Ready to launch: Maid of the Mist sets sail on 2026 season

Maid of the Mist press release & art

America 250 will be a prominent feature of Maid of the Mist’s 141^st season, which launches at 9 a.m. Friday, April 24. As the U.S. celebrates its semiquincentennial, specially designed logos and decals will be featured on the exterior of the all-electric e-boats James V. Glynn and Nikola Tesla, throughout the Maid of the Mist facility in Niagara Falls State Park, on the company website, and on social media platforms.

“As an American icon, this is a unique opportunity to honor America,” Maid of the Mist President Christopher M. Glynn said. “Maid of the Mist first launched in 1846 and has played an important role in the history of the U.S. tourism industry. It is a privilege to be able to be part of the 250th anniversary celebration.”

Maid of the Mist is joining other iconic American brands who are saluting America 250, including Coca Cola (mini cans for each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico), American Airlines (two themed airliners), and CN (two commemorative locomotives).

A new addition to the Maid of the Mist website, “Wait Times Trends & Insights,” provides guests with a helpful look at how wait times tend to change throughout each day of the season.

“Ahead of their visit, guests can click on any date to get a good idea of what their wait time may be,” Glynn said. “This will help them better plan their Maid of the Mist experience.”

The 2026 season will be the first since 1950 without the presence of Maid of the Mist Chairman James V. Glynn who passed away on Dec. 28, 2025, at the age of 91. Just 17 days later, Mary G. Glynn, his devoted wife of 67 years, passed. Mr. Glynn joined Maid of the Mist in 1950 as a ticket-taker. He fulfilled his dream when he purchased the company in 1971, growing it into a major tourist destination for travelers from around the world.

In 2020, one of the Maid of the Mist’s two all-electric vessels was christened in his name. James V. Glynn ferries hundreds of thousands of guests each season for an unforgettable voyage to the base of Niagara Falls.

“Our parents were a major part of the fabric, culture and history of Maid of the Mist,” Christopher Glynn said. “We will honor them this season by the example they set for our family and our associates: To be good stewards of the Maid of the Mist brand and to be gracious hosts to our guests.”

Maid of the Mist is one of the longest continuously running tourist attractions in North America. Over the years, millions of visitors to Niagara Falls, U.S.A. board the two unique e-boats for an unforgettable, bucket-list experience that brings them face-to-face with the awe of the Falls. 2026 marks the 141st consecutive season of operations.

Adult tickets are $30.25, tickets for children (6-12 years) are $19.75, while children ages 5 and under are free with a paid adult. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online at https://www.maidofthemist.com/schedule-pricing/.

This 2026 season runs through Sunday, Nov. 8.

Maid of the Mist fast facts

√ Opening day last year was May 1.

Since 1948:

√ The average date for opening day is May 7

√ The earliest opening day was April 1, 2017

√ The latest opening day was June 26, 2020 (COVID year)