The 15 Best Places to Propose in Pennsylvania

The Keystone State is a gem of the Northeast. With the Great Lakes to the west, numerous mountain ranges (including the Poconos and the Appalachian Mountains) and rolling farmlands throughout, its diverse scenery is the perfect backdrop for an epic proposal. With so many places to choose from, we narrowed down the best places to propose in Pennsylvania to help you out. (Plus, these may spark some wedding ideas, too.)

Besides its natural beauty, Pennsylvania is home to some of the most historically rich cities, such as Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. If it's a state that is a special place to you or your partner (especially if you call it home!), you may be looking for romantic places to propose in Pennsylvania. And trust us, there are plenty.

"Because of the many river views, walking trails, sporting events, gardens, cityscapes and open land, Pennsylvania offers couples the opportunity to customize their engagement," Kristin Phalines and Erin McConville of Kyle Michelle Weddings & Events, shares with The Knot. "From a private spot overlooking the Ben Franklin Bridge, to a perfect picnic at the park, you can even choose to ask your loved one in the middle of one of Pennsylvia's beloved sporting events. There is truly a spot for everyone."

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And Pennsylvania's largest city, Philadelphia, has so much to offer.

"We have so many options, from historic landmarks and world-renowned museums, to grand theaters and cultural venues to intimate BYOBs and quiet cobblestone streets, the possibilities are endless," adds Susan Norcross, owner and wedding director of The Styled Bride.

To help you narrow down where to get down on one knee, we've rounded up 15 of the best places to propose in Pennsylvania. (Already planning your Pennsylvania proposal? Find proposal photographers, proposal planners, proposal packages and more on The Knot Vendor Marketplace.)

In this article:

• The Best Time of The Year to Propose in Pennsylvania
• The Best Places to Propose in Pennsylvania
• Romantic Places to Propose in Pennsylvania

The Best Time of The Year to Propose in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a state that has all four seasons–winter, spring, summer and fall–so one factor to think about when you pop the question is the weather.

Of course, choosing a place that is meaningful to you and your partner is important. "Choose a location that has meaning to you and your partner, it could be a mountain in the Pocono's, a beautiful garden like Longwood Gardens or a funky city restaurant like Wilder," says Phalines. "Pennsylvania has so many areas that can be a perfect backdrop for an engagement that can be special and memorable."

But you should also consider when you and your partner want to have your wedding. "The time of year has so much to do with when you actually want to get married. It's something most people don't consider, but in fact it plays a major part," says Phalines. "For example, if you get engaged in the fall of 2024, that means you are looking to get married in the spring of 2025 if you want a prime date/location. Therefore, if you want a fall wedding, then you may have to wait two years to get your dream venue on your preferred date. The most sought after Pennsylvania venues book up about 18-24 months in advance."

The Best Places to Propose in Pennsylvania

Narrowing down where to propose can feel like an overwhelming task. Keep it simple and plan your proposal at one of these places in Pennsylvania.

Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens, located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, will provide a picturesque backdrop of flowers for your proposal. "Longwood Gardens is perfect for all seasons, it's beautiful in the gardens in Spring/Fall and so cool around Christmas time," says Phalines. "They have plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces. We love an engagement with an even more beautiful rain plan. It is just an incredibly beautiful location and you can take amazing photos that capture the day with a spectacular backdrop."

The W Philadelphia Rooftop

One of the best places to propose in Philadelphia is the W Philadelphia's rooftop. "If you are looking for more of a cityscape proposal, this is the best location," says Phalines. "You have the view of the city behind you and you can rent this space for a few hours, grab a drink and then head up to your proposal."

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

Love animals? Make a day date out of a fun visit to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, where you can pop the question in front of your fiance's favorite land (or sea) animals.

From sea lions, otters and rescued northern elephant seals, it's the perfect place to start your new chapter.

The College of Physicians

If you or your partner have chosen a career in the medical field, The College of Physicians in Philadelphia is the perfect place to propose. It pays homage to the rich history of medicine in America, and is considered "The Birthplace of American Medicine".

Glasbern

Located in Fogelsville, Pennsylvania, in the Lehigh Valley, Glasbern is a quaint inn that has scenic hiking trails all around it that is well-known for its incredible restaurant. Propose after dinner or while getting in some fresh air on the property.

National Constitution Center

History buffs can combine American history with romance by proposing at the National Constitution Center. Explore the museum and see the Constitution itself before getting down on one knee.

Antique Auto Museum

Automobile lovers (and collectors) will have a field day exploring the Antique Auto Museum together in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Once you've had your fill of checking out some of the oldest cars in the United States, you can pop the question and celebrate your future together.

Reading Terminal Market

Foodies in Philly know that Reading Terminal Market is home to some of the best food stands and vendors in the entire state. Eat (and drink) your way through before or after proposing to your partner.

Grandview Vineyard

Taste some grapes and take in the rolling hills before your proposal at Grandview Vineyard in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania. It's also a winery where you can enjoy an in-depth wine tasting together.

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden

Propose year-round at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, which has 460 acres of stunning land. Spend time with your partner in its endless gardens, paths and open meadows before your proposal.

Romantic Places to Propose in Pennsylvania

Choosing a spot that oozes romance isn't too difficult in a state like Pennsylvania. Creating a love-filled ambiance is easy at any of these locations:

Ricketts Glen State Park (underneath the waterfalls)

If you and your partner love to hike, the waterfalls at Ricketts Glen State Park have to be the epitome. There are 21 waterfalls to propose under. "This is such a cool area for a more mountain-esque type of proposal," says Phalines. "If you and your partner love hikes, picnics and beautiful waterfalls, this is the outdoorsy spot."

National Aviary

The National Aviary is one of the most romantic places to propose in Pennsylvania. Dedicated to protecting and harboring bird species, it is the largest aviary in the United States–a unique and romantic place to plan your proposal.

Cairnwood Estate

Cairnwood Estate feels like a French chateau, but is located in Bryn Athyn. With manicured gardens and lawns and stately architecture inspired by the Beaux Arts, it's an incredibly romantic setting to propose to your future fiance.

Fonthill Castle

If you and your partner love history and architecture, plan your proposal at Fonthill Castle. Built between 1908 and 1912 by Henry Chapman Mercer, it features incredible Moravian tiles and prints with rooms designed in Medieval, Gothic and Byzantine architecture.

John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove

Escape to one of the most pristine pastoral settings in Pennsylvania at the John James Audubon Center. Art lovers can soak up the prints and scenery that inspired famous naturalist and illustrator John James Audubon to create his iconic works.