Although summertime is typically regarded as the “travel season,” there’s a lot to be said for winter traveling. While weather conditions may not be as agreeable as they are during the summer months, there’s never a bad time to visit certain destinations. Case in point: Niagara Falls, Ontario. In addition to housing the identically named series of world-famous waterfalls, this bustling Canadian city is home to an array of fun-filled attractions that will delight even the most discerning traveler. Wintertime vacationers on the hunt for a lively, affordable and all-around engaging destination should consider everything Niagara Falls has to offer.
1. Festival of Lights
Anyone visiting Niagara Falls between the beginning of November and the end of January is urged to check out of annual Festival of Lights. One of the area’s most popular attractions, the Festival of Lights is attended by over one million travelers each year. As the name suggests, this months-long festival is known for its cutting-edge light displays and amazing fireworks shows. Popular light displays include the world’s largest Canadian-American flag, assorted wildlife and Noah’s Ark. In addition, the Festival of Lights features art exhibitions from some of Canada’s most renowned creative minds. Travelers interested in ringing in the New Year in Niagara Falls won’t want to miss out on the festival’s off-the-hook New Year’s Eve concert.
2. Festival of Stars
Music lovers in search of a good concert needn’t look any further than the Festival of Stars. This popular concert event takes place every December and features a broad assortment of pop and country singers. Featuring such big names as Daniel O’Donnell, Mary Duff and Crystal Gale, the Festival of Stars is a can’t-miss for travelers looking for a great show.
3. Deck the Falls
Visitors who want to get a feel for the city of Niagara Falls should embark on the Deck the Falls walking tour. This self-guided tour provides travelers with a firsthand look at the city’s famous tourist district while allowing them to take part in a bevy of interactive experiences. Throughout this tour, you’ll indulge in local delicacies, have access to craft workshops, meet local entertainers and participate in exclusive games. If the full Niagara experience is what you’re after, don’t hesitate to book a tickets for Deck the Falls.
4. Indoor Water Parks
Although water parks are generally associated with summertime, they can also be enjoyed during the frosty winter months – provided, of course, you happen to be visiting Niagara Falls. Home to a wide assortment of indoor water parks, Niagara Falls is the perfect destination for travelers who want to enjoy waterslide action all year long. Fallsview, Waves and Skyline all provide visitors with first-rate indoor water parks and family accommodations, much to the delight of travelers on the hunt for Niagara Falls, Canada hotels.
5. Journey Behind the Falls
When visiting Niagara Falls, you can’t go home without seeing the area’s iconic waterfalls up close. This is where Journey Behind the Falls enters the picture. Available year-round, this popular walking tour gives visitors the opportunity to see the Falls from behind and below. After descending 150 feet via elevator, you’ll walk through two portals located behind the waterfalls. Throughout your journey, you’ll find posters that contain an array of fascinating facts about Niagara Falls and have countless chances to appreciate the visual splendor of your surroundings. The tour typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes to complete, and at the end, you’ll have access to the upper and lower observation decks, which are found at the foot of the Falls. During the winter months, the lower deck is frequently closed due to ice conditions, but guests are given reduced rates whenever this occurs.
There’s never a dull time to chart a course for Niagara Falls. Whether you’re traveling solo, embarking on a romantic getaway or taking a family vacation, Niagara Falls has plenty to keep you entertained. While the iconic waterfalls are undeniably this festive city’s most popular attraction, there are countless other activities that every traveler is sure to enjoy. Unlike other popular destinations, Niagara Falls doesn’t allow snow and chilly temperatures to drive it into hibernation during the winter. Instead, the city fully embraces wintertime and all its wonders and maintains the same fun-filled atmosphere year-round.