While we were vacationing in the Finger Lakes, we decided to take a spur-of-the-moment trip to Niagara Falls in New York. Here's a quick look at our day to maybe inspire you for a surprise road trip with your family!
Our first stop on our visit was the famous Maid of the Mist boat tours along the bottom of the falls on the American side. While you can purchase tickets online to avoid the lines that day, we bought them on the spot that day. After purchasing your tickets, you walk out toward a tower with a view of the falls that is one of many great photo opportunities. An elevator ride down takes you to the loading area where everyone is provided with a poncho (you will get wet on the boat!) before boarding.
The 20-minute ride goes by in a blink and is absolutely amazing to feel the power of the water as it thunders over the falls. If you want to take photos during the tour, you may want to plan ahead for a waterproof case or cover for your phone or camera. After the boat tour, you can climb a staircase along the edge of the falls for another photo-taking opportunity.
The second major attraction on the American side of Niagara Falls is the Cave of the Winds walking tour.
Along with another close encounter with the power of the falls, the Cave of the Winds includes a historical look at the history of the area with exhibits, photos, and a short video. Our whole family enjoyed the video that talked about efforts to harness the power of the falls and control the development of the area.
After the video, everyone received souvenir ponchos and sandals (you get wetter here than Maid of the Mist) to take the walking tour. This walking tour has deck platforms and steps that are wet, so anyone with trouble walking should use extra caution.
My family’s favorite part of the Cave of the Winds tour was the Hurricane Deck where it feels like you can almost reach out and touch Bridal Veil Falls. On this deck, you experience tropical storm conditions from the rain and wind and gain a new appreciation for the power of the falls.
A few items to note: This tour requires timed tickets that can only be purchased on site. The full Cave of the Winds experience is a seasonal offering in late spring through early fall. Abbreviated tour options are offered at other times of the year.
When we were ready for lunch, we stayed in Niagara Falls State Park and ate along Prospect Street, just a short walk from the tour attractions. Food trucks and other quick-service restaurants provided numerous options for kids and adults. This area also included a parking lot and a visitor information center. Find full details on the Niagara Falls State Park website.
