One of the most well known and photographed Natural Wonders of the World, Niagara Falls has captivated world travelers for ages, but how many can say they’ve seen it up close? A pretty photo is lovely, but nothing beats a trip to the New York/Ontario border to get up close to this iconic attraction. Whether you’re looking for a short trip or want to include an unforgettable stop on a multiday adventure, there are a wide variety of fun and affordable tours to Niagara Falls. Here is a quick guide to the many amazing ways to view this majestic wonder.

Take a boat up to Niagara Falls

Sure, anyone can say they’ve seen Niagara Falls, but who can compare the experience of feeling the spray of the waterfalls on your skin and the roar of the waves in your ears. Well, with the popularity of the Maid of the Mist cruise, quite a few actually. But that shouldn’t deter you from joining their mighty ranks!

There are plenty of spectacular cruises to Niagara Falls, including Hornblower’s small group cruises along the Canadian side. (They even offer a VIP package that includes lunch overlooking the falls from a scenic restaurant!) For a truly thrilling experience, embark on a wet jet ride through the rapids.

Fly over Niagara Falls by plane or helicopter

Let’s face it: soaring over Niagara Falls is one of the best ways to see this natural wonder. Hop into a private plane or helicopter to see every inch of the falls. If you want a thrilling experience but not up for paying for a helicopter tour, then ride the Whirlpool Aero Car. This antique 35-passenger cable car has been running since 1916 and travels approximately 3,600 feet from one end of the Niagara River to another on the Canadian side. You’ll definitely get a bird’s eye view!

Stand beside the falls!

If you want something that isn’t in the water or the air, then the many viewpoints are an easy way to see Niagara Falls up close. Cave of the Winds offers one of the best experiences from the New York side, and Journey Behind the Falls another great view from the Canadian. Walk along the many platforms and boardwalks around the falls to see the spectacular phenomenon from many different angles.

You can also ride to the top of one of Niagara Falls’s two observation towers and get a pristine, panoramic shot before you leave! Prospect Point offers great views from the U.S. side, while Skylon is your go-to for the Canadian side.

See Niagara Falls illuminated at night

Get a different perspective when the sun goes down. At dusk each day, Niagara Falls is transformed into a water and light masterpiece. Experience colorful LED lights illuminating the water from a variety of angles. This evening show is a great reason why it’s worth staying the night at Niagara Falls but you can also find same-day tours that include the lights show.  In summer it gets even more magical. If you visit from mid-June to early-September, enjoy a nightly display of fireworks bursting in the sky above the falls.

Stroll through Niagara Falls’ state parks

Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the country and one of the most gorgeous. With 15-plus miles of hiking trails, the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center and the Aquarium of Niagara, there’s plenty to explore nearby.

Plus, you also have Whirlpool State Park, another New York park that features the Niagara Whirlpool, a 125 ft. (38 m) deep pool that moves counterclockwise at 30-35 miles per hour and that’s often overshadowed by the falls.

If you’re on the Canadian side, be sure to check out the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve in Ontario, which hosts its own view of the whirlpool.

One last park worth exploring is the Queen Victoria Park in Ontario, which offers excellent views of the falls beside a vast and gorgeous garden. If you don’t feel like walking around too much, don’t worry, because you can also ride a horse throughout the area.

With so many ways to enjoy this natural wonder, it’s hard to decide which to choose. Experience the best of Niagara Falls with an all-inclusive Niagara Falls day trip to both the Canadian and U.S. side. For more ideas about things you can do in and around Niagara Falls, be sure to visit tours4fun.com!