Niagara Falls Canada: A Self Guided Audio Tour

Niagara Falls isn’t just a natural wonder – it’s where raw power and human ambition came together. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover how these thundering waters sparked a revolution in electricity, inspired death-defying stunts, and concealed an unsolved murder mystery – all while strolling through some of North America’s most stunning gardens. The tour starts at Oakes Garden Theatre, a Beaux Arts amphitheater named after gold-mining tycoon Sir Harry Oakes, whose unsolved 1943 murder in the Bahamas remains one of Niagara’s greatest mysteries. You’ll hear stories about barrel riders, tightrope walkers who performed stunts blindfolded, and the seven-year-old boy who miraculously survived going over the falls wearing only a life jacket. The tour ends at the War Memorial, which commemorates those who served in both World Wars and the Korean War.

1. 1

   Oakes Garden Theatre

   Pass by

   Pass through this elegant Beaux Arts amphitheater named after gold-mining tycoon Sir Harry Oakes, whose unsolved 1943 murder in the Bahamas remains one of Niagara's greatest mysteries. Marvel at the terraced gardens and classical architecture that frame your first stunning views of the falls.

2. 2

   American Falls

   Pass by

   Walk along the riverside path for close-up views of the American Falls, where thousands of gallons of water cascade over the rocky edge every second. Feel the refreshing mist on your face as you witness the raw power of this 180-foot waterfall.

3. 3

   Horseshoe Falls

   Pass by

   Stand in awe as six million cubic feet of water plunge over the edge every minute at the spectacular Horseshoe Falls, where daredevils once performed death-defying stunts. Experience the thundering roar and see why this became the site of countless barrel rides and tightrope walks.

4. 4

   Table Rock Welcome Centre

   Pass by

   Explore the spot where Table Rock once jutted dramatically over the gorge before its partial collapse in 1818, offering Father Hennepin his first breathtaking view in 1678. Discover how this iconic viewpoint has drawn visitors for centuries to witness the falls' incredible force up close.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Pass by

   Walk through this plaza dedicated to Serbian inventor Nikola Tesla, who harnessed Niagara's waters to create the world's first major hydroelectric plant in the 1890s. Learn how his alternating current system transformed these thundering falls into a powerhouse that still generates electricity for three million homes today.

6. 6

   Queen Victoria Park

   Pass by

   Stroll through beautifully manicured gardens where Indigenous legends come alive and tales of dramatic ice formations reveal how thousands once walked across the frozen river. Enjoy the perfectly landscaped grounds that have welcomed visitors since the 19th century.

7. 7

   Rainbow Bridge

   Pass by

   Pass by this iconic international crossing that connects Canada and the United States high above the Niagara River gorge. Marvel at how the bridge's name comes from the stunning rainbows created by the falls' constant mist.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   Pass by

   Discover this solemn tribute commemorating those who served in both World Wars and the Korean War, marking the end point of your tour. Reflect on the lives honoured here while surrounded by the natural wonder that has inspired generations.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   Pass by

   See where boats depart for the legendary Maid of the Mist experience, named after the Indigenous legend of Lelawala, the heartbroken maiden whose spirit lives on in the falls' roar. Watch as vessels brave the powerful currents to bring passengers right into the heart of the cascading waters.

10. 10

    Skylon Tower

    Pass by

    Look up at this 520-foot tower where visitors dine while slowly rotating above the falls for panoramic views of both the American and Canadian sides. Experience how this landmark offers a bird's-eye perspective of the natural wonder you've been exploring at ground level.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.