Best Places to View Niagara Falls at Night
Niagara Falls at Night

Best Places to View Niagara Falls at Night

by  Alicia Ward
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2024-02-07 (last updated on)

Table of Contents

Niagara Falls by day is a breathtaking wonder, but by night it is spectacular. Niagara Falls at night is well-known for the illumination on the falls with coloured lights coming from the Illumination Tower, located on the roof of the Table Rock Centre. In this guide, we’ll share our recommendations for the Best Places to View Niagara Falls at Night from the Canadian and USA-side. Whether you're looking for romance, family fun, or amazing photos. These views are free or affordable, easy to access, and unforgettable.

Best View of Niagara Falls at Night From Canadian Side

Skylon Tower

It stands 775 feet tall and gives you a full view of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. The tower has both indoor and outdoor observation decks. From the observation area at the Skylon Tower, you’ll be treated to an incredible birds-eye view of all three Niagara Falls at night. Plus, you’ll also get a pretty neat view on the way up in their yellow bug glass elevators.

You can also enjoy a meal at the Revolving Dining Room. As you eat, the floor slowly turns, giving you a full 360-degree view of the Falls and city lights. It is open all year and is great for couples, families, and anyone who loves beautiful views.

See Niagara Falls from Skylon Tower and explore it up close

Illumination Tower

At the Illumination Tower, guests can actually control the lights that appear on the Falls in real-time, making this our favourite place to view the illuminated falls. This attraction isn’t made widely available to the public, but you can visit if you go as part of a tour group with one of the companies that has an exclusive partnership to visit. Hint, we’re currently the only Canadian-owned and operated company offering guests the opportunity to visit the Illumination Tower.

Table Rock House Restaurant

If you want to catch a glimpse of Niagara Falls illuminated while you eat or have a drink, then Table Rock House Restaurant is the perfect place to do just that. It is located just steps away from the brink of the Horseshoe Falls. Make sure to grab a seat near the windows. P.S. If you take one of our Night on Niagara or our Day and Night Combo Tour of Niagara Falls night tours, dinner at this restaurant is included.

Queen Victoria Park

Queen Victoria Park is one of the best places to view Niagara Falls at night. It is a large, open green space right beside the Falls. Families, couples, and friends come here to relax, walk, or have a picnic.

At night, the park offers a clear and close view of the illuminated waterfalls. From May to October, it’s also one of the top spots to watch the fireworks show over the Falls. You can bring a blanket and enjoy the display under the stars.

Niagara Parkway

When the weather is nice out, you may want to take a stroll along the walkways next to the Niagara Parkway. The view of the illuminated Falls from here provides a stunning backdrop for your evening walk.

Niagara Skywheel

The Niagara SkyWheel is just like the ones you rode at fairs as a kid, only much more comfortable as it is fully enclosed and boasts climate control with air-conditioning and heating available and with an incredible view of the Falls. It’s a great way to grab an aerial glimpse of the Falls while embracing your inner-child.

Niagara City Cruises

The Niagara City Cruises: Falls Fireworks Cruise is a special way to see the Falls at night. It is a 40-minute boat ride that takes you close to the base of the waterfalls. At night, the Falls are lit up with colorful lights, creating a magical scene.

You will feel the cool mist on your face as you sail past the glowing water. On select nights from May to October, you can also watch fireworks explode in the sky above

Light up Niagara Falls and enjoy a fireworks cruise at night

A Fallsview Hotel Room

A Niagara Falls hotel with a fallsview room is a great place to enjoy the view of the illuminated falls and fireworks in comfort. There are plenty of hotels that offer this option including: Sheraton on the Falls, Marriott on the Falls, Marriott Fallsview, Embassy Suites and Hilton Fallsview to name a few.

Where to View Niagara Falls at Night From the USA Side

Prospect Point & Luna Island

Prospect Point and Luna Island are two of the best places to view Niagara Falls at night from the USA side. These spots are located in Niagara Falls State Park and offer stunning views of all three waterfalls—American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.

At night, the falls light up with colorful LED lights, and the views from here are beautiful and peaceful. These areas are usually less crowded than the Canadian side, so it’s a great choice if you prefer a quieter experience.

Both spots are also perfect for photography. You can capture amazing shots of the illuminated falls with fewer people in your way. It’s a calm, scenic place to enjoy the magic of Niagara Falls after dark.

Terrapin Point

Terrapin Point is one of the best places to view Horseshoe Falls at night from the USA side. It is located on Goat Island and brings you right to the edge of the thundering water. The roar and mist make the experience feel powerful and exciting.

This spot is great any time of day, but it's especially beautiful at golden hour and during the nighttime illumination. As the sky darkens, the falls light up in bright colors, and the view becomes magical.

Helicopter Tour at Sunset or Twilight

A helicopter tour at sunset or twilight is one of the most exciting ways to see Niagara Falls. These tours fly high above the waterfalls and give you a stunning view as the sky changes colors. You can see the Falls light up just as the sun goes down.

Some helicopter tours are timed for sunset or early evening. This gives you the chance to see both the natural beauty and the night lights from the air. It’s a quiet, smooth ride with amazing photo opportunities.

These tours are seasonal and may not run in winter. They are more expensive than other options, but the experience is truly unforgettable. It’s perfect for special occasions or anyone looking for something extra special.

See Niagara Falls by helicopter and boat on this unforgettable tour

Tips for Visiting Best Places to View Niagara Falls at Night

To make the most of your nighttime visit, here are some simple tips to help you plan:

- Dress in layers.** It can get cool near the water, even in summer.

- Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho.** Mist from the Falls can reach you even on land.

- Carry a camera or phone with night mode. The lights and fireworks are perfect for photos.

- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking on paved paths that may get wet.

- Use the WEGO bus system. It runs to major attractions and is wheelchair accessible.

- Look for parking early. Spaces fill up fast near Queen Victoria Park and Clifton Hill Park.

- Book Fallsview hotels if possible. They offer the best nighttime views right from your room.

- Check weather and fireworks updates online or by phone. Plans may change due to rain or wind.

Conclusion

Niagara Falls at night is a sight you’ll never forget. Whether you're standing at Table Rock, floating on a Falls Fireworks Cruise, or enjoying dinner in a Fallsview restaurant, the glowing waterfalls are truly magical.

Each spot offers something special. Some give you a close-up view, others show you the Falls from above. Try to visit more than one location if you can. Seeing the Falls from different angles makes the experience even better.

Don’t forget your camera, dress for the weather, and take your time. Whether you’re with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, Niagara Falls at night is a memory you’ll treasure.