The Ultimate Guide to Winter Family Fun in Niagara Falls USA

Winter is prime time for exploring the best of Niagara County, with plenty of adventure and no crowds. Plan an action-packed, fun-filled winter getaway, taking in the magical icy vistas of the Falls and Niagara Falls State Park, and warm up with hot chocolate and a dip in an (indoor) heated pool. You’ll leave with memories and stories of one epic family vacation.

See Panoramic Views of the Falls

The Maid of the Mist might be safely tucked away in her winter home (don’t worry, the legendary attraction will be back in business come spring), but there are plenty of other ways to take in the Falls throughout the winter months. To see the splendor of the frosted Falls from a unique vantage point, take the elevator down to the base of the Cave of the Winds. Or visit the Observation Tower (weather permitting so be sure to check ahead) across the park (which offers free admission during the winter season), and marvel at a view that looks like it’s straight out of Disney’s Frozen.

Drink Hot Chocolate at Platter’s Chocolate Factory

Get a first-hand look at how they make their famous sponge candy at Platter’s Chocolate Factory located in the Wurlitzer Building in North Tonawanda. Be sure to look through the glass windows to witness the chocolate-making process, and don’t leave without ordering a signature, steaming-hot drink. Try the sponge candy latte, or go old-school with a classic hot chocolate before heading back out into the cold.

Build a Snowman in Niagara Falls State Park

The grassy areas that dot the 400-acre park are the perfect place to build a snowman and make a few snow angels to boot. The classic winter endeavor becomes even more iconic with a backdrop of one of nature’s most staggeringly impressive vistas — and the roar of the Falls makes a great soundtrack, too. Ever tried your hand (or, foot) at snowshoeing? Borrow pairs at the Cave of the Winds Pavilion and explore the park in true wintry fashion.

See the Colorful Illumination

As if the natural beauty here isn’t enough especially during the winter months, take in a colorful illuminations display nightly as the Falls are illuminated a rainbow of colors. Juxtaposed with the icy vista, it’s a scene you’ll never forget.

Burn Off Some Energy — Inside!

When it’s time to get out of the cold, there are numerous opportunities for family fun in the great indoors in Niagara Falls USA. Take a trip to the sea at the Aquarium of Niagara, where you’ll encounter rays, sharks, seals and more, as well as the ultimate winter animal: penguins! Afterward, head to the Niagara Climbing Center where kids (and parents!) can literally climb the walls.

Lunch in a Rainforest

While temps are hovering around freezing outside, take refuge in the middle of a balmy rainforest. The vibrant Rainforest Cafe offers kid-friendly fare and entertainment in the form of an 80-foot volcano, animatronic animals (the massive elephants are particularly impressive), and indoor thunderstorms. Don’t forget the dessert — the volcanic brownie dessert isn’t just for kids. (If the kids are a little older, try Hard Rock Cafe Niagara Falls USA, with its themed menu and extensive collection of music memorabilia.)

Stay, Swim and Splash

Book a room in the middle of all the action. The Sheraton Niagara Falls offers family suites, roomy enough for your whole crew, as well as an on-site arcade with 30+ games. More importantly though (at least to the kids and kids-at-heart among you) is the Reef Beach Club & Pool — the resort’s onsite, indoor pool. Relax at the colorful pool deck while the kids splash around and check out the shark and coral reef viewing tanks to check out sea life swimming nearby.