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Feel the adrenaline as you descend 175 feet in about 30 seconds in an elevator. Reach the Hurricane Deck by treading on wooden walkways and feel the force of the Bridal Veil Falls right above you.
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Cave of the Winds Tours
Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION90 minutes - 2 hours
START POINT
Niagara Falls USA
The first part of the tour will take you to Cave of the Winds. Make your way to the Power Portal Archway on Goat Island where your tour will begin.
1
Cave of the Winds
Tickets included
The Cave of the Winds portion of the tour lets you walk beneath the thundering Bridal Veil Falls, with a thrilling experience on the Hurricane Deck just 20 feet from the cascade. You'll also explore the Gorge Walk, where you'll get breathtaking views of all three Niagara Falls waterfalls, especially during the summer when you can feel the full force of the mist.
2
World Transformed Here Pavilion
Tickets included
Your Cave of the Wind admission ticket also includes access to the World Transformed Here Pavilion. Here, you get a fascinating look at the history of Niagara Falls and the creation of the first US State Park. Interactive displays and a compelling film showcase the region’s transformation, from its natural wonders to its industrial impact, providing deeper context to your visit.
3
Guided tour
An expert tour guide will walk you through the most popular spots of Niagara Falls, including the Tesla Statue, Power Arch, and Luna Island. The guide will share the rich history and fascinating stories behind these landmarks, giving you a deeper understanding of the Falls and the surrounding area.
4
END POINT
Niagara Falls USA
Get a personalized Cave of the Winds experience on this guided tour.
- Everything you get: The guided Cave of the Winds tour includes a full attraction access to the Hurricane Deck, Gorge Walk, & World Changed Here Pavilion. A bonus is the narrated walk to Niagara landmarks like the Tesla Statue and Terrapin Point that end with unforgettable views of all three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls.
- Why choose this: This expertly guided experience brings to life the history and culture of the Niagara Falls region with powerful stories, hidden viewpoints, and immersive moments you might miss on your own.
Get a personalized Cave of the Winds experience on this guided tour.
- Everything you get: The guided Cave of the Winds tour includes a full attraction access to the Hurricane Deck, Gorge Walk, & World Changed Here Pavilion. A bonus is the narrated walk to Niagara landmarks like the Tesla Statue and Terrapin Point that end with unforgettable views of all three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls.
- Why choose this: This expertly guided experience brings to life the history and culture of the Niagara Falls region with powerful stories, hidden viewpoints, and immersive moments you might miss on your own.
Inclusions
- Entry to Cave of the Winds
- Hurricane Deck experience
- Guided historical tour
- Access to The World Changed Here Pavilion
- Poncho
- Tip: Even with a poncho, the mist can be intense. Wear waterproof shoes, and shorts, and bring an extra change of clothes to stay comfortable and dry.
- Please note that guests can get very wet by the end of the Cave of the Winds experience, so be prepared to embrace the splash and wear suitable clothing!
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
- This experience is pram/stroller accessible.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
- The guided tour stays entirely on the US side of Niagara Falls and does not cross into Canada.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tours
4.6(294)
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Observation Tower Guided Tour
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
TimelineMap
START POINT
Hard Rock Café (333 Prospect St)
Meet your tour guide at the Hard Rock Café on 333 Prospect Street to begin your day of adventure at Niagara Falls USA. In case you've opted for the upgraded tour, you will be picked up directly from your downtown hotel.
1
Niagara Falls
Tickets included
Exploring Niagara Falls with a tour guide offers deeper insights, hidden viewpoints, and a seamless experience through the park’s top attractions. Please note that the sequence of attractions may vary based on the tour operator’s itinerary.
2
Maid of the Mist
Tickets included
Kick off the adventure with the Maid of the Mist boat and experience the breathtaking falls up close.
Walk
3
Cave of the Winds
Tickets included
Go on an unforgettable visit to the Cave of the Winds, where you'll descend to the Hurricane Deck and feel the power of the falls just feet away.
Walk
4
Niagara Observation Tower
Tickets included
The Niagara Observation Tower offers sweeping views of all three waterfalls, making it a perfect vantage point for photo ops and panoramic views.
5
END POINT
Hard Rock Café (333 Prospect St)
Niagara’s best hits in one guided experience—boat ride, cave walk & epic observation tower views.
- Everything you get: Go on a 4-hour tour of Niagara Falls USA led by a local English-speaking guide with access to the Maid of the Mist boat ride, admission to the Cave of the Wind, and entry to the Niagara Falls Observation Tower.
- Why choose this: With expert local guides and a meticulously planned itinerary, you'll enjoy a more personalized and immersive experience on this tour highlighting the best of Niagara Falls.
Niagara’s best hits in one guided experience—boat ride, cave walk & epic observation tower views.
- Everything you get: Go on a 4-hour tour of Niagara Falls USA led by a local English-speaking guide with access to the Maid of the Mist boat ride, admission to the Cave of the Wind, and entry to the Niagara Falls Observation Tower.
- Why choose this: With expert local guides and a meticulously planned itinerary, you'll enjoy a more personalized and immersive experience on this tour highlighting the best of Niagara Falls.
Inclusions
- Maid of the Mist boat tour
- Timed entry to Cave of the Winds
- Entry to Niagara Observation Tower
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Poncho
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Food & drinks
- Tip: Protect your camera from the mist with a waterproof case or cover. This will help you capture those unforgettable moments without worries!
- The Maid of the Mist boat tour is not operational during winter months and will be replaced by other options.
- Please note that you can get very wet by the end of the Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist experiences, so be prepared to embrace the splash and wear suitable clothing!
- This experience is not wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- The experience is fully based on the American side of Niagara Falls, with no bridge crossing to Canada included.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tours
3.9(128)
Niagara Falls (USA) Small Group Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds with Transportation
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERWalk
TimelineMap
1
Prospect Point Observation Tower
Tickets included
Your first stop is the Prospect Point Observation Tower for clear views of all three Falls from a higher altitude.
Fun fact: This is the only place in Niagara Falls, NY where you can see the American Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Bridal Veil Falls simultaneously.
2
Maid of the Mist
Tickets included
Board the iconic boat and get up close to the powerful base of the Falls for an unforgettable, misty experience.
P.S.: Don't forget to wear the complimentary ponchos. This ride can get very wet!
Boat
3
Goat Island
Tickets included
On Goat Island, you’ll get stunning views of the American and Horseshoe Falls, plus access to the Bridal Veil Falls viewing area.
4
Cave of the Winds
Tickets included
Descend 175 ft into the Niagara Gorge and experience the Hurricane Deck near Bridal Veil Falls, where you’ll feel the rushing power of the water.
5
Whirlpool State Park
Tickets included
The last stop is the Whirlpool State Park where you can marvel at the powerful swirling waters of the Niagara Whirlpool from scenic overlooks along the gorge rim. For a closer look, take the stairs down to the river level and hike the Whirlpool Rapids Trail, where you'll experience the force of the Class 6 rapids up close .
6
END POINT
Downtown Niagara Falls
A small-group tour to enjoy an intimate Niagara Falls adventure.
- Everything you get: This small-group Niagara Falls USA tour is led by an expert local guide. Visit Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls State Park, Goat Island, and Whirlpool State Park for a hassle-free, fun day. It also includes hotel transportation from the Niagara Falls, USA.
- Why choose this: Take this tour for an intimate small-group experience where you can enjoy personal attention, no crowded buses, and a relaxed pace as you explore Niagara Falls USA. It’s the perfect way to see the top sights without the stress of large tour groups.
A small-group tour to enjoy an intimate Niagara Falls adventure.
- Everything you get: This small-group Niagara Falls USA tour is led by an expert local guide. Visit Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls State Park, Goat Island, and Whirlpool State Park for a hassle-free, fun day. It also includes hotel transportation from the Niagara Falls, USA.
- Why choose this: Take this tour for an intimate small-group experience where you can enjoy personal attention, no crowded buses, and a relaxed pace as you explore Niagara Falls USA. It’s the perfect way to see the top sights without the stress of large tour groups.
Inclusions
- Intimate small group tour (14 participants for the walking tour, 7 participants for the boat tour)
- Experienced local tour guide
- Hotel transportation from Niagara Falls, USA
- Maid of the Mist boat tour
- Admission to Prospect Point Observation Tower
- Admission to Cave of the Winds
- Guided tour of Goat Island, Terrapin Point, and Luna Island
- Guided visit to Whirlpool State Park to see the Niagara Whirlpool Rapids
- Tip: You'll be walking and standing for a good part of the tour and often in wet places, so comfortable, waterproof shoes are a must!
- The Maid of the Mist boat tour is not operational during winter months and will be replaced by admission to the Aquarium of Niagara instead.
- The tour usually lasts around 6 hours, but timing can vary a bit depending on the season and traffic. During quieter times, it may wrap up a little sooner thanks to fewer crowds.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
START POINT
Niagara Falls USA
The first half of the tour will take place at Maid of the Mist. Board this popular boat ride and start your Niagara USA experience with an up-close visit to the Falls.
1
Maid of the Mist
20 minutes
Tickets included
Your tour starts with the Maid of the Mist boat ride. This is a legendary way to witness the power of Niagara Falls up close. The journey takes you into the swirling mist beneath Horseshoe Falls, where the roar and spray of the Falls surround you.
P.S.: Don't underestimate the power of the walls. Make sure to wear the rain ponchos provided.
Boat
2
Guided tour of Niagara Falls State Park
40 minutes
Tickets included
The legends and thrilling history of Niagara Falls come to life through stories of explorers and daredevils told to you by an expert guide. The 40-min walk will take you from Hennepin Rock to the Trolley Loop around Prospect Point.
Walk
3
END POINT
Niagara Falls USA
Expert-guided Maid of the Mist tour that takes you right up to Niagara Falls.
- Everything you get: This guided tour of Niagara Falls comes with access to the Maid of the Mist boat ride. Your expert guide will lead you on a 40-min walk and share epic stories of daredevils and discovery while you make your way from Hennepin Rock to the Trolley Loop.
- Why choose this: Enjoy a story-rich experience led by an expert guide who brings the tales of Niagara Falls to life. With a fun, immersive atmosphere, it's the perfect way to explore the best parts of Niagara USA without the hassle of planning out the route yourself.
Expert-guided Maid of the Mist tour that takes you right up to Niagara Falls.
- Everything you get: This guided tour of Niagara Falls comes with access to the Maid of the Mist boat ride. Your expert guide will lead you on a 40-min walk and share epic stories of daredevils and discovery while you make your way from Hennepin Rock to the Trolley Loop.
- Why choose this: Enjoy a story-rich experience led by an expert guide who brings the tales of Niagara Falls to life. With a fun, immersive atmosphere, it's the perfect way to explore the best parts of Niagara USA without the hassle of planning out the route yourself.
Inclusions
- Admission to the Maid of the Mist boat cruise
- English-speaking guide
- 40-min walking tour of Niagara Falls
- Rain poncho
What to bring
- Admission includes a complimentary plastic poncho at both sites, but since the mist and weather can leave you damp and chilly, it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or an extra set of clothes for comfort.
Accessibility
- This activity is not wheelchair-friendly.
- Strollers are permitted but must be parked in the designated area before getting on the boat.
- Service animals, such as guide dogs, are allowed.
Additional information
- The Maid of the Mist boats do not operate in winter and will be substituted with the Cave of the Winds experience during that period.
- Please note that this tour is conducted exclusively on the U.S. side and does not cross into Canada.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tours
4(96)
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Helicopter Tour
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION5 hours
TimelineMap
START POINT
Downtown Niagara Falls, USA
Enjoy a pick-up from your hotel in Downtown Niagara Falls, USA.
1
Prospect Point Observation Tower
Tickets included
Before boarding the boat, enjoy stunning views from the Prospect Point Observation Tower above the dock. Marvel at the view from the only place on the US side where you can see all three falls—American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.
2
Maid of the Mist
Tickets included
Your next stop will be a boat ride on the iconic Maid of the Mist. On the ride, experience the thunder of the falls up close—you might get a little wet, but a rain poncho is provided.
3
Goat Island
1 attractions
Next, you'll visit Goat Island, which also connects to Terrapin Point and Luna Island. Here, you'll explore the history of the Falls, see the Nikola Tesla monument, and get up close to Bridal Veil Falls, nestled between Goat and Luna Islands.
Nearby things to do
Nikola Tesla Monument
1 minute walk
4
Cave of the Winds
Tickets included
After Goat Island, your guide will bring you to Cave of the Winds, where you'll descend 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge. From there, you'll walk a series of platforms leading to the "hurricane deck," just feet from Bridal Veil Falls—so close, it feels like standing in a tropical storm.
5
Helicopter Ride Over the Falls
Tickets included
After Cave of the Winds, it's time for the highlight of your day—a thrilling Rainbow Air helicopter ride over Niagara Falls, the gorge, and the surrounding landscape.
6
END POINT
Downtown Niagara Falls, USA
Fly above Niagara, cruise the Mist & feel the Falls at Cave of the Wind on this guided tour.
- Everything you get: See Niagara Falls like never before as you soar above the Falls on a thrilling helicopter ride. Your small group guided tour also includes a ride aboard the Maid of the Mist & the chance to get up close to Bridal Veil Falls at Cave of the Winds. With expert guides & round-trip transportation, this is the ultimate Niagara experience.
- Why choose this: Get a once-in-a-lifetime view of Niagara Falls from the sky with a thrilling helicopter ride. This small-group tour offers a more personal experience and combines top-rated attractions for a unique, all-angle perspective of the Falls.
Fly above Niagara, cruise the Mist & feel the Falls at Cave of the Wind on this guided tour.
- Everything you get: See Niagara Falls like never before as you soar above the Falls on a thrilling helicopter ride. Your small group guided tour also includes a ride aboard the Maid of the Mist & the chance to get up close to Bridal Veil Falls at Cave of the Winds. With expert guides & round-trip transportation, this is the ultimate Niagara experience.
- Why choose this: Get a once-in-a-lifetime view of Niagara Falls from the sky with a thrilling helicopter ride. This small-group tour offers a more personal experience and combines top-rated attractions for a unique, all-angle perspective of the Falls.
Inclusions
- 8-min helicopter ride over Niagara Falls USA
- Maid of the Mist boat ride with poncho
- Admission to Cave of the Winds
- Guided tour of Goat Island, Terrapin Point and Luna Island
- English-speaking guide
- Small group of up to 7 people
- Round-trip transportation from downtown Niagara Falls (USA)
Exclusions
- Gratuity
- Food & drinks
- Tip: If you pack a pair of binoculars, you might spot birds soaring over the falls or kayakers braving the rapids below.
- Safety is a priority so the helicopter ride is restricted for infants and guests under the height of 1.02m (3.3ft).
- The Maid of the Mist boat cruise is only operational from May to October. When it is not operational, it will be replaced with a visit to the Aquarium of Niagara.
- You’ll receive your exact pick-up time via email or phone 1–3 days before your tour. If you don’t have access to either, please be ready in your hotel lobby at least 30 mins before the tour’s scheduled start time.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Why go on a Cave of the Winds tour
Thrilling experience
Niagara Falls Cave of the Winds highlights
Descend into the Gorge
The adventure of Niagara Falls Cave of the Winds begins with a scenic elevator ride that takes you 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge. Feel the rush as you get down and witness the Falls towering above, with the powerful water gushing down towards you in full force.
Hurricane Deck & Bridal Veil Falls
As you emerge from the elevator, prepare to be awestruck by Bridal Veil Falls as mist sprays your face. The Hurricane Deck's wooden walkways bring you 20 feet from the 181-foot waterfall, allowing you to fully immerse in the thundering roar.
Cave exploration
Walk through the cave as its cavernous walls and ceilings amplify the thundering roar of the Falls, creating an immersive experience like no other.
Wildlife Encounters
Admire Niagara’s flora and fauna. Spot the birds and small mammals that inhabit the area and look for beautiful rainbows.
Plan your visit
Where is Cave of the Winds?
The Cave of the Winds attraction is set up on Goat Island.
Location: 10 Goat Island Loop Road, Niagara Falls, NY | Find on Maps
Parking: Niagara Falls State Park provides ample parking with four designated lots. Nearby city parking lots are also conveniently located within walking distance, offering easy access to the Falls and surrounding attractions.
Getting to Niagara FallsCave of the Winds timings throughout the year
The Cave of the Winds at Niagara Falls opens every day but remains closed on December 25 (Christmas Day), November 28 (Thanksgiving Day), and January 1 (New Year's Day).
May 16 - May 23
9am to 6:15pm (Sun-Fri)
9am to 8:15pm (Sat)
May 24 - May 27
(Memorial Day Weekend)
9am to 9:15pm (Fri-Sun)
9am to 6:15pm (Mon)
May 28 - June 12
9am to 6:15pm (Sun-Fri)
9am to 8:15pm (Sat)
June 13 - July 3
9am to 8:15pm (Sun-Thur)
9am to 6:15pm (Fri-Sat)
July 4 - July 7
(Independence Day Weekend)
9am to 8:15pm (Thurs-Sat)
9am to 8:15pm (Sun)
August 30 - September 2
(Labor Day Weekend)
9am to 9:15pm (Fri-Sun)
9am to 6:15pm (Mon)
September 3 - October 11
9am to 6:15pm (Sun-Fri)
9am to 8:15pm (Sat)
October 12 - October 14
(Indigenous Day Weekend)
9am to 6:15pm (Sat-Sun)
9am to 4:15pm (Mon)
October 15 - October 20
9am to 4:15pm
October 21 - December 31
9am to 4pm
December 25 (Christmas Day)
November 28 (Thanksgiving Day)
January 1 (New Years Day)
Closed
Visitor tips
- The Cave of the Winds is accessible by wheelchair.
- Niagara Falls State Park offers plenty of restaurants to grab a bite.
- The Park has four gift shops to buy souvenirs such as apparel, glassware, gifts, and books for friends and family.
- Feel free to use the complimentary poncho and footwear for safety, but since you'll definitely get drenched, it's wise to bring an extra raincoat and change of clothes.
- Arrive when the Park opens to avoid waiting in line for a ticket.
Frequently asked questions about Niagara Falls Cave of the Winds
Are wheelchairs and strollers available for rent at Niagara Falls Cave of the Winds?
No. Wheelchairs and strollers are not available for rent at Niagara Falls Cave of the Winds.
Is Cave of the Winds worth it?
Yes. The Cave of the Winds offers an unforgettable, up-close experience with Niagara Falls and standing near the thundering water. It also offers a chance to explore the cave and learn its history.
Is the Cave of the Winds tour accessible from the Canadian side too?
The Cave of the Winds tour is conducted on the US side of Niagara Falls. But you can cross over from the Canadian side via Rainbow Bridge to access the tour.
What is the best time to visit the Cave of the Winds?
May to October is the best time to visit Cave of the Winds when the tour is fully operational, and the weather is pleasant.
Are there any things to keep in mind if I'm traveling with my kids?
Make sure your kids are supervised. Cave of the Winds is a popular attraction that can get extremely crowded during peak season. Also, follow all the safety instructions, including not leaning on the railings.
How long is the Cave of the Winds tour?
Plan for at least 2-4 hours to enjoy most of the tour including elevator ride, walkways, and waterfall view.
From happy customers
Darren
United KingdomAug, 2025
The guy that collected us was amazing, his knowledge and also friendly, helpful and it was a great afternoon really enjoyed it.
Niagara Falls (Canada) All-Inclusive Tour with Hornblower Cruise, Journey Behind the Falls & Skylon Tower
Noorani
United StatesAug, 2025
Bernie was the highlight of the tour funny enough. He called a squirrel to come like a Disney prince! His passion for educating us while on the tour, giving us tje history behind every rock, wave and waterfall truly captured the experience well. Thank you Bernie for making my engagement trip with my fiancée all the better!
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Observation Tower Guided Tour
Madonna
United StatesAug, 2025
Out tour guide was awesome! Jacob was so informative & funnt! He made listening easy.
Boat ride was great but our favorite was cave in winds. Recommend this tour to everyone. It also gave to accessibility for trolley service which we used even after the scheduled tour yo visit other parts of the Niagara Falls park.
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Observation Tower Guided Tour
Carly
United StatesAug, 2025
Our family enjoyed this walking tour. Our guide was knowledgeable on Niagara history. The tour involved quite a bit of walking.
Niagara Falls (Canada) Hornblower Cruise, Journey Behind the Falls with Guided Tour
Emilie
CanadaAug, 2025
Our guide was very nice and interesting. I liked all the tips and suggestions of what to do. It was nice not to have to wait and skip the line at every attraction. I recommend!!!
Niagara Falls (Canada) Hornblower Cruise, Journey Behind the Falls with Guided Tour
Michael
GermanyAug, 2025
We very much liked the boat ride to the falls. It was an incredible experience with the water in the air and the turbulences of the falling water. The raincoat provided is a good protection against the water. Of course, the shoes get wet which can be accepted.
However, the guided tour before was not so well organized. Because of the background noise of the falls the guy was difficult to understand and because of the large group he could not get through to everyone. For such problems one can imagine better solutions.
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride with Guided Tour
Sylvie
United StatesAug, 2025
We had the ultimate Niagara Park tour guide — knowledgeable enough to teach a masterclass, kind enough to lend you an umbrella, and funny enough to make you forget you’re wearing a giant blue garbage bag (a.k.a. the Maid of the Mist poncho). He made the history exciting, the walk easy, and the boat ride unforgettable. 10/10 would get soaked again.
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride with Guided Tour
Jeff
CanadaAug, 2025
+ 2 more
Our tour guide was amazing. She was a very personable and kind.
In the beginning we had trouble finding the group. The initial email said we would be meeting outside of the Skylon Tower and our tour guide would be wearing a white shirt. After some stressful waiting out front, we learned that everyone was gathering inside and the tour guides were wearing black shirts. A simple update to their generic email would have solved this issue. There were other patrons waiting outside with us just as confused.
With that all said, it was a great experience and we would use this tour organization again if opportunity arises.
Niagara Falls Guided Walking Tour with Cruise