The Best Places to Elope in Arizona!

 
Groom picking up bride and kissing her in mountain elopement in Arizona
 

There is something about elopements that I have always found so so special. These intimate celebrations create such a beautiful space for love and commitment to be expressed in such a simple yet profound way! Without some of the expectations and requirements that larger ceremonies hold, elopements offer the freedom to create unique and meaningful moments in some absolutely stunning and unforgettable places. I may be a bit biased, but I think Arizona has some of the absolute best elopement locations that anyone could hope for! From the magic of Sedona to the awe-inspiring landscape of the Grand Canyon, and the hidden gems of Page, Flagstaff, and more – each location offers a stunningly unique backdrop for your intimate celebration of love. In this post I’ll share some of the best places to elope in Arizona, and what makes each one (in my professional but also deeply preferential opinion) simply the best.


the best places to elope in Arizona

SEDONA

 
Black and white photo of bride and groom sitting on a fallen tree without mountains in the background for Arizona elopement
Bride and groom celebrate with family after mountain desert Arizona elopement
Bride and groom stand in front of Arizona mountains with beautiful blue sky for elopement
Black and white photo of bride and groom dancing in front of mountains in Arizona desert
Bride and groom standing in small creek for Arizona woodland elopement
Bride and groom standing with their families in front of mountains for Arizona desert elopement
 

I can promise that you will be absolutely spellbound by the magic of Sedona, where vibrant red rock formations dramatically contrast the blue-bird sky! This desert town holds an undeniable allure for couples looking for an extraordinary elopement experience – a sun-bathed landscape with the warmest hues and the most stunning views. With iconic locations like Cathedral Rock or the serene Crescent Moon Ranch, Sedona is one of the most popular destinations for an Arizona elopement! For this reason, I definitely suggest that anyone hoping to book an elopement here opt for a weekday rather than a weekend, as the area can get quite busy. If you’re hoping to include any kind of ceremonial decor (i.e. an arch or special centerpiece), it’s good to keep in mind that you will need a permit. However, if your elopement ceremony is au naturel, no permits are necessary! It’s been said that Sedona holds uniquely spiritual energy, and I can completely confirm that this place feels almost like it’s from another world! An elopement in Sedona can never be anything but absolute magic.

THE GRAND CANYON

 
Bride with flower crown and large bouquet of flowers standing with grand canyon in the background
Bride and groom exchange vows overlooking the Grand Canyon
Bride and groom kiss with Grand Canyon in the background for Arizona elopement
 

It goes without saying that this extraordinary location elevates any elopement to an awe-inspiring experience! The Grand Canyon, a majestic wonder carved over eons by the Colorado River, stands as a testament to nature's unparalleled artistry. Stretching as far as the eye can see, this iconic location evokes a profound sense of wonder and humility for all who visit. When couples exchange vows in this epic panorama, they become part of this gorgeous tapestry woven by nature and time.

The Grand Canyon offers a truly unrivaled backdrop for a celebration of love! From sunrise to sunset, the canyon undergoes a stunning transformation, with light and shadows painting the canyon walls in a breathtaking kaleidoscope of color. The Grand Canyon's remoteness creates a beautifully intimate atmosphere that allows couples to truly immerse themselves fully in the moment. Any wedding ceremony held in the Grand Canyon does require a permit, but I can fully say that the efforts to elope in this unparalleled location are absolutely worth it. This magnificent natural wonder sets the stage for a truly unforgettable elopement, where love is amplified by the awe-inspiring backdrop, creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Want to learn how to plan a Grand Canyon elopement? Check out my complete guide here!

PAGE

 
Elopement photos at Horseshoe Bend in Page, Arizona
Couple kissing during their Page, Arizona elopement at Horseshoe Bend
 

Page is a hidden gem and an absolute dream location for an Arizona elopement! This stunning destination offers so many natural wonders that make it an exceptional spot to exchange vows. From the captivating curves of Horseshoe Bend to the other-worldly views in Antelope Canyon, Page holds a sense of untouched wildness that is so beautiful and rare. In addition to these iconic sites, Lake Powell is an oasis in the desert for a tranquil waterfront ceremony. As Page is located on a Navajo reservation, permits are required for events and elopements, and some more remote destinations require guided tours for access. However, the scenery and serenity of each of these absolutely epic locations in Page are completely and totally worth it!

FLAGSTAFF

 
Black and white photo of bride and groom and officiant standing in field of flowers for Arizona elopement
Bride and groom walking through field of yellow flowers for Arizona elopement
Bride and groom standing in field of yellow flowers with trees in the background
 

Every season brings its own unique beauty to Flagstaff, making it an idyllic year-round elopement destination! In the spring, wildflowers flood the landscape creating the most vibrant backdrop of color. Summer brings sunny days perfect for a lakefront ceremony at Lake Mary, or adventurous elopements in the Coconino National Forest. Fall covers the entire region in golden hues which is beyond dreamy and romantic! And in the colder months, snow in the San Francisco Peaks makes for an elopement winter wonderland. 

One of the things I also absolutely love about Flagstaff is its historic downtown, with charming boutiques, quaint cafes, rustic architecture, and locally-owned breweries. No matter what destination you choose for your elopement in Flagstaff, the downtown area is such a wonderful spot to bring guests, host a gathering, and just enjoy!

Want to see more Flagstaff, Arizona wedding inspiration? Check out this unique wedding at The Gardens at Viola’s.

PRESCOTT

 
 

Prescott’s unique blend of culture and natural beauty makes it a truly special place to elope in Arizona. This exceptional town rich with Western history exudes old-world charm that can make you feel transported – whisked away to a simpler and more romantic time! The city itself hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year, which can add a unique activity element to your elopement getaway if you are looking for fun things to do with your guests! 

The natural surroundings of Prescott offer so many incredible locations for elopements. If you’re looking for a bit of an adventure, the nearby Prescott National Forest provides a tranquil sanctuary with idyllic meadows and towering pines. One of my other favorite natural locations near Prescott is Watson Lake. This picturesque reservoir is known for its granite rock formations and tranquil turquoise waters, creating a scene straight out of a postcard and an absolutely stunning backdrop for any elopement ceremony! Prescott is a little bit less well-known as a wedding location in Arizona, which can make your elopement day feel even more unique and special!

SHOW LOW

 
Groom lifting bride and couple kissing in woodland Arizona elopement
Groom holding bride's bouquet and couple posing in sunlit woods for Arizona elopement
Bride and groom standing in sunlit woods for Arizona elopement
Bride and groom celebrating with family in the woods for Arizona elopement
 

Located in the picturesque White Mountains, Show Low has a serene and intimate atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable Arizona elopement! What makes Show Low truly magical is its tranquil lakeside bliss. The town is surrounded by pristine lakes such as Fool Hollow Lake, Show Low Lake, and Rainbow Lake, providing the most unbelievably incredible views! The surrounding wilderness and towering pine forests create a romantic sense of seclusion that is truly perfect for an intimate elopement celebration. I cannot say enough about the beauty of Show Low - this slightly more off-the-grid location is truly so exceptional in every way!

PHOENIX

 
Groom lifts bride into the air for a kiss in front of a chapel during their Phoenix elopement
 

The vibrant heart of the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix offers an elopement experience filled with warmth, diversity, and urban charm! This golden city blends modern amenities with natural beauty, creating a captivating atmosphere for an intimate celebration of love. What makes Phoenix truly special is its year-round sunshine and breathtaking desert landscapes. The city is surrounded by iconic desert scenery, from towering saguaro cacti to rugged mountain ranges with the most expansive skies and stunning sunsets!

Phoenix also boasts a wealth of luxurious resorts and venues, providing the perfect setting for an unforgettable elopement. From elegant rooftop terraces with panoramic city views to lush garden courtyards surrounded by blooming desert flora, there are endless options to create a wedding experience that reflects your style and vision!

I hope you’ve enjoyed journeying with me to some of the absolute best places to elope in Arizona! The Grand Canyon State is truly such an incredibly special place, full of so much dreamy diversity and natural beauty. If you’re hoping to plan your very own Arizona elopement please don’t hesitate to reach out - I would love to hear about your elopement dreams and help make them a reality!

Are you looking to plan your very own Arizona elopement? I’d love to be a part of it and photograph your day for you! Get in touch now to check availability and for more information. 

Arizona Wedding, Arizona Elopement, Wedding PhotographyKiersten RoyElopement Photographer, Arizona ElopementComment