Light up The Falls Small Group Tour with Fallsview Dinner

Imagine sipping a glass of wine while gazing at the roaring Niagara Falls illuminated in shifting colors, then taking control of the lights yourself. That’s exactly what you get with the Light up The Falls Small Group Tour with Fallsview Dinner. Starting at $147.51 per person, this approximately 2-hour experience offers a blend of delicious dining, breathtaking views, and interactive fun, all within a cozy group of no more than 7 people.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of a gourmet dinner with a chance to get hands-on with the Falls’ lighting system. And the fact that transport is included means no fuss about parking or wandering around trying to find the right spot. A second highlight is the personalized experience—a small group means you’ll get more attention from your guides and a more intimate view of the falls.

However, a possible consideration is that the dinner menu is fixed, which might not suit everyone’s dietary needs or preferences, especially if you’re particular about food. Also, some reviews mention that the “lighting control” can feel quite brief, so if you’re expecting a lengthy, elaborate demonstration, keep that in mind.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy delicious food with a view, want to see Niagara Falls in a new light, and are eager for some interaction—whether that’s controlling the lights or learning about the falls’ history. It’s perfect if you’re after a memorable, personalized evening that combines sightseeing, dining, and fun.

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group: Max 7 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Gourmet Fallsview Dinner: About 1.5 hours of dining with spectacular views.
• Interactive Light Show: Learn how the Falls are lit, and even control the lights yourself.
• Great Value: Includes transport, dinner, and a light show for under $150.
• Flexible Experience: Suitable for most travelers, including service animals.
• Memorable Keepsake: Receive an exclusive “I Lit Up Niagara Falls” certificate.

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded evening, starting with a dinner overlooking Niagara Falls at the Queen Victoria Place Restaurant. The restaurant’s panoramic windows put you right at the edge of the action, giving you an up-close view of the waterfalls as they crash and swirl beneath. The menu features a prix fixe, which generally receives positive comments about the quality and ambiance, making it a great way to indulge while soaking in the view.

One thing to note from reviews like Robin’s: the dinner might be “just okay,” with some travelers wishing for more choices or a less fixed menu, especially if you have specific dietary restrictions. But most agree that the setting and views make up for it.

Following dinner, your guide will take you to the Illumination Tower, where the magic really begins. You get a behind-the-scenes look at how Niagara’s famous multicolored light display is managed. According to reviews, the lighting demonstration is engaging and interactive. You’ll learn about the history of the lights and how they’ve evolved over time. For many, the highlight is the chance to control the colors on the Falls, turning them into a personal masterpiece.

The certification as an “I Lit Up Niagara Falls” adds a fun souvenir to remember the evening. Several reviews, like Marilyn’s, appreciated the chance to actually manage the lights, which adds a playful, almost childlike thrill.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Queen Victoria Place Restaurant

Your evening kicks off with dinner in a setting that combines gourmet cuisine with spectacular views. It’s a chance to relax and enjoy a meal as the Falls’ roar provides a natural soundtrack. The 1 hour 30 minutes allocated for dinner includes your meal and some downtime to take in the scenery.

Many guests, like the reviewer who called the experience “absolutely amazing,” appreciated the delicious food and the ambiance. The restaurant’s location is ideal, and it’s a rare opportunity to enjoy a meal right on the doorstep of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.

Stop 2: Illumination Tower

Next, you’ll visit the control tower—a behind-the-scenes spot where the Falls’ lighting is orchestrated. Here, you’ll get a brief lesson on the history and mechanics of the lighting system. The real fun is the chance to manipulate the lights yourself, choosing colors or patterns.

Reviews highlight that this part of the tour can feel short and sweet, with a few even calling it “push-button” and wishing for more time. But most guests find it a unique and fun experience, especially when they get to see the Falls in different hues and watch fireworks as a grand finale.

Additional Points of Interest

While the main focus is the dinner and light show, the tour also passes by notable landmarks such as the Old Scow, the International Control Dam, and the Upper Rapids. It’s a good chance to get some context and see the area from a different perspective, even if just from the van.

Real Experiences and Honest Opinions from Reviewers

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides like Allan and Leila, who make the experience engaging and informative. One reviewer mentions that their guide “knows his stuff,” and others appreciated how guides shared interesting stories about Niagara’s history and the lighting system.

The small group setting tends to be a big plus, offering more interaction and less crowding. For instance, RIC_M describes the experience as “like getting a ‘back street pass’ to the show,” emphasizing the exclusive, behind-the-scenes feeling.

But not all reviews are glowing. Ashley_J felt that the lighting control was overly simplistic, describing it as “clicking a button on an iPad,” and felt the experience was brief. That said, even these guests still enjoyed the overall beauty of the falls and the gourmet dinner.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: The tour starts at 8:00 PM, making it perfect for sunset or early evening. Arriving early for dinner or transport is advisable.
• Transport: Included in the price, which saves you the hassle of parking or figuring out transit.
• Group Size: Limited to 7 guests, fostering a more personal feel.
• Cost: At around $147.51, considering it includes dinner, transportation, and the light show, it offers good value for a unique and memorable experience.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed, and it is suitable for most travelers.
• Weather: Since part of the experience involves sightseeing outside the restaurant and at the illumination tower, bring appropriate clothing, especially if rain or wind kicks up.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of great food, stunning scenery, and interactive fun. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a more personal, intimate experience rather than large crowds. If you’re a light enthusiast, or just curious about how Niagara’s famous lights work, this tour will delight. Plus, families and couples looking for a romantic yet fun evening will find it a memorable option.

If you’re after a deeper history or more elaborate tour, you might find this somewhat limited. But for a relaxed, fun, and visually spectacular evening, it checks all the boxes.

FAQ about the Light up The Falls Tour

• What is included in the price?
  The tour includes a Gourmet dinner with falls views, transportation, access to the Illumination Tower, the light show experience, and a keepsake certificate.

• How long does the tour last?
  It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 8:00 PM, covering dinner and the light show.

• Is transportation provided?
  Yes, pickup and drop-off are included within the downtown Niagara Falls area.

• Can I control the lights myself?
  Yes, you will learn how to change the colors on the Falls during the demonstration at the Illumination Tower.

• Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
  The menu is fixed, so if you have specific dietary needs, it’s worth checking in advance. Feedback suggests the food is generally well-received, but options are limited.

• What about group size?
  The maximum group size is 7 people, making for a more personalized experience.

• Is this suitable for kids or service animals?
  Yes, service animals are permitted, and most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the fixed menu and outdoor elements.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour.

Final Thoughts

The Light up The Falls Small Group Tour with Fallsview Dinner offers a personalized, fun, and visually stunning way to experience Niagara at night. Combining delicious food, interactive lighting controls, and a small-group setting, it makes for an excellent choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager for an intimate, memorable evening.

While some might wish for a more extensive or elaborate lighting demonstration, most guests find the experience charming and special—especially when paired with the unforgettable backdrop of Niagara Falls shimmering in different hues. The included transport and limited group size make this a value-packed option that balances comfort, entertainment, and spectacle.

If you’re looking for a relaxing yet engaging night out, with the chance to play with the lights and enjoy gourmet dining, this tour could very well be the highlight of your Niagara trip. Just be prepared for a brief but fun demonstration—the rest of the evening is yours to soak in the magic.

Additional Resources

For those interested in other Niagara experiences, consider exploring the best of Niagara Falls tours, zipline adventures, or boat tours. This tour pairs well with daytime activities like the Journey Behind the Falls or a visit to the Skylon Tower for panoramic views.

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