How to Plan a Dream Proposal in a Grand Rapids Downtown Igloo

Picture this: You’re sitting at a little picnic table covered in soft white faux fur, inside a clear dome lit with twinkle lights. Outside, the Grand River slides past quietly. Inside, it’s just the two of you (plus the occasional visit from your server), a Bluetooth speaker playing your song, and a bottle of chilled champagne.

Plan ahead—these igloos book fast, especially around holidays. Bonus points if you can snag a night when it’s snowing. Trust me, nothing beats the feeling of being inside your own life-size snow globe while asking one of the biggest questions of your life.

Tip: Shady days or evenings are your best bet—that clear dome heats up fast in the sun, and you don't want your magical moment turning into a sweaty one.

How to make it even more special: Start with a bottle of champagne (it just feels right) and a charcuterie board if you want something light before dinner.

Afterwards, you’ve got options: Stay cozy in your igloo and splurge on their French-inspired menu—the Caesar salad and oysters are a great start, and the ribeye for two is the move. Or, take the connected indoor walkway over to MDRD at the Amway Grand Plaza hotel for a romantic dinner high above the city lights—no need to step outside, even in the middle of a Michigan winter.

And if you want a few photos after the big "yes," you're already in the heart of downtown. The Grand River, the iconic Blue Bridge, and the LOVE statue at Rosa Parks Circle are all just a few steps away—easy backdrops if you brought a hidden photographer or just want a few selfies.

Final pro tip: Reservations aren’t optional—you need to book ahead. Especially in winter and early spring, the best times (evenings, weekends) fill up fast. Plan it right, and you’ll have a private, unforgettable setting that feels like it was built just for you.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Michigan page.