The Best Places to Propose in Connecticut for a Romantic Engagement
If you live in Connecticut and are thinking about proposing to your special someone, you might be at a loss where to get down on one knee. However, the best places to propose in Connecticut aren't so hard to find. There are a number of beautiful public parks, landmarks and scenic views across the state that can serve as the perfect location to have your proposal. Before you can even begin thinking about wedding planning, selecting a meaningful spot to ask your partner to tie the knot should be the first thing on your agenda. We suggest heading to The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find the best photographer for your proposal in your region. You can even find a proposal planner to help you make the moment even more special.
Ahead, we asked Justin Schwalbendorf of Schwalbs Photography to use his seven years of experience photographing engagements across the state for his advice of stunning places to propose. Read on to see the best places to propose across the Nutmeg State.
In this article:
- The Best Time of The Year to Propose in Connecticut
- The Best Places to Propose in Connecticut
- Romantic Places to Propose in Connecticut
- Scenic Places to Propose in Connecticut
The Best Time of The Year to Propose in Connecticut
There really is no time of year that you can't find a gorgeous spot to propose in Connecticut. If you love the snow, there are plenty of winter retreats to pop the question. Spring, summer and fall can bring about beautiful blooms and moody foliage to surround your proposal.
The Best Places to Propose in Connecticut
Read ahead to find the best proposal spots throughout the state of Connecticut.
Wadsworth Mansion
You can't go wrong with a proposal at Wadsworth Mansion. "I will say the grounds are just so pretty there really is not a bad time to shoot there," shares Schwalbendorf. "It truly comes alive late spring and early summer when the hydrangeas come out or even right during the spring when the roses bloom in the court in the back of the mansion. My other favorite time is when the leaves come during the fall and there is a cute little bridge to the left of the mansion."
Chamard Vineyards
For a beautiful fall proposal, take advantage of the stunning foliage and vines at Chamard Vineyards. "It truly is perfect," says Schwalbendorf. "The plus is that there is a restaurant on property so you can host a little get together afterwards with your family."
Yale University
There are few places in Connecticut more iconic than the campus of Yale University. "If you want that classic old New England feel, Yale is just one of those places that people just love looking around," notes Schwalbendorf. It's the perfect proposal spot if you and your partner attended the school together.
The Waveny House
Located in Waveny Park, The Waveny House is a historic Tudor mansion in New Canaan. Schwalbendorf says it's an amazing proposal spot thanks to its many options. He recommends taking advantage of the beautiful light at sunset for the most stunning photos.
Bushnell Park
One of the best parts of a proposal at the historic Bushnell Park in Hartford is its prime location for photos and more. "You are within walking distance to the Hartford Public Library, as well as the Hartford State Capitol," says Schwalbendorf. "The best part is choosing one of these places you can then meet with your family downtown for food and drinks to celebrate."
Romantic Places to Propose in Connecticut
Bring on the romance with a proposal at these charming Connecticut locations.
Inn at Mystic
If you love the holidays, make a stop to the Old Mystic Village and stay at the Inn at Mystic. "I will say this is the prettiest during Christmas when they have all the decor up," shares Schwalbendorf. "I did photograph a proposal one week before Christmas — yes it was busy but if you go during the week, you should not have any issues."
Southport Harbor
If you love a waterfront retreat, make your way to Southport Harbor in Fairfield County. "This is such a cute spot because there are so many sailboats and you are right by the water and cute little side streets," shares Schwalbendorf. "I love that you can have a classic New England feeling type of evening after your proposal."
Gillette Castle
Have a fairytale proposal in Connecticut by making your way to Gillette Castle to get down on one knee. "It really is amazing to look at," says Schwalbendorf. "I will say my favorite time to capture there is morning as the morning light is just so pretty."
Pond House Cafe at Elizabeth Park
Celebrate your new engagement at Pond House Cafe after a proposal on the stunning grounds of Elizabeth Park. "This place shines in the spring and summer months as the rose garden makes for such a stunning backdrop," notes Schwalbendorf. He also recommends planning a proposal here at sunrise or sunset for the incredible light.
Lighthouse Point
Take in the ocean views and get down on one knee next to a picturesque lighthouse in New Haven. "If you are looking for a lighthouse to photograph with then this is totally your jam," says Schwalbendorf.
Scenic Places to Propose in Connecticut
A gorgeous backdrop is guaranteed at these scenic places to propose.
Eolia Mansion at Harkness Memorial State Park
The Eolia Mansion at Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, Connecticut is the perfect scenic spot to propose and capture photos. "There is just so much you can do there," notes Schwalbendorf. "The grounds are just so stunning — you have the mansion, little tunnels with greenery wrapped around them, and the beach." He adds, "I highly suggest you go pretty much right at dusk, so you can get that pink cotton candy sky. My favorite time to capture my couples is during the spring and summer so you can really get the full effect of all the gardens."
Topsmead State Park
Formerly a family summer estate, Topsmead State Park is now a public forest and home guests are able to visit in Litchfield. "Topsmead is one of my favorite locations, especially in the fall when the leaves look so stunning," says Schwalbendorf. "It truly is one of the most magical spots. Tucked away in the woods, this place shines."
Devil's Hopyard State Park
Another scenic proposal location for an outdoorsy couple is Devil's Hopyard State Park. "My favorite spot in this whole park is the little pond," shares Schwalbendorf. "If you travel down the stones, you will also see an amazing waterfall."
Silver Sands State Park
A long boardwalk out to the water provides the perfect location for your summer proposal at Silver Sands State Park. "This place has stunning sky views since it is all ocean and sand with nice big rocks," notes Schwalbendorf. "I highly recommend this place to anyone."
Branford House
Located on the campus of University of Connecticut, Branford House is a beautiful location to ask someone to be your spouse. "This place has such stunning views with epic backdrops," says Schwalbendorf. This popular wedding venue features architecture similar to Newport mansions and even has a lighthouse.