If you think Seattle is nothing but rain and coffee shops, you haven’t even begun to scratch the surface. There’s no shortage of things to do and places to see in the Emerald City, from the booming culinary scene and lush evergreen forests to the iconic Space Needle. Famously known as the home to the first Starbucks, Seattle is sure to be a hit with coffee fiends; there’s said to be almost 2,000 coffee shops across the city! On Puget Sound and opposite Olympic Mountains, Seattle is also a haven for nature lovers and explorers. Despite its rainy reputation, you can enjoy sunny springs and summers, when music and food festivals are abundant. With a lively independent music scene and countless craft cocktail bars, a proposal in Seattle is sure to be a hit! To help make life a bit easier for you, we’ve put together a list of our favorite proposal spots in this great city!
Classic City
Space Needle
Everyone secretly loves a cliché proposal! Built for the 1962 World’s Fair and now the most iconic Seattle structure, the Space Needle’s observation deck offers some of the most classic panoramic views of Downtown Seattle and the gorgeous surrounding scenery. Stand on The Loupe, the world’s only rotating glass floor, for the big question. From there, head upstairs to the Wine Bar to toast to the real fun: wedding planning!
Pike Place Public Market
As one of the most famous locations in Seattle, Pike Place Market is a great choice for a sweet and fun proposal. From the iconic neon sign to the gum wall, there are enough sights and sounds at Pike Place Market to last an entire weekend! Take your S/O to the original Starbucks cafe, then wander through the aisles of well over 225 local artisans selling their wares, the famous fish-tossing tradition, and music-playing street performers. The market added its historic MarketFront expansion in 2017, featuring an open-air plaza and fantastic views of Elliott Bay. What better end to a day trip then a proposal?
Out-and-About Proposals
Lake Union Boat Ride
Few spots are as romantic as a sunset sail over peaceful waves! If you and your partner love being on the water, there are many charter companies that help you take your sweetheart on a sailboat ride across Lake Union. Lake Union Charters & Adventures offers amazing date night packages: a favorite is the “Oysters & Sailing” package, which includes a sampling of oysters and small apps. Your unforgettable night will run as smoothly as the boat itself!
Hot Air Balloon
Having trouble deciding where to propose? Instead of picking just one spot, discover the beautiful landscapes of Washington’s countryside by balloon (ideally between May and October) with Seattle Ballooning. A private hot air balloon flight for the two of you, plus the pilot, includes champagne, snacks, and insane views. Propose as you drift by the magnificent Mt. Rainier, or in sight of one of your memories in the area. You and your S/O will still be walking on air long after you land!
Proposals with a Beautiful View
Snoqualmie Falls
This 300-foot tall waterfall will leave you and your partner speechless. To create a surprise getaway, take your partner to the Salish Lodge, a luxury resort and spa perched above Snoqualmie Falls. You can either watch the falls crashing from above over a romantic dinner or hike down and pick out your favorite spot outdoors. Elevate the romance even more by booking one of the many couples’ treatments such as a fireside couples massage!
Kerry Park
Kerry Park on Queen Anne Hill makes you feel like you’re floating above the city. This is an amazing place to get shots of you and your loved one against one of the most famous skylines in the world, as well as the bold, affecting presence of Mt. Rainier. No wonder it’s one of the most popular places to propose in Seattle! Bring up a picnic, or celebrate with friends and family for dinner at the nearby Canlis or Betty.
Nature-Inspired Proposals
Deception Pass
About an hour drive north of Seattle, this park is one of the world’s best proposal spots for the outdoor-lover and adventurer. With tons of hiking trails, water activities on the Puget Sound, and incredible views, it’s easy to create a romantic and fun day! Be sure to stop by the Shrimp Shack while you’re there for some fish and chips, or get messy with a couple of pounds of shrimp for peeling on the shore. Our favorite spot: propose in sight of the bridge from the shores of Puget Sound!
Discovery Park at the Lighthouse
Come to Discovery Park at sunset on a warm summer evening; it can’t be topped! Easily one of the most serenely romantic spots in Seattle, bring a picnic basket and propose as the sun dips below the beautiful Olympic Mountains. You can even have friends come after for a surprise party! Make sure to take lots of pictures, as the shores and the lighthouse in the background MUST be remembered!
Restaurant
The Pink Door
The Pink Door goes above and beyond your average date night necessities. The secret entrance in Pike Place leads you to incredible Italian food, great wine, excellent service, upscale trattoria surroundings, and the occasional acrobat suspended above you on trapeze rings. It’s also one of the few restaurants in Seattle where you can dress up a bit without feeling out of place. Pop the question here in a creative way; the servers are there to help you out! Drop the ring in a glass waiting to be filled with champagne, or surprise your partner with a fun dessert.
The Corson Building
Amazing American food in the Georgetown neighborhood, The Corson Building is a great place to go for any relationship milestone. An a la carte meal outside on the beautiful garden terrace, surrounded by wood nymph sculptures and string lights, will help you set the mood. Our choice: propose over a tasting menu inside the uniquely historic cottage dining room. You can even come back and get married here, as they do catering too — not to get ahead of ourselves!
