The best places to Elope in Las Vegas

The best places to elope in Las Vegas, are not all out on the strip. Who doesn’t love a little Viva Las Vegas in their wedding right? As a matter of fact, Las Vegas is frequently mentioned as one of the best places to elope simply because of how many places are there to do just that. In my opinion though, Las Vegas is best used as a hub to get to cinematic landscapes and cool museums for your elopement day. Its two hours away from two different national parks and 45 minutes from one of the most instagram landscapes in Nevada. Needless to say, you can have the whole experience of Las Vegas without having to actually have your ceremony in typical Las Vegas.

Off-strip Las Vegas places to elope: Take advantage of low cost flights + hotels!

The best way to use vegas in my opinion is as a hub. You fly in cheap, get a nice hotel at a good price and then drive the living hell out of a rental car to see whatever you want within 2-3 hours.

El Dorado Canyon Mine

If I was narrowing down to one single place to elope in Las Vegas, this would be it. I am a little obsessed. I was one of the first photographers to photograph the chapel which was built in 2020 during lockdowns. The owner built the chapel because he was bored, and I love that that is a thing. You don’t even have to use the chapel though, because this place is filled with old western buildings and vintage cars.

Fun fact: There is a half-blown-up plane on the property from a Kevin Costner movie. Honestly even if this isn’t your ceremony site, go because it’s awesome.

Planning Your Visit to El Dorado Canyon Mine:

• Permits for Photography: Personal photography is generally allowed without a permit, making it a fantastic location for amateur photographers and enthusiasts. For commercial or professional photography, including photoshoots and filming, prior permission and possibly a permit from the mine’s management are required.
• Best Time to Visit: The mine and its surroundings can be visited year-round, but the cooler months from October to April offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor sites and taking part in tours.
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • Guided tours of the Techatticup Mine are available and provide a deep dive into the area’s history and geology. Booking these tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • The mine is located in a remote area, so visitors should plan accordingly, bringing water, snacks, and wearing appropriate footwear for rough terrain.
  • The drive to El Dorado Canyon offers scenic views and several spots for photo ops, so allocating extra time for stops along the way can enhance the experience.

Address: 16880 NV-165, Searchlight, NV 89046

Want me to plan your elopement and photograph it? Click here.

Valley of Fire State Park

You may not know the name, but I can almost assure you that you have seen this place on Instagram. Travel photographers and tourists love sharing images from Rainbow Vista but this park has multiple places inside that will make your jaw drop. The best part? It’s a quick 45-minute drive from the Strip – provided Las Vegas construction isn’t too crazy.

Good to know: Valley of Fire State Park, established in 1935, is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, known for its stunning red sandstone formations that appear to be on fire when reflecting the sun’s rays.

• Permits for Portraits or a Wedding: A permit is required for commercial photography and wedding ceremonies. Applications should be submitted well in advance of the planned event or shoot.
• Best Time of Year to Visit: The best times to visit are during the cooler months, from October to April, to avoid the extreme summer heat.
• Other Planning Considerations: Ensure you have plenty of water, sunscreen, and protective clothing due to the park’s lack of shade and high temperatures. Check the park’s official website for current conditions and any restrictions.

Address: 29450 Valley of Fire Hwy, Overton, NV 89040

The Neon Sign Museum

The museum showcases incredible classic signs from the strip and allows you to get the grit and glam from old neon. This is one of those wedding options where people will ask how you got such cool photographs… Hint, You hired me and got the permit to do your ceremony there. Worth it. 🙂

Fun Fact: The Neon Museum in Las Vegas houses more than 200 historic neon signs from the 1930s onwards, preserving the city’s iconic visual history.

• Permits for Portraits or a Wedding: Special permits are required for professional photo shoots and weddings, and the museum offers various packages for these events.
• Best Time of Year to Visit: The museum can be visited year-round, but evening tours offer a chance to see some signs illuminated, providing a more authentic experience.
• Other Planning Considerations: Advance ticket purchases are highly recommended as tours can sell out quickly. Summer evenings are cooler for visits, but comfortable walking shoes are advised as tours involve walking on uneven surfaces.

Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam, completed in 1936, is a marvel of modern engineering that created Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States by volume. Believe it or not, you can actually get married on the Dam itself. There are many ways of doing this, but my favorite has to be via helicopter. The Hoover Dam Twilight Dreams Wedding offers a crazy unique wedding experience at twilight. You’ll fly across the desert valley in a helicopter to Lake Mead and Hoover Dam for the best views of the famous landmarks. Your ceremony will take place on the way back to Vegas above the bright lights of the Strip.

Interesting Fact: The Hoover Dam was originally known as the Boulder Dam, a name that was officially changed in 1947 to honor President Herbert Hoover, who played a significant role in making the dam a reality. The construction of the dam was a colossal project that required innovative techniques, including the creation of the largest concrete structure of its time.

Planning Your Visit to Hoover Dam:

• Permits for Photography: Personal photography is allowed across the Hoover Dam and its tours without the need for permits. However, commercial photography or filming may require authorization from the Bureau of Reclamation, which manages the dam.
• Best Time to Visit: The dam is open to visitors year-round, but the spring and fall seasons offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the area. Summer months can be extremely hot, especially for those wishing to take the outdoor tours or walk along the dam.
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • There are several tour options available, including the Powerplant Tour and the Dam Tour, which goes deeper into the construction and history of the Hoover Dam. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Security is tight at the Hoover Dam, so expect to go through security screenings. Certain items, such as large bags, are not allowed on the tours.
  • Since the Hoover Dam is located in a remote area, ensure you have enough gas, water, and snacks for the trip. There are facilities and a visitor center on-site, but options may be limited.
  • Consider visiting the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for a spectacular view of the dam from above. The bridge has a pedestrian walkway that offers unobstructed views of the dam and the Colorado River.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, located just 15 miles west of Las Vegas, offers a network of scenic trails and is known for its towering red sandstone peaks and ancient Native American petroglyphs. The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers two wedding locations – Overlook on State Route 159 or Red Spring. The Overlook location provides a full panoramic view of Red Rock Canyon while the Red Spring location features red rocks, trees, a boardwalk trail and platform used for the ceremony. Plus, a Red Rock Scooter Tour makes for some fun memories! I would top it off with the classic champaign spray (protip: Use the cheap stuff and keep the good bottle to actually drink.)

• Permits for Portraits or a Wedding: Permits are required for commercial photography and special events like weddings. It is best to contact the Bureau of Reclamation or the Hoover Dam Visitor Center for specific regulations and application procedures.
• Best Time of Year to Visit: The dam can be visited year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for exploring the area.
• Other Planning Considerations: Security is tight, so be prepared for vehicle inspections and restrictions on certain items. Parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds.

Want me to plan your elopement and photograph it? Click here.

Dry Lake Bed

The Dry Lake Bed in Boulder City, Nevada, is a popular filming location due to its vast, flat landscape, often used for commercials, photo shoots, and even as a backdrop for various events and festivals. Badically, Dry Lake Bed in Boulder City is the definition of a blank canvas. It’s serene, surreal, and truly unique. The flat, dry lake bed places you and your partner in the heart of this natural scenery, with the horizon and surrounding mountains as a witness to your ceremony. It’s an excellent choice for couples who love minimalism.

• Permits for Portraits or a Wedding: For commercial photography, film shoots, or weddings, a permit may be required from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), as the area is on public land managed by them.
• Best Time of Year to Visit: Early spring and late fall are ideal to avoid the extreme heat of summer and enjoy cooler, more comfortable temperatures.
• Other Planning Considerations: Due to its remote location, it’s important to prepare for limited cell service, bring ample water, sunscreen, and protective clothing. Also, be aware of weather conditions, as the area can become inaccessible due to rain.

Keep Memory Alive Center

If a wedding is all about creating memories that last a lifetime, then there’s nowhere more appropriate to tie the knot than at Las Vegas’ one-of-a-kind Keep Memory Alive Center. It’s a super cool building designed by Frank Gehry and the building kind of looks like it’s melting from the vegas sun. The center is just a few minutes from the Strip and between the building’s uniquely-Gehry design and all the standard, first-rate wedding amenities, it’s the perfect place to begin making memories together.

• Permits for Portraits or a Wedding: Special event and photography permits are required for hosting weddings or photo shoots at the center. It’s advisable to contact the venue directly for specific details and reservation procedures.
• Best Time of Year to Visit: The center hosts events year-round, with indoor facilities making it suitable for any season. However, planning an event during the milder spring or fall months may offer a more comfortable outdoor experience for guests.
• Other Planning Considerations: Given its unique architecture and purpose, events at the Keep Memory Alive Event Center tend to be on the higher end of the budget spectrum. Booking well in advance is recommended, as the venue’s calendar can fill up quickly due to its popularity and the limited number of events it can accommodate annually.

Mount Charleston

Mount Charleston is a year-round getaway for Las Vegas locals with awesome trails and ski slopes. The mountain can be seen from parts of the Las Vegas Strip when looking west. This location is unique because its got vast landscapes but is also a more traditional venue and can cater to both intimate and ceremonies of up to 60 people with an overlook view. 

• Permits for Portraits or a Wedding: For weddings or professional photography, a permit may be required, especially if you’re planning an event in one of the recreational areas or national forests. Contact the U.S. Forest Service for detailed information.
• Best Time of Year to Visit: Summer offers a cool escape from the Vegas heat, while winter provides picturesque snow scenes. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking and enjoying the changing foliage.
• Other Planning Considerations: Due to its elevation, weather can be significantly different from Las Vegas, so visitors should prepare accordingly with appropriate clothing and gear. Additionally, some roads and trails may be closed due to weather conditions, especially in winter, so checking ahead is recommended.

Death Valley National Park

Calling this one a Las Vegas location is kind of a stretch, but the two-hour drive from the strip is definitely worth it. So I actually consider it one of the places to elope in Las Vegas, even though it’s mostly in California. I personally have a bunch of selfies from here and can attest that the backgrounds are well worth the drive. It can also get pretty chilly here in the winter, and I can admit even being from the Midwest originally… It was pretty cold. I would avoid this in the summer though because it is actually the hottest place on earth.

• Permits for Portraits or a Wedding: A permit is required for commercial filming, photography, and weddings. These permits must be obtained from the National Park Service in advance.
• Best Time of Year to Visit: The most comfortable visiting months are from November to March when the temperatures are milder.
• Other Planning Considerations: Due to extreme temperatures, especially in summer, visitors should carry plenty of water, use sunscreen, and wear appropriate clothing. Always check road conditions and park advisories before your visit, as areas can be closed due to weather or safety reasons.

Let’s find the perfect place to elope in Las Vegas for you. Click here.

Las Vegas Strip Elopement Locations

Getting married on the strip doesn’t have to be quick or tacky. You could do your ceremony at one of the hotels and then do a cool tour of Vegas that includes graffiti murals, the container park, and Vegas classics like the Bellagio Fountains. There are so many places to elope in Las Vegas that it honestly was hard to narrow down.

Aria Resort and Casino

If classic wedding elegance is what you’ve always dreamed of, then a wedding at the ARIA Resort & Casino is probably the best of that in Vegas. There are five unique wedding locations inside the hotel from the Wedding Chapel to the Gallery you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. This is in my opinion the best-looking hotel in Vegas, and you can’t go wrong here.

Interesting Fact: Aria features a collection of high-tech amenities, including rooms that automatically adjust curtains, turn off unused lights, and regulate the temperature when a guest enters or leaves, enhancing its reputation for sophistication and innovation.

Planning Your Visit to Aria Resort and Casino:

• Permits for Photography: For professional photography, including portraits or wedding photos, it’s essential to contact Aria’s management. Typically, casinos have strict photography rules, especially for professional shoots, to protect the privacy of their guests.
• Best Time to Visit: Las Vegas is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit Aria Resort and Casino is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is more temperate, and the crowds are smaller.
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • Booking your stay in advance is advisable, especially if you’re targeting specific dates or events.
  • Remember, the casino and resort can be quite busy during major holidays and conventions, affecting room availability and prices.
  • Explore package deals that Aria often offers, combining rooms, dining, and entertainment for a better overall value.

Glass Gardens at Chapel of the Flowers

This one was a lucky find on Google, to be honest, but it’s incredible. Glass Gardens is one of the most gorgeous wedding venues I have ever seen and they offer packages for weddings from 2 people to 88. designer planked walls, a magnificent glass ceiling with a custom lighting system to mimic the sky, and Pinterest-inspired wedding decor. This state-of-the-art Las Vegas garden chapel will delight any couple who desires an upscale garden wedding for a fraction of the cost. 

Interesting Fact: The Chapel of the Flowers, with its history stretching back over 60 years, has been a witness to the evolution of Las Vegas as a wedding capital. It has hosted countless ceremonies, including those of celebrities, and is known for its commitment to providing a memorable experience, blending traditional elements with modern flair.

Planning Your Visit to Glass Gardens at Chapel of the Flowers:

• Permits for Photography: Photography during wedding ceremonies is typically handled by the chapel’s in-house photographers. If you wish to arrange for professional portraits in the Glass Gardens outside of a wedding ceremony, you should contact the chapel directly for their policies and any necessary permits.
• Best Time to Visit: The beauty of the Glass Gardens is that it offers a stunning garden setting year-round, making it an ideal location for weddings in any season. However, booking well in advance is crucial, as it is a popular venue.
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • Consider the chapel’s package deals, which may include photography, flowers, and even limousine service, for a seamless wedding experience.
  • The chapel provides live internet broadcasting of ceremonies, allowing friends and family who cannot attend in person to be part of your special day.
  • Given its central location in Las Vegas, planning your guest accommodations and any post-ceremony celebrations in nearby venues can be convenient and enhance the overall experience.

On the Eiffel Tower at Paris Hotel

Ever wanted to get married at the Eiffel Tower but also not spend your life’s savings to do it? Cool, me too! The closest you can get in the States is an intimate wedding at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. You can get married at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant and you’ll have room for some close friends and family. Personally, I think this would be pretty hard to beat in the evening, but the choice is yours.

Interesting Fact: Despite its reduced scale, the Eiffel Tower replica in Las Vegas was originally planned to be full-sized. However, the proximity to the airport required a reduction in height to ensure safety for incoming and outgoing flights, blending Las Vegas’s flair for the dramatic with practical considerations.

Planning Your Visit to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Hotel:

• Permits for Photography: For professional photo shoots, such as wedding or engagement photos, permission from the Paris Hotel management is necessary. There may be specific guidelines or fees for using the site for professional photography.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit for smaller crowds and pleasant weather is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months. The observation deck offers stunning views both day and night, but sunset visits are particularly spectacular.
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long wait times, especially if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or weekends.
  • Consider dining at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant, which offers a unique experience with its exceptional views and French cuisine. Reservations are highly recommended.

In front of the dancing fountains at the Bellagio

We’ve all seen it in movies since we were kids but imagine your first kiss as a married couple accented by a swell of music, lights, and a choreographed water spectacle. Shooting over 400 feet in the air, Bellagio’s mesmerizing dancing fountains serve as the grand finale for ceremonies on the Terrazza di Sogno. After the show, you can continue the party with a reception in one of Bellagio’s ballrooms or restaurants. Hard to beat, to be honest.

Interesting Fact: Opened in 1998, it was the most expensive hotel ever built at the time, costing $1.6 billion.

Planning Your Visit to the Bellagio:

• Permits for Photography: While personal photography is generally allowed throughout the resort and its public areas, professional photo shoots, including wedding or engagement photos, require prior approval from Bellagio management. There may be designated areas and specific rules to follow.
• Best Time to Visit: The Bellagio is a year-round attraction, but visiting during the weekdays can help avoid the larger crowds typical of weekends and holidays. The best times for weather are during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • For those wanting to see the fountain show, it runs every 15 to 30 minutes in the afternoons and early evenings and then every 15 minutes until midnight. Timing your visit around the showtimes can enhance the experience.
  • The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art offers a rotating exhibition, so checking the current and upcoming exhibits can add a cultural dimension to your visit.
  • Dining reservations are recommended if you wish to enjoy one of the Bellagio’s many fine dining establishments, especially those with views of the fountains.

the Venetian

I have always loved older more ornate architecture and while nothing in Vegas is really that old anymore, The Venetian at least brings back some of that architecture. You can say I do on the hotel property or go the extra mile on the Canal gondolas. Yes, you can totally get married while on a romantic gondola ride through The Venetian Canals. You can probably even tell your friends it was real Italy and see who falls for it.

Planning Your Visit to the Venetian:

• Permits for Photography: Professional photography, including wedding or engagement photos, typically requires permission from the resort’s management. The Venetian’s picturesque canals, striking architecture, and interior design make it a sought-after location for photo shoots, but guidelines and fees may apply.
• Best Time to Visit: Las Vegas enjoys a lively atmosphere year-round, but the months of March to May and September to November offer more comfortable weather for exploring the outdoor elements of the Venetian. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • Reserve gondola rides in advance, especially if visiting during peak tourist seasons or on weekends, to ensure availability.
  • The Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes offer a unique shopping experience with a Venetian twist. Planning your visit around the shopping hours can allow for a leisurely exploration of the retail offerings.
  • Dining at the Venetian is an experience in itself, with numerous restaurants by celebrity chefs. Booking reservations ahead of time is recommended, particularly for dinner at popular spots.

Hidden Oasis at The Flamingo

There aren’t many more classic Las Vegas hotels than the Flamingo, It’s hard to imagine writing a list without including it. The Flamingo has a ceremony space at the Gazebo Chapel and it feels worlds away from the chaos of the strip. Surrounded by palm trees, garden flowers, and an ivy-covered gazebo this space is perfect for weddings and elopements with up to 100 guests. The tropical grounds of the Flamingo are hard to beat for photo opportunities on your special day as well.

Interesting Fact: The Flamingo Las Vegas itself holds a rich history, being one of the oldest hotel and casinos still in operation on the Strip. It was opened in 1946 by Bugsy Siegel, a notorious gangster, and has since evolved into a family-friendly resort. The Wildlife Habitat reflects the hotel’s namesake, featuring a flock of live Chilean flamingos, and stands as a testament to the hotel’s commitment to providing unique, nature-inspired attractions.

Planning Your Visit to the Hidden Oasis at The Flamingo:

• Permits for Photography: Personal photography is welcomed in the Wildlife Habitat, making it an ideal spot for casual photographers and nature enthusiasts. However, professional photography sessions may require prior arrangement with the hotel’s management, particularly for events or large group photos.
• Best Time to Visit: The habitat is open year-round, with the best visiting times during the spring and fall months to enjoy the mild weather. Morning visits are recommended for those looking to see the animals when they are most active.
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • Admission to the Wildlife Habitat is free, making it a budget-friendly attraction for those exploring the Las Vegas Strip.
  • While the habitat offers a peaceful break from the city’s hustle, it’s important to remember sunscreen and water, as the Nevada sun can be intense, even in shaded areas.
  • Check the feeding times for the flamingos and other animals;

The Las Vegas Sign

Did you know there were two? I didn’t for a minute. There is one sign near the home of Pawn Stars and another near the Luxor off Boulder Highway – this is the newer version. If you want this totally by yourself, I would recommend trying for sunrise when pretty much every tourist is asleep or too hungover to get in the way of your photos.

Interesting Fact: The sign is not located within the city limits of Las Vegas but rather in the unincorporated town of Paradise, Nevada. This detail often surprises visitors and locals alike, illustrating the vast urban sprawl of the Las Vegas metropolitan area.

Planning Your Visit to the Las Vegas Sign:

• Permits for Photography: No permits are required for personal photography at the Las Vegas Sign, making it an accessible spot for visitors wanting to capture memories. However, professional photo shoots may need to coordinate with Clark County for any specific arrangements or permissions if you want to avoid crowds.
• Best Time to Visit: The sign can be visited any time of the year. For the best photo opportunities with fewer crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the evening. The sign is illuminated at night, offering a different but equally striking visual experience.
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • There is a small parking lot available specifically for visitors to the sign, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
  • Be prepared for potential waits if you’re visiting during busy times of the day or year, as many visitors want to take their picture with the sign.
  • The area around the sign has been developed to better accommodate tourists, including a pedestrian crossing and a designated photo-taking area, making access safer and more convenient.

Mandalay Bay / The Delano

These two hotels are some of my favorites. Mandalay Bay actually has a huge ballroom for traditional weddings surrounded by their Shark Reef which is really awesome. The grounds for both hotels and rooftops also make for incredible backdrops – provided you arrange that with the hotel so they are not as populated.

Interesting Fact: Mandalay Bay is home to the Shark Reef Aquarium, one of the largest public aquariums in North America. It houses over 2,000 animals, including sharks, giant rays, endangered green sea turtles, piranha, and a Komodo dragon, offering guests a unique underwater adventure without leaving the desert.

Planning Your Visit to Mandalay Bay / The Delano:

• Permits for Photography: Professional photography sessions at Mandalay Bay or The Delano, especially for events like weddings or engagements, typically require advance permission from the resort’s management. It’s important to check their policy and potential fees.
• Best Time to Visit: Las Vegas is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit Mandalay Bay and enjoy its outdoor features are in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is more comfortable.
• Other Planning Considerations:
  • If you’re interested in visiting the Shark Reef Aquarium, purchasing tickets in advance can save time waiting in line.
  • Mandalay Bay’s beach is an exclusive experience for guests, so booking your stay at the resort is necessary to enjoy this feature. During peak summer months, the beach can be quite popular, so arriving early to secure a good spot is recommended.
  • Dining reservations are advisable, especially if you plan to experience the top-tier restaurants within the resort or attend shows at the Mandalay Bay Events Center.

Las Vegas Elopement faq

Are there any unique, less conventional places to elope in Las Vegas outside the well-known Strip locations?

El Dorado Canyon, Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, Dry Lake Beds, The Neon Museum, and The Valley of Fire are my recommended less conventional places to Elope in Las Vegas. There are countless other locations if those don’t sound like what you are looking for.