If you are planning a trip to Niagara Falls, one experience you can’t miss is the Maid of the Mist tour boat. This famous boat ride takes you right up close to the thundering waterfalls, giving you a front-row seat to one of nature’s most incredible shows.
What Is the Maid of the Mist Tour Boat?
The Maid of the Mist tour boat is a legendary attraction at Niagara Falls. It’s been running since 1846, making it one of the oldest tourist activities in North America. The boat takes you on a thrilling ride along the Niagara River, past the American Falls, and into the misty heart of the Horseshoe Falls. You will feel the power of the water and hear the roar of the falls as you get closer than you ever imagined.
The boats are double-deckers, so you can choose to stand on the top deck for the best views or stay on the lower deck if you want a little less splash. Each boat holds up to 600 people, and the ride lasts about 20 minutes.
Why Take the Niagara Falls Boat Tour?
Niagara Falls is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world, and the Niagara Falls boat tour on the Maid of the Mist is the best way to experience it up close. Here’s why:
- Amazing Views: You will see the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls from angles you can’t get anywhere else. The boat takes you right into the mist, where the falls surround you.
- Feel the Power: The sound of 600,000 gallons of water crashing down every second is something you will never forget. You’ll feel the vibrations and the cool mist on your face.
- Fun for Everyone: Whether you are with family, friends, or traveling solo, this boat tour is exciting and easy to enjoy. Kids under 5 ride free with an adult, making it a great family activity.
- A Piece of History: The Maid of the Mist has been carrying passengers for over 175 years. Famous people like Princess Diana and Marilyn Monroe have taken this ride!
If you are visiting Niagara Falls, the Maid of the Mist tour boat is a must-do. It’s the closest you can get to the falls without swimming!
How to Get Maid of the Mist Tickets
Getting Maid of the Mist tickets is simple, and you have a few options. You can buy them online or at the ticket booths when you arrive. Here’s how it works:
- Online: Visit the official Maid of the Mist website. You will get a voucher sent to your email that you can use any day during the season. This is a great way to purchase Maid of the Mist tickets in advance and save time. You can call at Ticketmaster Customer Phone Number to get your tickets as well.
- In Person: Ticket booths are located at Niagara Falls State Park near the Observation Tower. They open at 9 a.m., and you can buy tickets right before your ride. Boats leave every 15 minutes during busy times, so you won’t wait long.
- Ticket Prices (2025 Season):
- Adults (13+): $30.25
- Kids (6-12): $17.75
- Kids (5 and under): Free with a paying adult
The price includes the boat ride, a poncho, and access to the Observation Deck after your tour. You can pay with cash, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express. They don’t accept personal checks.
Why Purchase Maid of the Mist Tickets in Advance?
If you’re wondering whether to purchase Maid of the Mist tickets in advance, the answer is yes! Here’s why it’s a smart move:
- Save Time: During the busy summer months, lines at the ticket booths can get long. Buying online means you skip the ticket line and go straight to the boat line.
- Guarantee Your Spot: The Maid of the Mist is super popular, and tickets can sell out, especially on weekends or holidays. Pre-buying ensures you won’t miss out.
- Flexible Plans: Online tickets don’t lock you into a specific date or time. You can use them any day the boats are running, which gives you freedom to plan your trip.
- Peace of Mind: When you purchase Maid of the Mist tickets in advance, you don’t have to worry about rushing to the park or finding out it’s sold out.
To buy online, just go to the Maid of the Mist website, pick your tickets, and pay. You’ll get a voucher to show at the gate. It’s quick and easy!
When Does the Maid of the Mist Run?
The Niagara Falls boat tour on the Maid of the Mist runs from April to November each year. The exact opening day in April depends on when the ice clears from the Niagara River, but it’s usually early April. The season ends in early November. Since today is April 2, 2025, the boats are just starting up for the year!
Here’s the schedule for 2025, based on typical hours. Check the official website closer to your trip for exact dates, as they can shift slightly.
Maid of the Mist 2025 Schedule:
| Dates | Boat Hours | Observation Deck Hours | Store Hours |
| Jan 2 – Mar 31 | Closed | 10:00 am – 4:30 pm | Closed |
| Apr 1 – Opening Day | Closed | 10:00 am – 4:30 pm | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| Opening Day – May 18 | Weekdays: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Weekends: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Weekdays)
9:00 am – 6:00 pm (Weekends) |
10:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| May 27 – Jun 13 | Sun-Fri: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sat: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm |
8:30 am – 7:00 pm (Sun-Fri)
8:30 am – 9:00 pm (Sat) |
8:30 am – 7:30 pm (Sun-Fri)
8:30 am – 9:30 pm (Sat) |
| Jun 14 – Aug 5 | Daily: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm | 8:30 am – 11:00 pm | 8:30 am – 11:30 pm |
| Aug 6 – Aug 25 | Daily: 9:00 am – 7:30 pm | 8:30 am – 11:00 pm | 8:30 am – 11:30 pm |
| Aug 26 – Sep 1 | Daily: 9:00 am – 7:15 pm | 8:30 am – 11:00 pm | 8:30 am – 11:30 pm |
| Sep 2 – Sep 28 | Weekdays: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Weekends: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm |
8:30 am – 6:00 pm (Weekdays)
8:30 am – 7:00 pm (Weekends) |
8:30 am – 6:30 pm (Weekdays)
8:30 am – 7:30 pm (Weekends) |
| Sep 29 – Oct 26 | Daily: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | 8:30 am – 6:00 pm | 8:30 am – 6:30 pm |
| Oct 27 – Nov 2 | Daily: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm | 9:30 am – 5:00 pm | 9:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Nov 3 – Nov 30 | Closed | 10:00 am – 4:30 pm | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| Dec 1 – Dec 23 | Closed | 10:00 am – 4:30 pm | Closed |
The busiest times are June, July, and August, when the boats run longer hours. If you want shorter lines, try visiting in April, May, or late fall.
What to Expect on the Maid of the Mist Tour Boat
Here’s what happens when you take the Maid of the Mist tour boat:
- You begin at the Observation Tower in Niagara Falls State Park. Grab your free poncho and head to the elevator, which takes you down to the river.
- The boat docks at the bottom, and you will step aboard. Pick a spot—top deck for the best views, lower deck to stay a bit drier.
- The boat cruises past the American Falls first, then heads into the basin of the Horseshoe Falls. You will feel the mist and hear the roar as the captain steers close to the action.
- After about 20 minutes, the boat returns to the dock. You can climb back up to the Observation Deck for more views.
The whole experience, from parking to finishing, takes about an hour if you have tickets ready. It’s fully ADA-accessible, so everyone can join in. There’s no inside section on the boat, but the lower back area stays the driest.
Other Things to Do Near the Maid of the Mist
After your Maid of the Mist tour boat ride, there’s more to explore in Niagara Falls State Park:
- Cave of the Winds: Walk wooden paths right next to the Bridal Veil Falls. You’ll get soaked, but it’s a blast!
- Observation Tower: Enjoy panoramic views of all three falls from above.
- Goat Island: Take a short walk to see the falls from different angles and visit the Nikola Tesla Monument.
- Hiking Trails: Stroll along the park’s paths for more scenic spots.
You can also grab a bite at the park’s cafes or shop for souvenirs at the store near the ticket booths.
Wrapping Up
The Maid of the Mist tour boat is the ultimate way to experience Niagara Falls. It is affordable, and unforgettable. No matter if you are a first-time visitor or a repeat traveller, this Niagara Falls boat tour will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. how much are travis scott tickets front row
Don’t wait until you get there; purchase Maid of the Mist tickets in advance to save time and get your spot. With prices starting at $30.25 for adults and free for kids under 5, it’s a deal you can’t beat.
