What is the monthly number of tourists who visit Niagara Falls?

Facebook Tweet Pin Email

Niagara Falls is a world-renowned and iconic destination located between Ontario, Canada, and New York, United States. Comprising of three waterfalls, Niagara Falls is a popular spot for tourists to get up close and personal with nature. Visitors can view the falls from various observation decks, take a boat tour, or explore the surrounding area. The Niagara Falls are a significant source of revenue for both countries, and the tourism industry is vital for the local economy. In this article, we will explore the monthly number of tourists who visit Niagara Falls, as well as recent trends and projections for the future.

Historical data on tourism

Tourism in Niagara Falls has a long history, with visitors flocking to the area since the early 19th century. In 1846, the first bridge over the Niagara River was built, which increased tourism to the area. By the early 20th century, Niagara Falls was known as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World," and visitors came from all over to experience the beauty and romance of the falls. In the 1950s and 1960s, the area saw a surge of development, with hotels, restaurants, and attractions popping up to cater to tourists.

Recent trends in visitation

In recent years, the number of tourists visiting Niagara Falls has remained relatively stable. According to the Niagara Falls Tourism Board, approximately 14 million visitors come to the area each year. However, there have been some fluctuations in monthly visitation numbers. May and June are typically the busiest months, with July and August following closely behind. September and October also see a significant number of visitors, as the fall foliage in the area is a major draw.

Factors affecting monthly numbers

Several factors affect the number of tourists who visit Niagara Falls each month. The weather is one of the most significant factors, as visitors are more likely to come during the warmer months. The exchange rate between the Canadian and American dollar can also impact visitation, as it can be more or less expensive for international tourists to travel to the area. Additionally, events and festivals in the area can attract more visitors, such as the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, which takes place from November to January.

Monthly numbers in peak season

During peak season, May to September, Niagara Falls sees an average of 1.2 million visitors per month. July and August are the busiest months, with over 1.5 million visitors each. These months are popular with families, as kids are out of school and the weather is warm. May and June are also busy, with over 1 million visitors each month. In general, peak season is characterized by longer wait times for attractions, higher hotel prices, and more crowded public spaces.

Monthly numbers in off-season

In the off-season, October to April, Niagara Falls sees an average of 200,000 visitors per month. November and December are the slowest months, with fewer than 100,000 visitors each. January and February also see a dip in visitation, with around 150,000 visitors each month. March and April see a slight increase in visitors, with around 200,000 per month. During the off-season, visitors can often find better deals on hotels and attractions, and there are fewer crowds to contend with.

Analysis of data by country of origin

The majority of visitors to Niagara Falls come from the United States, with approximately 60% of visitors hailing from across the border. Around 30% of visitors are Canadian, with the remaining 10% coming from other countries like China, Japan, and the United Kingdom. However, the percentage of visitors from each country can vary from month to month, depending on factors like exchange rates and travel restrictions.

Analysis of data by age and gender

Niagara Falls attracts visitors of all ages and genders. However, families with children make up a significant portion of the visitor demographic during peak season. In the off-season, the area sees more adult visitors, especially those aged 50 and over. In terms of gender, visitation is fairly evenly split between male and female visitors.

Impact of COVID-19 on monthly numbers

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on tourism in Niagara Falls, as it has in many other destinations around the world. In 2020, visitation to the area dropped by around 80%, with only 3.8 million visitors coming to the area. Many attractions and hotels were closed or operating at reduced capacity, and travel restrictions made it difficult for international visitors to come to the area. It is unclear how long it will take for visitation numbers to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Projections for future visitation

It is difficult to predict what the future holds for tourism in Niagara Falls, given the ongoing pandemic and changing travel restrictions. However, the Niagara Falls Tourism Board is optimistic that visitation numbers will bounce back once it is safe to do so. The organization is continuing to promote the area as a safe and exciting destination for travelers, and is working with local businesses to develop new attractions and experiences.

Conclusion and recommendations

In conclusion, Niagara Falls is a popular and iconic destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. Monthly visitation numbers fluctuate depending on a variety of factors, including weather, exchange rates, and events in the area. Families with children are more likely to visit during peak season, while adults aged 50 and over make up a significant portion of off-season visitors. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on tourism in the area, but the Niagara Falls Tourism Board is optimistic about the future. To maximize your visit to Niagara Falls, it is best to plan your trip during the off-season, when prices are lower and crowds are thinner.