Ready to Pop the Question? Top 25 Hotels for a ‘Historic’ Proposal

Historic hotels are perfect places for creating lifelong memories, making a visit to one an ideal location for a romantic proposal. You could say that every day is Valentine’s Day at a historic hotel. In fact, many of these romantic destinations have a special spot or package especially designed for proposals.

Here is a listing of the Top 25 Historic Hotels, as provided by Historic Hotels of America, that provide the perfect backdrop for your romantic proposal, from intimate to grand and opulent:

The Broadmoor (1918) Colorado Springs, Colorado

There are many locations at this historic resort that are great places for popping the question, but one of the most breathtaking is atop Cheyenne Mountain at Cloud Camp. At the flag post location there are 360-degree views from the plains to the mountains, making it a proposal that won’t be forgotten. In addition to the numerous places on the main resort that are fantastic for a proposal, there is no limit to what kind of custom chocolate amenity could be created on site at Café Julie’s Chocolate Kitchen. There have been many proposals featuring a custom created chocolate piece. The attention to detail and guest experience is what makes The Broadmoor so unique and a special place to get engaged.

Lodge at the Presidio (1896) San Francisco, California

Located in San Francisco’s national park, the Lodge at the Presidio offers various romantic places for someone to pop the big question. For a grand proposal, couples can head to the eight overlooks that have spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the bay, the ocean and the lush Presidio forest. To catch the sunset before going down on one knee, the national park offers amazing beaches that oversee the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. Couples will adore Lover’s Lane, an enchanting trail that was once traveled by soldiers to visit their loved ones. For a proposal within the property, The Lodge at the Presidio has a beautiful guestroom that features a unique vista of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, where couples can propose with the best scenery in the city. Couples can also head outside to the cozy fire pit with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the background, then celebrate with a glass of complimentary wine and a selection of delicious cheeses.

OHEKA CASTLE (1919) Huntington, New York

The European ambiance of the palatial French Chateau-style estate and the beautiful French-inspired formal gardens make OHEKA CASTLE one of the most beautiful and unique places for a couple to get engaged. The staff at this historic hotel are delighted to explore any unique requests to deliver the ring from simple to extravagant. The most lavish to date was a beautiful engagement whereby the groom-to-be reserved the formal gardens exclusively, hired a florist to create a gorgeous backdrop, and a videographer to capture the moment on video.

La Fonda (1922) Santa Fe, New Mexico

The city of Santa Fe has an atmosphere of history, romance and intrigue that just does not exist in many other places. La Fonda on the Plaza, sits at the center of this stage, on the historic Plaza, where weddings and engagements have taken place for centuries. There are many places at this historic hotel that are romantic. One of the most popular places with romantic ambiance is in the historic restaurant, next to the water fountain, under the large skylight and twinkling lights in the trees.

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa (1927) Sonoma, California

Sonoma Valley is the quintessential get-away and Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa has always been the first choice for romance in Northern California. Literally hundreds of couples have asked the big question at the iconic resort. This historic hotel is the ultimate destination for a romantic proposal, with some amazing amenities including co-ed geo-thermal spa, Michelin-rated dining, easy access to hundreds of world-class wineries and the romance-inspired Mission Suites. All of these make wonderful places to pop the question. Other popular engagements have included a private picnic in the vineyards, hot air balloons and engagements on horseback.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (1965) Kohala Coast, Hawaii

For more than 50 years, generations of travelers have reveled in the balmy tropical paradise that is Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Among those generations are many that were engaged, then honeymooned, and now bring their families to the iconic and timeless resort on the white sandy shores of Kauna’oa Bay on Hawaii Island. As couples become ever more creative when asking the pivotal “Will you marry me?” question, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel works hand-in-hand to ensure the moment is magical. The hotel’s Romantic Proposal Package is called Ho’okupu. In the Hawaiian language, ho’okupu refers to an expression of Aloha (greeting, love) and one’s desire to strengthen a relationship with another. The aptly named package comes inclusive of romantic location of choice to set the stage for the important point in time. Options include a beautiful Vista Deck overlooking the tranquil bay and blue Pacific, the total privacy of the historic and original Third Hole tee box promontory above the ocean on Mauna Kea’s golf course, or nestled in the shaded green lawn alcove above Mauna Kea’s “Manta Point.”

HOTEL DU PONT (1913) Wilmington, Delaware

Legend has it that Prince Rainier of Monaco conducted the complex marriage negotiations for the hand of Grace Kelly at the HOTEL DU PONT in 1955. Miss Kelly said yes to Rainier, initiating her career-change from Oscar-winning actress to her most enduring role as Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco. Since then the hotel has partnered with countless couples on their engagements and takes pride in fulfilling romantic dreams from the lavish to the low-key for all couples. From a bespoke private dining experience in the recently renovated Green Room bar to an all-out over the top takeover of the legendary Gold Ballroom, there are a variety of options for these soon to be betrothed couples.

The Willard InterContinental (1818) Washington, DC

The setting, the ambiance, the storied past, the luxurious touches, amenities, and the staff that work with guests to ensure their time is as memorable as possible is what sets apart The Willard InterContinental. The most romantic place for someone to pop the big question is in the grand lobby of the hotel, particularly during the holiday season around the beautifully decorated Christmas tree. When it comes to memorable moments, whether a proposal, a wedding or an anniversary, the staff work incredibly hard to ensure no detail goes unnoticed. There are close to 30 staff members on the team who have been with the hotel since it reopened in 1986. This love and this dedication to the hotel translates into the dedicated, loving, genuine, and approachable service the hotel delivers to guests and what makes this hotel the romantic destination that it is for proposals.

Antrim 1844 (1884) Taneytown, Maryland

The 17,000-square-foot mansion, gardens and estate are spectacular and a draw for any couple who are interested in a getaway or romantic proposal. One of most romantic vignettes can be found within the beautiful drawing rooms with 14-foot ceilings accompanied by plaster medallions and crown molding, oversized Monticello windows, interior shutters and marble mantels carved by William Rinehart offset by rich heart pine floors. Through the drawn curtains, look out at the masterfully restored English tea rose gardens and stoically anchored twin fountains. This historic hotel boasts an award-winning wine cellar containing over 20,000 bottles representing over 2,700 renowned selections from famed wine regions around the world, making it a great place to toast to significant milestone or engagement. From its superb cuisine to upscale accommodations to the immersive wonder that is Antrim 1844, guests leave enthralled and enchanted by this venue.

Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa (1847) Point Clear, Alabama

Couples have been getting engaged at the Grand Hotel for more than 170 years. After a three-year transformation, the resort has even more places to ask that special question. Private beach and pool cabanas offer a quiet setting for proposals. Take a knee on the renovated pier and ask your beloved to get married as the sun sets and majestic pelicans fly above to salute the lovebirds. For nautical lovers, a sunset cruise aboard the schooner Joshua based at the Grand is an ideal way to start planning your life together.  Once engaged, stroll over to the Secret Garden where the Grand chefs have prepared a special meal of her favorites in alfresco dining for two.

Omni La Mansion del Rio, San Antonio (1852) San Antonio, Texas

Blending Spanish colonial architecture and European style, the four-diamond Omni La Mansion del Rio surrounds guests with the romance, grace and charm of a grand hacienda. Nestled along the historic River Walk among the banks of the Paseo del Rio, the hotel is a romantic, tranquil getaway. The Omni La Mansion del Rio’s courtyard transports guests away from the hustle and bustle of downtown San Antonio into an intimate and romantic garden setting. It is a popular place for couples to get engaged, get married or celebrate a special anniversary.

Mohonk Mountain House (1869) New Paltz, New York

Surrounded by 40,000 acres of pristine wilderness, set on a glacial lake, overlooking the majestic Catskill Mountains, this Victorian castle resort is the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the beauty and peace of nature. With an award-winning spa, gourmet cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and countless recreational offerings, Mohonk Mountain House is the perfect place to whisk away your sweetheart for a romantic getaway. Sky Top Tower is one of the most popular spots at Mohonk Mountain House for a proposal. At an elevation of 1,542 feet, Sky Top Tower overlooks the iconic resort and gives a sweeping view of the Shawangunk Ridge and the valley below. After climbing the 100 steps to the top, visitors love this picturesque, inspirational location for popping the question. It makes for great photos and even better memories.

Wentworth Mansion (1886) Charleston, South Carolina

Wentworth Mansion is inherently romantic and perfect for couples. The newly engaged couple can relax in the lap of luxury when they are guests at this historic mansion. There have been many repeat guests who, in years past, have gotten engaged here and return regularly for anniversaries. The grounds, restaurant, ambiance, history, neighborhood and guestrooms themselves make for a romantic experience unlike any other. The cupola on the mansion’s rooftop is the most popular place for a romantic proposal. It is the best view of the Holy City, offering a 360-degree view of Charleston.

Grand Hotel (1887) Mackinac Island, Michigan

Every season many couples and families choose Grand Hotel as their vacation destination. Generations of families come back every year and make it a special place for their children and grandchildren. When it comes time for special occasions such as engagements and weddings, they choose Grand Hotel to make their memories continue for their family. The remoteness of Mackinac Island and the charm and beauty of Grand Hotel make it a very romantic place to get engaged. The World’s Longest Porch overlooking the Straits of Mackinac provides the perfect backdrop for engagements, as well as the top of the hotel in the Cupola Bar at sunset.

Jekyll Island Club Resort (1887) Jekyll Island, Georgia

Built in the Queen Ann style, the Jekyll Island Club Resort resembles a castle surrounded by Southern charm. With sweeping Spanish moss and hundred years old live oaks, Jekyll Island is one of the most romantic spots in the South. The magic of the island will carry guests back in time to the grandeur of millionaires. From the top of the turret to quiet moments in Crane Garden, there are several places that are ideal for someone to get down on bended knee.

The Pfister (1893) Milwaukee, Wisconsin

For more than 125 years, The Pfister Hotel has been an icon of excellence and luxury in Milwaukee. The hotel has helped guests from all over the world celebrate countless engagements, weddings and anniversaries for decades. The timeless elegance and impeccable style of architecture and design is unlike any place in the city. At Blu, the hotel’s bar and lounge located on the 23rd floor, couples can take in panoramic views of the Milwaukee skyline and Lake Michigan. With its relaxing ambiance of low lighting and lounge music, this intimate space is the perfect place for a memorable, breathtaking proposal.

Pinehurst Resort (1896) Pinehurst, North Carolina

The Carolina Hotel dates back to New Year’s Eve in 1901, and is a National Historic Landmark. The Carolina has been the casually elegant social hub of Pinehurst for more than a century. The Holly Inn, a charming, intimate hotel is the centerpiece of the Village of Pinehurst, and dates back to New Year’s Eve in 1895. Also a National Historic Landmark, The Holly was Pinehurst’s first accommodation. There have been many engagements at both; popular locations for a romantic proposal at the Resort are in the gazebo, in front of the spa with multiple fountains in the background and in the Cupola at the Carolina Inn. Many couples take horse-drawn carriage rides through the quaint and historic village to pop the question, especially around the holidays when all the buildings are aglow with Christmas light.

Airlie (1899) Warrenton, Virginia

Originally built in 1899, Airlie has seen over a century’s worth of sunrises and sunsets. While the world continues to change, few places remain the same, untouched by the trials and tribulations of our planet. At Airlie you can truly experience the most important moment of your life at a location that sets itself apart from the rest – and feel that in this moment of question – the whole world stops along with you to await a response. Airlie has so many romantic places, from the 118-year old formal Boxwood gardens, to meandering pathways around the historic hotel offering beautiful vistas from intimate sitting areas.

Castle Hill Resort & Spa (1905) Cavendish, Vermont

The Castle is a popular place for proposals in the summer in the gardens, and, in the winter, in the library in front of the wood burning porcelain fireplace. Newly engaged couples can then celebrate with champagne in the library, dinner in the gourmet restaurant and then enjoy an overnight at the Castle.

The Otesaga Hotel and Cooper Inn (1909) Cooperstown, New York

Every historic hotel is unique in its offerings, location and architecture for unique engagements, but with Lake Otsego as its backdrop, The Otesaga provides the most majestic and enchanting location for an engagement. Known as “Glimmerglass” in James Fenimore Cooper’s Letherstocking Tales, Lake Otsego is rich in history as well as spectacular views. In addition, being the home of the nation’s pastime makes Cooperstown and The Otesaga a unique venue for a baseball-themed engagement site.

The Hermitage (1910) Nashville, Tennessee

Since 1910, The Hermitage Hotel has been the best choice for couples desiring an elegant Nashville experience. Warm surroundings, exemplary service, careful planning of the finer details, an award-winning culinary team and beautiful Nashville honeymoon suites are just a few of the five-star ingredients that make the experience at The Hermitage Hotel spectacular. There have been many engagements at this historic hotel over the years, and some of the most sought-after locations are at the top of the staircase leading into the historic lobby, next to a cozy fire, or in front of the Christmas Tree during the holidays. The Veranda, and Mezzanine area are also stunning space for engagements. Lastly, the restaurant Capitol Grille has also been a wonderful setting for many engagements over the years.

The American Club (1918) Kohler, Wisconsin

The American Club is set in a picturesque Village, often compared to a Norman Rockwell painting. A guest will not lack options for private, cozy, beautiful settings to ask such an important question. The biggest decision will be where to propose: in a private dining experience, a stunning courtyard, on a carriage ride throughout the quaint Village, on the golf course or dining at Whistling Straits – that overlooks gorgeous Lake Michigan. One of the most popular location is the Gazebo courtyard in The American Club. It’s picturesque and offers a stunning backdrop. The Alcove seats in the Immigrant Restaurant are also quite popular for engagements.

The Heathman Hotel (1927) Portland, Oregon

Nothing says Romance like the written word. The Heathman Hotel has a historic collection of books in a cozy library setting that is the perfect place to pop the question. This library is unique, with over 4,000 volumes of books, all signed by the author and most of them first editions. There is only one way an author can get a book in the collection: they must spend a night in the hotel. There have been many engagements that have taken place in this historic library often incorporating a couple’s favorite book or author. Or a private, candlelit dining experience in the library is another fun and unique proposal offering at The Heathman.

The Dunhill (1929) Charlotte, North Carolina

There are many locations in this uptown Charlotte hotel that are the perfect backdrop for a proposal. Being a smaller hotel there are a lot of intimate spots for a romantic retreat. A table for two at the award-winning Asbury restaurant is a popular engagement location, as is one of the Penthouse suites or on the Penthouse balcony overlooking uptown Charlotte’s skyline. Some have gone down on one knee in the bar area that flanks the lobby with friends and family looking on.

The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort (1935) St. Simmons Island, Georgia

The King and Prince has been a hidden gem on the Georgia coast for nearly a century, offering enduring Southern culture, unspoken elegance and authentic island ambience that reflects a timeless love affair. The quiet natural beauty, serenity, stately oaks and island atmosphere brings guests back time and again to create their own lifetime of traditions that begin with a proposal. An original 1930s hidden garden courtyard is one of the King and Prince’s secret spots. Picturesque lampposts and tall arched windows set the scene, dressed with seasonal flowers and a little table for two awaiting the time for a secret rendezvous.

For a complete listing of historic hotels that will make your engagement as unique and special as your love, visit here.

Photos courtesy TravMedia