Elopements are gaining popularity among couples who want an intimate and personalized way to exchange vows. Keeping closeness and romance in mind, I have compiled a list of my favorite elopement locations in the US! With its diverse landscapes, iconic landmarks, and romantic charm, the United States offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations for couples looking to say “I do.” From the historic streets of New Orleans to the majestic beauty of Yosemite National Park, your perfect elopement destinations can truly be anywhere!
A Guide to My Top 15 Favorite Elopement Destinations
Eastern US Elopement Destinations
New Orleans
The sultry streets of New Orleans are steeped in romance and mystery, making it a dreamy destination for eloping couples. Imagine saying “I do” beneath the canopy of live oaks in City Park or exchanging vows in a historic courtyard in the French Quarter. Afterward, celebrate your union with a jazz serenade or a romantic carriage ride through the cobblestone streets. Be sure to check out this blog for more New Orleans elopement destinations!
Savannah and Tybee Island
Savannah’s old-world charm and Tybee Island’s pristine beaches offer the perfect blend of romance and relaxation for your elopement. Picture saying your vows under the moss-draped oaks of Forsyth Park or with your toes in the sand as the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean. With its antebellum architecture and coastal beauty, this Georgia gem is sure to steal your heart.
Charleston
Charleston is the epitome of romance with its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and southern charm. Exchange vows in a quaint courtyard or beneath the ancient oaks of Boone Hall Plantation, then stroll hand in hand along the Battery as the sun sets over the harbor. Charleston will sweep you off your feet with its timeless beauty and hospitality.
Asheville
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a vibrant city with a bohemian spirit, making it the perfect elopement destination for free-spirited couples. Exchange vows in a mountain meadow or beneath a waterfall in Pisgah National Forest, then explore the city’s eclectic art scene and craft breweries hand in hand. With its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Asheville is sure to steal your heart.
Western US Elopement Destinations
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a beautiful elopement destination if you’re looking for something reminiscent of a national park, but it doesn’t require typical permits. With its beautiful nature trails, canopies of trees, and waterways, there are many places to capture those wedding photos. Say your “I dos” amid the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains!
Las Vegas
Las Vegas is the place to be if you’re looking for a bit of excitement on your wedding day. Beyond the glitz and glamour of the Strip lies a landscape that’s as diverse as it is breathtaking. Picture yourself exchanging vows amidst the otherworldly rock formations of Red Rock Canyon or beneath the neon lights of the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign. Las Vegas provides a distinctive and unforgettable setting for your special day, whether you choose a quirky chapel ceremony or a romantic desert elopement.
Big Sur
Eloping at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers couples a breathtaking coastal setting along California’s iconic Big Sur coastline. With its rugged cliffs, towering redwoods, and panoramic ocean views, this scenic park is absolutely stunning at sunrise and sunset. It showcases the beauty of the Pacific coast. Couples can embrace this coastal gem’s salty seawater and sand for a truly unforgettable elopement experience.
Redwood National Park
Eloping at Redwood National Park offers couples a jaw-dropping experience surrounded by ancient giants. Towering redwoods create a crazy cool backdrop for exchanging vows under the tallest trees. With serene forests, picturesque trails, and secluded groves, Redwood National Park provides an unforgettable setting for couples seeking something a little more…grand!
Aspen
Nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a picture-perfect elopement destination for couples who love the great outdoors. Whether you’re saying “I do” atop a snow-covered peak or amidst a field of wildflowers in the summer, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery at every turn. Afterward, cozy up by the fire in a charming mountain lodge and toast to your new life together.
Oregon Coast
For couples who love the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest, the Oregon Coast offers a stunning backdrop for your elopement. From the windswept cliffs of Cape Kiwanda to the serene shores of Cannon Beach, you’ll find endless opportunities for romance and adventure along this scenic stretch of coastline. Pack a picnic and toast to your love as you watch the waves crash against the rocks.
Moab
For couples who crave adventure, Moab offers the perfect blend of breathtaking scenery and outdoor thrills. Say “I do” against the backdrop of towering red rock formations in Arches National Park, or exchange vows at sunset overlooking the Colorado River. Afterward, celebrate your love with a Jeep tour through the desert or a hike to a secluded canyon oasis. The town of Moab offers an abundance of exciting opportunities for adventure-seekers.
Sedona
Eloping in Sedona offers couples a magical and mystical experience. Say “I do” under the Southwest’s stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy. Sedona provides the perfect backdrop for intimate ceremonies with its awe-inspiring landscapes, towering rock formations, and serene desert vistas. Sedona promises an unforgettable elopement experience.
Yosemite National Park
Eloping in Yosemite offers couples a truly unforgettable experience inside some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. With towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine wilderness as your backdrop, exchanging vows in Yosemite promises a romantic and intimate celebration of love amidst nature’s grandeur. Whether atop Glacier Point or beside the tranquil waters of Mirror Lake, Yosemite elopements are truly magical.
Tropical US Elopement Destinations
Hawaii
For couples seeking a tropical paradise, Hawaii is the ultimate elopement destination. Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Maui’s gardens, Kauai’s cliffs, and Big Island’s black sand beaches. Exchange leis instead of rings and say “aloha” to a lifetime of love in this Pacific paradise.
Florida Keys
Eloping in the Florida Keys offers couples a backdrop of tropical paradise for their ceremony. With its turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and sandy beaches, the Keys provide a romantic setting for exchanging vows. Maybe you want a barefoot ceremony on a secluded beach, a sunset sailboat elopement, or a luxurious resort affair? Either way, the Florida Keys offer endless opportunities for a magical and unforgettable wedding experience.
I Hope You Enjoyed Finding Your Dream Elopement Destinations
Whether you’re seeking a romantic beach ceremony, a mountaintop exchange of vows, or an adventurous elopement in the great outdoors, the United States offers a diverse array of stunning elopement destinations for couples to celebrate their love in a truly unforgettable way. From the historic streets of Charleston to the majestic landscapes of Yosemite, each of these elopement destinations provides a unique setting for couples to begin their journey together!
As a wedding photographer, I have had the opportunity to travel all over to capture some stunning wedding portraits. If you’re searching for an elopement destination photographer, I would love to chat. Contact me to start the conversation!
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