8 best places to elope in New England
If you are planning an elopement in New England, this guide has everything you need to know from season information to location ideas to activities you can include on your wedding day!
Why elope in New England?
New England is located in the northeast region of the United States and hosts unique and beautiful landscapes. There are green forests, tranquil lakes, rushing rivers, rugged coastlines, and stunning mountains. After growing up in a landlocked state for most of my life, I really appreciate the diversity and ability to ski, hike, surf all in one day if you wanted! What’s also cool is that the compact size of all the states allows for easy exploration. Don’t even get me started on the charming towns, like my home in Portsmouth, NH, where cobblestone streets lead you through the cutest homes and historic landmarks. Whether you are chasing the unmatched fall foliage, want to enjoy all the lobster your little heart can handle, or love a snowy winter wonderland, New England is ready for you!
When to elope in New England?
In order for you to plan your perfect elopement, you really need to consider what time of year you would like! I like to think of the activities you would love to do or how you want to feel on your wedding day and go from there. Here is a breakdown for the seasons in the Northeast. Keep in mind that NE is known for its weather being unpredictable as well, so coming into it with an open mind and being prepared will be key! Lucky for you, I send out a full packing guide when we are planning your day so you can feel ultra ready for any situation!
- Spring (March – May):
- Spring weddings in New England offer the chance to take advantage of the budding flowers and fresh foliage! You should definitely plan for fluctuating temps and have many layering options available. If you are hiking, this can be a tough season especially since snowfall will be melting! I absolutely love spring season though for its lack of tourists and you can really get a bang for your buck.
- Summer (June – August):
- Summer in New England is just pure magic! There are long days, amazing sunrises + sunsets, wildflowers, and of course, lobster rolls! Waterfront or beach areas are amazing for the summer, but an early morning in the Whites could also be incredible! To avoid the heat, I would definitely recommend mornings and evenings.
- Fall (September – November):
- Fall foliage in New England is like no other. The colorful trees surrounded by mountains and streams really make for a magical atmosphere. Whether you are envisioning a hiking adventure or coastal elopement, you really can’t go wrong in the fall.
- Winter (December – February):
- Call me crazy, but I absolutely LOVE winter elopements! New England offers such a cozy and romantic atmosphere, especially when there is snow!! There are so many options including skiing with your lover or celebrating in a lodge with an inviting ambiance.
There are so many options with our seasons here!! Give me blooming flowers of spring, the warm sunshine of summer, the vibrant foliage of fall, or the cozy atmosphere of winter. I love it all.
Where to elope in New England
1. White Mountains, New Hampshire
The White Mountains are freaking magical! Only a 2 hour drive from Boston, these mountains are full of epic hiking spots, trails, and the cutest little mountain towns. If you aren’t a huge hiker, but still want those views there are quite a few spots that are perfect for a ceremony or portraits on your elopement day! Let’s not forget about the stunning waterfalls or the foliage in the fall. The Whites truly have it all! If you need help planning your New Hampshire Elopement I have made a helpful guide just for you!
Some spots to consider:
And more!
For some White Mountain Elopement Inspo check out my Cathedral Ledge and Echo Lake blog here!
2. Baxter State Park, Maine
I am absolutely obsessed with Baxter State Park!! This part of Maine offers a truly enchanting and intimate experience for couples seeking a unique and adventurous start to their adventure of marriage! Baxter Park is home to Maines tallest peak and a monumental peak on the Appalachian Trail, Katahdin. With its secluded trails and remote wilderness, this Park offers couples the opportunity to really submerse themselves in nature and the wilderness.
Some spots I love:
**To make a weekend or week out of it, my favorite campsites are definitely Roaring Brook and Chimney Pond Campground!
3. New Hampshire Seacoast
I may be biased, but the Seacoast of New Hampshire is something truly magical! Little hidden beaches full of rocky shores and sand. Wonderful little seafood shacks, and the cutest town of all – Portsmouth! I think this is such a perfect location if you are thinking about a beach or Oceanview elopement. I think it would be so fun to rent a boat and say your vows out on the water or standing on a rocky beach with the water crashing around you. So many possibilities! For some seacoast inspiration, check out J+Ls beautiful day.
4. Stowe, Vermont
Stowe, Vermont is nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains. The town itself has such a cozy ambiance, with a cute Main Street filled with historic buildings, shops, and cafes, providing the perfect atmosphere for pre- and post-ceremony celebrations. Stowe is also such a good winter elopement destination with amazing ski runs and a cute ski village. I could totally envision a skiing elopement taking place here!
Location spot ideas:
5. Acadia National Park, Maine
Ahhh, Acadia. Truly one of a kind and one of my favorite parks! This place is just pure magic and combines the openness of the sea with dramatic cliff edges and epic hiking to get all the good views. I think this is just the perfect spot for an elopement, and also is a great place to include adventure as well!
Favorite spots for elopements in Acadia:
And so many more epic locations!
6. Newport, Rhode Island
Eloping in Newport, Rhode Island offers stunning seacoast beauty! Nestled along the shores of Narragansett Bay, Newport’s stunning waterfront views, pristine beaches, and iconic Cliff Walk provide the perfect backdrop for saying I do with the soothing sound of waves as a backdrop. From charming seaside chapels to lush gardens and historic landmarks, Newport abounds with picturesque settings for intimate ceremonies that can fit different visions.
7. Boston, Massachusetts
If you are wanting a blend of history, culture, and urban charm, Boston is perfect for you! From the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill to the iconic Freedom Trail and the picturesque Boston Common, couples can get married with the timeless beauty of one of America’s oldest cities. If you elope here you could choose to do so overlooking the skyline, at a hidden garden in the North End, or even cozy corner of a historic library. Don’t even get me started on the food options here!! There’s a little bit for everyone, and this city never disappoints.
8. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape cod is such a fun and laid back atmosphere! The serene ambiance and laid-back atmosphere! Whether you envision a beachside ceremony at sunset or a cozy celebration in a historic inn, Cape Cod offers a variety of stunning settings to suit every couple’s style. Eloping in Cape Cod, Massachusetts offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, charm, and romance, making it an idyllic destination for couples seeking an intimate and unforgettable elopement experience!
New England Elopement Photographer
You truly can’t go wrong with choosing any of these places to elope in New England! They are all absolutely incredible. It just comes down to the scenery you’re looking for and the type of activities you want to include in your day! If you’re looking for a New England Elopement Photographer who will be able to help you pick out the best location for you to say your vows, guide you through planning out your entire day and document your entire elopement experience I’d be SO stoked to chat with you!!
You can contact me HERE and I cannot wait to hear all about your vision!!
