Franklin Dean
The Poconos in Pennsylvania, Niagara Falls, and the Pocono Mountains were once considered the Honeymoon Capital of the World. However, over the years, several resorts in these regions have closed down. The Summit Resort in Tannersville closed in 2002, and the Penn Hills Resort in Analomink, Pennsylvania, closed in 2009. The decline of these honeymoon destinations can be attributed to various factors, including economic collapse, changes in travel trends, and the rise of other exotic locations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Original Honeymoon Capital of the World | Niagara Falls, USA |
| Became famous as a honeymoon destination | 1801 |
| Famous first honeymooning couple | Theodosia Burr and Joseph Alston |
| Second famous honeymooning couple | Jerome Bonaparte and his bride |
| Development of the travel industry | Couples started heading to far-flung locations |
| Marketing as a honeymoon spot | "Honeymoon Capital of the World" |
| Railroads | More convenient travel |
| Erie Canal | More tourists |
| Photography and videography | More people were able to admire the falls |
| Film "Niagara" | Capitalized on the romance of the location |
| Current status | Still considered the Honeymoon Capital of the World by some |
| Alternative Honeymoon Capital of the World | Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania |
| Honeymoon Capital decline | 1990s |
| Penn Hills Resort closed | 2009 |
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What You'll Learn
- The original honeymoon capital of the world was Niagara Falls, USA
- Niagara Falls gained popularity in 1801 when Theodosia Burr honeymooned there
- Railroads and canals made the Falls more accessible to tourists
- The Poconos in Pennsylvania became the new honeymoon capital in the 1960s
- Resorts in the Poconos have since closed down or been abandoned
The original honeymoon capital of the world was Niagara Falls, USA
The original "Honeymoon Capital of the World" was Niagara Falls, USA. Nestled along Lake Ontario, the beautiful countryside of Niagara Falls has given rise to one of the world's best wine regions. The natural wonder of the falls has attracted newlyweds for over 215 years, including famous couples like Theodosia Burr, the daughter of US Vice President Aaron Burr, and her husband, Joseph Alston, the future governor of South Carolina. A few years later, Jérôme Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon, and his bride also honeymooned at Niagara Falls.
The completion of the Erie Canal in the 1820s and the development of railroads in New York and Southern Canada made it easier for tourists to visit Niagara Falls. The 20th century brought even more tourists, attractions, and hype to the region. The natural beauty of the falls, combined with the development of the travel industry, led to Niagara Falls becoming a popular honeymoon destination. The slogan "Honeymoon Capital of the World" was coined in the early 1900s, and the city was featured in films such as the 1953 Marilyn Monroe movie "Niagara," further cementing its reputation as a romantic getaway.
Today, Niagara Falls continues to offer a range of romantic dining options, scenic views, and attractions for couples seeking a honeymoon destination. The Falls Illumination Cruise, the Maid of the Mist boat ride, and the opportunity to walk behind the falls provide unique experiences for visitors. The town also offers entertainment for families, including the Fallsview Casino & Resort. While some may argue that the claim of being the "Honeymoon Capital of the World" is a bold one, Niagara Falls remains a popular choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway, with its breathtaking scenery and array of activities.
However, it is important to note that other regions have also laid claim to the title of "Honeymoon Capital of the World." For example, in the early 1960s, romantic resort getaways began popping up in the Pocono Mountains region of Pennsylvania. The introduction of heart-shaped jacuzzis and other novelties attracted couples, leading to the region being dubbed the Honeymoon Capital of the World. Resorts such as the Summit Resort and Penn Hills Resort flourished for decades before suffering a decline and eventual closure.
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Niagara Falls gained popularity in 1801 when Theodosia Burr honeymooned there
Niagara Falls has been considered the "Honeymoon Capital of the World" for more than 200 years. Its popularity as a honeymoon destination can be traced back to 1801 when Theodosia Burr, the daughter of U.S. Vice President Aaron Burr, and her new husband, Joseph Alston, the future governor of South Carolina, travelled from Albany to the Falls as part of their bridal tour. Theodosia Burr Alston, born on June 21, 1783, is credited with helping Niagara Falls become the "Honeymoon Capital of the World".
Theodosia and her husband were not the only notable couple to visit Niagara Falls. A few years later, Jérôme Bonaparte, the brother of Napoleon, and his bride travelled from New Orleans to Niagara Falls via stagecoach to experience its splendour. Originally, Niagara Falls was considered a destination for the wealthy. However, with the development of new rail lines and the opening of the Erie Canal, it became more accessible to couples from all walks of life.
The natural beauty and romantic allure of Niagara Falls, nestled along Lake Ontario, have continued to draw couples from all over the world. The surrounding countryside boasts charming towns, stunning scenery, and an emerging wine region. Couples can enjoy romantic dining experiences, such as intimate Italian cuisine in Lewiston or trendy restaurants in North Tonawanda. They can also participate in hands-on cooking classes at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute. The Niagara Falls State Parks offer leisurely walks and opportunities to take in the natural surroundings, providing an ideal atmosphere for couples to focus on each other.
While Niagara Falls remains a popular honeymoon destination, some have argued that the town has become a tourist trap, with accommodations not always meeting expectations. Nonetheless, it still holds a certain old Hollywood charm, and many couples continue to be drawn to its natural beauty and romantic atmosphere.
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Railroads and canals made the Falls more accessible to tourists
The original “Honeymoon Capital of the World” was in fact, Niagara Falls, nestled along Lake Ontario. The Falls have been a honeymoon destination for over 215 years, with the first famous couple to visit being Theodosia Burr, the daughter of U.S. Vice President Aaron Burr, and her husband, Joseph Alston, a wealthy landowner and future governor of South Carolina. They were followed by Jérôme Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon, and his bride. These trips were perilous, as the couples had to travel by packhorse or stagecoach, and camp along the way.
In the 19th century, Niagara Falls was considered a destination for the wealthy. However, with the opening of the Erie Canal in the 1820s, tourists could travel on the "northern tour" to reach the Falls. The development of railroads in New York and Southern Canada a few decades later further increased accessibility for tourists, as it allowed for faster and more comfortable travel to the area.
The 20th century brought a shift to Niagara Falls, with more tourists, attractions, and hype. The development of photography and videography technology allowed people to admire the Falls from afar, and the 1953 film "Niagara", starring Marilyn Monroe, further capitalised on the romance of the location. The city was abuzz as the film was shot, and since then, Niagara Falls has been the setting for several on-screen romances.
Today, Niagara Falls continues to be a popular honeymoon destination, with its romantic allure, gorgeous views, and array of attractions. Couples can enjoy romantic dining options, a Falls Illumination Cruise, and even obtain a "We Honeymooned in Niagara Falls USA" certificate.
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The Poconos in Pennsylvania became the new honeymoon capital in the 1960s
The Poconos' popularity as a honeymoon destination was also influenced by its accessibility. With the advent of interstates 80 and 81 in the late 1950s and 1960s, the Pocono Mountains became more easily reachable by car, attracting visitors from New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. The region's ski industry thrived during this period, with new ski areas opening and drawing even more visitors. The first commercial ski area in Pennsylvania opened in the Pocono Mountains in 1946, establishing the region as a go-to winter sports destination.
The Poconos also boasted family-owned resorts that offered a more intimate atmosphere compared to large commercial hotels. These resorts provided a range of activities and amenities such as swimming pools, lakes for fishing, hiking trails, and children's programs, making them a beloved choice for families and couples alike. The first honeymoon resort in the area, The Farm on the Hill, opened in 1945, setting a trend for plush resorts in the 1940s and 1950s.
The Poconos' reputation as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World" was further enhanced by features such as heart-shaped tubs and sexy suites, which were showcased in Life Magazine. The region's natural beauty, including its mountains, rivers, and trees, provided the perfect backdrop for romantic getaways. Resorts like the Pocono Palace Resort in Marshalls Creek, part of the Cove Haven Entertainment Resorts, catered specifically to couples, offering private suites, massage and spa services, and outdoor activities.
While the Poconos thrived as the Honeymoon Capital for several decades, the 1990s brought an era of change, with some resorts closing down and others renovating to stay competitive. Today, the Poconos still retain their allure, offering scenic beauty, romantic resorts, and a range of activities for couples and families alike.
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Resorts in the Poconos have since closed down or been abandoned
The Poconos region was once known as the "honeymoon capital of the world", with resorts offering luxury and seclusion to couples. However, many of these resorts have since closed down or been abandoned, with some falling into disrepair and becoming popular sites for urban explorers.
One of the most well-known abandoned resorts in the Poconos is the Penn Hills Resort, which operated from 1944 until 2009 when its owner, Frances Poalillo, passed away at the age of 102. The resort, which billed itself as a "Paradise of Pocono Pleasure", featured shag carpeting, heart-shaped tubs, and expansive mirrors. After its closure, the property was sold off in pieces, and it fell into a state of decay, with nature beginning to reclaim the land.
Another abandoned resort in the Poconos is the Mount Airy Lodge, which once spanned 1200 acres and had 895 rooms. The resort went into foreclosure in 1999 and was ultimately closed and demolished in 2001. The property was sold and redeveloped into the new Mount Airy Casino Resort, which opened in 2004.
The Summit Resort is another example of a closed-down resort in the Poconos. It operated from 1967 to 2002 and featured heart-shaped tubs and a red leather bar. Despite plans to redevelop the property, it remains standing, with only the main building and a few abandoned cabins still intact.
The Buck Hill Falls Inn, originally a Quaker retreat, is yet another abandoned resort in the Poconos. While the resort complex remains active, offering cabins, a golf course, and social activities, the inn itself suffered from neglect and was partially closed in 1990. Today, the hotel is nothing more than a grassy field, serving as a memorial to the historic site.
The decline of these resorts can be attributed to various factors, including rising upkeep costs, competition from neighbouring states, and a shift in travel preferences. The closure of these once-popular honeymoon destinations has left a sense of nostalgia and attachment to the past for many who hold fond memories of their time spent in the Poconos.
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Frequently asked questions
Niagara Falls has been a popular honeymoon destination for over 200 years. The trend began when Theodosia Burr, the daughter of U.S. Vice President Aaron Burr, travelled there with her husband, Joseph Alston, shortly after their wedding in 1801. The couple was followed by Jérôme Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon, and his wife, who travelled from New Orleans to Niagara Falls by stagecoach.
Niagara Falls offers a range of romantic experiences for honeymooners, including the Falls Illumination Cruise, the Maid of the Mist boat ride, and walking tours behind the falls. The area also boasts great restaurants, such as Carmelo's in Lewiston, and trendy dining experiences in North Tonawanda. Couples can also visit the Niagara wineries, explore charming towns, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Several well-known honeymoon resorts in the Poconos region of Pennsylvania closed down in the 1990s. One such resort, the Summit Resort, closed in 2002, while the Penn Hills Resort closed in 2009 due to the owner's failure to pay back taxes. These resorts have since fallen into disrepair, with nature reclaiming the land.
Yes, while some resorts have closed, others have adapted and thrived. The Cove Haven Entertainment Resorts, for example, operates three successful resorts in the Poconos. Additionally, Niagara Falls remains a popular honeymoon destination, with its old Hollywood charm and romantic attractions.
Modern honeymoons prioritize personalization, with couples designing their perfect trip based on their interests, hobbies, and personalities. This often includes a mix of relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, and learning. Honeymoons can also vary in length, with some couples opting for "trip stacking," where they combine multiple vacations or extend their trip to spend time with friends and family.
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