Looking for the best places to elope in PA?
You’ve come to the right place!
Pennsylvania offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations for couples who want to tie the knot without the fuss and expense of a traditional wedding.
From romantic mountain retreats, to historic venues and picturesque countryside settings, there are numerous options to choose from.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to elope in Pennsylvania, each with its unique charm and beauty, and tell you exactly why you should consider eloping there.
Whether you’re looking for a nature-filled location or a cultural hotspot, read on to discover exactly where to elope in the Keystone State!
And don’t forget to check our ultimate guide on eloping in Pennsylvania, which tells you everything you need to know on how to elope in PA, from the legal aspects, to the costs, to tips on planning the perfect elopement ceremony!
The best places to elope in PA
Pennsylvania offers a diverse range of stunning landscapes, historic venues, and exciting cities that make for a memorable and unique elopement experience.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic mountain getaway, a rustic countryside setting, or a chic urban venue, couples are spoiled for choice of places to elope in Pennsylvania.
Natural places to elope in PA
You’re spoiled for choice is you are seeking a natural place to elope in PA.
The state is home to several breathtaking mountain ranges, including the Pocono Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop for an intimate ceremony.
Additionally, Pennsylvania is dotted with picturesque lakes, rivers, and forests, making it an ideal destination for couples who love the great outdoors.
The Pocono Mountains
The Poconos are a romantic destination for couples who want to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.
The region offers numerous hiking trails, lakes, and waterfalls, as well as charming bed and breakfasts and cabins for overnight stays.
Couples can exchange their vows in front of a mountain vista or in a secluded forest glade.
Ricketts Glen State Park
Ricketts Glen is a nature lover’s paradise, with 22 stunning waterfalls nestled in a lush forest.
Couples can tie the knot in front of one of the park’s many waterfalls or on the shores of Lake Jean.
The park also offers several rustic cabins for overnight stays, making it the perfect location for a romantic elopement getaway.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Hawk Mountain is a breathtaking destination for couples who love birdwatching and hiking.
The sanctuary boasts over 8 miles of scenic trails, which lead to stunning overlooks and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The sanctuary’s iconic lookout tower provide a beautiful elopement location, or couples could consider using one of the secluded trails.
Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle is a natural wonderland, with cascading waterfalls, rushing rivers, and miles of hiking trails.
Couples can have their ceremony in front of the park’s famous Cucumber Falls or on the banks of the Youghiogheny River.
he park also offers several charming cottages for overnight stays, as well as a variety of outdoor activities like white water rafting and kayaking.
Cherry Springs State Park
Cherry Springs is a stargazing paradise, with some of the darkest skies on the east coast.
Imagine exchanging vows under a canopy of stars or on one of the park’s scenic overlooks.
The park also offers several camping options, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts for a unique and memorable overnight stay.
City elopement venues in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has some fantastic city locations for elopements, making it an ideal destination for couples who want the energy and excitement of an urban setting.
Philadelphia, for example, is a popular city location for elopements, with its historic architecture, picturesque parks, and romantic neighborhoods providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable wedding.
Other Pennsylvania cities, such as Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, also offer a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, making them ideal destinations for couples who want a city elopement without sacrificing a connection to nature.
These cities have plenty of parks, gardens, and scenic riverfronts that provide a lovely contrast to the bustling city atmosphere.
Pennsylvania’s cities also offer a range of cultural and culinary experiences, providing couples with the opportunity to explore and indulge in the local food, art, and music scenes.
From fine dining to art galleries to live music venues, there’s no shortage of entertainment options for couples who want to celebrate their love in an exciting city location.
Let’s have a look at some of the best places to elope in PA that are cities!
Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a vibrant and historic city with plenty of charming and romantic neighborhoods.
The city has many iconic locations like the Liberty Bell or the Art Museum steps.
Philadelphia’s picturesque parks and gardens also make wonderful urban-nature elopement locations.
Philadelphia also boasts a thriving food and art scene, making it the perfect destination for couples who want to combine their elopement with a cultural experience.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is a city of bridges, with over 400 spanning its three rivers.
One of the city’s iconic bridges would make for a spectacular city elopement ceremony spot.
Couples could also consider one of its many charming parks.
Pittsburgh also has a strong cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and galleries, as well as a burgeoning food and craft beer scene.
Harrisburg
Harrisburg is the capital of Pennsylvania and a charming city with a rich history.
Couples can exchange their vows in one of the city’s many historic buildings or parks, or along the scenic Susquehanna River.
Harrisburg also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that you can visit before or after your elopement ceremony.
Bethlehem
Bethlehem is a charming city with a strong industrial history.
Couples can use one of the city’s many historic buildings or parks for their venue, or alternatively one of its numerous art and music festivals.
Bethlehem is also known for its food and craft beer scene, as well as its charming bed and breakfasts and boutique hotels.
Lancaster
Lancaster is a delightful city with a rich Amish heritage.
One of the city’s many historic buildings or parks can be used for your ceremony.
Alternatively, one of its numerous farmers’ markets and local festivals would make for a unique and memorable spot to elope in PA!
Lancaster also offers a variety of picturesque and romantic accommodation options, including charming bed and breakfasts and historic inns.
Historic places to elope in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is known for its rich history, which is evident in its numerous historic landmarks and venues.
From grand mansions and estates to quaint bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of venues that offer a vintage and romantic atmosphere for couples to exchange their vows.
Many of these locations have been restored to their former glory, providing an authentic and charming backdrop for an elopement.
Let’s have a look at the best places to elope in PA that also have a rich history!
Gettysburg
Gettysburg is a historic town that played a crucial role in the Civil War.
With numerous historic landmarks and picturesque settings, it’s a great location for an intimate and meaningful wedding ceremony.
Valley Forge
Valley Forge is a location that became very important in the American Revolution.
Its beautiful natural scenery and historic landmarks make it an ideal location for couples who want a wedding with a touch of history.
The Pennsbury Manor
The Pennsbury Manor, located in Morrisville, Pennsylvania, was once home to William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania.
The stunning 43-acre property features beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and a charming riverside location.
The Brandywine Valley
The Brandywine Valley offers stunning natural beauty and numerous historic landmarks, making it a wonderful setting for a wedding that is both romantic and meaningful.
Washington Crossing
The Washington Crossing Historic Park is a beautiful location that played a key part in the American Revolution.
Its serene natural setting and historic landmarks make it a great choice for couples who want a unique place to elope in Pennsylvania.
Ephrata Cloister
The Ephrata Cloister is a historic site located in Lancaster County, founded in 1732 by German settlers.
It offers a peaceful and serene setting for couples to exchange vows surrounded by the beauty of the historic site’s gardens and buildings.
Moravian Pottery and Tile Works
Located in Doylestown, the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works is a historic landmark that provides a unique and charming backdrop for elopements.
The site features beautiful tile works and mosaics that reflect the rich history of Pennsylvania.
Fort Mifflin
Fort Mifflin is a historic site located in Philadelphia, and was used during the Revolutionary War.
The site offers a unique and unforgettable setting for couples who want to exchange their vows in a location that reflects Pennsylvania’s rich history.
The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, located in Strasburg, is a fascinating and unique PA elopement venue.
Couples can exchange their vows surrounded by historic trains and locomotives, giving them one-of-a-kind wedding photos and memories that will last a lifetime.
Unique places to elope in PA
Pennsylvania has a wealth of unique places to elope that offer couples a one-of-a-kind experience.
The Mutter Museum
For couples who appreciate the macabre, the Mutter Museum in Philadelphia offers a unique and memorable setting for an elopement.
This medical museum features a fascinating collection of preserved anatomical specimens and medical oddities, making it a perfect backdrop for a wedding that is both quirky and unforgettable.
Fallingwater
Fallingwater is an architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, nestled in the serene wilderness of the Laurel Highlands.
This stunning location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and cascading waterfall, making it an wonderful place to elope in PA for couples wanting a romantic and intimate ceremony.
Eastern State Penitentiary
This historic prison in Philadelphia offers a haunting and unique backdrop for an elopement.
With its crumbling walls, eerie cells, and fascinating history, Eastern State Penitentiary is the perfect PA elopement location for couples that want a wedding that is both unconventional and unforgettable.
The Kutztown Folk Festival
The Kutztown Folk Festival is a celebration of Pennsylvania Dutch culture and heritage, featuring traditional music, crafts, and food.
For couples wanting a wedding that is both fun and meaningful, this festival offers a unique and festive backdrop for an elopement.
The Abandoned PA Turnpike
The abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike is a surreal and post-apocalyptic location that offers a one-of-a-kind setting for an elopement.
This stretch of the turnpike, which was bypassed by a newer highway in the 1960s, features long abandoned tunnels, rusted bridges, and overgrown pavement.
For couples who want an elopement ceremony that is both eerie and unconventional, this location offers a haunting and unforgettable backdrop for an elopement.
Tips on choosing where to elope in PA
With so many great places to elope in Pennsylvania, it can be hard to choose where to hold your ceremony.
Here are some tips you can use to help you pick where to host your special day!
1. Consider your priorities and your preferred type of location
The first step in choosing a location for your elopement is to think about what matters most to you.
Are you looking for a beautiful natural setting, a unique and quirky location, or a historic landmark?
Do you want to be close to a city or in a remote wilderness area?
Knowing what you are looking for will help you narrow down your options and make a decision that feels right for you.
2. Research locations
Once you have an idea of what you are looking for, start researching locations that fit your criteria.
Look for reviews and photos online, and check out social media for inspiration.
You may also want to reach out to wedding planners or elopement photographers in the area for recommendations.
3. Consider any permits or restrictions
Some locations may require permits for weddings or have restrictions on the number of guests, hours of operation, or the use of certain areas.
Make sure you are aware of any rules and regulations before choosing a location.
4. Think about accessibility
Consider how easy or difficult it will be to travel to and from your chosen location.
If you have guests or vendors attending, make sure the location is accessible for them as well.
5. Think about the season
Pennsylvania experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own unique charm.
Consider what time of year you want to get married and how the location will look and feel during that season.
For example, a mountain location may be beautiful in the fall when the leaves are changing, but it may be difficult to access in the winter.
6. Trust your instincts
Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing a location for your elopement is how it makes you feel.
If a location speaks to you and feels right, then it may be the perfect place for your wedding day.
Once you consider these points, it should become easier to narrow down your options of where to elope in PA.
More Resources
We hope that this guide has been helpful to you in researching the best places to elope in PA!
Be sure to see our ultimate guide on eloping in PA, which covers everything from the legal requirements of having a PA elopement, to the costs involved, to tips on finding the perfect vendors for your day!
If you are still considering where to elope, have a look at these top places to elope in the US for some more ideas!