Niagara Falls, USA in winter looks more like the natural wonder described centuries ago by Father Louis Hennepin, the first European to document the existence of the waterfall – pristine, majestic, and unspoilt.
Winter is the perfect time to visit Niagara Falls, USA with your family. You can explore the Niagara region at a leisurely pace with no crowds and consequently less waiting time at restaurants and attractions.
Most hotels and other establishments offer discounts in winter, so you can even save some money on your Niagara Falls winter tour.
If you are coming from a region where there is no snowfall, a tour of Niagara Falls in winter is a must. The partially frozen Falls and snow-covered landscape turns it into a winter wonderland.
Top Things To Do in Niagara Falls USA in Winter
See Niagara Falls: Visit Niagara Falls State Park to see Niagara Falls upclose. Entry to the park is free and it remains open 24 hours a day all days of the year. Maid of the Mist boat ride will be closed, but Prospect Point and the observation tower, Goat Island, and Luna Island will be open to see Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls State Park: The park is a vast nature reserve with many islands, the Niagara Falls and Niagara River, hiking trails, cafes, a restaurant and many natural and man-made attractions. The following places in the park are open in winter:
- Adventure Theater
- Aquarium
- Discovery Center & Hiking Trails
- Goat Island and Luna Island
- Three Sisters Islands
- Prospect Point
- Prospect Point Observation Tower
- In-Park Dining
- Niagara Falls Illumination and Fireworks
- Gift shops
Admire the vistas and the snow-covered terrain. Families can build snowmen and enjoy a fun-filled day in the park.
Niagara Falls Illumination: See Niagara Falls even at night with the nightly illuminating display of Niagara Falls. See the Falls turn into a kaleidoscope of pretty colours.
Jet boat through Niagara River: Maid of the Mist may be closed but you can still go on a boat ride on Niagara River – in a jet boat, no less. Niagara Jet Adventures operates throughout the winter months (except when there is too much ice in the river). Experience an adrenaline rush and feel the cold water hit you as the boat speeds across the river and through the class 5 rapids. The boat turns back at Niagara Whirlpool (you do not see Niagara Falls on jet boat tours).
Seneca Niagara Casino: The casino has games, bars, lounges, restaurants and entertainment events. The legal age for gambling in the state of New York is 21.
Niagara Wineries: A glass of wine is a sure-fire way to warm up! Just a short distance from Niagara Falls is Niagara wine country. The Niagara Wine Trail USA is home to a diverse collection of vineyards and wineries. The Niagara valley is now home to many wineries, breweries and cideries. You can go on a winery tour with wine tasting.
Other Attractions in Niagara Falls USA
- Castellani Art Museum
- Fashion Outlets Niagara Falls
- Fort Niagara
- Platter’s Chocolate Factory
- Robert Moses Hydroelectric Power Plant
- Rainforest Cafe
If you can withstand cold temperatures, Niagara Falls USA is a great place to visit in winter. For tours and attractions, please check here.