Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, while defined by its historic monuments and architecture, may just be the capital of romance. With scenic arched bridges, waterfront parks, and endless museums and monuments, the proposal possibilities are endless! Whether you’re visiting or a long time resident, Washington D.C is one of the most romantic spots to plan your perfect proposal. Check out our suggestions on the best spots in D.C. for you to pop the question!
Proposals in the Park
Take advantage of DC’s stunning greenspace with a park proposal.
Georgetown Waterfront Park
The Georgetown Waterfront Park is a beautiful area that stretches all along the Potomac River to the Key Bridge. As you and your partner take a stroll down the cobblestone streets, consider a romantic date night at one of the many spots around you. Surrounded by spectacular scenery and waterfront views, this park offers more proposal ideas than most. Catch an outdoor movie in the fall with a picture-perfect picnic, or go ice skating on Washington Harbour’s dancing fountain. No matter what season, or activity you choose, inspiring spots for a proposal are not difficult to come by around here.
Meridian Hill Park
This breathtaking and historical park offers an unforgettable setting for your proposal. Featuring an incredible 13-basin cascading waterfall set on an elevated vantage point, this would be an incredible spot to pop the big question. To go along with the beautiful water feature, Meridian Hill Park also includes multiple statues and structures of historical people to be memorialized, including President James Buchannon, Joan of Arc, and many others which are all brought to life by the park’s weekly drum circle and performances. This would certainly be a very vibrant proposal and not one that anyone will forget.
Proposals Surrounded by Art
With 74 different museums, these proposal spots capture the cultural beauty of DC.
National Gallery of Art
Created in 1937, the National Gallery of Art is home to a sophisticated collection of paintings and relics that date all the way back to the renaissance era and into today’s contemporary period of modern art. The sculpture garden that is outside holds the very famous piece “Amor” and what place could be better to propose than somewhere with actual love? No matter the season, take a stroll under the canopy of flowering trees, and around the sculptures and fountains for a perfect afternoon. There is also a gelato bar that is rumored to be absolutely delicious and it is definitely the perfect place for the two of you to round out your love-filled day.
National Arboretum
With over 400 acres of land filled with flowers, secret pathways, stunning landscapes, and other beautiful bits of nature to explore, there will be no shortage of romantic spots to propose. You can even pop the question in front of the infamous capitol columns that will surely make for great engagement photos. This is also a popular wedding location, a perfect way to bring your proposal story back to where it began.
With a View of the Water
If your partner loves the water, one of these waterfront proposal spots is for you!
Key Bridge
At sunset you will get a beautiful panoramic view of Georgetown and the Potomac River, making this one of the most spectacular viewpoints in D.C. Take a scenic walk over the bridge and watch the water below you, rent a few kayaks and float through, or you could even rent a boat and motor down the river while getting all the views of D.C. This is one of our favorite spots to propose in this historic and romantic city.
Tidal Basin
The perfect proposal spot if you’re looking to propose in the spring, with stunning cherry blossoms blooming, and the location of the yearly Cherry Blossom Festival. Look out as you walk along this picturesque setting and take in the beauty of the monuments and glowing Tidal Basin. There could not be a more romantic and exquisite spot to get engaged. Fair warning though, this spot does tend to get filled up during the day with tourists so unless you don’t mind an audience for your special moment, we suggest going early in the morning or late at night to avoid any crowds.
Kingman Island
If you’re looking for a more intimate setting to pop the question, Kingman Island is the best spot in the city (besides the privacy of your own home). A true escape from the hustle and bustle of D.C life, surround yourself with absolutely stunning and serene nature. The perfect location if you and your S/O are the outdoorsy types, who want to enjoy a quiet moment before you propose.
The Monuments and Memorials
Head over to the National Mall and pop the question under your favorite monument or memorial.
The Lincoln Memorial
No matter if you are visiting D.C or a long-time resident, the Lincoln Memorial is an incredible sight to see. One of the most visited and photographed places in D.C, the views from the top of the memorial is not to be missed. Equally stunning at night, the glow of the city lights will be a stunning backdrop when you get down on one knee. Plus, visiting at night will allow you to enjoy this special moment without big crowds.
The D.C. War Memorial
Commemorating the citizens who served in World War 1, this is a beautiful location to propose to your loved one. This stunning structure features a beautiful open-air temple, with a domed roof, surrounded by a sprawling lawn, and a large grove of trees. Spectacular in the summer, as well as in the snow, this spot puts you in a very private and quiet area while still being close to the city if you’re looking to celebrate with friends and family. After you are engaged, this is also a very well known spot in D.C. to get married so you can do two in one!
