Honeymoons & romance
Niagara Falls: the classic honeymoon
Thundering water, clouds of mist and rainbows in the spray. Long before tropical islands were within easy reach, couples came to Niagara to begin married life, and they still do.
For generations, the words "Niagara Falls" and "honeymoon" went together. The falls were the classic North American wedding trip, a place of drama and romance within reach of millions. Tastes in travel have broadened since then, but Niagara has never lost its power to astonish, and a visit remains a wonderful way for a couple to share something spectacular.
The falls themselves
Wikipedia's article on Niagara Falls describes a group of three waterfalls at the southern end of the Niagara Gorge, spanning the border between the Canadian province of Ontario and the U.S. state of New York. The largest, Horseshoe Falls, straddles the international border and is also known as the Canadian Falls, while the smaller American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls lie within the United States. The article notes that the falls are famed for their beauty and are a valuable source of hydroelectric power.
Standing close to so much falling water is a physical experience. You hear it before you see it, feel the mist on your skin, and watch the light play in the spray. On sunny days, rainbows hang over the gorge.
Two sides of the border
Because the falls straddle an international border, visitors can experience them from two countries. The Canadian side offers the broad, sweeping view of Horseshoe Falls that appears in so many photographs. The American side brings you close to the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, with viewpoints and walkways near the water. Many couples like to see both.
If you plan to cross between the two sides, bring the right travel documents for both countries and allow time for the border crossing, which can be busy at peak times. The Canada for couples guide has more on the Canadian side and on other romantic places in the country.
How Niagara became a honeymoon destination
According to Wikipedia, Niagara Falls is a well-known honeymoon and vacation destination for Canadians and Americans. The article explains that tourism at the falls became popular in the nineteenth century, becoming the area's main industry by the middle of that century, and that some of the earliest recorded honeymoon visits there date from the early nineteenth century. It is one of the oldest honeymoon traditions in North America, dating from a time when the whole idea of a wedding trip was still young; the honeymoon guide explains how the custom began.
For much of the following century, Niagara's reputation grew. Couples arrived by train and later by car, and the falls became part of countless family stories.
Planning a romantic visit
- Choose the season. Summer is lively and warm, with all attractions open. Spring and autumn are quieter and cooler. Winter can bring ice formations around the falls and a peaceful atmosphere, though some attractions close.
- Stay with a view. Rooms overlooking the falls are a splurge worth considering for a special night.
- See the falls at different times. Morning light, midday rainbows and evening illuminations each show them differently.
- Get close to the water. Boat trips and walkways near the base of the falls bring you into the spray. Expect to get wet.
- Explore beyond the falls. The surrounding region has riverside paths, parks, small towns and vineyards that are perfect for slower days.
Beyond the crowds
The main viewpoints can be very busy, especially on summer weekends. To find quieter moments, go early in the morning, walk a little further along the river, or visit on a weekday. Some of the most romantic experiences at Niagara are the simplest: a walk along the gorge at dusk, or standing together at the railing as the mist drifts past.
Marrying at the falls
Some couples choose to marry or renew their vows near the falls, continuing the long tradition. If you are considering it, find out about the legal requirements on the side of the border where you plan to marry; the where to marry guide explains the general questions to ask.
A classic for a reason
Niagara may be one of the oldest honeymoon destinations on the continent, but it is not old-fashioned. The falls are as powerful and beautiful as ever, and seeing them together is a reminder of why couples came here in the first place. For more ideas close to home, see romantic getaways in the USA.