Are you looking for the best fall foliage in Niagara Falls?
Whether you are a local or a visitor planning a fall escape, one thing is for sure, Niagara Falls is the place for fall foliage season. The trees are lit up in bright colours of golden yellow, burnt orange, and cranberry red. The landscape is dotted with speckles of each colour, like a crayon box of vibrancy. The trees are set on the turquoise backdrop of the Niagara River, making for an artist’s palette alive and in full colour. It’s more remarkable than words can articulate and can only be experienced in person.
Seeing the fall foliage in Niagara Falls has been on my Canadian bucket list for years, and when the opportunity to book it finally came up, I jumped on it. We spent four glorious days leaf peeping in Niagara Falls and in Niagara-on-the-Lake and had thousands of photos to prove it (one of my biggest challenges is narrowing down which ones to share with you!).
On our trip, we worked closely with Niagara Parks to seek out the best fall leaves in Niagara and we’ve put together this guide to help you plan your adventure.
13 Places To See The Fall Foliage in Niagara Falls in 2025
1. Niagara Glen
Hands down, the number one place that you must go if you’re looking for Fall foliage in Niagara Falls is the Niagara Glen. A Niagara Parks site, The Glen is set along the turquoise Niagara River. You’ll access the trails by traversing down a flight of steel stairs, deep into the great Gorge. The area is a designated nature reserve and has 4km of paths and trails for you to explore. If you’re in search of the prettiest pictures, I’d do the exterior loop as that will take you to the riverside trails which will offer the most picturesque landscape photos.
The trails are VERY well-marked, perhaps the most well-marked trails that I have ever hiked. This overall path is a huge loop that goes around the exterior of the forest, and then lots of cutbacks should you want to head back to the car sooner. The trails were tranquil when we went on a sunny fall day, but we did see some rock climbers carrying their climbing gear and backpack fall mats, which is apparently a regular site in the Glen.
While you may be there for the fall foliage (it’s abundant) I loved that these trails had so many other things to showcase, including an incredible number of gigantic boulders that have been left behind as Niagara Falls have eroded and retreated over thousands of years. While we went for photos of the foliage, my camera roll was full of the unique inland trails that had us rounding around two story-high rocks and feeling like we were in an Amazon jungle making our way to new discoveries.
Hiking Recommendations:
- There is an elevation change of 60 meters (200 feet) and you’ll need to navigate a flight of stairs down into The Glen and then back up.
- The terrain is on rocky surfaces with uneven terrain so proper footwear is required (no high heels or flip-flops!).
- Be sure to pop into The Niagara Glen Nature Centre to check out the displays on the eco-system of the area, fabulous local souvenirs, and (in the spring in summer months) join a guided hiking tour.
2. Whirlpool Aero Car
Chances are that if you’ve been researching “Fall Foliage in Niagara Falls” you’ve come across photos of the Whirlpool Aero Car. A switchback in the Niagara River forms powerful whirlpools and there’s a cable car that you can soar in high above the roaring rapids. What makes it magical though is that the riverbanks are filled with maple and oak trees that are all showcasing their brightest fall colours. The combination of the two makes for a magical site and one of the most scenic views in the area.
Beyond the sights though, the Whirlpool Aero Car is a unique attraction that visitors have been going to for over 100 years. Designed by a Spanish engineer, Leonardo Torres Quevedo, and built in 1916, the cable car traverses above both Canadian and US waters. The antique cable car is as picture-perfect as it is unique, making it another must-see attraction when seeking out leaf-peeping season in Niagara Falls.
Fun Facts:
- The trip is about 10 minutes there and back.
- The cable car can have 35 passengers (all standing).
- The attraction is NOT wheelchair accessible.
- While you do cross over both Canadian and US waters, you don’t get off the cable car on the other side.
3. White Water Walk
Head down a 70-meter elevator to the bottom of the Great Gorge to the White Water Walk and get up close to Niagara’s class six rapids set upon the riverbank. Niagara Parks has installed a boardwalk that runs parallel to the river that in the fall is under a canopy of brightly coloured trees.
This is a quick walk, at only 1000 feet or a quarter of a mile, but I do recommend making the stop as it’s the best viewing spot to see the wild rapids and walk riverside along a boardwalk.
Growing up in BC we’re quite familiar with big rivers and huge rapids but this was the first time I had ever seen class 6 rapids and they were gigantic. Pair this unique geological site with the beautiful fall leaves and it makes for the perfect spot to stop.
Quick Facts:
- After going down the elevator you’ll traverse through a tunnel out to the boardwalk.
- The boardwalk is accessible except for 2 lookouts that take you closer to the river and are only accessed by stairs.
4. Dufferin Islands
With scenic sights like a bridge settled in over the water, winding pathways, and gigantic maples towering over the picnic-perfect grass Dufferin Islands is a photographer’s dream when chasing fall foliage. Whether you’re there with your professional camera or have an iPhone in hand, you’re guaranteed to capture some beautiful scenery in this popular Niagara Falls spot.
Only a short walk from the Table Rock Center, Dufferin Islands has ten acres for you to explore. The best part is that it’s less visited than some of the other more popular destinations, so you’re sure to enjoy some quiet time and maybe even spot some wildlife while you’re visiting the park.
5. Skylon Tower
If there was one thing I missed on my trip to Niagara Falls, it’s seeing Niagara Falls from Skylon Tower. Based on my research, the view from the top of Skylon Tower observation deck overlooking Niagara Falls and the surrounding town would have been quite the sight to see. The best part is that you get to see the view as you ascend to the top of the tower, as they have exterior glass-enclosed “Yellow Bug Elevators” that take you from the ground to the top of the observation deck in under one minute. On a clear day not only will you see the tree tops, the city below and the falls, but you’ll also be able to see the skylines of Buffalo, New York, and Toronto off in the distance!
6. Niagara Parkway
Once dubbed by Sir Winston Churchill as “One of the prettiest drives in the world,” the Niagara Parkway is truly just that, a remarkable route that runs parallel to the Niagara River. In the fall the leaves are bursting with bright colour, decorating the overhead skyline with golden hues. I quickly pulled out my insta360 camera and practically recorded the whole drive down the 11.8km road, recording 360 degrees of colour as we cruised.
Photography Tips: If you have time stop at the Queenston Heights Park and the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve for good lookout points.
7. Niagara-on-the-Lake
The Niagara Parkway takes you from Niagara Falls to the picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. I felt like we were driving into a fall Hallmark movie set, with ornate architecture, charming little shops, and a locally owned and visited setting. The streets themselves make for great landscape photos and a lot of the stores decorate their front steps and windows to reflect the autumn vibes. We only were able to drive through but I recommend taking time to stop, stroll, sip, and shop!
8. Queenston Heights Park
A more classic-style garden and city park await at the historical Queenston Heights Park. Home to important monuments including the Landscape of Nations Memorial, and the Brock and Laura Secord Memorial, Queenston Park is a place of reflection and respect, with beautifully manicured gardens to reflect this experience. The park also boasts amenities including hiking trails, picnic areas, and more, making it a destination park should you want one. Gardeners with a green thumb will love this park.
9. Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for a more traditional garden space in the fall, the Niagara Parks Botanical Garden is the perfect destination. Expertly manicured by Niagara Parks, Niagara Parks Botanical Garden transforms from season to season, and fall is no exception. Stroll one of the walking paths or take a moment by one of their ornate displays! This site is home to the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture and is a living outdoor classroom where students can take part in shaping Niagara’s landscape. Only a short minute drive away, you can check the time on the iconic Floral Clock.
Fun Fact: This is where a lot of locals go for their milestone photos including weddings and graduations.
10. Niagara Riding Stables
Take your Fall foliage excursion to another level and do a horseback riding tour in the fall with Niagara Riding Stables. For over 60 years Niagara Riding Stables has been leading guests on riding tours along the Niagara Escarpment and in the fall the trails are truly extraordinary. While I used to be nervous around horses, after doing a few tours in different places I have fallen in love with it as it allows you to cover more ground, explore more areas, and go on trails that you sometimes can’t access on foot. Plus, it’s a bit more adventurous than a hike, and if you’ve taken me up on my first 9 recommendations on this list it might be nice to get off your feet for a while!
Booking Tips:
- Proper attire including close-toed shoes are required.
- Book in advance
Fun Fact: They have over 160 five-star reviews on Trip Advisor!
11. Floral Showhouse
Another one for those who appreciate the art and science of gardens, the Floral Showhouse is a great place to explore. Formally known as “The Niagara Parks Commission Floral Showhouse,” this attraction is designed by Niagara Parks’ horticulturalist and showcases seven different displays that reflect the season throughout the year.
While we were visiting, we were able to explore the Chrysanthemum show and my favourite part was when I rounded a corner to discover a 30-foot dragon standing in front of me!
The Floral Showhouse is where Niagara Parks’ horticulturalists and designers shine, creating iconic floral displays like the Whismical Creatures, Niagara Parks newest addition. These whimsical, living sculptures are “whimsical topiary-like living sculptures meticulously crafted from thousands of plants in the refined horticultural style of Mosaïculture.”
Charles Hunter is the Director of Horticulture and Education at Niagara Parks. He now brings his experience and passion to Niagara Falls with incredible creations that inspire the next generation of both students and visitors.
The Floral Showhouse has been welcoming visitors for over 60 years, and while it’s only steps (500 meters, ½ mile) from the falls, it’s a spot that is often missed (don’t make that mistake).
Some other fun facts about the Floral Showhouse include:
- Resident turtles in the entrance including an albino one
- In the summer there is a fragrance garden where plants are identified in Braille for the visually impaired.
- Orchids, succulents, and other tropical plant species are on display throughout the year.
- They have seven rotating shows that are reflections of the seasons.
12. Paradise Grove
Want to walk among 100+ year-old oak trees? Paradise Grove is located on the north end of Niagara Parkway and is a woodlot park that has environmental, cultural, and historical significance. It is known for its species at risk, old-growth oaks predating the War of 1812. Over the years, invasive species compromised the ecological integrity of these old-growth oaks. In 2003, Niagara Parks alongside, Parks Canada, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, and Niagara Restoration Council began to introduce native plant materials as part of an ongoing restoration project. “These environmental initiatives aim to sustain important ecosystems along the Niagara River Corridor and contribute to the long-term protection and enhancement of Paradise Grove for the enjoyment of generations to come.” So be sure to stick to the pathways and take only photographs.
13. Niagara Helicopters
Do you want to splurge and take in the view of Niagara Falls in Autumn from above? By far our greatest adventure was with Niagara Helicopters when we took a twelve-minute tour that flew us over the Niagara landscape and all the way to the world-renowned Niagara Falls. Touted as “The world’s highest, most scenic, and most exciting sightseeing experience” this really is an adventure all in itself and one we will never forget.
One thing I love about Niagara Helicopters is that you don’t have to have a reservation and can just hop in for an adventure. However, I do recommend that you try to get there before a tour bus so that you don’t have to wait long (although they move the line quickly so I doubt you’d ever wait more than 20 minutes).
Save $ with a Niagara Parks Pass
A few of the locations above require a paid ticket to access (Whirlpool Aero Car, White Water Walk, and Floral Showhouse), so we highly recommend purchasing one of the Adventure Passes from Niagara Parks. Not only will the pass allow you entrance to these attractions, but includes many others (including Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara Parks Power Station + The Tunnel, and Butterfly Conservatory) plus 2 days of unlimited rides on the incline railway and the WEGO bus system. Purchasing the Adventure Pass, instead of buying individual tickets at each attraction, will save you money, and who doesn’t love that?
Traveler Tip: Start your adventure at the Table Rock Welcome Centre and purchase your Adventure Pass from the ticket booth there.
Parking Tips & Tricks
The cost of parking is dependent on location. Our tip is to park at the Rapidsview lot, which offers a cheaper rate, and utilize the in-park WEGO bus system.
“WEGO is the hop-on, hop-off visitor transportation system that connects all Niagara Parks locations to your hotel as well as other Niagara Falls tourism areas.” If you choose to purchase the Niagara Parks Adventure Pass, you get 2-days of unlimited rides on the WEGO bus system.
Where to Stay
Fallsview Casino Resort
As soon as I walked through the door of my hotel room, I ran to the window and let out a squeal. My view had me overlooking the falls, like my own private viewing deck. I quickly moved all the furniture away from the window, and disassembled my bed, so that I could move my king-size mattress right next to the view. For the rest of the week, I fell asleep and woke up to one of the most iconic views in all of Canada. I would jump out of bed and start taking sunrise photos and do the same at night as the falls lit up and put on a show.
Oh yeah, and it’s a great hotel too, as it’s centrally located (easy to walk down to the Table Rock Centre or quickly hop on the WEGO bus) and has more amenities than I can list (although it has a great indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center). But waking up to that view from the Fallsview Casino Resort… absolutely unforgettable!
Where To Eat
Table Rock House Restaurant
If you’re truly looking for the best seat in the house, a window seat at Table Rock House Restaurant is the only way to go. When our host took us to our table we couldn’t believe our seats, we felt like VIPs sitting as close to the falls as you can get.
As the sun went down the falls lit up and we spent our 3-course meal soaking in the incredible scenery all while indulging in amazing food. We were fortunate to spend two nights there and on the second night a harvest moon appeared and we had to stop eating several times to capture the bright moon shining over Niagara Falls.
Traveler Tip: Make reservations in advance and request a window seat overlooking the falls! While there are no bad seats in the restaurant, the window seat is something special.
Photography Tips for Leaf Peeping
Whether this is your first time taking photos of fall leaves, or you’re a seasoned pro, you’ll have more opportunities than your camera can shoot when leaf peeping in Niagara Falls. Here are a few of my favourite tips that help me capture incredible photos (or so says my Mom) during our Fall trip:
Golden Hour
Golden Hour is a beautiful time to head out. Not only are there little or no crowds, but the soft light makes the scenic landscape sparkle. Golden Hour happens twice a day, typically 1 hour after sunrise and 1 hour before sunset.
Backlight
Use a backlight to make the leaves shine. Try holding leaves with the turquoise river as a backdrop.
Clothing
Wear complementary colours to the fall leaves if you want to be captured in your photographs. Red, blue, forest green, and mustard yellow all looked good in my photos (if I do compliment myself).
Photo Editing
When editing in Lightroom, decrease the shadows, and increase the vibrance and the saturation to make the colours shine like they did in person!
Fall Foliage in Niagara Falls – Final Recommendations
After coming back from my trip, I ran into a friend at yoga class and she said, “Wow, your photos look amazing, I’ve always wanted to go!” and so I quickly said, “Do it!” This is a sentiment of many people, Niagara Falls tends to be on a lot of people’s bucket lists but instead, it spends time on the backburner while the seasons pass. So, if you’ve come this far in the article it tells me that you’re keen to chase the changing seasons and go and see Niagara Falls in its best fall attire… It’s some of the best leaf peeping in all of Canada and a bucket list experience that you’ll never forget!
