English
English
Contents
What's the best time to visit Niagara Falls?
For different types of travelers
Tourist seasons in Niagara Falls
Best months for sightseers & outdoor enthusiasts: June to October
Best months for budget travelers: November to February
Best months for shopping: December and January
High season
June to August
What to expect:
- You’ll likely encounter long lines at attractions. Everyone’s here for the best time!
- The weather is warm, perfect for boat tours like Maid of the Mist and outdoor activities.
- This is a great time for evening events like fireworks and light shows.
Shoulder season
May, September, and October
What to expect:
- The weather is mild during shoulder season with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 28°C, ideal for enjoying the Falls without the summer crowds. Pack your raincoats as you can expect some rainy days during September and early October.
- There are fewer tourists, allowing for more intimate experiences and better deals on accommodations.
- It's a perfect time for those seeking a quieter visit and beautiful fall foliage.
Low season
November to March
What to expect:
- Temperatures fall sharply as winter approaches, averaging about 10°C during the day and dropping below 0°C at night. The river and Falls are usually frozen between late November and December.
- Boat tours and outdoor activities may be limited, but you can experience the magical Winter Festival of Lights.
- You'll find fewer crowds and lower prices on hotels, making it an ideal time for budget travelers.
Seasons in Niagara Falls
Spring
Average temperature: March 1°C to 10°C | April 5°C to 15°C | May 10°C to 21°C
Spring arrives slowly in Niagara Falls, with temperatures gradually warming up from March through May. The snow around Niagara Falls melts and flowers in the surrounding parks bloom. It's an ideal time to witness the Falls amidst the thawing ice, take leisurely walks along the Niagara Parkway, and explore attractions like the Butterfly Conservatory.
Things to do:
- Experience the Maid of the Mist boat tour
- Visit the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
- Explore Niagara-on-the-Lake for wine tasting
Summer
Average temperature: June 15°C to 26°C | July 18°C to 29°C | August 17°C to 28°C
Summer brings warmth and bustling activity to Niagara Falls. It's the peak tourist season, perfect for the Maid of the Mist boat tour, Journey Behind the Falls, and fireworks displays over the Falls.
Things to do:
- Take the Journey Behind the Falls tour
- Enjoy fireworks over the Falls
- Explore Clifton Hill for entertainment
Autumn
Average temperature: September 13°C to 23°C | October 8°C to 17°C | November 2°C to 8°C
Autumn paints Niagara Falls in stunning hues of red, orange, and gold as the foliage transforms the landscape. It's an enchanting time for scenic drives along the Niagara Parkway, wine tasting tours in Niagara-on-the-Lake, and hiking in Niagara Glen.
Things to do:
- Attend the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival
- Take a scenic drive along Niagara Parkway
- Hike in Niagara Glen for stunning views
Winter
Average temperature: December -3°C to 3°C | January -6°C to 0°C | February -5°C to 1°C
Winter casts a serene spell over Niagara Falls with snow-covered landscapes and frozen mist from the Falls, creating a magical atmosphere. It's a quieter time for exploring attractions like the Winter Festival of Lights, and skating at the Niagara Falls Icewine Festival.
Things to do:
- Experience the Winter Festival of Lights
- Ice skate at the Niagara Falls Icewine Festival
- Visit the Niagara Falls History Museum
Best time to visit Niagara Falls: Month-on-month guide
January
Average temperature: -5°C to 1°C
Average rainfall: 76 mm
January in Niagara Falls is serene, with snow-covered landscapes and frozen mist. It's an ideal time for a peaceful getaway with fewer tourists.
Travel tip: Experience the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights from a different perspective by taking a nighttime helicopter tour for stunning aerial views of the illuminated Falls.
February
Average temperature: -5°C to 1°C
Average rainfall: 61 mm
February continues the tranquil winter atmosphere. Explore the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve for picturesque winter hikes and panoramic views of the frozen Niagara River.
Travel tip: Take a guided tour to find hidden ice caves along the Niagara Escarpment and gain unique insights into the geological formations and winter wildlife.
March
Average temperature: 0°C to 7°C
Average rainfall: 77 mm
March brings the first signs of spring with melting ice and budding flowers. Take a guided tour to the lesser-known Bridal Veil Falls for a closer and quieter experience of Niagara's natural beauty.
Travel tip: Attend the Niagara Food Festival, featuring local culinary delights paired with Niagara wines, offering a taste of the region's vibrant food scene.
April
Average temperature: 5C° to 14°C
Average rainfall: 87 mm
April marks the start of spring blooms and milder temperatures. Embark on a sunrise photography tour to capture the misty morning light playing on the Falls, a favorite time for photographers.
Travel tip: Explore the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens during their annual tulip festival, showcasing over 100,000 tulips in full bloom, creating a colorful spectacle.
May
Average temperature: 11°C to 20°C
Average rainfall: 94 mm
May brings warmer weather and outdoor adventures. Experience the thrill of ziplining over the Niagara Gorge with Niagara Falls Zipline and Adventure Course.
Travel tip: Join a guided tour to explore the hidden underground tunnels of the old Ontario Power Generating Station for a unique perspective on Niagara's industrial history.
June
Average temperature: 16°C to 25°C
Average rainfall: 84 mm
June offers peak summer activities and events. Take a sunset cruise on the Niagara River to witness the illuminated Falls against the backdrop of a fiery sunset.
Travel tip: Attend the Niagara New Vintage Wine Festival, featuring exclusive tastings of new releases from Niagara's top wineries, paired with gourmet cuisine.
July
Average temperature: 19° to 28°C
Average rainfall: 78 mm
July is perfect for outdoor exploration and relaxation. Discover Niagara's hidden gem, the Whirlpool Aero Car, for a thrilling ride over the Niagara Whirlpool.
Travel tip: Explore the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve's ancient Carolinian forest on a guided hike, spotting rare wildflowers and bird species unique to the region.
---united-states-maid-of-the-mist-01.jpg?auto=format&w=468.29999999999995&h=267.59999999999997&q=90&fit=crop&ar=7%3A4&crop=faces)
August
Average temperature: 18° to 27°C
Average rainfall: 86 mm
August offers warm summer days and vibrant cultural events. Attend the Niagara Falls International Film Festival for screenings of independent films from around the world.
Travel tip: Visit the Niagara Falls History Museum for an immersive journey through Niagara's rich history and culture, including interactive exhibits and artifacts.
September
Average temperature: 14° to 23°C
Average rainfall: 92 mm
September brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. Take a helicopter tour over Niagara Falls for breathtaking aerial views of the colorful autumn landscape.
Travel tip: Explore the Niagara Parkway on a vintage bicycle tour, stopping at local farms and orchards for fresh cider and seasonal produce.
October
Average temperature: 8° to 16°C
Average rainfall: 79 mm
October showcases Niagara's autumn splendor. Experience the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival, featuring wine tastings, vineyard tours, and culinary demonstrations.
Travel tip: Take a guided walking tour of Niagara-on-the-Lake's secret gardens, exploring historic estates and private gardens open to the public.
November
Average temperature: 2°C to 9°C
Average rainfall: 93 mm
November offers crisp fall days and cozy indoor activities. Attend the Niagara Falls Christmas Market for festive shopping, live music, and seasonal treats.
Travel tip: Embark on a culinary adventure with a guided tour of Niagara's artisanal cheese makers and dairy farms, sampling award-winning cheeses and locally-made dairy products.
December
Average temperature: -2° to 4°C
Average rainfall: 86 mm
December transforms Niagara Falls into a winter wonderland with holiday lights and festive markets. Take a guided evening tour of the Winter Festival of Lights for magical views of the illuminated Falls.
Travel tip: Experience the thrill of ice climbing at Niagara Glen, guided by expert climbers who will teach you the ropes and safety techniques for ascending frozen waterfalls.
0
Frequently asked questions about the best time to visit Niagara Falls
Which time of the year can I get budget deals in Niagara Falls?
You can find budget-friendly deals and special packages in Niagara Falls during January, February, and November. Hotels often offer up to 30% discounts on the room rates. Many restaurants and entertainment venues also offer promotions, like prix-fixe menus and discounted show tickets, especially mid-week.
What is the best time for boat tours in Niagara Falls?
The best time for boat tours in Niagara Falls is from May to October. During this period, the weather is mild, and attractions like the Maid of the Mist and Hornblower Niagara Cruises operate at full capacity. These months also offer the best conditions for experiencing the powerful spray and close-up views of the Falls from the water.
What is the best time to visit Niagara Falls with kids?
June to August is the best time to visit Niagara Falls with kids. During these summer months, families can enjoy exciting activities such as Hornblower Niagara Cruises, exploring interactive museums like the Niagara Falls History Museum, and visiting family-friendly attractions such as the Butterfly Conservatory and Fallsview Indoor Waterpark.
What is the best time to visit Niagara Falls for couples?
September to October is the best time to visit Niagara Falls for couples. During these months, couples can enjoy romantic activities such as scenic boat tours, wine tasting tours in nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, exploring picturesque parks like Queen Victoria Park, and experiencing the breathtaking views of the Falls from various vantage points along the Niagara Parkway.
What is the best time to visit Niagara Falls while traveling solo?
January, February, and November are ideal times to visit Niagara Falls while traveling solo. These quieter months allow solo travelers to enjoy peaceful experiences such as walking along the Niagara River Recreational Trail, taking scenic helicopter tours for bird’s eye views of the Falls, exploring local art galleries and museums, and indulging in quiet moments at cozy cafes and restaurants with scenic views.
What is the best time for shopping in Niagara Falls?
October to December is the best time for shopping in Niagara Falls, especially during the holiday season. Many shops and outlets offer special sales and promotions, making it a great time to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
