Do you wish to take home some stunning photos from your trip here? Here are 10 of the best places for incredible seasonal scenic views in Niagara Falls.
#1 Skylon Tower
Cost: $18/Adult and $9/Child
You will be 775 feet high when you do the “Ride-to-the-Top” at the Skylon Tower. You will get an incredible 360° view of the Niagara Falls and the surrounding landscape via the Indoor/Outdoor Observation Decks. The elevators are also glass-enclosed. See the Falls, the Great Gorge, and even the city skylines of Buffalo, New York and Toronto!
#2 Oakes Garden Theatre
Cost: FREE
The Oakes Garden Theatre offers a few differing spots to get great photos of the Niagara Falls. The park is located at the bottom of Clifton Hill and the Niagara Parkway/River Road, and provides scenic views from the benches (as shown). It is also built in a shape in which at any point within a pergola built at the top of the park, you will be presented with a panoramic view of the Falls. It connects two open pavillions where one delivers a picturesque view of the Horseshoe Falls, and the other of the American Falls.
#3 Niagara Helicopters
Cost: from $185/Adult and $113/Child
For a one-of-a-kind adventure, the Niagara Helicopters is the way to go! Every photo you take will be awe-inspiring, with views of the Niagara Falls, the Sir Adam Beck Generating plant, the Botanical Gardens, the Niagara River from the Whirlpool area, the Rainbow Bridge and beyond!
#4 Niagara SkyWheel
Cost: $15/Adult and $7/Child
The Niagara SkyWheel offers panoramic views of the Niagara Falls and beyond from 175 feet off the ground from the top of Clifton Hill. From this vantage point you will be treated to memorable views of the Horseshoe and American Falls, the Niagara River, Niagara Parks and other landmarks. The gondolas are also climate-controlled.
#5 Table Rock Welcome Centre
Cost: FREE
The Table Rock Welcome Centre features a mixture of Gift Shops, the Elements Restaurant, the Journey Behind the Falls and Niagara’s Fury attractions. Inside this centre, there is a two-level indoor viewing gallery called the “Grand Hall”, where visitors are treated to an up-close view of the Falls.
#6 Journey Behind the Falls
Cost: $19.00/Adult and $12.50/Child
Journey Behind the Falls attraction gives you the opportunity to descend 150 feet through bedrock to tunnels that will overlook experiencing the Horseshoe Falls from directly underneath the cascading Falls!
#7 The Niagara Glen
Cost: FREE (but be very careful and wear the appropriate gear)
The Niagara Glen offers an opportunity to view the natural, rugged beauty of the region through trails, rock climbing, and close access to the Niagara River. Direct access to the Niagara Glen trails is found at the highest part of the gorge, where a metal staircase sits at the edge of the cliff. The Glen overlooks the Niagara River Gorge Whirlpool.
#8 Whirlpool Aero Car
Cost: $19/Adult and $12.50/Child *Open Seasonally April – November*
Get out your pictures for a beautiful shot of the Niagara Gorge from the Whirlpool Aero Car. As you soar across the torrent of water below, you will witness one of the world’s most frightening natural phenomena’s, the Niagara Whirlpool below. The car travels safely between two different points of the Niagara River. the trip is slightly more than 1 kilometre (3,600 feet).
#9 Queen Victoria Park/Niagara Parkway
Cost: FREE
Of course, there’s no better place for a free view of the Niagara Falls than along the Niagara Parkway at Queen Victoria Park! Whether you are taking a stroll along the pathway, checking out the Zimmerman fountain, sunbathing in the grassy field, or purchasing tickets from the Hornblower landing, you are offered a first-class view of the Falls from here. The park also features a major stone garden, a Hybrid tea rose garden, and attractive carpet bed displays.
#10 Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower)
Cost: From $33.50/Adult and $23.50/Child
Niagara City Cruises is an intimate tour that gets you as close as possible to the breathtaking flow of water, power and mist that is the magnificent Niagara Falls. Within the Niagara Great Gorge you will journey past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and into the very heart of the famous Horseshoe Falls. Grab a camera and get some amazing shots!
The recreational activity of Mini Golf has existed for over a hundred years, since 1915. It’s amazing to think how an activity went from something so simple to eventually become the elaborate and intricate putting courses we have today. Here’s a look into the crazy and zany history of mini golf!
Ladies Putting Club 1894 at St. Andrew’s Links in Scotland
Mini golf started off in Scotland in 1867 with the “Ladie’s Putting Club”. While golfers waited to play a round, there was a putting green nearby in which people could practice their swing while they waited. This included many bored women who liked to burn off steam waiting for their fathers and husbands to finish. This distracted many men, so a smaller course titled the ‘Himalayas’ (an 18-hole putting green) was formed near the visitors’ clubhouse for the women to play at. It was simple with no man-made obstacles; just the natural hills of the course to add some complexity to the game.
“Thistle Dhu” Miniature Golf Course 1916
The first golf course recorded in America was in 1916, by a North Carolina man named James Barber.
He hired a designer and landscaper to create a small golf course which he named “Thistle Dhu” (“This Will Do”). Unlike St.Andrew’s Links, it features hazards such as trees, water and sand traps.
Featured in Popular Science August 1919
A “Tom Thumb” Golf Course (1930)
In 1922, a gentleman named Thomas McCulloch Fairbairn (who was a cotton processing plant owner), noticed that cottonseed hulls would compact and fuse when crushed, so he revolutionized the game when he formuled “artificial green”. Suddenly, playing mini golf became much more entertaining to “regular folk”. Before this time mini golf was a sport for golf fanatics and the wealthy to pass time.
Garnet Carter takes a turn putting the ball.
In 1928, Garnet Carter, a traveling salesman, needed something to entertain his guests at the Fairyland Inn at Lookout Mountain in Tennessee. Carter had a fascination with European folklore (hence the name of the Inn), so he built the first “Tom Thumb” mini golf course after the miniature boy (no bigger than his Dad’s “thumb”). It included gnomes and hollowed-out tree trunks. Carter patented and sold franchise licenses of his Tom Thumb Golf Courses. Soon “Tom Thumb” golf courses were popping up all over the U.S. and Canada.
Tom Thumb in Toronto, Ontario
The game of miniature golf took a hit during the Great Depression, as people couldn’t afford to play. It stayed stagnant until 1938 when the Taylor brothers began to build their own miniature golf courses, but also started adding landscaping, and eye-catching obstacles such as windmills, and castles. By the early 1940’s, Joe and Bob Taylor were in the business of building miniature golf courses and supplying obstacles to companies, and were even sent overseas to entertain soldiers in WWII and Korea.
Fast forward to the miniature golf courses of today, and it has become a favourite family and friends pastime.
Above is a photo of “Funspot’s Mini Golf” (August 1964), New Hampshire that started featuring all these “bells” and “whistles”
Dinosaur Adventure Golf, Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls
Photo by: Dennis Jarvis of Halifax, Canada
Clifton Hill’s Dinosaur Adventure Golf is a prime example of how mini golf evolved over the years. Canada’s largest mini golf features a 50 foot high “active” volcano, 3 ponds, a series of difficult obstacles at each hole. 36 holes of golf make this course unique, where you get to choose one of two 18-hole courses to play.
Dinosaur Adventure Golf is populated by 50 realistic and life-sized dinosaurs, complete with sound effects and photo opportunities.
The ice boom on the Niagara River began its retreat recently which means that the opening of Niagara City Cruises (Hornbower on the Canadian side), and the Maid of the Mist (US side) is here!
Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) opens March 28th, 2024 for the season and the Maid of the Mist is tentatively opening April 4th, 2024 with bookable dates starting now.
Both of these Niagara Falls Boat Tours are tremendously popular tourist attractions and are not to be missed this Spring!
Continue reading to review the timeline of the original Maid of the Mist boat tour (North America’s oldest tourist attraction), progressing to our current date which includes the addition of the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) boat tours.
1846 – The Maid of the Mist Ferry Service Launched
Crossing the Niagara River in order to transport people was unheard of until the introduction of small boats in 1834. On May 27th, 1846, the very first Maid of the Mist boat was first introduced, but not as a tourist attraction. It ferried people, cargo, and mail across the river for a small fee. However, making money in this regard was short-lived after the first Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge was completed.
1848 saw a temporary bridge introduced, and in 1854 a lower deck was opened for pedestrian and carriage purposes. Taking money away from the ferry, it was decided to turn the Maid of the Mist into a tourist attraction, allowing people to get as close to the Falls as possible.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour – 1st Generation (1854-1860)
On July 14th, 1854, a new Maid of the Mist was launched. This one was 72 feet long and featured a paddle boat engine rather than a sidewheel steam engine.
With business dwindling mainly as the result of the onslaught of the American Civil War (1861-1865), the boat was sold at a public auction to a Montreal firm in 1861.
However, the boat had to be successfully delivered to Lake Ontario, which meant it had to be navigated through the Great Gorge Rapids, the Whirlpool, and the Lower Rapids.
Captain Robinson undertook the frightening task on June 6th, 1861, and successfully made it through the rapids (although lost the smoke stack in the process).
Service was not restored until 1885 under a new partnership: The Maid of the Mist Steamboat Company.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 2nd Generation: 1885 – 1955
The second generation Maid of the Mist was launched in June of 1885 which reached closer to the Horseshoe Falls than its previous counterparts.
Then, an additional boat was unveiled in 1892 on the American side. These boats sailed until April 22, 1955, when they burned in an accident on the Canadian side.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 3rd Generation (1955 – 1990)
On July 28th, 1955, a third generation Maid of the Mist I (1955–1990) was introduced to replace the destroyed vessels — this time, it was made of steel and powered by diesel engines.
In June 1956, an additional Maid of the Mist steel boat was added to the fleet and was christened the Maid of the Mist II (1956 – 1983)
On July 9th, 1960 the Maid of the Mist II contributed to the heroic saving of 7 year old Roger Woodward, the boy who became the first person to survive a plunge over the Horseshoe Falls wearing only a life jacket. The Maid of the Mist II was just making its turn below the Falls when a crew member spotted the boy.
Captain Clifford Keech maneuvered the boat so the crew could successfully save Roger, who luckily only sustained a minor concession, and was in hospital for only 3 days. In 1983, the Maid of the Mist II was sold and it served as a Missionary ship on the Amazon River.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 4th Generation (1972 – Now)
Maid of the Mist III: 1972–1997
Maid of the Mist III takes to the water, carrying 210 passengers. This boat is a 65-foot-long, 65-ton vessel powered by two 250-horsepower diesel engines.
Maid of the Mist IV: 1976-2013
Maid of the Mist IV, a 300-passenger boat, is introduced. The new boat is 72 feet long, 24 feet wide, weighs 74 tons and is powered by two 250-horsepower diesel engines.
Maid of the Mist V: 1983-2013
Maid of the Mist V gives passengers the thrill of their lives. It’s all steel, 72 feet long, weighs 74 tons and powered by two 335-horsepower diesel engines to safely carry 300 passengers.
Maid of the Mist VI: 1990 – Present
In 1990, the Maid of the Mist VI was launched into service. The 145 tonne, 80 foot all steel double deck boat is capable of carrying 600 passengers at a time!
This made it the 10th Maid of the Mist boat to contribute to the Niagara Falls Boat Tours — and the largest, which is still running today. Accompanying boat VI was the addition of the Maid of the Mist VII on July 11th, 1997 (also still running today) at 80 feet and with the capacity to carry 600 passengers as well.
New York State Governor Saves the Maid in Late 2012
On December 4th, 2012, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo visited Niagara Falls, New York to make a major announcement: An agreement between Cuomo’s administration and the Maid of the Mist calls for the company to pay for $32 million in upgrades near the site of the former Schoellkopf power plant to turn the area into a winter storage dock for its two-boat American fleet.
On Thursday, October 26th, 2013, the Maid of the Mist did its final boat tour on the Canadian side. The business continues to operate from the US side of the gorge and departs from its dock just beyond the Rainbow Bridge. The Canadian side was replaced by Hornblower Niagara Cruises, a California-based company at the start of Spring of 2014.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 5th Generation (Launched 2019)
New-build emission-free vessels was launched during 2019 season
In 2019, the Maid of the Mist launched the first two new all-electric, zero-emission passenger vessels constructed in the United States. The new catamaran-style vessels will provide more than 1.6 million guests from around the world with an up-close, iconic view of Niagara Falls. The vessels feature a wide stance, resulting in a smooth, quiet ride, allowing them to better enjoy the roar and majesty of Niagara Falls.
ABB, a pioneering technology leader in digital industries, will supply a comprehensive integrated power and propulsion solution for the newbuild vessels, including lithium-ion battery packs and an onshore charging system, enabling sustainable operation with maximum reliability.
Powered by ABB’s zero-emission technology, the two fully-electric vessels will take tourists to the heart of the Niagara Falls, undisturbed by engine noise or exhaust fumes. Batteries will be recharged for seven minutes after each trip to 80 percent capacity, allowing for maximum efficiency and battery life.
Maid of the Mist VI (1990) and Maid of the Mist VII (1997), were removed from service when the new vessels began operating.
Niagara City Cruises (Formery Hornblower): Launched in 2014
Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) offers two catamarans that carry approximately 700 people, and a third charter boat reserved specifically for private functions that carries approximately 150 passengers.
The Niagara City Cruises official ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Wednesday, May 14th, 2014 which showcased speeches by the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) CEO, Terry MacRae, Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati, Mory DiMaurizo, General Manager of Niagara Cruises and the Niagara Parks Commission chair, Janice Thomson. It officially opened the following day to excited crowds.
Wearing their red ponchos, locals and tourists alike flocked the Niagara City Cruise Plaza to become a part of history on its grand opening day. The distinct differentiation between the Niagara City Cruises and the Maid of the Mist docked on the US side, is the swarm of customers wearing red (Niagara City Cruises) and blue (Maid of the Mist) ponchos. Both these Niagara Falls boat tours are anticipating another exciting season. This past Winter season saw far less ice form on Lake Erie, which flows into the Niagara River. With the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) running and Maid of the Mist soon to launch in April.
This is the 9th season for Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower), and — wait for it — the 177th year for Maid of the Mist.
Enjoy the work of the talented amateur and professional photographers below who captured the World Famous SkyWheel on the Street of Fun by the Falls! Also be sure to visit our Instagram page for more Clifton Hill Fun!
The Top 50 Images of the SkyWheel Found on Instagram!
Discover five compelling reasons to make Boston Pizza Clifton Hill your ultimate destination for America’s grandest football championship, the Super Bowl! With a variety of viewing areas featuring the largest state-of-the-art jumbo screens, Boston Pizza Clifton Hill ensures an unparalleled experience. Dive into the excitement of the connected Great Canadian Midway and Strike Game Zone, offering a plethora of entertaining games for friendly competitions with family and friends. Throughout the night, savor your favorite game-time delights, including wings, pizza, beer, nachos, and sandwiches. Rally your posse and join us for the best night of full-on football fun!
Super Bowl LVIII: Sunday, February 11, 6:30pm San Francisco VS. Kansas City
We Attract Some of the Biggest Football Fans!
Boston Pizza Clifton Hill is the top choice for football and sports enthusiasts, offering an unbeatable venue to catch the most anticipated games. With diverse viewing areas featuring state-of-the-art jumbo screens, patrons enjoy an immersive sports experience.
Multiple Viewing Screens!
Experience non-stop game excitement with numerous high-definition screens in every section, ensuring you catch every thrilling moment! Don’t miss a minute of the action-packed games, as our state-of-the-art screens provide crystal-clear views for an immersive viewing experience. Elevate your game-day experience with us!
Amazingly Delicious Food!
Indulge in a quick and fresh selection of pizza, wings, nachos, burgers, or ribs to satisfy your cravings. Our menu offers a variety of delicious options served promptly, ensuring you get the flavors you desire without any wait. Enjoy a satisfying and speedy dining experience with us!
Strike Game Zone is Under the Same Roof!
Round up your pals and elevate your sports-watching experience with a lively bowling match, adding an extra layer of fun to the game-day excitement. After bowling, try your skills on the high-tech arcade games and racing simulators at Strike Game Zone – a must-visit spot for fun in Niagara.
Prime Location On Clifton Hill!
Perfectly situated at the heart of Clifton Hill’s renowned Street of Fun by the Falls, our location is ideal for easy access to all the excitement. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere and discover the wonders of Clifton Hill, making our spot the prime choice for those seeking the best of entertainment and attractions near the Falls.
A fun Valentine’s activity is to take your special someone out to eat. Sharing lunch or dinner together, sitting across from one another with delicious food and drink, is perhaps one of the nicest ways to spend time together.
This article is for you if you’re organizing that first Valentine’s date with someone you’ve been longing to meet or just a nice night out with your long-term partner. We recommend dining at Boston Pizza Clifton Hill for a cuisine that has something for everyone, situated in a warm and lively environment. Believe it or not, what we choose when we go out to eat tells a lot about our personalities, so why not choose to show that you’re laid-back and generous by ordering something to share?
Appetizers Made For Sharing
To stimulate your appetites and get the conversation flowing, order an appetizer or two that’s been created for sharing. Be careful, the dishes are delicious and you will be tempted to save it all for yourself but to impress your date, try your best to share.
Thai Bites
You and your date can choose between a choice of shrimp or chicken tossed in sweet Thai chili sauce and served with crunchy Asian noodles, carrots, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Bandera Pizza Bread
When the main meal options are so plentiful like they are at Boston Pizza, you may just consider a meal inspired starter. The Bandera Pizza bread is made for two. Baked with traditional pizza bread and spiced with Italian herbs and fresh mozzarella and parmesan, this dish is hard to resist. This starter is served with a Santa Fe Ranch dip, but you can always add another dip like extra pizza sauce or a Creamy Garlic dip.
BP’s Classic Nacho’s
Our classic nachos are one of our most popular dishes, and it’s no surprise. This generous serving of hand-cut tortilla chips are topped with cheddar, pizza mozzarella, green peppers, black olives, jalapeño peppers, tomatoes and green onions. For extra tastiness, the nachos are served with salsa made with fresh tomatoes, sour cream, plus your choice of protein like BBQ chicken, spicy chicken, or seasoned ground beef.
Meals To Share
Keeping your hands to yourself on a date is hard when you like the other person so much. But it becomes considerably harder when you’re dying to try a bite of their dish. Choose your mains together and ask for side plates so that you can share both dishes and maybe feed one another a bite or two.
Pizza and Pasta
We are forever grateful to the Italian’s for creating two of our favorite things: pizza and pasta. Our go-to pairings made for sharing are the Spicy Perogy with Jambalaya Fettuccini and the Meateor with Pesto Chicken Penne.
All our pizzas and pastas can be customized as well, you get to choose everything from your crust type to toppings and noodle type and sauce.
Salmon or Honey Dill Chicken Power Bowls
For healthier taste options bursting with flavor, our hearty Power Bowls are bursting with citrus notes and veggies cooked to perfection. Your protein of choice is cooked over a warm quinoa and rice blend. Popping with colour, the bowl features dark green spinach, bright cherry red tomatoes, guacamole, beets, carrots, cucumbers, and roasted peppers. Pair this bowl with our Pineapple Beet And Goat Cheese Salad that’s served with a balsamic dressing and topped with slivered almonds.
Desserts For Two
We have the perfect desserts in just the right portion size for date night to share. Always end a date on a sweet note. Did you know that research shows that ordering dessert can make you more attractive to the other person? So check out these two of our favorite picks:
Chocolate Explosion
A staple of Boston Pizza, you’ll need two forks for this one! Creamy chocolate mousse with chunks of cheesecake, caramel, toffee, pecans, and almonds on a chocolate crust.
Chocolate Brownie Addiction
Delectable warm chocolate brownie topped with vanilla ice cream and drizzled with caramel and chocolate sauces.
Boston Pizza Clifton Hill
Located in the heart of Clifton Hill, Boston Pizza offers Canada’s best in casual dining and sports bar action. Our multifaceted entertainment complex is also adjacent to Niagara’s top bowling centre, Strike Game Zone, and the massive Great Canadian Midway!
Winter in Niagara Falls provides us some really beautiful photo opportunities, despite the cold.
There are plenty of breathtaking winter vistas in Niagara Falls, and they’re just amazing when shared with someone special. With the wonderful winter weather fast approaching, we have shared some of the best romantic photo opportunities in the Falls.
Get inspired by exploring our list below and find the best sites to capture your own Niagara Falls winter imagery:
#1 The Horseshoe Falls
At the edge of the Horseshoe Falls you’ll find the world famous Table Rock, where 2,800 cubic meters of water crash down to the base of the Falls below. Its a front-row view of the majestic Niagara Falls. It has many stunning lookout points that place you mere yards away from the thundering Horseshoe Falls.
#2 Niagara Falls Illumination
Every evening beginning at dusk the Falls are lit in the colours of the rainbow – don’t miss the unmatched beauty of the Falls at night! The illumination of Niagara Falls was first made permanent in 1925, but currently uses the latest LED technology to light the Horseshoe and American Falls. This lighting provides high impact brightness and a wide range of colours allowing for a full palette of colour combinations!
#3 Dufferin Islands
Take a drive (or walk!) through Niagara’s hidden gem for the season. Dufferin Islands features 10 acres of serenity – a quiet, secluded park containing several small islands connected by small bridges and footpaths. Come here for a magical experience around winter-time with the one you love.
#4 Niagara Parkway
The Niagara Parkway follows the Niagara River from Fort Erie and ends in Niagara-on-the-Lake. On your way through this winding stretch of land, be sure to bring out your camera and capture all the gorgeous Winter scenes along the way. From the Falls to the Niagara Whirlpool to Fort George, there is so many romantic views along the way.
#5 Niagara-on-the-Lake
For “old-time” romance, head into Niagara-on-the-Lake to experience timeless history in a vintage setting. Winter sees pastoral country side and a decked out downtown adorned in lights and decorations, and of course, visiting quaint shops, and staying at an upscale luxury hotel on Queen Street.
#6 Queenston Park
Standing 185 feet high, is Brock’s Monument located in Queenston Park. This structure was dedicated to Major General Sir Isaac Brock, one of Canada’s heroes of the War of 1812. On a Winter’s day, not only will you capture beauty, but a piece of history as well.
#7 Table Rock
The Table Rock Complex overlooks the Horseshoe Falls, and has fabulous lookout points that place you mere yards away from the thundering Horseshoe Falls. The complex is a popular location to capture amazing Winter shots day or night!
#8 Niagara Falls State Park
For our American friends, Niagara Falls New York Offers some stunning winter views at their State Park! Its the place to be for natural beauty, thrilling adventures and awe-inspiring fun. Majestic snowfall and ice have coated this area and created a must-see spectacle.
Gear up for an exciting PA Day on Friday, January 19th, 2024, as elementary schools in the Niagara region take a break. Don’t fret about idle moments because we’ve got a fantastic lineup of PA Day Activities for everyone to enjoy! Get ready to explore our top recommendations for a day filled with fun and adventure.
Embark on Family Fun: Discover Clifton Hill’s Wonderland for Kids!
In the vibrant heart of Niagara Falls lies a popular place for families – Clifton Hill. A haven where every corner is crafted to delight kids and ensure that your family adventure is nothing short of spectacular. Forget about the weather dictating your fun in Niagara Falls because we have curated an exciting list of activities that promise joy, regardless of rain or shine.
Strike Game Zone!
There’s no better way to have your kids release some pent up energy than by taking them to the Strike Game Zone. It’s the place to go for a bounty of midway and arcade games.
Here you’ll find 14 full size 10 pin bowling lanes, a high-def audio/visual system, intelligent LED lane lighting and touch screen monitors for easy, automated scoring. Plus, with special bumper-rails that can be raised or lowered for each player, kids and novice bowlers don’t have to throw gutter balls.
After bowling, you can stick around to enjoy high-tech arcade games, and racing simulators.
More Clifton Hill Fun!
Immerse yourself in the wonders of our top museums, attractions, and amusements, guaranteeing a diverse range of indoor entertainment options in the popular Niagara Region. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through Clifton Hill, where every moment is tailored to make family memories that last a lifetime.
Movieland MuseumFallsview WaterparkStrike Game Zone
Niagara SkyWheelBird KingdomWizards Golf
Zombie AttackRipley’s MuseumGreg Frewin Theatre
Restaurants
Boston Pizza
Kelsey’s
Retail
Canada Trading Company
Fudge Factory
City of NIagara Falls Activities at MacBain Community Centre
7150 Montrose Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2H 3N3 | (905) 356-7521
January 19th PD Day Programming
Join us as we expand our programming for all ages to provide safe family fun across the City!
Crazy Clay Creations
Join for a hands on art workshop led by the Niagara Falls Art Gallery at the MacBain Centre! Participants will be guided through the creation of their very creation made out of clay. The only thing participants need to bring is their imagination!
Have some fun at the library on your day off from school! Board games, crafts, obstacle challenges.. who knows what we’ll do!
Day Passes: Get access to all the great drop in programs, including the pool and indoor play structure, for only $10 per child / $15 per adult / $25 per family.
Niagara Falls History Museum
PD Day: Mad Science
January 19, 2024 Shows at 11am & 1pm
$5 or free for members
Get ready to ignite the curiosity in your budding scientists! Join us for the Science Show, a journey that introduces your little ones to the fundamental realms of Chemistry, Physics, and Biology. Engaging experiments curated from the vast spectrum of science will show kids that, no matter the field, the essence of science lies in questioning the world around us.
Following the show, dive into the Museum galleries and embark on an exhilarating scavenger hunt, adding an extra layer of discovery to your scientific exploration.
Please note that pre-registration is essential. For safety, children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and all attendees, including adults, must secure a ticket to join this enlightening adventure. Let the scientific wonders unfold!
526 Regent Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0, Canada
This PA Day, head to the “Ice Rink” at The Gardens at Pillar & Post and enjoy the lovely grounds, skate on a 120 by 60 ice rink, and experience The OutPost’s trademark food and beverage offerings.
The skating rink is open to the general public and hotel guests of Vintage Hotels and Niagara’s Finest Hotels. The rink is available for skating, gliding, and having fun.
Please keep in mind that, depending on ice conditions and weather, the rink will be closed for cleaning at various points during the day, normally around 3:00 p.m. Cleaning time is about 30 minutes.
The Gardens offers skate rentals. Skate rentals are provided for $5.00 at The OutPost; however, rentals are limited, and visitors to The Gardens are advised to bring their own skates. Helmets are mandatory for all skaters under the age of 12, and helmet rentals are free.
Discover the Magic of the Cyclamen Display at the Floral Showhouse
Get ready to step into a botanical wonder as the Cyclamen Display makes its grand return to the Floral Showhouse, captivating visitors from January 13 to March 3, 2024. Brace yourself to bid farewell to winter blues and embrace the burst of colors, featuring cyclamen flowers in stunning shades of burgundy, pink, and magenta, promising to turn the chill of the season into a warm and joyful spectacle.
Event Details: Date: January 13, 2024, to March 3, 2024 Location: Floral Showhouse, Niagara Falls
Escape the Winter Blues: Immerse yourself in a visual odyssey through the enchanting North and Centre Houses, where the Cyclamen Display takes center stage. After a three-year hiatus, this event is back to mesmerize your senses, offering a picturesque escape from the frosty winter outside. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the delicate beauty of cyclamen flowers in all their glory!
Thursday, January 18th 2024 through Sunday, January 21st 2024
Prepare to groove down the lanes of nostalgia at our sensational 70’s Disco Dance Extravaganza! It’s a funky fiesta that thrusts you right into the heart of the disco era, spotlighting the timeless hits of Abba, The Bee Gees, Village People, and beyond! Envision glittering dance floors, infectious beats, and an irresistible temptation to showcase your most fabulous disco moves. Let’s boogie!
Embark on a Winter Bird Adventure at Heartland Forest!
Date: Jan 19 2024 Time: 9:30am – 11:30am
Join us at Heartland Forest for an exciting exploration of the enchanting realm of Winter Birds. Gather the whole family for an inspiring experience that includes creating your very own bird feeder to take home! During your visit, venture on a brief self-guided hike through our protected forest—challenge yourselves to spot as many birds as possible! Wander through our treehouse and marvel at lifelike models showcasing our local feathered friends.
Tickets are required per child, and adults accompanying children can attend for free. Once you’ve snagged your tickets, feel free to drop in anytime between 9:30 and 11:00. Let the avian adventure begin!
Niagara Falls Public Library: 4848 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls, Ontario L2E 4C5, Canada
Celebrate your day off from school with a burst of excitement at PD Day Drop-In Fun in the vibrant atmosphere of Victoria Avenue Library!
From 10:00 am to 11:30 am on Friday, January 19, 2024, the Children’s Story Garden transforms into a hub of joy and creativity. Join us for a mix of board games, crafts, and obstacle challenges – the perfect recipe for a day of fun. Geared towards children of all ages, this event promises an energetic and engaging experience for families.
The natural beauty of the Falls is wonderful to experience during the winter season. The frozen Falls hangs over the peak like giant sparkling chandeliers glistening in the sunlight. There are many vantage points to take in the view, including the Niagara Skywheel, which is perched high above the Niagara river gorge.
Sitting at a height of 170 feet, the wheel is just over 3 feet taller then the Falls. You will be amazed at the exceptional bird’s eye view of not only the grandeur of Niagara Falls, but also the surrounding landscape as well! If you arrive after dusk, don’t miss the opportunity to see the Falls illuminated. Click here for the current: Niagara Falls illumination schedule.
Below are a number of stunning videos showcasing the Niagara Falls frozen phenomenon. Enjoy watching and get inspired to visit in-person this winter.
Drone Footage Of Frozen Niagara Falls | NBC Nightly News
The ice encasing the Niagara Falls, which has drawn in visitors from all over, isn’t expected to melt entirely until May. Drone footage captures this rare and beautiful occurrence.
Will Gadd’s Historic Climb Up Frozen Niagara Falls
Professional climber and one of National Geographic’s Adventurers of the Year, Will Gadd, took ice climbing to new heights by being the first person ever to ascend the frozen sections of the world’s largest flowing waterfall, Niagara Falls. Take an inside look at the journey behind Gadd’s historic first ascent.
Niagara Falls Frozen Solid (1937)
“NIAGARA FALLS FROZEN SOLID – Mighty cataract stilled by winter’s icy grip.” Niagara Falls United States of America (USA) / Canada. Succession of shots of the frozen Niagara river and Niagara Falls – people looking at frozen river. Houses around with people around. Several men working near the waterfall. They are on some sort of scaffolding – waterfall in background.
Frozen Niagara Falls: Deep Freeze Creates Winter Beauty
ABC News’ Gio Benitez reports from the tourist spot that looks more like a winter wonderland.
Frozen Niagara Falls – Winter 2021
Horseshoe Falls in Ontario, Canada
WEB EXTRA: Rainbow Over Partially Frozen Niagara Falls
Parts of Niagara Falls were covered in ice after weeks of cold weather. People visiting the New York side of the falls also caught a glimpse of this rainbow while snapping photos Sunday (2/21).
Niagara Falls USA Frozen Falls Winter 2018
Niagara Falls State Park, USA has transformed into a winter wonderland. Majestic snowfall and ice have coated the region and created a must-see spectacle. Visuals Courtesy of Rolando “Ro” Rosado
Niagara Falls becomes a ‘winter wonderland’ – BBC News
The world-famous waterfall is transformed into a winter wonderland as a cold snap presents shivering tourists with breathtaking views.
Frequently Asked Questions about Frozen Niagara Falls
Can Niagara Falls actually freeze?
A: While the entire falls doesn’t freeze, the breathtaking phenomenon known as “Frozen Niagara Falls” occurs during extremely cold temperatures, creating stunning ice formations around the Falls.
How cold does it need to be for the falls to freeze?
A: The temperature needs to consistently remain below freezing for an extended period. Usually, when the air temperature is well below freezing, and the mist from the Falls creates icy layers.
Does the entire Falls freeze solid?
A: No, the entire falls doesn’t freeze solid. Certain sections and features, like the surrounding cliffs and rocks, can accumulate ice, creating a mesmerizing winter spectacle.
Can you still see water flowing during the freeze?
A: Yes, water continues to flow beneath the ice formations, even during the freeze. The ice builds up around the Falls, forming spectacular shapes and patterns.
How often does Frozen Niagara Falls occur?
A: It’s not an annual occurrence but happens during particularly cold winters. The frequency depends on the severity of the winter temperatures.
Is it safe to visit during the frozen period?
A: Visiting during the frozen period can be safe, but it’s essential to dress warmly and be cautious of icy surfaces. Follow safety guidelines and check weather conditions before your visit.
What is the best time to witness Frozen Niagara Falls?
A: The best time is usually during the coldest winter months, typically January and February, when prolonged sub-zero temperatures are more likely.
Are there any special events during the frozen period?
A: Occasionally, special events or festivals may coincide with Frozen Niagara Falls, featuring activities and celebrations to enjoy the unique winter spectacle.
Can you take boat tours during the freeze?
A: Boat tours are typically suspended during the frozen period for safety reasons. However, there are various viewpoints and platforms to observe the frozen beauty.
Q: How long does the frozen phenomenon last?
A: The duration varies each year and depends on weather conditions. It can last for several weeks or just a brief period, so timing is key for witnessing this enchanting spectacle.
With the temperatures falling well below the freezing mark, the Falls and its surroundings become a Winter Wonderland. While the Falls itself will not likely freeze over, everything around it will acquire a thick coating of ice. The mist coming off the Falls progressively adds layers of water that freezes onto the surroundings, creating massive icicles and making everything look like its under glass. Below are a number of stunning images showcasing the Niagara Falls frozen phenomenon.
A good time to view Niagara Falls Frozen is when the weather warms up and the ice starts to melt. This process creates a beautiful scene of clean and clear ice formations along with a huge volumes of water flowing over the edge of each rock face. Always use caution when hiking in or around these areas during winter as moisture and ice can make for slippery conditions, large icicles can fall from above and the rivers are moving twice the volume during thaw periods.
Canadian Horseshoe Falls
Behind the Falls
SkyWheel Views
American Falls
American and Canadian Falls
Historic Frozen Falls
More Magical Niagara Water Falls to See During Winter!
The Horseshoe, Bridal Veil and American Falls aren’t the only waterfalls to see in Niagara during the winter season. Do you enjoy hiking? Do you like waterfalls? We’ve compiled a list of 7 amazing waterfalls to see in Niagara for the adventurer and the outdoor lover.
Vintage Niagara Falls Winter Activities
The Niagara Falls Frozen phenomena has been a winter tradition for over 100 years! Way back then Niagara Falls would freeze over enough to create an ice bridge (approximately 30-100 feet deep) and some very brave people would walk out onto the ice and travel from one side to the other. In the early 1900’s concessionaires would even drag huts and shanties made of wood onto the bridge to sell tea, coffee, food, souvenirs and liquor! Click here to learn more history and enjoy this stunning collection of vintage Niagara Falls frozen photographs.
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