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Home to one of the natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls is a famously busy tourist destination throughout the summer months. With half of the iconic falls in upstate New York and the other half in Canada, the area receives its fair share of snow and cold temperatures throughout the winter. However, as any Niagara native can attest, the onset of winter doesn’t mean the area goes into hibernation. No matter the time of year, travelers are sure to find a wide range of fun-filled attractions when visiting Niagara Falls.
Winter Festival of Lights
No one visiting Niagara Falls during the winter months can afford to miss the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights. A historic tradition dating back to the early 1900s, the Festival of Lights entails picturesque winter-themed lighting displays being placed all around the city. These displays grow more impressive by the year and ensure that anyone walking through key areas of Niagara Falls at nighttime is able to enjoy a fantastic show. The Festival of Lights lasts from November 3rd to January 31st, making it the perfect attraction for holiday travelers.
Niagara Icewine Festival
Wine connoisseurs won’t want to miss out on the Niagara Icewine Festival. Lasting from January 11th to January 27th, the Icewine Festival provides attendees with a prime opportunity to sample an assortment of delicious wines from the Niagara region’s world-renowned wineries. Of course, this isn’t to say that this festival only caters to wine lovers. In addition to showcasing a bevy of fine wines, the Icewine Festival also provides guests with world-class local cuisine and quality entertainment. Couples looking for the perfect weekend excursion are sure to have a ball.
Icebreakers Comedy Festival
Anyone looking to have their funny bone tickled should pay a visit to the Icebreakers Comedy Festival. Now entering its sixth year, this festival lasts from January 23rd to January 26th and is the largest comedy festival in the region. The organizers pride themselves on booking the hottest talent in Canada, so anyone who shows up can rest assured that they’re in for a good time. Additionally, since the Icebreakers Comedy Festival is considered part of the Niagara Icewine Festival, travelers who show up for one can easily attend the other.
Nightmares Fear Factory
Travelers who love a good scare will want to test their mettle at Nightmares Fear Factory. Regarded as one of the most frightening haunted houses in the world, Nightmares Fear Factory truly lives up to its reputation. Featuring a bone-chilling backstory and a plethora of intricate rooms to explore, this attraction will leave you screaming long after you’ve left. Over 155,000 visitors have been unable to make it all the way through without chickening out, so if you’re among the brave souls able to make it to the end, you’ll have earned your haunted house bona fides. Nightmares Fear Factory also offers convenient group discounts, making it the perfect attraction for large parties.
Journey Behind the Falls
No Niagara Falls vacation is complete without an up-close look at the iconic falls. Although many boat tours take the winter off, Journey Behind the Falls is open year-round. One of Niagara’s most popular walking tours, Journey provides travelers with the chance to see the falls from behind and below. After visitors have descended 150 feet via an elevator, they can make their way through two portals located right behind the falls. Throughout this walking tour, guests will find an informative assortment of falls-related facts posted on the walls and have ample opportunities to appreciate the visual marvel that is Niagara Falls. At the end of the tour, guests are granted access to two observation decks located at the foot of the falls. However, during the winter months, the lower deck is often closed due to icy conditions.
It’s easy to see why many travelers regard Niagara Falls as a warm weather destination. After all, it’s split between two areas that are known for famously frigid winters. However, unbeknownst to many wintertime vacationers, Niagara Falls is a fantastic place to visit at any time of year. Whether you’re traveling solo, looking for a romantic getaway, or on the hunt for a fun-filled family destination, Niagara Falls has something for everyone. The next time you’re bitten by the wintertime travel bug, chart a course for Niagara.
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