Niagara Falls Tunnel Tours

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Seasonal update

Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) is closed for the winter season and typically resumes operations between April and May. The cruise will be replaced by other experiences such as Niagara Takes Flight, Journey Behind the Falls, The Butterfly Conservatory, or The Niagara Parks Power Station, depending on the tour you choose.

Boat approaching Niagara Falls on the Voyage to the Falls tour, Canada.
Visitors in red ponchos on a boat near Niagara Falls, Canada.
Visitors enjoying the view of Niagara Falls from a lookout point in Canada.
Visitors at Niagara Falls viewpoint overlooking the waterfall and river.
Niagara Falls illuminated at dusk with city skyline in the background, Canada.
Floral Clock on Niagara Parkway near Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Niagara Falls.
Niagara SkyWheel and bowling pin sign at Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls.
Aerial view of Niagara Falls State Park with Ferris wheel and surrounding attractions.
Downtown Niagara Falls vibrant streets with illuminated attractions and buildings at night.
Niagara Falls illuminated in blue during night light show.
Boat approaching Niagara Falls on the Voyage to the Falls tour, Canada.
Visitors in red ponchos on a boat near Niagara Falls, Canada.
Visitors enjoying the view of Niagara Falls from a lookout point in Canada.
Visitors at Niagara Falls viewpoint overlooking the waterfall and river.
Niagara Falls illuminated at dusk with city skyline in the background, Canada.
Floral Clock on Niagara Parkway near Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Niagara Falls.
Niagara SkyWheel and bowling pin sign at Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls.
Aerial view of Niagara Falls State Park with Ferris wheel and surrounding attractions.
Downtown Niagara Falls vibrant streets with illuminated attractions and buildings at night.
Niagara Falls illuminated in blue during night light show.
Boat approaching Niagara Falls on the Voyage to the Falls tour, Canada.
Visitors in red ponchos on a boat near Niagara Falls, Canada.
Visitors enjoying the view of Niagara Falls from a lookout point in Canada.
Visitors at Niagara Falls viewpoint overlooking the waterfall and river.
Niagara Falls illuminated at dusk with city skyline in the background, Canada.
Floral Clock on Niagara Parkway near Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Niagara Falls.
Niagara SkyWheel and bowling pin sign at Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls.
Aerial view of Niagara Falls State Park with Ferris wheel and surrounding attractions.
Downtown Niagara Falls vibrant streets with illuminated attractions and buildings at night.
Niagara Falls illuminated in blue during night light show.
Day Trips

From Toronto: Niagara Falls Evening Sightseeing Tour with Round-Trip Transportation

from
CA$123.17
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

9 hr 30 min
Guided tour
Transfers available
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION9 hours 30 minutes - 10 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
Timeline
Map
Start point

3 starting points available

1 hr 40 min by a/c minivan
Floral Clock

1. Floral Clock

Niagara Whirlpool

2. Niagara Whirlpool

Hydroelectric Power Station

3. Hydroelectric Power Station

Maple & Chocolate Factory

4. Maple & Chocolate Factory

Niagara Falls

5. Niagara Falls

Clifton Hill

6. Clifton Hill

Hornblower Cruises

7. Hornblower Cruises

Tickets included (based on selection)
Journey Behind the Falls

8. Journey Behind the Falls

Tickets included (based on selection)
Dinner

9. Dinner

Tickets included (based on selection)
Illumination Tower

10. Illumination Tower

Tickets included (based on selection)
Niagara Falls Fireworks Show

11. Niagara Falls Fireworks Show

Winter Festival of Lights

12. Winter Festival of Lights

End point

3 ending points available

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Experience Canada's iconic waterfalls lit up at night on a relaxed, curated trip with city views.

  • Day out to: Travel from Toronto to Niagara Falls on an afternoon and evening tour with round-trip AC coach transportation and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • You'll get: An expert local guide accompanies you on your journey, while seasonal sightseeing stops and ample free time at Niagara Falls let you explore at your own pace without worrying about transport or planning.
  • Niagara Falls: Spend the evening discovering the falls area, taking in views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls as they light up after sunset. Wander the waterfront, browse Clifton Hill, enjoy dinner, or simply soak in the atmosphere from the best viewpoints.
  • Seasonal stops: Depending on the day and season, your itinerary may include stops at attractions such as the Niagara Whirlpool, hydroelectric power stations, or a maple syrup tasting experience, adding extra local flavour to your visit.
  • Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, enhance your experience with Hornblower Cruise tickets, Journey Behind the Falls admission, a Falls-view dinner, or a visit to the Illumination Tower.

Experience Canada's iconic waterfalls lit up at night on a relaxed, curated trip with city views.

  • Day out to: Travel from Toronto to Niagara Falls on an afternoon and evening tour with round-trip AC coach transportation and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • You'll get: An expert local guide accompanies you on your journey, while seasonal sightseeing stops and ample free time at Niagara Falls let you explore at your own pace without worrying about transport or planning.
  • Niagara Falls: Spend the evening discovering the falls area, taking in views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls as they light up after sunset. Wander the waterfront, browse Clifton Hill, enjoy dinner, or simply soak in the atmosphere from the best viewpoints.
  • Seasonal stops: Depending on the day and season, your itinerary may include stops at attractions such as the Niagara Whirlpool, hydroelectric power stations, or a maple syrup tasting experience, adding extra local flavour to your visit.
  • Upgrades: Depending on the option selected, enhance your experience with Hornblower Cruise tickets, Journey Behind the Falls admission, a Falls-view dinner, or a visit to the Illumination Tower.

Inclusions

  • Evening Niagara Falls tour from Toronto
  • Round-trip AC coach transportation
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Expert local English-speaking guide
  • Seasonal sightseeing stops
  • Free time at Niagara Falls
  • Hornblower Cruise tickets (as per option selected)
  • Journey Behind the Falls tickets (as per option selected)
  • Falls-view dinner (as per option selected)
  • Illumination Tower visit (as per option selected)

Exclusions

  • Tips/gratuity for your guide
  • Personal expenses such as shopping and additional activities

What to bring

  • Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and consider layers or rain gear depending on the season.
  • Photo ID: Carry a government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, for possible identity verification.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair access: The buses are not wheelchair accessible, but foldable wheelchairs that fit between seats are allowed onboard.
  • Boarding step: Boarding the bus requires a high step up and may be challenging for some guests.

What’s not allowed

  • Large luggage: Do not bring large bags, suitcases, or oversized luggage on the tour.
  • Pets: Do not bring pets with you on this tour.
  • Intoxication: Do not consume alcohol or drugs or join the tour while intoxicated.
  • Smoking: Do not smoke or vape on the minibus or during group activities.

Additional information

  • Border crossing: The tour stays on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls and does not cross Rainbow Bridge to the USA side.
  • Hornblower cruise: The Hornblower Boat Cruise operates seasonally, approximately from May to November, and may be replaced by the Skylon Tower when closed.
  • Infants: Inform the tour operator in advance if you are bringing a baby or toddler aged 2 years or under.
  • Itinerary: Itinerary and timings may vary based on season, starting point, and daily conditions.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tourists walking into the illuminated Tailrace Tunnel at Niagara Parks Power Station.
Guide explaining to tourists inside Niagara Power Station.
Niagara Power Station exterior with arched bridge over water.
Tourists walking out of the Tailrace Tunnel towards daylight.
Guide explaining information to tourists in the Tailrace Tunnel.
Guide welcoming tourists in front of Skylon Tower, Niagara Falls.
Tourists viewing Horseshoe Falls from Skylon Tower observation deck.
Tourists walking through a corridor towards Skylon Tower entrance.
Tourists gathered at Niagara Falls with a boat in the background.
Niagara Power Station interior with vintage machinery and large blue generators.
Tourists walking into the illuminated Tailrace Tunnel at Niagara Parks Power Station.
Guide explaining to tourists inside Niagara Power Station.
Niagara Power Station exterior with arched bridge over water.
Tourists walking out of the Tailrace Tunnel towards daylight.
Guide explaining information to tourists in the Tailrace Tunnel.
Guide welcoming tourists in front of Skylon Tower, Niagara Falls.
Tourists viewing Horseshoe Falls from Skylon Tower observation deck.
Tourists walking through a corridor towards Skylon Tower entrance.
Tourists gathered at Niagara Falls with a boat in the background.
Niagara Power Station interior with vintage machinery and large blue generators.
Tourists walking into the illuminated Tailrace Tunnel at Niagara Parks Power Station.
Guide explaining to tourists inside Niagara Power Station.
Niagara Power Station exterior with arched bridge over water.
Tourists walking out of the Tailrace Tunnel towards daylight.
Guide explaining information to tourists in the Tailrace Tunnel.
Guide welcoming tourists in front of Skylon Tower, Niagara Falls.
Tourists viewing Horseshoe Falls from Skylon Tower observation deck.
Tourists walking through a corridor towards Skylon Tower entrance.
Tourists gathered at Niagara Falls with a boat in the background.
Niagara Power Station interior with vintage machinery and large blue generators.
Guided Tours

Niagara Falls Canada: Underground Power Station, Tailrace Tunnel & Skylon Tower Guided Tour

from
CA$99
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
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
Skylon Tower
Start point

Skylon Tower

Get direction
Niagara Parks Power Station

1. Niagara Parks Power Station

Tickets included
Base of Niagara Falls

2. Base of Niagara Falls

Tickets included
Tailrace Tunnel

3. Tailrace Tunnel

Tickets included
Niagara River Parkway
End point

Niagara River Parkway

Get direction
  • Dive into Niagara Falls’ history with hydroelectricity, and watch the 115-year old revived power plant come to life with repurposed installations!
  • Take the glass elevator from the Skylon Tower to the Niagara Parks Power Station and marvel at the 100-year-old tunnel pathway excavation.
  • Test out original machinery for yourself at the first ever hydroelectric power plant at the Niagara Parks Power Station.
  • Learn the fascinating history of The Current Wars and Nikola Tesla’s role in hydroelectric power as you approach the Tesla statue.
  • Exit the Tailrace Tunnel to a breathtaking view of Horseshoe Falls with the water roaring and mist kissing your face. Unforgettable!
  • Dive into Niagara Falls’ history with hydroelectricity, and watch the 115-year old revived power plant come to life with repurposed installations!
  • Take the glass elevator from the Skylon Tower to the Niagara Parks Power Station and marvel at the 100-year-old tunnel pathway excavation.
  • Test out original machinery for yourself at the first ever hydroelectric power plant at the Niagara Parks Power Station.
  • Learn the fascinating history of The Current Wars and Nikola Tesla’s role in hydroelectric power as you approach the Tesla statue.
  • Exit the Tailrace Tunnel to a breathtaking view of Horseshoe Falls with the water roaring and mist kissing your face. Unforgettable!

Inclusions

  • Tailrace Tunnel experience - Niagara's newest attraction!
  • Pre-reserved Skylon Tower tickets
  • Pre-reserved Niagara Power Station tickets
  • Glass Elevator access at the Tailrace Tunnel
  • Glass Elevator access at the Skylon Tower
  • Local English-speaking guide
  • Expertly guided walking tour
  • Tip: Don’t miss the “Currents” immersive light and sound show at the Parks Power Station!
  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Beneath the thundering Falls: Exploring the Niagara's tailrace tunnel

For over a century, the thundering waters of Niagara Falls have concealed an incredible engineering marvel - the tailrace tunnel. Carved from solid rock, this colossal 2,200-foot passage played a vital role in harnessing the Falls' power to illuminate homes and industries. Now, you can descend almost 200 feet via a glass-enclosed elevator to explore this underground wonder. Follow a guided tour through the tunnel, culminating in a viewing platform that offers breathtaking vistas of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

So, here’s everything - from what to expect to tour details - so you don’t miss your chance to experience this captivating piece of Niagara’s history.

What to look forward to at the Tailrace Tunnel

Skylon Tower viewing area

The new viewing platform

Completed in 2022, this platform offers a breathtaking panoramic vista. Picture yourself standing at the very edge of the Niagara River, with the Horseshoe and American Falls cascading in all their glory directly in front of you. This unique viewpoint lets you truly grasp the immense scale and power of the Falls.

View iof the guide giving information to tourists inside Niagara Power Station

Interactive exhibits

Throughout the tour, you’ll find interactive exhibits that bring the history of the tunnel and the Niagara Parks Power Station to life. Learn about the innovative engineering behind harnessing the Falls' power, the challenges faced by construction workers, and the ongoing role of hydroelectric energy in the region.

Interior view of the Niagara Power Station

The glass elevator descent

The tour kicks off with a dramatic 180-foot descent down a glass elevator. You’ll then arrive at the original wheel pit, a massive chamber that once housed the enormous turbines used for generating electricity.This exhilarating start sets the stage for your exploration of the tunnel.

Niagara Falls Tunnel view with cascading water, related to Holiday's Special: Moulin Rouge Show + Dinner.

Illuminated walkway

Walking through the 2,200-foot tunnel is an immersive experience. Strategic lighting casts a magical glow on the rock walls, while informative plaques detail the construction process and the tunnel's role in generating electricity. Imagine stepping back in time, surrounded by the cool, damp air and the echoes of the past.

Visitors browsing through a well-stocked bookshop during a city tour

Gift shop with local specialties

Wrap up your visit with a stop at the on-site gift shop. Pick up unique souvenirs crafted by local artisans, like maple syrup from nearby groves or hand-blown glass pieces showcasing the Falls' beauty, along with children's books about the Niagara Parks Power Station's history.

Plan your visit

Timings
Getting there
Accessibility
Tourists entering Skylon Tower
  • The Niagara Tailrace Tunnel operates with specific tour times throughout the day.
  • The best time to take the tour is in the morning or early afternoon, when you can fully appreciate the sights and avoid potential evening crowds.
Exterior view of the Niagara Power Station

Address: Niagara Parks Power Station, 7005 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3R7, Canada | Find on Maps

The Tailrace Tunnel is located within the Niagara Parks Power Station, just a short walk from the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

Driving directions:

  • From Toronto, take the scenic Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) towards Niagara Falls.
  • If you're coming from Buffalo, NY, cross the Rainbow Bridge and follow signs for the Niagara River Parkway.

Public transport: The WEGO bus service offers convenient routes to the Tailrace Tunnel and other major attractions.

Parking: Ample parking is available near the Tailrace Tunnel at the Niagara Parks Power Station. Fees may apply, so check ahead for details.

Accessible restrooms with clear signage in a public area.
  • Accessible restrooms are available at the Niagara Parks Power Station and Skylon Tower for visitor convenience.
  • The elevator ride may be difficult to access for visitors with mobility challenges. Ask the staff for assistance at the entrance.
  • Service animals are welcome throughout the tour.

Frequently asked questions about the tailrace tunnel tickets

Do I need a separate ticket for the Tailrace Tunnel?

No. You don’t need a separate ticket to enter the Tailrace Tunnel. Your guided tour tickets include access to the Niagara Underground Power Station, Tailrace Tunnel, and the Skylon Tower.

Can I walk through the tunnel at my own pace, or is it a guided tour?

The Tailrace Tunnel experience is part of a guided walking tour. You'll be accompanied by an expert guide, so you won’t be able to explore the tunnel at your own pace.

Is the tailrace tunnel suitable for people with mobility limitations?

The Tailrace Tunnel descent includes a 180-foot glass elevator ride and a walk through a 2,200-foot tunnel, which may be unsuitable for you if you have significant mobility limitations or a fear of heights.

What should I wear when visiting the tailrace tunnel?

It can be cool and damp inside the tunnel, so we recommend dressing in layers and wearing sturdy closed-toe shoes, as the walking surface can be uneven in some areas.

Is photography allowed inside the tailrace tunnel?

Absolutely! Feel free to take photos of the unique vantage points from the viewing platform and the illuminated walkway. Just be considerate of other visitors and avoid using flash, as it can create glare on the informative plaques. While taking personal photos is encouraged, professional recording equipment and commercial shoots require prior approval from the management.