10 Best Places to Propose in Illinois (2023)
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
THE BASICS --
Illinois is full of perfect places to propose. Whether you and the person you love are enthusiasts for beautiful mountains, lakes, parks, natural scenic beauty, or good food and wine, there’s a beautiful spot to create a lifetime of memories. This guide describes some of the best places in Illinois to ask that special person to marry you.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide we will explain the following:
- Romantic Locations in Illinois
- Chicago Riverwalk
- Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio - Oak Park
- Starved Rock State Park - Utica
- Beautiful Lakes
- Illinois Beach State Park - Zion
- Lake Geneva - Wisconsin
- Outdoor Locations to Propose in Illinois
- Anderson Japanese Garden - Rockford
- Gardens at Cantigny Park - Wheaton
- Morton Arboretum - Lisle
- Lincoln Park Zoo
- Nascar - Chicagoland Speedway
- Wineries
- Best Places to Propose in Illinois
Romantic Locations in Illinois
1. Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is a picturesque pathway along the Chicago River, featuring cafes, art installations, and river views. Find a quiet spot by the water to pop the question.
2. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio - Oak Park
Architecture enthusiasts may appreciate proposing near the historic Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, where you can explore the beautiful Prairie School architecture. A photographer could arrange to be on hand to discreetly capture the special “yes” moment.
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3. Starved Rock State Park - Utica
Located near Utica, Starved Rock State Park offers stunning canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The scenic beauty and natural serenity make it an ideal location for a proposal in the great outdoors.
Beautiful Lakes
3. Illinois Beach State Park - Zion
This state park along Lake Michigan offers a beautiful natural setting with sandy shores, dunes, and hiking trails. You can propose on the beach or along the scenic trails.
4. Lake Geneva - Wisconsin
Located just across the Illinois border in Wisconsin, Geneva Lake is known for its clear waters and charming lakeside communities. You can propose on a boat cruise, lakeside promenade, or one of the lake's scenic parks.
Outdoor Locations to Propose in Illinois
Illinois is full of romantic gardens, parks and wineries. These are some especially romantic locations for a proposal on a romantic walk, viewing lakes or enjoying a glass of wine or champagne in a secluded spot for the perfect proposal.
5. Anderson Japanese Garden - Rockford
This peaceful and meticulously maintained Japanese garden is a serene and picturesque setting for a proposal. It features lush greenery, koi-filled ponds, and traditional architecture.
6. Gardens at Cantigny Park - Wheaton
Cantigny Park's beautiful gardens, including the Rose Garden and Formal Gardens, provide a romantic and colorful backdrop for a proposal.
7. The Morton Arboretum - Lisle
With its picturesque tree-lined paths and serene lakes, the Morton Arboretum offers a peaceful and natural setting for a proposal, particularly during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
8. Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo offers charming gardens and animal exhibits. You can propose in one of the picturesque garden areas or near the historic Kovler Lion House.
9. Nascar - Chicagoland Speedway
Proposing at a NASCAR event in Illinois can be an exciting and unique way to pop the question, especially if you and your partner are fans of the sport. The Chicagoland Speedway, located in Joliet, Illinois, hosts NASCAR events, including the NASCAR Cup Series. You can plan your proposal during a race weekend, perhaps during a pre-race event, on the track, or in the infield.
10. Wineries
Proposing at a winery in Illinois can create a romantic and intimate atmosphere, surrounded by the beauty of vineyards and the charm of wine country. August Hill is known for its award-winning wines and sparkling wines. The outdoor patio offers picturesque views of the vineyards and Illinois River Valley, making it a lovely spot for a proposal. Lynfred Winery in Roselle is one of the oldest continually operating wineries in Illinois. The winery's historic and elegant ambiance, along with its lush garden, provides a romantic setting for a proposal.
Best Places to Propose in Illinois
While it can be tempting to get wrapped up in elaborate proposal plans, sometimes the very best way to ask the question is a classic, heartfelt, on-one-knee moment. Whatever you and your soon-to-be fiance or fiancee enjoy, Illinois has beautiful and memorable places to propose. Make one of these romantic locations your special place by proposing with the perfect vintage engagement ring.

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