Whirlpool Aero Car Reviews, Price & More (Local’s Guide)
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Looking for information about the Whirlpool Aero Car? Or are you trying to decide if this attraction is worth doing while you’re in Niagara Falls?
As a local, I’ve got you covered with all the info you need to know before you visit this attraction—from the price to parking and helpful reviews.
Plus, I’m sharing my honest opinion about the cost and a bunch of insider tips to help you plan the best trip.
Table of Contents
How long is the ride?
Once you’re on the cable car, the trip takes roughly 10 minutes. It moves slowly across the Niagara River, stops for a minute or so, then heads back toward the starting point of the ride.
Remember: you’ll have to wait in line before getting on, so be sure to factor in extra time for that.
I visited on a Saturday in late October, purchased my ticket in person, and ended up waiting roughly 30 – 45 minutes in line.
Wait times can vary, and will likely be longer during peak times like summer weekends and holidays.
How much does it cost?
The Whirlpool Aero Car costs $19 CAD for adults (13+) or $12.50 CAD for kids (3 – 12). Kids 2 and under are free.
Whirlpool Aero Car admission is included with the Niagara Parks Adventure Pass Plus and the Niagara Falls Pass.
These passes offer the best value if you’re planning to do several Niagara Parks attractions.
How much is parking?
The Whirlpool Aero Car has an on-site parking lot located directly in front of the attraction and parking is free.
What are the hours?
This attraction is open daily from mid-April to the beginning of November. The hours differ depending on the day and season.
Check the Niagara Parks website for up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Where to buy tickets
You can purchase tickets online from the Niagara Parks website.
When purchasing, you’ll be prompted to choose a date and time slot. However, you will still have to wait in line when you arrive.
Alternatively, you can purchase tickets at the attraction in person. Just be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing.
Even if you buy tickets in advance, you have to check in at the ticket window first before going to wait in line.
How to get there
The Whirlpool Aero Car is located on the Niagara Parkway, roughly a 10-minute drive from the tourist hub in Niagara Falls.
You can drive to the attraction yourself or take the WEGO bus (a hop-on, hop-off bus that travels between most major hotels and popular Niagara Falls attractions).
Best time to visit
As you can see from the photos in this post, I timed my visit to see the fall colours on full display, and the views did not disappoint.
I would absolutely recommend riding the Whirlpool Aero Car in autumn.
The views will be beautiful no matter what time of year you visit, but the fall colours add a little something extra to the experience.
If you want to avoid the crowds, I’d recommend doing this activity in the shoulder seasons (early spring or fall).
Arriving earlier in the morning on a weekday may also help you reduce your wait time.
Is the Whirlpool Aero Car worth it?
Yes—but with a caveat. This attraction is a unique experience that gives you fantastic views of the Niagara River and whirlpool rapids.
That said, it’s definitely overpriced. Considering the ride is only around 10 minutes, the $19 cost (for adults) is a bit steep.
If you have limited time in Niagara Falls or only have the budget for a few attractions, consider White Water Walk or a hike through the Niagara Glen (which is free) for views of the whirlpool rapids.
If you’d enjoy something more exciting, I’d recommend the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours. This tour takes you directly into the Class 5 Niagara River rapids for an exhilarating ride like no other. Just prepare to get soaked.
Whirlpool Aero Car admission is included with the Niagara Parks Adventure Pass Plus and the Niagara Falls Pass. If you’re planning to purchase one of these passes, the Aero Car is worth doing.
Whirlpool Aero Car reviews
I’ve rounded up a few of the most helpful reviews from Google, TripAdvisor, and Facebook groups to give you a better idea of the pros and cons:
👍 “Amazing view. Long wait and maybe not the greatest wait experience when it’s really hot out as they don’t provide any shade beyond maybe 50 people.”
👍 “I absolutely loved it! It was a one-of-a-kind experience. Although there was a bit of a wait, it was definitely worth it. Even though I’m afraid of heights and felt a bit nervous at first, the ride was so smooth that it turned out to be not scary at all.”
👎 “This was definitely underwhelming. People recommended this. It’s a little pricey for the 10-minute ride. Literally like 10 minutes. You get in the car, it goes over the river and back… the guide had a little speech but otherwise, we felt this was an activity we could have skipped. Beautiful view. We spent more time in the gift shop.”
👍 “Loved riding the aerocar. The water is beautiful; the surrounding area is beautiful. Everyone has to rotate sides so everyone gets all the views.”
👎 “Views from the ride are impressive. However, we stood in line for 2 hours to take the 20-minute ride. Even though we had a confirmed time on the reservation. Not worth the wait or the ride.”
👍 “This was one of our favourites on the trip. (Be sure to get there early in the morning.) The views were amazing.”
Insider tips from a local
Here are my best tips to make sure you have the best experience at this attraction:
- Free viewpoint: The viewing platform next to the Whirlpool Aero Car ticket window offers great views overlooking the gorge and whirlpool rapids. You can walk up and take pictures here for free even if you don’t ride the cable car.
- Parking hack: Since parking is free here, this is a great spot to park and then hop on the WEGO bus to visit nearby attractions like White Water Walk, the Niagara Glen, and the Butterfly Conservatory.
- Lunch: If you’re looking for lunch spots close to the Whirlpool Aero Car, there’s a hidden gem restaurant nearby called Fork You (authentic Peruvian food).
- Beat the crowds: Like most attractions in Niagara Falls, it’s best to get to the Whirlpool Aero Car first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds and long wait times.
- Bundle up: If you’re visiting in early spring or fall, be sure to wear layers and dress for the cold. You feel the wind a lot more on the cable car.
Want more insider tips? Check out my post about the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) Boat Tour
