Golden Hour Pier 25 Proposal

Pier 25 is one of those places that truly shines at golden hour. The light hits the Hudson River and the West side of Manhattan, the skyline starts to glow, and you can see the sun setting behind New Jersey while the towers of Lower Manhattan light up for the evening. For Will’s Proposal, everything came together perfectly. The couple arrived just as the sky turned into warm gold. With the One World Trade Center standing tall in the background and the water reflecting the last light of the day, Will got down on one knee.

The moment was quiet and simple—just the two of them with the sound of the river and people passing by.

After the proposal, we captured portraits along the waterfront, using the skyline and sunset as a backdrop. The timing couldn’t have been better and nor could have the weather for an early October night here in New York City.

Why Pier 25 Is Perfect for a NYC Proposal

Pier 25 offers one of the best unobstructed skyline views in Lower Manhattan. It’s a quieter alternative to nearby Battery Park or the High Line, with open waterfront space and incredible light during golden hour.

Couples can enjoy both the Manhattan skyline and the sunset behind New Jersey—a rare combination that gives photos depth and warmth. Whether it’s an intimate proposal or a planned celebration with friends afterward, Pier 25 delivers that timeless New York atmosphere without the crowds.

Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of  Professional New York City photographers specializing in photographing private NYC proposals, as well as engagement sessions and weddings. 

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Secret Sunset Proposal at Pier 25 — Hudson River Park, NYC

Finding the best spot to propose in New York City

When it comes to proposing in New York City, finding a location that offers both intimacy and breathtaking views can be a challenge. Pier 25 in Hudson River Park provides the perfect blend of both. With unobstructed views of the World Trade Center, Statue of Liberty, and the Jersey City skyline, it's an ideal spot for a surprise proposal.

Why Pier 25 is a Hidden Gem for Proposals

• Scenic Waterfront Views: The pier offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline, making it a picturesque setting for a proposal.

• Less Crowded: Compared to other popular spots like Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 25 tends to be less crowded, providing a more intimate atmosphere.

• Golden Hour Lighting: The pier's orientation allows for stunning sunset views, casting a warm golden glow that's perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Capturing the Moment

On a beautiful summer evening, I had the privilege of capturing a surprise proposal at Pier 25. The couple arrived under the guise of a casual evening stroll, unaware of the special moment that awaited. As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the river, the proposal took place. The backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and the soft evening light created a romantic and cinematic atmosphere.

After the proposal, we took advantage of the golden hour to capture candid moments and portraits, ensuring every emotion was beautifully documented.

Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of Professional New York City photographers specializing in photographing private NYC proposals, as well as engagement sessions and weddings.

Pier 25 Hudson River Park Marriage Proposal - Phil and Baylee

Proposing in New York City with a waterfront view

On any given summer or fall night one of the most perfect places to photograph a secret proposal in NYC is on Pier 25 on Lower Manhattan’s West Side. Along the Hudson River as the sun starts to set a warm light touches everything and everyone in its path to the horizon. On Pier 25, you’ll find unobstructed views of the World Trade Center, Statue of Liberty, and the Jersey City skyline as you watch the sun set.

Congrats, Phil and Baylee!

The plan. Every guy has to have a plan on how he is going to propose and how he will have it photographed. Phil planned to get drinks at Pier 25’s Grand Banks on the Hudson River, and then propose. Before Friday evening, we discussed the location where he’d pop the question, the pros/cons of each location, and variables. We decided to make a final game time decision that evening based on how busy the pier was. If the end of the pier was busy, we’d move the marriage proposal down the pier to here. If the end of the pier was not busy, Phil would propose just feet away from their table after paying the bill.

With Pier 25 being fairly empty for a beautiful mid-September evening (at sunset, nonetheless) we texted one another and confirmed he’d propose at the end of the pier.

Post proposal and candids, I congratulated NYC’s newest engaged couple, and then we did a mini-shoot.

Jonathan Heisler Photography is comprised of Professional New York City photographers specializing in photographing private NYC proposals, as well as engagement sessions and weddings.

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