It’s common to hear the word elope and immediately think of going off to elope in Vegas. With around 120,000 ceremonies a year, Las Vegas is the number one wedding city in the US and the 2nd in the world.
While the legendary nightlife, Elvis officiants, and epic neon lights are all attractive features, Las Vegas has so much more to offer. From ancient petroglyphs to Aztec red sandstone, some truly amazing destinations are here.
While eloping in Vegas is relatively easy, there are still a few logistics you must consider. If you’re unsure where to start, there is no need to worry; you have come to the right place.
This article will walk you through everything you need to know to elope in Vegas.
Best Places To Elope In Vegas
Las Vegas has some of the most unique and exciting places to elope. Enjoy a ceremony that is front and center to the action or slip away from the famous strip and explore the nearby natural beauty.
Any time of the year will be suitable if you opt for an indoor ceremony. However, if you plan to get married outside or explore some outdoor activities, it’s best to come in the spring or fall when the temperature is more moderate.
If your ceremony will take place in the summer, plan for some sweltering heat.
Whether you’re looking to be in the center of the action or in a more intimate location, we have you covered. Here is a quick glance at the best places to elope in Vegas.
- Las Vegas Boulevard
- Valley Of Fire
- Red Rock Canyon
- Spring Mountain Ranch
- Fountains of Bellagio
- Cactus Joe’s Nursery
- Dry Lake Beds
Read on for a further description of each location, as well as everything you need to know to elope in Vegas legally.
1. Las Vegas Boulevard
- Permit: not required
- More information
What better way to elope in Vegas than on the Iconic strip. Say your vows, then grab a drink to toast your new journey.
No need to head indoors; it is legal to drink alcohol on the Las Vegas boulevard openly. With neon lights, spectacular fountains, countless casinos, and a thriving nightlife, you will be in the center of the fun and excitement.
2. Valley Of Fire
- Permit: required
- More information
Become completely captivated by 4,000 acres of red Aztec sandstone, ancient petroglyphs, and petrified trees. It is about a 50-minute (49.6 miles) drive outside of the center of Las Vegas, but this stunning park in the Mojave Desert will not disappoint.
You are subject to specific locations within the park and cannot tie the know wherever you please. The preapproved destinations include:
- Seven Sisters
- Rainbow Vista
- The Cabins
3. Red Rock Canyon
- Permit: required
- More information
Escape to an oasis of layered tan and red sandstone and remarkable canyon views. Red Rock Canyon is a vast conservation area filled with jaw-dropping cliffs and unique rock formations.
The canyon is a 25-minute drive (19 miles) from the Vegas strip. Some unique pre-approved locations include Overlook, Red Springs Boardwalk, and Ash Springs.
4. Spring Mountain Ranch
- Permit: required
- More information
This state park is nestled under the spring mountains and sits in the same valley as the Red Rock Canyon. Spring Mountain Ranch is widely known for its natural cold springs, lush plants, and picturesque views.
It is approximately 41 minutes (23.3 miles) from the Las Vegas strip. Ceremonies are limited to the group’s use area but do not worry; you can wander the park for a stunning photoshoot.
5. Fountains Of Bellagio
- Permit: not required
- More information
This magnificent water fountain performs every 15 minutes throughout the day. Say your vows as the water dances behind you and grab some truly magnificent photos.
While there will likely be a crowd, people are receptive to weddings and will take a step back and give you room for your photoshoot.
6. Cactus Joe’s Nursery
- Permit: not required
- More information
This quirky and unique location is filled with beautiful cacti, Joshua trees, and stunning backdrops.
Cactus Joe’s Nursery has you covered from a vivid and colorful wedding to an intimate ceremony in the desert. A few perks Joe’s has to offer are no permit requirement and no music or food restriction.
They also have onsite planners that can assist you with all of the logistics making this a very easy and straightforward process.
7. El Dorado Dry Lake Beds
- Permit: required
- More information
Get ready for a sight like no other. The Dry Lake Beds is a playa (desert basin where water evaporates quickly) that sits in the Eldorado Valley.
The flat land has deep cracks that span across the surface forming the shapes of hexagons.
This is a great destination if you’re looking for a calm and intimate destination away from all the excitement.
The Dry Lake Beds are 36 minutes (32.2 miles) drive from Las Vegas Boulevard. With no parking fee or entry fee, this is a great place to check out, even if you decide not to have your ceremony here.
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We recommend this hotel: The Venetian Resort.
How To Elope In Vegas
With its widely known popularity for shotgun weddings, it is relatively easy to elope in Vegas. Same-sex marriage is legal, and you do not have to be a state resident or US citizen to marry here.
Here is precisely what you will need to tie the knot in Vegas:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- You must have a licensed officiant marry you
- You will need a marriage license
- You will need proper identification
- Proper evidence of the termination of your previous marriage, if applicable
- One witness that is at least 18 years old
How To Obtain A Marriage License In Nevada
One of the key steps to tying the knot in Vegas is receiving a marriage license. In order to do so, both you and your partner will have to appear in person at a Nevada county clerk’s office.
Before scheduling your appointment at the local county clerk’s office, you should first complete your marriage license application. After this is complete and your appointment has been confirmed, you will have to arrive at the county’s office with your significant other and a proper photo ID.
If you are not a US citizen, make sure to bring your passport. If your passport is not in English, you will be responsible for acquiring a translated copy.
The fee for the license depends on the county you are in and ranges from $80 – $120.
Finding A Wedding Officiant
From Elvis to a pastor, you really have your pick with wedding officiants here. The primary key is just making sure they have been legally ordained.
You can check through the Nevada Secretary of State’s Office database to ensure the person or company has been granted the appropriate permission to perform marriages in the State of Nevada. This is also helpful if you are simply looking for a registered officiant.
You can search by county, name, or church affiliation and can access the database here.
If you are opting for a religious ceremony, you may need additional paperwork depending on the religion.
Another option is having a friend or family member officiate your wedding. There are several websites where they can get ordained online and have the power to legally solemnize your wedding.
Special Use Permit
As a few of the mentioned locations are state parks, you will be required to obtain a special use permit in order to marry here. A special use permit is a document that proves you received the proper permission to marry within the state park.
The price of the permit is dependent on the park you decide to get married in.
You can find out additional information by contacting the park directly. The permits may vary depending on the size of your wedding, and each location may have its own specific rules.
Elopement Packages In Vegas
If you’re looking for an effortless process, you can opt for an elopement package. Las Vegas is filled with agencies that can plan the perfect elopement from top to bottom.
From simple to elegant, there is a package that fits everyone’s needs. A basic elopement will typically include a wedding planner, an officiant, and venue assistance for $500.
If you plan to stop in one of the many chapels Vegas has to offer, they can arrange a quick ceremony for around $77.
A more inclusive package would include a wedding planner, an officiant, a venue, hair and makeup, photographer, videographer, bouquet, and boutonniere for around $5,000.
Final Thoughts On Eloping In Vegas
Las Vegas has something for every couple to enjoy, from lively and lavish to a natural oasis. With Jaw-dropping mountain views and epic nightlife, it is a great place to elope.
Whether you’re planning your elopement on your own or seeking professional help, just make sure you have completed the proper paperwork, such as a marriage license and special use permit if necessary.
Not sure if Vegas is the right place where to elope? Read one of the following guides:
