Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Optional Boat Cruise

If you’re planning a trip from Toronto to see Niagara Falls, you’ll want a tour that balances good value, flexibility, and memorable experiences. This day trip from BG TOURS CANADA INC. offers just that, with a solid 4.6-star rating from over 3,000 reviews. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking the essentials—falls, views, and a taste of the area—without breaking the bank.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the thoughtful inclusion of optional attractions like the Hornblower boat cruise and the Skylon Tower, which add a real wow factor. Plus, the guide’s knowledge and friendliness consistently earn praise, making the day flow smoothly. On the flip side, some might find the 9-hour duration a bit packed**, especially if you prefer more relaxed pacing or want to linger longer at your favorite spots.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive day trip with flexibility—whether you’re into scenic views, quick upgrades to attractions, or just want to tick Niagara Falls off your bucket list efficiently. If you’re traveling on a budget but still want a high-quality experience, this one’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $57 per person, this tour offers great value considering transportation, guide, and some included extras.
• Flexible Options: You can customize your experience with add-ons like the boat cruise, Journey Behind the Falls, or Skylon Tower for a more personalized visit.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviews highlight friendly, well-informed guides who make the trip educational and fun.
• Ample Free Time: Around 3 hours at Niagara Falls gives you enough opportunity to explore, take photos, or try activities.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned buses make the trip comfortable, even on warm days.
• Good Reviews: With a 4.6/5 rating from thousands of reviews, most travelers find this tour reliable and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

Pickup and Journey

Starting with a complimentary pickup from select Toronto locations, the journey begins early in the morning. The bus ride is in a climate-controlled vehicle, making the roughly 9-hour day manageable and comfortable. Your guide will share commentary about Toronto and Niagara, making the drive informative and engaging.

The route takes you along the Niagara River, with stops at key points like Queenston Heights and Brock’s Monument. These scenic stops are perfect for stretching your legs and snapping some photos before you reach the falls.

Arriving at Niagara Falls

Once there, you’ll have about 3 hours of free time to explore at your own pace. The main attraction, of course, is the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, which is breathtaking even from a distance. From here, you’ll be able to opt for several add-on experiences to elevate your visit.

Optional Attractions

• Hornblower Niagara Cruise: Usually the highlight, it gets you up close to the falls in a boat tour that sprays mist and delivers an unforgettable experience. During winter months, this cruise is replaced by other attractions like Journey Behind the Falls or Skylon Tower.
• Journey Behind the Falls: Offers a behind-the-scenes look at the falls via tunnels and observation decks—more about feeling the power than just watching.
• Skylon Tower: For panoramic views, the tower provides a spectacular vantage point over the falls and surrounding area.
• Zipline: If you’re into adrenaline, the zipline to the falls is available and provides a rush with views you can’t get elsewhere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Other Activities and Attractions

Beyond the main Niagara Falls experience, you can visit Niagara’s Fury, the Butterfly Conservatory, or the Botanical Gardens. For those craving a more playful vibe, Clifton Hill offers attractions like the Niagara SkyWheel, casinos, and funhouse-style museums like Ripley’s Believe It or Not.

Lunch and Food

Lunch options are available nearby, from sit-down restaurants to fast food joints. The tour also allows you to bring your own picnic, which you can enjoy right by the falls—definitely a memorable spot for a meal.

Return Trip

After a full day, your guide will lead you back to the bus for the return journey, arriving in Toronto around 6 pm—traffic permitting. The ride back is usually comfortable, with the guide sharing stories and highlights along the way.

How Good Is the Value?

For $57, this tour includes roundtrip transportation, a licensed guide, and a maple syrup tasting—plus the flexibility to add attractions. Many reviews rave about how well-organized and efficient the experience is, especially given the tight schedule. Some travelers even appreciate how easy it is to book additional activities on the day, like helicopter rides or ziplining, which can be arranged through the guide.

The value really shines in the balance between guided structure and free exploration. Most travelers find that the 3-hour free time is enough to see the main sights, take photos, and enjoy the falls without feeling rushed. If you want to skip the extra attractions, you still get a solid tour with plenty of iconic views.

Notes on Winter and Weather

During winter months, the boat cruise is replaced by other attractions, which might affect your experience if you were hoping for a boat ride. Also, weather can impact some activities like the boat cruise or ziplining, so it’s good to stay flexible.

Reviews and Real Experiences

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides—like Bernard and Manny—who are friendly, funny, and eager to help. Several mention how guides help with ticketing and make sure everyone is comfortable, which is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Others highlight the stunning views from the Skylon Tower or the thrill of the boat cruise, describing it as an “awe-inspiring” experience. Some note that the buses are comfortable, though a few mention that the vehicle’s shocks could be better—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to bumpy rides.

Downsides to Consider

The main downside is that it’s a long day, and if you’re not a fan of structured tours, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, while the guide’s commentary is generally appreciated, some reviews suggest that the behind-the-falls experience could be a little underwhelming if you’re expecting a more immersive or extensive tour.

Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to budget extra for meals or bring snacks. Also, during peak seasons, the crowds can be busy, which might make certain attractions feel crowded and touristy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to see Niagara Falls without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s also great for those who appreciate guided commentary and the ability to customize their visit with optional attractions. Families, couples, or solo travelers who want a full-day experience with a relaxed pace will find it suits their needs well.

If you’re someone who prefers more time at each attraction or is looking for a luxury, private experience, this might not be your best choice. But for most visitors wanting a comprehensive, fun, and affordable way to experience Niagara Falls for a day, it hits the right notes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 9 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time at Niagara Falls.

What is included in the price?
Roundtrip transportation from Toronto, a licensed guide, maple syrup tasting, and free time at Niagara Falls. Optional attraction tickets like the boat cruise are extra.

Can I book additional attractions on the day?
Yes, you can arrange skip-the-line tickets for attractions like Journey Behind the Falls or the Skylon Tower through your guide.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time to buy food at Niagara or bring your own picnic.

What about the winter months?
The boat cruise is replaced by other attractions like Journey Behind the Falls or Skylon Tower during winter, roughly December to May.

How much time do I get at Niagara Falls?
About 3 hours, which is enough for sightseeing, photos, and trying some optional activities.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the buses are air-conditioned and generally comfortable, though some reviews mention bumps due to road conditions.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically targeted at children, many reviews mention it’s suitable for all ages, especially with the optional activities like the boat cruise and Tower views.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

Final Thoughts

This Niagara Falls day tour from Toronto offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to experience one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. With its flexible options, friendly guides, and efficient schedule, it’s a solid pick for travelers who want to make the most of their day without fuss.

You’ll love the stunning views, the guide’s insights, and the ability to customize your experience with add-ons like the boat cruise or Skylon Tower. Most reviews highlight how smoothly the day runs and how much travelers appreciate the value. It’s not a luxury private tour, but for the price, it hits a sweet spot for many.

If you’re after a full, lively day with plenty of photo ops and activity options, this tour could be just what you need. Conversely, if you want a more laid-back, slow-paced exploration or more time at each attraction, consider other options. But overall, it’s a dependable, enjoyable way to check off Niagara Falls on your Canadian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: