Photo: @meglaymanphotography
So you’re thinking about popping the question in New Orleans? YASS! From the museums and parks to the architecture, you couldn’t have picked a place with better bones! And, in today’s digital age, gone are the days of simply getting on one knee to pop the question. Couples are going all out on their proposals. And why not? It’s a moment that the two of you will remember for the rest of your lives, why not make it epic?! Here are our picks for the best spots in NOLA to pop the question, from the most Instagrammable to the most romantic…
Photo: @flytographer Jessica from New Orleans
New Orleans has its own architectural style that can’t be seen anywhere else in the world. Also, if you’ve been to NOLA then you know, the vibe on the streets just can’t be beat–jazz and the smell of fresh beignets and chicory coffee on the breeze and color, so much color! The best part about a proposal on the streets? No need for a photography permit! That means you can have a professional photographer there with you to capture every moment.
Lined with shady oak trees, the garden district of New Orleans is home to some of the city’s most historic mansions (some of which are museums or hotels that you can actually go inside).
The most famous square in New Orleans, Jackson Square is known for its manicured garden and unparalleled view of St. Louis Cathedral.
One of NOLA's most historic neighborhoods, the French Quarter is probably what comes to mind when you picture New Orleans. The streets here are always alive with the sound of live music, there are delicious New Orleans delicacies to be had on just about every corner and each building is more unique than the last. Here are some of our favorite streets: Royal, Chartres, and Ursulines.
Photo: Capture Studio Photography
NOLA also has some pretty unique rides that would make for a fun proposal. Here are a few of our favorites…
It doesn’t get more New Orleans than proposing on a Streetcar–whether you want an audience or decide to rent one out to have it all to yourselves.
These sentimental nods to a time gone by can be seen and heard in any of the city’s historic districts. There’s something so romantic about an old-school carriage ride, the perfect place to pop the question. While you can simply hail a carriage like you would a cab, we definitely recommend scheduling a pickup to ensure everything runs smoothly. Here is the company we recommend: Royal Carriages- Private Tour
Take your love to new heights (literally) on a helicopter tour of the city. Pop the question in the air or on the landing pad, either way, it makes for an awesome photo and an even more incredible memory.
Step aboard the last authentic steamboat on the Mississippi River, Steamboat NATCHEZ, and propose with the smooth sounds of live jazz as your soundtrack. Cruises include brunch, lunch, or dinner and make sure to make your reservation in advance because this iconic attraction books up fast!
Photo: @aprilandpaul
Speaking of heights, New Orleans hotels have a great rooftop scene. Here are some of our favorites…
Towering 34 stories above the city and situated inside the Four Seasons Hotel, Vue Orleans offers a one-of-a-kind 360 view of the city and surrounding areas. With both indoor and outdoor areas, it’s the perfect weather-friendly proposal venue, especially if you plan on traveling just for the occasion.
This chic rooftop bar is the place to see and be seen in NOLA. Lounge poolside or just soak in the vibes before it’s time to get down on one knee. And since the bar’s right there, they can have your bubbly chilled and waiting.
Named after Tennessee Williams' famous play, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, the Hot Tin Rooftop Bar at the Pontchartrain Hotel boasts one of the best views of downtown NOLA. Its moody vibe and craft cocktails will certainly set the mood for romance.
OTHER NOTEWORTHY ROOFTOPS:
Ogden Museum Rooftop, Rosie’s on the Roof at the Higgins Hotel
Photo: Hannah Pickle
If you want to surprise them, a museum is definitely the way to go. You can schedule your tour ahead of time so you can tell your photographer when to meet you there. Then, when they least expect it, there you are asking for their hand in a chic historic venue that looks like it’s been decorated just for the occasion.
Located in the French Quarter, this classic New Orleans home features an elaborate interior that definitely gives Bridgerton vibes and a manicured courtyard garden.
Surrounded by apothecary bottles, if your soon-to-be fiance(é) is more into NOLA for the dark academia scene, then it doesn’t get any better than this Pharmacy-turned museum!
One of the nation's top attractions, this museum is a great place to profess your love and loyalty, especially if one or both of you are in the military.
Photo: Dani Benton Photography
New Orleans is home to a ton of beautiful parks and natural reserves, each with unique landscapes that you can’t see anywhere else in the world. Whether you plan on popping the question on a walk or want to plan a picnic, it’s hard to beat the ambiance of Mother Nature. Keep in mind that most of the parks in New Orleans require photography permits, so if you want professional photos of your proposal it’s something that you’ll have to plan in advance.
Totaling 1,300 acres, this natural conservancy is one of the largest urban parks in the USA! Manicured gardens and wildflower patches mix with water features and ancient trees to create something that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale. The most popular spot for proposals in the park? Well, that would have to be the famous stone bridge!
If your favorite person is more into nature for the animals, then Audubon Park is the place to be. The nature sanctuary is home to a wide array of species native to New Orleans and the Zoo on-property is next level.
Looking for somewhere more edgy and modern? This industrial chic park on the Mississippi is a wide open space and home to the famed rusty rainbow bridge.
Watch the steamboat go by, take in the fresh breeze from the Mississippi River, or watch the sunset–there are so many ways to enjoy this lush park located just along the river bank.
Have you ever wanted to sleep in a church? This unique boutique hotel is actually a repurposed church and school dating back to 1860. The architecture is otherworldly and it’s located in the artsy Faubourg Marigny district, so there is plenty to do just steps from your door.
FUN FACT: This is where Anya Taylor Joy eloped.
This stunning and eclectic boutique hotel is located in the heart of New Orleans and was recently awarded the prestigious Michillien Guide Keys, so you know it's gonna be good!
With its trendy colors and bold patterns, the design for this hotel definitely gives Wes Anderson vibes. Plus, it’s definitely worth noting that there is great food on-site.
Crafted from a historic NOLA building, this dreamy boutique hotel is as Instagrammable as it is romantic. And, it's part of the Hyatt family in case you've got points!
Yes, we know that everyone has a phone in their pocket these days, but some things are best left to the professionals–like one of the most pivotal moments in your life. The great news is that most photographers offer proposal photography packages. Just reach out ahead of time and they can likely even help you with the plan and give you tips and tricks from a local angle. Here are a few that we recommend who specialize in proposals.
New Orleans is so excited to be part of your proposal that they want to help you plan it for FREE! Check out their wedding website here for more tips and free planning assistance.
Follow @visitneworleans for even more inspo for your big proposal.
We partnered with New Orleans & Company to make your NOLA proposal extra magical. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors!