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Best Places For A Fall Marriage Proposal In Minnesota

The day you propose marriage is an all-important time that you'll both remember for the rest of your lives. While we can't assist with what you'll say, we can help with the backdrop. For a gorgeous and romantic proposal during the autumn months, check out this list of local spots to get down on one knee. For more ideas, see our previous list of Best Places In Minnesota To Propose.

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
(credit: Donna Parks)

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
3675 Arboretum Drive
Chaska, MN 55318
(952) 443-1400
www.arboretum.umn.edu

There are over 1,100 acres of changing autumn landscape to serve as the perfect backdrop for your marriage proposal. Because the grounds of the arboretum are so vast, you are sure to find a secluded locale. Two of your many options include sitting under the red and orange leaves of the Sugar Maple trees for a romantic picnic or cozying up beside a serene pond. There are also walking trails throughout the arboretum so you can take a stroll hand-in-hand to discuss your future together.

11/16 Food & Drink - Thanksgiving - Nicollet Island Inn
(credit: nicolletislandinn.com)

Nicollet Island Inn
95 Merriam St.
Minneapolis, MN 55401
(612) 331-1800
www.nicolletislandinn.com

Whether you come here to stay overnight in one of the romantic rooms or are just looking for a restaurant to make the moment memorable, Nicollet Island Inn is a wonderful spot for marriage proposals because of its sophistication and location. Situated in the Mississippi River, the Inn's home on the island provides spectacular views of downtown Minneapolis. An easy stroll through the dazzling fall colors of Nicollet Island Park take you to the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam and the Stone Arch Bridge. Any of these areas would make for a magical proposal that takes advantage of autumn in the city.

High Falls
9393 E. Highway 61
Grand Portage, MN 55605
(218) 475-2360
www.dnr.state.mn.us

Why not start your engagement on the highest of high notes? High Falls of the Pigeon River lies right on the U.S. and Canadian Border in Grand Portage State Park. This 120-foot waterfall is the highest one in Minnesota. There is a half-mile trail to the falls with various overlooks and little spots to veer off for more privacy along peaceful streams. The seasonal colors and powerful falls will make for a breathtaking and picturesque proposal setting for you and your sweetie.

Related: Best Places To See Fall Colors In Minnesota

St. Croix River
St. Croix River in Stillwater, Minn. (credit: Laura Goetzke)

The Lower St. Croix River
Between Highway 70 & Stillwater
(715) 483-2274
www.nps.gov

Bordering Wisconsin, the St. Croix River runs past historic towns and natural scenery that is absolutely stunning in the autumn months. Rent a private boat or board one of the many tour boats in the area for a prime spot to view the changing leaves and a unique place to propose. Plenty of boating operators and rental companies are situated in the quaint towns of Taylor's Falls and Stillwater, which are also great places along this river to explore pre- or post-proposal. One must-see site on your romantic boat tour is St. Croix Dalles, a dynamic collection of gorges, cliffs and potholes.

Hermann Heights Monument
10 Monument St.
New Ulm, MN 56073
(507) 359-8344
www.ci.new-ulm.mn.us

New Ulm is a cute town with a strong German heritage. In the fall, it sits among a bright array of changing trees and the perfect spot to view the miles and miles of seasonal colors is from the Hermann Heights Monument. This monument, lovingly known by locals as Hermann the German, has a perfect vantage point, especially if you climb to the top. Those who are afraid of heights or don't have steady hands should not try fiddling with engagement rings up here, but for others, it will be a memorable locale for your special day.

Related: Best Spots For Fall Colors In The Iron Range

Cortney Mohnk is a freelance writer covering all things Minnesota. She is also a public relations and event planning professional. Her most important job is mother to her young daughter, who is her partner-in-crime when checking out the family entertainment scene in the Twin Cities. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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