Niagara Falls, New York, offers visitors plenty of chances to get up close and personal with the thundering waterfalls that attract millions of visitors each year. The Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist has been taking people beneath the American and Horseshoe Falls for more than 150 years. Guests can also experience the rush by standing less than 20 feet from Bridal Veil Falls in the Cave of the Winds, or watch the American Falls cascade into the Niagara Gorge from the Observation Tower. Though the Falls may be the main event, Niagara Falls attractions also include Old Fort Niagara, a military stronghold built in 1726 that today houses artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. Flights to Niagara Falls land at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, about half an hour away from Niagara Falls State Park. A newly opened terminal at the Niagara Fall International Airport also offers limited service.

Niagara Falls is quickly becoming a year-round destination. The most popular time to visit is summer, when the weather is warm and schools are on vacation. Winter's cold temperatures tend to keep most travelers away, but low prices and new indoor attractions are boosting the number of visitors. Spring and fall can be an ideal time to go as they offer a quiet break from the summer crowds, and temperatures tend to be comfortable.

high season: June to August
low season: December to February
shoulder season: March to May, September to November

Weather Information

Niagara Falls experiences four seasons. Summer can be hot, with temperatures reaching into the low 80s. However, breezes and mist from the falls help cool things down. Winter can be cold and icy, with temperatures dipping below freezing. Spring and fall are fairly mild with temperature averages between the 40s and the low-70s.

Crowd Information

Niagara Falls gets very busy between June and August, especially during Independence Day celebrations.

Closure Information

Most hotels, shops, and attractions remain open throughout the year. However, several outdoor attractions close in the winter, especially those that tend to douse visitors with water such as the Maid of the Mist and Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours.

When to Save

The most expensive time to visit is summer, when hotels and airlines increase their prices to accommodate the rise in tourism. Winter prices are lower, because there is less demand for rooms and airfare as there is in summer.

Information provided by the Niagara Tourism & Convention Corporation