More than 14 million people visit Niagara Falls, Ontario every year. The vast majority come in summertime. But there’s a lot of joy and wonder to be found visiting Niagara Falls in winter!
Here’s a secret about Niagara Falls in winter: it’s truly magical. The world-famous falls sparkle with ice and frost and that’s reason enough to visit. You’ll also find Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival. World class ice wine. Lower hotel rates And if you don’t like crowds this is the season for you.
Niagara Falls in winter is one of my favourite day trips from Toronto. Because I’m someone who loves to get outside in the cold months, but I don’t ski or snowboard. So I try to visit Niagara Falls at least once each winter to enjoy the beauty of extreme nature at its coolest. If you are visiting Toronto between December and March and looking for a nice getaway, put this on your list.
To be clear, this isn’t Whistler or Quebec City – two Canadian destinations built around winter activities. That’s why it’s a bit of secret!
I’m always discovering something new to do in Niagara Falls in winter and my recommendations include both outdoor and indoor activities. If you’re new to the blog, I write about solo travel and these tips are good whether you’re alone, with friends, or a romantic partner. Read on learn why the answer to “if going to Niagara Falls in the winter worth it?” is an enthusiastic “yes!”
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See the Illuminated Niagara Falls at Night
Explore Winter Festival of Lights
Indulge in the Hot Chocolate Trail
Go for a hike in the Niagara Gorge
Explore the Power Plant Tunnel
Warm up at the Butterfly Conservatory
How cold is Niagara Falls in winter anyway?
By Canadian winter standards, the weather in Niagara Falls is considered mild. The coldest month is generally February, with a high of -1, and a low that feels like -14.January is about the same, with December and March reaching just above zero on most days.
If you intend to walk around Niagara Falls at this time of year, come prepared with warm clothes including hat and gloves and lined, waterproof boots. You’ll have a better time if you are bundled up.
What are the Falls like in Winter?
The main attraction, a true wonder of the world, free and open 24/7 year-round. Some awesome facts:
- This natural marvel dates way back to the end of the Ice Age, more than 12,000 years ago.
- What we call Niagara Falls refers to three different waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls (the ones on the Canadian Side), American Falls, and Bridal Falls.
- Horseshoe Falls drops an average of 57m (188 ft.) into the Lower Niagara River.
- More than three million litres of fresh water go over the Falls every second during peak daytime hours—more falling water than any other waterfall in North America.
- One of the earliest Indigenous inhabitants called themselves the “Onguiaahra.” It is one of the names from which the name “Niagara River” originated. Others believe the word Niagara is taken from another Indigenous word meaning, “Thundering Waters.” Another theory of the name’s origin suggests Niagara is derived from the name given to a local group of Indigenous peoples, called the Niagagarega people.
The water going over Niagara Falls in winter doesn’t actually freeze. (OK it did once, back in 1848.) But everything else around it turns icy white. It’s postcard perfect. Wait, that makes me sound ancient. It’s Instagram perfect.
How can you see the falls?
It’s hard to miss them!
You can see all three waterfalls simply driving past on the Niagara River Parkway. You’ll stay warmer but you won’t feel the magic. Sorry to say there’s nowhere safe to stop and jump out for quick photos. So most visitors will park nearby and walk right to the edge.
A pedestrian path right alongside the cliff stretches 5km from the foot of Clifton Hill to the main Welcome Centre, where you can warm up. Watch your step as it does get slippery around here. If it’s sunny look out for rainbows, which are very common as the sunlight hits all that mist.
Niagara Falls at Night
So pretty! Niagara Falls lights up at night in a variety of colours. It’s worth taking an extra trip back to see them illuminated – generally from dusk to about 1am. There is also a special “Inspired by Nature” light show (it’s only 5 minutes) that runs throughout the night on the half-hour.
Fireworks over Niagara Falls in Winter
This is a real treat. Fireworks don’t happen every night in Niagara Falls in Winter so check the schedule. Friday and Saturday nights are your best bet in November and December. They also have a New Year’s Eve midnight show.
Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights
It’s Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival and it brings millions of lights and spectacular displays to the city from mid-November to early January. This has been running for more than 40 years (!) but I just visited in 2025 and here’s what I learned.
Winter Festival of Lights is not in one specific location. There are sculptures and installations in different hot spots around the city. Most of them are near the falls along the parkway—what you’ve likely seen in social media post or news coverage.
This is an 8km stretch. So do you walk it? Maybe! But it might be like -15 degrees out. Or maybe you have an injury or mobility issue? (Like me.) So instead you drive alongside it. But then you can’t interact with things like the cute light-up see saw. Or take your fun selfies with a pretty polar bear. I found this frustrating. Next time, I would plan just to walk in a small area so I could see some things up close rather than all the things from inside the car.
The most popular part seemed to be around Dufferin Islands-expect to crawl along very slowly in a line of cars to pass by these.
If you are interested in seeing the Poinsettia show at the Floral Showcase, I would go after dark because they have some cool sculptures that are lit up. We went during the afternoon to kill time before the lights came on and felt like we missed out. There’s a giant dragon!
We thehn drove up to Lundy’s Lane because the official map showed that there was a lot up there too but it turned out to be “just” a lot of candy canes in front of stores. Oh well, not all explorations are a win!
Considering that this is all free I would say it’s a fantastic reason to visit Niagara Falls in winter!
Hot Chocolate Trail
Confession: my fave part of the winter festival of lights was the accompanying Hot Chocolate Trail. Dozens of establishments create special hot chocolate recipes during the festival. There’s a “naughty” list for drinks with booze and a “nice” list for non-alcoholic versions. I am a nice girl and was delighted with my choices!
I visited the incredible bakery Red Ganache for a Candy Apple and Cinnamon hot chocolate that came with French macarons! And at the Hersey’s World superstore enjoyed a Candy Cane version of their classic that was delicious. Second confession: it’s hard to drink more than two hot chocolates in one day, even for me! So I had to stop there but next year I will be up for the challenge again.
Icewine Festival
And a lot of the best of the world’s ice wine is made in the Niagara region so if you’re a fan, or curious, it’s a perfect place to indulge.
Icewine is a type of dessert wine made from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. It’s very sweet. Pretty rare (crop must be picked within a few hours, on a moment’s notice, on the first morning that’s cold enough.). Expensive vs regular wine. A great way to try icewine is the Niagara Icewine Festival.
On weekends in January, you can grab a Discovery Pass that’s good for tastings at different vineyards, pairing ice wine with local cuisine. In 2025, these happen on all three weekends (10-12, 17-19, 24-26). Some of these venues are in historic buildings or have private art galleries that are especially cool to visit. (Note these are not in Niagara Falls city proper; you’ll need a vehicle and thus a designated driver—this is a high-alcohol-content drink!)
Don’t drink? You can still experience the celebration by just walking around Niagara on the Lake those weekends—fire pits, ice carving contests and a cocktail competition on January 25.
A big gala ($$$) called Cool as Ice takes place at the Power Station on January 18.
Skate at Wayne Gretzky’s Rink
I wish Niagara Falls had a great rink by the falls but if you’re a hockey fan I’m guessing it’s even cooler to go skating at Wayne Gretzky’s Estates. The Great One has a vineyard and distillery in Niagara-on-the-Lake and in winter they operate a small outdoor ice rink. It kind of has traditional backyard rink vibes so you can really get a Canadian experience. Then you can warm up at their Whiskey Bar Patio. It’s $5 to skate for adults, free for under 12, and some skate rentals for kids and adults are available on site. Weather dependent so call in advance 1-888-510-5537 or check their website for hours.
Hiking in Niagara in winter
The Niagara Escarpment has been recognized as a world biosphere by U.N.E.S.C.O. And the Niagara River corridor is one of the world’s most biodiverse places, similar to the Galápagos Islands, the Florida Everglades and Yellowstone Park. There are 56 km (35 miles) of parks, a designated nature reserve, trails, historic landmarks and landscaped gardens in this area.
Winter hiking is possible but should be considered at your own risk. Proper footwear is a must. Inform yourself on weather forecast and winter hiking safety before going out.
Niagara Glen is a popular hiking area. Trails are considered moderate to difficult, with steep cliffs and loose rocks that are even more slippery in icy winter.
Queenston Heights Walking Trail is an easier alternative for a walk near the river.
Journey Behind the Falls
Do you want to get even closer to the falls? The famous Maid of the Mist boat doesn’t run in the winter. But Journey Behind the Falls is a very popular attraction open year-round. You pay to take an elevator down 125ft to two outdoor observation decks where you can really feel the rumble! Note that if there’s too much ice on the Lower Observation Deck, they will close it for safety reasons. (Reduce admission in effect when this happens.) $25 for adults, 9am to 5pm.
The Niagara Power Plant Tunnel
My pick for the top thing to do in Niagara Falls at any time of year takes you deep down to an outdoor viewing area to marvel at the falls from below. But wait, there’s more!
Admission includes access to the Power Station, a restored hydroelectric power station, first constructed over a century ago. History buffs and engineering nerds will be in their element here! Art fans like myself should visit at night to take in the truly wonderful sound-and-light show Currents, which traces the history of water in Niagara from Indigenous origins through the industrial age to today.
Take a glass-walled elevator down 80 feet beneath the falls to the underground tunnel. This was an exit point for water used in generating hydropower for over a century. Today it’s a path to one of the best views of Niagara Falls – an outdoor viewing platform at the river’s edge, with the falls crashing down from above. At night, the tunnel is illuminated, and of course you can see the falls all lit up too! Come after 5pm if you want that experience.
Admission is $32 and absolutely worth it!
Accessibility note: The tunnel is 2,200 long. There are a few benches along the way, but you can also request a wheelchair upon entrance that will be helpful if that’s too long of a walk. Washrooms only avail on the surface, not underground.
Zipline over the Falls?
Yes, this is a year-round adventure! Zipline to the Falls soars high above the gorge from Grand View Marketplace toward the breathtaking Niagara Falls. If you’re age 7 or older, under 275 lbs, and not afraid of heights, you can do this morning, afternoon, or night, rain or shine.
Things To Do Indoors in Niagara Falls in Winter
For most people, including my snow-loving-self, you’ll want to plan some inside activities to warm up. So here’s my list of great indoor spaces to enjoy Niagara Falls in the winter.
Dining with views of Niagara Falls
One of the best views of the falls is from the Skylon Tower. There’s a revolving restaurant at the top which is popular – not for the food necessarily, but for the panoramic experience. On a clear day you can even see Toronto.
Table Rock House Restaurant is right next to the falls and also has lovely views from its huge windows. A fine dining menu highlights local ingredients. Prix fixed or ala carte.
Spectacular views of Niagara Falls in Winter
Riding the Skywheel. It’s Canada’s largest observation wheel, at 175 feet high, and operates year-round from its perch on Clifton Hill. The ride lasts about 10 minutes and costs $15.
A Helicopter Ride! Yes, you can book this experience year-round and it’s really a memory of a lifetime. Niagara Helicopters will take you up for a 12 minute ride for $185 CDN. It runs seven days a week but is weather dependent so no need to reserve in advance. Starts at 9am and sometimes offers night rides.
Warm up at the Butterfly Conservatory
Ah, the tropics! You’ll warm up super quick here, making it one of my favourite things to do in Niagara Falls in winter. One of the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories in North America is also a tropical garden oasis. More than 2,000 beautiful butterflies flitter freely. If you’re lucky they may land on your hand. $19
Play some games on Clifton Hill
Bowling! Wizard themed mini-golf! Laser Tag! These things are marketed towards kids and families but me and my adult friends love them, too.
Try your luck at a casino
Canada’s largest casino is Fallsview Niagara. There’s also the OG Casino Niagara. I can’t guarantee you’ll win some money. But I’ve found these spaces to be a fun place to spend a few hours especially late at night.
Rock out at a concert
Fallsview casino has an excellent live music venue, booking in legends of rock and R&B but also new bands, comedians, and more. The calendar of events is here. Great sound and sightlines I sometimes travel to Niagara Falls from Toronto just to see a show there.
Bliss out at a Spa
If you’re looking for a romantic hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake that also has a Nordic Spa, I recommend Pillar and Post hotel which has pretty outdoor hot spring pools. Non-guests can sometimes access the facility with a Day Pass for $50 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or $75 Friday-Sunday. These cannot be booked in advance and depend on capacity on the day. Call 905-468-2123×407399 to enquire before heading out.
In central Niagara Falls, there’s Burning Springs, a small Nordic Spa at the Marriott Fallsview. Three outdoor thermal pools (hot, warm, cold) and a Finnish sauna are located outside in a small private space, with a Himalayan Salt Sauna, hot tub and relaxation area inside. Hotel guests can access the Oasis spa area for $60, or as an add-on to any spa treatment for $35. Passes are for three-hours and can be booked for morning, afternoon, or evening slots. Like most things in Niagara Falls, you’re paying more because of the location.
Christienne Fallsview Spa in the Sheraton Hotel doesn’t have a Nordic Spa but it does have a “Hydrotherapy Infinity tub” with a spectacular view of both the American and Horseshoe Falls. This retreat is designed specifically with couples in mind and costs $90 for 20 minutes.
Read more Best Nordic Spas in Ontario for a winter vacation
What’s Closed in Niagara Falls in winter?
Don’t expect to ride the Maid of the Mist, take a Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour or Whirlpool Aero Car until the spring.
Shuttle buses to Niagara-on-the-Lake (which would be handy for the Icewine festival for sure) do not run from October to April.
How to get around Niagara Falls
A note about parking: Niagara Parks operates all the lots close to the Falls. It costs $30 per day. (You cannot park overnight.) Smaller lots may be cheaper – but they are not close. Lot details here.
WEGO is a public transportation designed for tourists that operates a few bus routes circling the main attractions and hotels. It’s like a hop-on-hop-off system where you pay one price for unlimited rides and is super convenient. If you come to Niagara Falls via Go Transit from Toronto, you can purchase a ticket with WeGo included. But even if you drive it makes sense to park and ride. I’m thrilled that you can now buy your pass online and just scan on the bus. I’m not thrilled that in the winter months, WEGO buses only run every 30 minutes. That’s a long time to wait in the freezing cold for a bus, and wasted time if you’re just visiting for a day. WEGO also does not run on December 25th.
Local Taxis wait at the Go Transit / Via Trail train and bus station and major hotels. And Uber is widely available.
Where to Stay in Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls has rooms for all budgets. In the summer, even budget hotels aren’t cheap. But in the winter (outside of Christmas and NYE) you can find great deals on hotels. Most of the major chains offer rooms with views of the falls. What you won’t find yet is a 5-star hotel. And if you prefer more intimate boutique hotels, look at Niagara-on-the-Lake instead. Watch out for “Resort Fees.” Here are some recommendations I’ve personally stayed at that are all close to the falls.
Basic, clean, convenient. Some rooms have large balconies with views of the river (and part of the falls if you crane your neck). There’s a small heated indoor pool. We liked it to save money and it was walking distance to the falls without going back up a hill at the end of the day.
Very convenient for going to concerts at Fallsview Casino across the street and very close to Skylon Tower. Recently renovated, free parking, small indoor and outdoor swimming pools, sauna and whirlpool. A great budget option.
Connected via an indoor walkway to Casino Niagara, Hard Rock Cafe, and the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark. In the summer, has a rooftop pool with stunning views and cabanas.
I hope this list of cool things to do in Niagara Falls in winter is helpful for your next trip!
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