37 Best Places to Propose in New York City

Written by: Benjamin Khordipour, Jewelry and Gemology Expert
February 21, 2024 – Posted in: Jewelry Blog

So, do you live in town, or are you visiting New York City? We’re locals (and we’ve been selling vintage rings for 40+ years), and we know this beautiful city well! Here are the top 37 locations to go to if you want to propose in New York City.

1. Empire State Building

Empire State Building Proposal spot and information graph

Entry Price: Start at $44pp
Setting:
Indoor/Outdoor
Season:
All Year
Vibe:
Iconic NYC Attraction
Crowdedness Level: High

Of all the buildings in New York that are globally familiar, none is more so than the Empire State Building. Featured in many great movies such as “Sleepless In Seattle,” “An Affair To Remember,” and, of course, “King Kong,” it’s a location that is hard to beat, just for the sheer majesty of it.

Ignore those who say, “Oh, but it’s such a cliché”.

The Empire State Building is never a cliché. However, if you really want to get the best out of your proposal, timing will be everything. The Observatory stays open until 2am, so head out (and up) after midnight, and the deck will be much less crowded. Alternatively, book a ticket to see the sunrise. These are limited to just 100 people and are just that little bit different.

This is one of our top proposal recommendations from this list of Proposals in New York!

Purchase tickets here.

2. Central Park

boating in central park with bridge in background

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Indoor
Vibe: Urban Nature
Crowdedness Level: Medium to high, depending on the area you choose.

Gone are the dark days of the 1970s, when Central Park had something of a reputation as a crime hotspot and was seriously rundown.

It is now rightly seen as one of the world’s great showpieces. The 1980s and 1990 saw massive improvements and renovations which catapulted the park into near-legendary status. The current biggest problem for would-be proposers is where to pop the question. There are so many perfect stops.

You have the stunning Bow Bridge, but it can get a little crowded when the weather is fine. Under the walls of Belvedere Castle, with its turrets and towers built right into the Manhattan schist bedrock, you will always be able to find a quiet spot. The Loeb Boathouse, Shakespeare Garden, and Ladies Pavilion are also very romantic spots. If you so wish, the Park offers proposal packages with planning help, a photographer, and a musician.

Plan your visit here.

3. Greenacre Park

water fall in Greenacre park NYC places to propose

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Urban Garden
Crowdedness Level: Medium

What if we told you that Manhattan has another park? One with a waterfall, and which is full of scented foliage and flowers? What if we also said that it is open to the public and is just off E 51st St? Well, that would be Greenacre Park, probably the best-kept secret in New York.

It isn’t big, at less than 6,500 sqft, but it is exquisitely beautiful. The park is only open from mid-April to early December, so you’ll need to plan your timing, but it’ll be worth it. It is a tranquil haven in a city of continual hustle and bustle. Although it has only a few hundred visitors a day, its small size means you’ll be unlikely to have the park to yourself. The upside is that everyone goes for peace and quiet, so it will feel like you’re as alone as you need to be.

Learn more about Greenacre Park.

4. Top Of The Rock

top of the rock balcony view of nyc skyline Rockefeller center

Price: $40pp
Setting: Indoor/Outdoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Iconic City Skyline
Crowdedness Level: Medium

If the crowds of the Empire State Building put you off a little, then opt for the less well-known Top of the Rock. Although it doesn’t have the instant recognizability of the Empire State, its views are no less breathtaking. It’s also quieter, with the added bonus that you get a view of its taller cross-town rival.

The name comes from it being the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza – the “30 Rock” of the sitcom of the same name. The view rivals any in New York and deserves much more acclaim than it actually gets.

The bragging rights for a Rockefeller Center marriage proposal are pretty high!

It has the added benefit of being right next to the Estate Diamond Jewelry Showroom. Click here to book tickets to Top of the Rock.

This is one of our favorite NYC proposal picks.

5. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

People standing Arched hall in Metropolitan Museum of Art New York City

Price: NYC Residents – Set your own price | General Admission: $30pp
Setting: Indoor/Outdoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Modern Artistic
Crowdedness Level: Medium

What better than a roof garden in the summer or fall to propose? For art lovers, especially, the Met is one of the most beautiful places in the city.

A walk through the gorgeous garden, a drink at the bar, and a proposal under a stunning sunset with spectacular views of Central Park and beyond. It’s like whoever designed the Met just knew what the outcome would be.

Click here to learn more about the Met.

6. Grand Central Station

chandeliers and arched walking bridge in Grand Central Station nyc

Price: Free
Setting: Indoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Grand Architecture
Crowdedness Level: High

Okay, so don’t go during rush hour. Off-peak, though, Grand Central really can get pretty quiet. Choose your time carefully, and there might be next to nobody there, actually. You have several choices, from the Marble Staircase to the 4-sided clock.

The most romantic part of the station is probably the Whispering Gallery. The domed construction means that a whisper said at one side travels to the other. Pick any of the four arches down on the dining concourse. Ask her to stand at the other side, and your proposal can be made across the 35 feet of the arch. We guarantee she won’t see it coming, but she will hear it!

Get info for planning your visit here.

7. The High Line

people walking on the high line converted railroad walking trail in nyc

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Urban Walking Trail
Crowdedness Level: Medium to high

This is one of the more unique locations on our list. The High Line is an elevated linear-shaped park that was created on a former NYC rail line. The nearly 1.5-mile-long walking trail runs along Manhattan’s west side and offers dozens of interesting and one-of-a-kind views.

During the day, crowds on the High Line can reach epic proportions. Early morning or evening, though, the walks are much less crowded. Lots of little nooks and crannies, as well as benches to sit on with beautiful views, make this a great place to ask for her hand. The location of the High Line also means that a wonderful dinner to celebrate is only ever a short walk away.

Find more information on visiting the Highline here.

8. Brooklyn Bridge Park

sunny view of Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn Bridge Park

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Urban Waterfront Park
Crowdedness Level: Medium to high

Brooklyn Bridge itself, whilst a fantastic photo opportunity, is usually so crowded as to be impractical for a proposal. Instead, take a walk down the mile-long waterfront, which runs underneath.

Uninterrupted views of the river are spectacular at the Brooklyn Bridge Park. There are also gardens and cafés to grab a celebratory cake and coffee. If the weather is nice, the stroll will take you less than half an hour, but there are plenty of places to stop and admire what you see.

This location makes it one of the best places to propose in New York.

Find more info for planning your visit.

9. Coney Island Boardwalk

sunset view of beach and boardwalk at Coney Island

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Summer
Vibe: City Beach
Crowdedness Level: High

For the whimsical and fun-loving, there are few better places than the Coney Island Boardwalk. Whether you’re a roller coaster freak or you go for the hot dogs at Nathan’s, Coney Island is a place for little and big kids.

Propose on the Ferris wheel or down towards Manhattan Beach. Better still, stay for the nightly fireworks and propose under a sky full of color. Summer and Coney Island were made for each other, so hop the train to Stillwell Avenue and have a blast.

Get directions and more info here.

10. The Hayden Planetarium

theater at the Hayden Planetarium in NYC's museum of natural history

Price: NYC residents – set your own price | General Admission: starts at $25
Setting: Indoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Immersive Celestial Experience
Crowdedness Level: Medium

Another great location that became slightly overplayed after it was featured in an episode of Friends. But, several years later, the Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History is back to being gloriously romantic. Check the best times to visit when it’s a little quieter, and choose your moment.

A proposal under starlight, in the middle of the day? Why not?

Reserve tickets here.

11. A Harbor Cruise

cruise boat in NYC harbor with view of Manhattan skyline at dusk

Price: Varies
Setting: Indoor/Outdoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Romantic
Crowdedness Level: Medium

NYC has so many landmarks, it can be hard to see them all in a day. It is also often difficult to get great views due to the nature of a packed and very small island. Do the next best thing and take a harbor cruise. Sailing down the Hudson on a warm evening brings views of the city that you can’t otherwise see. Propose on deck, with the greatest backdrop in the world, and you’ll both remember it forever.

Packages are available, including food and drinks, at very reasonable prices, or you can even charter a boat just for the two of you.

12. Governors Island

aerial view of Governors Island in New York harbor with Manhattan skyline in background

Price: Free. $4 Transportation
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Scenic Urban Park
Crowdedness Level: Medium

A former military base doesn’t sound much like the place to offer a proposal of marriage but think again. Now, with lovely and serene parks that are perfect for picnicking, Governors Island is a world away from its traditional use. Rent bikes and take a leisurely peddle around an almost traffic-free island. Picnic Point on the south-west tip is the perfect spot to relax and catch the cooling breeze being drawn up through the Upper Bay. It also offers the best views of Liberty and Ellis Island on the NY side of the state line.

Many people still haven’t realized how great Governors Island is, and you can beat them to it!

Plan your visit by visiting the Governors Island official website.

13. The Little Red Lighthouse

sunny view the little red lighthouse under bridge in Washington heights

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Historic Nature Walk
Crowdedness Level: Low

Or Jeffrey’s Hook Light, to give it its official name. The only lighthouse left in the city, it was only saved by public demand after the construction plans of the George Washington Bridge included its demolition. It’s not the most scenic of destinations, perhaps, but it is historically important and offers superb views north and south.

It’s a little different, and a real talking point when you tell people how and where you proposed!

Get directions and more information about the the Little Red Lighthouse here.

14. Strawberry Fields

strawberry fields public park sign in central park with view of luxury high rise buildings

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Serene Nature
Crowdedness Level: Medium

Technically, it is part of Central Park, but it is also a destination in its own right. The memorial to John Lennon is situated just inside the park gates opposite W 72nd Street. The corner of W 72nd and Central Park West is the location of the Dakota Building was the home of John Lennon. He was shot right outside the building in 1980. The tiled mosaic memorial is always full of flowers and is incredibly peaceful. It’s also common to encounter street musicians usually playing Beatles tunes, so if you’re fans of classic rock, the ambiance will be right up your alley.

Additionally, since visitors are always leaving flowers by the memorial, your fiancée won’t suspect a proposal if you bring along a bouquet to give her when she says yes.

Click here to view the Strawberry Field website.

15. Washington Square Park

aerial view of Washington state park arch and fountain place to propose in nyc

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Urban Park
Crowdedness Level: High

Washington Square Park is an iconic cultural location and has been featured in multiple films and TV series. It’s a great spot for a variety of reasons, but the view is by far one of the best. At night, when the arch is lit up, you can look straight through it all the way up the 34th St. and the Empire State Building. Located in the trendy Greenwich Village, the park is usually full of interesting and eclectic people, including street musicians, artists, and food vendors. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the vibe of NYC culture and a memorable spot to hold your proposal.

Tip: For a few dollars, you can find a musical to serenade you while you celebrate your engagement. Choose a song that has special meaning for the two of you and arrange with the street musician beforehand.

Get more info about visiting Washington Square Park here.

16. Times Square

night view of billboards in times square place to propose in NYC

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoors
Season: All Year
Vibe: Iconic NYC Attraction
Crowdedness Level: High

Time Square is busy. In fact, Times Square is ALWAYS busy. Now that’s out of the way, don’t let it affect your decision to propose here. Plenty of Jumbotrons are available if you’d like to put your proposal in lights, or just pick a spot and propose.

Proposing in a place as public as Times Square means you and you’re fiancée need to be comfortable being the center of attention for a bit. In all likelihood, you may draw a crowd of onlookers and well wishers who’ll stop to watch your proposal and maybe even post to their social media.

However you do it, a little bit of Times Square will always be yours.

Get visitor information for Times Square here.

17. The Rink at Rockefeller Center

man proposing on one knee on the rink at Rockefeller Center in midtown NYC

Price: Starts at $21pp
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Winter
Vibe: Ethereal Iconic NYC Attraction
Crowdedness Level: High

Sometimes, traditions start without any real intention to be so. When the first Rink at Rockefeller appeared, it’s unlikely anybody thought it would become so popular for wedding proposals, but here we are! You can go at it alone or book one of the VIP proposal packages the center offers.

The cool part about booking a proposal through the rink is that they’ll play a song of your choice for you to propose to. Bear in mind, however, that the rink is always busy, and you may see at least one other proposal during your skating session. But, if you don’t mind the busy environment, it’s an iconic NYC proposal spot, and the crowds of skaters will likely add to the vibe of the moment.

Get tickets and plan your proposal at the Rockefeller Center Rink here.

Bonus Tip: If you’re unsure about picking out a ring yourself, our Estate Diamond Jewelry showroom directly overlooks Rockefeller Center. You can plan to follow your proposal with a visit to the showroom, where our expert jewelers can help your fiancée pick out the ring of her dreams.

18. A Helicopter Ride

aerial nighttime view of nyc twin tower memorial lights

Price: Varies
Setting: Indoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Adventurous
Crowdedness Level: Low

If you’ve never taken a ride in a helicopter over NYC, think about booking one as the setting for your big moment. It truly is a breathtaking experience and, unlike most NYC locations, offers a more private environment for your proposal. Most of the tour companies are well-versed in in-flight proposals, so ask what choices you may have.

The answer to the question “Where did he propose?” has never been so exciting!

Click here to order a New York helicopter ride.

19. Brooklyn Heights Promenade

nighttime view of Brooklyn heights promenade city skyline bridge lit up

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Iconic Skyline
Crowdedness Level: Medium

In something of a departure (literally) from the Manhattan flavor of this list, there are few more spectacular views of the city skyline than from the newly revitalized Brooklyn Heights Promenade.

If you had to list things to have in a backdrop for any event, let alone a proposal, this would have everything. The skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and even Liberty herself provide a location unlike any other in the whole of NYC. Public transportation is available via subway, and it’s only a short walk from the subway stop to the promenade. Pick a spot along the water and get down on one knee for a truly magical moment.

Tip: Sunset and dusk offer some of the most spectacular views of the city lights, and it’s likely to be less crowded then.

Get directions to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade here.

20. The Chinese Scholar’s Garden

visitors at the Chinese Scholar Garden in Staten island

Price: $5pp
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Tranquil Nature Garden

Believe it or not, there is actually more to Staten Island than the ferry. In what was the first of its kind in the US on opening, the Chinese Scholar’s Garden is another of those secrets that deserves a lot more recognition.

An oasis of Chinese plants and flowers, the entire garden is not constructed using a single nail or glue gun. As a metaphor for marriage, you can do no better than proposing somewhere that is based purely on how its components work in harmony.

Find tickets and more information by visiting the official Chinese Scholar’s Garden website.

21. Harlem High Bridge

Harlem High Bridge in the Bronx

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Urban Walking Trail
Crowdedness Level: Low to Medium

Everyone proposes downtown, of course. So why not head for somewhere different? Up in Harlem (not down on Broadway), the Croton Aqueduct dates back to 1848 and is NYC’s oldest bridge. After a 40-year closure period, it was finally reopened in 2015 as a spectacular and amazingly peaceful walk across from the Bronx to Manhattan.

It might be a little out of the way, but that means much fewer people, and the views of the city are stunning. The bridge connects Washington Heights and the Bronx and can be accessed from either neighborhood.

Get info and directions for the Harlem High Bridge here.

22. Liberty Island

statue of liberty on Liberty Island in NYC harbor

Price: Starts at $24.80. Additional $24.50 ferry fees
Setting: Indoor/Outdoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Historic
Crowdedness Level: High

If either of you is descended from immigrants to the US, particularly those in the late 19th century and up until 1954, they would have sailed up past Liberty to Ellis Island. She is an integral part of US history, and the island is a terrific place for a visit in fine weather.

If you are thinking about proposing up in the crown, though, you may need to rethink. Only medication and cameras are allowed to be taken up. You can still propose, but you can’t do it with a ring. Just be aware that you must book in advance, and numbers are limited to 240 people per day.

Get tickets and reservation information for the Statue of Liberty here.

23. Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Cherry blossoms people lounging on grass at Brooklyn Botanic Gardens

Price: $18pp
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Summer
Vibe: Garden
Crowdedness Level: Medium-Hight

The Botanic Garden is one of the horticultural gems of the city. Beautiful at any time of year, thanks to the care taken in the planting, with each season bringing new experiences. There’s no doubt, though, that it is at its best in late May/June, when summer is starting to really come to life.

Choose any one of what seems like a hundred perfect spots in the Japanese Garden, Herb Garden, Cherry Esplanade, or one of the indoor pavilions. There really are so many places to choose from, it’s worth a solo trip first to pick the best. The floral wonderland will make a magical setting for a proposal and a stunning backdrop for photos of your special moment.

Get hours and opening days here.

24. Ditmas Park

Victorian houses in Ditmas park neighborhood of Brooklyn

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Historic
Crowdedness Level: Low

The proof that New York has something for everyone is Ditmas Park, another neighborhood in Brooklyn. The Flatbush area of the borough holds this historic district that used to be a piece of land owned by the Ditmas family. 

What makes this location unique are the free-standing Victorian houses from the early 20th century. Walking down the Ditmas Park streets, you truly get a sense of stepping back into the past, which is a striking contrast to the bustling city streets just a stone’s throw away.

One could spend hours admiring the architecture and preservation of these homes. Also, it’s a part of the city where most people wouldn’t think of visiting for a proposal. If you love the Victorian era, this could be a superb choice for you. 

25. Fort Greene Brownstones

Iron stair rails brownstone houses in Fort Greene Brooklyn

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Fall
Vibe: Hipster Chic
Crowdedness Level: Low

It might seem unusual to pick a whole neighborhood as a suggestion for a romantic proposal. But it’s easy to get carried away and choose the flashiest and most over-the-top location for the proposal. 

If you’re more low-key and truly enjoy the stillness of an authentic brownstone neighborhood, Fort Green Brooklyn might just be your cup of tea. 

It’s an excellent idea if you’re planning a fall proposal and enjoy walking through rustling leaves. 

The colors of the foliage match the brownstones that line the streets. Just pick a brownstone you like, get down on one knee, and ask the person you love to marry you. 

26. Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park 

tree lined grass at FDR Four Freedoms Park Roosevelt Island

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Fall-Summer
Vibe: Modern Architecture
Crowdedness Level: Low

Franklin D. Roosevelt was undoubtedly an influential figure in American history. The Four Freedoms Park is a memorial to him and the speech he made at the US Congress in 1941. 

Regardless of whether you are inspired by his legacy or not, you can admire this beautiful park. It spreads across four acres, so there’s so much room to choose where to pop the question. It’s also an incredibly modern-looking park situated on Roosevelt Island, just outside Manhattan. 

This unique location provides a view of the Empire State Building and most of mid-town Manhattan. If you love modern architecture, a park with fewer crowds, and want to add a little bit of American history to your proposal, this is the place to do it. 

However, keep in mind that it’s not the best choice in the winter because of the cold wind coming from the ocean. 

Get directions and more info on visiting the Four Freedoms Park here.

27. Gantry Plaza State Park 

Pavilion at Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Waterfront City Park

This beautiful park is located in Hunters Point, Queens, and like so many places in New York, comes with a bit of history. On the south side of the park was a dock facility where they unloaded rail car floats. It’s a 12-acre state park that has transfer bridges, support gantries, and many piers. 

One of the reasons why it’s such a wonderful place to propose is because it’s rarely crowded, and offers the most amazing views of the NYC skyline. And inside the park, there is more than one option for a proposal location. 

You can sit on one of many picnic tables or take a walk along the waterfront promenade. And you can admire the view of mid-town Manhattan and the United Nations building. 

Get visitor information here.

28. Pier 15 

People lounging on chairs at Pier 15 in Lower Manhattan NYC

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Trendy
Crowdedness Level: Medium

You might have heard that Pier 17 is actually the place to go in New York City. And that might be true if you want to have a lot of fun. But if you want a romantic outdoor proposal, a more private waterfront location is Pier 15. 

After you’re engaged, you can head to Pier 17 to celebrate. The amazing thing about Pier 15 is that it’s relatively small and has a great seating area where you can enjoy stunning views of the East River. 

When you turn around, you’ll be able to see the Brooklyn Bridge right there. A great tip if you need to summon up the courage to pop the question is to start walking from Battery Park, and in about 15-20 minutes, you’re at Pier 15. 

29. The Strand Bookstore 

Book displays in the Strand bookstore in New York City

Price: Free
Setting: Indoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Cozy
Crowdedness Level: Medium

When talking about New York landmarks, it’s not just about buildings, piers, and museums. The Strand Bookstore has been around for nearly 100 years. 

In an era when traditional bookstores are disappearing, it becomes even more meaningful. If you and your beloved are book lovers, the fact that this historic bookstore holds millions of books and has stood the test of time no doubt fills you with joy. 

Perhaps you can browse the bookstore and, when you end up in your partner’s favorite writer section, find the perfect moment to propose. The Strand Bookstore continues to thrive. And if you propose there, visiting the bookstore every time will feel even more special.

Visit the Strand Bookstore site for more info.

30. Winter Garden Atrium 

Shoppers sitting in lobby at the Winter Garden Atrium

Price: Free
Setting: Indoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Upscale Mall
Crowdedness Level: Medium

The Winter Garden Atrium holds a special place in the hearts of so many New Yorkers. It suffered a lot of damage after 9/11, but it has since been rebuilt and restored to its former glory. 

The Winter Garden Atrium is a pavilion covered in glass, and it looks beautiful inside and out. What makes it such a great place for a proposal is that it successfully blends elegance and everyday casual style. 

People go there to grab a bite to eat and relax, but also to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and get away from the bustling city. Because it hosts concerts and symphonies, it can be a fantastic choice for music lovers as well. 

Get directions and more info here.

31. The Lotus Garden 

plants and pond at the Lotus rooftop garden on the upper east side

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Urban Garden
Crowdedness Level: Low

Rooftop gardens aren’t just a novelty in NYC. They’re also a popular choice for a romantic proposal. But not all rooftop gardens possess the mystical charm of the Lotus Garden. The location is the Upper West Side, but not many local residents are familiar with it. 

The garden hosts some of the most amazing flowers and plants and spreads across 7,000 square feet. It’s open from April to November on Sundays only. Between hours 1pm and 4pm, you can plan a discreet, ultra-romantic, surprise proposal. 

However, you can also have more access to the garden if you buy a yearly membership. All the money pours back into this community garden and keeps all the trees and other botanical wonders flourishing.

Find visitor info for the Lotus Garden here.

32. Wave Hill 

plants and flowers at the Wave Hill Gardens in the Bronx

Price: $10pp
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Summer
Vibe: Nature Garden
Crowdedness Level: Low

Wave Hill is a city-owned garden, but it used to be a private 28-acre estate. There’s an elegant mansion from the 19th century in the park, too. The garden is in Riverdale, which is a section of the Bronx. The landscape and flora are almost exactly the same as they were nearly 200 years ago. 

This location in NYC provides enough romance and photo opportunities for a magical proposal. You also get a view of the river and the New Jersey Palisades, and it stretches all the way to the George Washington Bridge. 

If you’re planning a spring proposal, April and May offer the most beautiful gardens because of the white, pink, and yellow Magnolias. 

Plan your visit to the Wave Hill Gardens here.

33. Bronx River Forest Trail 

waterfall and trees at the Bronx River Trails city park

Price: Free
Setting: Outdoor
Season: Spring-Fall
Vibe: Scenic Nature
Crowdedness Level: Low

The Bronx has fought long and hard to reclaim its River and the forest, too. The movement to renew the wildlife around this area started in the mid-70s and came to full fruition only recently. 

As a result, the Bronx River Forest has some of the most amazing hiking trails in the city. The water, the trees, and the picturesque bridge are a welcome change from the hustle of the city. If you and your partner enjoy hiking, why not propose on one of these gorgeous trails? 

Not every proposal needs to be traditionally romantic. Putting your hiking sticks down to pull out the engagement ring unexpectedly will be a story to tell your friends and family. Some locations on the trail to consider are Burke Bridge, River Lookout, Island Lookout, and the Retaining Wall. 

Get directions and more information about the Bronx River Forest hiking trails here.

34. Film Forum 

blue and red theater at Film Forum in Greenwich NYC

Price: Starts at $17pp
Setting: Indoor
Season: All Year
Vibe: Nostalgic
Crowdedness Level: Low

All cinephiles out there will probably love the idea of having a romantic proposal inside a historic cinema. And if there are only a few places in the world where that’s possible, NYC is certainly one of them. This is a non-profit movie theater in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. 

This is a theater that puts so many directors on the map and celebrates independent artists. To really personalize the experience, scout out a film that you think will set the mood or hold significance to your relationship. It’ll certainly make a special memory of your proposal and an out-of-the-box story to tell when asked.

Get tickets and showing info by visiting the Film Forum official website.

35. Lincoln Center Revson Fountain 

Revson Fountain at night at Lincoln Center for performing arts NYC

Price – Free
Setting – Outdoor
Season – Spring-Summer
Vibe – Grand Architecture
Crowdedness Level: Medium

If getting an unforgettable picture is the priority for your proposal location, the Lincoln Center for Performing Arts offers an impressive backdrop.

New York is blessed with so many ideal photoshoot locations, but we particularly like the Revson Fountain in the plaza of the Lincoln Center for its domed shape that will look stunning in photos. It might not be the most famous fountain in the city, but combined with the intricate architecture of the Lincoln Center in the background, it creates a magical setting for that perfect shot.

The fountain also holds a lot of history and is a part of the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. 

Tip: You can probably get a more romantic photo at nighttime when both the fountain and the center behind it are illuminated with ethereal lighting.

Get directions and more info here.

36. Domino Park 

Domino park waterfront boardwalk in Williamsburg Brooklyn

Price – Free
Setting – Outdoor
Season – Fall-Summer
Vibe – Modern Waterfront Park
Crowdedness Level: Medium

Williamsburg might not be a part of NYC that most people think about when planning a romantic proposal. But the new Domino Park along the East River is nothing short of stunning. 

The park features an elevated walkway, a fountain and seating steps, and even a fog bridge. The park also has many artifacts that make it even more charming. Items like authentic and restored mooring bollards provide a unique atmosphere and also a great photo opportunity. 

Get visitor information for Domino Park here.

37. Red Hook Winery & Columbia Street Waterfront 

Restaurant with waterfront window view at Red Hook Winery in Brooklyn

Price – Varies
Setting – Indoor
Season – All Year
Vibe – Industrial Chic
Crowdedness Level: Low-Medium

These two locations go hand in hand. Firstly, the Columbia Street Waterfront is often neglected when it comes to picking romantic waterfront spots for proposals. 

The Louis J. Valentino Park on the waterfront has one of the city’s best views. Not to mention that the Statue of Liberty and the entire harbor area are on display. The Red Hook Winery is a part of the waterfront, too. 

And it holds a pristine reputation for a reason. The winery not only provides an excellent wine-tasting experience, but it can also be a beautiful location for a smaller wedding. 

The overall impression of the waterfront and the winery is quite unique and well worth considering as places to propose. 

Make reservations and get more info about Red Hook Winery by visiting their website.

Propose in New York at our EDJ Showroom

customer viewing vintage engagement rings in Estate Diamond Jewelry NYC showroom

Price – Varies
Setting – Indoor
Season – All Year
Vibe – Old World Luxury
Crowdedness Level: Low

As we mentioned above, you can just play it old-school and propose in the jewelry store. Visit the Estate Diamond Jewelry 5th Avenue showroom, located in the heart of NYC’s midtown.

Our showroom is located right next to Rockefeller Center. Book an appointment to view our vintage engagement rings. Then you can propose in our stunning showroom above 5th Avenue on one side and Rockefeller Plaza on the other and opposite the rooftop from the Spiderman Movie. Our expert jewelers will help you find exactly what you’re looking for and help you create a dream proposal.

Book an appointment at our 5th Ave Jewelry Showroom:

Planning Your Proposal

Giving the engagement ring

If you need creative ideas for the proposal itself. Don’t worry; we have your back. We’ve listed over 140 creative marriage proposal ideas. Most of them can be easily arranged.

We hope you liked our list of places to propose in NYC. Did we miss any spots? Let us know in the comments below, or tell us about your NYC proposal.