East Coast Bus Tour Day 3 – Niagara Falls, Maid of the Mist & What I Wish I Knew Before Booking (TakeTours / Mayi Tours Review)

If you’re planning to visit Niagara Falls on a budget or without driving, a bus tour like TakeTours / Mayi Tours can be a fantastic option — but there are a few things you should know ahead of time.

After a lovely day trekking the Watkins Glen State Park, Day 3 of my 6-day East Coast bus tour was both breathtaking and eye-opening. From stunning parks and powerful waterfalls to a small travel mistake that cost me a major attraction, here’s a real, unfiltered account of my experience.

First Stop: Whirlpool State Park

Our morning began as we checked out of our hotel in Cheektowaga (Buffalo) and boarded the tour bus.
The first stop was Whirlpool State Park, a beautiful and peaceful location with sweeping views of the Niagara River and its swirling whirlpool formations.

This lesser-known spot was a refreshing way to start the day — quiet, scenic, and perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Second Stop: Robert Moses Niagara Power Project

Next, we visited the Robert Moses Niagara Power Project, an unexpected highlight.
The center features:

Hands-on exhibits
A fun 4D movie experience
Interactive displays explaining how hydroelectric power works

It’s a great place for kids and adults alike. But here’s where the tour started to feel oddly paced.
I couldn’t help but think that this stop could have been scheduled the previous evening, freeing up more time at Niagara Falls today — especially since one of the biggest attractions, Cave of the Winds, had already been done the night before (without clear communication from the tour company).

Niagara Falls – Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

We finally arrived at Niagara Falls State Park and queued up for the legendary Maid of the Mist boat tour.

U.S. boats use blue ponchos
Canadian boats use red ponchos

It was thrilling to be that close to the thundering falls — an unforgettable moment, surrounded by mist, with raincoats flying and cameras clicking. I juggled my poncho, backpack, and phone (in a waterproof cover) to get some great footage.

This experience alone makes the entire tour worth it!

Travel Mistake: Missing the Cave of the Winds

After the boat ride, we had a 1.5-hour window of free time. I rushed to see if I could finally do Cave of the Winds, which I had missed the night before.

Unfortunately, the next tour was starting too late — I missed it again.

Big tip:
TakeTours split the two most popular Niagara Falls attractions — Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds — into two separate optional tours, and they don’t make this clear when booking. Many travelers, like me, assumed they’d be done together, which isn’t the case.

Niagara Scenic Trolley: A Great Alternative

With Cave of the Winds out of reach, I did the next best thing — hopped onto the Niagara Scenic Trolley for just $3.
The ride:

Takes you through Niagara Falls State Park
Offers lovely views and stops
Even has free WiFi!

It was a peaceful way to unwind and see the natural beauty beyond the main falls.

Note:
Entry into Niagara Falls State Park is free. You only need tickets for specific attractions like Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and the trolley.

Final Stop: Arriving in Boston

We left Niagara Falls and drove through the afternoon and evening to reach Boston, where we checked into the Hilton Garden Inn in Tewksbury.

The hotel was clean, modern, and had everything we needed.

I took a short evening stroll and came across a Cracker Barrel — a brand I’d only ever seen in American magazines. I picked up some groceries from a nearby gas station store and turned in for the night, excited for Cambridge and Boston sightseeing the next day.

TakeTours / Mayi Tours Travel Tip Recap:

Confirm your tour inclusions upfront — especially for popular attractions like Cave of the Winds.
Whirlpool Park and the Scenic Trolley are hidden gems — don’t skip them!
Raincoats and waterproof covers are a must for Maid of the Mist.
Save time where possible — some tour stops could be better optimized.

Final Thoughts:

Day 3 of the East Coast Bus Tour gave me a new appreciation for Niagara Falls, reminded me of the joy of independent exploration, and taught me to ask specific questions when booking guided tours.

Despite the hiccups, the memories — and mist — were totally worth it.