12 of the Best Places to Propose in Vermont for a Perfect Moment

Vermont is home to some stunning proposal spots through all seasons.
Hildene house in Manchester, Vermont
Photo: Jay Yuan | Shutterstock
Erin Celletti
by
Erin Celletti
Erin Celletti
Erin Celletti
The Knot Contributor
  • Erin is a freelance contributor to The Knot and loves creating lifestyle, travel, beauty, relationships and commerce content.
  • In addition to writing for The Knot, Erin contributes to a wide range of publications including The Everygirl, The Everymom, Scary Mommy, Romper, Bustle and Brides.
  • Erin lives just outside of New York City, has a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and two Master’s degrees in Education and Administ...
Updated Oct 06, 2024

With so many picturesque landscapes, charming villages and stunning natural beauty, you have your pick of the best places to propose in Vermont. Whether you're dreaming of a quiet moment in nature or a more lively, public display of affection, Vermont offers a variety of unforgettable settings to pop the question.

To help narrow down the search, we spoke with Lindsay Hackney, Vermont-based wedding and lifestyle photographer at Linds and Max for her expert intel on some romantic places in Vermont to propose. Once you've narrowed down the perfect spot for your proposal, check out The Knot Vendor Marketplace for extensive info and real reviews on the best proposal photographers, proposal planners and proposal packages.

Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, Vermont

Shelburne Farms in Vermont
Photo: vermontalm | Shutterstock

According to Hackney, Shelburne Farms is, "an incredibly beautiful location that would be perfect to pop the question. With it being so spread out and spacious there are so many private spots where you could have a quiet moment. Not to mention it's so beautiful for photos, with the water views, mountain views and fields for days." Once you've popped the question, celebrate in the Shelburne Farms Inn with a glass of champagne and start thinking about your next steps as an engaged couple.

Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, Vermont

For Burlington, VT, places to propose, Church Street Marketplace, "has a fun, energy-filled vibe and would be a great place to pop the question if you're looking for a lot of cheering and excitement after getting down on one knee," Hackney says. She adds that some other perks of the marketplace include, "that you'll most likely find some music close by and so many great spots to sit outside for a drink to celebrate."

Stowe Mountain Resort, Stowe, Vermont

Whether in winter with snow-covered peaks or in summer with its lush greenery, Stowe Mountain Resort offers a picturesque and adventurous backdrop for a proposal in Vermont. The resort is located near panoramic mountain views and gorgeous natural surroundings that change with the seasons. The resort offers a truly quintessential Vermont getaway experience.

Lake Willoughby, Westmore, Vermont

Hackney says, "Lake Willoughby is such a beautiful backdrop to pop the question! With the dramatic peaks right on the water and the mix of quiet, peaceful and private, this would be a great place to get engaged." Her all-time favorite part? The mountains. She explains, "It's so unique for a Vermont landscape. You could even hike to the top for even bigger views or go during peak foliage season."

Quechee Gorge, Quechee, Vermont

Quechee Gorge in Vermont
Photo: James Casil | Shutterstock

Known as "Vermont's Little Grand Canyon," Quechee Gorge offers dramatic views and a unique location for an adventurous Vermont proposal. At 165 feet deep, it's the deepest gorge in Vermont which makes it popular for tourists while offering hiking trails on both sides. It can also be easily viewed from the Route 4 bridge if hiking isn't your thing.

Woodstock Village, Woodstock, Vermont

Hackney calls Woodstock Village, "probably the most charming town in Vermont," adding, "you really get the essence of the cute little quaint New England town with cute shops and walking. It is by far my favorite town to visit during the holidays with the lights hanging over the street while the snow falls."

Smugglers' Notch, Jeffersonville, Vermont

The dramatic cliffs and winding roads of Smugglers' Notch create a breathtaking and intimate setting for a proposal amidst Vermont's incredible naturescapes. Home to Smuggler's Notch State Park and gorgeous lodging options, this winter vacation destination is a great option for the couple who loves winter activities.

Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, Manchester, Vermont

A historic estate with its beautiful gardens and mountain views, Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home offers a timeless and elegant backdrop for a proposal. Having once served as a summer home for Abraham Lincoln, the 412-acre estate has its stand-out Georgian revival mansion along with 14 other historic buildings.

Lake Champlain, Burlington, Vermont

When it comes to Lake Champlain in Burlington, Hackney says, "What better way to pop the question than on a boat?! There are so many cute little islands, rocky ledges and cliffs for a pretty backdrop. Not to mention you could have a really private moment and then go on a boat cruise after." For extra points, consider popping the question at sunset with the Adirondacks in the background.

Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe, Vermont

Trapp Family Lodge in Vermont
Photo: Wangkun Jia | Shutterstock

Hackney says, "With the big lower field overlooking the mountains and the beautiful garden with even more views towards Stowe, Trapp Family Lodge is an amazing place to get engaged." Inspired by the famed von Trapp family, the lodge has unique European charm and Hackney says, "If you buy a trail pass you can even find a private place on a trail among the birch trees or in a field; it's truly a dream of a spot."

Moss Glen Falls, Granville, Vermont

Moss Glen Falls in Granville is an enchanting waterfall nestled in the woods and is one of the best places to propose in Vermont for its serene and magical setting. Boasting extra beauty during the fall months, you can even hike a quarter of a mile up to the top of the falls—just prepare to get a bit wet.

Mad River Valley, Waitsfield, Vermont

With its rolling hills, covered bridges, and scenic vistas, Mad River Valley offers a quintessential Vermont setting for a picturesque and romantic proposal. Home to the Mad River Barn, the valley incorporates multiple towns and villages that the Mad River runs through, each with its own charm and stand-out views.

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