Choosing to Elope does not limit you to just the Courthouse. Here are ten fun locations to consider for your Upstate New York Elopement.
Eloping has become so popular the last few years as the cost for Weddings has skyrocketed. Just because you decide to Elope does not mean you are limited to a Courthouse. Create an Elopement Day that you’ll remember forever doing fun things you love as a Couple. From hiking to hot air balloons to boating to hanging out at home with your fur babies. The options are endless for creating a fun Elopement that celebrates your love story.
So if you do decide to skip the Courthouse, find yourself an officiant or friend who is a notary or ordained to marry you wherever your hearts desire. New York is the perfect backdrop for your Elopement whether you’re looking for something simple or super adventurous.
Here are seven fun ideas for your Upstate New York Elopement.
Elope At Home
I know at first thought your home might not feel appealing, but home could include your Childhood home or maybe where you had your first date. If you have a beautiful property, even better, move your Elopement outdoors. Eloping at home is an awesome idea if you aren’t a fan of having an audience in public or you’re trying to stay within a small budget. Keep it comfortable and cozy and invite your favorite people to share in the celebration. This is also a great idea if you have pets who wouldn’t be able to join you elsewhere. At home there are no rules as many venues, parks and public spaces would have.
Your favorite local or State Park
State Parks have a special place in my heart and I love crossing them off the list every time I visit a new one. Obviously do your research and find one that you really love and can see yourself tying the knot in. State Parks are typically a very affordable option for Elopements. New York has over 180 State Parks and 35 of those are historic as well.
Here is the link to New York State Parks – if you are interested in a specific state park, check out their wedding requirements on their website. Each State Park has different rules and possible permits.
My personal favorites for Upstate New York Elopements are:
-Minnewaska State Park
-Adirondack Park
-Watkins Glen State Park
-Letchworth State Park
-Taughannock Falls State Park
-Saratoga Spa State Park
-Chimney Bluffs State Park
-Catskill Park
At a location that is special to your relationship
Where was your first date? Where was your proposal? Maybe your first kiss was somewhere epic? Sentimental locations bring an extra layer of meaning to an Elopement Day. It doesn’t have to be scenic to be a perfect spot. Get creative and revisit your history together to come up with some fun ideas. Think about including your shared interests or hobbies. If you are the sentimental type consider eloping where your parents were married.
At your favorite Museum or Art Gallery
If you are a Couple who loves art, consider eloping at your favorite art gallery, museum or outdoor art installation. The Hudson Valley and Upstate New York have plenty of cities with an abundance of art. Beacon and Kingston are two areas that have a lot of fun murals for a backdrop.
Here are a few resources with more museums and galleries: HVNY Arts & Culture | Albany Art Scene | Troy Museums
At a Boutique or Historic Hotel
The Hudson Valley is full of charming hotels from Poughkeepsie all the way up to Saratoga Springs in the Capital Region. Book yourself a little getaway and elope on the property, with permission of course. Here are a few really unique boutique hotels you might consider for your Elopement adventure.
The Century House – Latham, NY
The Herwood Inn – Woodstock, NY
Tarrytown House Estate – Tarrytown, NY
The Tiny Nook – Catskill, NY
Bluebird Spa City Motor Lodge – Saratoga Springs, NY
Wildflower Farms – Gardiner, NY
Hutton Brickyards – Kingston, NY
Hotel Lillen – Tannersville, NY
On a Boat
Since the Hudson Valley is abundant with lakes and obviously the Hudson River, consider chartering a small yacht or boat for your Elopement. Lake George, Hudson River or even in the Catskills you are able to rent a variety of boats for special occasions.
In the Mountains… Catskills or Adirondacks
Mountains are idyllic for Elopements. New York’s most scenic mountain ranges are the Catskills (Hudson Valley region) or the Adirondacks (about 1 hour North of Albany). Both areas provide stunning backdrops for any Elopement. The best time to elope in these New York Mountains is late spring to early summer or early fall.
Eloping is such a special experience and creating an intentional day to celebrate your love will leave you with lasting memories. The Hudson Valley and Capital Region are both really gorgeous locations to elope and Tiny House Photo is the perfect Elopement Photographer to help guide you in the right direction. Looking for a down to earth Elopement experience? Let’s create together.
7 Locations for your New York Elopement
Tiny House Photo
Albany, NY
