(Kennedy Center photo by Dominic Bracco II/For The Post)
Best places for a memorable proposal
The Washington Post Staff | Updated 02/09/2012
The scene of the proposal should be the distillation of who you are as a couple. Love the outdoors? Head to your favorite park. Total Washingtonians? The monuments may be your answer. We can't know the perfect place for you (or spring for a ring) but we have a few ideas to get you started.
Lincoln Memorial
Washington, DC
After the tourists head back to their hotels -- or at dawn, long before they arrive -- there may be no place more serene or lovely in all of Washington than the majestic memorial. It's no wonder couples regularly plant themselves along the columns to await the sun (and regularly choose the place for very public proposals).
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Washington, DC
Before a performance or just because you're in the neighborhood, slip out from the Kennedy Center's Grand Foyer onto the terrace with a couple of glasses of wine and soak up the stellar view of the Potomac River. On Independence Day, smart folk looking for a new view of the fireworks flock there, too -- prime time for a proposal.
Great Falls Park
McLean, VA
For outdoor lovers, few places are more beloved than Great Falls. Hikers might choose to head off on a trail, but for something that doesn't quite require roughing it, head to the Virginia side of the falls and look for a quiet overlook to make it official.
Washington National Cathedral - Bishop's Garden
Washington, DC
The Bishop's Garden at the National Cathedral was built to mimic the walled-off estates and grounds of medieval cathedrals, making its winding paths and rose garden a gorgeous setting for a spring picnic, or better, a ring.
St. Michael's
St. Michael's, MD
This Maryland shore town channels all the charm of Cape Cod; go when the weather is warm and springlike, check into the luxurious Tilghman Island Inn or Inn at Perry Cabin, take a skipjack tour and visit St. Michaels Winery (home of the "chocolate zin" wine). There's no doubt she (or he) will say yes.
U.S. National Arboretum
Washington, DC
Walking among the original 1828 Corinthian columns from the U.S. Capitol feels like touring Greek ruins, and there's plenty more at the Arboretum that makes it a perfect couples' getaway in the city: a koi pond and bonsai; damp mossy forest; and perfectly manicured lawns. In the spring, find a quiet, seemingly undiscovered corner of the park and break out the jewel box.
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