An Expert's Guide to the Best Places to Propose in Louisiana

As a melting pot for African, French and Canadian cultures, Louisiana knows how to celebrate the good things in life with fine food and festivals. The state's resilience amidst hurricanes only adds to the romance found here, making it hard to narrow down the best places to propose in Louisiana. To help with this task, we spoke with local engagement and wedding photographer Sarah Shaw of Sarah Shaw Photography to learn the most romantic and creative spots to start the next phase of your relationship. To begin planning your engagement and wedding, head to The Knot Vendor Marketplace for the industry's best proposal planners, photographers and venues, and as the locals would say, laissez les bon temps rouler!

In this article:

• The Best Time of The Year to Propose in Louisiana
• The Best Places to Propose in Louisiana
• Romantic Places to Propose in Louisiana
• Creative Places to Propose in Louisiana

The Best Time of The Year to Propose in Louisiana

One of Shaw's favorite times to shoot proposals in Louisiana is April, as "the temperatures are cool and crisp," with the runner-up being October when the "temperatures are still mostly pleasant, ranging anywhere from 60 to 80 degrees outside." She also highlights that "New Year's Eve is one of the most popular, romantic dates to propose, making a January wedding the following year quite feasible."

Shaw emphasizes anyone planning a proposal should consider the state's weather, hurricane and football season as well as festival schedules such as Mardi Gras, which runs from January to early March. She notes the spring festival season is a wonderful time to get engaged, as everyone wants to get out and about before the summer heat and humidity, or "season of misery" as she calls it, sets in.

Late August through September is hurricane season, which means you'll need a rain plan for popping the question during this time. Shaw shares that there is a "significantly higher threat for South Louisiana to be slammed with a hurricane than for the rest of the state," but it is something to consider if you're anywhere within state lines.

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Lastly, August through December is football season, which is a big deal in Louisiana. Shaw admitted that she once left a very close cousin's wedding because there was no ability to watch a major LSU-Florida game. So, she "always advises couples to consider football season." If your engagement party is taking place during a major football game and your venue doesn't offer the ability to view the game, "you will lose guests."

The Best Places to Propose in Louisiana

When writing down a checklist of everything you need for a smooth proposal, the right location is key. While some people love an audience, others would prefer a quiet, historic or meaningful spot to say, "yes." You know your partner best, so use your knowledge and friendship to figure out the most romantic way to propose at one of these top LA spots.

Louisiana's Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

If you're looking for a grand spot to wow your partner, head to Louisiana's Old State Capitol building in downtown Baton Rouge. Shaw emphasizes that it is "gorgeous, both inside and out," highlighting "the spiraling, grand staircase is fit for a Queen and the colorful stained-glass windows offer a unique, vintage and picturesque environment." If the temperatures are cooperating outside, oak trees provide quite a bit of shade next to the building's stunning exterior. Shaw recommends heading to the Watermark Hotel afterward to celebrate with champagne.

City Park in New Orleans, Louisiana

One of the most popular places to propose in New Orleans is City Park. Shaw particularly loves the different photography options here, as it has "a wide variety of scenery, including oak trees, old brick bridges, gardens and statues." The park is large, which "reduces the risk of crowds or photo-bombers while you're down on one knee." Lastly, she emphasizes the Botanical Gardens inside also offer "an artistic, quirky environment for extra-unique proposals."

Rip Van Winkle Gardens in New Iberia, Louisiana

From 350-year-old oak trees to luscious waterside paths, the Rip Van Winkle Gardens in South Louisiana are certainly one of the best places to propose in Louisiana. Set on Jefferson Island, there are over 260 species of birds to watch as you stroll about, dine in the glassed-in porch cafe or stay in one of the three private cottages. For those supernatural seekers, many people believe these grounds carry the ghosts of former residents. It's important to know there is a $50 per hour fee for professional photography on the property.

Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

For many Louisiana couples, LSU and its sports hold a special place in their hearts and relationship. Shaw is no different and emphasizes that Tiger Stadium is a "go-to venue for proposals." She says the most "ideal spot outside of the stadium is directly in front of the upstairs entrance to the Pete Maravich Assembly Center (PMAC), which houses LSU basketball games. The view of the giant purple and gold LSU sign is sure to send chills up anyone's spine." But, Shaw also shared that "if you really want to wow them, a proposal inside the stadium (inside Death Valley!) will guarantee a 'yes!'" Getting inside is not simple, but hiring a proposal planner or photographer (such as Shaw) with connections goes a long way in making this dream come true.

Romantic Places to Propose in Louisiana

From sultry gardens to waterfront views, there are many romantic places to propose in New Orleans and Louisiana. We've collected some favorites that highlight the gorgeous architecture and natural beauty of this state.

Watermark Hotel in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

As a former office building and bank, the Watermark Hotel features rich history within its art-deco vibe. Shaw's favorite spot is the grand staircase, which gives a "beautiful, dramatic effect" to photos. Of course, you can celebrate a successful proposal with an overnight stay here to soak in the stunning Angela Gregory murals and Mississippi River views. This would be a fun spot to talk about the next steps after getting engaged.

New Orleans Steamboat Co. in New Orleans, Louisiana

How does a dinner jazz cruise sound to set the mood for a picture-perfect New Orleans proposal? Aboard the New Orleans Steamboat Co.'s Natchez boat, you can do that while taking in the sights and sounds of the river. Other times and events are available if a dinner jazz concert is not your style. To keep this cool concept going, book the same steamboat for a wedding to remember.

Burden Gardens in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Within Louisiana State University's Burden Museum & Gardens lies the LSU Rural Life Museum, the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens and Windrush Gardens, each a delightful spot to pop the question. This spot is Shaw's "first choice location for all wedding-related events, including the proposal." Highlights include "a wide variety of scenery, with flower gardens, unique statues and beautiful trails at every turn."

Ralph's on the Park in New Orleans, Louisiana

Ralph's on the Park's second-floor balcony overlooking City Park in the heart of NOLA oozes timeless elegance. The extensive farm-to-table menu incorporates global inspiration, ensuring every palette is delighted with true Louisiana cuisine. Afterward, enjoy a romantic stroll for photos on Langles Bridge or under the Anseman Oak in City Park just across the street.

Creative Places to Propose in Louisiana

While many of these places so far are quite popular among locals and travelers alike, sometimes you need something just a little different. Here are a few more creative spots to consider.

Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis King of France in New Orleans, Louisiana

It's no surprise that the French Quarter, with its iron balconies and colorful architecture, is known as one of the best places to propose in New Orleans. In particular, many couples love to pop the question in front of the gorgeous Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis King of France set on Jackson Square. This historic cathedral is one of the most famous in the nation and is a jaw-dropping backdrop for photos both inside and out. Shaw refers to the surrounding area of town as the "Charleston, South Carolina of Louisiana," with her favorite spots to take additional engagement photos being "Bourbon Street at St. Ann Street and Royal Street at St. Peter Street."

Virgin Hotels in New Orleans, Louisiana

We love a good rooftop venue, especially when it gives views of the surrounding city skyline. Nestled in the Warehouse District of NOLA, the Virgin Hotels New Orleans has just that. The roof has a pool, wrap-around lounge deck and VIP sofas to snuggle on after you hear "yes." While we highly recommend snagging a room at this gorgeous hotel, day passes are available if you would rather keep exploring the city. This is a spot where hiring a proposal planner to help you think big will go a long way.

Alexandria Museum of Art in Alexandria, Louisiana

Central Louisiana's Alexandria Museum of Art is a whimsical spot to propose, between its historic galleries, waterfront property and meaningful sculptures, including "Hurricane Strong," a piece created by Black artist Ky Beaux installed outside. After a proposal here, head to the historic Hotel Bentley for a meal and overnight stay to celebrate in true Louisiana style.

Audubon Tea Room in New Orleans, Louisiana

Shaw also recommends the Audubon Tea Room for the animal lovers among us. Located within the New Orleans Audubon Zoo, this spot has both indoor and outdoor areas to make it a comfortable spot to drop to one knee any time of year. As this space can be booked for private events, it's vital to plan ahead to ensure availability. If it's not available, the surrounding Audubon Zoo contains numerous other romantic spots to propose, like the Oak Grove, Odenheimer Sea Lion Pool or nearby Butterfly Pavilion along the Mississippi.