10 Tips for Visiting Niagara Falls in Winter

Niagara Falls in the winter offers an experience that is significantly different from what you might experience during the summer months. Although the water does not freeze completely, the surrounding landscape is covered in ice and snow, creating a truly unique scene.

Visiting Niagara Falls in the winter might not seem like the best decision. After all, who hasn't seen the news broadcast of the great northern frosts freezing everything over?

All river activities are suspended due to ice formation on the river. Unfortunately, this includes Niagara River cruises. The Maid of the Mist and the Hornblower operate generally only from early April to early November.

However, have you ever thought about how wonderful it would be to experience this landscape firsthand? And above all, to do it without so many people around you!

Today I propose a guide of things to do if you decide to visit Niagara Falls in winter.

1. Photographing the spectacle caused by frost

As ice covers everything it touches, it is awe-inspiring to visit Niagara Falls in the winter. The reflection of light on the glass makes the beauty sparkle in a unique landscape that allows for a myriad of perspectives to be photographed.

The water loses its strength and changes its state, solidifying at every step. Also, unlike the summer season, there is much less tourism in the area, so you may be able to enjoy these incredible landscapes almost alone, if you get up early. And what if you manage to see the falls completely frozen? It is unlikely, but not impossible, so book a trip to Niagara Falls. You will not regret it.

And here's a tip: Climb the observation tower, open year-round and free in the winter, and you'll have a panoramic view of all three falls.

2. Attend the Festival of Lights

Niagara Falls is a natural spectacle in itself, but in recent years it has also been stunning at night, thanks to a revamped lighting system with LED lights that work as the sun goes down to create a spectacular view not to be missed.

The nature-inspired colors are themed according to the charitable event of the day or time of year. Put on a warm coat and get ready to enjoy the magic of light, colors and a fairytale frozen landscape starting at 9:30 p.m.

The annual OPG Winter Festival of Lights features more than 75 dazzling displays that decorate the Niagara Parkway, Dufferin Islands and streets of the tourist districts. Bundle up and take a car for the 5-mile drive to park and enjoy the atmosphere.

3. Enjoy the Christmas Concert Series

This winter, Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery and Noisemaker are teaming up to bring you indoor concerts featuring some of Canada's finest talent, an intimate live music experience that will wow you in a relaxed atmosphere. It's one concert a month, but don't miss the Christmas special, soundtracked by the band's holiday tunes and Skydiggers classics.

4. See the frozen falls from above in a helicopter

How about I give you an incredible view from above of this natural jewel? The falls are a spectacle in themselves to be admired from any perspective you choose, but doing it from above is beyond your wildest dreams. The frozen landscape in the winter months only enhances their beauty.

Furthermore, in this region famous for its vineyards it is possible to admire the scenery of monumental waterfalls mixed with large blocks of ice and snow.

From Niagara District Airport, you can begin your adventure to see Niagara Falls from above, available every day of the year, weather permitting. A short flight that will allow you to take the best snapshots to take away from this trip.

5. Take refuge in the warmth of the casinos

The attractions of Niagara Falls go far beyond the natural park. For a moment of relaxation and fun, go to one of the casinos on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. In the Niagara Falls shopping area, you will find all the fun of Las Vegas.

I recommend visiting the Fallsview Casino Resort with its incredible view of the Falls. This casino offers world-class entertainment, a spa, and nightlife. Or spend some time at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, where you can gamble, dine, and watch a world-class theater show.

6. Climb the Skylon Tower

After Niagara Falls, the most visited place in the area is the Skylon Tower. An observation center with surprises, where you can admire the frozen landscape not only of the falls but also of the skylines of Buffalo, New York and Toronto, all without getting cold.

And what are these surprises? Well, it's not just an observation deck, but also a children's play area with interactive games, an exhibition of dinosaurs of all species, a 3D/4D cinema where you can experience the power of the waterfalls with special effects and a wide selection of international boutiques. Are you missing out?

The Skylon Tower remains open year-round and remains one of the best options for enjoying views of Niagara Falls from above.

At Cave of the Winds, the famous Hurricane Deck is not accessible because, every year, the wooden path is removed around November to protect it from the winter ice. You can still visit the Cave of the Winds Pavilion and the interactive exhibit inside.

The Observation Tower platform remains open all year round but may be subject to closures due to particularly adverse weather conditions.

As for the attraction Journey Behind The Falls, it is generally open with some limitations. In the winter, in fact, the lower observation deck is closed to the public due to the presence of ice.

The viewpoints on Luna Island and Goat Island remain generally accessible throughout the winter months, just be aware of ice that can form on the trail given its proximity to the falls.

7. Enjoy the Canadian Christmas atmosphere

If you want to enjoy the best Christmas atmosphere, come and visit the beautiful village of Niagara on the Lake. Here you will find elegantly decorated shops with all the Christmas spirit in a very fresh atmosphere. During the first weekend of December you can walk by candlelight on Friday.

You can also take a tour of six seasonal homes organized by the Rotary Club, beautifully decorated and furnished, where you can enjoy a glass of wine and a local dessert. Everything is decorated to create a Christmas story for the locals and for the travelers, who will have a warm and welcoming experience with all the charm of the people, the streets and the decorations taken care of in the smallest details.

8. Shop for the best winter clothing at outlets

If you are missing clothes, have forgotten them or just want to bring home a souvenir, visit Outlet Collection. It is located in Niagara on the Lake and presents a new concept of outlet shopping. Here you can find over 100 irresistible brands such as The North Face, Nike Factory Store, Tommy Hilfiger and many more.

It is the largest outdoor mall in Canada, with a play area for little ones, a dedicated food court called The Eatery, and an event area with a farmers market and social gathering place.

On the American side, closer to the falls, is Fashion Outlets Niagara Falls . This is an indoor and outdoor mall with over 200 designer stores where you can buy clothing, as well as other items such as beauty, electronics, health and more. Take advantage of the hottest discounts on your favorite brands to be the ice king or queen.

9. Taste the best ice wine of the season

You shouldn't leave Niagara without sampling one of the region's culinary delights, ice wine. The region surrounding the falls has been producing wine for decades. Niagara's vineyards have become a magnet for travelers who come for wine tasting and to sample the region's finest cuisine.

Due to the harsh winter climate, this wine is made from semi-frozen grapes, hand-picked and pressed immediately to produce a yellowish, almost golden grape juice that is sweet and ideal for desserts. It also pairs well with cheeses and pates and can be a great accompaniment to spicy cuisines such as Thai or Indian.

The famous Niagara Icewine Festival is held in Niagara on the Lake in January. This festival takes place once a year for three weeks and is dedicated to Ontario ice wine. During these days, the entire Niagara region is transformed into one big wine festival. Due to the large influx of wine lovers, I recommend planning your vacation in advance to take advantage of these events.

If wine makes you hungry, I leave you this post on where to eat in Niagara Falls. However, in winter, check the opening hours in case you find some restaurants closed.

10. Ice skating outdoors

During the Festival of Lights there is room for fun and ice skating outdoors at the TD RINK at Brink. Do not hesitate and practice your favorite sport in a dreamlike setting with waterfalls in the background and background music. Be part of the visitors from all over the world who have been able to experience this open-air experience on the edge of the abyss.

Afterwards, stay to enjoy the surroundings with the illumination of Niagara Falls, one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the world. What more could you ask for?

Any time of year is perfect to visit this natural monument. If you choose to travel during the low season months, from December to February, prices will be more affordable than at any other time of year. However, keep in mind that during the Christmas holidays prices increase even more due to celebrations and events, both in the area of the waterfalls and in the surrounding villages and cities. January and February are the cheapest months to enjoy this region.

Niagara Falls Winter Temperatures

We don't know if winter is the best time to visit Niagara Falls, but as you can see it is a season where you will see things that you will not see at any other time. However, temperatures in this area can reach -8ºC, so if you travel at this time of year I recommend you bring special clothing for sub-zero weather.

Here in detail are the temperatures to expect in winter, obviously the values are purely indicative and are reported only to have a general idea and arrive prepared.

November: this is the month when the first snowfalls can occur. Average temperatures during the day are around 5°C while at night they drop to -1°C

December: daytime averages drop to 2°C and nighttime averages to -5°C

January: is the coldest month with average temperatures of -1°C and night temperatures of -9°C. This is the period when it is very likely to see the frozen river.

February: daytime temperatures remain around 0°C while at night they remain around -8°C. There continues to be heavy snowfall

March: during the day temperatures rise to around 4°C but at night they always remain around -3°C.

At this time of year, you can witness a unique spectacle, with giant pieces of ice sliding down the waters of the falls, creating an unprecedented spectacle for the senses. The fog on the observation points or the view of Niagara Falls completely frozen is one of the attractions of winter viewing that only a few lucky people have the pleasure of experiencing at least once in their lives. Do not forget to bring with you the appropriate clothing for this time of year. Do you dare to experience it too?