With the world beginning to open up again and with more places to explore, consider all of the things to do near Niagara Falls during the Christmas holidays. This famous region is spread between two countries allowing both Canadians and Americans to indulge in the fun activities of Niagara Falls tourist attractions!
When planning a family holiday to search out the best tourist attractions in Niagara Falls, USA or in Canada, educate yourself on local public health protocols. For 2021, some attractions have been closed or cancelled, so it is best to check updates on local closures and policies before you plan on visiting.
Enjoy Niagara Falls in Its Wintery Glory
Contrary to widespread belief, the world-famous Niagara Falls does not actually freeze over, even with the region’s low temperatures. It should be noted, with several days of deepfreeze temperatures, the Falls have been recorded to completely freeze. Most days, however, the appearance of the Falls being frozen is due to a cover of ice forming from the mist and spray; the Falls themselves are still flowing underneath and the roar of the rushing water can be heard year-round.
Regardless of which side of the border you visit, the Falls offer a spectacular wonderland in winter! On the USA side, the famous Maid of the Mist tour boat may be hibernating, but the beauty of the Falls never sleeps. By visiting the observation tower in Niagara Falls State Park, you can admire the ice sculptures created by the Falls. Every night the Falls are illumination by dancing lights and an evening firework show, when permissible, which will take your breath away.
Visitors to the Canadian side won’t want to miss out on any of the fun as the Horseshoe Falls’ ice show glows in a colourful light display. Depending on the winter weather, take a walk along the man-built pathway to decks close to the Falls. It is the perfect wonderland setting for a family photo op.
Make a Snowman in Niagara Falls State Park
Discover America’s oldest state park, first established in 1885. The Niagara Falls State Park in New York becomes a magical kingdom during the winter months and is free to the general public. After a snowfall, join the kids in making snow angels and a snowman! Explore the snowy landscape and take advantage of the brisk fresh air to make lifelong family memories.
In addition, the 400-acre park offers 15 miles of hiking trails, gardens, and protected wildlife. Tourist attractions include an aquarium, an adventure theatre, shops, dining establishments, an observation tower, and tours at a former power plant. The newest attraction is the Cave of the Winds, named after the original touring cave which succumbed to natural destruction in the 1950s. The present cave tour takes visitors to the base of the Falls by elevator.
Enjoy Colourful Niagara Falls Fireworks Shows
When permitted, a spectacular firework show greets both sides of the horseshoe. Lighting up the sky with every colour known to man, the show also lights up the ground below including the icy background surrounding the Falls. Known as Canada’s longest running firework series, the Niagara Falls show has been amusing visitors for nearly 30 years.
Experience Winter at Old Fort Niagara
Turn back time and give the kids a live history lesson with a visit to Old Fort Niagara in New York. This former military site is now a museum offering demonstrations of the historic moments of the 18th and 19th centuries. See original artifacts as you tour the same structures that housed soldiers and experience musket demonstrations. The facility offers unique events such as reenactments of the time periods leading up to the creation of Canada and the United States.
Visit the Niagara Power Generating Station
On the Canadian side, the Niagara Power Generating Station has recently seen a makeover to offer tours to the general public. Learn how the power of the Falls was instrumental in the development of southern Ontario. You will see artifacts, hear true personal stories gathered from workers over the years, and explore interactive exhibits. Evening sees the latest local event known as Currents. This sound and light show teaches the history of Niagara Falls in a fun and interactive way!
Visit Niagara’s Fallsview Indoor Waterpark with Kids
Warm up from the frigid cold temperatures with a splash in one of North America’s largest indoor waterparks. The kids will love the three-acre waterpark by zooming on any of the 16 waterslides, which tower six stories high. They will be attracted to riding the giant wave pool and laughing under the 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. This waterpark resort provides a snack club, a large play area for little ones, and adult-only hot tubs.
Have Fun at a 4D Motion Theatre
See what the buzz is all about at the Iwerks 4D Motion Theatre. This type of theatre is interactive as the movie is synchronized with motion seats and special effects of wind, fog, water, and even scents! Experience the stimulator seating that helps to bring 3D movie technology to life. Air blasters and water jets add to the live action fun!
Locomoland Model Train Miniature World
Bring your kids, and your inner child, to see one of the largest model train layouts in Ontario at Locomoland. Our interactive model railroad museum is the world’s only high-tech remote-controlled model train system located here in Canada. This technology allows you to explore the layout as a passenger or even as the conductor with the help of our micro cameras built into the trains. Experience the speed of our trains and compete against each other on one of the greatest slot cars racetracks in Canada.
Noted by our visitors as one of the best places to visit near Niagara Falls, Locomoland has more than 2,000 square feet of miniature train wonder. We invite you to share your passion for miniature trains with us at our local model train show. Email us at info@locomoland.com or visit out website to learn more.