Your Niagara Falls Proposal: Queen Victoria Park versus Oaks Garden Theatre

I am a Niagara Falls based photographer, and I do a ton of proposals. A lot of people travel here from all over the world to propose to their partners and everyone wants to be "in front of the Falls". I recommend one of two parks, Queen Victoria Park and Oaks Garden Theatre. Two totally different parks with different feels and they are a 10 minute walk apart.

 

 

Queen Victoria Park, with its colourful, manicured gardens and stunning views of Niagara Falls, is a photographer's dream. I can't even begin to count the number of times I've been completely lost in the moment, capturing the perfect shot of the falls through a veil of vibrant blooms. The park is teeming with life, and every image captures a different facet of its beauty. It's a place that never fails to inspire awe, and photographing it is an experience I enjoy.

The pros of Queen Victoria Park (or QVP as I like to call it) is that it's directly across from the Falls. You can park at Niagara Parks Police station and you are steps away from all that you came to see! This park is perfect in the winter and non tourist months. It's also stunning first thing in the morning.

The cons to this park, parking at Niagara Parks Police station can be pricey and during peak times, near impossible to get a spot. Often times when events are being held at the Falls they will close this parking lot completely. It's also a tricky park during peak times as it's very busy. You are guarenteed to have a tourist walk in front of you as you take a knee!

 

On the other hand, we have the Oaks Garden Theatre, an oasis of tranquillity amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. The serenity of this place is something that I find incredibly soothing. As a photographer, the theatre's blend of formal and romantic styles presents a unique challenge, pushing me to think outside the box. The meticulously maintained flower beds, the classic Greek amphitheatre, the ornamental pool - each element adds to the charm of this place. It's a spot that offers a sense of calm, a respite from the chaos, and it's a pleasure to be able to capture that in my photographs.

The pros of Oaks Garden Theatre (or OGT as I like to call it) is that it's a park where people go to relax. To have lunch, a coffee or just to sit and take in the view. While there's a good chance there will be tourists around there are more places to hide and tourists arn't bustling through. There is parking near by but keep in mind it's a bit of a walk. Oaks Garden definitely has more variety for your engagement shoot following your proposal.

The cons of OGT is that it's down from the Falls (this could be a pro depending on how you look at it) so the Falls aren't directly in the background. Sometimes weddings are happening in this park so while it is a public park we need to be mindful and respectful of that.

 

 

I'm not just a photographer, but also a storyteller. I believe in creating genuine connections with the people and places I photograph. I feel a deep sense of gratitude for each opportunity to be part of someone's story, to capture their precious moments. That's what drives me each day - the chance to make a difference, to touch lives through my work.

 

If you have questions about either of these spots or your proposal, I am happy to help!!