So, you’ve met the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. Congratulations! It’s an incredible feeling to know that you’ve found your forever. And whether you’re just starting to think about popping the question, or you’ve already bought the ring and you’re planning the little details, it’s good to have an idea of where you want to propose.
Getting engaged is a once-in-a-lifetime moment—to create a magical experience for your soon-to-be fianceé, it’s important to think about the atmosphere your chosen location will create. Luckily, we’re surrounded by beautiful locations in Austin, Texas so you have many different places to choose from. In this post, I’ll walk you through my favorite proposal spots in Austin (and as a proposal and wedding photographer, I’ve seen a lot!).
Sekrit Theater
1145 Perry Rd
For an intimate, incredibly romantic surprise, you can rent out the Sekrit Theater for your proposal. With its enchanting glass greenhouse and old world feel, you can create a magical moment that your fianceé will never forget. Decorate the space with rose petals, candles, and even set up a sweet table for two to enjoy a celebratory dinner together. This space is what you make it, and lends itself beautifully to a magazine-worthy proposal.
Chapel Dulcinea
16221 Crystal Hills Dr
This Austin location is a complete gem for a proposal. Chapel Dulcinea itself sits on the edge of a cliffside overlooking Texas Hill Country, so the views for both your proposal and the photos will be unmatched. The building has traditional architecture and features a neutral backdrop so you can make the space your own with unique touches your fianceé would love. The best part about this venue is that renting the chapel is free during the week, so if you’re planning a weekday proposal, you can save cost by choosing this spot without sacrificing the beauty of the location. Just make sure that you book your reservation well in advance so you get the time you want.
Lady Bird Boardwalk
1820 S. Lakeshore Blvd
When it comes to a proposal, the Lady Bird Boardwalk has a lot to offer. With modern, clean lines and a view of the water, surrounding trees, and Austin, Texas skyline, there’s not one bad place to pop the question. If you love Austin and you want a proposal that feels authentic to the city itself, I love this location. Since it is a very public spot, one of my favorite ways to make the proposal feel a little more special is to enlist family, friends, or your photographer to get there ahead of time and set up some cute decor. That way, passersby will know that the location you’ve chosen is reserved and your plans won’t be derailed by strangers strolling by.
Mount Bonnell
3800 Mt. Bonnell Rd
Are you an outdoorsy couple who loves to spend time in nature? If so, then Mount Bonnell might be the perfect place to propose. It’s a beloved sightseeing destination for having the best view of the city and surrounding areas. The photos of your proposal will be breathtaking, but one thing to keep in mind is its popularity. If you plan to pop the question here, you’ll need to plan accordingly and figure out the best days and times to use this location.
Retro Boat Rentals
74 Trinity St
There’s nothing like cruising around on the stunning waterways of Lady Bird Lake in a rare classic fiberglass boat from the late 1950s and early 1960s. Retro Boat Rentals allows you to take one of their beautifully maintained (and modern!) boats for a spin, and it’s one of the most unique places to propose in Austin, Texas. The boats are extremely quiet so you can still have a conversation and enjoy each other’s company while taking in the sights around you. If your soon-to-be fianceé loves to get out on the water, Retro Boat Rentals is the way to go.
Auditorium Shores
800 W. Riverside Dr
If you want your proposal to have a cool, downtown Austin, Texas vibe, Auditorium Shores might be the perfect place. It’s a popular site for outdoor concerts, festivals, and events in the city, and has one of the best views of the Austin skyline. There are a ton of beautiful high-rise buildings in the area right along the waterfront, so this location is peak Austin and one of my favorite spots.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd
If you want a proposal location that offers a variety of options to choose from, Zilker Botanical Garden might be the perfect fit. The garden features heritage live oak trees, streams, koi ponds, and manicured pathways to explore. There are so many great places to get down on one knee, so you can choose the area that feels like it honors your relationship the most. It’s a peaceful getaway within the Austin, Texas city limits, so you can get a relaxed feel in a convenient location. The Zilker Botanical Garden does require a $50 fee to take professional photos, so make sure to incorporate this into your proposal budget.
Laguna Gloria
3809 W 35th St
Are you searching for the perfect place to pop the question without the fear of crowds ruining your moment? Laguna Gloria is the place to be. It’s a semi-private location that’s not only romantic but feels very peaceful and relaxing. My choice for a proposal spot on the property is the Temple of Love. The string lights and greenery as you walk to the temple create a dreamy atmosphere, and after she says, “Yes,” there are many locations throughout the property where you can pose for photos.
Nido Restaurant
1211 W. Riverside Dr
Are you imagining getting down on one knee overlooking the city at sunset? A restaurant’s rooftop deck is a chic and modern proposal site to surprise the love of your life. I personally love Nido—a restaurant that’s part of The Loren at Lady Bird Lake. It’s upscale, glamorous, and offers impeccable service. This is the perfect place to propose if you want to get all dolled up and celebrate with a night on the town as you soak up your newfound fiancé status.
Pease Park Treehouse
1100 Kingsbury St
This location is one of the most unique proposal spots in all of Austin, Texas. The Pease Park Treehouse is truly one-of-a-kind. The treehouse is open to the public, so it’s important to become familiar with the location and traffic patterns that you’ll be dealing with. Or, if you want to go all out, the treehouse is available to reserve certain days out of the year. While it is quite pricey, an intentionally designed proposal with beautiful flowers or marquee letters in the treehouse would create gorgeous photos.
Are you looking for a completely private proposal? Consider renting an AirBnb in the area! And as a bonus, you can have a little getaway and spend time soaking up this milestone moment.
Are you interested in capturing your proposal? Learn more about my photography services.
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Looking for the best places to propose in San Antonio is a huge challenge. Well, you’re in luck! As a San Antonio wedding photographer, I am listing all of the best photo spots in San Antonio. This amazing city is full of history and stunning attractions, making for the perfect backdrop to your special moment. Get ready for an unforgettable proposal experience. Check out these top locations to pop the question in San Antonio and keep reading along for proposal ideas in San Antonio.
Where to Propose in San Antonio
- River Walk
The River Walk is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. This urban waterway is lined with restaurants, shops, and rich foliage, making it a perfect place for a romantic stroll and a surprise proposal.
Website: https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/
Address: San Antonio, TX 78205 (The Riverwalk spans several miles through downtown San Antonio)
2. Tower of the Americas
For a breathtaking view of the city, consider proposing at the Tower of the Americas. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, making it an ideal location to get down on one knee and propose.
Website: https://www.toweroftheamericas.com/
Address: 739 E Cesar E. Chavez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78205
3. Japanese Tea Garden
The Japanese Tea Garden is a peaceful spot that is perfect for a proposal. The garden features beautiful landscapes, water features, and calming bridges, making it a scenic location to start your forever.
Address: 3853 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
4. San Antonio Botanical Garden
The San Antonio Botanical Garden is a rich and tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. With colorful blooms, whimsical structures, and a peaceful pond, this location is perfect for a proposal surrounded by natural beauty.
Website: https://www.sabot.org/
Address: 555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209
5. Hays Street Bridge
Elevate your proposal to new heights on the iconic Hays Street Bridge, with its breathtaking views of the city skyline and the charming East Side neighborhood.
Website: https://www.haysstreetbridge.com/
Address: 803 N Cherry St, San Antonio, TX 78202
6. San Fernando Cathedral
Propose in front of the historic San Fernando Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the state of Texas, with its stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows.
Website: https://sfcathedral.org/
Address: 115 W Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
7. McNay Art Museum
Make your proposal a masterpiece at the McNay Art Museum, surrounded by beautiful sculptures, rich gardens, and the Spanish Colonial Revival-style mansion that houses an impressive collection of art.
Website: https://www.mcnayart.org/
Address: 6000 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78209
8. Hotel Emma
Indulge in luxury and charm at Hotel Emma, a historic boutique hotel located in the Pearl District, where you can propose in an atmosphere of old-world elegance and enjoy the mesmerizing riverside views.
Website: https://www.thehotelemma.com/
Address: 136 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215
9. Confluence Park
Embrace the beauty of nature at Confluence Park, where the San Antonio River and San Pedro Creek meet, offering a unique and sustainable outdoor environment perfect for a proposal surrounded by native plants and innovative architecture.
Website: https://www.confluencepark.org/
Address: 310 W Mitchell St, San Antonio, TX 78204
10. San Antonio Museum of Art
Combine art and romance as you propose amidst the captivating exhibits and galleries of the San Antonio Museum of Art, showcasing diverse art collections from around the world within a stunning historic building.
Website: https://www.samuseum.org/
Address: 200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
11. Landa Library
Create an intimate and cozy proposal at Landa Library, nestled in the heart of the historic Monte Vista neighborhood, featuring a charming outdoor garden, a beautiful gazebo, and a calming atmosphere.
Website: https://www.mysapl.org/locations/landa
Address: 233 Bushnell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
San Antonio Proposal Ideas
If you’re drawing a blank on how to actually propose, don’t worry. You are not alone! This is a big deal and it’s important to get it right. With that said – here are a few San Antonio proposal ideas that work for just about anyone.
Set Up a Picnic
Create a romantic and intimate atmosphere by setting up a picnic in a picturesque location. Decorate with fairy lights, flowers, and a cozy blanket, and pack a delicious meal with your partner’s favorite treats.
Estimated cost: $50-$100.
Start planning at least 2 weeks in advance to scout for the perfect location and gather all the necessary supplies.
Take a Hike Together
Plan a surprise proposal during a scenic hike in a natural park or trail that holds significance for you as a couple. Find a beautiful lookout point along the hike, get down on one knee, and pop the question surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Estimated cost: Free (unless there are park entrance fees).
Start planning a month in advance to research hiking routes, prepare any necessary permits, and ensure you have the appropriate gear.
Recreate Your First Date
Take a trip down memory lane and recreate the magic of your first date. Reserve the same restaurant or choose a similar activity or location, and surprise your partner with a heartfelt proposal during this nostalgic experience.
Estimated cost: Varies depending on the chosen activity or location.
Start planning at least 2-4 weeks in advance to make reservations and coordinate the details.
Make a Candlelit Path
Set the stage for a romantic proposal by creating a path illuminated with candles leading to a special spot, such as a beach, garden, or backyard. The soft glow of the candles will create a magical ambiance as you ask the question of a lifetime.
Estimated cost: $30-$50.
Start planning a week in advance to gather the candles, ensure proper lighting arrangements, and prepare the path.
Propose in a Park with Loved Ones at a Safe Distance Away
Organize a heartfelt proposal in a park or outdoor space where your loved ones can be present, while maintaining a safe distance. Arrange for them to be hidden or seated nearby as you pop the question, and celebrate your love together afterward.
Estimated cost: Free
Start planning at least 2-4 weeks in advance to coordinate with your loved ones, choose the park location, and ensure everyone’s availability.
Wine Tour
Plan a memorable proposal during a wine tour at a local vineyard or winery. Enjoy a romantic wine tasting experience and, at a carefully chosen moment, express your love and propose amidst the vineyards’ scenic beauty.
Estimated cost: $100-$200 (including wine tasting fees).
Start planning 2-3 months in advance to research and book the wine tour, and consider any additional elements you may want to incorporate, such as personalized wine labels or a private tasting session.
Ready to make your San Antonio proposal happen? Don’t forget the photos.
As a San Antonio Proposal Photographer, I would be thrilled to be a part of your journey and help you document your perfect proposal. From scouting the ideal location to discreetly capturing the surprise and joy on your partner’s face, my goal is to provide you with timeless photographs that you can cherish for a lifetime. Let’s work together to create a seamless and memorable experience as you embark on this new chapter.
Contact me today, and let’s start planning your picture-perfect proposal!
