13 Free Elopement Locations in the U.S.

Bride and groom walking through Estes Park in Colorado, a free elopement location. — Courtesy of Visit Estes Park

Finding the perfect setting for your elopement can be a daunting task, especially when you're on a budget. However, the United States is home to many breathtaking locations that offer both natural beauty and a sense of intimacy, all without breaking the bank.

We hand-picked 13 beautiful (and free!) elopement locations across the U.S., where you can exchange your vows without worrying about finances. From picturesque gazebos to dreamy gardens and idyllic beaches, these hidden gems provide the ideal budget-friendly backdrop for your romantic celebration.

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Santa Barbara County Courthouse: California

An aerial view of the Santa Barbara Courthouse, surrounded by palm trees, mountains, and the city. — Photo by Blake Bronstad

The Santa Barbara County Courthouse stands as an iconic structure (home to where Kourtney Kardashian famously got hitched), possibly one of the most beautiful courthouses in the nation. Built in 1929, it holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places list and serves as a representation of Santa Barbara's captivating Spanish Revival style. This location is perfect for couples desiring the ambiance of a Mediterranean elopement. The Mural Room, adorned with meticulously hand-painted murals, encapsulates the rich history of Santa Barbara, influenced by the Chumash, Mexican, and Spanish cultures. Afterward the ceremony, couples can take photos in the Sunken Garden or head up to the Clock Tower for panoramic views of the city and a few romantic shots under the arches.

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Cliff Walk: Rhode Island

A view of the ocean from the Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island, a free elopement location. — pictus photography / Getty Images

Newport is home to several free elopement locations. Cliff Walk is Newport’s most iconic spot, with views of the Atlantic on one side and the Newport Mansions on the other. A stop along any point on this walk will guarantee a beautiful backdrop with a nice sea breeze for partners to celebrate their love. King Park’s gazebo is another choice, along with Colt State Park in Bristol, which has tons of spaces and views of Narragansett Bay, often referred to as the gem of the state parks system. The Colt State Park even has a "Chapel by the Sea," offering a perfect backdrop for a free intimate elopement.

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Arnold Arboretum: Massachusetts

A walking path covered by lush trees on a sunny day at The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University in Boston. — Danita Delimont / Getty Images

For couples looking to tie the knot free of charge in a classic New England setting, Arnold Arboretum, just minutes from downtown Boston and the Harvard campus is the perfect venue. Eloping here requires no permit, but you do have to let the park know where and when you plan to host the special moment in the Arbor. You’ll be surrounded by heart-shaped leaves, gardens, and trees galore.

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Rock Run Grist Mill: Maryland

A view of a waterfall and rushing water of the Susquehanna River at Rock Run Grist Mill in Maryland. — Photo by Sean Simmons

Rock Run Grist Mill in Harford is a stunning elopement spot for the outdoorsy couple looking to elope in a natural habitat, with the beautiful Susquehanna River running behind as a backdrop. A highlight of this spot is its accessibility without any admission fee, allowing couples to embrace the beauty of their surroundings freely. The charming panoramic views of the grist mill add a touch of rustic charm, enhancing the overall ambiance and creating an unforgettable elopement experience.

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Cypress Gardens: South Carolina

A view of trees and lily pads at Cypress Gardens in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. — Courtesy of South Carolina Tourism

Want to elope where the storied rowboat scene from The Notebook was filmed? Cypress Gardens in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, is a picturesque and serene setting that effortlessly blends natural beauty and enchanting charm. With its lush gardens, lakes, and stunning scenery, it provides a storybook backdrop for an intimate elopement experience.

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Sandia Mountains: New Mexico

A woman watching the sunset from the Sandia Mountains overlooking Albuquerque, New Mexico. — Courtesy of Visit Albuquerque

Elope in the enchanting Sandia Mountains in Albuquerque for a peaceful ceremony surrounded by towering green trees and sweeping views of peaks. With miles of trails to explore, couples are sure to find a private location within the park to exchange their vows underneath the vast blue sky. For an even more magnificent scene, plan to arrive just before sunset and take in the extraordinary pinks of a sunset in New Mexico.

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Fall Creek Falls State Park: Tennessee

Lush forests surrounding the rushing water of Fall Creek Falls in Spencer, Tennessee. — Courtesy of TN Vacation

Elope in front of a towering 256-foot-tall waterfall at Fall Creek Falls State Park in Spencer, Tennessee. The peaceful, romantic destination offers a variety of outdoor locations for every couple. The park's amphitheater offers stunning views of the waterfall and is easily accessible. Those looking for a short hike to a more intimate setting can elope at one of the park’s many secluded waterfalls, such as Rainbow Falls or Rockhouse Falls. For a truly unique elopement experience after dark, couples can exchange vows under the stars at one of the park's many camping areas.

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Grayton Beach State Park: Florida

The vivid blue ocean in front of Grayton Beach State Park in South Walton, Florida. — Courtesy of Visit South Walton

South Walton, Florida, boasts an impressive preservation effort, with over 40 percent of its land carefully conserved, including the untouched coastal wilderness found within its state parks, preserves, and forests. Among these natural gems, Grayton Beach State Park stands out as an exceptional setting. Spanning 2,228 acres, this nationally recognized nature sanctuary offers enchanting nature trails, abundant wildlife, and the sparkling Western Lake—a rare coastal dune lake spanning 100 acres.

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State Capitol Building: Nebraska

The State Capitol Building in Lincoln, Nebraska, during sunset. — Miriam Bade / Getty Images

The State Capitol Building in Lincoln is a beautiful and historic venue where visitors are welcome to discover local art spanning the history of the state of Nebraska. With a marble and gold leaf exterior, mosaic-tiled ceilings, and dramatic arched hallways, the capitol building boasts endless picture-perfect backdrops for elopement photos, one of the most popular being at the 400-foot high observation deck. Weddings are permitted for parties under 25 people with notice to the Office of the Capitol Commission.

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Houston Arboretum: Texas

Lush trees and marshlands in front of water at Houston Arboretum in Texas. — Photo by Houstonian Magazine

Houston, a vibrant city known for its culinary delights, cultural richness, and innovative spirit, surprisingly offers many noteworthy elopement locations. Amidst this urban landscape, the Houston Arboretum stands as a serene oasis, providing couples with a tranquil setting for their special moments. Featuring an urban nature sanctuary, the Arboretum boasts a variety of unique paths, charming bridges, scenic boardwalks, and meadows, creating a captivating backdrop for exchanging vows. Popular spots for saying "I do" include the ravine bridge, the wildflower garden, and the donor boardwalk.

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The Riverwalk: Wisconsin

Views of the Milwaukee skyline from the Riverwalk on a sunny day in Wisconsin. — Chris LaBasco / Getty Images

Set against the stunning downtown Milwaukee skyline, couples can exchange vows on the charming Riverwalk, making it an ideal location for elopements. With waterfront restaurants conveniently nearby, this spot not only serves as a picturesque ceremony venue but also offers an excellent setting for a post-wedding celebration. The combination of the cityscape, the tranquil river flowing alongside, and the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding waterfront make the Milwaukee Riverwalk a perfect choice for couples seeking both a memorable ceremony location and a delightful place to continue the festivities after tying the knot.

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Estes Park: Colorado

A bride and groom kissing among the trees in Estes Park during the fall. — Courtesy of Visit Estes Park

Because of Estes Park’s scenic beauty, small-town hospitality, and mountain location, couples deem it an ideal location to elope. Here, you can escape into Rocky Mountain National Park or other stunning locations nearby, turning any majestic cliff, pristine lake, or open valley into a romantic paradise. A shared hobby, such as horseback riding, biking, snowshoeing, boating, or hiking can also be incorporated into the ceremony.

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Pass-a-Grille Beach: Florida

Sunset over the beach and dunes at Pass-a-Grille Beach in Florida. — Courtesy of Visit St. Pete/Clearwater

As home to some of America's best beaches, why skip out on the opportunity to get married on the sand? In Pass-a-Grille Beach, part of St. Pete Beach, it is legal to host small elopement ceremonies without a permit. The sunsets shade the sky every night creating the most romantic and unforgettable experience for an intimate ceremony.

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