Best Places To Propose in Rhode Island

Castle Hill Inn, Newport: A Historic Hotel on the Cliff

Castle Hill Inn, Newport is a historic hotel located on a 40-acre estate overlooking Narragansett Bay. It is a member of Relais & Châteaux, a group of luxury hotels and restaurants, and is one of the best places to propose in Rhode Island.

The inn was built in 1879 by Edward Augustus Stokes, a wealthy businessman and philanthropist. Stokes commissioned the architect Stanford White to design the inn in the style of a French Renaissance chateau. The inn was originally called the Castle Hill Country House, but it was renamed the Castle Hill Inn in 1903.

The inn has 100 rooms and suites, all of which are decorated in a luxurious style. It has two restaurants, the Castle Hill Inn Restaurant and the Ocean Grill, as well as a spa, a fitness center, and a tennis court.

Castle Hill Inn is a popular destination for weddings and other special events. The inn has a private beach and a marina, and the lighthouse on the grounds is a popular spot for fishing and bird watching.

Castle Hill Lighthouse: A Historic Landmark on the Coast

The Castle Hill Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the grounds of the Castle Hill Inn. It was built in 1890 and is 100 feet tall. The lighthouse is a white octagonal tower with a lantern room and a red roof. It is automated and is owned and operated by the United States Coast Guard.

The lighthouse was built to guide ships into Newport Harbor, which is a popular destination for sailors and tourists. The lighthouse is also a popular tourist destination and is open to the public for tours.

Castle Hill Inn and the Castle Hill Lighthouse are two of the most popular tourist attractions in Newport, Rhode Island. The inn is a luxurious hotel with a stunning view of Narragansett Bay, and the lighthouse is a historic landmark that is open to the public for tours.

Make a dining reservation.

Goat Island Lighthouse: A Historic Beacon in Newport Harbor

Goat Island Lighthouse, located on Goat Island in Newport Harbor, Rhode Island, is a historic beacon that has guided ships into the harbor since 1842. It is also one of the best places to propose in the state.

The lighthouse is a white octagonal tower with a lantern room and a red roof. It is 35 feet tall and is made of granite. The lighthouse is automated and is owned and operated by the United States Coast Guard.

The lighthouse is a popular tourist destination and is open to the public for tours. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for stunning views of Newport Harbor and the surrounding area.

Here are some fun facts about Goat Island Lighthouse:

• It is named after Goat Island, which was named because early Newport residents pastured their goats there.
• It is the second lighthouse to be built on Goat Island. The first lighthouse was built in 1823, but it was destroyed by a storm in 1841.
• The lighthouse is automated and is owned and operated by the United States Coast Guard.
• It is a historic landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Make a dining reservation.

Note: Goat Island is private property: weddings and planned engagements organized by the hotel take place in front of the lighthouse. If your proposal clashes with a wedding, you cannot go to the lighthouse until the wedding ceremony is over. There are, however, other beautiful views of the bay and the Newport bridge on Goat Island.

Update: The Gurneys resort was sold in the summer of 2022, read more.

Pros

• Beautiful ocean side location with view of Newport Bridge
• Valet parking and self-parking
• Superb location for dinner/cocktails after the proposal
• Great reason to ask your partner to dress up (for the proposal)
• Great late afternoon/evening location (for light)

Cons

• When weddings take place: the lighthouse is out of bounds (see above)
• Can be very busy

Resources

• Google Map Link
• View Sample Goat House Lighthouse Surprise Proposal Photoshoots

Beavertail State Park: A Scenic Gem in Rhode Island

Beavertail State Park is a 153-acre public recreation area located at the southern tip of Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island. It is one of the best places to propose in the state.

The park’s main attraction is the active Beavertail Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships since 1856. During World War II, the park area was part of Fort Burnside, one of several coastal fortifications designed to protect Narragansett Bay.

Today, Beavertail State Park is a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, saltwater fishing, and sightseeing. The park’s scenic shoreline offers stunning views of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Here are some of the things you can do at Beavertail State Park:

• Hiking: The park has a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Some popular trails include the Outer Loop Trail, which offers stunning views of the coastline, and the Beavertail Trail, which leads to the Beavertail Lighthouse.
• Picnicking: The park has several picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal or snack with friends and family.
• Saltwater fishing: The park’s shoreline is a great place to fish for striped bass, bluefish, and other saltwater fish.
• Sightseeing: The park offers stunning views of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can also see the Beavertail Lighthouse and the ruins of Fort Burnside.

Beavertail State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and learn about Rhode Island’s history. The park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.

Cliff Walk, Newport: A Scenic Stroll Along the Coast

Cliff Walk, Newport is a 3.5-mile-long stone walkway that winds along the coast of Newport, Rhode Island. It is one of the best places to propose in the state.

The walk offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Newport Mansions. It is a popular tourist destination, but it is also a great place to get some exercise and fresh air.

The Cliff Walk was built in the 1870s and is made up of a series of stone paths that wind along the cliffs. The walk is relatively easy to navigate, but there are some sections that are steep and rocky.

The Cliff Walk is open year-round, but it is best to visit during the spring or fall when the weather is mild. The walk is also popular during the summer months, but it can be crowded and there is a parking fee.

Here are some of the things you can see and do along the Cliff Walk:

• Enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Newport Mansions.
• See some of Newport’s most famous landmarks, including the Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff.
• Get some exercise and fresh air.
• Learn about Newport’s history and architecture.
• Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
• Make memories that will last a lifetime.

Pros

• Beautiful ocean side location
• Famous Newport tourist spot
• Easy to pull off a surprise when visiting Newport
• Picturesque walk behind the Newport mansions
• Beautiful sunrises

Cons

• Parking can be problematic
• Busy with people all-year-around
• Not good for sunsets
• Little shade on hot days

Resources

• Cliff Walk Map
• View Sample Cliff Walk, Newport, Surprise Proposal Photoshoots

Rhode Island Vineyards: A Wine Lover’s Paradise

Rhode Island is home to over 20 vineyards, which produce a variety of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The state’s climate is ideal for growing grapes, and the vineyards are located in some of the most beautiful parts of Rhode Island.

Here are some of the most popular vineyards in Rhode Island:

• Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyards: This vineyard is located in Little Compton, Rhode Island, and is one of the oldest in the state. It produces a variety of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
• Greenvale Vineyards: This vineyard is located in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and is known for its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris.
• Diamond Hill Vineyards: This vineyard is located in Cumberland, Rhode Island, and is the largest vineyard in the state. It produces a variety of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
• Newport Vineyards: This vineyard is located in Middletown, Rhode Island, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. It offers wine tastings, tours, and events throughout the year.

Rhode Island vineyards are a great place to enjoy a glass of wine and relax in the beautiful scenery. Many of the vineyards offer tours and tastings, so you can learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the local wines.

Why propose at a Rhode Island vineyard?

Rhode Island vineyards offer a romantic and picturesque setting for a proposal.

In addition to the beautiful scenery, many Rhode Island vineyards also offer amenities that make them ideal for a proposal. For example, some vineyards have restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal with your partner before or after the proposal. Others have outdoor patios or decks where you can pop the question with the stunning scenery as your backdrop.

Rhode Island vineyards are a beautiful and romantic setting for a proposal. With their stunning scenery, delicious wines, and thoughtful amenities, Rhode Island vineyards offer everything you need for a perfect proposal.

Providence, RI is a beautiful and historic city with a lot to offer couples looking for a surprise proposal. Here are a few reasons why Providence is the perfect place to pop the question:

• There are plenty of romantic spots to choose from: From the city’s picturesque bridges to its charming cobblestone streets, Providence is full of romantic settings that are perfect for a proposal.
• The city has a rich history and culture: With its many museums, art galleries, and historic sites, Providence is a great place to celebrate your love for each other.
• The people are friendly and welcoming: Providence is a small city with a big heart. The locals are always happy to help out and make sure you have a great time.
• The food is delicious: Providence is home to some of the best restaurants in the country. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or casual fare, you’re sure to find something to your taste.
• There’s something for everyone: Whether you’re interested in art, history, music, or food, you’ll find something to enjoy in Providence.
• Some of the best places to propose in Rhode Island

If you’re looking for a place to propose that is both romantic and unique, Providence is the perfect choice. With its beautiful setting, rich history, and friendly people, Providence is the perfect place to start your happily ever after.

A favorite location for a proposal is the Van Leesten Memorial Bridge.It is a steel truss bridge that spans the Providence River in Providence, Rhode Island. The bridge was designed by Inform Studio and Buro Happold and opened in 2020. The bridge is 394 feet (120 meters) long and 12 feet (3.7 meters) wide. It is made of steel and wood and has a curved, stepped design. The bridge connects India Point Park on the east side of the river to the Innovation District on the west side.

The bridge is a popular spot for pedestrians, cyclists, and fishermen. It offers stunning views of the Providence River and the city skyline. The bridge is also a popular spot for weddings and other special events.

The Providence Pedestrian Bridge is a beautiful and unique addition to the city of Providence. It is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and take in the views of the city.

Pros

•  Diversity of locations for different photo styles

Cons

• It will be ‘peopley’  – it’s a city and we will have to deal with people moving in and out of our shots
• Difficult to isolate my couples from the crowds  – you may have people in the background (depending on location)
• Parking (depending on location)

Resources

• View Sample Surprise Proposal Photoshoots

Beach Proposal Ideas: where to start, Rhode Island is not called the Ocean State for no reason, it has 384 miles of coastline. There are approximately 40 beaches in Rhode Island, with each offering its own character providing some of the best places to propose in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island beaches that are perfect for a surprise proposal:

• Narragansett Town Beach: This popular beach is located in Narragansett and is known for its wide, sandy shores and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s also a great place to swim, sunbathe, and play beach volleyball.
• Scarborough Beach: This family-friendly beach is located in Narragansett and is known for its calm waters and soft sand. It’s also a great place to go for a walk or have a picnic.
• Westerly beaches: This area is home to many beautiful beaches, including Misquamicut State Beach, Watch Hill Beach, and Bay View Beach. The beaches in Westerly are known for their clear water, soft sand, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. They are also a great place to swim, sunbathe, surf, and fish.

When choosing a beach for a surprise proposal, it is important to consider the following factors:

• The time of year: If you are proposing during the summer months, you will want to choose a beach that is not too crowded.
• The weather: You will want to choose a beach that is not too windy or too hot.
• The tides: You will want to choose a beach that is not too low tide or too high tide.
• The scenery: You will want to choose a beach that has a beautiful view.
• The privacy: You will want to choose a beach that is relatively private so that you can have a moment to yourselves.

Pros

•  Picturesque
•  It’s the Ocean State

Cons

•  Can be windy
•  Can be very busy (all day in summer)
•  Difficult to isolate my couples
• Parking (depending on location)
•  Light direction can be challenging
•  Blowing sand and cameras don’t like each other

There are beaches that can avoid some of the cons, please call me to discuss.

Resources

•  Sample beach proposal photo shoots

Westerly, Rhode Island is a beautiful town with many romantic spots that would make for a perfect surprise proposal. Here are a few ideas:

• The Watch Hill Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. You could propose at the top of the lighthouse, or you could take a walk along the beach and propose at sunset.
• The Ocean House: This luxury resort is located on Watch Hill Point. You could propose on the resort’s private beach, or you could have dinner at one of the resort’s restaurants and propose afterwards.
• Misquamicut State Beach: This beautiful beach is located in Westerly. You could propose on the beach, or you could take a walk along the boardwalk and propose at sunset.

No matter where you choose to propose in Westerly, you’re sure to create a special and memorable moment. However, during he summer season parking and access can be problematic at some spots

Pros

•  Picturesque
•  Beautiful high-end hotels with waterfronts
•  Beautiful beaches
•  The hotels are a great cover for a proposal

Cons

•  Can be windy like all beachfront locations
•  Can be very busy
•  Difficult to isolate my couples
•  Parking for some areas can be very difficult during the summer
•  Blowing sand and cameras don’t like each other

Resources

•  Sample proposal photo shoots in Westerly

Surprise Proposal Photography on a Newport Harbor Cruise: Capture Your Unforgettable Moment

Imagine proposing to the love of your life on a romantic cruise around Newport Harbor, with stunning views of the mansions and the iconic Newport Bridge and lighthouses. And to make the moment even more special, you’ve hired professional photographer George Ross to capture every moment, from the proposal itself to your happy reaction.

Surprise proposal photography on a Newport Harbor cruise is a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate your love. Here are some of the benefits:

• A unique and unforgettable experience: A proposal on a cruise is sure to be a memory that you and your partner will cherish forever.
• Stunning scenery: With its beautiful harbor and iconic mansions, Newport Harbor is the perfect setting for a romantic proposal.
• Professional photography: George Ross is a skilled photographer who will capture every moment of your proposal, from the proposal itself to your happy reaction.
• A special way to celebrate your love: A proposal on a cruise is a truly special way to show your loved one how much you care.

If you’re considering proposing to your loved one, surprise proposal photography on a Newport Harbor cruise is a great option. Contact George today to learn more about this unique experience.

Here are some tips for planning your surprise proposal photography on a Newport Harbor cruise:

• Choose the right time of day: For the most romantic setting, consider proposing at sunset or dusk.
• Choose a secluded spot: You’ll want to have some privacy for your proposal, so choose a spot on the ship where you won’t be interrupted by other passengers.
• Be prepared for anything: No matter how much you plan, there’s always a chance that something unexpected will happen. Be prepared to go with the flow and enjoy the moment.

Most importantly, relax and enjoy this special moment with your partner. George will be there to capture all the memories, so you can focus on popping the question and celebrating your love.

Resources

•  Sample proposal cruise photoshoots

Brenton Point State Park is a public recreation area occupying 89 acres (36 ha) at the southwestern tip of Aquidneck Island in the town of Newport, Rhode Island. The state park offers wide vistas of the Atlantic Ocean where it meets Narragansett Bay. The park lies adjacent to the Newport Country Club, part of Newport’s Ocean Drive Historic District. It is managed by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Division of Parks and Recreation, and is overseen by the staff at nearby Fort Adams State Park.

History. Brenton Point bears the name of Governor William Brenton, an early settler who owned the land as a large farm in the 17th century. Brenton called the area “Hammersmith,” a name which survives in the name of Hammersmith Farm, an estate on the point later owned by the family of First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis. In 1776, during the American Revolution, a battery was set up on the southwest part of Brenton Point as a coastal defense. Between 1876 and 1883, lawyer and businessman Theodore M. Davis built a mansion known as “The Reefs” (later “The Bells”) on the property, where he lived until his death in 1915.

The park was established in 1974 and is open year-round. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, picnicking, fishing, and swimming. The park also has a playground and a visitor center.

The park is a popular destination for bird watching. Over 200 species of birds have been seen in the park, including ospreys, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons.

The park is also a popular destination for whale watching. Humpback whales, fin whales, and minke whales are often seen in the waters off the coast of Brenton Point.

Brenton Point State Park is a beautiful and historic park that offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.

Pros

•  Oceanside/picturesque
•  Grassy park
•  Parking is typically easy
•  Great place for a picnic
•  Easy access to rocky shore at Graves point

Cons

•  Can be windy

• Learn More About Brenton Point State Park
• View Sample Brenton Point (Graves Point) Surprise Proposal Photoshoot

• A sample fresh water pond proposal

Roger Williams Park is an elaborately landscaped 427-acre (173 ha) city park in Providence, Rhode Island and a historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is named after Roger Williams, the founder of the city of Providence and the primary founder of the state of Rhode Island.

The park contains seven lakes which comprise approximately 98 acres (40 ha), and it is located in the southernmost part of the city of Providence bordering the city of Cranston. It was designed by Horace Cleveland in 1878 and was constructed in the 1880s. Many of the roads, bridges, and sidewalks were built by the Works Progress Administration from 1935 to 1940. The National Trust for Historic Preservation called Roger Williams Park one of the finest urban parks in the US in their 2000 annual report.

The park is home to a variety of attractions, including:

• Roger Williams Park Zoo: This zoo is home to over 160 species of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and elephants.
• Museum of Natural History and Planetarium: This museum has exhibits on dinosaurs, animals, and space. It also has a planetarium where you can see shows about the stars and planets.
• Carousel Village: This village has a carousel, a playground, and a snack bar.
• Temple to Music: This outdoor amphitheater hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.
• Botanical Center: This center has gardens, a greenhouse, and a nature trail.
• Lake Mirror: This lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming.
• The Roger Williams Park Conservancy: This organization is dedicated to preserving and improving Roger Williams Park.

Roger Williams Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and have fun. The park is open year-round, and admission is free.

• Explore Roger Williams Park
• View Sample Roger Williams Park Engagement Photoshoot