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Get Outside in Niagara This Winter

posted on January 04, 2023 in Niagara Region

Get outside in Niagara this winter

Cold weather won't stop us from enjoying the best of Niagara. If you feel the same, here are some of the best reasons to get outside this winter in Niagara.

Visit the (partially frozen) falls day and night

You might think Niagara Falls is just a warmer weather destination, but that's not true at all! The falls are just as spectacular to behold in winter as large ice formations frame them. When it's been below zero for a few days straight, plan a visit and prepare to be amazed by the majestic winter scene.

The falls are strikingly beautiful by day and spectacular by night as they are illuminated and there are fireworks displays.

You can also journey behind the falls in winter for a whole new experience! Join a tour to descend 125 feet and explore 130-year-old tunnels. You’ll feel the mighty vibration of the falls before you see them. The observation deck is located at the foot and will take your breath away!

Currents: Niagara's power transformed

Experience the best of the Niagara Parks Power Station with Currents. This night show is a feast of sight and sound inside the plant with immersive, interactive storytelling. Explore this historic space and witness the incredible transformation of water to power.

Zip line to the falls

Zip lining isn't just summer fun! Take in a breathtaking, all-encompassing view of Niagara as you zip 67 meters above the Niagara River Gorge. You'll be whisked 670 metres beyond the American Falls to the Falls Landing and Observation Deck at the base of the Horseshoe Falls.

Get your glow on at the Niagara Winter Festival of Lights

Don't miss out on the glorious displays of the Niagara Winter Festival of Lights. It's Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival and your opportunity to enjoy truly spectacular displays with millions of lights. This year marks the festival's 40th anniversary. In honour of it, there's a new illumination light show called “Sparkling Winter Lights”. It features subtle and harsh movements inspired by winter in the north -- everything from gentle snowfalls to the aurora borealis gliding over snowy tundra, to blizzards and the frosted falls. It's quite magical!

Ride the SkyWheel

If you want to do some serious sightseeing in Niagara this winter, take a ride on Canada's largest observation wheel, the SkyWheel. Things look pretty cool from 175 feet (53 metres) over Niagara Falls! The ride lasts between 8 to 12 minutes and boasts some simply spectacular aerial views, giving you the opportunity to gaze for miles in every direction. Evening rides are pretty special thanks to the glittering lights of Clifton Hill and the surrounding Niagara skyline.

Get indoors out of your house

If you're looking for indoor entertainment outside of your home this winter, be sure to visit Niagara's Butterfly Conservatory and Bird Kingdom which will be absolutely balmy on a cold winter day. They'll feel like you're outside on a warmer day in another country and they are great places to spend an afternoon or morning, especially with kids in tow! The Conservatory is one of the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories in North America! It's basically a tropical oasis which features over 2,000 butterflies, lush vegetation and waterfalls. Bird Kingdom is the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary where you'll see and interact with hundreds of tropical birds in a multi-level rainforest. You and the kids will love meeting, interacting with and feeding these beautiful birds.

Take a hike

Looking for a free and active activity for winter? Niagara Falls has some spectacular four season hiking trails. Check out this list of the most beautiful ones to explore and remember to dress warmly and bring some water and food with you.

We hope these activity tips help you get outside this winter and enjoy the best Niagara Falls has to offer!

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