Fodor's Expert Review Hornblower Niagara Cruises

Operating since 1846, when they were wooden-hulled, coal-fired steamboats, the misty tour boats are now run by Hornblower. Double-deck steel vessels tow fun-loving passengers on 20-minute journeys to the foot of the falls, where the spray is so heavy that ponchos must be distributed. From the observation areas along the falls, you can see those boarding the boats in their blue slickers. The very similar Maid of the Mist boat tours operate from the American side. Unless you cower in the center of the boat, your shoes and pants will get wet: wear quick-drying items or bring spares.