Toronto: Niagara Falls Tour with Cruise and Behind The Falls

If you’re considering a day trip from Toronto to see Niagara Falls, you’re in luck. The “Niagara Falls Tour with Cruise and Behind The Falls” by BG Tours offers a well-rounded experience that combines the thrill of close-up views with scenic stops along the Niagara Parkway. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to revisit with new perspectives, this tour promises a comprehensive, enjoyable day without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we especially like about this tour is how it balances adventure with relaxation. The Hornblower Cruise gets you right into the spray of the falls, a truly exhilarating experience, while the Journey Behind the Falls allows you to stand directly beneath the cascading water, feeling its power from a safe, enclosed tunnel. Plus, the stops at the Floral Clock and Whirlpool Rapids add a layer of context and natural beauty that enriches the trip. One possible consideration? The tour is quite full, so if you’re hoping for a relaxed, unhurried day, it’s worth noting you’ll have limited free time at some stops, especially during busy seasons.

This experience will suit travelers who want a full, guided day with plenty of highlights, especially if they enjoy seeing multiple sights in one trip. It’s perfect for those who appreciate good value, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of adventure and scenic beauty. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo and prefer a stress-free way to tick Niagara Falls off your bucket list, this tour is likely to meet your expectations.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines boat cruise, behind-the-falls tunnel, and scenic stops.
• Excellent guide: Provides engaging, informative commentary, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.
• Value for money: For $119, you get skip-the-line access, transportation, and multiple attractions.
• Ample free time: Allows you to explore Niagara Falls at your own pace, with suggestions for activities.
• Seasonal adjustments: The Hornblower Cruise is replaced during winter months with other attractions like Skylon Tower.
• Accessible and organized: Pickup from several Toronto locations and a well-structured schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Comfortable Transport and Scenic Drive

The day begins early with a pickup from one of six convenient Toronto locations, most within walking distance of major hotels or Airbnbs. The coach ride itself is a highlight—air-conditioned, comfortable, and equipped with large windows so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery of Ontario’s lush landscape. The commentary from the tour guide is engaging, blending historical tidbits with local lore, which keeps the trip lively and informative.

Traveling along Niagara Parkway, you’ll notice how the landscape shifts from urban to a lush, natural corridor that leads directly to the falls. Many travelers appreciate the smooth ride and the ease of leaving the driving to someone else, freeing them up to relax or snap photos.

Scenic Stops on the Way

The tour isn’t just about the falls. It includes stops at some iconic Niagara sights. First up is the Niagara Parks’ Floral Clock, a 40-foot-diameter marvel filled with thousands of colorful plants and flowers, a perfect shot for any nature lover or floral enthusiast. Reviewers frequently mention how photogenic it is, though some suggest that if you’re pressed for time, it could be optional.

Next, you’ll visit the Niagara Whirlpool, a mesmerizing natural swirl at the end of the rapids where the gorge suddenly turns. It’s a great photo-op and a reminder of how powerful the river is. Some reviews note that these stops add context and variety to the tour, making it more than just a quick visit to the falls.

A sweet local touch is a stop at Maple Leaf Place, where you can sample maple syrup and fudge. If you’re interested, there’s a chance to try ice wine tasting for $14 per person—an optional but popular addition, especially for wine lovers. For those eager to skip this stop, there’s an option to head straight to the falls for extra free time.

The Main Event: Niagara Falls

Once you arrive at the falls, the tour truly heats up. The Hornblower Cruise (or its winter replacement) is an absolute highlight. You’ll be whisked close to the Horseshoe Falls, feeling the raw power and getting soaked by the mist. Many reviews rave about this boat ride: “The boat ride into Horseshoe Falls is fantastic: exhilarating, multi-sensory, a lifetime experience,” says one traveler.

In winter months (roughly December to early May), the cruise is replaced by other attractions like the Skylon Tower or the Butterfly Conservatory. While these alternatives are still enjoyable, the boat cruise remains a favorite for its intimacy and thrill.

Afterward, you’ll descend 125 feet into tunnels behind the falls at the Journey Behind the Falls. Standing beneath the roaring cascade and feeling the spray from above is a sensory experience few other attractions can match. Reviewers consistently mention how powerful and awe-inspiring this part of the tour is, with many claiming it’s the highlight of their visit.

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Free Time and Exploration

Following these experiences, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore Niagara Falls on your own. Whether you want to grab lunch, walk along Clifton Hill, or take more photos from different vantage points, the flexibility is appreciated. Some reviews highlight how important this free time is, especially since it allows visitors to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Return Journey

The bus ride back to Toronto is generally smooth, though some reviewers note that heavy traffic can extend the drive to about four hours. Nonetheless, most find the entire day well-organized, with the guide providing ongoing commentary and helpful tips. The tour aims to bring guests back to Toronto around 6 pm in summer, though traffic can influence timing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $119, this tour packs in transportation, skip-the-line tickets, and multiple highlights—definitely a cost-effective way to see Niagara Falls without the hassle of planning every detail. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets means more time at the falls and less waiting around, which many travelers appreciate. Plus, the guided commentary enriches the experience, turning a sightseeing trip into a mini-lesson on Niagara’s natural wonders and history.

The reviews consistently mention good value for money. One traveler noted that the boat ride alone justified the cost, describing it as “fantastic.” Others appreciated the well-organized schedule, which kept the day flowing smoothly despite the long hours.

What Travelers Love Most

• The knowledgeable guides who keep the group informed and entertained.
• The stunning views from multiple vantage points, from the boat to the tunnels behind the falls.
• The ample free time to explore and take photos at your own pace.
• The scenic stops like the Floral Clock and Whirlpool Rapids that add richness to the trip.

A Few Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some mention that the day can be long and busy, with limited time at certain stops. If you prefer a very relaxed pace or want more time at each attraction, you might consider a different tour option or adding extra time on your own.

The Bottom Line: Who’s This Tour Perfect For?

This guided tour is ideal for first-time visitors or those who want a comprehensive, worry-free experience. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, and want a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and educational commentary, it’s a smart choice. The inclusion of key attractions like the boat cruise and behind-the-falls tunnel makes it particularly appealing, especially if you’re eager to see the most iconic parts of Niagara.

Those who value good organization, helpful guides, and a good price point will find this tour rewarding. On the other hand, if you prefer a more leisurely, unrushed experience or want to spend extra time exploring each site independently, you might want to look at other options or extend your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs from early morning until roughly 6 pm in summer, with some variation depending on traffic.

Do I need a passport for this tour?
No, passports are not necessary since the tour stays on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.

What attractions are included during the tour?
You’ll visit the Floral Clock, Niagara Whirlpool, Maple Leaf Place (for tastings), and experience the boat cruise and Journey Behind the Falls.

Can I skip any stops?
Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the Maple Leaf Place and head directly to Niagara Falls for extra free time.

Is the boat cruise included?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets are included, but in winter months, it’s replaced with other attractions like the Skylon Tower or Butterfly Conservatory.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a reusable water bottle are recommended. Ponchos are provided for the boat cruise if purchased.

Is there an option for wine tasting?
Yes, for $14 per person, you can join an optional ice wine tasting at Maple Leaf Place.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls offers a well-organized, value-packed experience that captures the essence of one of North America’s most spectacular natural wonders. Its combination of thrilling boat rides, awe-inspiring behind-the-scenes tunnels, and scenic stops makes it a great choice for travelers who want a full day of highlights without the stress of planning.

The knowledgeable guides, combined with the spectacular scenery and convenient logistics, make this a memorable trip. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided tours that blend adventure, education, and free exploration time.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this tour delivers a balanced, enjoyable, and unforgettable Niagara experience. Just be prepared for a full day—wear comfortable shoes, bring a sense of adventure, and get ready to witness the incredible power of Niagara Falls.

You can check availability for your dates here: