GANTRY PLAZA, LONG ISLAND CITY IS THE PERFECT PLACE in nyc TO CAPTURE YOUR SURPRISE PROPOSAL with a view and privacy!
There’s something about a surprise proposal at Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City—it’s the blend of dramatic NYC skyline views and peaceful moments that aren’t obvious to most. Chris chose this spot for his secret proposal, and with the Empire State Building, 59th Street Bridge, and the United Nations in view, the setting couldn’t have been more iconic. But what made the moment even more special was how intimate it felt, despite being in one of the city’s most visible places.
The Proposal Story:
Chris planned everything carefully so that the proposal would feel genuine, heartfelt, and unforced. They arrived at Gantry shortly before sunset, with soft golden light stretching across the water and casting a glow on the cityscape behind them. As they walked along the waterfront promenade, Chris led his partner toward one of the piers overlooking the river. Surrounded by warm light and calm reflections, Chris knelt and asked the question—just the two of them (though with the city as their witness). The reaction, the surprise, the laughter, and tears—those emotional moments are what make photos like these timeless.
Why Gantry Plaza State Park is a Great Choice:
Skyline & Water Views: You get clear lines of the Midtown skyline—Empire State Building, bridges, waterfront—so many iconic NYC elements in one frame.
Golden Light Potential: Late afternoon into sunset gives dramatic soft lighting that flatters skin, buildings, and water.
Relatively Private Vibes: Even in popular times, LIC tends to be less crowded than Manhattan hotspots. Parts of the park feel secluded, giving couples room for genuine moments.
Great Variety: Gantry offers piers, benches, trees, and open sky—so you can switch spots easily for different looks (wide, medium, close-up) without moving far.
Tips for Planning a Secret Proposal Here:
Choose a time near golden hour (sunset) to get that beautiful warm light and avoid harsh midday shadows.
Visit midweek or just before the busiest evening hours to minimize crowd interference.
Consider outfit choices that work well with the colors and contrast of the skyline + sunset—solid colors, layers, etc.
Scout a few vantage points ahead of time (piers, benches, waterfront paths) so you can adjust if something doesn’t feel right.
Bring a photographer who knows the area, understands light changes by the water, and can help with discreet positioning so the surprise stays intact.
Chris’s secret proposal at Gantry Plaza is a reminder of how much power the right place + time + feeling has. Even in a city full of iconic spots, it’s the moments of genuine surprise, connection, and love that resonate forever.
If you’re thinking about planning your own secret proposal in NYC—LIC, Gantry, Central Park, or anywhere meaningful—Jonathan Heisler Photography is here to help you create and capture an unforgettable memory.
Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of Professional New York City photographers specializing in photographing private NYC proposals, as well as engagement sessions and weddings.