
As a Philadelphia proposal photographer, I get asked often, “What are the best locations to get engaged in Philadelphia?”. Every couple has a different list of what makes an ideal proposal location. For some, having a private place to get down on one knee and propose is the most important thing, a non-negotiable, and at the top of the list. If this is you, then this post is for you. In this post, I will share:
When considering where to propose in Philadelphia, I always recommend you start by really considering what your soon-to-be fiancée would enjoy the most. Everybody is different. Some people love being in the midst of it all, and a proposal on the top of the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps is a dream come true; for others, the thought of being in public for a proposal moment would make them feel shy, and they would prefer it to be a private moment. Really take the time to consider what is best for your soon-to-be fiancé and then do that!
Here are a few private locations in Philadelphia to have your proposal. One thing to consider is that private locations will have a rental fee. These fees can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the location. Here are some of my favorite spots.
Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center is tucked away in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park, and you can rent this out after hours and have it all to yourselves! This beautifully manicured, magical gated garden offers a unique private space for just the two of you. It even includes a Kio pond and a sweet little wooden bridge that leads to a small island.
See more from this fall proposal and engagement session at Shofuso.
Location: Lansdowne Dr & Horticultural Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19131
Website: https:www.japanphilly.org
Phone Number: (215) 878-5097
Fees: One-hour rental period for up to 5 people with garden access only $350

There is something so special about being up high above the city and getting sweeping views. The Bok Building is a creative arts building in South Philadelphia and has a cool rooftop option that you can rent for a private proposal moment on the 7th-floor terrace! The Bok Building is a multi-use building that is home to many local Philadelphia makers and creatives. It also has the wonderfully delicious Italian Restaurant, Irwin’s Upstairs. In the warmer months, The Bok Bar is open to grab a rooftop drink.
Location: 1901 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19148
Website: www.buildingbok.com
Phone: (215) 419-5121
Here is a link to a Bok Building Rooftop Proposal with Philadelphia Skyline Views!

If you are looking to pull out all the stops and are going for a truly luxurious experience with unbeatable Philadelphia skyline views, then the rooftop Terrace at The W Hotel in Philadelphia is the place for your proposal. On the 49th floor of the W Hotel in Center City, you can rent this terrace. This view is stellar, and I don’t know a better place in the city to get this kind of city skyline view.
Have a peek at this epic proposal at the W Hotel Philadelphia.
Location: The W Hotel 1439 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Website: www.marriott.com
Phone Number: (215) 709-8000

Proposing in a public location always leaves room for the uncontrollable. You never know what might be happening, and you have to have a bit of flexibility and a go-with-the-flow attitude if you choose a public location. If you don’t want to rent out a private space for your proposal, but you are looking for something a little bit on the quieter side, here are a few options to consider.
This residential street, walking distance from Rittenhouse Square Park, is a popular place for photos because of the narrow streets and the twinkle lights that are wrapped around the trees. There is no street parking on Addison Street, which adds to the appeal and makes it a nice place for photos. Because it is a residential area, there are generally fewer people around. It has a charming and historic feel and is still close to many restaurants to celebrate afterwards.
See a real proposal I photographed on Addison Street
Location: 1700 or 1800 Block of Addison St, Philadelphia, PA

The courtyard outside the Rodin Museum is one of my favorite places for a proposal. The gated outside space features a reflecting pool, greenery, lovely architecture, and even blooming trees in spring. It is tucked inconspicuously along the Parkway in Center City. You do need to purchase a photo permit to take photos here, but it is only $100. The courtyard is still open to the public and to museum-goers, but is typically a relatively low-key and quiet.
Location: 2151 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA
Website: www.philamuseum.org/rodin-museum
See a real Proposal at The Rodin Museum


This 50-acre historic public garden is located along the banks of the Schuylkill River in southwest Philadelphia. This garden is free of charge and open to visitors every day. The grounds have robust active vegetable gardens and flower gardens as well as historic stone buildings. This is an ideal location for a proposal for a nature-loving couple looking for a down-to-earth spot that is generally on the quieter side.
See a real Proposal at Bartram’s Garden
Website: www.bartramsgarden.org
Location: 5400 Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA

Didn’t find a location you love in this blog post?
For more Philadelphia proposal location ideas, check out this blog post: Best Locations for a Marriage Proposal in Philadelphia
Trying to put together the perfect Philadelphia proposal, but don’t know where to start?
For more information on how to plan your Philadelphia proposal, check out this blog post: Planning your Philadelphia Proposal: The Ultimate Guide
I would love to hear what you have in mind for the proposal you are planning in Philadelphia. I am happy to brainstorm with you and share details about my photography packages. Just fill out the inquiry form on the Heidi Roland Photography contact page. I look forward to hearing from you!