Discover the fascinating and complex history of Niagara Falls and its story of hydroelectric innovation. Visit the Skylon Tower with pre-reserved access, with your guide unraveling the story of Nikola Tesla and how he used water to change the world. End your tour at the Niagara Parks Power Station and the Tailrace Tunnel, diving 180 ft in a glass elevator for a walk through historic tunnels and a once-in-a-lifetime view.

Your journey into the history of hydropower begins at the Skylon Tower where you’ll meet your expert guide and look out over the Niagara Parks Power Station as well as the International Control Dam. Take a glass elevator to the top, where you’ll have time to enjoy the stunning view before walking on to view the Illumination Tower where the Falls are lit up in a wondrous light show each night.

Although man has recognized the power of electricity since Ancient Greece, it wasn’t until the 19th century that things started to really heat up! New discoveries and figures battled for supremacy in what has come to be known as the ‘War of the Currents’. Your guide will introduce you to key figures in this battle including Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. You’ll see Tesla’s memorial statue as you learn about how Niagara Falls was the ultimate decider in this struggle for supremacy.

When we get to Horsehoe Falls – the largest section of the three waterfalls that together form Niagara Falls – you'll spend some time at the majestic viewpoint, and see for yourself exactly why Tesla and others were inspired to harness the power of the rapidly flowing water. Then see how all of this theory plays out in action at the Niagara Parks Power Station. This 115-year-old building was a futuristic wonder when it first opened its doors in 1905. At this point, your guide will say goodbye and hand out audio guides so you can explore the Power Station and Tailrace Tunnel at your own pace. What you see from the top of the power station is just the tip of the iceberg. You’ll descend 180 feet through the inner workings of the power station, then walk the path the water flowed through the Tailrace Tunnel to a one-of-a-kind view from the base of Niagara Falls.

Sites Visited

• Niagara Falls
• Skylon Tower
• Illumination Tower (outside)
• Nikola Tesla Statue
• Table Rock
• Horseshoe Falls
• Niagara Parks Power Station
• Tailrace Tunnel (audio guide)