The 12 Best Places to Propose in Illinois for a Romantic Moment

Let's face it: asking someone to spend the rest of their life with you is a really big deal. And an exciting, special one at that. It's only natural that you'd want things to be perfect and, of course, romantic. But don't worry; if you're looking for the best places to propose in Illinois, the state thought of as one of the major cultural hubs of the U.S., there is no shortage of lovely spots to pop the question.

First things first: you've got to know your preferred vibe to find picture-perfect Illinois proposal ideas. Maybe you're into the city life of Chicago, or you want to capture the romantic idea you've got in your head—either way, you'll find something worthy in Illinois. Of course, you could always use The Knot Vendor Marketplace in your search for a location or engagement photographer, but to help you get started, we've compiled a list of 12 locations to get the ideas flowing, below.

Shawnee National Forest, Herod, Illinois

Located in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest could be just the fit if you're looking for a proposal spot that screams nature. While well-known, this national park isn't overly crowded, making it a great place for a more secluded Illinois proposal idea. The land has truly incredible rock formations like Garden of the Gods, plus hiking trails like Rim Rock Trail. Spend the day (or morning) hiking the trail, and when you get to where the view is most striking, get down on one knee—but for this one, make sure your partner loves the outdoors.

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

The Morton Arboretum, Lisle, Illinois

Need tips on proposals? If you and your partner are nature lovers, The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois is sure to be a hit. Plan a day date of adventuring in the over 1,700 acres of stunning tree-lined gardens, forests and natural landscapes, or plan an evening proposal before sunset in one of the many secluded spots in the arboretum — for a private proposal and striking photos that you and your life partner will look at for years to come.

Millennium Park, Chicago, Illinois

Photo: Massimo Borchi/Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

When folks think of Chicago, naturally, they probably think of the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture—known as the Bean—next to the Lurie Garden in Millennium Park. If your hometown is Chicago, or you're looking to pop the question next to something known by most as a staple of the city, then this could be for you.

We recommend planning an early morning walk with your lover, after a romantic breakfast in the park, to capture the proposal without huge crowds around. But if you don't want to deal with those kinds of details, you can always hire a proposal planner, who can iron it all out so you can really be in the moment.

Starved Rock State Park, Utica, Illinois

Calling all nature girlies—and folks of any gender, of course. If you and your partner are into hiking, waterfalls and climbing on top of stunning canyons, then Starved Rock State Park in Utica could be one of the most romantic places to propose in Illinois. Enjoy a morning of hiking, and then midday, plan your proposal along the Illinois River, either in private or with a photographer somewhere in tow. Your nature-loving honey is sure to love how romantic, thoughtful and well-planned it is.

StarView Vineyards, Cobden, Illinois

Any wine lovers here? If so, the StarView Vineyards on the well-known Shawnee Hills Wine Trail could be just the romantic spot for your proposal. The property not only has amazing wine, tastings and gardens, but also has panoramic views of the nearby vineyards and hills. Think: Proposing during a wine tasting session or while enjoying a sunset while talking about how much you love your person. Let the romance begin.

The Town of Galena, Galena, Illinois

Photo: Wirestock / Getty Images

Calling all history buffs. The historic town of Galena—a small town in northwest Illinois known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings like the 1826 Dowling House—might be the winner for romantic proposal destinations. If you and your partner both love the history of a charming Main Street, old buildings, plus a stunning countryside, then consider spending a weekend there before finding the courage to get down on one knee.

Cantigny Park, Wheaton, Illinois

If you're looking for a truly romantic place to propose, Cantigny Park in Wheaton, Illinois could speak volumes to your love. Known as a 500-acre park 30 miles west of Chicago, it is the former estate of Joseph Medill and his grandson Colonel Robert R. McCormick, the publishers of the Chicago Tribune. The property is strewn with beautiful gardens, a historic mansion and, of course, plenty of tucked away spots for a romantic proposal. Your photographer can tag along, or even hide from far away, until the moment is right.

Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, Illinois

In our opinion, there is not a lot higher on the list of romantic places to propose in Illinois than the Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Illinois. Both a serene and meticulously landscaped Japanese garden, this 12-acre property is filled with ponds, waterfalls and amazing greenery that would capture well in photos. Now open for the 2024 season, venture there for a day date and then scope out where the perfect proposal spot is. Of course, with the romance and nature around, the mood will definitely get there just in time.

Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton, Illinois

More nature for the win. At Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton, Illinois you and your partner can enjoy a romantic picnic or a hike along the stunning bluffs and nature trails. Once you're at the top, overlooking the Illinois River, you'll be in the most perfect (and private place) for a secluded proposal that speaks to you and your honey's love.

Grosse Point Lighthouse, Evanston, Illinois

Photo: Vito Palmisano / Getty Images

Located in Evanston, Illinois you and your soon-to-be-spouse can have a romantic adventure together, exploring Grosse Point Lighthouse—a historic lighthouse built in 1873 on Lake Michigan. Not only does it have picturesque views of the lake, but has true potential for a romantic lakeside proposal, out on the grass or in the tower. Remember: if romance is on your proposal checklist, you won't miss it here.

Allerton Park and Retreat Center, Monticello, Illinois

Built in 1917, Allerton Park and Retreat Center is a relaxed, off-the-beaten path place for proposal ideas in illinois. The estate, which was the former home of artist and philanthropist Robert Allerton, was completed in 1900, and was a safe space for him and his family. Now, though, this 1,500-acre park is open to the public and has adorable gardens, crafted sculptures, plus the home itself, which is a Georgian-style mansion. If you want to propose—no matter if it's snowing or full of sunshine—this property is a really peaceful and gorgeous place to do it.

Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa, Galena, Illinois

We've already suggested heading to the town of Galena for a proposal, but if you're looking for a more specific destination for your special day, we highly recommend checking out Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa. You can really choose to make a weekend of it—stay in their cozy inn or luxury villa, get couples massages and get pampered together on the property—before having an amazing meal together. Whether you're wrapped in a sauna together, or having a romantic meal, there will be plenty of times to confess your feelings and ask your partner to spend the rest of their life with you.