Though undeniably iconic, proposing in front of Cinderella Castle is the obvious choice. If you’re searching for somewhere special to surprise your Disney-obsessed sweetheart, consider these equally romantic destinations.
1) The World Showcase after IllumiNations
During the day, Epcot’s tour of eleven countries tends to get quite crowded, but it’s a little known secret that you’ll essentially have the place to yourself after the 9 pm fireworks conclude. To accomplish this, book a dining reservation (Monsieur Paul and Tutto Italia are particularly romantic) for after 8 pm and leave the restaurant when crowds have dispersed — just confirm this doesn’t fall on a night with Extra Magic Hours, as there will still be plenty of people around until 11 pm! Depending on your route to the exit, you’ll have your pick of a variety of internationally-themed locales to stop and pop the question.
2) On an Attraction
If you’re ok with not being able to get down on one knee, you’ll certainly surprise your better half with this extraordinary proposal. Maybe you two have a favorite attraction you can never miss on a given park visit, or perhaps you just want to capture the moment with an on-ride photo; either way, it’s bound to be memorable! To keep the big moment intimate, try for a ride where you’ll have your own vehicle and won’t disturb other guests’ experience, like The Peoplemover or Peter Pan’s Flight.
3) Fire Rock Geyser at Wilderness Lodge
If you’re courting an outdoorsy type, this is the place to take them. Start the occasion off right by arriving by boat from Magic Kingdom to take in the views of Bay Lake, then wait for the hour to turn for a spouting water display sure to wow them — but hopefully not as much as their new diamond ring! Plus, once they’ve said “yes!” you can toast just steps away at Geyser Point Bar and Grill.
4) Along Crescent Lake
The centerpiece of the Epcot resort area, Crescent Lake offers plenty of romantic spots to ask for your honey’s hand. The BoardWalk’s Seabreeze Point is an expansive gazebo overlooking the water, wooden benches for two are perched atop the sand shores by the Beach Club, and there’s always the lighthouse at the end of the Yacht Club’s dock. If you’re not so sure which one is right for you, just take a romantic evening stroll and drop down when the mood feels right.
5) California Grill
Arguably one of the best restaurants on Disney property, this eatery located on top of the Contemporary Resort is always a good place to take someone you want to impress — even if you’re not ready to marry each other any time soon. If you are looking to put a ring on it, you should most definitely make your reservation to correspond with the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks display for the night. Stay in the restaurant where the lights are dimmed to make your declaration of love, or head out onto the wings for a proposal with a view they’ll never forget. Introverts beware! There will likely be many people witnessing your proposal in this setting, meaning you’re guaranteed to get some cheering.
Oh! And if all goes well, be sure to show off your newly-engaged status with buttons available for free at most gift shops and guest service locations.
Where do you think the most romantic spot on property to pop the question is?
Kate Joseph is a writer from Beverly, Massachusetts who earned her degree in journalism from Simmons College in 2015 and currently works as a copywriter in Boston. After her first trip to Walt Disney World at age three, she famously told her mother, "I don't like this world, I want to live in Disney World." So, she did! During college, she participated in the Disney College Program working as a committed cast member at Disney's Boardwalk Resort for one incredible semester. When she's not traveling to Disney destinations, she likes listening to podcasts, playing with her dog, and enjoying the outdoors.
