7 Best Niagara Falls Winter Tours 2023
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Niagara Falls is a popular tourist destination all year round, but there’s something truly magical about experiencing the falls in the wintertime. The cold temperatures and snowfall add an extra layer of beauty to this natural wonder.
In this post, we’ll be highlighting some of the best Niagara Falls winter tours you can take while visiting this amazing area. From boat tours to helicopter rides, we’ve got you covered. So bundle up and get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Best Niagara Falls Winter Sightseeing Tours
Don’t have time to read the whole article? Niagara Falls in One Day: Deluxe Sightseeing Tour of American and Canadian Sides is the best Niagara Falls winter tour, with 3,400+ stellar reviews!
If you’d rather explore all your options, there are 6 more tours on this list, and they all have perfect or near-perfect 5 Star ratings.
Niagara Falls is a haven for tourists, with everything from boat tours to helicopter tours, and wine tours, as well as a variety of attractions — so you really can’t go wrong with anything featured here. In short, we have vetted these tours, so you don’t have to.
Without further ado, let’s get to this carefully curated list of the best Niagara Falls winter tours, so you can book your tour already!
1. Niagara Falls Canada Tour + Helicopter Ride and Skylon Tower Lunch
This top-rated tour of Niagara Falls, Canada gives visitors the opportunity to view the mighty falls from several exciting vantage points. With the convenience of free pick-up anywhere in Niagara Falls, as well as the comfort of a small group, this incredible tour really is a must-do if you are visiting the area.
⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5-6 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
Your day starts with a comprehensive tour of the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. Your experienced guide will tell you about the history, fun facts, stories, and personal experiences related to this amazing region.
Since the groups are small and limited to 7 guests, the experience will be quite personalized. You will drive by some of the many notable landmarks in the region like the Floral Clock, Niagara Scow, and generating stations, as well as have the opportunity to explore the Dufferin Islands.
Next, take a helicopter ride above the falls for a perspective that few people get to enjoy. Your birds-eye view of both the Horseshoe Falls and the American Falls is sure to be a moment you won’t soon forget.
Our tour guide was amazing! It was so relaxing to have him drive us around, skip the lines, & manage each adventure for us! We loved seeing the falls from varying views!
— Jenny_F (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Then, head below and behind the Horseshoe Falls where you get to experience its true power as one-fifth of the world’s freshwater crashes down to the basin below. “Journey Behind the Falls” takes you down 125 ft. by elevator, where a short tunnel gives access to two outdoor observation decks and two portals located directly behind the Falls.
You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a casual lunch in the Revolving Dining Room at the Skylon Tower. While you eat, you can savour the incredible views of the Falls from your table.
Please note: Niagara Falls Canada Tour + Helicopter Ride and Skylon Tower Lunch is available all year round. From May to November a Hornblower cruise is included in this excursion. During the winter months, however, alternate excursions will be substituted for the boat ride.
2. Niagara Falls in One Day: Deluxe Sightseeing Tour of American and Canadian Sides
Get the full Niagara Falls experience from both sides of the border on this deluxe tour. Visit all the must-see Niagara Falls attractions, from the Journey Behind the Falls adventure to the exciting Cave Gorge Trip & World Changed Here Pavilion, along with a comprehensive tour of both sides of the Falls.
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
All attraction and admission fees, plus hotel transfers and road tolls are included. Please keep in mind, everyone participating in this tour must have appropriate documentation to enter the United States and Canada.
After being picked up from the meeting area, passengers will enjoy visiting attractions on both sides of Niagara Falls. Your expert guide will provide history, fun facts and personal experiences, as you travel throughout the area.
Highly recommend this tour as we were able to cover a lot of points of interest in a single day! It was nice to not worry about parking, border crossings, and navigating the city!! We could simply enjoy the sightseeing experience!! We had a blast!!!
— Sherilyn_R (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
You will drive by some of the many notable landmarks in the region like the Floral Clock, Niagara Scow, Niagara Gorge, Goat Island, Prospect Point Park observation tower overlooking the falls, and Queen Victoria Park, as well as have the opportunity to explore the Table Rock Welcome Center and Niagara Falls State Park.
While on the Canadian side, you will also have the opportunity to go up the Skylon Tower to the observation deck. From there, you will have breathtaking views of both the Horseshoe and American Falls.
Please note Niagara Falls in One Day: Deluxe Sightseeing Tour of American and Canadian Sides is available all year round. From May to November a Maid of the Mist cruise is included in this excursion. During the winter months, however, alternate excursions will be substituted for the boat ride.
3. Best of Niagara Falls Canada Tour
This top-rated small group tour lets you discover the best of Niagara Falls. Led by an experienced guide, visit some of the area’s top attractions.
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-5 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
After a hotel pickup, head to the heart of Niagara Falls with a knowledgeable guide, who will provide a detailed tour of the Canadian side of the falls, offering stories, history and fun facts along the way.
The tour starts with an exciting ride up to the observation deck of the Skylon Tower. At 520 feet in the air, you can enjoy the incredible view of the Niagara River and all three waterfalls — the American, Bridal Veil and Horseshoe Falls.
Next, you will enjoy spending some time at the brink of the Horseshoe Falls. This is arguably the most popular spot to see the falls rolling over the cliff edge. It’s also a great spot to get that Instagram-worthy photo or selfie.
Tour guide was amazing and each adventure was fantastic! One of our best tours and we have done a lot!
— Kathy_B (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
One of the best parts of the Best of Niagara Falls Canada Tour is when you get to experience the Journey Behind the Falls attraction. This is where the sound is like thunder and the view is unparalleled.
Head behind and below the Horseshoe Falls where you can feel the rumble as the water falls from 13 stories above — dropping over 700,000 gallons over the edge every second at 40 miles per hour.
The Butterfly Conservatory and Niagara Fury are also added to this tour package during the winter and spring months. Afterward, continue to the Whirlpool Rapids, the largest series of standing waves in North America, for a whitewater walk and a look at the Niagara Parks Floral Clock.
This tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as comfortable transportation in a minivan for up to seven guests. Food and drinks are not included in this tour. However, free time is provided if you wish to purchase something at the various attractions.
4. Niagara Falls Grand Helicopter Adventure
One of our favourite ways to see Niagara Falls is from the sky! And it’s a view of the Falls that very few people get to experience.
⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 20 Mins | ✔️ BOOK NOW
Your memorable Niagara Falls helicopter tour begins at the Niagara District Airport, located in the heart of the world-famous Niagara Region. Here, your expert pilot will lift off to the skies in a state-of-the-art rotorcraft for an exciting journey over Niagara Falls.
We guarantee it will take your breath away as you soar directly over the Falls. The helicopter will then make a second pass over the falls so that passengers on the other side of the aircraft can get the same view.
Take off was a rush, the ride along the Niagara River was amazing. The falls and the other attractions were incredible to see from 2500 feet. Even the landing was memorable.
— Daniel_B (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Aside from seeing the majesty of the falls, your Niagara Falls Grand Helicopter Adventure will also take you high above several other historic landmarks and the region’s famous wine region. From Niagara on the Lake Heritage District and Brock’s Monument National Historic Site in Queenston to the Sir Ada Beck II Generating Station, there will be plenty of opportunities to take some incredible aerial photos of the Niagara Region.
The total flight time is approximately 20 minutes. A minimum of 2 people are needed for the flight to take place and there is a maximum of 6 guests per flight.
5. Niagara Falls: Scenic Airplane Tour with Chocolate & Champagne
Hop aboard an airplane and enjoy a birds-eye view of the most famous sites in the Niagara Region. Enjoy 30 minutes of air time accompanied by complementary champagne and chocolate.
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 30 mins | ✔️ BOOK NOW
Fly through the clouds and see 12 historical and geological marvels in the Niagara Region. Plug in your audio guide to learn all about the sites below, including Niagara Falls, Lake Ontario, and the quaint Canadian city of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
The adventure begins at Niagara District Airport. There you will meet your professional pilot before you board a Cessna airplane to enjoy the longest “air time” available in Niagara.
With 25 years of experience, your pilot will ensure that all passengers get the perfect 360-degree views. Plug in your audio guide, sit back and enjoy the views as your 30-minute flight begins.
Excellent experience! Terrific pilot! Great commentary from a recording along the way! Views were spectacular!
— Verified Traveller (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Fly over the centuries-old Fort George and Fort Niagara, and admire Queenston Heights Park from above. Get that Instagram-worthy photo of the turbulent Niagara whirlpool and capture the power of this breathtaking natural wonder.
During the flight, you will learn about local landmarks such as the Welland Canal, Fort Niagara, and the Hydro Power Dams while enjoying a wonderful glass of champagne and some incredible local chocolates.
The tour will end at Niagara District Airport. Keep in mind, this tour is limited to three passengers.
6. Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto Including Attraction and Winery Stop
Experience the beauty of Niagara Falls with ease on a full-day guided tour from Toronto. A knowledgeable guide will take you to the top sights, including a wine tasting in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Plus, unlike other tours with strict itineraries, you’ll have free time to explore on your own.
⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
Begin your Niagara Falls adventure as soon as you step onto the comfortable, climate-controlled bus at your Toronto hotel. Your guide will take you on a journey that will captivate your senses and create memories to last a lifetime.
Listen to engaging and informative commentary on board, and take breaks for photo opportunities. Visit Niagara-on-the-Lake to explore, shop and taste wines at a winery. Continue to Niagara Falls and have free time to experience the natural wonder.
The tour allows for a couple of hours of free time for you to explore the Table Rock Welcome Centre. Be sure to grab those Instagram-worthy photos at the brink of the Falls and be mesmerized by the sheer beauty of the water as it hurtles over the edge and cascades in the basin below.
Excellent service. Amazing place. Knowledgeable guide. All round brilliant day. If you’re looking for a full day’s experience, look no further.
— Mark_J (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Next, head behind and below the Horseshoe Falls at the Journey Behind the Falls attraction. There you can feel the rumble as the water falls from 13 stories above — dropping over 700,000 gallons over the edge every second at 40 miles per hour.
The last stop of the day will be in the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. There you will have a little bit of time to stroll through town and perhaps do a little shopping before heading to a winery for your tasting.
7. Toronto: Small-Group Niagara Falls Winter Tour with Attractions
Experience the beauty of Niagara Falls with ease on a full-day guided tour from Toronto. A knowledgeable guide will take you to the top sights including the Horseshoe Falls and the Clifton Hill strip.
In the winter season, a special itinerary is created that includes the option of visiting one or both of the Journey Behind the Falls or Niagara’s Fury attractions. Your itinerary also includes 4 hours of free time for you to explore the area on your own.
⭐️ RATING: 4.6 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
Downtown Toronto pickup is from 7:45 – 8:20 AM. The tour picks up from 11 locations which are around 5 minutes walking distance from most Downtown Toronto hotels. Mississauga pickup is available at 8:45 AM.
As we mentioned, this tour gives you 4 hours of free time in Niagara Falls. That is more than any other tour! Use your time for sightseeing at the Horseshoe Falls, visiting various attractions, exploring the Clifton Hill strip and of course, having lunch.
There are a ton of kitschy shops, interesting restaurants and activities on Clifton Hill. These include the Niagara SkyWheel, Movieland Wax Museum (Fri – Sun), Ripley’s Believe it Or Not (Sat and Sun), Dinosaur Adventure Golf and the Great Canadian Midway.
In the winter, the Small-Group Niagara Falls Winter Tour with Attractions includes the options of one or both of the Journey Behind the Falls or Niagara’s Fury attractions.
Amazing experience going to Niagara Falls! Such a friendly tour guide! Really enjoyed seeing the sites and we had plenty of time at the falls. Great maple tastings at the next stop. Would highly recommend.
— Megan_P (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Experience the power of Niagara Falls up close by taking a tour of the 130-year-old tunnels beneath the bedrock of the Falls. Journey Behind the Falls offers a unique, once-in-a-lifetime view of one-fifth of the world’s freshwater cascading down in front of you.
Explore the ancient story of Niagara Falls through a multi-sensory simulation of the last Ice Age with Niagara’s Fury. Inside the 4D motion theatre, you’ll feel the temperature drop, feel the mist and see a snowfall, all while surrounded by stunning visuals of the Niagara River.
After your free time, the tour will resume with a drive past several iconic Niagara locations. Learn about how the incredible power of the Niagara Falls waterfalls is converted into energy as you drive past the Niagara Parks Power Station.
Stop for photos and history at the Niagara Whirlpool. These naturally occurring whirlpools on the Niagara River were generated around 4,200 years ago due to upstream erosion on the Niagara Escarpment.
The last stop of the tour is Maple Leaf Place. Here, you can freshen up before the drive back to Toronto. Take the time to do a little shopping, sample locally sourced maple syrup, or purchase Canadian-inspired treats like homemade fudge, poutine, maple beer or Niagara’s famous icewine.
Return back to your original location (or a different one) in Mississauga around 4 – 4:30 PM and Toronto around 5-5:30 PM (depending on traffic).
FAQs – Best Niagara Falls Winter Tours
Niagara Falls is incredible to visit all year long. In fact, Niagara Falls is even more breathtaking in the winter. From the snow-covered trees, and the sparkle of the ice on the partially frozen American Falls, it really is a sight to behold.
No. The Falls do not freeze over completely during the winter. There has only been one case noted on Niagara Parks’ records where the Falls froze over completely.
This was back in 1848 and was due to sub-zero temperatures and an accumulation of ice stopping the flow of water. Since then, barriers have been put in place to ensure that this can no longer happen.
Yes. The Journey Behind the Falls remains open all year long. If you are looking for a new way to see the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, you will definitely not be disappointed during this adventure.
No. The boats do not go behind the Falls. The Maid of the Mist boats will take you from the docks, past the base of the American Falls, then into the basin of the magnificent Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
The views of the Falls during this excursion are absolutely breathtaking and one-of-a-kind! Just prepare to get a little wet!
Yes! Most wineries here in Niagara are OPEN all year round. And although many have reduced hours, and may not offer the same services (like tours or outdoor patios), they are still fun to visit. In fact, some even offer special winter activities, like a full outdoor skating rink at Wayne Gretzky’s Winery, that are a ton of fun and make the trip to Niagara worthwhile.
It is best to dress warmly and in layers when visiting Niagara Falls in winter. Boots, hats, gloves, and a waterproof jacket are all recommended if you are planning to venture behind the Falls, or head out on one of the cruises.
Final Thoughts on the Best Niagara Falls Winter Tours
Niagara Falls, Ontario is a spectacular destination to visit during the winter months. With so many Niagara Falls winter tours available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to experience the falls up close on a boat tour or take in the breathtaking views from above on a helicopter ride, there’s no shortage of winter adventures to be had in Niagara Falls. We hope this post has inspired you to book your winter trip to Niagara Falls and make memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to dress warmly and have a great time!
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