7 Romantic Places in Oregon for a Valentine's Day Proposal

Spots across the state to get engaged to your love.
Written by
Drew Dakessian

In Oregon, Valentine’s Day has always been red-letter. It was on this day 161 years ago our fair state joined the Union. This year, February 14 in Oregon could take on additional significance for you if you decide that’s the time and place you want to propose! Here are seven ideas for where, exactly, to pop the question this V-Day.   

Ashland Rotary Centennial Ice Rink  
Harness the inherent romance of the rink and surprise your sweetheart with a proposal on ice. The only downside of this particular spot: You probably won’t be able to get down on one knee—at least not on purpose! Rec skate hours are 6:30 – 10 p.m.; adult admission/skate rental costs $5.  


NSandel, Wikimedia Commons

Astoria Column  
Do you want the place you propose to be the height of romance? Consider the Astoria Column. The historical 164-step tower is open to the public until 6 o’clock, about 10 minutes before dusk on Feb. 14. If you propose just prior to closing time, you’re guaranteed a stunning backdrop.   

Chart House Portland 
Another further inland option is the Portland location of Chart House, known for its spectacular views. Every evening from Feb. 13 to 16, Chart House Portland is offering a three-course “sweetheart special menu” for $140 per couple. Take out YOUR sweetheart on Valentine’s Day and propose at dinner, surrounded by the Portland night sky. 

McMenamins Kennedy School 
You don’t have to break the bank to pop the question! On Feb. 14, from 7 to 10 p.m., the gymnasium at Kennedy School in Portland will serve as the site of a free Valentine’s-themed bashcomplete with an ’80s cover band. Why not take your significant other and say, “Will you marry me?” on the dance floor?! 


Themom51, Wikimedia Commons

Choshi Gardens, Mingus Park 
There are many astoundingly gorgeous daytime sites for proposals throughout the state as well. One of them is Mingus Park in Coos Bay. Charmingly quaint and undeniably picturesque, it’s home to a Japanese garden, Choshi Gardens, with an arched footbridge tailor-made for popping the question on a sunny winter afternoon.  

Salem’s Riverfront Carousel 
If you seek a venue for proposing that’s equal parts whimsical and unique, Salem’s Riverfront Carousel is for you. Colorful and full of vintage appeal, it’s a picture-perfect, Instagram-worthy place to pop the question any time between 10 in the morning and 7 at night, the carousel’s hours of operation this Valentine’s Day. 


Timberline Lodge

Timberline Lodge
No list of Oregon question-popping places would be complete without a nod to Timberline Lodge. It’s just about the coziest and most romantic spot imaginable. Ask that special someone for their hand on Feb. 14 as the two of you lounge inside by the fire after a day of frolicking on Mt. Hood.