The best spots in the US for a cinematic proposal

If you’re thinking about popping the question but are unsure how to set the scene, here are the USA’s most cinematic proposal spots.

For a classic love story: NYC, New York

Any bookers planning a proposal in the Big Apple will have copious choices when it comes to a romantic setting. There are classic options like beneath the billboards of Times Square, under the celestial painted ceiling of Grand Central Station, on the Brooklyn Bridge, or atop the Empire State Building à la Sleepless in Seattle. But there are plenty of lesser-known alternatives if a group of onlookers isn’t your thing – a ferry around Manhattan will provide great cityscape views and will be more low-key. Stay at The Sherry Netherland, a grand hotel on Fifth Avenue that’s perfect for classic romantics.

For a Disney fairy tale: Orlando, Florida

Proposing in Orlando’s magical world of Walt Disney is the epitome of a fairy tale. Popping the question on bended knee in front of the gold, cream and blue turrets of Cinderella’s Castle is probably the most cinematic spot. But there are so many romantic settings in the park to choose from, including atop a horse-drawn Disney carriage, during one of the three nightly fireworks displays in the Magic Kingdom, or on board a 4×4 for a wildlife safari through the Animal Kingdom. If you’re keen to make a grand gesture, the staff and many Disney characters will be happy to turn your proposal into a grand spectacle – whether it’s a singalong in Ariel’s Grotto or rousing the crowds to clap and cheer for you (perhaps even getting a flash mob) during a parade – happily ever after guaranteed. Bookers can stay in the midst of the action at the Walt Disney World Dolphin.

For retro romantics: York, Maine

In the USA’s northeastern corner is the state of Maine, where striped lighthouses are perched along the rocky coastline in between sandy coves, and sailboats chase the breeze across the green-blue Atlantic, creating a soothing and naturally stunning setting for a proposal. You could propose in the Acadia National Park, where waves crash onto ancient, coastal rock formations. Or atop Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast of the USA, which provides an unparalleled vantage point above pine and cedar forests, glacial lakes, and waterfalls tumbling over granite cliffs. Have a picnic of Maine’s speciality lobster rolls and crab cakes (plus champagne) to propose on the beach, or charter a yacht and get down on one knee during golden hour, when the scenery is at its most glorious. Bookers can check in to Union Bluff Hotel, a white wooden villa facing York Beach.

For chick flick fans: Hawaii, Hawaii

If you’re hoping to impress your proposee into a definite “yes,” the scenery of Hawaii should do the trick. Underneath a waterfall in the rainforest? While tandem skydiving over a volcano? Or, present them with the ring while they’re sipping on a piña colada and staring at one of Hawaii’s orange and pink beach sunsets. Bookers will enjoy the outdoor lava showers and hot tub at Ka’awa Loa Plantation B&B.

For Californian rom-com fans: Big Sur, California

Big Sur is a stretch of Californian coastline that has some of the USA’s most cinematic landscapes. There are cliffs that fall steeply into the Pacific, with thunderous waves that spray onto the rocks. There are forests of bright greens, hidden coves, misty sea views, and bridges that cross gaping ravines. The Big Sur has served to inspire many artists and writers, including Jack Kerouac in his love affair with the American landscape, so there’s a strong romantic connection too. Stay at Ventana Inn & Spa for the gorgeous outdoor pool, bedrooms with fireplaces, grand bathtubs and panoramic Pacific views.

For drama queens: Grand Canyon, Utah

With a Grand Canyon backdrop of contorted, burnt red-coloured rock contrasting against a deep blue sky, propose in a helicopter or standing on the glass Skywalk suspended above the canyon floor. Once you get the answer you’re looking for, drive to Las Vegas for a speedy and cheesy ceremony. Book a stay at the Sheridan House Inn, which sits at the foot of Bill Williams Mountain, is surrounded by forest, and is an hour’s drive from the Grand Canyon.