Imagine a mighty waterfall set against a magical frozen landscape. Imagine glistening icicles and sparkling winter lights. Imagine a winter wonderland that looks straight out of a fairy tale. That’s Niagara Falls in the winter for you! 

Niagara Falls consists of three massive waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side which is the biggest, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls which is the smallest. At peak flow, a mind-boggling 700,000 gallons of water plummet over the brink every second and crash to the base 176 feet below. It’s one of the most visited places on the planet with roughly 13 million people coming to see this marvel of nature every year. When winter comes around and the temperatures drop, the crowds disappear, but the beauty and awe-inspiring power of the falls remain. 

The breathtaking spectacle of Niagara Falls is a year-round destination that is sure to leave you awestruck. But are you hesitant about visiting Niagara Falls in the winter? Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about a winter Niagara Falls trip.

Is Niagara Falls open in the winter time? 

The falls are open for viewing all year round, including the winter holidays such as Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, and St. Patrick’s Day. Some viewing platforms may be closed due to icy conditions.

Is Niagara Falls worth visiting in winter? 

It is! The frozen landscape, sparkling illuminations, and mist and spray from the falls create a magical atmosphere that is impossible to recreate in any other season. On bright, sunny days, the icicles look like works of art. A buildup of ice on the surface of the water can create the illusion that Niagara Falls has frozen over, but the last time the falls stopped flowing was in 1848. Throughout winter, the water continues to fall at a dizzying rate. Niagara Falls in winter is like a scene from a fairy tale. And there are so many attractions, culinary experiences, and accommodations to choose from. 

Is January a good time to visit Niagara Falls? How cold does it get in Niagara Falls?

Sub-zero temperatures are guaranteed at Niagara Falls in the winter months. But, if you bundle up warmly, there’s heaps of fun to be had by the whole family. The holiday season is an especially romantic time for couples with the frosted beauty of the Niagara Falls setting the scene for some unforgettable memories.

What to do at Niagara Falls in winter?

Whether you’re taking a day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto or spending a few days at this magnificent natural wonder, the falls are waiting to welcome you. Here are the top 5 things to do at Niagara Falls in winter:

Marvel at the Winter Festival of Lights

From early November to late January every year, Niagara Falls hosts the Winter Festival of Lights, a free event with 3 million lights and 125 animated displays. There’s also a nightly illumination of the falls with different colors dancing off the ice and showcasing the falls in a whole new light. Experience the spectacular interactive displays and make this your new winter family tradition.

Get a Bird’s Eye View from the Niagara Skywheel

Soar 175 feet in the cozy comfort of your temperature-controlled gondola for the most spectacular aerial view of Niagara Falls. Open year-round, the Niagara Skywheel is Canada’s largest observation wheel and gives guests an unrivaled vantage point over the falls. The ride lasts about 12 minutes and the Skywheel is open 10 am to midnight with extended hours on holidays and weekends. Don’t forget your camera to capture the 360-degree views! 

Witness the Wonder Up Close

Can you walk behind the Niagara Falls? Yes, you can! Journey Behind the Falls is a year-round attraction at the base of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. It’s your chance to get to the heart of this magnificent natural wonder. But first, you’ll need to descend 13 stories into ancient tunnels in the bedrock behind Niagara Falls. And long before you see the water, you’ll hear and feel its thunderous vibrations. Put on the iconic yellow poncho and be prepared to be amazed. The sight of one-fifth of the world’s freshwater crashing at 65 km/hour in front of you has to be seen to be believed.

Escape the Chill at Indoor Attractions

Want to escape the arctic chill for a bit? There’s plenty of indoor entertainment at Niagara Falls. Try your luck at one of the casinos. Watch a movie at the IMAX Theater. Visit the Niagara Power Vista Center for an educational insight into how the falls light up light bulbs. Buckle up for an adrenaline-packed virtual adventure down the Niagara River. Get acquainted with the residents of the Aquarium of Niagara. Or, indulge in some retail therapy at the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA.

Ring in the New Year at Niagara Falls

On December 31, thousands of people bring in the new year at a free outdoor event with live entertainment for the whole family. There are fireworks over the falls earlier in the night for the little ones and again at midnight for the adults. Many other events are happening in the area as well. Head to the free concert at Queen Victoria Park. Or, book yourself a table for a once-in-a-lifetime falls-view dinner at an exclusive restaurant. 

Tempted to visit Niagara Falls in winter? We have a range of the best Niagara Falls tours for you to choose from. On our small-group tours, you can enjoy the company of like-minded travelers. Celebrating a special occasion? Fly in from New York or Boston for a 1-Day Niagara Falls tour and make the most of your time at the falls. See both the American and Canadian sides on a deluxe combo tour. Or, take a more leisurely 4-day tour of Eastern Canada to see Niagara Falls, Montreal, Quebec, Ottawa, and Toronto. You won’t regret visiting Niagara Falls in the winter, but do keep in mind that some attractions are seasonal. If you want to go on the Maid of the Mist boat ride, Hornblower Cruise, or the Cave of the Winds, be sure to check opening dates before you make plans.