Whether you call the Big Apple home or are just in town for a visit, New York City is a perfect city to propose. As one of the most romantic cities in the world, it offers plenty of breathtaking spots for you to drop to one knee and pull out that sparkly diamond ring. If you're looking for ideas on where to pop the question, read through this list of the 12 best places in New York City to do so.
1. Brooklyn Botanical Garden
Considered one of the horticultural gems in the city, the Brooklyn Botanical Garden is simply beautiful year-round, thanks in part to the meticulous care to planting. The garden is at its best, however, in late May and early June when the foliage is at its full peak. There are plenty of places to select, including the Cherry Esplanade, Japanese Garden, or any of the indoor pavilions.
2. Brooklyn Heights Promenade
For an ultimate view of the Manhattan skyline, head over to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. Although the walkway is only 1/3-mile long, the views are simply stunning, especially if it's during sunset or the evening hours when the city is illuminated. Take a stroll with your sweetheart, and stop at one of the benches to ask the big question.
3. Central Park
Amassing 843 acres, Central Park has so many romantic places to choose from. Gapstow Bridge near 62nd Street gives you one of the best views of the skyline, while Bow Bridge at sunset gives you equally amazing views. Head over to the Bethesda Fountain Terrace, which is one of the park's most iconic locations, and propose near the fountain. Another popular spot is the Belvedere Castle Terrace, which overlooks several famous Central Park landmarks. The park tends to get crowded when the weather is nice, so bring your beloved in the early morning for a more intimate moment.
4. Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk
Spend the entire day going back and forth between the beach and amusement park. You can select a private moment atop the Ferris wheel, or walk down the end of the boardwalk near Manhattan Beach to pop the question.
5. Empire State Building
A true symbol of love in New York City, the 102-story Empire State Building has served as the backdrop for numerous rom-com movies. Try to avoid the crowds and choose an off-peak time to visit. You can request a special song to set the mood, thanks to a saxophonist on the 86th Floor Observatory. The musician performs on Thursdays through Sundays from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. in the summer and until midnight the rest of the year.
6. Governors Island
Although you might not think of a former military base as a romantic place to propose, don't write off Governors Island. Just a quick ferry ride from Manhattan, the island has several parks perfect for picnicking, or rent a bike and take a leisurely ride. The southwestern part of the island at Picnic Point is an excellent spot, as it offers some of the best views of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island.
7. Grand Central Terminal
When you think of train stations, you might lean toward romance and adventure, and Grand Central Terminal fits the bill. Avoid rush hour unless you want to get caught up in the masses; instead, off-peak hours bode well for professing your love. Romantic spots include the double staircase constructed out of marble, near the four-sided opal clock, or even beneath the zodiac ceiling.
8. High Line
An elevated park, the High Line stretches more than a mile along former train tracks. Opened in 2009, the park allows you to walk from the Meatpacking District to Midtown. You're afforded breathtaking views of the city skyline and Hudson River. During the weekend, crowds can reach epic proportions, so plan your proposal accordingly if you want a quiet spot or empty bench. Afterward, celebrate your engagement at one of the many restaurants and bars below.
9. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
For art lovers, The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the perfect location to propose. Take your beloved on a tour of one of the country's most famous art museums, and then step outside to The Cloisters. Located on 4 acres overlooking the Hudson River, The Cloisters is the only American museum dedicated to medieval art and architecture, giving you a quiet spot to profess your love.
10. The Rink at Rockefeller Center
During the holiday season, the ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center turns into a popular proposal spot. The rink is open from mid-October through early April, and even if you're not professional skaters, ice skating is a completely romantic activity. The rink even offers two proposal packages. Its Classic package allows the rink to clear, so it's just the two of you on the ice for the proposal. The Private package gives you 30 minutes of private ice for up to 12 people before opening or after closing. You can also select a song to play.
11. Staten Island Ferry
Take a boat ride and have the city's skyscape as your backdrop with the Staten Island Ferry. The boat takes continuous 25-minute trips between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island, passing the Statue of Liberty during the trek. A highlight of the trip is that there is no busy time to worry about as the ferry runs constantly. As a bonus, the entire ride is free.
12. Times Square
If you're a grand-gesture type of person, consider proposing at one of New York City's most iconic locations. You can rent a billboard in the famous square and bring your sweetheart to this bustling location. Your photo slideshow and message will appear on the billboard for approximately six minutes.
For more than 60 years, Martin Busch Jewelers has sold engagement rings to help people with their New York City proposals. With so many amazing places to propose in New York City, we wouldn't be surprised if we missed one of your favorites. If we did, contact us so we can add it to our list.