Is the Skylon Tower in Niagara Falls Worth It? My Honest Review (2025)
If you’re planning a trip to Niagara Falls and wondering whether the Skylon Tower is worth a stop, you’re not alone. I wasn’t sure it would live up to the hype either but after visiting during the winter season, I’m here to give you an honest Skylon Tower review. Spoiler: it’s absolutely worth it!
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As a local, I’d always been told the Skylon was a tourist trap, but on my last visit I decided to go up. And wow! I can’t believe I’ve been missing out on this experience for so long.
With sweeping, breathtaking views from both the indoor and outdoor observation decks, and the option to enjoy a meal at the rotating restaurant, the Skylon Tower offers one of the best perspectives of Niagara Falls from the Canadian side.
I’m already planning to return at sunset this summer and I will be recommending it to any friends or relatives visiting Niagara for the first time.
☞ Ready to book? Buy your Tickets HERE and avoid the lines.
What Makes the Skylon Tower Special?
One of the best reasons to visit the Skylon Tower is the jaw-dropping, 360-degree view you get over Niagara Falls and beyond. From the top you’ll have a birds-eye view of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the smaller but beautiful Bridal Veil Falls.
The Skylon Tower remains one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Canadian side of the Falls. I will be honest, however, the tower is dated (it was built back in 1964) and it is essentially an observation deck with the option to eat in the revolving restaurant.
The main appeal is the view from top. A quick 52-second elevator ride that takes you 775 feet to the top. From here you will be able to see across the Niagara Region and, on a clear day, even spot the Toronto skyline.
Another thing that makes visiting the Skylon Tower so easy is its location. You’ll find it right in the heart of Clifton Hill, within walking distance of many Niagara Falls attractions – no extra driving or bus rides needed. Plus, the parking lot here is surprisingly affordable compared to other spots nearby.
Whether you’re a fan of breathtaking landscapes or just love photography, the Skylon Tower is absolutely worth visiting. And since you can spend as much (or as little) time as you want at the top, it’s an easy stop to fit into any itinerary.
☞ Still deciding which side of Niagara Falls to visit? Here’s my full guide comparing the American and Canadian sides — find out which one’s right for you!
What to Expect at the Skylon Tower Observation Deck
One of the highlights of visiting the Skylon Tower is the ride up itself. You’ll ascend 775 feet in a glass-enclosed elevator, and the views as you rise over Niagara Falls and the city are pretty awesome.
At the top, you’ll find both indoor and outdoor observation decks, which makes the experience great year-round. I spent the whole time outside with my camera in hand and taking in the completely unobstructed views, even though it was absolutely freezing in the middle of winter! Meanwhile, my husband was perfectly content staying warm inside while still soaking in the epic views.
You can walk all the way around the decks for 360-degree views of the Falls, Clifton Hill, and even the Toronto skyline. The outdoor deck has safety screening, but it’s still open enough that photographers like me have no trouble capturing stunning shots. (It honestly took a lot of convincing to pull me away!)
Besides the views, there’s a small gift shop and washrooms at the observation level – but don’t expect major amenities. The views are the true star here.
Compared to the CN Tower in Toronto, the Skylon Tower isn’t quite as high and that’s actually a good thing. You get a much closer, more personal look at the waterfalls without feeling too far removed.
☞ Bringing the family? Discover the best things to do in Niagara Falls with kids for fun adventures everyone will love!
Ticket Options: Which Skylon Tower Ticket Should You Buy?
When I visited the Skylon Tower in winter, it was easy to walk up and buy a ticket with no wait. But during the summer in peak season, it’s a different story. Lines can get long, and buying in advance is a smart move.
Here are your ticket options:
- One-Time Observation Deck Pass: Basic access to the indoor and outdoor observation decks. This is all you truly need to get to the top and see the incredible views!
- Day/Night Pass: This option gives you two rides – once during the day and once at night. The ticket is valid from redemption until closing the next day.
- Combo Packages (with 3D/4D Theatre): While you can bundle your Skylon Tower ticket with a theatre experience, personally, I don’t think it’s worth the extra cost. The 3D/4D shows don’t add much to the overall tower experience.
If I visit again, I would definitely choose the one-time pass again, but I’d time my trip for sunset. That way, you get the best of both day and night views in one visit.
☞ Ready to buy your tickets? Buy your Observation Deck Admission Ticket now to avoid long lines and waits.
Dining at the Skylon Tower: Is the Revolving Restaurant Worth It?
As part of your visit to the tower, you might be tempted to treat yourself to a meal at the Skylon Tower’s Revolving Dining Room. Based on reviews, it’s worth the splurge if you’re celebrating or want a memorable experience.
Although I haven’t personally dined here yet, many guests rave about the experience, including my mother-in-law. The restaurant rotates a full 360 degrees every hour, offering non-stop panoramic views of both the U.S. and Canadian sides of the Falls.
Is it pricey? Absolutely. Meals have a minimum charge of $49 CAD per guest (plus a 3% Attractions and Promotions Fee). But that price also includes free access to the observation decks, which normally costs around $20 alone.
The food is generally reviewed as good – perhaps not world-class – but the setting is what truly makes it special. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime dinner with unbeatable views, the Revolving Restaurant is a memorable choice.
Tip: Reservations are a must for the revolving restaurant. Check availability HERE.
What About the Buffet Restaurant at the Skylon Tower?
The Summit Suite Buffet offers a more casual, buffet-style dining option at the Skylon Tower but it is only open seasonally (usually May – October).
However, many reviews report that the buffet is underwhelming. The food quality is inconsistent and seating near windows isn’t guaranteed. Plus, the buffet floor does not rotate like the main dining room.
Personally, I recommend skipping the buffet and focusing on the observation decks instead. If you want food with a view, it’s definitely worth splurging a little extra for the Revolving Dining Room.
Tips for Visiting the Skylon Tower
To make the most of your Skylon Tower experience, here are a few handy tips based on my visit (and a little local know-how!):
- Time Your Visit Around Sunset: If you can, plan to arrive about 30 minutes before sunset. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy the daytime views and stay to watch Niagara Falls light up at night – all in one trip!
- Dress for the Weather: The outdoor observation deck can get very windy and chilly, especially in the winter months. Even in the summer, it’s smart to bring a light jacket or sweater just in case.
- No Food or Drinks at the Top: There aren’t any food or drink vendors on the observation deck level itself. If you need a caffeine fix or a quick snack, there’s a Starbucks located in the Skylon Tower lobby before you head up.
- Arrive Early to Beat the Crowds: During busy seasons, elevator lines and the decks themselves can get crowded. Arriving earlier in the day or later in the evening can mean fewer people, shorter wait for the elevator, and more room to enjoy the views at the top.
- Parking is Surprisingly Affordable: Skylon Tower has one of the more reasonably priced parking lots near Niagara Falls. You can park here for your tower visit and easily walk or hop on the WEGO Bus to explore other Niagara attractions. We actually parked at Skylon early in the day and used the WEGO Bus to explore Clifton Hill. It saved us so much parking stress!
☞ First time visiting Niagara? Don’t miss my top tips for visiting Niagara Falls – from what to pack to the best time to go!
Skylon Tower: Pros and Cons
Like any attraction, the Skylon Tower has its highlights and a few drawbacks. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide if it’s right for your trip:
Pros
- Spectacular Views: See Niagara Falls, Clifton Hill, and even the Toronto skyline on clear days.
- Revolving Restaurant: Enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience with ever-changing views.
- Glass-Enclosed Elevators: The ride up alone is a memorable part of the visit.
- Indoor/Outdoor Observation Decks: Great for any weather conditions.
- Convenient Location: Easily walkable from major Niagara Falls attractions, with affordable parking.
Bonus Local Tip: If you are visiting in the summer, there is a hidden path with stairs at the back of the parking lot that will take you directly down to the Falls! It’s an excellent and picturesque shortcut.
Cons
- Cost: Tickets and dining can add up, especially for families or large groups.
- Crowds During Peak Season: Expect longer wait times in the summer months.
- Some Outdated Facilities: Certain areas, like the gift shop and lobby, could use modern updates.
- Buffet Restaurant Quality: The Summit Suite Buffet often receives mixed to negative reviews.
- Food Prices: Dining options are pricey, even considering the included observation deck access.
Consideration: If you’re staying at one of Niagara’s Fallsview hotels with a direct view of the Falls, a trip up the Skylon Tower might feel a little less unique – but it’s still an incredible way to see the entire region from above.
☞ Looking for advice for the best hotels in Niagara? Read my complete overview of my top hotel recommendations.
Final Verdict: Is the Skylon Tower Worth Visiting?
If you’re wondering whether the Skylon Tower deserves a spot on your Niagara Falls itinerary, my answer is a big yes.
Where else can you enjoy a memorable dinner, beautiful views, and dine in a restaurant that rotates 360 degrees around one of the world’s most iconic landscapes? The combination of the food and the incredible panoramas made it worth every penny for us.
If you’d rather skip the splurge on dining, no worries – the observation decks alone offer a cool experience that’s well worth the visit.
For anyone not staying overnight in a Fallsview room, I would definitely recommend including it on your next visit to the Falls.
☞ Ready to see Niagara Falls from above? Check Skylon Tower ticket options here!
