12 Romantic Places to Propose in Iowa

If you're planning on popping the question in Iowa, consider these gorgeous proposal spots.
Waterfall at Lake Macbride Spillway in Iowa
Photo: Aria_RJWarren | Shutterstock
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Brittany Barber
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Brittany Barber
The Knot Contributor
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Updated Oct 23, 2024

When it comes to places to propose in Iowa, there's quite a range of beautiful spots to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quiet place in nature or a historic building in Iowa City, we've got you covered.

Our editors spoke with Olivia Katherine, a wedding and proposal photographer who works with her husband to capture special moments for couples. As a local to Iowa, she gave us a few pointers on romantic ways to propose across the state. "My biggest tip is to have a plan, be open to the plan changing if needed, and over-communicate with your photographer so they know exactly when and where to be when you decide to get on one knee," she advises.

When asked what to keep in mind when choosing a photographer to capture your Iowa proposal, Katherine provided these tips:

  • Find someone you connect with and who has great communication skills.
  • Talk to them on the phone, get to know them and make sure you feel comfortable around them—this can help you feel so much more comfortable during an already nerve-racking experience.
  • Look at their portfolio and ask to see prior proposal photos so you can get an idea of how they shoot and their experience.

Below, Katherine provided some top-notch spots to propose. Check out Katherine's Instagram portfolio and head over to The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find even more proposal planning experts in Iowa.

Backbone State Park, Dundee, IA

According to Katherine, Backbone State Park offers plenty of privacy and natural beauty, making it a lovely location to get down on one knee. If you're both outdoor enthusiasts, the park's hiking trails and picturesque scenery will make the moment feel extra special. "Beautiful cliffsides and overlooks make for a perfect proposal spot," Katherine says.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Des Moines, IA

Drone view of dome venue in Iowa
Photo: cnetten | Shutterstock

For places to propose in Des Moines, Iowa, Katherine recommends the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden for plant lovers, offering a colorful, lush setting with lots of color and texture. This garden ensures year-round beauty that'll work well for your proposal photographs—plus it's indoors, so you won't have to worry about the weather.

Dunning's Spring Park, Decorah, IA

Dunning's Spring Park features a gorgeous waterfall tucked away among Northern Iowa's forests. Katherine recommends going in the fall when the surrounding trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow. The waterfall backdrop makes for stunning engagement photos and the secluded feel adds a touch of intimacy.

Lake Macbride Spillway, Solon, IA

Whether you love the sound of water or the peace and quiet of wide open spaces, this beautiful place to propose in Iowa offers an idyllic setting for a memorable proposal. "There are so many great areas around Lake Macbride, but this spot is my go-to," Katherine says of the Spillway. "Beautiful rushing water over the rocks surrounded by lush trees and the open water along with a hilltop that overlooks the entire lake," she describes.

Mines of Spain, Dubuque, IA

Stone tower beside water at the Mines of Spain, Iowa
Photo: EWY Media | Shutterstock

Mines of Spain in Dubuque offers a mix of bluffs, forests and prairie landscapes, making it an outdoor lover's dream for a proposal. The nearby Julien Dubuque Monument provides an especially striking overlook of the Mississippi River, giving you a particularly scenic setting for your special moment.

Wilson's Ciderhouse, Iowa City, IA

An orchard proposal at Wilson's Ciderhouse combines the charm of apple picking with a cozy, autumnal vibe. "There's something about picking apples in the crisp air and the smell of pumpkin spice that screams proposal season," Katherine says. "And Wilson's Ciderhouse is the perfect spot, with one location in Eastern Iowa and one in Central Iowa."

Ledges State Park, Madrid, IA

Known for its towering sandstone ledges and iconic stone bridge, Katherine recommends Ledges State Park for couples who enjoy hiking and being in nature. The park's rugged terrain and stoic cliffs create a stellar landscape for an outdoorsy place to propose in Iowa.

Pikes Peak State Park, McGregor, IA

Imagine proposing while overlooking the mighty Mississippi River at the original Pikes Peak. This location offers breathtaking views of river valleys, with several lookout points and trails that lead to hidden gems like Bridal Veil Falls. You can also camp there if you'd like to turn your special moment into a weekend getaway.

Reiman Gardens, Ames, IA

Reiman Gardens offers more than 17 acres of stunning botanical gardens, including a butterfly exhibit and tropical plant collections. If you and your partner enjoy the serenity of nature, pop the question surrounded by vibrant flowers for a romantic, storybook-like moment. Reiman Gardens offers several events, programs, lectures and tours, so make sure to see what's going on before your visit.

Old Capitol Museum, Iowa City, IA

For history lovers, the Old Capitol Museum offers an iconic backdrop for your special moment. Its impressive architecture creates a sense of grandeur, while the surrounding grounds provide some nice spots to get down on one knee.

Imes Bridge, St. Charles, IA

Historic wooden red bridge in Iowa
Photo: Erin Cogswell | Shutterstock

The Imes Bridge, part of the famous Madison County covered bridges, offers a charming setting for getting down on one knee. It's perfect for a proposal steeped in tradition and nostalgia, especially if you're fans of Clint Eastwood's '90s film, The Bridges of Madison County.

Cutler-Donahoe Bridge, Winterset, IA

Another of Madison County's famous covered bridges, the Cutler-Donahoe Bridge provides a rustic location for popping the question. Its quaint design and whimsical setting at the entrance of Winterset City Park make it ideal for a low-key, romantic moment.

Bonus: If it's up your alley, consider organizing proposal concierge services for an extra-special proposal moment. Otherwise, take a look at our wedding proposal checklist to make sure you're well-prepared. Once you're engaged, check out our wedding planning tips to help you figure out your next steps.

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