Ann Arbor Proposal Ideas & Best Places To Propose
Your heart is pounding, palms sweating, and you’re standing there anticipating the moment where you ask them to spend the rest of their life with you. Your proposal is one of the most important and unforgettable days of your lifetime, but it also can be one of the most stressful things to plan. It can be an intimidating task to figure out how to ask, and where to ask. To make your Ann Arbor proposal as smooth as possible, I’ve put together this list with some of my favorite proposal ideas and the best places to propose in Ann Arbor.
*Your proposal is one of the most important days of your lives. Relive that moment for years to come. Talk with an Ann Arbor proposal photographer.*
Ann Arbor Proposal Ideas
1. Spend a night out at the Ann Arbor Michigan Theater
Dating all the way back to 1928, the Michigan Theater has long been a staple in the Ann Arbor community. This four screen theater is an ideal spot for a romantic night out to enjoy an independent film, or one of the many stage shows that happen throughout the year. This historical place, coupled with an amazing show, is a great way to set the mood to pop the question.
2. Take a stroll through Downtown Ann Arbor
Another great way to pop the question is by taking a stroll through Downtown Ann Arbor. Right off of East Liberty street you will find Graffiti Alley. This colorful alley is a work of art filled with vibrant colors, images, and messages that are always changing and is a great place downtown to propose.
3. Visit one of Ann Arbor’s many historical museums
Whether you’re a fan of the arts, cars, farming, or just history in general, Ann Arbor is home to numerous museums to learn about the past and also start a brand new future. A few of the most renowned museums are University of Michigan’s Museum of Art and Museum of Natural History.
4. Take flight at the Yankee Air Museum
Just outside of Ann Arbor, in Belleville Michigan is the Yankee Air Museum. Here, you will find a unique piece of aviation history with the on-site museum and aircraft to experience. You can even take to the skies in one of five historic aircraft which offer flights for visitors from May through October.
5. Hit one of the many hiking trails in Ann Arbor
Although a major metropolitan area, Ann Arbor is also home to a rich outdoor environment with numerous hiking trails to explore. What better way to say I do than in the beautiful outdoors. Two of the most popular hiking trails in the area are the Waterloo Recreation Area and the Border to Border trail. Each trail is well maintained and each an ideal location for your Ann Arbor proposal.
Best Places to Propose in Ann Arbor
1. Nichols Arboretum
A project managed by both the University of Michigan and the city of Ann Arbor, the Nichols Arboretum, locally referred to as the Arb, is an expansive playground filled with gardens, trails, and beautiful scenery. The Arb is a great place to propose immersed in nature without going out of the city.
Address: 1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Website: https://mbgna.umich.edu/nichols-arboretum/
2. Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Just adjacent to the Arb, is the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Here, there are 11 different outdoor garden spaces to explore with beauty to find in each one. They also have an indoor conservatory making this a great proposal location year round.
Address: 1800 N Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Website: https://mbgna.umich.edu/matthaei-botanical-gardens/
3. Cherry Hill Nature Preserve
Just outside of the city limits of Ann Arbor is the Cherry Hill Nature Preserve. This preserve spans over 160 acres and features various typography including wetlands, woods, and meadows each offering an ideal proposal location.
Address: 6375 Cherry Hill Rd, Superior Charter Twp, MI 48198
Website: https://www.annarbor.org/listing/cherry-hill-nature-preserve/1640/
4. University of Michigan’s Law Quad
The University of Michigan is well known for its stunning and unique architecture as well as its scenic campus. The Law Quad brings together both of these elements making your proposal feel like you’re in another world.
Address: 625 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Website: https://michigan.law.umich.edu/about-michigan-law
5. Vinology Ann Arbor
Wine and dine your significant other in style at one of Ann Arbor’s most romantic restaurants, Vinology. Not only is this a restaurant though, it’s also a stunning wedding venue. This means that the in house event coordinator can help make your proposal one your partner will never forget.
Address: 110 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Website: https://vinologya2.com/
6. Gandy Dancer Ann Arbor
Where once sat one of Michigan’s most notorious train depots, now is home to some of the most elegant dining experiences in Ann Arbor. This restored train depot combines stunning cuisine with history in this
unique location.
Address: 401 Depot St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Website: https://www.gandydancerrestaurant.com/
7. Island Park Ann Arbor
Located smack dab in the middle of Lake Huron is Island Park Ann Arbor. This 5.6 acres park offers wide open green spaces, and riverfront access. One of the best places here for a proposal is at the Greek Revival Shelter, which is a unique shelter area with Greek inspired architectural features.
Address: 1420 Island Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Website:
https://www.a2gov.org/departments/parks-recreation/parks-places/Pages/Island.aspx
*Your proposal deserves to be documented. Preserve those memories for years to come. Let’s talk.*
Frequently Asked Questions About Ann Arbor Proposals
How do I choose a proposal location?
There is no one right place to propose. Your proposal location can be a meaningful one, like where you went on your first day. It can also be an adventurous location, like somewhere you’ve also talked about visiting. When choosing a location, it’s best to not overthink it and choose somewhere you both will feel comfortable and happy.
What month is best for engagement photos?
Generally speaking, you are going to get the most ideal weather between May and September in Ann Arbor. The winter months can be rather chilly, so you may want to avoid the outdoors during this time of year (unless you’re imagining a bundled up winter wonderland vibe).
Which leg do you get down on to propose?
For most people, you will want to propose with your left knee on the ground and your right foot planted. This has long been tradition to make it easier for right handed people to open the ring box with their right hand, so if you’re a lefty, you may want to switch this. Most importantly, remember not to overthink it and remember to cherish and enjoy the moment.
Ann Arbor Proposal Photographer
Since we’re on the topic of Ann Arbor proposals, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Kelsey, and I am a photographer based in Ann Arbor Michigan. I believe that capturing the most impactful photographs requires having a photographer you truly click with. During your proposal, you should feel free to be your true self, and soak in the moment to have the greatest impact.
*You should be free to be you and celebrate your day with a photographer that you click with. Let’s talk about your Ann Arbor Proposal.*
