Popping the question is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. With only a few words, you ask another individual to commit themselves to you for the rest of their life—while you yourself promise to do the same. 

Such a romantic moment should take place in a romantic location, and Pittsburgh has plenty of spots to choose from.

Where to Propose in Pittsburgh

As you prepare to propose, consider using one of these locations as your backdrop:

1. Mount Washington

Mount Washington offers numerous romantic spots to ask for someone’s hand in marriage. That includes:

• The overlooks. The overlooks on the Mount are consistently ranked among the best urban vistas in the country, so you can’t go wrong on a sunny day or a clear night. 
• The inclines. Both the Duquesne Incline (on the northwest end of town) and the Monongahela Incline (the southeast end of town) offer stunning views of the city. 
• Incredible dining. Grandview Avenue is dotted with excellent restaurants that offer stunning views of Downtown while you eat, making them great locations to propose in Pittsburgh.

2. The Point at Point State Park

Known for its view of all three rivers, the fantastic fountain, and expansive lawn, Point State Park offers plenty of beautiful backgrounds for your proposal. 

Visit during the warmer months, and you can make sure that gorgeous fountain is in all of your celebration selfies !

3. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offer a spectacularly romantic setting all year long. Check the schedule ahead of time to see if there are any events during which you’d like to propose—or avoid.

4. Ohiopyle

Ohiopyle is 70 miles away from Downtown, but it’s worth the drive if you love nature. With miles of nature trails, a quaint town, and stunning waterfalls and rapids, Ohiopyle is one of the best rural spots you can choose in our region.

Bonus: Ohiopyle is a very quick drive from Fallingwater (the famous Frank Lloyd Wright house), which gives you an extra option for your proposal.

5. McConnells Mill State Park

A little closer than Ohiopyle, McConnells Mill State Park is about 40 miles north of Pittsburgh on Route 79. Once there, you’ll have an endless supply of picturesque waterfalls, covered bridges, and even an old mill to serve as the backdrop to your proposal.  

6. The Cathedral of Learning

With its beautiful Gothic architecture, the Cathedral of Learning is one of the most stunning locations on the University of Pittsburgh’s campus—and in Pittsburgh in general. 

7. The Carnegie Museum of Natural History/The Carnegie Museum of Art

These two museums offer multiple locations that are great for your proposal:

• The Grand Staircase
• The Carnegie Music Hall Foyer
• The Hall of Architecture
• The Hall of Sculpture

If you want to really impress your future spouse, create an entire experience. Talk to museum staff about setting up a bouquet of roses, book a photographer to capture the moment and consider having a live string ensemble provide a sentimental backdrop.

Take a look at how a string ensemble can really elevate a moment (especially when you’re surrounded by beautiful architecture):

8. The National Aviary

Like Phipps Conservatory, the National Aviary offers an up-close experience with gorgeous flowers, but it comes with a bonus: exotic birds, including the popular penguin exhibit.

9. North Park

For those that don’t want to make the trek to Moraine State Park or Ohiopyle, North Park is a close substitute. Consider visiting the ornate stone boathouse or gliding over the lake in a kayak to pop the question. 

10. A Romantic Restaurant

Pittsburgh is an excellent town for foodies. Mount Washington, Lawrenceville, the Cultural District, and East Liberty all offer incredible dining options for a romantic date with your beloved. Order a delicious entree, an extra glass of wine, then drop to one knee for the big question. 

What to Do After Your Pittsburgh Proposal

Once your darling becomes your fiancé, you’ll need to settle on a location for your big day. For help, check out our list of Pittsburgh’s best venues for wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions. 

And once you start planning your wedding, don’t forget about our helpful planning guides. These downloadable resources take the headache out of planning !