Whirlpool Aero Car
3850 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON, ON L2E 3E8
Suspended high over the Niagara River, the Whirlpool Aero Car passes directly over the Niagara Whirlpool—a swirling whitewater vortex created by conflicting currents in the river. The cable car has been on the go for more than a century, carrying passengers for a thrilling view of the Class 6 rapids below. Fun fact: While it starts and ends on Canadian shores, the cable car actually crosses the US border four times during the 10-minute ride.
The Basics
Showcasing the power of the Niagara River’s mighty currents, the Whirlpool Aero Car is an excellent activity for visitors who have come to see Niagara Falls, whether by bus tour, cruise, or helicopter, or from one of the many surrounding viewpoints. Niagara Falls day tours, which make the rounds of the Niagara area’s top attractions, including the Aero Car, depart from Brampton, Ontario; Niagara, NY; Niagara, Ontario; and Toronto, Ontario. Many day tours include free time during which participants can ride the Whirlpool Aero Car—usually at their own expense. You can purchase tickets for the Whirlpool Aero Car in advance or upon arrival.
Things to Know Before You Go
Though the Whirlpool Aero Car is more than a century old, it has had several retrofits since it was first constructed. The ride is smooth and comfortable.
The 1,800-foot (550-meter) Whirlpool Aero Car journey takes about 10 minutes.
The cable car can hold up to 35 passengers at a time.
The Whirlpool Aero Car is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Whirlpool Aero Car departs from Canada’s side of Niagara Falls, though it crosses into the US several times during its over-water route. The terminal is around 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) north of Horseshoe Falls, along the Niagara Parkway. The WEGO (green line) bus runs from Table Rock to the Whirlpool Aero Car, and departs at least every 20 minutes during summer, and every 30 minutes from October to May.
When to Get There
The Whirlpool Aero Car is open April to November. Lines occasionally form during the peak visiting months of July and August; to avoid them, come in early morning or late afternoon.
The Niagara Whirlpool
The Niagara Whirlpool is located at a sharp bend in the gorge, which causes a spiraling torrent to form. The Class VI white-water rapids in this section of the river are powerful enough to pull logs and other floating debris into the maelstrom.
Ways to explore
However you choose to see Niagara Falls—on a bus tour, boat cruise, helicopter flight, or from one of the many surrounding viewpoints—the Whirlpool Aero Car makes a unique addition to any itinerary. Reserve your timeslot in advance to avoid waiting in line, then hop aboard to enjoy the panoramic views.
Many full-day tours of Niagara Falls stop for photos at the Niagara Whirlpool, and some include a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car or free time to experience the attraction independently. You can also combine it with other top attractions with a Niagara Falls Pass.
Accessibility
The Whirlpool Aero Car is not accessible to passengers using wheelchairs; there are a total of 80 steps to enter/exit the cable car, and no seating is available on board.
Age limits
Reduced-rate admission tickets are available for passengers under 13, while children under 3 can visit for free. Note that strollers aren’t permitted on board.
What to pack
Your ticket or e-ticket, reusable water bottle, camera, sunscreen, sunglasses
What to wear
Avoid wearing loose garments or anything that could fall off while riding the cable car.
Not allowed
Put your phone on airplane mode—the cable car swings over the US border, and some passengers have reported roaming fees.
Amenities
Restroom, gift shop, snack bar, free parking
Address
The Whirlpool Aero Car departs from the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, about 3 miles (5 kilometers) north of Horseshoe Falls. It’s easy to get there by car or bus.
Driving
To reach the Whirlpool Aero Car departure terminal from central Niagara Falls, head north along the Niagara Parkway. It’s about a 10-minute drive, and there is free parking available on-site.
Public transportation
The WEGO (Green Line) bus connects the Whirlpool Aero Car with other Niagara Falls attractions. It departs at least every 20 minutes during the summer, and every 30 minutes from October to May.
Best times to visit
The Aero Car usually operates between 10am and 5pm, with the final car departing 20 minutes before closing. Early morning and late afternoon tend to be the quietest times to visit.
Best days to visit
The cable car runs daily, but it’s often at its most crowded on weekends. Book a midweek timeslot to beat the crowds.
Best months to visit
The Whirlpool Aero Car is open seasonally from April through November. Lines can be long during the peak months of July and August, so visit in May or September instead.
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