Recent innovations have contributed to a rebound in local tourist activity. Photo Credit: Niagara Parks.
As the 2024 season progresses, both domestic and international tourism are continuing to roar back to life across Niagara, as individuals and families take part in the various recreational opportunities the region has to offer.
“This summer is pacing exceptionally well for tourism,” Niagara Parks CEO David Adames shared with The Niagara Independent. “We are seeing increases in visitation to virtually all of our attractions and sites compared to prior years, which is significant considering how strong our 2023 season was, as well.”
Tourism industries were among those hit the hardest from the beginning of the pandemic, as gathering restrictions and border closures resulted in many locales being partially or entirely shuttered for two years. The inability of American and European tourists to visit the area had a profoundly negative impact. While many businesses fully reopened in 2022, the rising cost of living, as a result of soaring inflation, presented a new challenging environment in which to operate. Despite contending with these adversities, recent innovations have contributed to a rebound in local tourist activity.
“The Niagara Parks Power Station + Tunnel has quickly become our top attraction behind Journey Behind the Falls,” Adames explained. “Since incorporating the tunnel and illumination of the Falls into the nighttime experience at the power station, we have seen visitation increase sustainably for that activation. This also helps to encourage overnight and extended stays in the destination, providing benefits for the entire tourism industry.”
Tony Baldinelli, Niagara Falls MP and Conservative Shadow Minister of Tourism, excitedly welcomed the good news.
“It’s great to hear from local tourism stakeholders that Niagara tourism has rebounded strongly this year,” Baldinelli said. “You can see it in the streets when you travel locally in Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and throughout Niagara Parks. Visitors are enjoying the best that Niagara has to offer.”
Baldinelli lamented, however, that the industry has not rallied everywhere in Canada.
“While tourism recovery is looking strong in Niagara, it’s unfortunately not the case across the rest of the country,” Baldinelli explained. “Nationally, some areas are doing well like ours, while others are still lagging behind 2019 numbers, especially in rural and remote communities.”
While the summer will soon wind down, a wide range of attractions will continue operating to provide a world-class experience for tourists throughout the autumn months, as well as during the lead-up to Christmas, including The Winter Festival of Lights. When all is said and done, Niagara leaders hope that the 2024 tourist season finishes as strongly as it began.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
