1. The Tidal Basin
Surrounded by pink cherry blossoms, iconic monuments and the glittering Tidal Basin offers a beautiful place to pop that important question. Be forewarned, you might have an audience given the popularity of the place. Our recommendation is to go early in the morning to avoid tourists.
2. Bishop’s Garden at the National Cathedral
A quiet oasis right next to the National Cathedral, the Bishop’s Garden is a little known hideout and if you are looking for a more private but breathtaking place to propose, this is it!
3. Dumbarton Oaks
Dumbarton Oaks is a gorgeous historic estate that is now a public museum and garden in Georgetown. Find a quiet section of the garden to propose and then head down to a fancy restaurant on nearby M Street to celebrate.
4. Washington Harbor
In the heart of Georgetown, overlooking the Potomac River, the Washington Harbour is a gorgeous spot. If you choose to propose in the winter, you will be surrounded by twinkle lights and in the summer, picturesque fountains will add to your moment. Celebrate at one of the nearby restaurants afterwards!
5. Meridian Hill Park
A fantastic cascading waterfall, European-inspired fountains will give the impression that you are somewhere deep in the heart of Europe as opposed to the District. The enchanting details of this location make it incredibly memorable.
6. Kingman Island
Kingman Island is a remote and isolated part of DC that is ideal for private proposals surrounded by stunning nature.
7. POV
POV is the roof top restaurant of the W Hotel. Enjoy rooftop views of some of the most iconic Washington DC landmarks, making for a perfect backdrop for your proposal.
8. National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
The Sculpture Garden is an art lover’s dream and a unique place to propose! Find the Amor sculpture for an extra touch! Or head there in the winter months and propose on the outdoor skating rink.
9. The Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are lined with greenery and feature a lion-head fountain and is tucked away in Kalorama, making it extremely hidden and private, as well as, romantic.
10. Key Bridge
The Key Bridge at sunset (or sunrise!) offers 360 views of the Potomac River, Georgetown, DC, the Kennedy Center, the Washington Monument and Rosslyn.
11. Hillwood Estate
Hillwood Estate and Gardens, the former home of socialite Marjorie Merriweather Post has extensive gardens, including a spectacular Japanese-style garden that is quite romantic and peaceful.
12. National Arboretum
With over 400 acres to explore, the National Arboretum is full of stunning landscapes and gorgeous nature. You can even ask the question in front of the infamous Capital Columns
13. Spirit of Washington
Imagine cruising the Potomac, enjoying a whole new view of DC and asking the most important question of your life! You can even book a private cruise and enjoy a catered, private evening on board.
14. DC War Memorial
DC War Memorial gives you quiet, privacy and ideal location near the most well-known and historic monuments and memorials in DC. Inside the marble columns, tucked away near the Mall, you can enjoy a romantic moment.
16. Lincoln Memorial
One of the most photographed memorials in the area, the Lincoln makes a spectacular spot for a proposal. Our tip is go late at night to avoid the crowds and experience the exquisite beauty of the memorials and monuments lit up.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.