While Niagara Falls has added more family-friendly attractions, it still remains the honeymoon capital of the world. It’s the perfect destination for a romantic trip, especially if you like to be active. We visited for our mini-moon and it was an experience we will never forget.
If you are thinking about visiting Niagara Falls with that special someone, plan to stay for at least a few days. There are many romantic things to do in Niagara Falls, so let’s take a look at all the options.
COVID-19 Notice: Most attractions are open with additional protections to keep travelers safe. Please check the website for the specific attraction you plan on visiting in advance to familarize yourself with changes which may include pre-booking requirements and/or masks.
Contents
Why is Niagara Falls known as the Honeymoon Capital?
People have been honeymooning in Niagara Falls longer than Canada has been a country. It all started back in 1801 when newly married 18-year-old Theodosia Burr, the daughter of U.S. Vice President Aaron Burr, visited with her husband, the future South Carolina governor Joseph Alston.
Since there were no cars or planes at the time, the couple had to travel from Albany, New York to Niagara Falls by packhorse. Of course, they brought several servants to help on the journey.
Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother, Jerome, also chose to honeymoon in Niagara with his new American wife, Elizabeth Patterson, a few years later in 1804. They made the trek all the way from New Orleans.
Niagara has been the setting for many memorable on-screen couples too. In Superman II, Lois Lane and Clark Kent are seen at the Falls where Superman has to rescue a boy who has fallen. In the tv series The Office, Jim and Pam notably said “I do” on a Niagara Falls boat tour in a 2009 episode. Back in 1953, Marilyn Monroe starred in the film Niagara, although it was more of a thriller than romantic movie.
Planning Your Romantic Trip to Niagara Falls
Niagara is a unique destination. It includes three waterfalls (Horseshoe or Canadian, American, and Bridal Veils Falls) across two countries. Some of the attractions are on the Canadian side and others are on the American side. Don’t try to see everything on a day trip. You will not be able to do it justice.
Many of the attractions involve water and you will probably get wet, so it’s important to be prepared. There are also many photo opportunities so don’t forget all the gear. You should give due consideration to the fact that there’s water and most cameras don’t like getting wet. This might be a good time to buy that GoPro you’ve been considering!
Be sure to grab my packing list for Niagara Falls.
Check out my list of the best places to stay in Niagara Falls.
Also read my tips for planning a trip to Niagara Falls.
14 Romantic Things to Do in Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls was just what we wanted for our mini-moon. The scenery provided the perfect backdrop for our getaway and there were plenty of romantic attractions so there was no chance we would get bored.
Since we could only stay in Niagara Falls for a few days, we didn’t get to do everything that was on my list. Still, we made so many memories that we will cherish for the rest of our lives. Let’s take a look at what there is to do in Niagara Falls for couples.
#1 Take a Helicopter Ride
Flying over Niagara Falls in a helicopter is one of the best ways to see the area. It gives you a different perspective that you can’t get from the ground. Sitting next to my husband and taking in these views is something I will never forget.
We shared the helicopter with the four other passengers. Since we had the front seat, it felt like it was just us and the pilot. The ride was only 12 minutes long, but we saw a lot. I thought it was worth the splurge because it’s one of those once in a lifetime experiences.
Check out our video to get a better idea of what to expect.
While we did our helicopter ride with Niagara Helicopters which is based on the Canadian side, there is also the option to do a helicopter ride with Rainbow Air on the USA side. Get more information here.
#2 Go Wine Tasting in Niagara on the Lake
Wine tasting is one of my favorite romantic activities and nearby Niagara on the Lake is full of high-quality boutique wineries. While they make a lot of different wines, the specialty of the area is a sweet dessert wine called ice wine that is made with grapes that have frozen while still on the vine. The Ice Wine Festival is one of the highlights in Niagara during the winter.
It’s best to take a tour if you want to visit the wineries in Niagara on the Lake. That way no one has to worry about being a designated driver. You can choose from half-day or full-day options. Most offer pick ups at Niagara Falls area hotels. See tour options available here.
Note: For those that prefer to drink beer, there are several craft breweries in the area. Check out the Niagara Ale Trail.
If you don’t feel like drinking, it’s still worth visiting Niagara on the Lake. The historical center is picturesque and can be explored by carriage. There are also lots of boutique shops and farm-to-table restaurants.
There is also wine tasting available on the USA side of the Falls. Check out this tour.
#3 Watch the Illuminations
At night, the Illuminations on Niagara Falls are something else. I could sit and watch the colors change for hours, it is mesmerizing. We were lucky to have the perfect view from our hotel room. It was nice to come back to the room at the end of a long day and enjoy the lights.
If you don’t feel like splurging to see the Falls from your hotel, it could be romantic to sit and watch from Queen Victoria Park if the weather is nice. There is also a nice view of the illuminations from the Niagara Skywheel.
Those that like to be part of the action might enjoy this special night tour. You get to control the lights of the Falls at Illumination Tower before enjoying a 3-course dinner at the Table Rock restaurant on the brink of the water.
#4 Experience a Niagara Falls Cruise
I’m not sure a trip to Niagara Falls is complete without taking a boat ride to see the Falls. Whether you choose the Niagara City Cruises by Hornblower or the Maid of the Mist, it will be an experience you won’t soon forget.
It’s not your typical boat tour. I didn’t expect the ride to be so intense. With the wind and mist close to the Horseshoe Falls, I couldn’t even see my husband who was standing right next to me. Then when the air cleared he appeared. We both had to laugh at how soaked we had gotten even with the ponchos.
We did our boat ride during the day, but it may be even more romantic if you take one of the evening tours. I can imagine the sight of the illuminations would be quite exceptional.
Check out our video to see what to expect.
#5 Go to the Cave of the Winds
The Cave of the Winds is the attraction that takes you closest to the Falls. It’s a series of walkways on the American side. In fact, if you go onto the Hurricane Deck, you can touch the Bridal Veil Falls. We took turns on the Hurricane Deck so we could film each other, but I think it could be fun to do it together and maybe even try to steal a kiss.
Similar to the Niagara Falls boat ride, you will get wet even if you wear the poncho, but that’s all part of the fun. Note that the full Cave of the Winds experience is only available during the summer.
Check out our video to see what to expect.
#6 Enjoy a Romantic Meal (Skylon Tower)
A candlelit dinner is always special, but you can take it to another level with views of Niagara Falls. There are actually several restaurants where you can admire the Falls, but the most dramatic may be the revolving one at the top of Skylon Tower. It silently rotates 360 degrees every hour, so the view is constantly changing during your meal.
Other restaurants with a view of the falls include Massimo’s Italian Fallsview, Milestones on the Falls, Watermark, and Morton’s Grille.
If you prefer to just take in the views without a meal, you can buy a ticket for the observation deck here.
#9 Take a Spin on the Niagara Skywheel
The Niagara Skywheel is more than a ferris wheel you might find at a carnival. It is one of the largest observation wheels in Canada and has some of the best views of the American and Canadian Falls. You will also be able to see other landmarks like the Rainbow Bridge.
Each gondola is fully enclosed so you don’t have to worry about the weather. It is air-conditioned in the summer and heated in the winter. The glass is non-reflective so you will be able to get some fantastic photos to help you remember the experience.
To make it more romantic, plan to do the Skywheel after sunset. The glittering lights in the area add to the atmosphere. There is the option to purchase tickets for just the Skywheel or if you want to check out other attractions at Clifton Hills, there are packages you can buy there. The ride only lasts 10-12 minutes so you will have time to also enjoy some of the other attractions at Clifton Hills if you like.
#10 Experience the Whirlpool Rapids
The Whirlpool Rapids is one of the most intense parts of a river you will ever see. It’s something special to experience with your other half. Depending on your level of adventure there are a few ways to see them.
The brave ones will want to take a boat ride. This is a thrill ride where you will want to hold onto each other tight. There are two options – dry and wet. The wet option does not have a cover so you will get wet. Don’t worry if you want to stay dry, the covered boat still offers just as much excitement.
Get more information about the Whirlpool Jet boat rides here.
If that’s a little outside your comfort zone, then there is the White Water Walk and/or the Whirlpool Aero Car. On the White Water walk, stroll hand in hand with your partner alongside the Niagara River. The vivid colors of the greenery against the turquoise of the water are striking and you can feel the intensity of the current.
After seeing the rapids close up, you can get an aerial view from the Whirlpool Aero Car. It’s an antique cable car that crosses the Niagara River (and back) high above the Class 6 whitewater rapids. It doesn’t move very fast, but those afraid of heights may find it stressful.
Both the White Water Walk and the Whirlpool Aero Car are included as part of the Niagara Falls Adventure Pass Classic pass.
#11 Go Ziplining
Daredevils may want to check out the Zipline on the Canadian side of the Falls. It takes you on a breathtaking ride into the gorge. You’ll travel down 670 metres (2,200 feet), soaring past the American Falls and landing atop the falls observation deck at the base of the Horseshoe Falls.
While you won’t be able to hold hands on the zipline, you can travel parallel to each other and try to catch a quick glimpse.
Get tickets for the zipline here.
#12 Go Hiking
The couple that sweats together stays together? For outdoor lovers there are plenty of trails in the area. It’s a fun way to spend some time together in nature. Be sure to stop along the way and take in the scenery.
Niagara Falls State Park has various options for different ability levels. There are also some challenging trails at the Niagara Glen on the Canadian side. If you don’t mind a short drive, you could also go to DeCew Falls, Ball’s Falls, or the Woodend Conservation Area.
#13 Do Some Birdwatching
The Niagara River is famous for its gulls and other migrating birds. It has been named an Important Bird Area (IBA). Some of the best spots to do bird watching along the Niagara River include Goat Island, Whirlpool State Park, Artpark, and Fort Niagara State Park.
Pack a picnic and grab some binoculars and head out with your sweetie. Find a cozy spot and enjoy each other’s company while you check out the wildlife.
#14 Visit the Botanical Gardens
We enjoy going to gardens together, the scent of the flowers just puts a smile on my face. The Botanical Gardens in Niagara Falls is almost 100 acres full of all kinds of flowers and other plants. They may be best known for their rose garden which has more than 2,400 roses.
It’s best to visit the Botanical Gardens in the summer, not just because the roses will be in bloom. On the weekends, you and your honey can take a guided horse and carriage tour of the gardens.
Get more information about the Botanical Gardens here.
Can you have a romantic trip to Niagara Falls?
Absolutely! Niagara Falls has been a top destination for couples seeking romance for decades. With its breathtaking views, beautiful scenery, and endless activities, it’s no wonder why so many people choose this location for their honeymoon or romantic getaway.
My own experience in Niagara Falls was unforgettable. My husband and I spent time went on romantic walks, enjoyed the illuminations at night, and even took a helicopter ride to get a bird’s-eye view of the falls. Each moment was magical and filled with romance.
There’s something about Niagara Falls that brings out the romance in everyone. Whether you’re cuddled up in a cozy hotel room, dining at a romantic restaurant, or taking a boat ride together, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy with your partner. And the memories you create here will last a lifetime.
So if you’re looking for a place to celebrate your love and create unforgettable memories together, Niagara Falls is definitely worth considering. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
-Anisa
Pin For Later
Expert Tips for Couples Visiting Niagara Falls
- If you are looking to splurge consider upgrading to a Falls view hotel room or doing a helicopter ride over the Falls.
- Niagara Falls is a year around destination and there are plenty of things to do no matter the season.
- If possible, plan at least three days in the Niagara Falls area.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means we will receive a small commission for some purchases made using links in our blog with no additional cost to you. Please be assured we would not promote any product unless we believe that our readers will also benefit. The commission does not influence the editorial content of this site.
Two Traveling Texans is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.
Last Updated on March 13, 2023