Niagara Falls is proverbial for vast amounts of water. But can you get close enough to the American Falls and the Horseshoe Falls to get a good view without getting wet?
Yes, it is entirely possible to view Niagara Falls, even from quite a close distance, without getting wet. There are also numerous other activities near and around the falls that don’t involve getting wet.
If you’re determined to stay dry on your visit to Niagara Falls, I’ll share some tips and insider advice to help you see and experience the falls without getting wet.
It’s Easier to Stay Dry on the American Side of Niagara Falls
The direction of the river flow and thus the direction of the falling water means that the spray from both the American Falls and the Horseshoe Falls rises up and moves across the Canadian side of the river gorge, then falls on the land on that side.
On the American side of the gorge, you can stand right at the edge of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls on Goat Island, Luna Island, and Prospect Point, and see the water fall away at your feet, without any spray to speak of falling back on you to get you wet.
The edge of the Horseshoe Falls at Terrapin Point is also very dramatic, and usually dry, although you are more likely to be hit by a little bit of spray from the gigantic plume of spray from the Horseshoe Falls in this location, depending on the general wind direction.
If you don’t want to get wet, avoid attractions such as Cave of the Winds or Maid of the Mist, both of which are almost guaranteed to get you a little bit (or a lot!) wet.
You can opt for things such as hiking around Niagara Falls State Park to take in the views of the falls from all angles, or riding the trolley around the park.
Or you can pay just over a dollar to access the Observation Deck and even ride the elevator to the bottom of the gorge. All of these activities do not involve getting wet from the spray of the falls.
You Can Even Stay Dry on the Canadian Side
Even though the mist from Niagara Falls tends to land on the Canadian side of the riverbank, it’s still entirely possible to view the falls without getting wet by placing yourself strategically along the gorge.
If you stay close to the Table Rock Welcome Center, especially upriver of the edge of the falls, you can stay out of most of the falling mist from the falls.
As you walk downriver along the edge of the gorge toward the American Falls, the spray will land with varying degrees of intensity at certain points along the way. Precisely where depends on the wind direction.
It’s a light mist, however, all along the walkway above the gorge, and you can stay dry with a raincoat or umbrella, if you want to take the walk. Otherwise, plan to take a bus, taxi or your own car down to other viewing points along the way.
Or you can walk farther away from the edge of the gorge, through Queen Victoria Park to see the view from a little distance. You should be shielded from the spray just a bit away from the river’s edge.
Just like on the American side, avoid the attractions that take you down to the base of the falls, such as Journey Behind the Falls, the Tunnel and the Niagara City Cruises.
Attractions Near Niagara Falls (Canada)
There are numerous attractions and activities near Niagara Falls, some within view of the falls, and some a bit farther afield, that don’t involve getting wet at all.
Here are a few you can check out:
Whitewater Walk
This attraction on the Canadian side involves an elevator ride down to the bottom of the river gorge, to enjoy a wooden boardwalk self-guided tour along the raging river’s edge.
It’s well down-river from the falls, but the powerful river current is channeled through a narrow canyon in a spectacular display of nature’s beauty.
The walk along the river’s edge on the boardwalk does not involve getting wet at all.
Whirlpool Aero Car
Take a ride on a restored, vintage cable car above the foaming water over the area known as the Whirlpool. Also downriver from Niagara Falls, this ride takes you high over the river below, with no risk of spray to dampen your style.
Botanical Garden & Butterfly Conservatory
Farther down river you’ll find the Niagara Parks Botanical Garden, which is completely free to visit (but you’ll pay for parking).
Located within the Botanical Garden is the Butterfly Conservatory. This large indoor greenhouse and tropical garden is home to over 40 species of butterflies, which are flying free within the enclosure. You can walk about amongst the beautiful insects and enjoy the feeling of being in the tropics year round.
You won’t get wet here, per se, but it is rather humid inside the conservatory.
Attractions Near Niagara Falls (USA)
While most of Niagara Falls State Park offers views of the falls without the risk of getting wet, there are numerous attractions nearby that offer even more ways to experience the Niagara River.
Niagara Gorge Discovery Center
This educational attraction within Niagara Falls State Park offers a chance to learn about the natural and geographical history of the region, including how the Niagara Gorge was formed.
Interactive, hands-on displays make it fun for kids and adults alike, and a 180 degree, multiscreen video presentation will immerse you in the power of Niagara Falls, all without getting wet.
Whirlpool State Park
This NY State Park is directly across from the Whirlpool Aero Car (on the Canadian side). From this park you can see spectacular views of the river from the street level. Or you can hike down to the river’s edge to experience the power of the river from up close.
Whether you choose to view the river from the upper or lower level, this park visit will allow you to keep dry.
Even better, there is no vehicle entrance fee for this State Park.