The 15 Best Places to Propose in Florida for a Magical Engagement
The best places to propose in Florida are plentiful which is why we're here to help you find the best of the best to execute the proposal of your dreams. Whether you're looking for a romantic venue or a creative one (or both), we've got you covered.
We tapped Orlando-based proposal photographer Albert Harris of A. Harris Photography and Amber Walker, CEO of Amber Walker Events who has planned more than 36 Florida proposals, to gather some of their insights about as well as their recommendations regarding the best places to propose in Florida.
Once you've solidified the venue which checks off all of the boxes on your proposal checklist, you can utilize The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find proposal planners, proposal photographers and other vendors who can help you pull off your proposal without a hitch.
In this story:
- How to Decide Where to Propose in Florida
- The Best Time of the Year to Propose in Florida
- Romantic Places to Propose in Florida
- Scenic Places to Propose in Florida
- Creative Places to Propose in Florida
How to Decide Where to Propose in Florida
When deciding on the best place to propose in Florida, you can rest assured that you will be able to find a venue for you to pop the question that will suit both you and your partner's preferences as the state spans nearly 68,000 square miles. What makes Florida a great place to propose is its uniqueness. "Each city in Florida offers something different," says Walker." "The west and east coasts offer different energies."
We can't fail to mention that Florida is tourist-heavy as it is home to several world-renowned theme parks, beaches, restaurants and more. Narrowing down whether or not you're okay with the potential of having many strangers witnessing your moment is something to think about when considering your options of places to propose in Florida. Whether you see yourself presenting the ring in Miami or Orlando, keeping in mind you (and your partner's) interests and proposal must-haves will help guide you in finding your dream Florida proposal location.
The Best Time of the Year to Propose in Florida
The best time of year for a Florida proposal will depend on your preferences. However, it is important to note that Florida is warmer and humid more months of the year than not. With that said, planning for your proposal to take place October through March is ideal. "The best time to propose in Florida would be October-March as the humidity would be non-existent," says Harris. "In the summer months you'll be sweating through your shirt should you decide to propose during that time and photographers do charge to remove sweat from shirts."
Walker adds that planning your proposal between September and November is a good idea as hurricane season has typically passed by that point of the year.
Romantic Places to Propose in Florida
If you're looking for romantic places to propose in Florida, there's certainly no shortage. Read on for some of our favorite charming proposal locations in the Orange State.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota, Florida
Flower lovers will appreciate a proposal at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota, Florida. With more than 45 acres of sanctuaries, it's unlikely that you won't find one of your partner's favorite flowers in front of which you can present them with the ring.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando in Orlando, Florida
Propose amongst luxury at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando. "The Four Seasons Orlando is on my list due to its tall palm trees that make for a luxurious feel," says Harris. Furthermore, its lobby is filled with elegant chandeliers which would look stunning in proposal photos. If you would like food and drinks to be part of your moment, you can head up to the 17th floor to experience Capa which is one of the resort's more elegant restaurants–don't forget to go outside to the terrace to catch views of the Walt Disney World fireworks.
Lake Eola Park in Orlando, Florida
Plan a romantic proposal at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando. You can take a walk on the park's sidewalk lining before renting a swan-shaped paddle boat. You can have your photographer stand just outside the water to take some action shots of you and your partner paddling away when you ask the question.
Kraft Azalea Garden in Winter Park, Florida
Kraft Azalea Garden is a 5.22-acre garden nestled in the heart of Orlando's Winter Park neighborhood. "If you're looking for a pretty scenic location, Kraft Azalea is just perfect with its tall moss trees that when combined during golden hour make for a gorgeous backdrop," says Harris.
Vizcaya Museum and Garden in Miami, Florida
Nothing says elegance quite like Miami's Vizcaya Museum and Garden. With more than 38,000 square feet of space on the estate to explore, it's unlikely you won't find the perfect area for popping the question. Since this museum is a popular tourist destination, you must reserve your tickets online in advance–we recommend doing so a couple of weeks before your desired proposal date. If you plan on having photographs taken, ensure you have the correct permit (additional information can be found on the website)
Scenic Places to Propose in Florida
If a gorgeous view is a proposal must-have for you, consider picturesque spots in various parts of the state.
Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando, Florida
For an Orlando proposal filled with flowers, Harris recommends heading over to the 50-acre Harry P. Leu Gardens. "Harry P. Leu Gardens is another beautiful place to propose due to the fact there are so many backdrops to choose from," explains Harris. "Whether you want floral or a walk through an enchanted forest, those kinds of photos can indeed be created."
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Sandestin, Florida
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa offers one of the best views of Miramar Beach which could serve as a breathtaking backdrop for when you pop the question and look back at photos later. After your partner says "yes," you can head to Serenity by the Sea for an award-winning meal at the hotel's four-diamond steakhouse–we don't think a beach proposal can't get much better than that.
Beacon at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street in Tampa, Florida
You can celebrate the start of your next chapter surrounded by a plethora of plants, cocktails and small bites at the highest rooftop bar in Tampa. Beacon is located on the 27th floor of the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street and offers 270-degree views of Tampa Bay. If you're looking to reserve more than just a table for you and your partner (reservations are required for this lounge), there's a private dining room that can be rented out if you're looking to keep your engagement to just you two (and your server).
Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters in Key West, Florida
Walker recommends proposing at the Key West Lighthouse & Keepers Quarters if you want to propose in the Florida Keys. With enough outdoor space to comfortably accommodate up to 75 people (which could work if you want to have your friends and family by your side), this historic venue not only offers a great deal of greenery but water views as well.
California Grill at Walt Disney World's Contemporary Resort in Orlando, Florida
If you've envisioned a Disney proposal filled with fireworks and smiles, that's exactly what you'll get when you pop the question at California Grill at Walt Disney World's Contemporary Resort. We recommend booking a table as close to fireworks time as possible and heading out to the balcony to present the ring as soon as the fireworks start so you can head inside and enjoy your three-course prix fixe meal afterward.
Ella's Cottages at Kimpton Key West in Key West, Florida
Get down on one knee at one of Ella's Cottages at Kimpton Key West for a proposal that'll make history, literally. Ella's Cottages established in 1948 offer a charming venue filled with vibrant colors and quaint furniture. If an outdoor patio proposal piques your interest, you could reserve a cottage with a patio and ask them to be yours forever from the privacy of your own space without anyone else around–except maybe for your proposal photographer if you plan on hiring one.
Creative Places to Propose in Florida
If you plan on getting creative with your proposal, having your venue match can be a change. However, there's no need to worry as we've compiled a list of places that will allow you to let your creativity run free when planning your special moment.
The Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West, Florida
If your partner is a literature lover and avid reader, Walker recommends a proposal at The Hemingway Home & Museum. Whether you opt to pop the question in the garden or during one of the offered tours, your partner will appreciate the intimate estate's rich history and beauty. And, you may even see a cat or two during your time at the museum.
Country Carriages in Saint Augustine, Florida
Pop the question during one of Country Carriage's 45-minute horse-drawn carriage tours of Saint Augustine's downtown historic district. If your partner is a Cinderella fan, you can book their "Cinderella Carriage" offering for an extra magical touch. Regardless of the carriage ride you book, it is best practice to inform your coachman of your proposal plans before your ride.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, Florida
If you're planning a proposal for an art lover, take them to The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. After you take a look at the museum's 21 galleries, you can set up a picnic for you and your partner in one of the designated picnicking areas and ask them to be yours forever while you enjoy each other's company and surrounding beauty.
The Florida Aquarium in Tampa, Florida
Treat your partner to a proposal at The Florida Aquarium. With a 500,000-gallon floor-to-ceiling window overlooking a plethora of aquatic life, you can rest assured that your special moment will go swimmingly (and that you'll have a lively backdrop in any photos).