How close does the Maid of the Mist get to the falls?

When you visit Niagara Falls, there's no better way to experience the power and beauty of the falls than taking a ride on the Maid of the Mist. Open from April to early November, this maritime journey will transport you close to the breathtaking natural wonder of the falls! But just how close does the Maid of the Mist get to the falls? In this blog, we'll answer this query and provide you with everything you need to know before embarking on this adventure!

How Close Does the Maid of the Mist Get to the Falls?

(Photo via @19stringsfortheharp / Instagram)

Short answer: Close enough to get soaked head to toe! Long answer: The Maid of the Mist boat ride is a 20-minute escapade that takes you on a journey through the Niagara River at the foot of the wondrous Niagara Gorge, and up close to the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. This thrilling boat ride then brings you a stone's throw away from the majestic Horseshoe Falls where you're enwrapped in its mystical wonder! The boat gets so close to the falls that you'll feel the exhilaration traveling in waves through your body, as the mist of the falls descends on your face and the thundering roar fills your ears!

Does the Maid of the Mist Go to Horseshoe Falls?

Yes, the Maid of the Mist boat ride takes you up close to the Horseshoe Falls. The boat sails from the American side and passes by the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls before momentarily crossing over to the Canadian side to arrive at Horseshoe Falls. While the boat doesn't go directly behind the falls, it gets close enough for an incredible view of one of the most iconic waterfalls in North America.

Riding on the Maid of the Mist

Experience the exhilaration of the mighty Niagara Falls with the Maid of the Mist boat ride at Niagara Reservation State Park in NY. You can park your car in the nearby park lot at the intersection of Prospect Street and Mayor Michael O’Laughlin Drive, then head to the boarding docks for a journey of a lifetime. The Maid of the Mist ferries departs every 15 minutes from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, allowing you to choose a time that suits your schedule. Don't miss out on the opportunity to get up close and personal with one of North America's most iconic natural wonders. 

(Photo via @themaidofthemist / Instagram)

Begin your adventure at the top of the Observation Tower and climb down to the base of the Niagara Gorge for the ride of a lifetime. But before you board the boat, savor an aerial view from the Observation Deck in anticipation of your thrilling boat tour! On the way down, you'll be given a rain poncho to protect you from the mist and spray of the falls, because you will surely get drenched! The poncho is included with the purchase of the ticket, so you don't have to worry about getting wet. There are two levels on the boat, with the lower deck providing a clear view safe from the water of the falls, and the upper deck with its clearer view of the falls where you will surely get doused head to toe!

Ticket Information for the Boat Rides

To ride on the Maid of the Mist, you must purchase tickets either online through the official website or in person at the ticket offices of Niagara Falls, New York.

Here's what you need to know about tickets: you can purchase them online and they're valid any day during the season, but no reservations for specific dates or times are accepted. So, make sure to arrive early to secure your spot on a first-come, first-served basis. Keep in mind that the tickets purchased in person are only valid for the day of purchase! Prices are in U.S. dollars and include the elevator cost to reach the boat's landing. Payment can be made with cash or major credit cards, but personal checks are not accepted. 

Keep in mind that the schedule and rates are subject to change without notice, and the ticket office closes 15 minutes before the last scheduled departure. Save yourself the hassle of buying tickets and navigating your way through the city to reach this spot by booking the Best of Niagara Falls, NY Tour. You'll be picked up from your location in Downtown and brought to the thrilling hotspots of Niagara Falls, USA such as the Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and Goat Island. As a bonus, you'll be treated to an enlivening helicopter ride to take in stunning views of falls, the gorge, and the surrounding spots! So, grab your rain poncho and get ready for an adventure you won't forget!

Beyond Maid of the Mist

Looking for an adrenaline rush beyond the Maid of the Mist? Niagara Falls State Park has got you covered with an array of thrilling activities. Step into the heart of the action at Cave of the Winds, where you can walk along a series of redwood decks nestled in the Niagara Gorge for an incredible up-close view of Bridal Veil Falls. Feel the spray of the falls on your face and get ready for a truly exhilarating experience. With so much to do and see in the park, you're sure to find the perfect activity to suit your adventure-seeking spirit!