12 of the Best Places to Propose in Detroit

Proposing to the person you love requires a lot of planning. What will you say, how will you celebrate after, and perhaps the biggest of all, where will you do it? If you're planning to pop the question, there are plenty of fantastic places to propose in Detroit. The hardest part will be deciding which is the perfect place.

We spoke with Kai Davis of Kai Davis Photography, based in the greater Detroit, Michigan, area, to get her take on proposing in Detroit and some of her top places to do it. When you've picked a location, head to The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find a proposal planner and the perfect photographer to capture the moment.

How to Decide Where to Propose in Detroit

When you're thinking about the best place to propose in Detroit, you'll want to consider a few factors. Time of day, day of the week and time of year can all have an impact on the location of your choice, so you'll want to think about the timing. Davis recommends thinking about crowds as well. "I would look for an aesthetic location that is not crowded with a ton of foot traffic. A place where it shows the scene of Detroit, but on the private side where you can cherish your memories of the proposal." Translation: Maybe avoid a proposal downtown right as a Lions game is letting out. You'll also want to consider if there are any special places that have meaning for you and your partner. Did you say "I love you" at a specific restaurant? Where was your first date? Calling back to these special moments will create an unforgettable proposal.

The Best Time of the Year for a Detroit Proposal

The best time of year to propose in Detroit is in the spring or summer. The average temperature is in the low 70s, making it pleasant to pop the question outside. The flowers blossom around then and the city is bustling. As for the time of day, Davis recommends sunset. "Golden hour is the best time. The sunlight during golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) is softer and warmer, casting a gentle golden glow. This helps to create warm skin tones and a cozy, dreamy atmosphere, ideal for portraits, landscapes and architecture shots."

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

12 Proposal Locations in Detroit

Whether you want a lush outdoor backdrop or an iconic city view, Detroit has a little bit of everything, making it a perfect place to pop the question.

1. Detroit Riverwalk

There are plenty of picturesque spots along the east riverfront to stop and pop the question. From parks and plazas to pavilions and pathways and lots of open green space, many places feature a scenic backdrop. "Although a bit busy, this location displays the heart of the city," Davis says.

2. Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory

Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory works as a proposal location during any time of year. Located in Belle Isle Park, you'll be surrounded by exotic plants, or if you choose to propose on the 13-acre grounds, your options expand. A formal perennial garden and a lily pond garden make beautiful proposal backdrops.

3. Highlands Detroit

If proposing in an upscale restaurant is something you're considering, Highlands Detroit has it all. Located on the 72nd floor of Detroit's most iconic landmark, the GMRenCen, you can take in a bird's eye view of the city right from your seat. Enjoy a multi-concept culinary experience before getting down on one knee. Plus, they have an event space so you can celebrate with friends and family after.

4. Michigan Central Station

"The iconic Detroit landmark is a perfect intimate background for your proposal. It showcases its historic architecture in a soft, elegant way," Davis describes. "It has become one of my new favorite locations to shoot sessions."

5. Sunset Point on Belle Isle

There's nothing quite as romantic as watching a sunset with the person you love. As you and your partner watch the sun go down on the island's western edge, drop to a knee and ask them to marry you. It'll be a memorable moment you can cherish for years to come.

6. The Fisher Building

Photo: The Fisher Building

Designed by Alberto Kahn, The Fisher Building is described on its website as "a beacon in the heart of Detroit honoring the city and its people." Dubbed "Detroit's largest art object," the 441-foot tower features magnificent displays of mosaics, marbles and brass that would make a perfect Detroit proposal backdrop.

7. Campus Martius Park

If you want a proposal idea in Detroit during the holiday season, there's no better place than Campus Martius Park right downtown. Not only is it easy for friends, family and the photographer to stay hidden while you propose, but the Christmas tree and ice skating rink make it a festive place to ask this very important question.

8. Parker's Alley

"This location has become a city gem," Davis says. "It gives a city urban vibe with a romantic twist. Depending on the season, you may find it decorated with a theme. It's super cute in February around Valentine's Day."

9. The Whitney

Photo: The Whitney

This is another must-visit restaurant in Detroit, but this time, it is set inside an iconic mansion. With three unique locations within the property, you have your choice of proposal settings—the restaurant itself, the sleek bar and the gardens. They also do events on-site if you want to celebrate afterward.

10. Detroit Institute of Arts Museum

Whether you're an art lover or not, there's no denying the vast beauty of the Detroit Institute of Arts Museum. Whether you propose on the steps outside the museum surrounded by white marble, in front of the fountain or surrounded by masterpieces inside, the perfect proposal backdrop does exist.

11. Detroit Public Library

Make like Carrie Bradshaw and pop the question surrounded by the greatest love stories ever written. Not to mention, the Detroit Public Library has a stunning interior made of Italian marble and transformative murals.

12. Palmer Park

As one of the largest parks in Detroit, the 281 acres of woodlands and meadows of Palmer Park have a lot of promise as a proposal spot. The meadows feature blooming florals, benches to sit on and gorgeous greenery to admire. The forests and rivers truly allow you to immerse yourself in nature and escape from the city.