I’ve photographed hundreds surprise proposals at dozens of the most popular locations, I have complied a list of the best places to propose in Washington DC! Whether you or local to DC or are visiting for a weekend trip, there are many great options from Memorials, to parks, to waterfront views. if you are interested in planning a proposal at one of these or any other location in DC don’t hesitate to get in touch! I look forward to helping you pull off your surprise proposal and photographing the moment!

Here are 20 surprise proposal location ideas in Washington DC:

1. Lincoln Memorial

For an iconic view of DC propose in between the columns of the Lincoln Memorial! You will get an amazing view of the Reflecting Pool, Washington Monument and Capitol!

2. Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is a great indoor proposal location to avoid the weather. It’s best to go right when they open and it’s not as busy!

3. Jefferson Memorial

From the Jefferson Memorial you can get an amazing view of The Washington Monument! This area is near the Tidal Basin and popular during the cherry blossom peak bloom in March-April!

4. Capitol Building

Propose on the grounds of the Capitol with the iconic dome in the background or with a view of the Washington Monument! During the holidays there is also a Christmas Tree on the grounds!

5. Constitution Gardens

An area that is more private but still with a great view of the Washington Monument!

6. Roosevelt Island

Go for a small hike on Roosevelt Island and propose surrounded by trees! This area looks beautiful during the fall! The park closes at sunset.

7. National Portrait Gallery

The Kogod Courtyard is a great indoor spot with natural light for photos!

8. Enid A Haupt Garden

This garden is located behind the Smithsonian Castle on the mall! After a day at the museums, propose at the gardens!

9. Union Station

The arches outside of Union Station make for a great spot for an outdoor proposal under a covered area incase of rain. During the holidays there is also a Christmas tree inside the lobby!
10. POV Lounge at The W Hotel
Propose over dinner with a view at the POV long at the W hotel!

11. The Reflecting Pool

Right in front of the Lincoln Memorial, the Reflecting Pool has a clear view of the Washington Monument!

12. DC War Memorial

The DC War Memorial is one of the memorials that tends to be more private! Another great outdoor covered location!

13. The Wharf

The Wharf is a popular waterfront area for restaurants and bars in DC! During the winter there is also an ice skating rink! Propose on one of the docks at the Wharf!

14. Georgetown Waterfront

Georgetown is a popular area for dinning and shopping! Propose along the waterfront before a dinner reservation!

15. The Potomac

You can rent a boat and propose on the Potomac with a unique view of the memorials from the river!

16. A Winery in Virginia

Virginia has an endless amount of beautiful wineries! A few of my favorite wineries for surprise proposals are: Bluemont Vineyards, RDV Vineyards, and Greenhill Winery!

17. The Kennedy Center

There are a few great spots at The Kennedy Center including the rooftop terrace, the back of the Kennedy Center with a view of Georgetown, or at the REACH!

18. Bishop Gardens

The Bishop gardens is next to the National Cathedral and a perfect spot for a garden proposal during the spring/summer!

19. National Arboretum

The old Capitol columns make for a historic background at the National Arboretum! There are also plenty of garden areas!

20. Meridian Hill Park

A public park area in NW DC is perfect for a proposal during a picnic or daily walk with your dog!

Interested in proposing at one of these locations or another location in Washington DC?

Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in Washington DC by using the contact form or emailing jonflemingphotography@gmail.com

Surprise Proposal Photography includes detailed planning & advice, photography session to capture the proposal moment, portraits afterwards, and your online gallery of your beautifully processed high resolution images delivered in less then a week. The online gallery is easy to share with friends and family! 

We also offer pre-designed and custom setups to make your moment extra special!