The Oregonian reports that Oregon has been highlighted in a recent survey ranking the top 10 U.S. states for "picture-perfect" proposal spots. The survey, conducted by Nieuwe Casino, analyzed Instagram hashtags such as ‘#[location]engagement’, ‘#[location]proposal’, and ‘#[location]engaged’ across 781 locations worldwide to determine the most popular settings for engagement proposals.
With global travel rebounding in 2024 due to pent-up demand and relaxed travel restrictions, the study suggests that couples are increasingly choosing picturesque locations to pop the question and sharing these special moments on Instagram.
The analysis covered every European country, the three most populated cities in each U.S. state, various UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and destinations from TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice "Best of the Best Destinations," among others. The hashtag data was used to create a ranking of the most beautiful places for a romantic proposal.
Oregon made it to the list, ranking 10th among the most Instagrammable U.S. states for a proposal. The top states in the survey were Colorado, New York, Florida, Hawaii, and Arizona. Unfortunately, Oregon did not make the cut for the list of top romantic proposal locations worldwide, which was led by Paris, France; Bali, Indonesia; and Colorado.
If you're on the hunt for the best places to propose in Oregon, "The Knot" has you covered. Whether you're thinking of popping the question in Portland or one of the state's picturesque coastal towns, this guide will help you find the perfect spot.
The Knot spoke with Oregon-based proposal photographer Darla Maxine, owner of Darla Maxine Photography, to get her expert advice on the best times and locations for a proposal in Oregon. Maxine suggests that the ideal time for a proposal is between June and early October, when Oregon's natural beauty is at its peak. "Summers in Oregon are just stunning, from the vibrant flowers to the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets," says Maxine. "And the autumn colors throughout the state are truly magical."
However, Oregon's weather can be unpredictable, with a rainy season that typically starts in mid-October and lasts until mid-March. Maxine advises couples to plan accordingly: "Check the weather ahead of time, but if it calls for rain or wind—embrace it. Some of my favorite sessions have been on what many might call a 'less than ideal' day due to the weather."
When it comes to choosing the perfect proposal spot, Oregon offers a wealth of options, from enchanting gardens to majestic mountain resorts.
