Niagara Falls is actually a collection of three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls (called by some the Canadian Falls), the American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, and for decades couples have made the trek to elope amid its majesty. Horseshoe Falls is definitely the most spectacular of the three falls, which is something to keep in mind when planning your wedding photos.
Some say the Canadian side is the place you should go to elope, as it has more tourist options, such as:
Fallsview Casino Resort
This resort overlooks the falls and affords couples with stunning views. In addition to the gaming opportunities (slots, poker and other table games), the Fallsview Casino Resort includes several different wedding packages. You can choose from the elopement package starting at $400, to the Trillion Wedding Package, which, among other things, includes: a two night hotel stay, dinner for two, breakfast in bed one of the mornings, brunch in the Grand Buffet overlooking the falls and a massage for two, for $1590.00. (Prices quoted are in Canadian dollars). There are other packages in between, including a vow renewal package. Couples have the option of exchanging vows on an outdoor terrace overlooking the Falls, or at the chapel in the resort. Call 1-866-789-VOWS for more information.
Minolta Tower
Situated 525 above the Falls, the Minolta Tower is another must-see. Included in the tower is an indoor observation deck, restaurant, hotel, and, for the bride and groom, a wedding chapel. Weddings are coordinated through Niagara Fallsview Weddings (1-866-325-5785) and range from the Bronze package ($649 CDN) to the Platinum package ($2549 CDN), which includes a two-night stay in one of their luxurious rooms overlooking the Falls, professional photos of your ceremony, as well as photos taken in the park, dinner overlooking the Falls, breakfast, and a Niagara-on-the-Lake Limo tour, a 3-hour-tour of Niagara-on-the-Lake and local wineries. There are other packages in between, as well as a vow renewal package and wedding packages for same-sex couples.
Maid of the Mist Boat Tour of Niagara Falls
Don't wear your wedding dress on this boat ride, unless of course your wedding dress is a rain slicker. Boats take visitors to the base of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, then into the spray of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls to get a much closer Falls experience. A disposable rain jacket is provided. Definitely a must-see for the newlyweds.
Journey Behind the Falls
The "Journey Behind the Falls" consists of tunnels behind Horseshoe Falls which allow visitors to view the cascading water in front of open cave entrances. Again, raincoats are provided.
Niagara Falls Aviary
If you and your fiancé or significant other are into birds, then you might want to head on over to the Niagara Falls Aviary, the world's largest indoor aviary, comprised of 50,000 sq feet of tropical rainforest. You'll find over 400 free flying birds inside the aviary.
Niagara Falls may not be one of the "Seven Wonders," but it is surely one of the top wedding capitals of the world. If you're considering an elopement site, put Niagara Falls at the top of the list.
Shari Hearn is a writer and website owner. She recommends you visit her sites, Wedding Locations and DNA Paternity Tests (for information on using DNA tests to aid in your ancestry search.)