Although summer is generally considered the “high season” for Niagara Falls tourism, autumn brings scores of visitors each year. Shorter lines at attractions, gorgeous fall colours, and festivals galore make this a prime destination for fall visitors. But is September, October, or November the right time for you to book your trip to Niagara? What types of events, weather, and attractions can you expect as the season wears on? Here’s what you need to know when planning an autumn trip to Niagara Falls.

Visiter les chutes du Niagara en septembre

Planning to visit Niagara Falls around the autumn equinox? You’re in luck. September is a popular month for visitors, and for good reason – crowds are smaller than in July and August, while the weather typically remains pleasant (though it is a bit cooler than in August, with a slight increase in rain). Late September is also a great time to enjoy a fair or festival in the greater Niagara region, including one of the biggest wine events of the year offering comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Most attractions are still open and tourists and locals can make the most out of shorter lines and less chaotic conditions.

What to wear: The first part of September may as well be summer – while the breeze and precipitation pick up somewhat, temperatures over 20 degrees Celsius (68 Fahrenheit) are common. A few cooler days and nippy nights do make layers advisable, but in most cases, lighter clothes will be just fine!

Les favoris de la saison et les événements spéciaux de la mi- à la fin septembre :

Arrêtez-vous à une foire d'automne sur votre chemin vers (ou hors de) la ville. Ancaster, Wainfleet, Binbrook, Fort Erie et West Niagara organisent tous des événements agricoles dynamiques en septembre.

Profitez des dernières semaines de la saison des terrasses dans l'un des nombreux restaurants et bars uniques de Niagara Falls.

Sortez sur l'eau - les files d'attente pour les légendaires croisières de Hornblower Niagara Cruises excursions en bateau ont tendance à se raccourcir vers la mi ou la fin septembre, et la pêche dans la rivière Niagara est à son apogée. Si vous aimez mettre les voiles, c'est le moment idéal pour visiter la région !

Treat your palate at the popular Grape and Wine Festival, which takes place on the last two weekends of September. Vendors from across the region take over Montebello Park with food and wine tastings. Most Niagara wineries also serve up special tours and food pairings for the occasion. 

If you want to elevate your evening experience, the Mighty Niagara Falls makes the perfect backdrop for a special night of wine tasting followed by the rare opportunity to light up the falls in a magical array of your own colors with Niagara at Night: Wine Tasting and Illumination Tower Experience. You will meet your local guide as the sun begins its descent over the falls. You will enjoy breathtaking views on the outdoor deck as you hear about historical figures who stood in the same spot. Sample four hand-picked wines, locally grown and produced alongside mouthwatering appetizers. The next stop is the Niagara Falls Illumination Tower where you will meet the veteran Light Master who will share amazing tales dating back to the first lighting in 1860. Taking control of the lighting system and seeing them come to life will take your breath away. You will spend an evening making memories of a lifetime.

Visiter les chutes du Niagara en octobre

Early October can be one of the most delightful times to visit Niagara Falls. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the Fall colours and be able to enjoy most of the area’s attractions before they close up for the season. Late October can be equally enjoyable; Niagara Falls is one of Canada’s Halloween hotspots, and there are many events and attractions leading up to October 31. Popular experiences like the Niagara Falls boat cruises and Journey Behind the Falls also remain open throughout the month.
What to wear: October is marked by temperate days and cool nights in Niagara, so bringing a sweater and a fall coat to layer up is a good idea. An umbrella or waterproof jacket is also worth packing, as it tends to rain a bit more frequently this time of year.

Favoris saisonniers et événements spéciaux en octobre :

Vivez l'Halloween à Niagara ! Les points forts locaux comprennent Manoir des hordesla plus grande attraction hantée du Canada (ouverte du 28 septembre au 1er novembre), le All Hallows Eve des Parcs du Niagara à Old Fort Erie, et une représentation annuelle en direct de Rocky Horror Picture Show Spectacle présenté par Oh Canada Eh.

Profitez de la saison des récoltes dans les nombreux stands de bord de route, marchés fermiers et restaurants de la région.

Profitez de certaines des files d'attente les plus courtes de l'année dans les attractions populaires de Niagara Falls. Les visiteurs du Hornblower d'automne nous disent que l'absence de foule et la facilité d'accès aux principaux sites touristiques compensent largement le temps plus froid d'octobre.

Be “wowed” by the autumn colours across Niagara. You don’t have to go far to see the gorgeous red, yellow, and orange tones across the region’s foliage – there are plenty of trees and views near Niagara Falls. Have a car and a few extra days? Ball’s Falls, wine-growing areas like Niagara-on-the-Lake, and parts of the Bruce Trail are all great spots to enjoy the scenery. 

Visiter les chutes du Niagara en novembre

Is it worth visiting Niagara Falls in November? We think so! While summer and early autumn are more popular times to visit the region, the legendary waterfalls are a beautiful sight at any time of year. Several attractions are still in operation, especially during the first half of the month. If you arrive after November 15, many seasonal sites may be closed; however, you can more than fill your schedule with the many holiday festivities that pepper the region.
What to wear: Pack a light winter jacket in case of light snowfall or an evening chill, especially later in the month. While temperatures are typically lower this time of year, they can reach as high as 10 or 15 degrees Celsius (50-60 f) in the heat of the day, so layers are advisable.

Favoris saisonniers et événements spéciaux en novembre :

Le site Festival d'hiver des lumières commence à la mi-novembre chaque année. Avec 8 kilomètres d'étalages magnifiques, le spectacle attire plus d'un million de visiteurs chaque année.

Profitez de dégustations de vins et de mets avec le Goûtez la saison les week-ends de novembre. Profitez d'accords étonnants avec des établissements vinicoles de toute la région sans avoir à affronter la foule de l'été !

Stay warm during your Niagara Falls boat cruise. Hornblower cruises typically run until mid-November, and the indoor viewing area makes it easy to enjoy this must-see attraction in any weather. 

Attractions incontournables de Niagara Falls

Il y a quelques attractions que vous devez voir à Niagara Falls en automne si vous visitez du côté canadien, contribuant ainsi à créer une expérience unique lors de votre exploration du parc. Vous trouverez ci-dessous quelques activités à ajouter à votre itinéraire lors de votre prochain voyage en automne.

Voyage derrière les chutes

Pour les jours d'automne où le temps est trop frais, pensez à faire une visite autoguidée derrière les chutes. Cette visite vous permet d'explorer les grottes derrière les chutes du Niagara, offrant des vues incroyables d'un point de vue différent.

A la fin de la circuit "Journey Behind the Fallsvous trouverez le pont d'observation pour une vue encore plus incroyable des chutes.

Visite en bateau de Voyage to the Falls

This is a must-do tour in Niagara Falls. Get up close as possible to the Falls on a boat tour with Niagara City Cruises.  

Si vous êtes du côté américain, des tours en jet boat sont également disponibles ! Ces balades en bateau sont un excellent moment pour toute la famille. Préparez-vous à vous mouiller !

Centrale électrique des parcs du Niagara

Le site Centrale électrique des parcs du Niagara est une autre option intéressante à explorer pendant les journées pluvieuses ou froides de l'automne. Cette centrale est une attraction plus récente qui offre une belle architecture romane, des artefacts, des expositions et des informations sur cette ancienne centrale électrique.

En explorant la centrale électrique, vous apprendrez comment les chutes ont contribué à la production d'électricité pendant une centaine d'années.

Devrais-je visiter les chutes du Niagara à l'automne ?

The truth is, there is no “bad” time to visit Niagara Falls. The natural wonder is majestic 365 days a year. As long as there is no fog or storm in your way, you should have no problem admiring the waterfalls whenever you arrive.
That said, the full experience of Niagara Falls (including getting up close with a boat tour) is only available during certain months of the year. But, even with that restriction, there are many months to choose from!  “Open” season for Niagara City Cruises continues through November (weather depending), so you can check off all the quintessential Niagara experiences even with a later autumn visit. 
Bottom line: Visiting Niagara Falls between late September and November is a one-of-a-kind experience: the fall colours, Halloween festivities, and harvest flavours make it an excellent choice for a cozy getaway. With a bit of planning, autumn isn’t just an excellent time to see Niagara Falls – it is one of the best!

FAQ :

Is October a Good Month to Visit the Niagara Falls?
Yes, Niagara Falls in October is a spectacular sight. During this month, there are fewer crowds so that you can enjoy the attractions for longer in a calmer environment. The weather is typically around 60F, so it’s not too hot or cold as you explore the park and the falls. It’s also the perfect time to explore the area, as many fall festivals occur nearby Niagara Falls this month.

Is Niagara Falls Pretty in the Fall?
Yes, Niagara Falls is incredibly beautiful during the fall. The changing leaves help create a dramatic contrast between the waterfalls and the landscape in Niagara Falls Park. There are also quite a few activities to do in the fall, making it an excellent time to visit.

When Is the Best Month to Go to Niagara Falls?
The best month to visit Niagara Falls depends on your trip intentions. If you’re looking for fun summer activities and don’t mind larger crowds, you’ll enjoy heading to Niagara Falls in summer during the peak season.

Si vous souhaitez explorer le parc sans les longues files d'attente et sans la chaleur de l'été, les voyages d'automne à Niagara Falls sont une excellente option. Les chutes du Niagara en septembre et octobre sont particulièrement agréables.

Do hotel rates drop in the fall in Niagara Falls?

Hotel prices are dependent upon your travel dates and prices for a 3-star hotel will average between $70-$100 USD a night and will increase around Canadian Thanksgiving in October and American Thanksgiving in November.

How Many Days Do You Need to See Niagara Falls?
There is so much to do in Niagara Falls and the surrounding area that a one-night stay won’t cut it. 2-3 nights is the optimal amount of time in Niagara Falls, as it will allow you to see the major attractions in the park. If you have a flexible timeline and can stay longer, that’s even more ideal as you’ll be able to check out the attractions nearby.

Are there special 2024 autumn events or activities at Niagara Falls?
Niagara Falls hosts various autumn events, including fall festivals and special tours that showcase the area’s beauty.

What should I pack for a trip to Niagara Falls in the fall?
Packing for autumn weather, including layers and rain gear, is advisable to comfortably enjoy the outdoor scenery and mist from the falls.

Is the Maid of the Mist boat tour available in the fall?
The Maid of the Mist typically operates until early November, weather permitting, offering a unique perspective of the falls.

Can I experience the fall colors from the Canadian and American sides?
Both sides of Niagara Falls offer spectacular views of the autumn foliage, with various vantage points and parks.

What wildlife can I see in Niagara Falls during the autumn?
Autumn is a great time to observe local wildlife, including migratory birds and other animals preparing for winter.

Are there scenic hiking trails to enjoy the fall foliage around Niagara Falls?
Yes, there are numerous trails offering beautiful views of the fall colors in and around the Niagara Falls area.

Si vous visitez les chutes du Niagara à l'automne, vous voudrez ajouter une journée pour découvrir les festivals amusants de la région.

Original post date: October 29, 2019