Gazebo Designs

Marriage Proposal in New York for a first-time visitor - where is best to set the scene?

Hello, I have my mind set about a marriage proposal in New York when I head out next week (gf to follow later), but I have never been there before. My vision is a candlelit gazebo in central park that I can get a carriage to pull us up to - I realise however that this is unlikely (or is it possible to, say, hire out a bandstand there in an evening?) and hence I am thinking along the lines of a beautiful roof terrace (I'm planning on booking an especially nice hotel for the night so perhaps it could be a hotel with a roof terrace - I know of the gansevoort and peninsula having one - any others?). I would hope then to convince the manager to set up a corner with said candles/arabian-nights styled cushions. Any suggestions from locals/experienced travellers about how best the make this work?

Public Comments

1. my hubby thinks maybe central park zoo would be different because she would not have any idea that you are asking her that day. or a sky writer to say it for you as you are there . or maybe the circle line cruise around ny. they start at battery park and such she may like that too not too romantic but surprising also the empire building at the top floor . have a great life together.
2. sounds beautiful.. and yes all this is possible but start calling places now!
3. While the deck of the Staten Island Ferry is a public place, at night it does take on a certain "Love Boat " quality with couples standing on the deck embracing each other. The combination of a warm, sea breeze and looking at this magical , magnificent light bejeweled city at night seems to make people get romantic. Before you commit yourself to any particular "scene of the crime" take a ride on the Ferry late at night and you'll instantly see what I'm talking about.
4. Try the Cloisters--most beautiful spot in NYC, and the people working there, if apprised of your plans, could set up all sorts of interesting possibilities. There are concerts there on Sundays in the summer anyhow. I'm sure they would be delighted to arrange something spectacular. Located in far Upper Manhattan, overlooking the Hudson valley high atop a wooded hill.
5. Got engaged at bethesda fountain terrace in Central Park. hotel placed a lot of floating candles in the fountain and around terrace to light up the Terrace. Surprised her by walking there and ring was hidden in fountain moments before we arrived.
6. You could rent a paddleboat in Central Park and propose while on the water.