A View of Niagara Falls From Under the Rainbows

Rod MacDonald knows a thing or two about what to see and do in Niagara Falls, New York. As senior captain of the Maid of the Mist tour, he takes visitors on a scenic boat ride around Horseshoe Falls, typically from late April to early November (weather permitting). We chatted with MacDonald about what to expect on the boat ride, as well as his favorite activities for those traveling to one of the most popular New York State Parks.

What’s a typical ride on the Maid of the Mist tour like?

The boat departs from and returns to Niagara Falls State Park, giving visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area before and after hitting the water. The boat ride takes about half an hour—five minutes to board and a 20-minute ride. Then you might like to spend time in the park itself. You won’t be disappointed, that’s for sure. It’s such a beautiful area, and there’s so much to see and do. Take your time with it, and you’ll really enjoy it.

When is the best time to take a ride on the Maid of the Mist tour?

I love it after 4 p.m., or really anytime between 4 and 7 p.m., because that’s when you get the rainbows in front of the falls. It’s very pretty with the sun and the mist. Of course, that depends on the weather! As far as time of year, July to August are our busiest times, so the end of April to the end of May or during the fall would be the best time because it’s a bit quieter. That’s when the crowds are smaller, but we’ve got lots of room on the boat so you’re always going to have a spot.

On that note, do you have a favorite spot to stand on the boat?

Captain Rod MacDonald has spent several decades behind the wheel of the Maid of the Mist tour boat.

My preferred spot on the Maid of the Mist tour is the front of the boat, at the bow. You’re closer to the water, so you get a view of the current and the spray. The upper deck fills up faster—and that’s nice, too, because you get a good lookout from up there. If I were going with my family, I’d take them to the bow. The back of the boat at the stern is the driest, so if you don’t want to get wet, that’s where you go.

What else would you do or see during your day?

I’d allow time after your Maid of the Mist tour to visit Goat Island and the Cave of the Winds (a natural cave). Goat Island is really pretty and peaceful. It’s so serene, you can even forget where you are. Located just north of the Rainbow Bridge, the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center is also very interesting to see. You could easily spend a few hours that way, especially if you’re not rushing.

How can visitors get away from the crowds?

For a little bit of history, head to Old Fort Niagara about 15 miles north in Youngstown. You could easily spend all day, that way. And a lot of people don’t go up that way, so it’s maybe a little quieter. Take a drive on the beautiful Niagara Scenic Parkway. That’ll take you past the hydroelectric plant, and you’ll get a nice view of the gorge from above. You’ll [also] find lots of lovely little spots to stop at along the way. It’s a nice, relaxing day.

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