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Cave of the Winds

Perched beneath one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls, this unforgettable experience provides an up-close and wet view of Niagara Falls.

About this Attraction
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    What is Cave of the Winds?

    Located on the U.S. side of Niagara Falls within Niagara Falls State Park, Cave of the Winds is an immersive attraction that allows visitors to walk right up to the base of Bridal Veil Falls. Rather than viewing the falls from afar, this one-of-a-kind experience places sightseers on a series of wooden walkways and observation decks located just feet away from the rushing water. This thrilling attraction provides visitors with an extraordinary encounter with the force and beauty of Niagara Falls.

    Tourists in yellow rain ponchos walk on red wooden platforms near the powerful Cave of the Winds waterfall, with mist rising and lush green rocks around, under a bright blue sky.

    What to Expect at Cave of the Winds

    A Cave of the Winds experience begins at The World Changed Here Pavilion in Niagara Falls State Park. Through interactive exhibits and a short film, visitors learn about the history of the falls, including Nikola Tesla’s idea to harness their power in order to generate electricity. Next, visitors descend 175 feet down into the Niagara Gorge via an elevator shaft. Upon emerging at the base, guests are given a poncho and are led along a guided pathway to the wooden platforms that make up the attraction’s walkways and viewing decks. These structures are rebuilt every year to withstand the intense conditions at the base of the falls, ensuring an exciting yet safe adventure for all visitors.

    Poncho or not, prepare to get soaked! As visitors make their way along the boardwalks, they’ll feel the mist growing stronger and the roar of the water intensifying. Wind gusts can reach up to 68mph! For those looking for the ultimate thrill, the Hurricane Deck allows visitors to stand just a few feet from the crashing Bridal Veil Falls. Here, heavy winds and mist make for an exhilarating experience that captures the powerful energy of the falls.

    Special Events and Additional Info

    Cave of the Winds is open year-round, though the experience varies by season. The full outdoor walkways operate spring through autumn, while winter brings a modified but still engaging visit focused on the pavilion and gorge-level viewing areas.

    Admission fees vary by season. Ponchos and souvenir sandals are included during the warm-weather experience. Hours may change due to weather conditions or high water levels. Be sure to check the attraction’s website before visiting.

    Parking is available throughout Niagara Falls State Park.

    Plan Your Visit to Cave of the Winds

    Open daily, year-round

    Hours vary seasonally

    Summer Season

    Full Deck Experience: Typically May through October

    (Weather dependent)

    Winter Season

    Pavilion & Gorge Viewing Only: Typically November through April

    A large waterfall cascades over rocky cliffs with a rainbow in the mist. Numerous people in yellow ponchos explore Cave of the Winds, walking along red wooden walkways near the falls, surrounded by greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

    Where is Cave of the Winds?

    10 Goat Island Rd, Niagara Falls, NY 14303

    Directions

    Take Amtrak to Cave of the Winds

    Make your way to Niagara Falls effortlessly by taking Amtrak to the Niagara Falls Station. — Don’t forget to use the See New York & Save 15% discount! 

    Get picked up from Niagara Falls Station and taken to your reserved #NYTRAIN Enterprise Rent-a-Car. Click here to reserve your car or call the Niagara Falls office today at: 716-298-1000.

    Get 15% Off