Best Spots to Propose in Central Park
I bet you've found yourself here because you are thinking about proposing to your long-time partner who you cannot wait to share the rest of your life with, and you have decided that Central Park would be a lovely location! However, whether you're a NYC local or an out-of-towner, Central Park is so huge that it can be overwhelming to pick the perfect spot to actually get down on one knee.
Have no fear - your (soon-to-be) favorite NYC proposal photographer is here! I walk my dog in Central Park everyday, and I have photographed many proposals throughout this iconic park. Plus, my fiancé proposed to me in Central Park, too! With that said, here are some of my top spots to photograph a Central Park proposal. (You'll notice the common theme here: bridges and views!)
The Ramble
The Ramble is a series of twisty pathways through the trees on the northeast side of the lake in Central Park. There are several little pathways leading up to the edge of the lake that are great choices for a proposal location.
The Ramble can be a little tricky to navigate, so be sure to find an exact spot beforehand on Google Maps, or by walking around! (You'd be pleasantly surprised how well Google Maps works throughout Central Park, too.) This exact spot was complete with a bench and a view of the iconic San Remo in the background.
Bridge No. 28
You can find Bridge No. 28 connecting the northwest part of the Reservoir and the Bridle Path. The easiest way to get here is to enter Central Park from the W 90th St entrance, or meander along the edge of the Reservoir.
This location has little foot-traffic and it is a great choice for a proposal that is more private and set apart from any crowds. In the winter, you can see the Reservoir in the background, and in the summer there is a tree-filled view along the water.
Gapstow Bridge
In the southeast corner of Central Park, you will find Gapstow Bridge crossing over the pond. If you enter the park from the corner of 5th Ave and E 59th Street and walk along the path next to the pond, you will find the perfect alcove to pop the question.
The southern part of Central Park tends to be more filled with tourists, but have no fear -- you can ask your photographer to clear the area of tourists beforehand to make sure that you have a semi-private moment (and your photographer can have an unobscured view, too)!
The Bow Bridge
The Bow Bridge is an iconic NYC proposal location, and proposals here are giving straight-out-of-the-movies vibes. It is described on Google as "scenic, 1862 pedestrian bridge with a decorative banister is a well-known romantic spot."
The Bow Bridge can get crowded with Central Park visitors, including tourists, runners, and dogs; so if you want to propose here, it's best to do it early in the morning or on a weekday when there are less people. However, if you don't mind a few people milling nearby, this is a great location. Plus, you'll get lots of claps and congratulations immediately afterwards!
Fun fact: This is where I got engaged! :)
Bow Bridge - Wood Chip Vantage Point
If you don't want to propose directly on the Bow Bridge, you can propose with a view of it in the back. Right at the edge of the Ramble and across the Bow Bridge, you will find the Wood Chip Vantage Point. There is an uncovered deck-like spot right on the water that is the perfect size for proposing. If you'd like, you can even ask your photographer to set up rose petals, candles, or other decor on the deck to add to the surprise for your new fiancée!
The advantage of this spot is that it has the scenery of the Bow Bridge, the lake, and paddling rowboats behind it. At the same time, it is very easy to make sure there are not other people in this spot which gives it a more private feeling even in a busy part of Central Park.
Belvedere Castle
The gothic-style Belvedere Castle stands out from other spots in Central Park with its beautiful architecture overlooking the Shakespeare Garden, the Great Lawn, and more. The castle is the second highest point in the park and is very picturesque.
There is a large plaza here and several spots for a picture-perfect proposal that will be unforgettable. This spot also has some covered areas, which makes for a great rain plan!
