The parking lot at the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center will be closed this summer due to construction of new Maid of the Mist boats. The Discovery Center is a popular tourist attraction and the parking lot provides perfect trailhead parking for exploring the Gorge. Opting on the side of safety, closures have resulted while new boat modules are lowered into the Gorge at the Maid of the Mist dock. The New York State Parks Niagara Region confirms that the construction will result in closures throughout the summer of 2019.
First, the parking lot at the Gorge Discovery Center, formerly the Schoellkopf Geological Museum, is closed to all unauthorized vehicles. Don’t plan on parking here unless you are part of the construction crew. Second, the short trail extending to the south along the Maid of the Mist dry dock is closed. Third, restrictions on the dock may mean you need to find another place to fish. Several groups of fishermen have been turned away from throwing a line in by the dock. As always, if there is a barrier in place. don’t climb over it.
Currently, the Gorge Discovery Center has normal hours for visitation. The elevator to the bottom of the Gorge is still open throughout the day and offers an excellent view of the new boat construction. I was able to access the American Falls Trail from the bottom of the elevator at the Maid of the Mist Dock in early June. Access to the Robert Moses Recreation Trail, Rim Trail and Great Gorge Railway Trail is available from the parking lot. Check out the Niagara Gorge Hiking Guide for great hiking options in Niagara Falls.
A Greener Maid of the Mist
The new Maid of the Mist boats are all electric and produce zero emissions that will be propelled by powerful lithium batteries. Having limited engine noise and no harmful emissions will certainly be a lower impact way to enjoy this iconic tour. When the newer boats are placed into service, the existing boats that have been in service since the nineties will retire. Though this may be an inconvenience this summer, it is encouraging to see this green technology in Niagara Falls.
Alternative Parking Options
While the construction is ongoing, you have a few options for parking. The closest option is to park at the Aquarium parking lot of which there is a fee. There is also free limited roadside parking along Whirlpool Street but make sure you are north of the restricted area. The pedestrian bridge will take explorers over the Robert Moses and to the trailhead. Another option is to park at Whirlpool State Park and utilize the free Discover Niagara shuttle. The shuttle will drop you off at your chosen destination.
