If you are looking for a honeymoon destination within the United States, consider a place where newly married love has been in its "mist" for hundreds of years: Niagara Falls, New York.
Niagara Falls is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world. Honeymooner's fascination with Niagara Falls began over two hundred years ago when Theodosia Burr (daughter of former vice president Aaraon Burr) and her husband Joseph Alston honeymooned there. Three years later, Napolean Bonaparte's younger brother and his new wife make the trek to Niagara Falls as well and the popularity of this region as a honeymoon haven for the rich and famous--as well as those "normal" newlyweds wishing to emulate them--was born.
Today, over 50,000 honeymooners still travel to Niagara Falls each year! The obvious draw of Niagara Falls is its water. There are three water falls in the Niagara Falls region--Rainbow and Bridal Veil Falls on the American side and the largest--Horseshoe Falls--on the Canadian. All three falls are in very close proximity and are just a short and beautiful stroll away from one another. Lore has it that he negative ions generated by the falling water of the Falls are thought to be a strong aphrodisiac, and another of the reason of the region's honeymooning popularity. Living close to the Falls and visiting them often, I can attest to the strange power of the Falls. Whenever my husband and I visit, we are awed at their power, beauty, and voracity--they definitely do have a magical, mesmerizing, quality about them that always leads to a very romantic feeling. There are very few things more romantic then a kiss with the one you love in front of the Falls or while riding the Maid of the Mist boat under them (a must do for an Niagara Falls visitor!)
While the water is what primarily attracts honeymooners to the Falls, there are other things to do as well. Both Niagara Falls, New York and Canada are quite touristy and you can easily spend a day or two visiting the shops, wax museums, haunted houses, and other attractions. The New York side also boosts a wonderful Butterfly Conservatory and park where many newlyweds go to get their wedding photos taken. It is quite romantic to stroll around the park (or take a buggy ride) and see brides and grooms celebrating the happy moments you recently did. Another popular place in Niagara Falls is Casino Niagara in the heart of the Canadian district. The American side is in the process of building a casino as well. There are plenty of places to lodge on both sides of the Falls and my only suggestion for choosing where to stay is one with a view of the Falls from your room, other then that, it is personal preference. Lodging ranges from the large, modern, Hilton, to small independent motels with heart shaped jacuzzis in the room, to cozy bed and breakfasts close to the park. With nearly 4,000 rooms on the American side along, there are more then enough places to stay for every pocketbook and personality.
Niagara Falls is quite busy! If you are looking for a "relaxing" place to honeymoon, this may not be the right choice--however, it would be a wonderful place to visit for one or two days and then go to the Niagara-On-The-Lake district (about twenty miles North of the Falls) The historic Lake area is home to many boutiques, bed and breakfasts, restaurants, and the Shaw Festival. There are also many wineries nearby. Another option would be to combine your Niagara Falls visit with a trip to Toronto, Canada. Toronto is an amazing city teeming with great restaurants, fine lodging, and many cultural, shopping, and sporting opportunities. Toronto is about a one and a half hour drive from Niagara Falls and well worth it.
As a Western, New Yorker, I never get sick of visiting Niagra Falls. The falls themselves are awe inspiring each time I see them and their power and age always remind me that life is short, so fill it with happiness and love. Happiness and love: Niagara Falls.
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