Cave of the Winds Tours

4.4(1,349)

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Visitors in raincoats on red walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Tourists in yellow ponchos at Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara Falls.
Tourists in blue ponchos on a Niagara Falls cruise boat approaching the waterfall.
Robert Moses Power Station with flowing river, surrounded by greenery, Canada.
Tour boat near Niagara Falls with passengers in blue ponchos, USA.
Visitors in raincoats on red walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Tourists in yellow ponchos at Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara Falls.
Tourists in blue ponchos on a Niagara Falls cruise boat approaching the waterfall.
Robert Moses Power Station with flowing river, surrounded by greenery, Canada.
Tour boat near Niagara Falls with passengers in blue ponchos, USA.
Visitors in raincoats on red walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Tourists in yellow ponchos at Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara Falls.
Tourists in blue ponchos on a Niagara Falls cruise boat approaching the waterfall.
Robert Moses Power Station with flowing river, surrounded by greenery, Canada.
Tour boat near Niagara Falls with passengers in blue ponchos, USA.
Guided Tours
4.4(51)

Niagara Falls (USA) and Cave of the Winds Guided Tour

from
$47.61
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

1 hr 30 min
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION90 minutes - 2 hours
Niagara Falls USA
Start point

Niagara Falls USA

Get direction
Cave of the Winds

1. Cave of the Winds

Tickets included
World Transformed Here Pavilion

2. World Transformed Here Pavilion

Tickets included
Guided tour

3. Guided tour

Niagara Falls USA
End point

Niagara Falls USA

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

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.
Boat approaching Niagara Falls with mist rising from the waterfall.
Visitors on Luna Island viewing Niagara Falls with Rainbow Bridge in the background.
Aerial view of Maid of the Mist cruise boat with passengers in blue ponchos.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Tourists on Luna Island viewing Niagara Gorge through mist at Niagara Falls.
Boat approaching Niagara Falls with mist rising from the waterfall.
Visitors on Luna Island viewing Niagara Falls with Rainbow Bridge in the background.
Aerial view of Maid of the Mist cruise boat with passengers in blue ponchos.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Tourists on Luna Island viewing Niagara Gorge through mist at Niagara Falls.
Boat approaching Niagara Falls with mist rising from the waterfall.
Visitors on Luna Island viewing Niagara Falls with Rainbow Bridge in the background.
Aerial view of Maid of the Mist cruise boat with passengers in blue ponchos.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Tourists on Luna Island viewing Niagara Gorge through mist at Niagara Falls.
Guided Tours
3.9(134)

Niagara Falls (USA) Small Group Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds with Transportation

from
$137.41
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

4 hr
Transfers included
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERWalk
Timeline
Map
Prospect Point Observation Tower

1. Prospect Point Observation Tower

Tickets included
Maid of the Mist

2. Maid of the Mist

Tickets included
Goat Island

3. Goat Island

Tickets included
Cave of the Winds

4. Cave of the Winds

Tickets included
Whirlpool State Park

5. Whirlpool State Park

Tickets included
Downtown Niagara Falls
End point

Downtown Niagara Falls

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

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.
Niagara Falls with tour boat in foreground, New York helicopter tour.
Maid of the Mist boat with passengers in blue ponchos navigating Niagara River.
Traveler enjoying music on a coach transfer journey.
Helicopter flying over Niagara Falls during Rainbow Air tour.
Niagara Falls view from Goat Island with rainbow and observation deck.
Tourists in blue ponchos on a Niagara Falls cruise boat approaching the waterfall.
Prospect Point Observation Tower overlooking Niagara Falls with visitors on the viewing deck.
Nikola Tesla Monument overlooking Niagara Falls with visitors nearby.
Visitors in raincoats on red walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls with tour boat in foreground, New York helicopter tour.
Maid of the Mist boat with passengers in blue ponchos navigating Niagara River.
Traveler enjoying music on a coach transfer journey.
Helicopter flying over Niagara Falls during Rainbow Air tour.
Niagara Falls view from Goat Island with rainbow and observation deck.
Tourists in blue ponchos on a Niagara Falls cruise boat approaching the waterfall.
Prospect Point Observation Tower overlooking Niagara Falls with visitors on the viewing deck.
Nikola Tesla Monument overlooking Niagara Falls with visitors nearby.
Visitors in raincoats on red walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls with tour boat in foreground, New York helicopter tour.
Maid of the Mist boat with passengers in blue ponchos navigating Niagara River.
Traveler enjoying music on a coach transfer journey.
Helicopter flying over Niagara Falls during Rainbow Air tour.
Niagara Falls view from Goat Island with rainbow and observation deck.
Tourists in blue ponchos on a Niagara Falls cruise boat approaching the waterfall.
Prospect Point Observation Tower overlooking Niagara Falls with visitors on the viewing deck.
Nikola Tesla Monument overlooking Niagara Falls with visitors nearby.
Visitors in raincoats on red walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Guided Tours
4.1(97)

Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Helicopter Tour

from
$319
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

5 hr
Transfers included
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION5 hours
Timeline
Map
Downtown Niagara Falls, USA
Start point

Downtown Niagara Falls, USA

Get direction
Prospect Point Observation Tower

1. Prospect Point Observation Tower

Tickets included
Maid of the Mist

2. Maid of the Mist

Tickets included
Goat Island

3. Goat Island

1 attraction

Things to do

Cave of the Winds

4. Cave of the Winds

Tickets included
Helicopter Ride Over the Falls

5. Helicopter Ride Over the Falls

Tickets included
Downtown Niagara Falls, USA
End point

Downtown Niagara Falls, USA

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

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.

Hidden behind the thundering Bridal Veil Falls on Goat Island, the Cave of the Winds is a natural wonder that remained undiscovered until 1834. Measuring 130 feet high and 100 feet wide, this cavernous space earned its name from the powerful gusts felt by early explorers Barry Hill White and George Sims, who named it "Aeolus' Cave" after the Greek god of the winds. Today, it’s possible to descend to the base of the Falls in an elevator and experience the full force of the cascading water up close. Here’s everything to know about this one-of-a-kind attraction, from what to expect to timings.

Find the best Cave of the Winds tour for you

Experience
Key inclusions
Duration
Round-trip transfers
Food & drinks
Best for
Book tickets
Niagara Falls (USA) and Cave of the Winds Guided Tour
Cave of the Winds, guided historical tour, The World Changed Here Pavilion
1.5hr
Not included
Not included
Those short on time who want a focused Cave of the Winds experience
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Observation Tower Guided Tour
Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist boat ride, Niagara Observation Tower, English-speaking guide
4hr
Not included
Not included
People who want both boat and walkway experiences
Niagara Falls (USA) Small Group Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds with Transportation
Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist boat ride, guided walking tour
4hr
Hotel transportation from Niagara Falls, USA
Not included
If you’re seeking a more personalized adventure in smaller groups 
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Helicopter Tour
8-min helicopter ride over Niagara Falls USA, Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist boat ride, guided walking tour
5hr
Round-trip transportation from downtown Niagara Falls, USA
Not included
Adventurers who want aerial views along with the classic Niagara attractions

What to expect on your tour of the Cave of the Winds

Start your Cave of the Winds adventure at Goat Island in Niagara Falls State Park. The tour begins with a brief exhibit about the history and highlights of the attraction. You’ll get free ponchos and special shoes to stay dry before heading down 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge. Follow the river to wooden walkways that lead to the Hurricane Deck, just 20 feet from the Bridal Veil Falls.

Along the way, enjoy the refreshing mist and the amazing view of the rushing water right beside you. At Bridal Veil Falls, you can stand under the falling water and feel its power up close. Leave the tour with wet clothes but fonder memories!

Cave 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

Where is Cave of the Winds?

Visitor tips

Wheelchair accessible route sign with arrow pointing right.

A brief history of the caves

1834: Originally an overhanging ledge over which the Bridal Veil Falls flowed, Cave of the Winds was discovered by Joseph W. Ingraham, who spotted the cave from above the Niagara Gorge.

1841: Visitors are officially offered guided tours to the cavern through Goat Island, which involves descending a staircase into the cave. 

1920: A rock fall within the Cave, the second of its kind over the years, temporarily closed the tour. 

1924: The guided tour officially reopened, and a series of wooden walkways were built in front of the Falls instead of behind them.

1954: Another major rock fall destroyed the cave, making it impossible to visit.

1955: The remainder of the cave was destroyed by a controlled dynamite blast after engineers determined that the entrance was too dangerous. 

Today: Cave of the Winds is a series of redwood decks and platforms removed every fall and re-installed in spring every year to avoid damage caused by ice buildup.

Read about Niagara Falls' history

Frequently asked questions about Niagara Falls Cave of the Winds tours

What is included in the Cave of the Winds tours?

Depending on the tour you choose, apart from access to Cave of the Winds, your inclusions can range from guided walking tours of the attraction to combo experiences inclusive of the Maid of the Mist boat ride, Niagara Observation Tower access, and even a helicopter ride

Is transportation included in any of the tours?

The Niagara Falls (USA) Small Group Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds and Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Helicopter Tour include round-trip transportation from select Niagara Falls USA hotels.

Can I combine Cave of the Winds with other Niagara experiences?

Absolutely. Combo tours pair Cave of the Winds with attractions like the Maid of the Mist, Niagara Observation Tower, or even a helicopter ride.

Is Cave of the Winds suitable for families with children?

Yes, Cave of the Winds is family-friendly with safe walkways and accessible pathways. Children should be accompanied by an adult on the Hurricane Deck, where the mist and wind are strongest.

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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

From happy customers

Domitille TRICOU

Domitille

Oct, 2025
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Everything was so well organised, even with the unexpected traffic jams and blocked streets on departure because of Toronto marathon. Ou guide was very good and kind. All steps were smoothly organised. It was a Lovely day and a great experience ! The Niagara Falls are a wonderful spot everybody should absolutely visit. I'm very happy quand I feel lucky to have chosen Headout for this excursion.
Niagara Falls (Canada) All-Inclusive Day Tour with Hornblower Cruise, Journey Behind the Falls & Skylon Tower
Baila cohn
US

Baila

United States
Oct, 2025
review-image
We had a lovely time, our baby and stroller were accommodated so nicely. Our guide MJ was very knowledgeable and friendly
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride with Guided Tour
Kathleen Flores

Kathleen

Oct, 2025
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+ 1 more

Our tour guide Greg was very knowledgeable and entertaining. Our tour was educational and also a lot of fun. We have great videos and photos from goat Island and while actually on the tour boat.
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride with Guided Tour
Jerri Cybyske
US

Jerri

United States
Oct, 2025
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Our tour guide Manish was very determined to ensure we enjoyed our tour and really knows everything about Niagara Falls ! He could answer every question and provided us with detailed facts and pictures about the history,flow, erosion, and all very interesting facts. His story telling kept us engaged and he made sure we got the full effect of each excursion! We did the Day and Night tour which included a very nice dinner and an awesome personal experience at the Ellumination Tower that you just can't get anywhere! This was the best tour experience ever and we highly recommend it!!!
Semi-Private Day & Night Sightseeing Tour of Niagara Falls (Canada) with Cruise & Dinner
Robert Ranney
US

Robert

United States
Oct, 2025
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The guide was very informative and helpful. The tour included several sites we hadn't seen yet and might have otherwise missed.
Niagara Falls Guided Walking Tour with Cruise
Kimberly Ann Siegel
US

Kimberly

United States
Oct, 2025
review-image
We loved Dan! He was so engaging! The tour was fun and incredible, and made even better by Dan's' stories. He is a great guy and we highly recommend this tour!
Niagara Falls (Canada) Hornblower Cruise, Journey Behind the Falls with Guided Tour
Kay Cashen Hungate

Kay

Oct, 2025
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+ 2 more

This was a great experience! Greg, our guide, was so knowledgeable and made the tour great! If you are not familiar with the area, this is the best way to see the Falls from many different angles. We loved Niagara Falls State Park. Just an amazing experience and Greg made it all worthwhile!
Niagara Falls (USA) Maid of the Mist Boat Ride, Cave of the Winds & Observation Tower Guided Tour
Michael Williams
US

Michael

United States
Oct, 2025
review-image
We learned so much about the falls, the area, and the beautiful scenery beyond the falls. Our guide was exceptional and made sure we felt an important part of her day!
Niagara Falls (Canada) Hornblower Cruise with Guided Tour