Maid of the Mist Steamboat

The basics

The Maid of the Mist tour departs from the Niagara River in New York, on the American side of the falls. Cruising past the impressive American and Bridal Veil Falls. Then ventures into the dense mist inside the curve of Horseshoe Falls. Also called the Canadian Falls, Horseshoe Falls is the largest of Niagara’s three waterfalls.

Things to know before you go

• Boats depart every 15 minutes, weather permitting and the entire excursion takes about 20 minutes.

• All boats are wheelchair accessible and offer free Wi-Fi.

• If you’re coming from the Canadian side of the falls, make sure you have the necessary documentation.

• Take advantage of the free blue rain poncho.

How to get there

You’ll find the Maid of the Mist boat landing on Prospect Street in Niagara Falls, New York. On-site parking is available near the Niagara Falls State Park Visitor Center. All Maid of the Mist boat tours depart from New York. However, some tours from Canada include transportation to the boat’s departure point.

When to get there

The Maid of the Mist boat tours run from April to October. The summer months are the busiest, so it’s best to book your Maid of the Mist steamboat ticket in advance. Choose an early-morning cruise if you want to avoid the biggest crowds.

Best views from the Maid of the Mist

When you board your Maid of the Mist boat, head starboard—the right side when facing the front of the boat—as this side comes closest to the falls. On the return journey, you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the American Falls. Meanwhile the powerful cascade will treat you to a veritable shower of mist.

Ways to explore

With tours departing every 15 minutes, the entire process is streamlined—board the boat on a first-come, first-served basis, and don’t stress about time slots. Later, check out the view from the Niagara Falls Observation Tower with its platform that stretches far out over the gorge, which your ticket also includes access to. For even more flexibility in your ticket, purchase online and receive a virtual voucher, which will be valid for the entire season. Redeem it for a ticket once you make it to the Falls. A trip on the Maid of the Mist is also often included on bus tours of the region.

Accessibility

The boats are fully wheelchair accessible, and there is seating on board.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Pack your belongings in a waterproof bag, and bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, and water.

What to wear

Choose clothes that dry quickly and are OK with getting wet.

Not allowed

Strollers, pets

Amenities

Wi-Fi, complimentary rain poncho

Address

Niagara Falls is a popular destination, and parking around the Falls fills up quickly. There are plenty of bus tours if you don’t want to worry about your own transport.

Driving

The closest parking lot to the Maid of the Mist departure point is located at 333 Prospect Street, a 15-minute drive from the Niagara Falls International Airport. Head north on Williams Road and turn right onto the Great Lakes Seaway Trail. Take the exit for the Niagara Scenic Parkway, and go straight through the roundabout onto Riverway, which turns into Prospect Street. The parking lot will be on the left.

Public transportation

By bus, it takes about an hour to travel from the airport. Catch the 155 Niagara Falls Downtown bus outside the airport, and get off at Buffalo Avenue 1st Street West. It’s a 5-minute walk to the ticket booth from there.

Best times to visit

The morning tends to be the quietest time.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are always better—try to avoid long weekends and other holidays. The boats run seven days a week, spring through fall.

Best months to visit

September is an ideal time—the crowds are winding down, the summer warmth still lingers, and the leaves are changing colors. Boat tours are not available from November through April, but the observation deck is open year-round.

Special events

There are no specific events associated with Maid of the Mist, but the Fourth of July in Niagara Falls is a popular event with fireworks over the falls, food trucks, and live music.