Cave of the Winds Tours

Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.

























Seasonal update

Maid of the Mist is now open for the season. You can choose tours that include the cruise to get right up close to Niagara Falls.

Visitors in raincoats on red walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Visitors in yellow ponchos on wooden walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Person in yellow poncho on Cave of the Winds walkway with waterfall spray.
Visitors in raincoats on wooden walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Visitors in raincoats on red walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Visitors in yellow ponchos on wooden walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Person in yellow poncho on Cave of the Winds walkway with waterfall spray.
Visitors in raincoats on wooden walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Visitors in raincoats on red walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Visitors in yellow ponchos on wooden walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Person in yellow poncho on Cave of the Winds walkway with waterfall spray.
Visitors in raincoats on wooden walkways at Cave of the Winds, Niagara Falls.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Guided Tours

Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Cave of the Winds

from
$47.50
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 - 2 hr
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 Changed Here Pavilion

2. World Changed 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

Trace how this waterfall reshaped lives through a history-rich experience at the edge of Niagara Falls.

  • Everything you get: Entry to Cave of the Winds takes you into the Niagara Gorge, where walkways and viewing platforms bring you close to the rushing water. Feel the spray, hear the roar, and experience the power of Niagara Falls from a unique perspective near the base of the falls.
  • Why choose this: Choose this experience if you want more than scenic views, with insights into how Niagara Falls has influenced history, industry, and the people who have lived and worked around it.
  • Options: Choose a guided tour that includes the Hurricane Deck experience, access to the World Changed Here Pavilion, and a poncho, or opt for a premium small-group walking tour with skip-the-line entry and views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Trace how this waterfall reshaped lives through a history-rich experience at the edge of Niagara Falls.

  • Everything you get: Entry to Cave of the Winds takes you into the Niagara Gorge, where walkways and viewing platforms bring you close to the rushing water. Feel the spray, hear the roar, and experience the power of Niagara Falls from a unique perspective near the base of the falls.
  • Why choose this: Choose this experience if you want more than scenic views, with insights into how Niagara Falls has influenced history, industry, and the people who have lived and worked around it.
  • Options: Choose a guided tour that includes the Hurricane Deck experience, access to the World Changed Here Pavilion, and a poncho, or opt for a premium small-group walking tour with skip-the-line entry and views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Inclusions

  • Entry to Cave of the Winds
  • Hurricane Deck experience (as per option selected)
  • Access to the World Changed Here Pavilion (as per option selected)
  • Skip-the-line entry (as per option selected)
  • Views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls (as per option selected)
  • Guided historical tour (as per option selected)
  • Premium small-group guided walking tour (as per option selected)
  • Niagara Falls State Park walk (as per option selected)
  • Poncho (as per option selected)

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair access: This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
  • Strollers: This experience is pram and stroller accessible.
  • Service animals: Service animals are welcome at the venue.

Additional information

  • Age restriction: Children ages 5 years and younger are not allowed to participate in this experience.
  • Water exposure: You may get very wet during Cave of the Winds, so wear clothing and shoes suitable for splashing water.
  • Tour location: The guided tour takes place entirely on the US side and does not include crossing the bridge into Canada.
  • Walking level: The tour is fully walking based and is not recommended for guests with significant mobility limitations.
  • Meeting point: Some tours start at the Nikola Tesla Statue in Niagara Falls State Park, New York.
  • Transportation: This experience does not include any vehicle transportation, hotel pickup, or drop-off.
  • Boat rides: This experience does not include the Maid of the Mist boat ride.
  • Other attractions: This experience does not include Journey Behind the Falls.
  • Meals: This experience does not include meals or refreshments.
  • Weather: The tour operates in most weather conditions.
  • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this tour.
  • Duration: The small-group walking tour option lasts approximately 2 hours.
  • Group size: The small-group tour runs with about 10 to 12 guests for a more personalized experience.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Family on a boat tour at Niagara Falls, wearing blue ponchos, with mist and skyline in view.
Boat approaching Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls.
Visitors in blue ponchos walking on a wooden walkway near Niagara Falls.
Person viewing Niagara Falls through binoculars on Maid of the Mist tour.
Family learning about Niagara Falls at a park map with a guide.
Visitors in yellow ponchos on the Cave of the Winds tour near Niagara Falls.
Visitors in rain ponchos on Cave of the Winds tour platform, Niagara Falls, New York.
Boat near Niagara Falls with rainbow in the mist.
Observation deck overlooking Niagara Falls with mist and surrounding cliffs.
Group at Niagara Falls State Park entrance, New York, near Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds tours.
Family on a boat tour at Niagara Falls, wearing blue ponchos, with mist and skyline in view.
Boat approaching Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls.
Visitors in blue ponchos walking on a wooden walkway near Niagara Falls.
Person viewing Niagara Falls through binoculars on Maid of the Mist tour.
Family learning about Niagara Falls at a park map with a guide.
Visitors in yellow ponchos on the Cave of the Winds tour near Niagara Falls.
Visitors in rain ponchos on Cave of the Winds tour platform, Niagara Falls, New York.
Boat near Niagara Falls with rainbow in the mist.
Observation deck overlooking Niagara Falls with mist and surrounding cliffs.
Group at Niagara Falls State Park entrance, New York, near Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds tours.
Family on a boat tour at Niagara Falls, wearing blue ponchos, with mist and skyline in view.
Boat approaching Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls.
Visitors in blue ponchos walking on a wooden walkway near Niagara Falls.
Person viewing Niagara Falls through binoculars on Maid of the Mist tour.
Family learning about Niagara Falls at a park map with a guide.
Visitors in yellow ponchos on the Cave of the Winds tour near Niagara Falls.
Visitors in rain ponchos on Cave of the Winds tour platform, Niagara Falls, New York.
Boat near Niagara Falls with rainbow in the mist.
Observation deck overlooking Niagara Falls with mist and surrounding cliffs.
Group at Niagara Falls State Park entrance, New York, near Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds tours.
Guided Tours

Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds

from $107.95
$91.76

15% off

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

3 hr - 4 hr
Pickup available
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours 30 minutes
Timeline
Map
Hard Rock Café (333 Prospect St)
Start point

Hard Rock Café (333 Prospect St)

Get direction
Niagara Falls

1. Niagara Falls

Tickets included
Maid of the Mist

2. Maid of the Mist

Tickets included
Niagara Observation Tower

3. Niagara Observation Tower

Tickets included

4. Prospect Point

Free Admission

5. Goat Island

Free Admission

6. Terrapin Point

Free Admission

7. Luna Island

Free Admission
Cave of the Winds

8. Cave of the Winds

Tickets included
Hard Rock Café (333 Prospect St)
End point

Hard Rock Café (333 Prospect St)

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Experience boat, cave, and tower viewpoints in one route that keeps you near the action rather than waiting in multiple ticket lines.

  • Everything you get: Ride the Maid of the Mist, enjoy timed entry to Cave of the Winds, and visit the Niagara Observation Tower for panoramic views of the Falls. A complimentary poncho is included to help keep you comfortable around the mist and spray.
  • Why choose this: Combine Niagara Falls USA's three signature attractions in a single guided experience, with options ranging from standard tours to more personalized small-group experiences.
  • Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, enjoy a guided tour of Goat Island, round-trip transportation from downtown Niagara Falls, a premium small-group experience with a maximum of 10 guests, or a small-group tour with a maximum of 7 guests.

Experience boat, cave, and tower viewpoints in one route that keeps you near the action rather than waiting in multiple ticket lines.

  • Everything you get: Ride the Maid of the Mist, enjoy timed entry to Cave of the Winds, and visit the Niagara Observation Tower for panoramic views of the Falls. A complimentary poncho is included to help keep you comfortable around the mist and spray.
  • Why choose this: Combine Niagara Falls USA's three signature attractions in a single guided experience, with options ranging from standard tours to more personalized small-group experiences.
  • Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, enjoy a guided tour of Goat Island, round-trip transportation from downtown Niagara Falls, a premium small-group experience with a maximum of 10 guests, or a small-group tour with a maximum of 7 guests.

Inclusions

  • Maid of the Mist boat tour
  • Timed entry to Cave of the Winds
  • Entry to Niagara Observation Tower
  • English-speaking guide
  • Poncho
  • Guided tour of Goat Island (as per option selected)
  • Round-trip transfers from downtown Niagara Falls (as per option selected)
  • Premium small-group tour with a maximum 10 guests (as per option selected)
  • Small-group tour with a maximum 7 guests (as per option selected)

Exclusions

  • Food and drinks

Accessibility

  • Mobility access: This experience is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers due to frequent staircases, narrow paths, and uneven archaeological surfaces.

Additional information

  • Seasonal operations: The Maid of the Mist boat tour is not operational during winter months and will be replaced by an alternative experience.
  • Splash warning: Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist experiences take you close to the falls, so expect to get wet and wear suitable clothing.
  • Tour location: This tour operates only on the USA 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 in blue ponchos on a boat tour at Niagara Falls, USA.
Boat tour at Niagara Falls USA with passengers in blue raincoats.
Observation deck at Prospect Point overlooking Niagara Falls, USA with city skyline in the background.
Visitors exploring a viewing platform at Niagara Falls, USA.
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.
Tourists on Luna Island viewing Niagara Gorge through mist at Niagara Falls.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Boat approaching Niagara Falls with mist rising from the waterfall.
Visitors in blue ponchos on a boat tour at Niagara Falls, USA.
Boat tour at Niagara Falls USA with passengers in blue raincoats.
Observation deck at Prospect Point overlooking Niagara Falls, USA with city skyline in the background.
Visitors exploring a viewing platform at Niagara Falls, USA.
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.
Tourists on Luna Island viewing Niagara Gorge through mist at Niagara Falls.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Boat approaching Niagara Falls with mist rising from the waterfall.
Visitors in blue ponchos on a boat tour at Niagara Falls, USA.
Boat tour at Niagara Falls USA with passengers in blue raincoats.
Observation deck at Prospect Point overlooking Niagara Falls, USA with city skyline in the background.
Visitors exploring a viewing platform at Niagara Falls, USA.
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.
Tourists on Luna Island viewing Niagara Gorge through mist at Niagara Falls.
Visitors on wooden walkways at Niagara Cave of the Winds near waterfalls.
Guided Tours

Niagara Falls USA: Small-Group Tour with Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds & Transportation

from
$137
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 available
Pickup available
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERWalk
Timeline
Map
Maid of the Mist

1. Maid of the Mist

Tickets included

2. Crow's Nest Walkway

Free Admission
Prospect Point Observation Tower

3. Prospect Point Observation Tower

Tickets included
Whirlpool State Park

4. Whirlpool State Park

Tickets included

5. Niagara Gorge origin viewpoint/Power Vista area

Free Admission
Goat Island

6. Goat Island

Tickets included

7. Luna Island

Free Admission
Cave of the Winds

8. Cave of the Winds

Tickets included

9. Three Sisters Island

Free Admission
Downtown Niagara Falls
End point

Downtown Niagara Falls

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

See Niagara Falls USA's top attractions with hotel transfers and a small-group experience limited to just seven guests.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy round-trip hotel transportation from Niagara Falls, USA, and visit three of the area's signature attractions: Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and Prospect Point Observation Tower. Explore the Falls from the water, from the gorge, and from an elevated viewing platform.
  • Why choose this: Experience Niagara Falls USA's most popular attractions in one convenient outing, with transportation and admission included.
  • Options: Depending on the option selected, enjoy the Niagara Virtual Experience in winter or visit Niagara Power Vista or Legends for additional insight into the Falls and its history.

See Niagara Falls USA's top attractions with hotel transfers and a small-group experience limited to just seven guests.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy round-trip hotel transportation from Niagara Falls, USA, and visit three of the area's signature attractions: Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and Prospect Point Observation Tower. Explore the Falls from the water, from the gorge, and from an elevated viewing platform.
  • Why choose this: Experience Niagara Falls USA's most popular attractions in one convenient outing, with transportation and admission included.
  • Options: Depending on the option selected, enjoy the Niagara Virtual Experience in winter or visit Niagara Power Vista or Legends for additional insight into the Falls and its history.

Inclusions

  • Entry to Maid of the Mist
  • Entry to Cave of the Winds
  • Entry to Prospect Point Observation Tower
  • Round-trip hotel transportation from Niagara Falls, USA
  • Small-group tour (maximum 7 guests)
  • Niagara Virtual Experience in winter (as per option selected)
  • Niagara Power Vista or Legends experience (as per option selected)

What to bring

  • Clothing: Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes and waterproof shoes.
  • Water: Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.

Additional information

  • Seasonal operations: The Maid of the Mist boat tour does not operate in winter months from December to April.
  • Winter alternatives: When Maid of the Mist is closed, your experience will feature the Niagara Virtual Experience, Niagara Power Vista, or Niagara Legends of Adventure as per your selected option.
  • Tour duration: Tour lengths can vary slightly depending on traffic and the time of year.
  • Off-peak timing: During quieter seasons, the tour may end a bit earlier because there are fewer crowds.
  • Physical activity: Moderate walking is required during this guided tour.
  • Weather: The experience operates in all weather conditions, so please dress accordingly.
  • Food and drinks: Meals, snacks, and refreshments are not included in this tour.
  • Gratuities: Tips for your guide and driver are not included in the tour price.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Maid of the Mist boat with passengers in pink ponchos near Niagara Falls.
Boat approaching Horseshoe Falls at Niagara River.
Bridal Veil Falls at Table Rock with tour boat on Niagara River.
Bridal Veil Falls cascading into the Niagara River surrounded by lush greenery.
Aerial view of Horseshoe Falls at Niagara with tour boats and observation deck.
Aerial view of Maid of the Mist cruise boat with passengers in blue ponchos.
Maid of the Mist boat with passengers in pink ponchos near Niagara Falls.
Boat approaching Horseshoe Falls at Niagara River.
Bridal Veil Falls at Table Rock with tour boat on Niagara River.
Bridal Veil Falls cascading into the Niagara River surrounded by lush greenery.
Aerial view of Horseshoe Falls at Niagara with tour boats and observation deck.
Aerial view of Maid of the Mist cruise boat with passengers in blue ponchos.
Maid of the Mist boat with passengers in pink ponchos near Niagara Falls.
Boat approaching Horseshoe Falls at Niagara River.
Bridal Veil Falls at Table Rock with tour boat on Niagara River.
Bridal Veil Falls cascading into the Niagara River surrounded by lush greenery.
Aerial view of Horseshoe Falls at Niagara with tour boats and observation deck.
Aerial view of Maid of the Mist cruise boat with passengers in blue ponchos.
Guided Tours

Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride

from
$56.80
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

2 hr
Transfers available
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
Niagara Falls USA
Start point

Niagara Falls USA

Get direction
Maid of the Mist

1. Maid of the Mist

Tickets included
20 min
Guided tour of Niagara Falls State Park

2. Guided tour of Niagara Falls State Park

Tickets included
40 min
Niagara Falls USA
End point

Niagara Falls USA

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Combine a boat ride and time on foot as your guide shares stories and makes the gorge feel close.

  • Everything you get: Join an English-speaking guide and board the iconic Maid of the Mist boat cruise (seasonal, typically May–November). Sail toward the base of the American and Horseshoe Falls for close-up views of the cascading water, then continue exploring Niagara Falls with insights into the area's history, geology, and famous landmarks.
  • Why choose this: Enjoy the convenience of a guided experience that includes the iconic Maid of the Mist, making it easy to see Niagara Falls' most famous attraction without planning the details yourself.
  • Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, add admission to Cave of the Winds and the Niagara Observation Tower, a guided walking tour, a small-group experience with a maximum of seven guests, hotel transportation within Niagara Falls, shuttle transfers between attractions, and a complimentary rain poncho.

Combine a boat ride and time on foot as your guide shares stories and makes the gorge feel close.

  • Everything you get: Join an English-speaking guide and board the iconic Maid of the Mist boat cruise (seasonal, typically May–November). Sail toward the base of the American and Horseshoe Falls for close-up views of the cascading water, then continue exploring Niagara Falls with insights into the area's history, geology, and famous landmarks.
  • Why choose this: Enjoy the convenience of a guided experience that includes the iconic Maid of the Mist, making it easy to see Niagara Falls' most famous attraction without planning the details yourself.
  • Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, add admission to Cave of the Winds and the Niagara Observation Tower, a guided walking tour, a small-group experience with a maximum of seven guests, hotel transportation within Niagara Falls, shuttle transfers between attractions, and a complimentary rain poncho.

Inclusions

  • Admission to the Maid of the Mist boat tour (seasonal; typically operates May–November)
  • English-speaking guide
  • Admission to the Niagara Observation Tower (as per option selected)
  • Entry to Cave of the Winds (as per option selected)
  • Walking tour of Niagara Falls (as per option selected)
  • Small-group Niagara Falls tour (as per option selected)
  • Shuttle to Cave of the Winds (as per option selected)
  • Hotel transportation in Niagara Falls (as per option selected)
  • Rain poncho (as per option selected)
  • Group size: maximum seven guests (as per option selected)

What to bring

  • Extra layers: Both attractions provide a free plastic poncho, but you may want a jacket or change of clothes as it can be damp and cool.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair access: This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
  • Strollers: This experience is pram or stroller accessible, but you must leave strollers in the designated area before boarding the boat.
  • Guide dogs: Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.

Additional information

  • Seasonal operation: The Maid of the Mist boat ride is not operational during winter months.
  • Winter replacement: When the boat is not operating, the experience is replaced by the Cave of the Winds.
  • Tour location: This tour takes place entirely on the US side and does not include crossing the bridge into Canada.
  • Maid of the Mist season: Maid of the Mist operates seasonally and is available from May for most variants.
  • Alternative experiences: On certain small-group tours, Maid of the Mist may be replaced by Niagara Power Vista or Niagara Legends of Adventure when not operating.
  • 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

fajeeda Ashik
AE

Fajeeda

United Arab Emirates
May, 2026
review-image
review-image
review-image

+ 6 more

It was a wonderful experience.The guide was very professional and friendly too. Maid of mist was out of the world feel.
Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride
Lori Gerler
US

Lori

United States
May, 2026
review-image
Our tour guide was great! We got to see and do everything we wanted! I would highly recommend this tour for first timers and even those return guests!
Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist Boat Ride
Donna Alford
US

Donna

United States
May, 2026
review-image
review-image
The Niagara Falls tour was absolutely amazing and worth every moment. The Hornblower Cruise was thrilling and brought us incredibly close to the falls, while Journey Behind the Falls gave a unique and powerful perspective from behind the cascading water. Note- It is a walking tour. You will walk but the walk is scenic! The entire experience was well organized, exciting, and unforgettable. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Canada’s Niagara Falls.”
Niagara Falls Canada: Guided Tour with Hornblower Cruise & Journey Behind the Falls
Kristyn Byrnes -Frankel
US

Kristyn

United States
May, 2026
review-image
The cruise was so easy to board and well organized. It was a cloudy and rainy day but we still had the best time! They included ponchos and we got to take some cool pictures before the cruise started. We got the most awesome up close view of the Horseshoe falls on the Canadian side. It was incredible to be there
Niagara Falls Canada: Guided Tour with Hornblower Cruise & Journey Behind the Falls
Sheila Clark
US

Sheila

United States
May, 2026
review-image
review-image
The tour was easy to book. Loved the meeting location. Close to parking and easy to find. We were greeted by the check in person and given instruction on where to meet our guide. Our guide was very knowledgeable. He took us to all the location gave instructions and answered all of our questions. Enjoyed the walking aspect of the tour. The boat ride was nice. If you get motion sick I would take something before the ride. It is a short ride. I didn't feel nauseous until the very end. The other three people with me didn't feel sick at all. Be aware on the cave of the wind you get very wet and it's windy. My husband enjoyed this the most. They have a trolly you can board for $5 each adult at the end to take you back near parking lot. We enjoyed the beautiful walk back.
Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds
Shashi Banavara Ramachandra
US

Shashi

United States
May, 2026
review-image
All these 3 were so good and left a great imprint on me, Well organised tour with explanation relevent to the places . Good job done by tour Guide Too.
Niagara Falls USA: Guided Tour with Maid of the Mist & Cave of the Winds
Cherie Persichetti
US

Cherie

United States
May, 2026
review-image
review-image
review-image

+ 1 more

We loved the zip line! It's a must if you are visiting Niagara Falls! Anyone age 6 and older can participate, great family activity!
Niagara Falls Canada Zipline Tickets
Broden shirtliff
CA

Broden

Canada
May, 2026
review-image
I recently went on a jet boat tour at Niagara Falls and it was one of the most exciting experiences I’ve ever had. The boat ride was fast, thrilling, and full of sharp turns that made the whole adventure unforgettable. As we got closer to the falls and rapids, the power of the water was incredible to see up close. The staff were friendly, funny, and made sure everyone felt safe before the tour started. Getting soaked by the waves was honestly one of the best parts because it added to the excitement and made the ride feel even more real. The scenery around the river was beautiful, and the entire atmosphere was energetic and fun. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Niagara Falls who wants a mix of sightseeing and adrenaline. It was absolutely worth it and something I would definitely do again.
Niagara Falls Canada: Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour on Niagara River