Cheapest Time to Go to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, has captivated visitors for centuries. The thundering torrents of water, the vibrant rainbow mist, and the sheer power of the falls create an unforgettable experience. While the allure of Niagara Falls is undeniable, many travelers worry about the cost of a trip to this iconic destination. However, with a little planning and flexibility, you can experience the magic of Niagara Falls without breaking the bank.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to plan a budget-friendly trip to Niagara Falls. From choosing the right time to visit to exploring free activities and maximizing your budget, we'll cover everything you need to know.

When to Visit for the best offers 

The lowest prices are offered during the low season which is spring and autumn, specifically April through May, and September through October. The downside is that the crowds are thinner, the hotel prices are cheaper, and the weather is still good in these months. 

Choosing the Right Side: Which one are you Canadian or American? 

Niagara Falls is located on the border between Canada and the United States, which makes it possible to get different impressions of this attraction. Here's a breakdown to help you decide which side best suits your preferences and budget:

Canadian Side: 

Horseshoe Falls:

The Niagara Falls – especially the Horseshoe Falls is the most powerful waterfall in North America and you can enjoy breathtaking views of it. 

Journey Behind the Falls:

One can take a closer look at the falls by walking through a tunnel behind the curtain of the water aka the Journey Behind the Falls. 

Skylon Tower:

Get a bird’s eye view of the falls from the top of the Skylon Tower which has an observation deck. 

Niagara Parks:

Visit the Niagara Parks, including the hiking trails, gardens, and scenic points. 

Clifton Hill:

Feel the true spirit of Clifton Hill with its amusement park rides, cafes, and shops. 

American Side: 

American Falls:

Observe the American Falls which are not as big but still wonderful to look at. 

Maid of the Mist:

Boat itself to the base of the falls and you will feel the mist on your face. 

Cave of the Winds:

Cave of the Winds is an exciting walkway that leads you behind the falls and gets you to the base of the American Falls. 

Goat Island:

Visit Goat Island which is a small island that provides excellent views of the American and Horseshoe Falls. 

Whirlpool State Park:

Trek through the Niagara Gorge and watch the force of the river that has carved a whirlpool in the rock at the Whirlpool State Park. 

Key Considerations:

Budget:

In general, it is assumed that the Canadian side is more costly for hotel accommodations as well as attractions. Still, there is an opportunity to find cheap offers on both sides. 

Interests:

If you are a history and culture lover, then you will find more attractions on the Canadian side, like Niagara Parks and the Journey Behind the Falls. If you are in for a more adventurous experience then the American side has the famous boat ride, the Maid of the Mist, and the Cave of the Winds. 

Accessibility:

Both sides are reachable, but the Canadian side could be more friendly to disabled people. 

Crowds:

The Canadian side is usually more crowded; however, it depends on the time of the year. If you are not interested in the party animals, then it is advisable to visit the American side. 

All in all, the best side for you will be the one that suits your personal tastes and your wallet. You should think about the things you like, the activities you wish to perform, and the time you can spend to make the right choice.

Budget-Friendly Activities 

Explore Niagara Parks:

The Niagara Parks are free of charge and some of the activities include; walking trails, scenic views, and historical landmarks. 

Visit the Botanical Gardens:

Niagara Falls Botanical Gardens is a good place to visit especially during summer; the place is beautiful and the entrance is free. 

Enjoy Free Views:

Enjoy the free vantage points at Table Rock Centre and Clifton Hill for a bird’s eye view of Niagara Falls.

Pack a Picnic:

Eat cheap by buying some food and sandwiches and have a picnic in one of the available parks within the Niagara Falls region. 

Consider a Day Trip:

If you are a budget traveler, you can opt for a day trip from one of the neighboring cities such as Toronto or Buffalo. This can help you to cut down on the cost of accommodation. 

Tips for Saving Money 

Book Accommodations in Advance:

It is always advisable to book your hotel or your accommodation early in advance since this will enable you to get a better deal. 

Consider Off-Peak Travel:

If you want to save money, do not travel on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or any holidays because the prices of flights, hotels, and attractions are much cheaper on weekdays. 

Look for Package Deals:

Some of the travel agencies that operate provide their customers with accommodation, transport, and other activities at a bundled price. 

Use Discount Codes or Coupons:

Always look for special offers such as discount codes or coupons that will enable you to save on attractions or meals. 

Niagara Falls: A Cheaper Way to Travel with Tripshepherd 

If you are considering visiting Niagara Falls, you should probably consider going on a tour with Tripshepherd. Our expert guides will ensure that you have an amazing time while simultaneously making sure that you do not spend more money than you should. We offer a variety of tours, including:

Best of Niagara Falls Tour:

This tour covers all the important sites starting from the Horseshoe Falls to the Cave of the Winds. 

Niagara Falls Helicopter Tour:

Take a helicopter ride to get a closer look at the falls with an aerial view. 

Niagara Falls Night Tour:

Enjoy the falls during the night on this fascinating tour. 

Additional Tips for a Budget-Friendly Trip

Pack your own food and drinks:

This can help you cut down on costs of meals particularly if you are going to be out most of the time. 

Take advantage of free activities:

As mentioned above, the Niagara Falls are not short of fun things to do and most of these activities do not cost money. It is possible to go for a hike in the Niagara River Gorge, take a stroll in the botanical gardens, or just watch the beautiful view from the observation platforms. 

Consider staying outside of the city center:

Accommodation in the city center may be costly, you can opt to look for a hotel a little distance from the city center and use a taxi or a bus to get to the city center. 

Look for discounts and promotions:

It is important to know that most of the attractions and businesses in Niagara Falls are usually on discount or have some form of promotion at some point in the year. Make sure that you take your time to research and make good use of these offers. 

Plan your trip around free events:

Niagara Falls is also known for free activities which are held in the area from time to time including concerts, festivals, and fireworks. This means that by scheduling your trip during these events, you can be able to cut on cost of entertainment. 

Conclusion 

Niagara Falls is one of the most marvelous places to visit that will be interesting for any tourist. No matter if you are interested in history, or nature, or you are just looking for an entertaining and cheap vacation, Niagara Falls has it all. The information provided in this guide will help you to get the most out of your visit to this natural phenomenon without spending too much. Be it the American side, or the Canadian side, Tripshepherd has tours for both that make sure you don't miss out on any fun! Check out the Niagara Falls Canada tours or Niagara Falls USA tours on our website and choose the tour best suitable to your budget and interest.