- Boat rides reopen in spring, 2027 opening days not announced yet
- Summer fireworks return in May, in 2026 they started on May 15
- Hotel rates rise sharply in May
- May is best month: full attractions, smaller crowds
- Bring layers, mornings are 5 to 10 °C cooler than afternoons
Spring weather month by month
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rain days | Boat? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March | 4 °C | -5 °C | 11 | No |
| April | 11 °C | 2 °C | 11 | From opening day |
| May | 19 °C | 9 °C | 11 | Yes |
Highlights of spring at the falls
- Boat rides reopen for the new season, with smaller crowds than summer
- Cherry blossoms in Niagara-on-the-Lake, late April to early May
- Spring tulip displays at the Floral Showhouse, March and April
- Niagara Glen wildflowers, trillium and bloodroot bloom in late April and May
- Bird migration through the gorge, peak in April and early May
What to wear
Layers are essential. Mornings 4 to 10 °C, afternoons 11 to 22 °C. Pack a light waterproof jacket (rain plus boat spray), a fleece, long pants and a t shirt for warm afternoons. Closed walking shoes mandatory, the Niagara Parkway can be muddy after spring rain.
Recommended tour for spring
Spring perfect: walking tour plus boat ride.
Check availability →Sunrise tour, perfect spring light.
Check availability →What to skip in spring
- Late March, attractions still on winter schedule, boat closed
- Spring break weekend (US college students), mid March can get crowded with student groups
- Outdoor wine tour without rain plan, spring rain is unpredictable
Verdict
May is the best spring month and arguably one of the best months overall: full attractions, mild weather, lower prices than summer. April is a close second once the boat reopens. March is for budget travelers who do not mind missing the boat.
Internal links
For overall best month see best month to visit. For summer see summer guide.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, especially May once the boat ride reopens. May has full attractions running, mild weather (15 to 22 °C) and 30 to 40 percent fewer crowds than July. April is also excellent value once the boats open.
Neither boat operator has published its 2027 opening day yet. For reference, the Maid of the Mist on the US side opened its 2026 season on Friday, April 24.
Layers. Light waterproof jacket, fleece, long pants and a t shirt for warm afternoons. Closed walking shoes. Spring rain is unpredictable so always pack waterproof.
Yes. March hotel rates are typically 50 percent below July peak. April rises to about 30 percent below. May rises to 15 to 20 percent below July, still a meaningful saving.
