Major transformation planned for Niagara Falls historical attraction

A multi-phase redevelopment will transform a Niagara Falls flagship attraction.

The Journey Behind the Falls attraction, a tunnel system that leads to an observation platform to view the falls, is slated for upgrades.

Journey Behind the Falls dates back to 1832, when the first staircase was constructed down into the Niagara Gorge for visitors to enter what was then called the “Sheet of Falling Water” attraction. It now consists of 130-year-old tunnels through the bedrock that lead to the observation deck.

The planned updates include restoring a historic tunnel to expand the tunnel network, building a brand-new year‑round viewing platform and replacing the existing Rainbow viewing platform, a press release from Niagara Parks states.

“Niagara Parks is proud to invest in significant improvements at our flagship attraction, Journey Behind the Falls,” said Graham Coveney, Niagara Parks chair. “This is a bucket-list worthy experience – a must-see attraction that has existed in some form or another for over two centuries. These updates will improve and expand the guest experience while protecting its longevity as a top attraction for all guests when visiting Niagara Falls.”

Visitors will see a crane north of Table Rock Centre beginning on March 23 to facilitate construction within the gorge, and it will be in place until April 2027.

The first phase of the work is the redevelopment of a new stabilized, fully accessible tunnel leading to a brand-new heated and covered viewing platform. This transformation will expand capacity, reduce congestion and deliver an elevated year-round experience for guests, the press release states.

In the second phase, the current Rainbow Platform, a key viewing area at Journey Behind the Falls, will be reconstructed. The platform is nearing the end of its life cycle, Niagara Parks said. The new platform will meet modern safety standards and support a high‑quality visitor experience.

The restored tunnel and new secondary viewing platform from the first phase will allow the attraction to remain open during construction on the Rainbow Platform. Phase two is expected to be completed by May 2028.

“Improving the year-round experience at Journey Behind the Falls year-round supports the Ontario government’s plan to unlock the full potential of the Niagara Region as a world-renowned tourism destination,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Niagara Falls is already an iconic, globally recognized attraction, and extending access to its most exciting attraction gives visitors more flexibility while helping to drive economic growth and strengthen Ontario’s tourism sector.”

For more information, see the Niagara Parks page here.