5 Best Places to Propose in the United States (2025)

Planning a proposal this year? We’re so excited for you! Getting engaged is a huge step, and that means there’s a lot to do. We’re here to make your to-do list a little lighter, from helping you find the right engagement ring to tracking down the best places to propose across the country. Find the perfect spot, then propose with the perfect ring.

Proposal location is important. In fact, 34% of proposals take place in a scenic spot (The Knot). Plus, 35% of Americans said they would change their proposal location (New York Post) if given the chance. This goes to show that many people put emphasis on where their engagement takes place, wanting somewhere that’s both meaningful and beautiful. Here are the current best places to propose in the U.S. 

1. Central Park, New York City

There’s no place like New York City! For the city girl, an NYC proposal is a dream come true. There’s so much to do, from shows to rooftop bars and, of course, the famous park at the center of it all. Central Park is the country’s most visited park with 42 million annual visitors (Experience NYC). 

It provides the perfect combination of nature with the city right there in the background. Propose in front of the trees, then celebrate by dressing up and going for a night out on the town. 

Central Park Proposal Ideas

Pop the question at one of the best proposal locations in NYC. Gapstow Bridge is one of the most iconic spots in Central Park, perfect for a sunset proposal. Listen to nearby musicians at Bethesda Terrace, or book a private rowboat on the lake. Propose in front of the breathtaking Belvedere Castle or take a picnic to Sheep Meadow. If you want Instagram-worthy pictures with less people around, we recommend getting there early in the morning. 

Best Time of Year to Propose in Central Park

Any time of year is great to propose in Central Park, but we especially recommend late spring for blooming flowers or fall for vibrant autumn colors. You also can’t go wrong with a snowy holiday proposal, complete with a carriage ride.

Celeste Engagement Ring

For an engagement ring that fits New York’s vibe, we recommend something chic but unique like the Celeste Engagement Ring. Its mix of baguette and round natural diamond accents pair with the center stone of your choice for a twist on a classic (which speaks to what NYC is all about). 

2. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Does she love getting outdoors and exploring national parks? Whether you’re both active hikers or simply appreciate the natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon is the perfect place for an unforgettable proposal.  

According to National Geographic, the Grand Canyon is a hot destination with over 4.7 million visitors a year. It offers a display of natural beauty you won’t find anywhere else. Make it a desert getaway complete with hikes, sunsets, and spa treatments, or pair your trip with other national parks for the adventure of a lifetime.

Grand Canyon Proposal Ideas

There are so many different options to choose from when picking your proposal spot! Consider a sunrise proposal at Desert View Watchtower, or a sunset hike on the South Kaibab Trail. Sunset tends to be the best time for photos at the Grand Canyon, when the light is warm and the sun is less intense. Helicopter tours and guided mule rides are popular in the Grand Canyon, and you can book one to pop the question at the most magical moment.

Best Time of Year to Propose at the Grand Canyon

We recommend visiting the Grand Canyon in the spring or summer for your proposal. The weather is especially mild and pleasant during these seasons. When planning your trip, keep in mind that the South Rim is open all year, but the North Rim is closed during the winter months.

Lab-Grown Diamond Bezel Engagement Ring

If your partner is adventurous, look for a ring that’s ideal for an active lifestyle. We like a secure bezel-set ring for outdoorsy folks, since the diamond is protected by the surrounding metal. Check out this Lab-Grown Diamond Bezel Engagement Ring to complete your Grand Canyon proposal. 

If you’re local to Arizona or visiting Phoenix before trekking up to the Grand Canyon, be sure to visit Shane Co. in Chandler or Scottsdale to find a ring they’ll love. And if you’re looking for another national park location, check out White Sands National Park.

“White Sands, New Mexico is an amazing place to drop to one knee and propose to your love!”

Connor, Shane Co. Jewelry Consultant

With close to 15 million annual visitors (Statista), the Golden Gate Bridge is another U.S. location known for its beauty. Picture a San Francisco morning with a sunrise peeking through the fog above the bay. The iconic red bridge is in the background while you get on one knee and propose to the love of your life. The incredible backdrop is what makes the Golden Gate Bridge one of the best places to propose in California. 

If she would love a trip that combines the outdoors with city markets, a historic art scene, and delicious restaurants, San Francisco is the perfect location. Propose by the bay, then enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer. 

Golden Gate Bridge Proposal Ideas

There are many great spots to propose around the Golden Gate Bridge. We recommend booking a local photographer to capture the moment. Check out Baker Beach at golden hour or take a picnic to Crissy Field. Other popular locations include Batteries to Bluffs Trail, Slackers Hill, Kirby Cove, and Battery Spencer. Take a cruise over the bay and pop the question underneath the bridge. 

Best Time of Year to Propose at the Golden Gate Bridge

The best time of year to visit the Golden Gate Bridge is between September and November. The weather is pleasant and less foggy that time of year. Pack layers because a warm day may turn into a cool or rainy evening. Spring is another good time of year to visit, but keep in mind it will be chilly with heavier fog. 

Bree Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Ring

California is known as the Golden State, so a gold engagement ring is the perfect ode to this proposal spot. The local style is sleek but practical, with an emphasis on dressing for the outdoors and wearing cutting edge technology. We recommend an engagement ring like this Bree Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Ring for a modern, sleek look. 

While you’re in the Bay Area, come by and see us at one of the nearby Shane Co. locations in San Mateo, Walnut Creek, or Cupertino.

4. Fountains of Bellagio, Las Vegas

Does she love glitz, glam, and always going big? Las Vegas is the perfect place for the showstopper who wants a bold proposal with lots of pizzazz. Get down on one knee with a sparkling ring in the city known for its lights, romance, and dramatic flair. 

The Bellagio Resort, a 5-Star hotel in Las Vegas, is one of the best places to propose in Las Vegas. It’s famous due to its dancing fountain show that brings in over 15 million visitors per year (Statista). Several times every day, the fountains are set to dance to lively music in a stunning display of grandeur. 

Fountains of Bellagio Proposal Ideas

Visit the fountain show while a love song is playing for a proposal they’ll never forget. Stroll alongside the fountains at night for an even more picturesque view. You can also book a dinner that overlooks the fountains at a well-known restaurant like Picasso, Eiffel Tower Restaurant, or Yellowtail. Stay in the resort afterwards to celebrate your new engagement!

Best Time of Year to Propose at the Bellagio Fountains

Like many of the locations on this list, spring or fall are the best times to visit Las Vegas when the temperatures are cool and comfortable. Winter is another great time to visit, as it tends to be less crowded and the mild weather is nice. 

Vista Halo Engagement Ring

In Las Vegas, you need a big, dazzling ring to fit the vibe of the city! The Vista Halo Engagement Ring sparkles and shines like no other. It’s perfect for a diamond diva who loves all things Las Vegas and glamour. 

5. Millennium Park, Chicago

If she loves a city with a rich history, beautiful buildings, and incredible food, Chicago is the perfect place to propose. It speaks to the classy girl who enjoys art and would appreciate a scenic, urban background to the proposal.

Millennium Park is a must-see urban center located in the heart of Chicago. Here, you’ll find gardens, art, and the iconic Cloud Gate statue (AKA “The Bean”). Over 4 million people visit Millennium Park every year (Chicago Architecture Center). Propose at this quintessential Chicago location, then celebrate out on the town. 

Millennium Park Proposal Ideas

There are plenty of options when it comes to proposing in Millennium Park. Stop in front of The Bean and take photos with skyline reflections in the background. Visit Lurie Garden for a tranquil nature proposal with the city in the background. Another option is a summer concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion or a winter proposal at the iconic ice rink.

Best Time of Year to Propose in Millennium Park

Summer is a prime time to visit Millennium Park because it’s always lively with lots going on. While Chicago gets pretty cold in the winter, it’s also the perfect spot for a holiday proposal in December. There will be holiday lights and snowy surroundings, setting a scene as charming as a snow globe.

Art Deco Engagement Ring

Chicago is known for its stunning architecture, including Art Deco styles throughout the city. This gorgeous Art Deco Engagement Ring with baguette natural diamond accents and a natural diamond pavé band, sparkles just like the city lights. 

Bonus Places to Propose: Shane Co. Insider Edition

There’s nothing quite like a firsthand proposal recommendation! We asked around to see where Shane Co. employees got engaged or favorite romantic spots they always suggest. We just had to share a few of these beautiful locations. 

Dillon Reservoir, Colorado

“We went camping at Dillon Reservoir with our two kids in July of 2017. While we were playing a game in our tent, she proposed to me and even asked my daughter, who was 6 at the time, if she was ok with her marrying me. Of course she said yes and I said yes!  Dillon is a beautiful place!”

Erika P.

Grand Lake, Colorado

“My husband proposed to me in Grand Lake, CO. We were there with family to watch the Perseid meteor shower. While on a boat tour, he found the perfect time to ask the captain to turn the boat just enough for the mountains and view to be behind us so he could propose! 

Grand Lake is a beautiful little town with so many fun things happening on the water and off. It is such a great area and so close to Rocky Mountain National Park.”

Kenni R.

 Missouri Botanical Garden and the Gateway Arch

Michelle L., Assistant Operations Manager in our St. Louis store, shared a couple of her favorite proposal spots around the St. Louis area. The stunning Missouri Botanical Garden is a gorgeous place to pop the question, thanks to its diverse grounds and incredible conservatory. 

The Gateway Arch is another iconic St. Louis location — propose in front of the famous arch, then celebrate on a nearby river cruise. The city has a lot to offer and is a great place to get engaged!

No matter where you choose to propose, the most important thing is to make sure it’s the right place for you and your future fianceé. Whether it’s somewhere that’s special to you as a couple or a destination city they’ve always wanted to visit, you know they’re going to love it from this list of best proposal locations. For help finding the perfect ring, chat online with one of our expert jewelry consultants or visit your closest Shane Co. store.

Be sure to comment with your favorite proposal spots below, and tag us on Instagram once you pop the question — we can’t wait!