Proposing marriage to the love of your life is a tradition that goes back hundreds of years. Whatever your relationship, whatever kind of couple you are, we bet you have some ideas about how you’d like to propose to your partner or have them propose to you. As Westchester & New York proposal photographers, we’ve seen a gorgeous handful of timeless, iconic spots to propose in NYC.

If the Big Apple is on your mind as a place you’d like to pop the question, then you might be thinking about where exactly to make your grand proposal! Here are some of the best spots to get engaged in New York City right now.

Planning the Perfect Proposal Spot in NYC

Proposing to your other half ranks as one of the most important milestones of your life. Right up there with buying your first home, walking down the aisle and becoming a parent. This is a moment that only happens once, so it’s something you’ll want to get right – right?

You’ll have seen all the different ways a proposal can go. Flash mob, anyone? From a quiet proposal in your own home, with just the two of you to something more public and grand with friends and family in your favorite hotel and every variation in between, the only limit is your imagination. And we’ll happily be there to capture it in whatever form it takes.

Aside from all the planning, which we’ll be so excited to work through with you, here are our top tips for the perfect proposal.

Choose a Meaningful Spot for the Two of You

That could be the place you met or had your first date, or somewhere that means a lot to you, your partner or even both of you. We’ve photographed proposals at iconic spots in New York, but we’ve also done very personal spots. A couple has even had their Hudson Valley proposal photography done from right within their apartment!

Know Your Partner and What They Like

Be sure that what you plan is something your partner will love. For example, if they’re super shy, they won’t want a huge audience, so choose a private spot! Think about this: would they rather have a four-piece band and candles, or something simple by the skyline? Not everyone loves a flashy proposal, so be sure to consider their experience.

Practice Makes Perfect When it Comes to Proposing in NYC

Practice what you’re going to say before the day! Making a proposal can be nerve-wracking stuff, and you don’t want nerves or anxiety to get in the way of a beautiful moment. If you know what you want to say, practice it at least a few times so your message comes across clearly when the moment comes.

We’ve got a whole lot of advice about planning your proposal, so have a read for all the inspiration. But that’s enough about how. Let’s get to where to propose in NYC!

Where to Propose in Brooklyn Bridge Park

We know we talk about Brooklyn Bridge Park a lot here on this blog, but that’s because it’s one of the best places we know in New York City! Whether you’re having an engagement shoot or you’re planning to get engaged, you can’t go wrong with this space. 

The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic site that would make your proposal an incredible grand gesture. Take your beau up onto the bridge for a stroll in the sunshine and to enjoy the views of the city. And, while they’re distracted, you can get ready for your moment and surprise them!

Remember that the bridge gets pretty busy, though, as it’s a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. So, if you want it to be a more private proposal, head down there earlier in the day. Brooklyn Bridge Park itself is so beautiful. It is packed out with awesome spots where you can pick your moment.

Down on the waterfront, overlooking the river and that famous Manhattan skyline would create a picture-perfect moment. Or get down on one knee in the middle of Washington Street for a truly epic proposal shot. We’re big fans of pretty much anywhere in DUMBO too. There’s so much choice for the most beautiful “getting engaged” photos around here.

NYC Marriage Proposal Ideas: The Vessel

The Vessel at Hudson Yards is an unusual and artistic addition to New York City. It would make a unique backdrop to your New York proposal. With its honeycomb grid of steps and walkways, it creates a breathtaking view. And we bet the views from the top are pretty spectacular too! 

However you picture a proposal happening at The Vessel, we would love to be there to capture it for you. You can also choose a seamless view of the city at The Edge at Hudson Yards, one of the most stunning places in New York to propose. This unobstructed view will make you feel like you’re on top of the world as you take a knee.

Central Park Proposal Spots

As one of New York’s largest parks, Central Park is a super popular choice for couples to propose in NYC. It has to be one of the most romantic options for getting engaged in New York City. Especially when you think of all the iconic Hollywood romantic moments that have happened there!

There are far too many areas of the park to mention. Choose a beautiful bridge, like Gapstow Bridge or Bow Bridge, or head to the rocks or the lake for so many pretty spots to pop that question.

Use the excuse of taking your pup for a walk, and we’ll be ready and waiting at your chosen spot. Or maybe just enjoy a stroll through the gorgeous trees and their fall colors (or those beautiful spring blossoms!). Remember, it’s all about choosing your spot and moment and letting us know the plan so we can be there to capture the moment you get engaged!

Get Engaged at Gantry Plaza State Park

Over in Queens, Gantry Plaza State Park is a pretty spot to propose in NYC. Overlooking the midtown area of NYC, you’ll have buildings like the Empire State Building in the background for that classic New York feel. And while it might be a smaller park than some, there are still so many pretty little areas that we can wander around. We’ll be able to get some more pictures of the two of you once you’ve asked the all-important question!

Propose in NYC at the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Brooklyn Heights Promenade, otherwise known as the Esplanade, is a half kilometer long walkway with all kinds of incredible viewpoints and backdrops for the perfect NYC proposal. There’s not a single point that wouldn’t make an excellent spot for you to take that knee and ask that special question.

It works as a great place to plan a totally surprise proposal, too because we can mingle with the other walkers while we wait and get into position. Can you tell we’ve photographed a few NYC proposals before? We especially love the promenade for its views of Brooklyn Bridge and for the fact that it’s a little less obvious than some of the other locations we’ve mentioned. If you’re a New York local, you’ll know what we mean by that!

The great thing about the Brooklyn Heights Promenade is that you’ll get a pretty unobstructed view of the NYC skyline. With Lower Manhattan in the background, this location is perfect day or night for a proposal. As New York City proposal photographers we’ll help you scout out the best locations on the promenade for where to pop the question.

Take in the Views at Marsha P Johnson State Park

The Marsha P Johnson State Park, also known as the East River State Park, is another little-known Brooklyn spot that is a great place for proposal photos. We love its little beach overlooking the East River and Manhattan. Situated in Williamsburg, it has some super cool historic remnants dotted around, like old cobblestone paths and railroad tracks embedded into the ground. 

It might be one of the smaller parks we’ve mentioned, but it’s filled with tons of awesome areas for you to ask your partner that special question! A lot of our couples are dog fans, and this is a great place to bring your pooch for a bit of a walk and then carry out your surprise proposal.

Pop the Question in Prospect Park, Brooklyn

Another fabulous Brooklyn treasure, we love Prospect Park as an alternative to Central Park if you want something less populated. With more than 500 acres to wander, there are so many beautiful spots where you can have your perfect New York proposal moment.

There are often musicians playing by the boathouse in Prospect Park during the evenings. This could set a super romantic scene for your Brooklyn proposal photos. Nearby, there’s also Lullwater Bridge on the pond, a truly cinematic location for your love story. You could also go for Binnen Bridge and the hidden waterfall – one of Prospect Park’s open secrets.

We especially love Grand Army Plaza for its impressive archway at the entrance to the park. Or if you want to go somewhere a little less public, consider the Brooklyn Botanic Garden right across the street. It’s ticketed, so there will definitely be fewer people there.

Propose in the Cinematic Madison Square Park

You can’t get more New York than in the heart of it. Madison Square Park, slap bang in the middle by Fifth and Broadway at 23rd Street, is about as central Manhattan as you’re ever gonna get.

It might not seem the typical place for a surprise proposal, and this is not one for the shy or retiring couple! You’re in the middle of the city, and this is a genuine grand gesture because everyone is going to know you’re getting engaged in New York City when you propose here.

With views of the iconic Flatiron Building, we love how old-school New York this neighborhood feels. And there’s definitely an incredible atmosphere here that would work great for that moment the two of you get engaged.

Plus – you can grab a burger and fries at the ultra-iconic Shake Shack in the park in this cinematic proposal location. We love a romantic dinner paired with a chocolate shake. Late-night wedding snack inspiration, anyone?!

Other Iconic Spots for Marriage Proposals in New York

We’ve highlighted a ton of great locations to pop the question in NYC. But there’s even more because the city is absolutely packed with gorgeous spots. Let’s take a look at some other iconic, romantic spots to propose in New York City.

Timeless Love Stories Start in Times Square

New Yorkers don’t always love Times Square. But you’ve got to admit, Times Square does have its charms at night. Pop the question with glowing signs in the background, street performers, and a huge crowd of strangers who will definitely cheer you on. We’ve even done a proposal near Times Square where the couple ended up on the news!

360º Views While You Propose in NYC at the Empire State Building

Get engaged at the Empire State Building for a scene straight out of a movie. Bring your partner up to the top for 360 views of the Manhattan skyline. Let them use the viewing area, then take a knee behind them to propose. They can enjoy the gorgeous views of the city while they say yes!

Pop the Question at the Top of the Rock

There’s no better place to pop the question than at the top of the Rockefeller Center in New York City. With amazing 360-degree views of Manhattan, it’s a romantic and awe-inspiring spot to ask your loved one to marry you. You can either make a reservation at the Rock Club, or purchase tickets to go to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck.

Intimate Moments at the One World Observatory

If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, consider proposing at One World Observatory. You can buy tickets to have a private dinner in the Sky Pod, or simply propose at the edge of the floor-to-ceiling windows for an unforgettable view. No matter where you choose to pop the question, make sure to plan ahead and book your reservation well in advance!

Propose at The Edge in New York

Looking to propose in a unique and memorable way? Look no further than The Edge in New York City. Situated in the heart of Manhattan, The Edge offers 360-degree views of the city and beyond. Whether your sweetheart is an avid birdwatcher or just loves to take in the sights, this is an unforgettable and romantic experience. If you’re looking to make a night of it, we recommend planning your visit during the day and spending the evening in the city. You could also pop the question with the iconic, glittery night time view of NYC.

Romantic, Intimate Proposal Spot in NYC’s Battery Park

Get views of the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park at the end of Manhattan. Choose a gorgeous spot while the sun is setting for a timeless, romantic proposal. This unique place to get engaged will have fewer people than the Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock, but just as much impact.

The Best Places to Propose in NYC

As you can see, there are so many fabulous places to get engaged in New York City. And we know we’ve barely scratched the surface! Wherever you decide to ask the question, if you’d like it captured on camera, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch, and let’s start planning your Hudson Valley proposal photography!