Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist Boat Ride

Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist is an absolutely epic experience that is a must-do for those visiting Niagara Falls! 

Thank you to Maid of the Mist for sponsoring this post. As always, all opinions are my own. #ad #Iconic #MaidoftheMist #NiagaraFallsUSA

Seeing Niagara Falls from the Maid of the Mist gives you a whole new perspective on the enormity and power of the Falls.  From the United States, this is the only way to view the American Falls head on and truly get a sense of it’s majestic beauty.  This was truly one of the biggest highlights of our trip to Niagara Falls!!

What is the Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist?

Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist is a boat tour that takes lets you experience Niagara Falls up close and personal!  Passengers board and return on the American side.  During the trip, the boat crosses briefly into Canadian waters before returning.  Boats depart every 15 minutes.

The boat ride is totally exhilarating, but completely appropriate for children.  The sturdy Maid of the Mist is strong enough to handle the mighty Niagara River and the power of the cascading waters.  You do not go completely under the Falls, but right up next to them, where the spray and mist wash over everyone!

How long is the Maid of the Mist boat ride?

The tours are about 20 minutes long, but be sure to plan time for getting tickets, standing in line, and checking out the Observation Tower.  At the end of the boat ride, passengers have the option of taking the elevator back to the Observation Tower, or climbing up a steep path to get a close look.

Do you have to have a passport?

Since passengers depart and return to the US, no passports are required.

How do I get to the Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist?

Parking is available in Niagara Falls State Park’s Parking Lot 1, located right near the Visitor Center.

How much are tickets?

The current prices are as follows:

• Adults $19.25
• Children (ages 6-12) $11.20
• Children under 5 ride free with an adult

(Prices include the $1.25 fee for the elevator, which is necessary to reach the Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist landing).

Tickets can be purchased online or on site. For more information about Maid of the Mist tickets, visit their website.

Horseshoe Falls, or the Canadian Falls, can be viewed from Terrapin Point.  However, the Maid of the Mist charges right up in front of the Falls and all the passengers are caught up in the spray.  It’s a truly exhilarating experience.

Tips for Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist

Lines for Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist can be long in peak season, so go early in the day if possible.  The weekends are busier as well, so try mid-week for the shortest wait time.  Employees will provide you with a blue poncho.

Here are some tips:

• I recommend having a waterproof case for your phone so that you can still take photos – the views are unlike any you can get from the top of the Falls!
  • A waterproof camera or disposable camera is also nice to have.
• Large backpacks can be difficult to fit under your poncho, so pack lightly with a small day pack.
• If you do not want to get as wet, find a spot on the lower deck.
• Allow yourself extra time to take in the views from the Observation Tower before or after your ride on Maid of the Mist.

Check out this video I took of the Falls from the Observation Deck one evening:

Check out our review of the Sheraton Niagara Falls – a great place to STAY and enjoy the area.