Two cities in two countries share a Natural Wonder of the World: Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, and Niagara Falls, New York, USA.

These two cities share the thunder and glory of Niagara’s Horseshoe Falls curving between both nations.

They also share the same tourism tagline: “Honeymoon Capital of the World.”​

But do you know why, when, and how Niagara Falls earned this romantic reputation?

Well, the romantic history dates to the gilded dawn of the 19^th century. When two gorgeous and glamorous newlywed couples visited Niagara Falls, New York.

In 1801, Theodosia Burr, the brilliant daughter of the 3rd Vice President of the United States Aaron Burr, married Joseph Alston. Mr. and Mrs. Alston were the first recorded couple to visit Niagara Falls.

In 1803, Elizabeth Patterson, a beautiful debutante, married Jérôme Bonaparte, youngest brother of Napoleon Bonaparte. Monsieur et Madame Bonaparte also visited the mighty cataracts.

Travel to New York State’s western edge wasn’t easy, of course. But deep pockets, large entourages, high-profile relationships, and local hospitality helped to ease the way.

In 1825, the Erie Canal opened in New York State, followed shortly thereafter by railroads in both nations.

These transportation innovations transformed travel across North America, and made Niagara Falls easier for “bridal tourists” and everyone to visit.

In the 1950s, Niagara Falls began a stratospheric tourism boom. When Marilyn Monroe, Joseph Cotten, Jean Peters, and Max Showalter starred as two honeymooning couples in the 1953 film noir, Niagara.

Reader, here’s to love and travel that creates tales to tell and moments to echo in memory.

Until next time,

Travel on, sparkle on, meaningfully✨

Marilee + Paul Kostadimas
Spotlight Sojourns | Slow Travel
​with the Hidden Gemologists®

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PS: For a deeper dive on these romantic stories, including Marilyn Monroe’s real-life romance while filming Niagara, click HERE to read our article on the “Honeymoon Capital of the World.”

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