Are you planning a trip to Niagara Falls in winter? Here are seven reasons to visit the area during this particular season. First and foremost, you can see frozen waterfalls and other scenic snow-covered landscapes on the American and Canadian sides.
From state parks and fascinating museums to illuminated displays and observation decks, the Niagara Falls area offers plenty of great indoor and outdoor attractions in the winter.
1) Winter Sightseeing At Niagara Falls State Park
Open throughout the year, Niagara Falls State Park offers some of the best views of the three famous waterfalls in the area. Located on the New York side, this state park offers panoramic views of Niagara Falls frozen throughout the winter season.
You should head to the Prospect Point Observation Tower to enjoy breathtaking views of the American Falls. You can even walk directly to Goat Island for other great views of Niagara Falls.
Additionally, your winter in Niagara Falls should include a stop at the neighboring Niagara Falls USA Official Visitor Center near the Centennial Circle.
2) Watch The Frozen Horseshoe Falls
When you visit Niagara Falls in the winter, you should check out the legendary Horseshoe Falls. Having a drop of 167 feet, these are by far the largest waterfalls in the area. When temperatures plummet below freezing, you might view spectacular sights of the frozen waterfalls. The mists and sprays from the waterfalls also form beautiful icicles and other solid formations from the gorges.
When visiting Niagara Falls at this time of the year, remember to wear plenty of protection for the eyes and head. After all, some of the spraying mists might immediately freeze on your head. The Niagara Falls frozen sightseeing opportunities also include the Bridal Veils Falls and American Falls.
3) Panoramic Views From The Niagara Falls Skylon Tower
A visit to Niagara Falls in the winter season should include a stop at the famous Skylon Tower. When the visibility is excellent, you can see vast stretches of snow-covered landscapes in the beautiful Niagara region. Here are some interesting highlights of this iconic structure that offers sweeping views of the entire region:
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Located on the Canadian side
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Architectural height of 520 feet
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Open to the public since 1965
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Indoor and outdoor observation decks with views of the waterfalls, Lake Ontario, Buffalo, and Toronto
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Rooftop restaurant with full menus and aerial views
4) Winter Festivals And Events In Niagara Falls
Even as temperatures drop in the winter, you can still enjoy some exciting events in the area. You can experience local culture and history at a Niagara Falls winter festival and other great events that offer great entertainment, food, and education.
Niagara Icewine Festival
Offers unique day tours and other excursions throughout the renowned vineyards in Niagara Falls, Ontario. You can experience some of Canada’s finest wines and other culinary treats during this Niagara Falls festival that typically runs through January. Be sure to try some local maple syrup along with the wines during the festival.
Winter Festival Of Lights
Displaying beautiful illuminations to the public since 1982. Installed along the Niagara Parkway and in downtown Niagara Falls, the themed exhibits focus on Canadian culture and history. Major structures and buildings in downtown Niagara Falls are also decorated with sparkling lights during the festival.
5) Indoor Attractions In Niagara Falls
You can seek shelter from freezing temperatures in several great indoor attractions in Niagara Falls. Here is a list of some popular venues that will keep you entertained and warm on a chilly day:
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Bird Kingdom on the Canadian side
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Fallsview Indoor Waterpark in Canada
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Aquarium of Niagara in NY
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Niagara Wax Museum of History in NY
6) Scenic Drive On The Niagara Parkway
Running through the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, this historic parkway offers a truly scenic drive. When visiting Niagara Falls in winter by car, make sure to plan your routes along the parkway in advance.
Heavy snow storms might sometimes close some parts of this important road that runs along the Niagara River. Here are some destinations that you can reach via the parkway:
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Journey Behind the Falls
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Queen Victoria Park
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Niagara Parks Power Station
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Floral Showhouse
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Dufferin Islands
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Nikola Tesla Statue
7) Picturesque Parks And Trails
You can still visit plenty of scenic parks in Niagara Falls in winter. Some of the state parks offer great views of the Niagara River, gorges, and escarpments of the region. When you visit Niagara Falls on a cold day, you can stay warm and active on several popular trails and greenways in NY:
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Great Gorge Railway Trail
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DeVeaux Woods State Park
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Whirlpool State Park
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Devil’s Hole State Park
The Winter Wonderland Tour
Are you planning to spend your winter in Niagara Falls? The Winter Wonderland Tour is one of the most popular attractions in the area.
Niagara Regional Tours operates this seasonal tour with stunning views of waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. Reserve your Winter Wonderland Tour today!
