Where to propose in Washington DC?
After photographing over 300+ surprise proposals at dozens of 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 15 location ideas for your Surprise Proposal in Washington DC
1. Lincoln Memorial
In between the columns of The Lincoln Memorial with a view of the Washington Monument is one of the most iconic DC shots and very commonly requested! The shot is perfect with the lineup for the Lincoln, Reflecting Pool, Washington Monument, and Capitol!
2. The Capitol Building
For a different view of The Washington Monument considering a surprise proposal on the grounds of The US Capitol Building! If you’re a local and live near Capitol Hill it’s a great spot to take your dog on a walk or if you’re a tourist the grounds of the Capitol or nearby botanical gardens might be a great place to visit!
3. Jefferson Memorial
In front of the Jefferson Memorial you’ll get a great view of The Tidal Basin and Washington Monument! During cherry blossom season this spot is popular for cherry blossom trees as well! Considering proposing during peak bloom of the blossoms for some colorful photos!
4. Library of Congress
A historical location located near the Capitol and The Supreme Court buildings. Be sure to go early right after they open to avoid tourist and crowds of people. There is some great natural light that comes in matched with a beautiful backdrop. Consider this for a great indoor option during the winter or as a plan in case of rain.
5. Constitution Gardens
This spot is located between The Washington Monument and The Lincoln Memorial on part of The Mall. It’s a small piece of land surrounded by a pond that is accessible by a small wooden bridge. It makes a great proposal location for a perfect unobtrusive view of The Washington Monument in the background. The location is very private and normally has few tourist in the area as many of the tourist spend time at the nearby memorials. This makes for the perfect location that includes the view of the monuments without the large crowds of tourist. This spot also commonly has ducks and lots of greenery surrounding. Click to view a Constitution Gardens Proposal!
6. National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery is a great indoor proposal location. The Kogod Courtyard is the best spot in the gallery with its indoor trees and natural light that comes from the roof. An indoor location is a good idea for the winter time or as a backup location in case of rain! The Gallery does close at 5pm.
7. Roosevelt Island
A great spot for a more private proposal surrounded by scenery especially during the fall! Here are some Roosevelt Island surprise proposals to view! The best way to get there is to drive and park in the lot right near the bridge to the island!
8. The Reflecting Pool
The Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument are a great backdrop for a classic DC proposal. If you propose off to one side instead of directly in the center you can also get a view of The Capitol in the distance!
9. Georgetown Waterfront
Georgetown is a popular waterfront area with many restaurants and shops! Many options nearby for a nice dinner or cocktail hour after the engagement! Good during any time of the year including winter where the lamppost nearby have festive wreaths and lights. You can view this Georgetown surprise proposal on the waterfront!
10. The Wharf Waterfront
Similar to Georgetown, The Wharf is another great Waterfront spot with a small dock that goes out into the water and many restaurants nearby. During the winter there is also an ice skating rink which might be another proposal idea! Plan to propose on the water and then go out to a nice dinner within walking distance!
11. The Kennedy Center
The Kennedy Center has a few great locations include the REACH and the rooftop terrace of the Kennedy Center! You can get a view of Georgetown, or a view of The Lincoln as well.
12. Bishop Gardens
The Bishop Gardens is on the ground of the National Cathedral and makes for a greast surprise proposal location with greenery and flowers. Consider proposing here at sunset when the light is beautiful!
13. National Arboretum
The highlight of the National Arboretum is the old Capitol Columns! Located in Northeast Washington, DC, with entrances on New York Avenue and R Street. They are open from 8am-5pm
14. A Virginia Winery
If you are willing to venture outside of DC, Virginia has dozens of great wineries! Here are 4 wineries to propose at in Virginia! A winery like Bluemont Vineyards also offers surprise proposal packages!
15. Meridian Hill Park
For a park location consider Meridian Hill Park! A park is a great option for a surprise proposal. You can make plans around a picnic or a 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!
Baltimore Top of the World Surprise Proposal with a view
This surprise proposal had the perfect 360 view of Baltimore and the Inner Harbor at the “Top of The World” The Top of the World Observation Desk is open weekdays and weekends and just an affordable $6 ticket to go up! The perfect spot to propose with a view in Baltimore but at an indoor location incase of inclement weather! Scroll down to view more from this surprise proposal in Baltimore!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in Baltimore 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 3 days. 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!
Washington DC Picnic Surprise Proposal at the Bishop Gardens
For this surprise proposal at the Bishop Gardens in DC we assisted in providing the picnic setup along with the photography of the moment and portraits afterwards! The custom picnic setup included fresh roses, petals, led candles, and a personal note from the groom to be! We coordinated in picking up the personal note ahead of timer to be placed on the table when the couple arrived!
After the proposal we walked around the Bishop Gardens for additional photos! The Bishop Gardens in DC is a beautiful location for surprise proposal and engagement photos! There is a photography permit and permission required to have a professional photographer on the property! We can also assist you in gaining the permit. If you are planning a proposal in DC reach out!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
DC Lincoln Memorial Engagement Session
Spencer and Maria had their engagement session at the Lincoln Memorial in DC! We photograph some portraits around the Lincoln and Reflecting Pool and got the view of The Washington Monument! The memorials are always a popular location for surprise proposals and engagement sessions in DC! Get in touch for the best tips for planning your engagement photos at the memorials!
Learn more about planning an engagement session in DC using the contact form or emailing jonflemingphotography@gmail.com
Jon Fleming Photography photographs surprise proposals, engagements, and weddings in Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland!
DC Watergate Hotel Rooftop Surprise Proposal
The Top of the Gate is The Watergate Hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar area! This is a perfect location for a DC rooftop surprise proposal! You can make a reservation of a table that has a view overlooking Georgetown, The Washington Monument or the Potomac River. View below to checkout the proposal moment and the views!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Washington DC Meridian Hill Park Surprise Proposal
Sharing this surprise proposal from Meridian Hill Park in Washington DC! Congratulations to this newly engaged couple! Meridian Hill Park is one of DC’s many park areas that make for a great surprise proposal location!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Iconic DC Lincoln Memorial Surprise Proposal
The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most popular locations for a surprise proposal in Washington DC! Out of over 300 surprise proposals we’ve photographed, dozens have been at the Lincoln! It was the perfect DC view of the Washington Monument, Capitol, and Reflecting Pool! We have perfected our technique to get the perfect proposal photos here!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
5 things you need to know for your surprise proposal in Washington DC
Here are 5 things you need to know for your surprise proposal in Washington DC!
1. Consider the time of day
When planning your surprise proposal keep in mind the time of day. If you are proposing at the memorials late afternoon on a weekend date can be packed with tourist! Consider planning for an earlier time, weekday, or other locations that tend to not be overrun with tourist!
2. Have a dinner plan
Have a dinner or other special event scheduled so your partner are encouraged to dress up and look great for photos. Also consider choosing a location for a proposal near your restaurant reservations.
3. Check for events
Especially in Washington DC, make sure there are no large events, protest, rallies etc that may interfere with your plans! Holidays can also draw many tourist to memorials such as Memorial Day and 4th of July. Other times in DC that tend to be busier are cherry blossom peak bloom or inauguration.
4. Have a rain/backup plan
Having a plan B is always important for a proposal! Incase there is bad weather. Consider having a backup covered or indoor location. If your plans are flexible consider a reschedule date to avoid the bad weather.
5. Attire
Make sure you are looking your best. Have nail, haircut, or other personal appointments scheduled in the week leading up to the proposal.
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Washington DC Constitution Gardens Surprise Proposal
Constitution Gardens is one of the best locations in Washington DC for a surprise proposal with a Washington Monument view, but without the crowds of tourist! This location is normally very private, making it an ideal location for proposal plans! During the spring and summer the area is lush with greenery. Scroll below to view this surprise proposal:
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Georgetown Waterfront Sunset Surprise Proposal
Sunset is the perfect time to propose at the Georgetown Waterfront! The sun sets directly behind the Key Bridge and makes for the perfect romantic setting. For this surprise proposal we provided the “will you marry me” marquee letters for an extra surprise and extra spacial touch! When planning a surprise proposal in Georgetown, you have many great choice of restaurants nearby to schedule dinner plans for afterwards! Before the couple went to dinner we got additional portraits with the water and sunset!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Washington DC Surprise Proposal with a View at Cardozo High School
I photographed this surprise proposal at the parking lot at Cardozo High School in NW Washington DC! The parking lot has a great view of the city and the Washington Monument in the distance! The location was chosen due to special meaning to the couple as a place that they go to often to watch the sunset with the city view! Congratulations!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Stone Tower Winery Surprise Proposal
Stone Tower Winery is one of Northern Virginia’s many top rated wineries making it a perfect spot for a romantic surprise proposal with a view! Stone Tower is just over an hour drive outside of Washington DC in Leesburg, Virginia.
Wineries make a great choice for a surprise proposal for many reasons including beautiful backdrops, an easy excuse to bring your partner somewhere, and you can celebrate afterwards with a glass of wine!
For this surprise proposal, Diego brought his girlfriend on a wine tour and then reached the patio where he has gifts prearranged that included memories from their relationship. After opening the gifts, he proposed with the perfect backdrop!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Washington DC Lincoln Memorial Surprise Marriage Proposal
Sharing another beautiful surprise proposal at the Lincoln Memorial! The Lincoln has the perfect iconic Washington DC view! I have photographed many dozens of surprise proposals at the Lincoln and am extremely familiar with the area and best time to go! Typically I recommend early morning for great light and low volume of tourist! During the summer months, early morning is also recommend to avoid the heat! For this proposal the couples showed up wearing Nationals uniforms! Congratulations!
Looking for other location ideas? Here is a blog post of 20 Washington DC surprise proposal locations!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Washington, DC Custom Picnic Surprise Proposal Idea
For this surprise proposal at Jones Point Park I provided the photography as well as the setup which included the picnic table, fresh roses, and champagne glasses. The personalized book and bottle of champagne were provided by the client which I arranged for pickup. I had setup the picnic at a private location in the park where the couple stumbled upon the picnic! After the surprise proposal they enjoyed the picnic and Champagne!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Constitution Gardens Surprise Proposal in Washington DC
Constitution Gardens is a 50 acre park area in Washington DC within the boundaries of the National Mall! The 50-acre (200,000 m2) park is bounded on the west by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, on the east by 17th St NW, on the north by Constitution Avenue, and on the south by the Reflecting Pool. Coordinates: 38°53′27″N 77°2′40″WConstitution Gardens has a small pond, which contains an island open to pedestrians. I love this location for it’s perfect view of The Washington Monument and low tourist traffic! Compared to being directly at the Lincoln Memorial or other sites, this area tends to be much less busy! I have photographed at least a dozen surprise proposals here!
Looking for other location ideas? Here is a blog post of 20 Washington DC surprise proposal locations!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
US Capitol Balcony Surprise Proposal
This spring I photographed a surprise proposal at an iconic DC location: the balcony at the US Capitol overlooking the National Mall and Washington Monument. This proposal required additional planning and coordination by the couple. I was escorted by a staffer to the secure location, which allowed me to prepare for the big surprise. After the proposal, we got additional portraits on the balcony and traveled to the Lincoln Memorial for additional classic DC engagement photos.
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in DC 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 7 days. 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!
Brooklyn Bridge Park Surprise Proposal
I photographed this surprise proposal at sunset with the perfect view of the Manhattan Skyline in New York City at Brooklyn Bridge Park! In the Dumbo area of Brooklyn, you will find Brooklyn Bridge Park, one of the best areas for a view! After the surprise proposal there are many great dinning options in walking distance! Considering proposing here at sunset or slightly after sunset to get the lights of the city! If you are looking for other location ideas for your surprise proposal in NYC, check out this blog post!
Learn more about hiring a surprise proposal photographer in NYC 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 3 days. The online gallery is easy to share with friends and family!
Washington DC Hirshorn Sculpture Garden Surprise Proposal
Brian proposed to his girlfriend at the Hirshorn Sculpture Garden on the National Mall in Washington DC! The Hirshorn Museum was the location of their first date so it was the perfect spot for the surprise proposal! I helped pick the perfect spot for the moment based on the areas of the garden that were in bloom at the time and the spot with the best light! The sculpture garden is open everyday from 10am-4:30pm. The outdoor garden displays around 30 works of art year around.
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in Washington DC 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 7 days. 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!
Where to propose in NYC
Weather you live in New York City or are visiting for a trip, the city that never sleeps has endless locations for planning a surprise proposal! When choosing a location it’s important to consider what type of location you’re looking for. Is there a spot that has meaning to you as a couple? Do you want a more public or more private location? Are you look for a location with the perfect view of the Manhattan skyline?
Here are 16 locations to consider for your surprise proposal:
1. Central Park
3. Bow Bridge
5. Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk
6. Times Square
7. Wollman Rink
8. Top of the Empire State Building
9. The Brooklyn Bridge
10. Roof Garden at the Met
12. The High Line
13. Washington Square Park
14. Bronx Zoo
15. Grand Central Terminal
Interested in proposing at one of these locations or another location in New York City?
Learn more about planning a surprise proposal in NYC 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!
Washington DC Meridian Hill Park Wedding
Meridian Hill Park in NW Washington DC is a great location for a small wedding ceremony or elopement! The park has many areas that can be used for a small ceremony or wedding portraits.
Some information about Meridian Hill Park from the National Park Services website:
Notable Features
Lower Level
The thirteen basin cascading fountain is one of the longest in North America.
Below the cascading fountain is a reflecting pool.
The Noyes Armillary Sphere was a prominent feature in the lower plaza of the park. It was damaged in the 1960s and later disappeared. The National Park Service is working to have it replaced.
Upper Level
The Joan of Arc Statue is the only equestrian statue of a woman in Washington, D.C.
Hours:
Meridian Hill Park is open until 9PM in the winter and midnight in the summer.
Learn more about Wedding Photography in DC by using the contact form or emailing jonflemingphotography@gmail.com
