Best Destination Weddings in the US: So you’re dreaming of saying “I do” with a killer backdrop? Ditch the boring banquet hall and picture this: sun-drenched beaches, majestic mountains, or maybe a charming vineyard. This guide dives deep into the best spots across the US for tying the knot, from budget-friendly gems to luxurious escapes. We’ll cover everything from finding the perfect venue to planning unique activities for your guests, ensuring your big day is unforgettable – and totally stress-free (well, almost!).
We’ll break down top destinations by region, offering a peek into unique regional wedding styles and average costs. Whether you’re envisioning a rustic ranch wedding, a chic city celebration, or a romantic beach ceremony, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also explore budget-friendly options, luxury venues, and even provide a handy checklist to help you navigate the planning process. Get ready to say “yes” to the adventure of planning your dream destination wedding!
Top US Wedding Destinations by Region: Best Destination Weddings In The Us
Planning a destination wedding in the US? With so many amazing locations to choose from, it can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the top destinations by region, highlighting their unique charms and giving you a better idea of what to expect in terms of cost. Remember, these are just averages, and actual costs can vary widely depending on the season, venue, and guest count.
Top US Wedding Destinations by Region: A Regional Overview
Choosing a wedding destination depends heavily on the vibe you’re going for. The Northeast offers classic elegance and romantic charm, while the Southeast boasts Southern hospitality and lush landscapes. The Midwest provides a mix of rustic charm and urban sophistication, the Southwest offers stunning desert vistas, and the West Coast showcases breathtaking coastal scenery and modern aesthetics. Let’s dive into the specifics.
Regional Wedding Destination Details
| Region | Destination | Notable Features | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Bar Harbor, Maine | Stunning coastal scenery, charming New England towns, lobster feasts. | $30,000 – $70,000+ |
| Northeast | Newport, Rhode Island | Gilded Age mansions, beautiful beaches, sophisticated atmosphere. | $40,000 – $80,000+ |
| Northeast | Stowe, Vermont | Mountain views, charming inns, skiing/hiking opportunities (seasonal). | $35,000 – $65,000+ |
| Northeast | Hudson Valley, New York | Historic estates, vineyards, charming towns, easy access to NYC. | $30,000 – $75,000+ |
| Northeast | Boston, Massachusetts | Historic charm, vibrant city life, access to numerous venues. | $45,000 – $90,000+ |
| Southeast | Charleston, South Carolina | Historic architecture, Southern charm, beautiful beaches. | $35,000 – $70,000+ |
| Southeast | Savannah, Georgia | Historic squares, Spanish moss-draped oaks, Southern hospitality. | $30,000 – $60,000+ |
| Southeast | Nashville, Tennessee | Live music, honky-tonks, Southern cuisine, vibrant nightlife. | $25,000 – $50,000+ |
| Southeast | New Orleans, Louisiana | Unique culture, jazz music, delicious food, vibrant atmosphere. | $30,000 – $65,000+ |
| Southeast | Hilton Head Island, South Carolina | Beautiful beaches, golf courses, luxurious resorts. | $40,000 – $80,000+ |
| Midwest | Chicago, Illinois | Iconic architecture, vibrant city life, diverse venues. | $35,000 – $70,000+ |
| Midwest | Traverse City, Michigan | Beautiful vineyards, stunning lake views, charming towns. | $25,000 – $55,000+ |
| Midwest | Galena, Illinois | Historic charm, rolling hills, charming bed and breakfasts. | $20,000 – $45,000+ |
| Midwest | Door County, Wisconsin | Charming towns, stunning lake views, lighthouses, cherry orchards. | $22,000 – $50,000+ |
| Midwest | New Glarus, Wisconsin | Swiss heritage, rolling hills, breweries, charming atmosphere. | $18,000 – $40,000+ |
| Southwest | Sedona, Arizona | Red rock formations, stunning desert landscapes, spiritual atmosphere. | $30,000 – $60,000+ |
| Southwest | Santa Fe, New Mexico | Unique Southwestern architecture, art galleries, vibrant culture. | $28,000 – $55,000+ |
| Southwest | Tucson, Arizona | Desert landscapes, historic missions, beautiful resorts. | $25,000 – $50,000+ |
| Southwest | San Antonio, Texas | Historic missions, River Walk, vibrant city life. | $22,000 – $45,000+ |
| Southwest | Palm Springs, California | Mid-century modern architecture, desert landscapes, luxurious resorts. | $35,000 – $70,000+ |
| West Coast | Monterey, California | Stunning coastline, charming town, romantic atmosphere. | $40,000 – $80,000+ |
| West Coast | San Francisco, California | Iconic landmarks, vibrant city life, diverse venues. | $50,000 – $100,000+ |
| West Coast | Carmel-by-the-Sea, California | Quaint town, beautiful beaches, romantic atmosphere. | $45,000 – $90,000+ |
| West Coast | Seattle, Washington | Stunning waterfront views, iconic Space Needle, vibrant city life. | $40,000 – $80,000+ |
| West Coast | Portland, Oregon | Hipster vibe, craft breweries, food carts, beautiful parks. | $35,000 – $70,000+ |
Budget-Friendly Destination Wedding Options
Planning a destination wedding doesn’t have to break the bank! Many beautiful and unique locations across the US offer stunning backdrops without the hefty price tag of some more popular spots. Choosing the right location and implementing some smart planning strategies can make your dream destination wedding a reality, even on a tighter budget. This section explores five budget-friendly options and provides sample budgets to help you get started.
Five Budget-Friendly US Wedding Destinations
Several US locations offer a fantastic balance of beauty, affordability, and accessibility. These destinations provide a charming setting without requiring a significant financial commitment. Consider these options for your big day:
- New Orleans, Louisiana: New Orleans boasts a unique blend of culture, history, and vibrant atmosphere. Its charm extends to affordable venues like historic courtyards or charming bed and breakfasts, significantly reducing venue costs compared to more established resort destinations. The city’s rich culinary scene also allows for delicious and cost-effective catering options.
- Asheville, North Carolina: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers breathtaking scenery and a charming downtown area. Many rustic barns and vineyards provide beautiful settings at competitive prices. The abundance of local breweries and farm-to-table restaurants can also contribute to budget-friendly catering choices.
- Savannah, Georgia: Savannah’s historic squares, cobblestone streets, and antebellum architecture create a romantic and elegant atmosphere. Several charming hotels and inns offer competitive wedding packages, and the city’s strong culinary heritage means catering can be managed effectively without compromising quality.
- Austin, Texas: Austin’s vibrant music scene and laid-back atmosphere make it a fun and affordable destination. Outdoor venues like parks and gardens can be rented at reasonable rates, and the city’s diverse food truck scene provides creative and cost-effective catering options. Think delicious BBQ or Tex-Mex feasts!
- Portland, Oregon: Known for its quirky charm and natural beauty, Portland offers a range of affordable venues, from industrial-chic spaces to rustic breweries. The city’s thriving food scene features numerous local farms and artisan food producers, allowing for delicious and budget-conscious catering.
Sample Wedding Budgets for Budget-Friendly Destinations
The following are estimated budgets, and actual costs will vary based on guest count, specific vendors, and chosen services. These examples provide a general framework.
| Destination | Venue | Catering | Photography | Other (Flowers, DJ, etc.) | Total (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans | $3,000 | $5,000 | $2,500 | $2,500 | $13,000 |
| Asheville | $2,500 | $4,000 | $2,000 | $2,000 | $10,500 |
| Savannah | $3,500 | $4,500 | $2,500 | $2,000 | $12,500 |
| Austin | $2,000 | $3,500 | $2,000 | $1,500 | $9,000 |
| Portland | $3,000 | $4,000 | $2,500 | $2,000 | $11,500 |
Cost-Saving Strategies for Budget-Friendly Destination Weddings
Several strategies can help keep your destination wedding within budget.
- Consider off-season or weekday weddings: Venues often offer discounted rates during the off-season or on weekdays.
- Opt for smaller guest lists: Reducing the number of guests significantly impacts catering and other costs.
- DIY decorations and favors: Personalizing your wedding with DIY elements can save money on professional services.
- Utilize local vendors: Local vendors often offer more competitive pricing than those traveling from afar.
- Embrace potluck-style elements: Incorporate a casual element, such as a dessert bar or a cocktail hour with appetizers, to reduce formal catering costs.
Luxury Destination Wedding Venues
Planning a destination wedding? For couples seeking the ultimate in elegance and sophistication, a luxury venue elevates the experience from memorable to unforgettable. These venues offer not just a space, but a complete experience, taking care of every detail to ensure a seamless and luxurious celebration.
Five Luxurious Wedding Venues Across the US
Several venues across the country stand out for their exceptional amenities, impeccable service, and stunning settings. These locations provide a range of styles and experiences, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
So you’re planning a killer destination wedding in the US? Awesome! Figuring out the logistics can be a total beast, but totally worth it. Check out some amazing locations, then start planning your trip using resources like Travelling to nail down flights and accommodation. Once you’ve got the travel sorted, you can really focus on the fun parts of your big day – like the dress and the cake!
| Venue Name | Location | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Resort at Pelican Hill | Newport Coast, California | Oceanfront villas, multiple event spaces (including a stunning outdoor terrace), world-class spa, gourmet dining options, dedicated wedding planners. | $$$$$ (High-end luxury) |
| The Breakers Palm Beach | Palm Beach, Florida | Historic landmark hotel, expansive oceanfront views, multiple ballrooms and outdoor spaces, exceptional catering and service, access to private beach and pool areas. | $$$$ (Luxury) |
| The Lodge at Sea Island | Sea Island, Georgia | Secluded coastal resort, luxurious accommodations, championship golf courses, private beach access, award-winning dining, highly personalized wedding services. | $$$$ (Luxury) |
| The Sanctuary Camelback Mountain | Paradise Valley, Arizona | Stunning desert landscape views, multiple indoor and outdoor venues, luxurious spa and fitness center, gourmet dining experiences, personalized wedding planning. | $$$$ (Luxury) |
| Oheka Castle | Huntington, New York | Historic Gold Coast mansion, sprawling grounds, opulent ballrooms and terraces, stunning architecture, on-site catering and event planning services. | $$$ (Upper-mid-range luxury) |
Wedding Styles Catered To by Each Venue, Best destination weddings in the us
Each venue mentioned above caters to a variety of wedding styles, though some lend themselves more naturally to certain aesthetics. The Resort at Pelican Hill, with its modern architecture and ocean views, easily accommodates both modern and classic styles. The Breakers Palm Beach, a historic landmark, provides a classic and elegant backdrop, while The Lodge at Sea Island’s coastal setting is perfect for a relaxed, elegant, or even rustic-chic wedding.
The Sanctuary Camelback Mountain’s desert setting lends itself to elegant, modern, or even bohemian styles, depending on the chosen decor. Oheka Castle, with its opulent architecture, is ideally suited for a classic, grand, or even fairytale-themed wedding.
Destination Wedding Venues by Theme
Choosing the perfect venue is arguably the most important decision in planning a destination wedding. The venue sets the tone, influences the guest experience, and ultimately contributes significantly to the overall success of your special day. This section explores five popular wedding themes and provides examples of venues that perfectly capture the essence of each.
Beach Wedding Venues
Beach weddings offer a relaxed, romantic atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking a casual yet elegant celebration. The sound of the waves, the warm sand between your toes, and the breathtaking sunset views create an unforgettable backdrop.
Two exceptional beach wedding venues are the Hotel del Coronado in Coronado, California, and the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island in Florida. The Hotel del Coronado, with its iconic Victorian architecture and stunning beachfront location, offers a blend of classic elegance and laid-back beach vibes. Imagine exchanging vows on the pristine sand, followed by a reception under the stars. The ideal time to wed here is during the spring or fall, avoiding the summer heat and potential crowds.
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, provides a more luxurious and private beach setting. Its pristine beach, coupled with the resort’s impeccable service, guarantees a truly unforgettable experience. The best time to get married here is during the milder months of spring or fall, escaping the summer humidity and the occasional winter chill.
Mountain Wedding Venues
Mountain weddings offer a majestic and awe-inspiring setting, ideal for couples who appreciate nature’s grandeur. The stunning scenery, fresh mountain air, and breathtaking views create a romantic and unforgettable experience.
Two venues that embody this theme are The Little Nell in Aspen, Colorado, and the Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina. The Little Nell, nestled in the heart of Aspen, offers unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Imagine saying “I do” with the majestic peaks as your backdrop, followed by a sophisticated reception in their elegant ballroom.
The best time to wed here is during the summer or early fall when the weather is pleasant and the mountain scenery is at its most vibrant. The Omni Grove Park Inn, situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, boasts stunning mountain views and a charming, historic atmosphere. Its various indoor and outdoor spaces offer flexibility for different wedding styles, and the resort’s amenities ensure a comfortable and luxurious experience for both the couple and their guests.
The ideal time for a wedding here is during the fall, when the foliage is at its peak color, creating a breathtakingly beautiful setting.
Vineyard Wedding Venues
Vineyard weddings offer a romantic and sophisticated setting, perfect for couples who appreciate the beauty of nature and the charm of wine country. The rolling vineyards, lush greenery, and rustic charm create an elegant and intimate atmosphere.
Two exemplary vineyard wedding venues are Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga, California, and the Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley, California. Castello di Amorosa, a stunning Tuscan-style castle, offers a unique and unforgettable setting for a vineyard wedding. The castle’s breathtaking architecture, coupled with the surrounding vineyards, creates a truly magical atmosphere. The ideal time for a wedding here is during the fall harvest season, when the vineyards are at their most vibrant and the weather is still pleasant.
Auberge du Soleil, with its luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views of the Napa Valley, provides an elegant and sophisticated setting for a vineyard wedding. Its stunning location, combined with its impeccable service, ensures a truly memorable experience. The best time to get married here is during the spring or fall, avoiding the summer heat and the potential for crowds.
Ranch Wedding Venues
Ranch weddings offer a rustic and charming setting, perfect for couples who appreciate the beauty of the countryside and the warmth of a traditional celebration. The open spaces, rustic charm, and natural beauty create a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
Two excellent examples are The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole in Wyoming and the Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming. The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole offers a luxurious and rustic setting with stunning views of the Teton Range. The resort’s elegant accommodations and impeccable service ensure a comfortable and unforgettable experience. Summer is the best time for a wedding here, with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
Brush Creek Ranch, a sprawling ranch in the heart of Wyoming, provides a more secluded and intimate setting. Its rustic charm, coupled with its stunning natural beauty, creates a truly unforgettable experience. The best time to get married here is also during the summer, taking advantage of the pleasant weather and the ranch’s outdoor activities.
City Wedding Venues
City weddings offer a sophisticated and exciting setting, perfect for couples who appreciate the energy and vibrancy of urban life. The stunning architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and endless possibilities for unique venues create an unforgettable experience.
Two iconic city wedding venues are The Plaza Hotel in New York City and the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco. The Plaza Hotel, with its elegant architecture and timeless charm, offers a luxurious and sophisticated setting for a city wedding. Imagine exchanging vows in the hotel’s grand ballroom, followed by a glamorous reception in one of its many elegant spaces.
The best time to get married here is during the spring or fall, avoiding the summer heat and the potential for crowds. The Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco, with its stunning views of the city and the bay, provides a luxurious and unforgettable setting. Its elegant architecture and impeccable service ensure a truly memorable experience. Spring or fall are also the ideal times to get married here, providing pleasant weather and avoiding the potential for rain or fog.
Planning a destination wedding in the US can seem daunting, but with a little planning and this guide as your trusty sidekick, it’s totally doable. From choosing the perfect location that reflects your style and budget to coordinating all the logistical details, remember to prioritize what truly matters: celebrating your love with the people you cherish most. So, grab your fiancé(e), a glass of bubbly, and let’s start planning the ultimate US destination wedding that you’ll be reminiscing about for years to come!
Question Bank
What’s the best time of year to get married in each region?
It varies by region and specific location! Check the average weather for your chosen destination and consider factors like hurricane season (Southeast) or potential wildfires (West Coast).
How do I handle guest travel arrangements?
Create a dedicated website with travel information, suggest group hotel rates, and consider hiring a travel agent to assist your guests.
What are some unique wedding favors I can give my guests?
Local products, personalized items reflecting the destination (e.g., local wine, handcrafted jewelry), or charitable donations in your guests’ names are all great options.
Do I need travel insurance for a destination wedding?
Absolutely! It protects you against unexpected events like flight cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
