Niagara Falls & Toronto, Canada

A Winter Weekend in Toronto + Niagara Falls

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Visited: January

Type of Traveler: Adventure Seeker

Vibe of Trip: Cultural, Scenic, Cozy, Adventure

Traveler Details: Age Range: 30s | Food Preferences: Picky eater | Travel Style: Urban explorer, Mid-budget

First Impressions: Arriving in a Snow Globe

We caught the last available flight out of Fort Lauderdale Airport and landed in Toronto just before midnight. After living in South Florida most of my life, I wasn’t fully prepared for the crisp slap of cold air that greeted us outside the terminal — a true Canadian winter welcome.

Despite arriving late, customs was fast and easy, and within minutes we were in an Uber, riding through the quiet, snow-dusted city streets. The ride to our hotel took about an hour — a long time, but worth every second once we stepped into the warm lobby of Cambridge Suites in Downtown Toronto.

We booked the Deluxe Suite, and by the time we opened the door, dropped our bags, and took steaming hot showers, I collapsed into what I can only describe as the most comfortable hotel bed I have ever slept in. No exaggeration. That bed alone deserves its own review.

What I Loved: Food, Views & Venturing Out

We were up at sunrise the next morning to catch the train to Niagara Falls, a 2-hour ride with VIA Rail. The train was quiet, heated, and scenic — perfect for a cozy winter day trip. Be warned though: there’s only one train to and from Niagara Falls per day, so once you’re there, you’re there for a while.

While 7 hours in Niagara Falls was more than necessary, we made the most of it:

• Took photos at the Falls

• Visited the Skyline Tower

• Played in the snow and made snow angels at a nearby park

• Had lunch and wandered the visitor center

It was fun — but I’d recommend doing this in summer for a more comfortable experience. Winter is beautiful, but the cold hits different out there.

Back in Toronto, we explored the downtown core and had dinner at Terroni. Despite not having a reservation, they seated us quickly. I ordered the Duck Confit Ravioli, even though I don’t like mushrooms and had never tried duck before — and it blew my mind. Easily the best meal of the trip. Rich, tender, perfectly balanced. 20/10.

The next morning, we grabbed breakfast at Eggspectation (French Toast Flambé = heaven), wandered through indoor markets and malls near the hotel, and soaked in our last snowy morning in the city. It snowed softly that day — one of those quiet, magical moments that makes you fall in love with winter… even if just for a weekend.

What I Wish I Knew Beforehand

• Niagara Falls in winter is colder and windier than you expect — pack heavy. I wish I had brought hand warmers, a scarf, thermal socks, and waterproof boots.

• The Niagara Falls train schedule is limited — only one train in and one train out per day, so plan accordingly.

• Some attractions were closed for the season, so do your research ahead of time.

• While Toronto felt familiar and welcoming, it was still very much Canada — expect metric systems, Celsius temps, and a slightly different pace.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes — but with context.

Toronto in January is best for travelers who are:

• Open to cold weather

• Looking to save money (flights and hotels are much cheaper in winter)

• Wanting a cozy, culture-filled weekend that’s easy to navigate

• Melanated travelers looking for a safe, welcoming international city that still feels familiar

Toronto is diverse, safe, clean, and easy to get around. It feels a lot like an American city — but with better public transit and poutine.

Final Travel Tips

• Bundle up. Bring real winter gear if you’re visiting Niagara Falls in January.

• Book your Niagara train tickets in advance and check seasonal schedules.

• Don’t miss Terroni for dinner — even if you don’t think you’ll like duck.

• Eggspectation is a great breakfast spot if you love hearty, flavorful meals.

• Cambridge Suites was a hidden gem — central, affordable, and that bed deserves a loyalty program.

• Visit in January or winter season to save significantly on hotels and airfare.