What to Do in Niagara Falls, Canada in Winter
A visit to Niagara Falls should be on every travel bucket list. It’s one of the best experiences in Canada. Located just two hours from Toronto, it’s a must-see destination that fits perfectly into any Toronto itinerary.
If you’re wondering whether Niagara Falls Canada in Winter is worth visiting, the answer is yes! While it’s a different experience from the summer, winter transforms the Falls into a stunning, icy wonderland.
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What Makes Niagara Falls in Winter Special?
✓ See the Falls covered in snow and ice for an extraordinary experience
✓ Explore attractions without summer crowds
✓ Save on Fallsview hotel rates with winter and off-season discounts
✓ Enjoy family-friendly activities such as water parks and holiday events
✓ Take an easy day trip from Toronto
✓ Experience holiday events like the Winter Festival of Lights and Icewine Festival
✓ Indulge in Icewine and seasonal food pairings at Niagara wineries
Plan Your Niagara Trip with My Favourite Resources
✓ Best Niagara Falls Tour Niagara Falls Day Tour with Niagara-on-the-Lake Stop
✓ Best Tour of the Canadian and American Falls: Canadian and American Deluxe Day Tour
✓ Favourite Fallsview Hotel: Sheraton Fallsview
✓ Tickets for Niagara Falls Attractions
21 Things to do in Winter in Niagara Falls Canada
Are you wondering what to do in Niagara Falls in winter? As someone who visits the area frequently, I’ve got you covered. Here’s my list of recommended winter activities .
1. Visit the Horseshoe Falls
⏰ Dates: Open year round ＄Cost: Free
Seeing the Falls in winter is breathtaking. One of the best spots to see the frozen falls is at the brink of the Horsehoe Falls, right outside the Table Rock welcome centre.
The snow covered trees and ice formations along the edge make Niagara Falls appear frozen. If you can visit after a fresh snowfall or on a sunny day, you will be rewarded with some ideal photo opportunities too.
Vsiting the falls in the winter also means you don’t have to fight the summer crowds and you will have most of the views all to yourself.
It can, however, get very cold at the falls. You will definitely want to dress warmly so you can stand up close to the falls. You can also see the falls through the glass windows from the second floor of the Welcome Centre.
2. Attend the Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls
⏰ Dates: November 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025 ＄Cost: Free
The Winter Festival of Lights is one of my favourite holiday traditions. Every year we take a day trip to Niagara Falls to see the parks transformed into an incredible holiday lights display.
With over 75 light displays and three million lights along the Niagara Parkway and nearby parks, this family-friendly event is a magical winter experience.
The best part? It’s completely free! Bundle up to walk or drive the self-guided route and enjoy stunning holiday lights. It’s full of Instagram-worthy spots and an ideal holiday getaway.
3. Ride the Hornblower Niagara Cruises (until December 1 only)
⏰ Dates: Closes December 1, 2024 ＄Cost: $33.50 (Adult)
A boat ride to the heart of the Falls is an experience you don’t want to miss. On the Canadian side, Hornblower Niagara Cruises runs until December 1, 2024, giving you the chance to get up close to all three waterfalls—the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the majestic Horseshoe Falls.
The 20-minute ride is an incredible way to see the Falls from a unique perspective, but winter conditions can make it a chilly adventure! Be sure to dress warmly with waterproof shoes, a hat, and gloves. While ponchos are provided, you might want to bring a change of clothes, just in case you get wet.
☞ Related Post: Hornblower vs Maid of the Mist Niagara Boat Ride
4. Watch the Festival of Lights Fireworks
⏰ Dates: November 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025 on select nights ＄Cost: Free
The Niagara Falls Fireworks Series adds extra sparkle to the Winter Festival of Lights, running select dates from November to January.
With 21 nights of fireworks, you can enjoy displays every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. (November 16–December 26) and daily at 8 p.m. from December 27–January 5. On New Year’s Eve, there’s an extra special display at midnight.
Fireworks are weather-dependent but can be seen from many great vantage points throughout Niagara Falls, including the Skylon Tower, Niagara SkyWheel, a Fallsview restaurant.
If you are staying overnight, you can stay warm and catch the fireworks from one of the many excellent Fallsview hotels that offer a view of the falls.
5. Walk the Niagara Falls Hot Chocolate Trail
⏰ Dates: November 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025 ＄Cost: Varies per drink
Another unique winter activity is Niagara Falls is the Niagara Falls Hot Chocolate Trail. This self-guided tour runs during the Winter Festival of Lights. There are 25 hot chocolate stops located across Niagara Falls—including many within walking distance of the Falls.
From classics like traditional hot chocolate to creative options like S’mores Hot Chocolate and Oreo Mint Hot Chocolate, there are 36 unique flavours to try. There are both non-alcoholic and alcoholic hot chocolate options and prices ranging from $5 to $16 per drink.
If you are visiting the falls during the Winter Festival, plan a stop at one (or more!) of the stores on the trail and indulge in a sweet treat! It’s a fun and tasty way to explore Niagara in November and December.
6. Journey Behind the Falls
⏰ Dates: Open year round; closed Christmas Day ＄Buy Tickets
Winter adds a whole new dimension to Journey Behind the Falls. This activity takes you through tunnels leading right up to the base of the Falls. In winter you’ll experience a spectacular sight you won’t get any other season.
You will be able to get an up close view of the Horseshoe Falls from the upper observation deck. The lower observation deck, however, is not open in winter as it can get very icy and slippery.
7. Visit the Niagara Parks Power Station and Power Station at Night
⏰ Dates: Open year round; closed Christmas Day＄Buy Tickets
This outdoor observation deck, museum, gift shop, and underground tunnel recently in 2021. The Niagara Power Station has an awesome museum that describes the history of harnessing the Falls’ power.
You can also take the elevator 180 feet down to the tunnel below. The long tunnel takes you under the Niagara River before bringing you outside to the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
The Power Station is an excellent winter activity as you can get up close to the falls, but the majority of you time is spent indoors – so you can get out of the cold!
The Power Station at Night offers access to the illuminated tunnel and stunning nighttime views of the Horseshoe Falls. Fireworks are also visible from the viewing platform. Open on select evenings in the winter, it’s essential to check the schedule before planning your night visit.
8. Go to the Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory
⏰ Dates: Open year round; closed Christmas Day ＄Buy Tickets
I love the Butterfly Conservatory. Located just a short drive along the Niagara Parkway, this small indoor conservatory is the perfect tropical escape.
Once you enter you will feel as though you have escaped to another world. You can walk among thousands of vibrant butterflies as they flutter around, landing on flowers—and sometimes, on visitors.
This spot is a welcome break from the cold and it’s a great spot to visit with kids.
9. Explore the Floral Showhouse
⏰ Dates: Open year round; closed Christmas Day ＄Cost: $8 (Adult)
The Floral Showhouse is a beautiful indoor garden that features seasonal displays in winter. Although it’s small, it has both an an indoor conservatory and outdoor garden paths.
The annual Poinsettia Show opens in November, and if you’re visiting Niagara in December, you can get a free photo with Santa on select nights.
During the Winter Festival of Lights, the showhouse even stays open late. It’s the perfect place to warm up, snap some photos, and enjoy the festive atmosphere—especially if you love gardens and holiday lights.
10. Go up the Skylon Tower
⏰ Dates: Open year round ＄Buy Tickets
The Skylon Tower is the perfect spot for panoramic winter views of Niagara Falls and its dazzling holiday lights. Standing 775 feet above the Falls, the observation deck lets you take in the snowy scenery from both indoor and outdoor viewing areas.
For an extra-special experience, book a meal at the revolving dining room and enjoy incredible views while dining. You can even book a traditional Christmas dinner at the Skylon Tower if you are looking for a place to eat on Christmas Day.
The best time to visit is during the Winter Festival of Lights, especially on nights with fireworks. Whether you stay cozy inside or brave the outdoor deck, it’s a must-do in winter!
11. Ride the Zipline to the Falls
⏰ Dates: Open daily until January 5, including Christmas Day ＄Buy Tickets
The Zipline to the Falls is an exhilarating attraction and a unique way to see both the American and Horseshow Falls. You’ll glide 670 meters (2,200 feet) toward the base of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, reaching speeds of over 70 kph (40+ mph).
You’ll pass the American Falls and land on a scenic observation deck overlooking the gorge at the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
While the ride only lasts 45–60 seconds, the thrill and views make it unforgettable—just bundle up, as it can get pretty chilly in winter!
11. Wander Through Clifton Hill
⏰ Dates: Open year round＄Cost: Free, Attractions vary
Clifton Hill stays lively all winter long, with attractions, restaurants, and the festive atmosphere of the holidays.
It’s a fun area for families and friends, featuring arcade games, quirky museums, and attractions like the Great Canadian Midway.
Our kids always enjoyed coming here during the winter. After walking by the falls we would head to Clifton Hill for some arcade fun or a walk through one of the tacky museums. And yes, it is very touristy and not for everyone, but it can sure make for a fun winter day trip from Toronto.
12. Ride the SkyWheel
⏰ Dates: Open year round ＄Cost: Buy Tickets
The Niagara SkyWheel offers a unique way to see the Falls in winter from 175 feet above the ground. As Canada’s largest observation wheel, it features climate-controlled, heated gondolas, so you can stay warm while enjoying incredible views.
If you visit during the Winter Festival of Lights, you can see the holiday lights while riding the SkyWheel after dark. In the day, from the vantage point of the Niagara SkyWheel you can capture some striking photographs of the falls covered in snow and ice.
Plus, winter means much shorter lines compared to the busy summer months, making it an even better experience!
13. Splurge on a Niagara Helicopter Ride
⏰ Dates: Open year round; Closed Christmas Day＄Buy Tickets
If you are looking for a really unique experience, you might want to consider a helicopter ride over Niagara Falls. You can do a day or an evening tour.
The Winter Nights & Lights Experience is the only night helicopter tour over Niagara Falls, offered during the Winter Festival of Lights. Tours run daily from sunset to 9 p.m., weather permitting, and last 12 minutes, including boarding time.
The route follows the Niagara River, soaring over the Whirlpool area, the Whirlpool Rapids, and the Rainbow Bridge. It’s an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind way to see Niagara Falls from above.
14. Check Out the Cave of the Winds Winter Experience
⏰ Dates: Open year round ✓ Addresss: Niagara State National Park＄Cost: Free
Although Cave of the Winds is located on the U.S. side of Niagara Falls within Niagara Falls State Park, it’s worth considering during your winter visit to Niagara Falls.
The Cave of the Winds offers one of the most spectacular winter experiences on either side of the falls. This attraction allows visitors to get to the base of Bridal Veil Falls.
Here you can see the stunning ice formations from a unique and extraordinary perspective.
If you have time, crossing to the American side via the Rainbow Bridge is easy. You can walk or drive across and park on the U.S. side. Just remember, you’ll need to go through Canadian and U.S. Customs, so bring your passport!
15. Eat Somewhere with a Great View of the Falls
Many Niagara Falls restaurants, including those in hotels and Skylon Tower, offer stunning views of the illuminated Falls. Dining with the Falls as your backdrop—especially as snow falls or lights sparkle over the mist—adds a memorable touch to any winter visit to the falls.
16. Enjoy the Niagara Falls Casinos
⏰ Dates: Open year round ＄Cost: Free entry
Niagara Falls offers two casinos for adults: Fallsview Casino and Casino Niagara. Both feature gaming tables, slot machines, and live entertainment.
During winter, you’ll also find holiday events, like concerts and special performances. For example, “Christmas with the Tenors” is a seasonal favourite. Even if you don’t gamble, the casinos are great spots for a drink, meal, or catching a hockey or football game.
They’re an entertaining way to warm up and enjoy a night out in Niagara Falls in winter.
17. Visit a Niagara Water Park
If you’re looking for indoor fun this winter, Niagara’s water parks are a perfect choice.
The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, located just one block from the Falls, is packed with slides, wave pools, and hot tubs. It’s connected to the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel, Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls-Fallsview Hotel, and Casino Niagara, so you don’t even have to step outside to get there.
Great Wolf Lodge is another fantastic option, offering water park access for two full days when you stay just one night. For families with kids, these water parks are a warm and fun way to enjoy a winter getaway.
18. Go Outlet Shopping at Outlet Collection at Niagara
⏰ Dates: Open year round ＄Cost: Free
If you like to shop, the Outlet Collection at Niagara is a great spot to visit. As Canada’s largest open-air outlet mall, it’s located just 15 minutes from Niagara Falls right off the 401 highway. With over 100 brands like Aritzia, Nike, Kate Spade, Coach and Lululemon, it’s a shopper’s paradise.
During November and December, you’ll find extended holiday hours, perfect for Black Friday, Boxing Day, or Christmas shopping. On select December dates, you can even enjoy free s’mores in the courtyard. Whether you’re gift hunting or indulging yourself, it’s a fun winter stop!
Things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake in Winter
Just minutes from Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake is the perfect weekend escape and is a lovely place to visit any time of year. Here are a few winter activities to try in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
19. Tour Some Niagara Wineries
Winter is the perfect time to visit a Niagara winery. The region is famous for its Icewine, made from grapes frozen on the vine. Many wineries offer special winter tastings and Niagara’s wine tasting tours are an excellent option to seeing Niagara’s world-class wineries.
Even if wine isn’t your thing, wineries are excellent dinner options—I find their food far better than what’s offered at Clifton Hill.
I highly recommend Wayne Gretzky Winery, where the outdoor fountain becomes a skating rink in winter. Peller Estates is another favourite, serving the best lobster pasta and alcohol-free mocktails I’ve ever had.
Some wineries also host special events like holiday markets, perfect for finding stocking stuffers or Christmas gifts. My top pick is 13th Street Winery in St. Catharines, which has an amazing bakery offering fresh seasonal treats, jams, jellies, and preserves made with Niagara produce. Their butter tarts have even been voted Canada’s Best Butter Tart!
20. Buy Tickets for the Niagara Icewine Festival
⏰ Dates: Friday, Jan 10, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – Sunday, Jan 26, 2025, 5:00 p.m.
If you’re visiting in January, the Niagara Icewine Festival is a must. This event features 28 participating wineries across the region, celebrating Canada’s famous cold-climate wine tradition. You can purchase a pass for a self-directed tour, with a driver’s pass available at a reduced rate for non-drinkers.
The festival offers exclusive Icewine and culinary pairings, including creative combinations like Icewine with chocolate-dipped strawberries, brandy butter tarts, sushi fusion, and French onion soup with sourdough croutons and aged gouda. It’s a delicious and unique way to experience the best of Niagara’s renowned wineries.
21. Attend the Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Village
⏰ Dates: January 20th – 21st & January 26th – 28th, 2025
My husband and I often come to enjoy a weekend in Niagara-on-the-Lake and this includes visiting in winter. January is a perfect time to visit as the Icewine Village transforms the historic district into an outdoor celebration of Icewine.
Over two weekends in January, this outdoor event celebrates the region’s famous Icewine.
Visitors to the Icewine Village can stroll along Queen Street, sip Icewine by cozy bonfires, enjoy the impressive ice sculptures, and listen to live music.
If you haven’t been to Niagara-on-the-Lake, it’s a great spot to add to your winter bucket list. This charming town gives off Hallmark-Christmas vibes and the Icewine Festival is an ideal way to enjoy Niagara Falls in January.
What Niagara Attractions Are Closed During the Winter?
While many attractions remain open during the winter in Niagara Falls, there are several attractions that are closed including:
- White Water Walk
- Aero Cable Car
- Hornblower Niagara Boat Cruise (after December 1) and Maid of the Mist
- Zipline to the Falls (after January 5)
- Power Station at Night (open select evenings December – May)
Where to Stay in Niagara Falls in Winter
If you plan to stay overnight in Niagara Falls, choosing the right hotel can be challenging as there are many options. Here are my top three choices based on my personal experiences.
My Top Hotel Picks for Niagara Falls
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sheraton Fallsview Hotel
⭐️⭐️ Marriott on the Falls
⭐️ Holiday Inn Express Niagara-on-the-Lake
Sheraton Fallsview
⭐️ RATING: 8.2 | ✓ Check Rates and Availability | Address: 5875 Falls Ave
The Sheraton Fallsview Hotel is my top pick for a winter stay in Niagara Falls. It’s in the ideal location—right at the base of Clifton Hill. It is walking distance to the Falls, great restaurants, the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, and Casino Niagara.
What makes it even better in winter? You can enjoy amazing views of the Falls and fireworks right from the warmth and comfort of your room.
The hotel also has an indoor pool, on-site restaurants, and a coffee shop, so you don’t even need to step outside to have a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Marriott on the Falls
⭐️ RATING: 8.2 | ✓ Check Rates and Availability | Address: 6755 Fallsview Blvd
The Marriott on the Falls is another one of my favorite hotels on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, especially in winter. While it’s not the fanciest hotel in the area, it offers some of the best views at a more reasonable price.
During the colder months, you can enjoy stunning, unobstructed views of the Horseshoe Falls from the comfort of your room—no need to brave the freezing temperatures outside.
The hotel is conveniently located near the top of the Incline Railway, making it easy to get down to the Falls quickly, even in winter. As the closest hotel to the Horseshoe Falls, it’s perfect for a cozy winter getaway.
Holiday Inn Express – Niagara on the Lake
⭐️ RATING: 9.4 | ✓ Check Rates and Availability | Address: 524 York Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake
The Holiday Inn Express in Niagara-on-the-Lake is where we often stay when visiting Niagara Falls. It is a great option if you’re looking for something more affordable. While it doesn’t offer views of the Falls, it’s directly across from the outlet stores and perfect for exploring both Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake.
This hotel includes free parking, free breakfast, and even has an indoor pool, making it a budget-friendly choice for your winter getaway. If a Fallsview room isn’t a priority and you have a car, this is an excellent place to stay in Niagara.
Is Niagara Falls Canada Worth Visiting in the Winter?
Visiting Niagara Falls in winter is absolutely worth it for a stunning Canadian winter vacation. While Niagara Falls is worth visiting year-round, the region becomes truly mesmerizing when covered in ice and snow. It’s a unique winter experience that offers breathtaking views and plenty of seasonal activities.
That said, it’s important to prepare for the cold. The mist from the Horseshoe Falls can make the area around the brink especially chilly, so dressing in warm layers and taking breaks indoors are essential.
If you’re visiting for more than a day, I recommend exploring beyond the main Fallsview area and into Niagara-on-the-Lake to fully experience what the Niagara region has to offer.
For the best winter experience, plan your visit in November, December, or January, when seasonal events are in full swing.
Before You Go: Read More About Niagara Falls
If you’re planning a visit, you might also enjoy reading about how to explore Niagara Falls in a day or discover the perfect Niagara Falls 2-day itinerary for a longer stay.
For wine lovers, check out our guide to the best Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries to add to your trip.
And if you’re wondering how to travel from Toronto the Niagara Falls, we’ve compared the different transportation options to help you decide. There’s plenty to explore beyond the Falls!
