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Looking for the perfect place to pop the question? There’s no denying that in New York State we ❤️ love. Niagara Falls is the honeymoon capital of the world, New York City is the country’s most romantic city to propose in, and romance can be found around every corner of the state. Whether you choose a dramatic waterfall in the Finger Lakes or a luxurious castle in the 1000 Islands, your partner is bound to say “yes” with these 36 stunning New York proposal spots.
Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions and amenities are open and available. Masks are encouraged, but optional in most settings per New York State guidelines. Individual businesses or attractions may require mask wearing.
JUMP TO: Greater Niagara | New York City | Thousand Islands-Seaway | Hudson Valley | Chautauqua-Allegheny | Long Island | Central New York | Catskills | Finger Lakes | Adirondacks | Capital-Saratoga
Niagara Falls State Park
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Niagara Falls has long been considered the honeymoon capital of the world. There’s no doubt that romance is in the air. Why not propose in one of the most romantic and scenic places in the world? Beautiful spots can be found all over the 400-acre park, but for a spectacular shot try Prospect Point from the Observation Tower or the Cave of Winds (with Bridal Veil Falls in the background). To really surprise your love, propose on a Maid of the Mist boat tour or a private ride in the sky with Rainbow Helicopter Tours.
Letchworth State Park
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Plan a grand proposal from the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park. Choose from three magical waterfalls, scattered throughout the park which was named one of the top five romantic spots by Reserve America. Gorge-ous engagement backdrops include Inspiration Point, the Lower Falls Bridge, and the beginning of the Gorge Trail. Make the moment truly unforgettable and book a hot air balloon ride over the park with Balloons Over Letchworth.
Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
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Create a magical moment among blooming flowers, lush greenery, and architectural treasures all year long at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. The garden’s exterior offers an amazing background for a proposal, and in the warmer months vibrant flowers and greenery adorn the grounds. Indoors, the Palm Dome, Cloud Forest, and the Rainforest are all popular spots to pop the question, but there’s truly beauty around every corner.
Central Park
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Whether it’s dusted with fresh snow or blooming with vibrant flowers, Central Park is no doubt a beautiful spot to propose. As one of the most famous and romantic parks in the world it’s packed with great spots to pop the question including Gapstow Bridge, Shakespeare Garden, the Belvedere Castle Terrace, and Bow Bridge (pictured). Up the romance with a horse and carriage ride through the park that ends with a “yes”.
Brooklyn Bridge
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What better place to bridge together two lives than on the bridge that connects two boroughs? Connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn with spectacular skyline views, this iconic landmark has no bad angles. Take a stroll out to the halfway point of the bridge at sunset or get down on one knee with an amazing backdrop at the Brooklyn Bridge Park boardwalk.
The EDGE
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Surprise your future spouse from the highest outdoor skydeck in the Western Hemisphere. The EDGE showcases a breathtaking view of the city from 1,100 feet above, spanning from Central Park to the Statue of Liberty. As this stunning spot tends to get the most crowded during sunset, plan to propose during sunrise for a more secluded experience.
The Met Cloisters
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If your soon-to-be-spouse is an art lover, plan an enchanting proposal among the wonders of art, architecture, and gardens found at the Met Cloisters. Located on four acres overlooking the Hudson River, admire stunning sculptures, stained glass, and tapestries, all reflective of medieval European art with plenty of places to pop the question.
Boldt Castle
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Celebrate a lifetime of love from a castle dedicated to it. Take a scenic boat ride over to the 120-room Rhineland-style Boldt Castle and Yacht House built by George Boldt in 1900, a gift for his wife, Louise. This heart-shaped island truly is the destination for love with hearts hidden throughout the property alongside awe-inspiring architecture and vistas. For great outdoor proposal spots, check out the Powerhouse and Clocktower, the Arch of Honor and Swan Pond, and the Italian Gardens. Indoors, the bottom of the stairs in the grand hallway make for an elegant setting.
Romantic Cruise
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What’s more romantic than a sunset cruise through more than 1,000 islands? Spend an evening floating on St. Lawrence River as the setting sun paints the sky with bright oranges, yellows, and reds, creating the perfect backdrop to propose. Clayton Island Tours offers a two-hour Sunset Cruise during the summer months and Uncle Sam Boat Tours offers a romantic one-hour Twilight Cruise and 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise that includes live entertainment, a delicious meal, and a spectacular 1000 Islands sunset.
Tibbetts Point Lighthouse
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Join two lives together at the scenic point where Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River meet, the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse in Cape Vincent. Built in 1827, this northern New York lighthouse is the oldest in Jefferson County and features the only original working Fresnel lens on Lake Ontario. Plan to take a tour of the lighthouse and afterward propose alongside a famous Cape Vincent sunset.
Boscobel House & Gardens
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Take a stroll through the grounds of an elegant 19th-century Federal-style museum that ends in a beautiful proposal. The Boscobel House and Gardens in Garrison is packed with stunning views throughout the property with formal gardens, woodland trails, and plenty of points overlooking the Hudson River and West Point. Maple Lane (pictured) is sure to be a picture-perfect spot for the big question as well as the River Lookout from the Gardens.
Mohonk Preserve
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8,000 acres of sprawling forests and peaceful fields along the Shawangunk Ridge make up the Mohonk Preserve, providing a plethora of proposal spots. Adventurous couples may want to hit the 70+ miles of trails like the West Trapps Trailhead for breathtaking views from above. If you’re not a hiker, don’t worry. The Testimonial Gateway Trailhead (pictured) offers beautiful views of the ridge and a flat easy walking path.
Olana State Historic Site
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If you’re looking for unrivaled views of the Hudson Valley and the Catskills for your special moment, they can be found at Olana State Historic Site. Take a walk on the five miles of carriage roads throughout the 250-acre Frederic Church-designed landscape with a dramatic ending at the Persian-inspired house at the peak. Some other great photo spots include the lawn in front of the house and the overlook of the mountains and bridge.
Walkway Over the Hudson
Take in a birds’ eye view of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains from the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. The Historic Walkway Over the Hudson was originally built in 1888 as a railroad. Stroll hand-in-hand across the bridge, 212 feet above the river. At the halfway point, drop down to one knee and pop the question.
Chautauqua Institution
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An educational and recreational lakeside destination for artists, educators, thinkers, faith leaders and friends, the Chautauqua Institution offers an experience like no other. Its summer assembly is a must-see, but the 750-acre grounds (which offer free access in the off season) make it a truly beautiful place to propose all-season long. Stunning spots can be found throughout the campus, but the Athenaeum Hotel (pictured) and Miller Bell Tower both provide an unforgettable setting.
Long Point State Park on Lake Chautauqua
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Stroll down 320 acres of Chautauqua Lake shoreline from the peninsula-like point at Long Point State Park. This unique park, formed long ago by a retreating glacier, offers the best of both worlds with 360-wooded acres and beautiful lakeside views, perfect for a memorable proposal.
Allegany State Park
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Shimmering lakes, lush forests, and more than 100-square miles make up the scenic Allegany State Park, so you’re sure to find a secluded spot among the wilderness. If your partner has an adventurous side, traverse some of the 80+ miles of trails for that perfect vantage point. Plan to follow the short paved path from the Red House Lake camping area to the historic and charming Thomas Kelly Covered Bridge (pictured). You won’t be disappointed.
Montauk Lighthouse
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Journey out to Long Island’s eastern-most point for a one-of-a-kind proposal. Get down on one knee with the romantic backdrop of the historic Montauk Lighthouse and seaside ambiance. The view gets even more special on calm days when the converging tides of the Atlantic Ocean and Block Island Sound are visible.
McAllister County Park
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Planning a proposal with a tropical touch? Look no further than this Long Island hidden gem, aptly nicknamed Pirate’s Cove. Located on the waterfront of Port Jefferson Village, McAllister County Park is packed with amazing views. Make your way to the elevated sand dunes for a bird’s eye view of the cove and sweeping vistas of the Long Island Sound and Port Jefferson Harbor.
Old Westbury Gardens
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Is your soon-to-be spouse a Gilded Age fan? Take them on a promenade through the lush flower gardens, tree-line walks, and grand architecture of the Old Westbury Gardens, which was actually the setting for a proposal scene in HBO’s The Gilded Age. The Terrace of Love is a fitting spot to pop the big question as well as the Walled and Rose Gardens, and Lilac Walk in front of the Westbury House.
Oheka Castle
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Create a royal proposal from the setting of the breathtakingly beautiful historic mansion on the famed Gold Coast of Long Island. The majestic Oheka Castle, originally built during the Gilded Age, features elegant formal gardens with eight reflecting pools and vibrant blooms. Give your partner a truly unforgettable experience and book the marriage proposal package for two which includes luxurious overnight accommodations, a three-course dinner, and chocolate covered strawberries, champagne, and rose petals delivered to your room.
Chittenango Falls State Park
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Chittenango Falls State Park is home to a picturesque 167-foot waterfall, making it a beautiful proposal spot for nature lovers. Follow the steps down into the gorge that lead you to the bridge at the bottom of the falls. Then, get down on one knee with the falls roaring in the background.
Glimmerglass State Park
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Spend the day exploring Cooperstown and end the trip with a scenic proposal overlooking dazzling Otsego Lake, the “Glimmerglass” of James Fenimore Cooper’s Leatherstocking Tales. Throughout Glimmerglass State Park, you’ll find rolling, partially-wooded terrain and a variety of scenic views and wildlife. For a charming and romantic setting follow the Covered Bridge Trail out to the Hyde Hall covered bridge (pictured) which is the oldest in the country.
Fenimore Art Museum
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Literature-loving couples should plan a proposal to the property once owned by American novelist James Fenimore Cooper, now home to the Fenimore Art Museum. The museum, located in Cooperstown, houses one of the country’s most comprehensive collections of American folk and fine art, and the renowned Thaw Collection of American Indian Art. The grounds are scenically located on the shores of Otsego Lake, and the terrace gardens, gazebos, and museum make for a timeless backdrop.
Mount Utsayantha Fire Tower
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Create an everlasting memory surrounded by 360-degree views of the Catskills from the 3,214-foot summit of the Mount Utsayantha Fire Tower. Couples who enjoy a good hike can take the 2.3-mile path up to the top. For those who aren’t up for a hike (or dressed for it), you can also easily access the amazing view by car. Take this awe-inspiring vista to the next level and climb to the top of the fire tower.
Mountain Top Arboretum
Take your plant-loving partner on a stroll through 200 acres of plant collections, meadows, wetlands, and forest at this public garden and preserve nestled among the Catskill Mountains. The Mountain Top Arboretum is split into four main areas: West Meadow, Woodland Walk, East Meadow, and Spruce Glen, each offering beautiful scenery for a proposal.
North-South Lake
North-South Lake is the largest campground in the Catskill Forest Preserve and offers some of the area’s most extraordinary beauty, so you’re sure to find a special spot to propose. Inspiration Point offers a truly awe-inspiring view that’s accessible through various hiking trails that lean toward the challenging side. For an easier route, take the walk up to the site of the Catskill Mountain house for stunning vistas of the Hudson Valley and the Catskills. For a secluded engagement, make your way to Artist’s Rock at sunrise (pictured).
Carolabarb Park
Plan a proposal with the backdrop of northern Canandaigua Lake at this Finger Lakes hidden gem in Naples. Go all out and set up a surprise picnic at the Carolabarb Park scenic overlook before your partner arrives. Then, take the short walk up together and get down on one knee with an incredible lakeside view behind you.
Finger Lakes Wine Country
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Surprise your soon-to-be spouse with a tour through the sprawling vineyards and stunning lakeside views of scenic Finger Lakes Wine Country. Spend time sampling award-winning wines and at sunset pop the big question. Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery (pictured), Heron Hill Winery, and Chateau LaFayette Reneau are just a few of the region’s wineries with spectacular views (and tasty wine).
Taughannock Falls State Park
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There’s no question that the Finger Lakes are gorge-ous! Get down on one knee alongside the Taughannock Falls’ 215-foot plunge (which is three stories taller than Niagara Falls). Scenic spots can be found throughout the park, but the falls overlook (pictured) and base of the falls both offer amazing photo opportunities with little to no walk.
The Pinnacle
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In the charming town of Bolton Landing is the perfect place for a nature lover’s engagement. With 270 degree views of the Lake George area and surrounding mountains, The Pinnacle truly lives up to its name. Take your partner up the two-mile easy-moderate trail to the lookout, a perfect spot to ask the big question.
Lake George Steamboat Company
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Set sail for a romantic evening aboard the Lake George Steamboat Company’s Love Boat Dinner Cruise. Gaze out at the sunset while you indulge in a delicious dinner buffet, cocktails, and live entertainment. After your meal is the perfect time to pop the question surrounded by the sparkling waters of Lake George, Adirondack Mountains, and a sky painted with an array of vibrant colors.
Whiteface Mountain
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From May through October, couples looking for breathtaking views without a hike can take the drive up to the 4,867-foot summit of Whiteface Mountain. Follow the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway and head towards the staircase overlooking Lake Placid. The vista is truly spectacular and creates the perfect background for a proposal.
Empire State Plaza
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Plan an unforgettable proposal from the state’s dazzling capital. At the heart of the city is the Empire State Plaza, the 96-acre marble complex filled with unique architecture and a variety of photo opportunities. The gorgeous reflecting pool makes for a romantic setting that doubles as an ice rink in the winter. Some great places to get down on one knee include the stairs of the New York State Museum, the State Capitol, or the observation deck of the tallest skyscraper in the state outside of New York City, Corning Tower.
Yaddo Gardens
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There’s nothing like a romantic stroll through a lovely turn of the century rose and rock garden. Yaddo Gardens (open June-October) is made up of four acres of elegance filled with Italian marble statues, a rose-covered terra cotta columned pergola, and beautiful blooms around every corner. Nothing says love like a proposal surrounded by bright red roses in the Rose Garden, and the marble steps on the garden’s west side also make for a memorable moment.
John Boyd Thacher State Park
Panoramic views of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and Adirondack Mountains, naturally make for great proposal opportunities. Thacher State Park has more than 25 miles of scenic trails winding past limestone cliff-face, rock-strewn slopes, woodlands, and open fields. The popular Indian Ladder Trail leans toward the easier side and takes you beneath a waterfall, and the Escarpment Trail is more moderately-challenging, but both offer unrivaled vistas.
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