The best time of year to visit Niagara Falls is between June and August. This time period offers the most desirable summer temperatures, with averages in the low 80s (mid-20s in Celsius) , and all of the attractions are open for operation. One downside to visiting during peak season is the larger crowds, which is one of the reasons some people decide to visit Niagara Falls at a different time of the year.
Coming mid- to late-May or September, just outside of peak season, may help you miss some of the crowds while still getting the full effect. During spring, summer and fall most of the attractions remain open and there are a lot of things to do.
Not all of these attractions will be open if you come during winter, although you can still view Niagara Falls all year long. Keep in mind, winter season is long in the area – popular activities like Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds remain closed until late April or early May.
Summer may be the most popular time of year to visit Niagara Falls, but there are benefits to visiting at other times of the year as well.
What’s it Like to Visit Niagara Falls in the Fall?
If you love to watch the leaves change colours and take long walks in cool temperatures, visiting Niagara Falls during the Fall might be ideal. There are countless ways to explore the Falls during this season, from helicopter tours to guided tours – taking place on both the US and Canadian side of the border. Not only are the waterfalls pouring down in full effect, but the surrounding parks are quite stunning with all of the fall foliage in bloom.
What’s it Like to Visit Niagara Falls in the Winter?
If you’ve already seen the Falls in summer, spring, or fall, it’s worth coming back to see the beauty of the Falls in the winter. The crashing waterfalls are transformed into an icy wonderland. To some people, the sight of the Falls all frozen and covered in icicles with snow flowing over the edge is just as magical as crystal clear water roaring from great heights.
You will get to skip out on a lot of crowds if you come in the winter, plus you’ll enjoy better deals on everything from accommodations to travel because there are less people trying to book a trip at the same time as you. Yet, be warned, you must be able to handle very cold temperatures! In addition, a lot of the main attractions will be closed at this time, leaving you with fewer things to do.
What’s it Like to Visit Niagara Falls in the Spring?
Once all that snow melts into spring, Niagara Falls comes back to life – regaining its greenery and crystal-clear flowing waters. There are beautiful gardens and the sun is shining, creating stunning scenery. With spring comes the chance to hike and bird watch. Plus, a variety of guided tours open back up again. If you like to participate in organized activities and go on guided tours, visiting in the spring is probably more your speed than the winter.
Pros to Visiting Niagara Falls in the Summer
Of course, summer remains the most popular time of year to visit Niagara Falls. Not only are kids out of school but the weather is ideal, and all of the attractions are open.
- All attractions are open
- Mild and comfortable weather
- More things to do
Drawbacks to Visiting Niagara Falls in the Summer
- Cost is higher
- Crowds are larger
- No chance of seeing the cool ice formations that appear in winter
Visiting just outside the peak summer window may offer the best chance to see the Falls without the same crowds or costs getting in the way of your fun. No matter what time of year you visit the area, there is still so much to see and experience, you really can’t go wrong!