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Ever wondered what it’s like to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Niagara Falls? It is not too early to start planning your New Year’s Eve in Canada. I have spent two New Year’s Eve’s in the city and thought I’d share what you need to know about spending New Year’s Eve in Niagara Falls.
The falls are just spectacular during the winter as the ice starts to form at the base. They are also lit up during the season which makes for some spectacular shots.
New Year’s Eve Niagara Falls
There is a lot to do and see in Niagara Falls, however, on New Year’s Eve everything is magnified. It is a busy night in this Canadian city so be prepared for crowds. I put together some tips on what to do in Niagara Falls during New Year’s Eve.
Read more: Last Minute New Years Eve in Niagara Falls on the cheap
Niagara Falls Sky Wheel
If you want some breathtaking views of the falls all lit up at night be sure to take a ride on the sky wheel. The little pods on the gigantic Ferris wheel are heated and will keep you warm for the 10-minute ride.
Winter Festival of Lights
Each year Niagara Falls showcases light installations in the park across from the American Falls. These light displays feature Disney characters, fun themes and are fun for the whole family.
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Niagara Falls New Year’s Eve Party
If you have warm winter gear, and you want to brave the possibility of a frigid night to enjoy some great music then jump into the crowd at the New Year’s Eve party. Each year the party brings in some big musicians like Kieth Urban, Tom Cochran and Serena Ryder.
Read more: Visiting Niagara Falls with a Niagara Parks Adventure Pass
Niagara Falls Fireworks Displays
On New Year’s Eve, there are two fireworks displays. One is at 9 PM and the second is at midnight. If you are looking to get a great view of the fireworks, then this will be helpful advice. The first show is mainly over the American falls and is relatively short.
My first year attending the NYE in Niagara Falls, the midnight show was longer and appeared both over the American and Canadian falls. However, recently the second show was the same as the first show at 9 PM which was very disappointing when you are waiting out in the cold.
Read more: Last Minute New Years Eve Niagara Falls – on the cheap
Where to Stay in Niagara Falls
If you choose your hotel wisely, you can stay toasty warm inside your hotel room and watch the fireworks. The Radisson Fallsview hotel offers a breathtaking view of the Canadian falls, but views are limited due to its location.
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We loved having a room overlooking the falls, as it was a short walk to view the fireworks, which meant we had a place to warm up at in between shows. It was also great not to fight with traffic as everyone tried to get out of the city at the same time.
Booking early is important when making New Year’s plans as the hotel prices on that night (especially for Fallsview rooms) will rise to $300-$500 per night. Take advantage of early booking to avoid disappointment.
Tips for Planning a Visit to Niagara Falls for New Years Eve
Accommodations
- Plan ahead, this is one of the most expensive nights of the year to stay in the city.
- Consider hotels in outlying areas like Welland, St. Catherines and Grimsby, or across the border to save money.
- Many hotels offer Fallsview rooms – but expect to pay a premium for this.
Getting to and From Niagara Falls
- Get into the city early. Some streets are closed off as the evening progresses.
- Expect to pay at least $20 for parking. The lot by the iMax/Skylon tower is very big and close to the Falls.
- Expect traffic to be gridlocked, especially after the fireworks show, there is limited access out of parking lots towards the highways. Also, note there may be Ride checks as you try to get out of the area.
Be Prepared for the Weather
- Expect it to be cold, colder by the falls. Dress in layers especially for toes and fingers.
- By the falls the Tim Hortons and neighbouring gift shop are the only places to warm up and there are often lineups to get in. Above there is a food court near the casino where you can also warm up.
- Fireworks shows are at 9 PM and Midnight
- Fireworks shoot off near the American Falls so find a spot in front and you should be ok.
- Consider watching the Fireworks from the Rainbow Bridge
I Would love to stay at the radisson falls view!!! Please pick us!!
This contest is closed. Stay tuned as we will have new giveaways in the future.
I would love to stay in Radisson Niagara Falls and see the view of the falls.
LOVE TO STAY AT NIAGARA FALLS.
Would love to stay at Radisson fallsview hotel on New years eve! I have never been to Niagara falls on New years eve.
I’d love to go to Ottawa next year, for the Canada Day celebrations!
I:d love to visit the RADISSON HOTEL & SUITES FALLSVIEW, ON – to see the falls. thanks
I would like to visit the Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview at Niagara Falls! I always admire it from the outside everytime I’m there and I was told it’s really nice and cozy.
A few years ago I saw that Toronto was named one of the best places to visit in the world. Since that time I have wanted to visit Toronto, but have not put a trip together yet.
I would love to visit the one in Toronto. I actually teach Canada in our middle school curriculum and I have always wanted to go. I want to be able to experience it so I can tell my students about it more in-depth.
I would love to visit Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview! I haven’t been to Niagara for a long time! Would love to visit with my hubby for a weekend getaway!
I would like to visit RADISSON HOTEL VANCOUVER AIRPORT.
I would love to visit the Radisson Hotel Saskatoon on a trip we make there.
I would love to stay at the Radisson Hotel Ottawa Parliament Hill! I have always wanted to visit the capital city and skate on the Rideau Canal. :)
Definitely the Radisson in Ottawa. I want to go spend time with my little brother!
I would love to stay at the Radisson Ottawa when we go and visit our daughter who recently moved there. But so many good choices. Thanks for the giveaway.
I would love to stay at The Radisson Admiral Hotel Toronto-Harbourfront.
I would love to stay at the Radisson Ottawa. I have never been to Ottawa and would love to explore the city with my family any time of year.
Anywhere that means I don’t have to make the bed is alright by me! A night at a Radisson would certainly work!
It’s been a long time since I’ve explored anywhere outside of Ontario. Quebec City and Vancouver sound like good choices I think!
I would love to go to Ottawa and stay at the Radisson Parliament Hill.
The Radison in Niagra. Thanks for the giveaway.
Would love to visit Calgary and stay at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center Calgary’
I would love to visit Vancouver and stay at the Radisson there! It looks beautiful!
Would love to stay at the Radisson Admiral Hotel Toronto – Harbourfront location. On Lake Ontario, and just a subway ride from the suburbs, it would be a wonderful *getaway* that is “so close…yet so far away….”
I would love to stay at the Radisson in Niagara Falls. :) Thanks
I would love to stay at Radisson Hotel & Conference Centre Calgary Airport
Interestingly there are no locations east of Ottawa. I would chose Niagara Falls Canada, a great place for family fun getaways.
I would really like to stay at the Radisson in Winnipeg! I have never been there before and think it would be fun to have a girls weekend away!
I would love to visit the one in Toronto.
I would like to visit the Radisson Hotel at Parliament Hill
I would love to go to the Radisson in Niagara Falls. I’ve always wanted to spend New Year’s Eve there.
I haven’t seen my grandparents in many years so I would enjoy a visit & stay at the Radisson Ottawa Parliament Hill!
I would love to go the one with the beautiful view in Fallsview, Niagara, ON.
I would like to visit Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview, ON.
I would like to visit the Radisson Hotel Vancouver and see friends!