Top 15 Places to Propose in Madison, Wisconsin

Proposal and Madison, Wisconsin man down on one knee with the ring, his fiancé holding a bouquet of roses at golden hour

Planning Your Proposal In Madison

So you’re ready to plan the perfect proposal in Madison, Wisconsin? If you and your partner have talked about it and are ready, you are in the right place.

From scenic waterfronts to historic landmarks, Madison offers a plethora of spots to ask the big question. 

As a photographer, I've captured countless proposals, engagements, and weddings in Madison. Here are my top 15 places to propose in Madison, each offering a stunning backdrop for your unforgettable moment.

The most important part of a proposal is making it special and unique to you and your partner! It seems simple, but there must be places in Madison and the surrounding area that are meaningful to you in some way. 

There are endless possibilities! This is all just to get some of your creativity activated so that you can plan the perfect proposal for you! If you need some help, reachout to me! I offer photography and videography to document your proposal perfectly! I have really fallen in love with the addition of a videographer for your proposal. It in turn really elevates the wedding film to start at the proposal and then move directly into your wedding day.

We will give you plenty of space to enjoy the moment. I think it is really easy to rush it. Just take your time with each other, and when the question is answered and you have had your moment to enjoy it. I’ll kind of move in and we can take some celebratory photos!

All of my proposal photo & video packages include help with the actual planning of your proposal in Madison. Or wherever you want to go! You don’t need to do this alone!

Proposal packages and information here and you can contact me to start planning your proposal here!

Engagement and proposal photos at Memorial union and Madison, Wisconsin couple standing on one of the docs on Lake Mendota looking back at the memorial union and Lakeshore

Here Are The Top 15 Places To Propose In Madison, Wisconsin

Walking out, holding hands on one of the docs at Memorial union onto Lake Mendota in Madison, Wisconsin

1. Memorial Union Terrace

With the iconic sunburst chairs overlooking Lake Mendota, the Memorial Union Terrace is a beloved spot in Madison, and a great backdrop for a proposal. 

The Union is a special place to all of my fellow Badgers, and a perfect place for a proposal! The architecture is beautiful. The vibe of a summer evening at the terrace is unmatched.  

Just at this one spot there are a ton of options for a location to propose; the docks, front entrance with the stairs and arches, out on the docks, on a sailboat looking back at the Memorial Union. A proposal out on one of the docks at sunset? An absolute dream.

Capture the magic of your proposal against the backdrop of shimmering waters and the vibrant energy of this bustling lakeside campus icon.

Embracing kissing during summer at Albert Gardens in Madison, Wisconsin

2. Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Immerse yourselves in the enchanting beauty of Olbrich Botanical Gardens, where lush landscapes and blooming flowers provide the perfect setting for a romantic proposal. Being at a place like Olbrich that is curated and just so breathtaking by itself makes the process of taking photos easy. Because everything looks beautiful. 

You do need a permit to take photos here, but that means there is overall less competition. After your beautiful proposal here we can stop for a pint at the Olbrich Beer Garden to celebrate!

From the tranquil Thai Pavilion to the fragrant Rose Garden, (under construction until further notice!)  Every corner offers a picturesque backdrop for your moment.

Couple steps of the Wisconsin state building their engagement photos at golden hour white dress and a navy blazer

3. State Capitol Building

For a proposal this is definitely a classic spot. But what is wrong with a guaranteed good background? 

Nothing. 

Inside and out the Wisconsin State Capitol building is one of the most beautiful in the country. It makes a stunning backdrop for a proposal inside and out. 

I love the streets like State Street of course but also MLK boulevard looking at the capitol. 

There are so many possibilities! A grand moment on top of the steps, a picnic on the lawn with the flowers around you. The possibilities are endless.

Couples sitting on a tree at picnic point in Madison, Wisconsin at fall, holding hands looking at each other

4. Picnic Point

Looking for more of a natural vibe? Escape to nature at Picnic Point, the peninsula into Lake Mendota. 

Here we have plenty of shoreline and trees to play with. There is something special about fall here too. All of the fall colors on the Madison skyline are stunning. 

Take a leisurely stroll along the wooded trails, find a secluded spot by the water's edge, and capture the beauty of your proposal against the backdrop of Madison's stunning lakeshore.

Couple embracing looking at each other during sunset, silhouetted against the sky behind them

5. Allen Centennial Gardens

Discover a hidden gem at Allen Centennial Gardens, nestled on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. It is a beautiful spot similar to Olbrich Gardens, but maybe a little less busy. 

With its charming pathways, colorful flower beds, and serene ponds, this little Madison oasis provides a picturesque setting for a heartfelt proposal.

My favorite part of the garden is the wooden structure with all of the vines all over it. A perfect scene for a proposal in Madison!

Proposal at Monona Terrace and Madison, Wisconsin, man holding the engagement ring in his hand his fiancé is reacting to his engagement. She's very surprised there's a fountain in the Wisconsin state Capitol building behind them in the background.

6. Monona Terrace

Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Monona and the downtown skyline from the stunning Monona Terrace! I love the rooftop terrace for all kinds of photos but it's a beautiful place for a proposal with some of the best views of the skyline in the city. 

The path that leads to the Monona Terrace from MLK Boulevard is my favorite view of the Capitol Building in the city.

Whether you propose on the rooftop terrace or by the lakeside promenade, the modern architecture and scenic vistas will create a memorable backdrop for your love story.

An interesting twist here would be a proposal on a boat from the lake with evening views of the skyline behind you!

Holding hands at each other at their wedding in Madison, Wisconsin at James Madison Park

7. James Madison Park

One of my favorite things about Madison is the amount of parks and green spaces. James Madison Park has great views of Lake Mendota at Sunset, and great proximity to the State Capitol Building and downtown for the best of all worlds.

Setting together holding hands during their engagement photos at Tenney Park in Madison, Wisconsin, white dress

8. Tenney Park

Not too far away from James Madison is Tenney Park. Tenny offers great views of sunsets on the lake from the area around the locks.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Tenney Park, where tranquil lagoons and picturesque bridges provide a romantic backdrop for your proposal. Capture the beauty of your love amidst the natural splendor of this beloved Madison park.

Couple Embrace smiling, looking at each other during golden hour in the university of Wisconsin arboretum

9. UW-Madison Arboretum

Embark on a romantic nature walk (you can tell it's a badger because of the way it is) through the UW-Madison Arboretum, where scenic trails, ponds, and just the vibe of nature create a peaceful setting for your proposal.

With its diverse landscapes and secluded spots, the arboretum offers endless opportunities for capturing your story.

Couple embracing, looking out over the water at Poland Park towards the Madison Wisconsin skyline Lake Mendota on a sunny day

10. Olin Park

Olin has some of the best sunset views of the Madison skyline and great more nature-y paths. I think my favorite time of year here is fall!

One thing I do love for any location around Madison is that nothing is too far apart. It is an easy hop skip and a jump from Olin to downtown for a completely different environment.

Couple standing together, embracing in the water of one of the lakes around Madison Wisconsin at Golden hour in summer

11. Lake Shore’s, Monona, Mendota and more

Whether you paddle out on a canoe or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, the tranquil waters and scenic vistas will set the stage for a beautiful proposal. There are too many options to name, but any of your favorite spots on the lake would be perfect.

The coolest photos are if you two are willing to take a dip! The reflections and feel of photos in the water are unmatched.

Champagne glasses with candles at Nino in Madison, Wisconsin, celebrating a proposal
Couple standing together on the Novo rooftop terrace looking at the Wisconsin state Capitol building

12. Literally Any Rooftop Restaurant

There are quite a few, but one of my favorites is Eno Vino. You can of course propose over dinner or something. But here is what I recommend and have done before:

The trick with any of these places. Is to find one that will let you take some photos before they actually open for dinner service. 

Lucille is an honorable mention here too! I love one table that is perfectly framed by the capitol on the second level of the restaurant. 

Looking at each other, leaning against the railing of the Wisconsin state Capitol building lots of architecture around

13. Wisconsin State Historical Society

Celebrate your love story amidst Wisconsin's rich history at the Wisconsin State Historical Society. Whether you propose in the grandeur of the Reading Room or amidst the historic exhibits, the timeless elegance of this landmark will add a touch of sophistication to your special moment.

Champagne, glasses, and engagement ring in front of a white engagement dress and a suit with direct flash

14. State Street

Discover a hidden gem of romance at the Gates of Heaven Synagogue, one of Madison's oldest and most iconic landmarks. With its beautiful architecture and scenic location in James Madison Park, this historic site provides a unique backdrop for your proposal photos.

Your favorite coffee shop

There are too many to name but you can’t go too wrong!

Favorite Bar

Maybe a little more of a wild card. But I’m just trying to be helpful. Whiskey Jacks? The Mason Lounge? Leopold's Book Bar? Lucille?

Couples standing on the rooftop of a parking garage in Madison Wisconsin at Sunset, embracing looking at each other

15. University of Wisconsin-Madison Campus

Celebrate your love story at the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, where historic buildings, lush green spaces, and vibrant energy combine to create a romantic atmosphere. From Bascom Hill to the Memorial Union Terrace, every corner offers a picturesque setting for your proposal photo shoot.

Reaction after a proposal in Madison Wisconsin she is jumping in the air, embracing him with a bouquet of roses at golden hour. The capital is behind them in Madison.

Are none of these getting your creativity flowing? Here are some more proposal location ideas around Madison!

Rent a cool old boat and go out on the lakes

This is a bucket list item of mine. I am dying for a couple to find someone who has one of those cool vintage wooden boats to ride out on the lakes and take some photos. I think this would give some incredible Italian Lake Como type of vibes.

Couple standing in the lake at Devils Lake during their engagement and proposal photos very warm image it's summertime lots of green and the trees

Devils Lake & Parfrey’s Glen

A little trek from Madison is a special place. Like any touristy place the best time to propose here is either sunrise or sunset. Avoiding peak family time is going to be key because both of these locations can be VERY busy.

Final Thoughts:

Whether you're drawn to the scenic beauty of Madison's lakeshores, the historic charm of its landmarks, or the serenity of its botanical gardens, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pop the question in this vibrant city. 

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