From classic rock to bumpin' new pop songs, here's a curated list of crowd-pleasers.
Updated Mar 06, 20258 Amazing Cleveland Engagement Photo Locations
For the artsy couple, the outdoor lovers and anyone in between, here are the best places to take engagement photos in Cleveland, Ohio.
Photo: Kenneth Sponsler | Shutterstock
Cleveland is a midwestern city with a lot to offer, including wonderful places for engagement photos. Here, you'll find a thriving arts district, a glittering theatre that rivals that of Broadway and a beautiful downtown that boasts cherry blossoms in springtime. We're bringing you eight Cleveland engagement photo locations to consider, from beachfront parks to rich, historical sites. As you search for your perfect spot, remember The Knot Vendor Marketplace is a great place to find both an engagement photographer and a list of unique venues in Cleveland, Ohio.
1. Cleveland Museum of Art
Regardless of whether you and your partner are art lovers, the Cleveland Museum of Art should top your list of the best places to take engagement photos in Cleveland, Ohio. It's beautiful both inside and out, with a lush green lawn that boasts an ornate fountain. Inside, a light-filled atrium makes a beautiful spot for photos. You could also opt for the grand staircase that gives way to an arched entryway reminiscent of ancient Greek architecture for your Cleveland Museum of Art engagement photos.
2. Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park
Widely considered the best beach in Ohio, Fairport Harbor offers tons of potential for your waterfront engagement photos. Open daily and year-round from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., this beautiful location features a family-friendly beach, picnic areas and plenty of vegetation to practice your favorite couple poses for your engagement photo session. Sunset snaps turn out amazing here, while early mornings tend to offer more privacy as you walk the beach hand in hand.
FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT
3. Playhouse Square Theatre District
Photo: Kenneth Sponsler | Shutterstock
If you love the bright lights of Broadway but want to save some coin traveling to your engagement photo location, check out Playhouse Square in Cleveland. Here, you'll find the glitz and glam of Broadway with marquee lights and a stunning theatre without the intense crowds and high prices. Find an engagement photographer skilled in taking nighttime shots for a glamorous, art-centric engagement photo shoot.
4. Cleveland Cultural Gardens
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens consist of several gardens located in Rockefeller Park in the heart of the city. Here, you'll find more potential than you could dream about in a convenient location. Lush foliage, peaceful statues and even dramatic tapestries lend themselves to beautiful Cleveland engagement photos in a natural, diversity-centric setting.
5. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
Located about 45 minutes outside Cleveland in Akron, Ohio, the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is a super popular place for engagement photos. And for good reason: This stunning property offers tons of photo ops, from a grand staircase inside the mansion to lush foliage and flower gardens sprinkled around the grounds. The Corbin Conservatory, a Gothic-style greenhouse, is a popular backdrop for photos as well. For photography sessions, the estate requires advance notice to best accommodate your needs.
6. Cleveland City Hall Rotunda
Photo: Nagel Photography | Shutterstock
With its dramatic columns and marble floors, the grand, spacious rotunda at Cleveland City Hall is a popular wedding venue for local couples. But you can obtain a special use permit to take your engagement photos in this beautiful building, too. The form can be obtained online, and it's a simple process for approval. Be sure to schedule at least 14 days prior to your desired engagement photo date.
7. The Old Courthouse
Break out your fanciest engagement photo outfits and head to The Old Courthouse for an absolutely stunning indoor spot for engagement photos in Cleveland, Ohio. The spacious atrium lends an upscale historical appeal with dramatic pillars, intricate lamp posts and a grand staircase. Low lighting offers an elegant vibe, while the classic architecture makes for a beautiful backdrop. If the weather cooperates, you could take some photos on the outside staircase as well for a bit of variety.
8. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Did you or your partner pull off a successful zoo proposal? How romantic! Perhaps it's time to have an engagement photo session at the zoo. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo will happily host your special pictures. At this unique location, you'll find a rustic lodge, an amazing rainforest and, of course, plenty of animal exhibits. Bring your photographer for a day of fun and photos, or work with the on-site event staff to schedule your time slot to ensure you get exactly what you're looking for.
