The monumental Niagara Falls is one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the American continent, and there are many ways to visit them: you can admire them directly from the ridge (I highly recommend the Canadian side), you can get a closer view by taking the Maid of the Mist boat, which takes you right up to the falls, or you can opt for an unforgettable panoramic view from above, a breathtaking sight that allows you to appreciate not only these imposing waterfalls but also the fascinating surrounding region… What am I talking about? The Niagara Falls Observation Deck, also known as the Skylon Tower.
What is Skylon Tower?
It’s an imposing structure that, once you arrive at Niagara Falls, will be quite hard to miss… we are indeed talking about a futuristic-designed building standing tall at 518 feet, located on the Canadian side, towering among the world’s most famous waterfalls. It was inaugurated in 1965, and thanks to the panoramic observatory at the top, it allows you to enjoy extraordinary views. But that’s not all: the Skylon Tower also includes two dining areas, an art gallery, and a 3D/4D cinema area.
To access the tower, you need to take one of the three outdoor panoramic elevators, which will take you to the top in just 52 seconds, allowing you to enjoy a splendid view in motion during the ascent.
Tip: Personally, I highly recommend a Skylon Tower tour to anyone visiting Niagara Falls, not only for the beauty of the view but also for the affordable cost of the attraction.
Skylon Tower Observation Deck Vista
Here are some glimpses to give you an idea of the panorama that awaits you.
Skylon Tower Attractions
Of course, the main attraction is the observatory, a 360-degree platform equipped with informative panels that will allow you to admire the American Falls, the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, Goat Island, Buffalo, Lake Erie, the agricultural region of Niagara-on-the-Lake, and much more. However, there’s another attraction that’s decidedly unusual and particularly beloved by visitors: the Revolving Dining Room, a circular restaurant with breathtaking views of the falls located on a revolving platform that completes a full rotation every hour.
For once in your life, you won’t have the problem of choosing the right seat; the best view will find you! It’s an upscale restaurant, and accordingly, the prices may not be within everyone’s budget. For this reason, there’s another option, the Summit Suite Buffet, a more affordable buffet area with a view of the falls (without the revolving effect, though!).
But it doesn’t end there! Among the attractions of the Skylon Tower, you can also find:
- “Legends of Niagara Falls,” a film projected in 3D/4D technology that will tell you the geological history of the falls through fascinating special effects. Studio and
- Gallery of Angelo Rossi, a famous glass artist who will demonstrate his artisanal techniques live.
Tip: If you don’t want to miss the panoramic meal on the revolving platform, there’s a way to offset the cost: all-inclusive tour that, in addition to including a meal in the Revolving Dining Room, allows you to access all the major attractions in Niagara Falls, including some truly spectacular activities like a helicopter flight over the falls.
Skylon Tower Revolving Dining Room
Here’s a video dedicated to the unusual revolving restaurant at Niagara Falls.
Skylon Tower Tickets
Access to the observatory requires payment, the amount is quite affordable. If you book lunch or dinner at the facility (either in the buffet or the revolving restaurant), admission to the observation deck is included.
Combo Tickets
There are other types of tickets that I find very interesting because they allow you to combine the Skylon Tower with other popular attractions at Niagara Falls. Here are two examples:
Skylon Tower + Maid of the Mist:Â includes a visit to the Skylon Tower and the boat cruise that takes you up close to the falls.
All-Inclusive Exclusive Tour: includes all the major attractions of Niagara Falls:
- Skylon Tower Observation
- Deck Journey Behind the Falls: an exploration of the tunnels behind Niagara Falls
- Hornblower Cruise that takes you to the base of the falls
- 12-minute helicopter ride Lunch in the Skylon Tower’s revolving dining room
- Pick-up and drop-off at Ontario hotels
- Multilingual guide
- Stops with guide explanations at the following points of interest:
- Edge of the falls
- Origin of the falls
- Power generating station
- Rapids observation platform
- Floral clock
Keep in mind that these two tours depart from the Canadian side, so if you’re coming from the American side, you’ll need to make your way to the opposite side. Below are the directions.
How to Get There?
Skylon Tower is located on the Canadian side, right by the falls. If you’re coming from the American side, you’ll need to cross the Rainbow Bridge and present your passport to customs personnel. If you’re on foot, allow at least 25 minutes for the journey; if you’re driving, the distance is quite short, but keep in mind that parking at the facility is subject to a fee.
The Tower Hotel
If a panoramic platform isn’t enough for you, there’s also the opportunity to admire the unparalleled view of Niagara Falls from your hotel room. How can you do that? Book a room at the Tower Hotel (on the Canadian side) and enjoy a truly unique stay. You can find information on this and other similar accommodation options in our article on Niagara Falls accommodations.
