Niagara Falls with Kids: What to Expect at Cave of the Winds
Views of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls from Cave of the Winds
If you really want to feel the power of Niagara Falls, there’s no better way than visiting Cave of the Winds. This family-friendly adventure puts you just steps from the rushing water, where you can see, hear, and feel the Falls. It’s a unique way to experience the Falls. If you’re planning a family trip to Niagara Falls, Cave of the Winds is an absolute must-do with kids.
We’ve done the Maid of the Mist boat ride multiple times (and still highly recommend it!), but this time we wanted to try something new. Cave of the Winds is a great alternative if you want to get up close to the Falls without going on a boat. Also, it’s highly recommended to combine both experiences in one day.
Buy your tickets in person at Goat Island or the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Welcome Center. Tickets for Cave of the Winds are timed, so make this is one of the first things you reserve when planning your visit.
Our Experience at Cave of the Winds
We didn’t expect the museum and movie at the beginning. It felt like a nice bonus to learn about the Falls before we got on the elevator down to the gorge. We absolutely loved the Hurricane Deck. Most people only last a few seconds under the heavy rush of water coming off Bridal Veil Falls, but we stayed there laughing and soaking it all in. Every few seconds, a fresh burst of water hit us like a bucket dumping over our backs. We were all smiles, especially knowing we had an extra change of clothes in the car. My kids (10 and 12) were totally in their element.
What to Expect at Cave of the Winds
View of the Horseshoe Falls after taking the elevator down to the Niagara Gorge
Your visit begins at the World Changed Here Pavilion, an interactive exhibit that shares the fascinating history of the Falls, including how Nikola Tesla harnessed its power. There’s also a short eight‑minute film about Niagara Falls State Park — a nice way to set the scene before heading to the Gorge.
Next, you’ll take an elevator 175 feet down into the Niagara Gorge, walk through a tunnel, and get your bright yellow poncho (don’t skip the hood — you’ll need it!).
“If you really want to feel the power of Niagara Falls, there’s no better way than visiting Cave of the Winds.”
One of the staff members joked that if you still had your Maid of the Mist poncho, you should wear that because it’s “better.” I thought they were kidding, but this one actually had a hood tie and felt a little thicker. Either way, don’t expect to stay dry — you’re here to get soaked.
From there, you’ll follow wooden walkways at your own pace, stopping at different viewpoints along the way. The wooden stairways lead you up to the Hurricane Deck, where you’ll be less than 20 feet from Bridal Veil Falls. It feels like standing in a tropical storm, with water spraying and rushing all around you.
When you’re ready to dry off, head back through the tunnel and wait for the elevator. It’s a little damp and chilly down there, but the wait wasn’t bad, even though the elevators only hold about 10 people at a time.
Do You Get Wet at Cave of the Winds?
Yes. Expect to get wet. Even with the poncho, the mist is strong, and the hood doesn’t stay on perfectly. Wear non-slip shoes that you don’t mind getting wet.
If you don’t want to be completely drenched, you can skip the Hurricane Deck and stick to the lower walkways. But honestly? The full soaking is worth it. We saw some people in bathing suits! Not a bad idea!
Up close and personal with the power of Niagara Falls
Is There an Age Restriction?
No. That said, here’s some FreshCruiser advice:
If you’re local or plan to come back, wait until your kids are at least 8 years old — they’ll appreciate the Hurricane Deck more and be less likely to feel overwhelmed by the power of the water.
If this is your once-in-a-lifetime trip, go for it even with younger kids. It’s such a unique experience to be that close to the Falls.
Can You Buy Cave of the Winds Tickets Online?
Tickets are sold in person only. You can buy them on Goat Island or the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Welcome Center.
When you buy them, you’re assigned a time to come back. If that time is full, you’ll get the next available slot. We went on a Wednesday morning and didn’t have to wait, but get your tickets as soon as you arrive in case your return time ends up being a few hours later.
Cave of the Winds
How Long Does Cave of the Winds Take?
Plan for about 45 minutes to an hour for the full experience:
10–15 minutes in the Pavilion & movie
5 minutes for the elevator & tunnel walk
20 minutes exploring the walkways and Hurricane Deck (or longer if your kids are like mine and want to stay in the spray as long as possible!)
Can I park close to Cave of the Winds?
The closest parking to the Cave of the Winds on Goat Island is Parking Lot 2, located at 15 Goat Island Loop Road. Follow the signs for Cave of the Winds, and you’ll be set.
FreshCruiser Tips for Cave of the Winds
Go early in the day to avoid long waits for timed tickets.
Bring water shoes, change of clothes
Take your time enjoying
Pair it with Maid of the Mist
What to Bring with you to Cave of the Winds
Change of clothes (leave in the car)
Towel (leave in the car)
Waterproof phone case with a strap
Hat clip if you plan to wear a hat
Shoes that can get wet (I recommend Tevas or water shoes)
Make a Day of It: Other Family-Friendly Things to Do Nearby
Short walk to the top of the Horseshoe Falls from the exit of Cave of the Winds in Niagara Falls
If you’re already on Goat Island, here are a few more fun things to add to your itinerary:
Niagara Falls Observation Tower – A quick stop with incredible panoramic views of the American and Horseshoe Falls.
Maid of the Mist – If you didn’t do it already, this boat ride is a must-do.
Three Sisters Islands – Short walking paths with pretty views
Niagara Gorge Trails – Easy trails for kids who need to burn off some energy.
FreshCruiser Tips for Cave of the Winds
Go early in the day to avoid long waits for timed tickets.
Bring extra socks — no one likes squishy shoes for the rest of the day.
Clip hats & sunglasses to your bag (or leave them behind). The water is powerful.
Pair it with Maid of the Mist. It’s an awesome one‑day double adventure.