Planning to pop the question in Northern Michigan? You couldn’t have picked a more beautiful place. From the vineyards of Old Mission to the sweeping bluffs of Sleeping Bear Dunes, this guide covers the most scenic, romantic, and photo-worthy places to propose in Traverse City and the surrounding region.
We’ve helped dozens of couples plan and photograph proposals throughout Northern Michigan, and this guide is packed with locations we’ve personally scouted and experienced—so you can feel confident choosing the perfect spot.
Proposal Guide Overview
Sleeping Bear Dunes Proposal Spots
Some of the most stunning proposals we’ve photographed have been along the bluffs and beaches of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It’s about 30–45 minutes west of Traverse City and 100% worth the drive. This is one of the best places to propose in Traverse City for breathtaking views and up north vibes.
Empire Bluff Trail
A moderate 1.5-mile round trip hike with an incredible reward: sweeping views over Lake Michigan from the dune. Sunset here is magical and it is an easy place for photographers to "hide".
Sleeping Bear Point
This sandy dune trail leads you to wide open sandscapes and an insanely beautiful stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline. It feels wild, peaceful, and cinematic all at once.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
With arguably the most iconic viewpoint in the region, Stop #9 offers sweeping views over Lake Michigan and the dramatic dunes and bluffs. The scenery is jaw-dropping, big and instantly memorable. A great spot for a Northern Michigan proposal. The drive also offers other lovely spots, such as the covered bridge.
Yes, it rained—and it was magical. See the full rainy-day proposal here.
North Bar Beach
This quiet spot offers a stunning backdrop for a Northern Michigan proposal. It has that quintessential up north feel, with small rolling dunes, dune grass, and a long stretch of beautiful beach. It’s incredibly scenic and tends to be less crowded than other Sleeping Bear beaches, especially in the evening. Perfect for a peaceful, intimate proposal.
Romantic Winery & Lighthouse Proposals on Old Mission Peninsula
Just north of downtown Traverse City, Old Mission Peninsula is known for its scenic drives, wineries, and waterfront charm. Some of the most classic places to propose in Traverse City are tucked along the Old Mission Peninsula wine trail. These spots are perfect for quiet, intimate proposals with a view.
Mission Point Lighthouse
Nestled at the tip of the peninsula, this historic lighthouse is surrounded by forest trails and beachfront. It’s a lovely spot for a proposal, especially at sunset. Note: Late May to early June can bring small bugs to the beach here—just something to keep in mind when planning.
Brys Estate Winery
A proposal overlooking the vines? Yes, please. Brys Estate has one of the prettiest vineyard views on Old Mission with views in the distance of East Bay. They have a few great spots to propose all over the property including the Upper deck and The Secret Garden. Learn more at Brys Estate's official site.
Chateau Chantal Winery
Perched at the top of Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers sweeping views of the vineyards and West Bay—it's one of the most romantic proposal spots in the area. Visit Chateau Chantal’s official site.
Proposal tip: Many wineries in the Traverse City area are happy to help make your proposal extra special. Many offer proposal or picnic packages, and they can often reserve a more private area or help coordinate timing. Just contact them and ask about their proposal packages—they’re usually excited to be part of the moment!
Downtown Traverse City Proposal Ideas
If you want to stay close to downtown or looking for a more casual moment with the lake as your backdrop, these places to propose in Traverse City are easy to access and still incredibly romantic.
Volleyball Beach
Just west of The Open Space, this stretch of sand is a local favorite. It is actually surprisingly quiet in the evenings and is just a short walk from restaurants, perfect for a post-proposal dinner.
This Traverse City beach proposal was simple and beautiful— check out the full blog post here.
The Botanic Gardens at Historic Barns Park
Not far from downtown, these gardens are peaceful and bloom beautifully in spring and summer. It’s a sweet, low-key spot for your proposal in Traverse City.
When & How to Plan Your Proposal in Traverse City
A few helpful tips to consider when choosing between different places to propose in Traverse City.
Best seasons
We’re blessed with very distinct seasons here in Northern Michigan, and each one offers something unique. Fall colors are absolutely stunning, summer is warm and beautiful, winter is cozy and brings its own kind of magic, and spring is perfect with blooming trees and fewer crowds before the busy season hits. Spring, summer, and fall are the most popular times to propose.
Timing matters
Golden hour is ideal for lighting and atmosphere—but the timing really depends on where you’re planning to propose and how it will work seamlessly into your day. Most wineries close in the early evening, so those proposals tend to happen earlier in the day, usually around noon or early afternoon. Evenings are ideal for the soft lighting and golden hour is also surprisingly peaceful at many of the best proposal spots around Traverse City.
Be weather smart
It’s often breezier out by the lakeshore, and the dunes tend to be windier and cooler than in town. We’ll work with you if the weather shifts, but since proposals can’t always be rescheduled like other shoots, we do shoot in the rain—and some of our dreamiest proposals have happened in the rain!
Bugs
Some beaches (especially Mission Point Lighthouse) get those harmless little shoreline bugs in late May and early June. Not a dealbreaker—just something to plan for. Sometimes it’s better to go for those more elevated bluff spots that time of year.
Post-proposal ideas
Celebrate with a wine tasting, a picnic on the beach, or dinner downtown. You deserve a moment to soak it in.
Hiring a Proposal Photographer in Traverse City
Proposing is such a big and meaningful moment, and it goes by in a flash. Having a professional there to capture the emotions, the reaction, and the surprise ensures you’ll have that memory preserved forever.
We’ve photographed proposals all across Northern Michigan—from the tops of the bluffs to the beautiful winery vineyards, and in all kinds of lighting and weather. We know how to blend into the background, help with timing, and make sure everything goes off smoothly, so you can focus on the moment.
We’ve helped couples plan unforgettable moments at some of the most beautiful places to propose in Michigan, and we’d love to help you do the same.
Ready to start planning? Reach out here to book your Traverse City proposal photography.
Whether you’ve already scouted out a few places to propose in Traverse City, or want help choosing one, we’d love to help bring your vision to life.
