best time to go on boat ride for Niagara Falls? ›
The best time to go for the Niagara Falls boat ride is early in the morning as soon as it is open. The crowds are fewer and the wait time is less. Midday to late afternoon, you might have to wait for more than an hour to board the boat. The waiting time is also less towards closing time.
How long is the Niagara Falls boat tour? ›The 20-minute Voyage to the Falls boat tour will take you on the journey of a lifetime! Enjoy breathtaking views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, and come face-to-face with the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
What kind of shoes to wear to Niagara Falls? ›A. Running Shoes – For getting around Niagara Falls, running shoes or comfortable walking shoes are ideal. Many of the sights to see are within walking distance of one another, and you won't want to be wearing your best dress shoes for anything involving water.
Do I need a passport for Maid of the Mist? ›Maid of the Mist is on the American side so you won't need your passport if you are an American Citizen. However, on the Canadian side is a boat that is called Horn Blowers. They do the same trip as the Maid of the Mist but unlike the Maid of the Mist they do night tours.
Is Maid of the Mist rough? ›very personal question... but... its not a rough ride, and there is virtually none of the back and forth swaying normally associated with seasickness. its a pretty steady, albeit wet, ride up and back. up to you really, i'd go with my gut (pun fully intended) on this one.
How long is Cave of the Winds tour? ›Explore the electrically lit portion of Cave of the Winds on our most popular family tour! This 45 – 60 minute guided walking tour includes 15 rooms, a 1/2 mile of concrete walkways, and 196 stairs.
Can kids do Maid of the Mist? ›Children under 5 years old can ride free with an adult. These prices include access to the Observation Deck, the Elevator ride, and your ride on the Maid of the Mist. Since you depart and return to the dock in the USA, you will NOT need a passport.
Is the mist actually scary? ›It's a truly spooky film unlike most modern horror films. Darabont puts you right there in that supermarket, surrounded by panicked townsfolk and religious nutcases. Not only is the film scary, it's painfully tragic.
Is The Mist really scary? ›A (Mostly) Fun Monster Flick
This is a fine horror film the will entertain you. Be aware that there is some brief strong gore. And plenty of language. I will also give this a content warning because the end had some triggering themes, and is possibly the bleakest in film history, up there with Pans Laberinth.
Parents Need to Know
There's intense suspense that could make younger kids very anxious, as well as several suicides -- and the final scene is especially upsetting. One scene shows cigarette smoking, and a few characters get visibly drunk.
Which is better Canada or US side of Niagara Falls? ›
Which side of Niagara Falls is better? The Canadian Side: There is no doubt that the view is better on the Canadian side. This is where you can get the iconic view of the Horseshoe Falls, as well as the best view of the American Falls from across the river.
What time do lights come on at Niagara Falls? ›Niagara Falls Illumination
Hundreds of LED lights are housed in three locations across the Niagara Gorge in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Together, these lights work to create a breathtaking view not to be missed, and are illuminated every night of the year beginning at dusk.
A ship's captain generally does NOT have the legal right to officiate a wedding at sea. In order for a Captain of a ship to perform a marriage at sea, he must also be a judge, a justice of the peace, a minister, or an officially recognized officiant such as a Notary Public.
How much does it cost to get married at Niagara Falls? ›To schedule a ceremony please call (716) 286-4392 or 286-4393. You and your prospective spouse must arrive together with the same proper identification you brought when you obtained your Marriage License. The fee to perform a Marriage Ceremony is $150.00. Payment can be made by cash or Credit card.
Why did they change the name of the Maid of the Mist? ›The Maid of the Mist first carried passengers across the river in 1846! In 1848, when the bridge across the river opened, demand for the Maid of the Mist fell. They rebranded the Maid of the Mist as a tourist boat and it has been taking passengers ever since.
How wet do you get on Niagara Falls tour? ›You will not get wet while viewing the spectacular waterfall from Niagara Parkway or Niagara Falls State Park. The misty spray from the Falls may get you slightly wet when you stand at the crest line of the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side.
Will my shoes get wet at Niagara Falls? ›A common question is about what shoes to wear at Niagara Falls. It's important to note that if you go on the boat ride, your shoes will probably get wet. For this reason, the best option is to wear lightweight water shoes with no socks, so your feet dry quickly afterwards and you won't ruin your favourite shoes.
How do you stay dry at Niagara Falls? ›An umbrella or hooded jacket will keep you dry
As I mentioned above, the area close to Niagara Falls is very misty. It won't take longer than 30 seconds for your hair to get damp. Give it another minute or so and you'll start to look like you just got out of the shower!
Be prepared to get wet during this part of the attraction, even though yes, you will be provided with the iconic yellow rain poncho. But that is a given, when there's literally nothing separating you and the over 300,000 gallons of water flowing down every second.
How can I see Niagara Falls without getting wet? ›Skylon Tower
You can see right down into Horseshoe Falls itself and it is a great place to get a good view without getting wet. Even if the weather takes a turn for the worse, there is an inside observation deck and even a revolving restaurant if you fancy a bite to eat.
Can you wear Crocs to Niagara Falls? ›
☀️Check the current weather forecast.
Most guests dress in layers or bring a change of clothes to stay comfortable. Bring mittens on colder days. 👟Wear proper-fitting, closed-toe shoes which are secured to the foot (no flip-flops, crocs or slides/flats!)
The "blue raincoats" are from the "Maid of the Mist," and the red raincoats are worn by Hornblower Cruises. So appropriate. Regardless what side you go on, the trip under the falls is a life-time experience.
Can I wear flip flops to Niagara Falls? ›We recommend wearing shoes that dry quickly, or even flip flops if you have them.
What kind of clothes to wear to Niagara Falls? ›Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for staying cool during the day, while a light sweater or jacket may be necessary for evenings. Pack a waterproof jacket or poncho to protect yourself from rain and the mist from the falls.
Do they slow down Niagara Falls at night? ›Under an international treaty, the flow of water over Niagara Falls is reduced during the night to allow more of the water to flow into intakes used for power generation. This plan ensures that the Falls' natural beauty remains unaffected during prime viewing hours.
How much are ponchos at Niagara Falls? ›They do not charge for the ponchos, it's included in the charge for the boat ride. Parking is not free, there is a parking area down by the falls, the rates vary throughout the year but normally $15 to $18, which I think is terrible.
What is the secret tunnel behind Niagara Falls? ›Journey consists of an observation platform and series of tunnels near the bottom of the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian shore of the Niagara River. The tunnels and platform can be reached by elevators from the street level entrance. The tour is unguided.
What is the point of no return Niagara Falls? ›The three talked and drifted for about an hour, and eventually floated under the North Grand Island Bridge, the marker that serves the locals who frequently boat above the falls as the unofficial point of no return.
Do you need a passport for Journey Behind the Falls? ›Yes. If you're an international tourist [not from the European Union, Canada or USA], you'd be needing a passport with a valid visa to enter Niagara Falls on either side of the border. If you're a US citizen, you still need a passport to be shown as you re-enter the US after your Niagara Falls, Canada trip.