Information
Landmark: Observation TowerCity: Buffalo
Country: USA New York
Continent: North America
Observation Tower, Buffalo, USA New York, North America
Overview
Rising above the gorge, the Niagara Falls Observation Tower-also known as the Prospect Point Observation Tower-stands as a must‑see spot in Niagara Falls State Park on the U. S. side.Rising 282 feet (86 meters) above the Niagara Gorge, it juts out over the rim so visitors can take in wide, uninterrupted views of all three waterfalls-American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls-along with the river curling through the gorge below.The tower’s design lets visitors walk out above the gorge onto an open-air deck, where wind tugs at their sleeves and the view drops away in every direction.A sleek steel frame rises from the river’s edge, with elevators carrying visitors smoothly from the water-level base to the high observation platform.At the tower’s base, visitors step aboard the famous Maid of the Mist boat tours, where the air smells faintly of river spray.From the tower, you see the falls from high above the river, the water flashing silver in the sun-views you won’t find on Goat Island or across the Canadian side.Wide-open views make it easy to snap stunning photos, take in the scenery, and watch for wildlife-from swift peregrine falcons slicing through the sky to bald eagles circling overhead-in this Audubon Important Bird Area.Visitors reach the tower by elevator, and the ride is fully wheelchair accessible, with smooth doors that slide open quietly.The site also has signs that share details about the falls and the land around them, including one that points out the roar you can hear from the overlook.It links straight into the other trails, so you can weave it into a full day of wandering-maybe past the pond where the ducks gather.It costs about $1.25 for adults and $0.75 for kids to visit the observation deck, though little ones can wander in for free.You’ll need to buy Maid of the Mist boat ride tickets separately; the boats leave right from the tower’s base, where you can hear the falls rumbling nearby.The tower’s open season runs from spring to late fall, and in the height of summer you can stay until the warm evening light fades.In winter, it’s either shut or open for fewer hours, sometimes with a dusty “Closed” sign hanging in the window.If you want to skip the crowds, swing by on a weekday-either early enough to feel the cool morning air or later in the afternoon when the sun starts to soften.Mist and spray drift from the falls, so it’s best to wear a waterproof jacket or a poncho that keeps you dry.The open-air deck can get surprisingly chilly, and the wind might whip at your sleeves, so dress warm.If you want to see Niagara Falls in all its power and beauty, head up the Observation Tower-it’s the only spot where the roar of the water meets sweeping views of the gorge and river below.
