Whirlpool Aero Car
Add to ItineraryHop on the historic Whirlpool Aero Car for an unforgettable ride over the vibrant, teal-coloured waters of the Niagara River. Witness spectacular views of the swirling Niagara Whirlpool and the river’s Class 6 rapids as you soar 3,500 feet across the Niagara Gorge.
Although it travels between two points on the Canadian shore, this antique cable car will actually take you across the international border between Canada and the United States a total of four times due to the way the river elbows. No passport required!
- Seasonal Apr - Nov
- Approximate Duration 45 min. (varies)
- Free Parking
- Self-guided Experience
Niagara Whirlpool
The immense volume of water rushing over the Horseshoe Falls crushes into the narrow Niagara Gorge, creating the whirlpool rapids. The Niagara Whirlpool is formed at the end of the rapids where the gorge abruptly turns counterclockwise. The river’s abrupt change of direction creates one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural phenomena.
A Historic Ride
The Niagara Whirlpool and its swirling waters had been a popular tourist attraction dating back to the late 1800s. During this time, local developer Samuel Colt purchased seven acres of land for $250 and constructed an inclined railway to take visitors from the top of the Niagara Gorge to the bank of the whirlpool rapids below.
In 1913, Niagara Parks was approached by a group of Spanish businessmen interested in building a new cable car that would take visitors across the Niagara Whirlpool. It would provide an entirely new perspective of the gorge with unobstructed views of the natural phenomenon below.
Design and Construction
Designed by famed Spanish engineer, Leonardo Torres Quevedo, the Whirlpool Aero Car has been soaring the Niagara Gorge since 1916.
Construction on the aero car began in 1915 and progressed rapidly. Significant excavation was needed on both sides of the gorge in order to house the machinery chambers, a design choice that was made to avoid interfering with views of the river from the surrounding area. The carriage itself was built overseas and shipped to the site where it was installed onto a cable spanning over 500 meters across the swirling waters of the river below.
Recent Refurbishments
In the winter of 2023, the Whirlpool Aero Car was removed from its tracks and sent to Saint-Jérôme, Québec, to undergo refurbishments. The lower section of the Aero Car was restored with brand-new mechanical parts, non-slip floor, roof and fresh paint. The iconic yellow arch, designed by renowned Spanish engineer Leonardo Torres-Quevedo was replaced with an identical arch that will extend the life of this historic attraction.
Throughout the entire refurbishment process, meticulous care was taken to ensure the integrity of the stunning original design was preserved.
Today, over 100 years after its first ride, over 100,000 individuals ride the Whirlpool Aero Car annually, and these recent refurbishments will allow for future generations to continue to enjoy this world-renowned attraction.
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Hours
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The last car departs 20 minutes before closing time. To make the most of your visit, please arrive at least 30 minutes before closing.
Select new datesAdmission
ADULT (13+ YEARS)
$19
CHILD (3-12 YEARS)
$12.50
INFANT (2 & UNDER)
Free
We’re here to help
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How much are tickets for Whirlpool Aero Car?
Adult (13 years +) and Child (3 – 12 years) rates are available, for pricing please visit our online store. Children aged two and under are free at all Niagara Parks attractions.
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How do I reserve tickets for Whirlpool Aero Car?
When purchasing tickets online, you’re able to select a timed ticket for Whirlpool Aero Car. Timed ticketing allows you to book a one hour time frame in which you’re able to join the queue for Whirlpool Aero Car. Not ready to pick a time? We also offer Anytime Tickets for purchase online to see the whirlpools.
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Can I bring a stroller into Whirlpool Aero Car?
No, strollers are not permitted on the Whirlpool Aero Car.
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When is Whirlpool Aero Car open?
Whirlpool Aero Car is open daily for general admission. Please see hours of operation.
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Do I have to buy tickets online, can I buy tickets for Whirlpool Aero Car in person?
Whirlpool Aero Car tickets can be purchased in-person at the attraction or any available Niagara Parks Welcome Centre.
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Where do I park for Whirlpool Aero Car?
Whirlpool Aero Car has parking available on site. For other available parking lots please see our Parking Locations at Niagara Parks.
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Where do I park for Whirlpool Aero Car?
Whirlpool Aero Car has parking available on site. For other available parking lots please see our Parking Locations at Niagara Parks.