The Best Ways to Propose at Disney World
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If you're reading this, you've got a lot on your mind. Not only are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World, but you're also tasked with choosing a location with a mix of romance, beauty, and pixie dust for what'll likely be the most nerve-racking minute of your life.
The good news is that formulating the perfect Disney World proposal is easier than you may think. Obsessed with capturing the perfect shot of your impending marital bliss? Disney has PhotoPass photographers around the parks who, if you can quietly warn them to keep snapping, will be happy to help out. Still, consider calling Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings to get official help with your proposal and guarantee an on-site photographer. And hey, if you blow it, you can always schedule a proper photo shoot commemorating the event with photos so nice that they'll convince your social media followers you two are part-time models.
Here's what you need to know for a magical Disney proposal.
Related: More Disney vacation ideas
Disney Proposal Packages
Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons has a team that curates magical weddings, vow renewals, honeymoons, and, of course, engagements. Planning your Disney proposal — at Disney World, Disneyland, Aulani in Hawaii, or on a Disney cruise — with their help can take a lot of the stress off your shoulders and ensure it's a moment to remember forever. Enchanting Extras, including photography, signature dining experiences, gift baskets, and celebratory cakes, can make your proposal even more special. They can also help you figure out when and where to do it, but we've included some inspiration for a Disney World proposal below to get you started.
How to Propose at Disney World
At Cinderella Castle
Not only is the Magic Kingdom's emblem the most iconic place to seal the deal, but it's also the most memorable. Disney PhotoPass photographers are lined up throughout Main Street, U.S.A. all day long to snap pictures, but if you want fewer people in the background of your shot, time your proposal wisely. Aim to get there as early as you can, or propose moments before the afternoon parade, when the main walkway will be clear. (You're bound to get an audience that way, too.) Want all the magic of Disney with fewer looky-loos? Scope out Cinderella's Wishing Well to the right side of the castle, which is both tucked away from the main crowds and arguably more romantic.
During Fireworks
Walt Disney World has nightly fireworks shows at Magic Kingdom and Epcot. You'll want your timing to be on point, so study fan videos on YouTube to find a musical cue for when to drop to one knee. And if you don't want the story you tell your kids to involve being jammed in a crowd, nearby hotel beaches, especially at Polynesian Village Resort by Magic Kingdom and Beach Club and Yacht Club resorts by Epcot are less crowded choices. Even better? Pineapple Lanai and Beaches & Cream are close, perfect for a celebratory dessert.
On a Ride
Now, we'd never recommend pulling out a sparkling ring on something like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, but using an attraction's ride photos to propose with small paper signs is ideal if traveling with family or friends. Due to their seating arrangements, plunging drops, and camera placement, Splash Mountain in Magic Kingdom and Expedition Everest are two top choices for the clearest images and funniest memories. Request that your group sit in the front while boarding, and be sure the future spouses get a seat in the first row. This way, the soon-to-be fiancée will be floored when they check out their photo post-ride.
While Dining Together
Cinderella's Royal Table, the restaurant inside Magic Kingdom's castle, and Victoria & Albert's at the Grand Floridian are classic proposal options. If you're looking to make things more unique, opt for a window table at Sanaa, which puts you beside Animal Kingdom Lodge's zebra- and giraffe-packed savannah, or California Grill, which provides expansive views of Magic Kingdom and surrounding area from the 15th floor of Disney's Contemporary Resort.
Away From the Hustle and Bustle
Believe it or not, having a special proposal with just the two of you in one of the world's busiest places is possible. Book a horse-drawn carriage ride at Port Orleans Resort — Riverside for an intimate proposal, or take a walk on Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom. (Not many guests take the log raft over to the wooded expanse, all but guaranteeing you can find a quiet corner to pop the question.) Alternatively, head to the back of the Canada pavilion or hang in the left side of the Morocco pavilion to break away from the Epcot crowds.
By Splurging Big Time
Getting engaged will be one of the biggest moments of your life, so if you want to do it up, Disney offers plenty of options. Take a VIP tour, splurge on a fireworks dessert party, or go big and go home simultaneously by booking a Polynesian Village Resort bungalow. The accommodations cost a couple thousand per night, but with a private dunk pool and hammock chairs with views of Magic Kingdom, it's the ideal location for celebrating your first night together as future spouses.
