Niagara Falls lies on the border between New York (USA) and Ontario (Canada). The spectacular waterfall draws tourists on either side but it’s said that the sights on the Canadian side are more impressive. Also, the Canadian side draws more visitors because of the additional attractions and plentiful accommodation.
The best season to visit the falls is in the summer but a winter vacation in Niagara Falls offers a totally different experience. Winter weather is cold and temperatures generally stay below freezing (January’s daytime average is -1C/30F). Snow fall is frequent and the Niagara River is partially frozen (so boat tours aren’t possible).
Planning the budget
Visiting Niagara Falls can be a nice family vacation . Aside from visiting the falls, there are several museums to check out and lots of activities to enjoy during winter.
However, especially during the cold season, it’s probably a good idea to plan the vacation on your own, allowing for possible delays due to the winter weather. If you come from the States, book a flight to Buffalo . The airport is located about 20-30 minutes by car from the falls (allow for longer travel times during winter).
If you come from the Canadian side, you can book a flight to Toronto . Allow for at least one hour and a half to reach the falls by car, although typically it takes longer due to the traffic.
With the flight and rental car secured, it’s time to look for accommodation. Cheap hotels in Niagra Falls are incredibly easy to find, especially during low season. Although it’s a very popular vacation destination, you won’t find too many hotel chains here. Instead, you’ll be pleased to find affordable accommodation on both sides of the falls.
What to do in Niagara Falls in winter
Visiting the falls is free but during the winter season, due to the frost, it’s not possible to take the tour boats. So if you are looking for that experience, plan your vacation during the summer season. Likewise, if you want to test the rides at Marineland Theme Park, you should plan your vacation between May and October.
If you want to experience some interesting views of the falls, go to the observation deck at Skylon Tower (Canadian side). The revolving restaurant offers the same incredible views and there are arcade games at the base of the tower.
Niagara Skywheel (Canadian side) is open year round and offers a 10-minute ride in a ferry wheel. The views of the falls are great.
Winter Festival of Lights takes place in Niagara Falls (Canadian side) between November and January. More than 3 million lights are installed in the buildings and trees. The festival attracts over 1 million visitors each year. There are regular parades, comedy shows, concerts and fireworks displays during the festival.
Queen Victoria Park (Canadian side) offers the best views of the falls. In winter, the landscape is filled with white snow and barren trees. Icicles and crystalline formations form on the trees because of the mist from the falls which drifts up in the freezing weather.
Where to stay
Affordable accommodation is available on both sides of the falls although there are more options on the Canadian side. However, during winter it’s not a problem to find an affordable place to stay regardless of which side you prefer.
Falls Motel (American side) is located only minutes from the falls. All rooms have TV, fridge and coffee/tea making facilities. Room rates aren’t available online but on booking sites you can find rooms start at US$30 per night in late January.
Rodeway Inn Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is located in the Fallsview Tourist Area, just two blocks from the Falls. There’s wi-fi in public areas and two restaurants on site, as well as a heated outdoor pool. The 2010 rates aren’t yet available but a one night package in November 2009 started at $79.99.
Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel (Canadian side) offers 165 guest rooms, all with AC, TV, radio, phone, coffee/tea makers and data jacks. In January, the room rates start at CAD$59.99 per night (2 queen beds).
Doubletree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton – Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is located just two blocks from the falls and offers 224 guest rooms. All rooms have mini-fridge. Free wi-fi is available within the property. In January, room rates start at CAD$89.00 per night (2 queen beds).
Country Inn & Suites Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is located in the heart of the tourist district. All rooms have TV, coffee maker, hair dryer, phone and free wi-fi. In January, room rates start at CAD$58.41 per night (hot deal) and CAD$64.90 per night (standard rate).
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