There’s a Massive Tunnel Underneath Niagara Falls That’s Now Open to Tourists
Updated: Jan. 05, 2023
Thanks to the reveal of the Niagara Falls tunnel, there's a new way to soak in views of the beloved triple waterfall.
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Niagara Falls has earned a spot on many travelers’ bucket lists since it became a tourist destination in the mid-1800s. Now, sightseers have a new reason to flock to the falls—and an opportunity to experience the legendary triple waterfall in a way they haven’t before.
The Niagara Falls tunnel is located 180 feet under the Niagara Parks Power Station. The power station, which was in operation from 1905 to 2006, transformed the falls’ powerful water into usable electricity. Now, tourists have the opportunity to roam the 2,200-foot-long tunnel, dive into its history, explore artifacts and marvel at the iconic sights with a fresh perspective. Even if you’ve been to Niagara Falls in the past, you might want to consider booking another trip because won’t get views like this anywhere else.
What is the Niagara Falls tunnel like?
When you visit, you’ll take a glass-enclosed elevator to reach the Niagara Falls tunnel. It’s fully wheelchair accessible so everyone can enjoy the views. Once you’re there, you’ll have the opportunity to meander around the tunnel itself, which is the path the water took to travel the tunnel.
At the end of the tunnel, you’ll reach a 65-foot viewing platform to absorb the beauty of Niagara Falls. It’s river-level and provides visitors a chance to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime views of Horseshoe Falls, the most extensive of the three waterfalls.
Why it’s important
The Niagara Falls tunnel tour is educational, as you’ll see artifacts from this historic hydroelectric plant’s rich history of converting the falls’ water into electricity. There are guided or self-tours available so you can select whichever suits your needs best.
Though the hydroelectric plant is no longer in operation, it once provided electricity to businesses and homes in the surrounding area. Now, visitors have the opportunity to discover what it took to accomplish such an incredible engineering feat. It took thousands of workers four years to dig the tunnel with the help of dynamite, pickaxes and shovels.
It held 71,000 gallons of water which rushed through the tunnel at up to 29 feet per second. If that’s not a marvel, we don’t know what is! Visiting the tunnel is an incredible learning opportunity for you and your family to witness what a historic hydroelectric plant looks like.
How to visit the Niagara Falls tunnel
Because the tunnel is located on the Canada side, be sure to pack your passport! August and September are widely considered the best two months to visit the falls since the busy summer season is starting to wind down and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and shorter lines.
You don’t need to purchase tickets in advance as they’re available at Niagara Parks Power Station above the tunnel. However, they’re available on a first-come-first-served basis, so if you’re visiting during a crowded time of year, booking in advance is recommended.
And here’s some great news: If you purchased a regular ticket to the Power Station, a visit to the tunnel is included.
Once you have your ticket there are a few additional things to keep in mind. Be sure you wear your most comfortable pair of shoes and remember that because the Niagara Falls tunnel is underground, it’s chilly. Even on a hot summer day, bringing a light jacket could be a good idea. You can also request a recyclable rain poncho if you desire.
Now that you’re armed with all the knowledge you need to make your trip to the tunnel a success, double-check your travel checklist and get on your way!
Originally Published: November 18, 2022
