Journey Behind the Falls
6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON, ON L2E 6T2
Niagara Falls is an incredible sight from land and by boat, but Journey Behind the Falls is all about experiencing the waterfall's power while getting up close and personal—and wet. Standing on an observation deck behind the falls, where the equivalent of more than 1 million bathtubs worth of water thunder over the edge every minute, is a truly one-of-a-kind experience of Niagara.
The basics
No other Niagara experience quite rivals standing up close to the thunderous roaring of the mighty falls—not even a Niagara Falls boat tour aboard the Maid of the Mist or Niagara City Cruises. At Journey Behind the Falls, visitors descend 125 feet by elevator to a series of tunnels bored into the rock behind Niagara Falls. The two tunnels, which extend approximately 150 feet (46 meters) behind Horseshoe Falls, lead to views of water cascades right in front of the open cave entrances.
The best part is stepping out on the observation deck for a truly different and incredible perspective up close to the falls—you might get soaked watching the Niagara River pour down from the heavens, but it’s worth it!
Things to know before you go
Journey Behind the Falls consists of an observation platform and series of tunnels near the bottom of Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian shore.
Ponchos are provided and are fine for keeping dry in summer. But during cooler months, be sure to bring a raincoat and warm layers.
It’s worth pairing your visit with other Niagara Parks attractions—like the Niagara Power Station, the area’s newest landmark.
How to get there
Journey Behind the Falls is located off Niagara Parkway on the Canadian side of the falls, directly across from Horseshoe Falls. Enter the tunnels through the Table Rock House, which has visitor information.
When to get there
Journey Behind the Falls is open year-round. The best time to go on a Journey Behind the Falls tour is early in the day. During the summer, there’s also a nighttime fireworks show several times weekly.
Three in one
Niagara Falls is actually composed of three sets of falls: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls (also known as Canadian Falls). Horseshoe Falls is the cascade behind which Journey Behind the Falls travels. It’s an incredibly popular attraction, whether you’re planning your falls visit from the Ontario (Canada) side or the New York (US) side.
Ways to explore
No other Niagara experience rivals standing close to the thunderous roar of the mighty falls—not even a Niagara Falls boat tour aboard the Maid of the Mist or Niagara City Cruises. At Journey Behind the Falls, you'll descend 125 feet (38 meters) by elevator to a series of tunnels bored into the rock behind Niagara Falls. The two tunnels that extend behind Horseshoe Falls lead you to views of water cascades right in front of the open cave entrances.
Accessibility
The upper viewing deck is wheelchair accessible via elevators and straight tunnels, but the lower deck is not. There’s plenty of paid accessible parking in the area.
Age limits
None.
What to pack
Waterproof cover for your phone or camera if you want to take pictures, and a change of clothes and shoes
What to wear
You will be provided with a poncho but are likely to get wet regardless—wear shoes and clothing that will dry easily.
Not allowed
Strollers, smoking
Amenities
Use the amenities at the Table Rock Welcome Centre, including eateries, gift shops, and restrooms.
Address
Journey Behind the Falls is located on the Canadian side of the falls, directly across from Horseshoe Falls. Enter the tunnels through the Table Rock Welcome Centre, which has visitor information.
Driving
Niagara Falls is about 82 miles (133 kilometers) from Toronto, a 2-hour drive. Journey Behind the Falls is right beside the Niagara River Parkway. There’s plenty of paid parking in the area.
Public transportation
If you’re staying in the area, the local WEGO shuttle bus and Niagara Regional Transit buses stop nearby.
Best times to visit
The attraction opens at 9am; closing times vary by season. It usually closes around 8pm in the warmer months and over holidays.
Best days to visit
Journey Behind the Falls is open every day except major holidays. It’s likely to be busier on weekends, so visit midweek if you can.
Best months to visit
The experience varies by season. Hot summers mean getting wet can be refreshing, while seeing the falls partially frozen from the upper deck in winter is also neat—just dress warm.
Special events
Nightly fireworks shows at Niagara Falls run from mid-May to mid-October.
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