The Best Places to Propose in New Orleans (2023 Edition)
Top Ten Places to Get Engaged in New Orleans
So, you're thinking of popping the question in the Big Easy? You're come to the right place! As a native New Orleanian with a treasure trove of local knowledge (and more than just a couple surprise marriage proposals under my belt), I've got the inside scoop on where to make that magic moment unforgettable.
I’ve got a new perspective on some of the old spots since a lot of proposals have happened in the several years since my last top ten list. Spoiler alert: they didn’t all make the cut! Let’s dive in!
10. Pop the Question at the Peristyle in New Orleans City Park
An architectural gem tucked away in Mid City, the Peristyle is a vision of columns and arches, reflecting gracefully onto the bayou. This neo-classical wonder provides an ambiance of timeless elegance just mere steps from historic Cafe du Monde. It’s covered so it’s a safe bet for a proposal in rainy season, the acoustics are incredible for a musician to set the vibe, and it’s available to rent so you can be certain to have access to a spot that is often busy with locals and tourists alike. While it is a popular spot for weddings, I think it is an underutilized space for those wanting to pop the question and a brand new addition to my favorite proposal spots in New Orleans.
9. Propose inside of Historic Livaudais Hall
Constructed in 1875, Livaudais Hall served as a Catholic Church for around 130 years before being deconsecrated and sitting empty for more than a decade. It was restored and modernized in 2017 but has been a largely untapped treasure hidden in Central City. One only need to take a single step through the modified sanctuary’s massive entryway to be left breathless by its stunning interior. There’s even a choir loft which makes for a perfect hiding spot for a violinist to fill the room with a romantic rendition of “your song”.
8. Get Engaged in a Private Courtyard in the French Quarter
Hidden gems are scattered throughout the French Quarter, and private courtyards top the list. You’ll need a local to get you into one of these spots but, trust me, the effort will be worth it. Surrounded by vine-covered brick walls and often boasting antique fountains and tropical landscaping, these tranquil oases are only a little zhuzh away from the most perfect, intimate proposal. Think of the gentle whisper of cascading water drifting down the alleyway entrance as you lead the love of your life to a candlelit corner. You can even amp up the romance with a harpist or violinist and ice that cake with a carriage ride to and from your big moment.
7. Pop the Question under Anseman Oak in City Park
This is another new addition to the list! This majestic Oak is nestled off the beaten path within the vast expanse of New Orleans City Park. While it isn’t difficult to find, it’s just far enough away from the most active areas of the park to offer a little intimacy to the moment. It may not have branches that reach the ground like some other centuries-old Oaks around town, but it has a backdrop of the park’s bayou as well as a quaint little bridge if you angle it just right. Add a musician playing your song, a bottle of champagne, and a romantic picnic to really set the mood.
6. Propose in New Orleans Botanical Gardens in City Park
The New Orleans Botanical Gardens allow you to immerse yourself in a colorful tapestry of seasonal blooms and tropical beauties. Each pathway unveils a new picturesque scene making it feel like taking a stroll around a lush estate that tumbled right out of Bridgerton. With the Conservatory of the Two Sisters, The Lord and Taylor Rose Garden, The Japanese Garden, a plethora of lush flower beds, and numerous fountains and statues, you can take your pick of many stunning vignettes to stage the ultimate proposal for your plant loving lover. While its hours are limited and a permit is required to propose in the Botanical Gardens, the extra coordinating it takes to pop the question in this breathtaking park is well worth it.
5. Get Engaged in a Secret French Quarter Alleyway
Secreted away from the well-trodden paths of the French Quarter, there's a discreet alleyway that whispers tales of old New Orleans. With cobblestone underfoot and walls lined with large, green tropical plants, Dutch Alley feels like taking a step back in time. Not many tourists know about it. But those who do look forward to escaping the crowds in this well-kept secret. It’s the perfect proposal spot for someone who wants the historic New Orleans vibe without as many New Orleans onlookers.
4. Propose On Bourbon Street
No, not that part of Bourbon Street. Away from the rowdy crowds, the residential stretch of Bourbon Street offers a quiet backdrop of classic New Orleans architecture. Picture wrought iron balconies overhead, historic homes lining the street, and the soft glow of antique gas lanterns lighting your path. If you want to kick it up a notch, you can even scatter some rose petals and add a Traditional New Orleans Brass Band to give the moment even more New Orleans magic.
3. Pop the Question in City Park's Sculpture Garden
Art, nature, and romance converge at the Syndey and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden in New Orleans City Park. It has both the serene vibe of City Park as well as captivating touches of intrigue in its eclectic art collection. The sculptures provide a unique backdrop for not only the proposal itself but for engagement portraits as well. The “Love” sculpture is a particularly auspicious spot to get down on one knee and ask the question that will change your life forever.
2. Propose under Audubon Park's Tree of Life
Tucked in a quiet corner of Audubon Park lies the enchanting Tree of Life, a grand oak that has stood the test of time (close to 300 years, to be exact). With its roots delving deep into New Orleans’ soil and branches that seem to touch the skies, it has an unmistakable energy surrounding it. When standing under this tree it is easy to feel connected to not only nature but all of the souls that walked there before you. And the spanish moss takes on a golden glow at both sunrise and sunset making it a stunning backdrop for an Audubon Park proposal.
1. Get Engaged in Jackson Square
This iconic spot in the heart of the French Quarter holds steadfast at number one. With St. Louis Cathedral as your backdrop and the sound of street musicians playing, it’s the quintessential New Orleans proposal locale. If you’re looking for a location that is unmistakably New Orleans, this is your spot. Keep in mind that this location is also the most popular tourist destination in New Orleans so it is not the place to stage an intimate proposal. But if you like the idea of unsuspecting tourists cheering after the love of your life says “yes” then this is the location for you.
There are so many incredible places to propose in New Orleans that it is truly difficult to narrow it down to just ten! There is literally a perfect location for everyone looking to get engaged in the Crescent City. The key is to team up with a New Orleans Proposal Expert who will help you pick the perfect spot for you.
Don’t see a backdrop in this list that speaks to you? No worries! I can help guide you on your proposal planning journey to a location that resonates with your love story- and help you navigate all of the New Orleans eccentricities to make your surprise proposal the most magical moment.