Looking for the best places to elope in New England? We’ve got you! NE has SO much to offer that it’s easy to get overwhelmed by your choices. So, we narrowed down the list by picking the best of the best from the New England states. Let’s dive in, starting with our favorite places to stay during your trip.
Also Check: Best Places to Get Married in Texas
Places to Elope & Stay in New England Top Picks at a Glance
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- Blue Harbor House Inn
- Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Portland
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Boston South Bay
- Americas Best Value Inn – E Greenbush / Albany
- The Periwinkle B&B
Check this comparison table for a quick guide to just our top 5 picks. Read the review for further details.
18 Best Places to Elope in New England (Detailed Guide)
Outdoor weddings in New England are the best choice if you want to feel free with your partner. The breathtaking sceneries, fresh air, and the love of your life by your side will make your special day unique.
And the best part of it is that many outdoor venues are for free! There are, however, places where you will need a special permit, but the prices are not that high. So there is no need to spend much to have a memorable wedding in New England.
If having a big crazy wedding is not your vibe, check out the list of best places to elope in New England.
1. Deer Isle, Maine
Deer Isle- located off the coast of Maine east of Augusta (but still reachable by bridge), is a positively remarkable place to elope! Not only does it have all the charm of a New England island, but the town itself is incredibly friendly and welcoming. Take your time to enjoy the slow and romantic pace of your honeymoon here.
With epic views of the Atlantic Ocean on every coast and stunning landscapes inland, your pictures will be awe-inspiring no matter where on the island you choose to tie the knot. After the big moment, stay awhile and enjoy one of their 12+ gorgeous nature conservatories. There’s really no other place like Deer Isle in Maine!
Where to stay in Deer Isle, Maine
Top attractions to see in Deer Isle, Maine
If you are into nature and wildlife, make sure to visit the Barred Island Preserve in Deer Isle. Leading the pine forest you will reach the spectacular shore that this town is famous for.
2. Portland, Maine
Portland in Maine is remarkable for its splendid ocean views and mindblowing gardens. It combines all the beautiful sites and entertainment couples want while eloping. Even though it is the largest city in Maine, you can still intimate elopement here.
The romantic atmosphere of your wedding day will make your elopement even more intimate and remarkable. Take advantage of the beautiful sceneries to have a professional photoshoot and remember the best of your life for a very long time.
Where to stay in Portland, Maine
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Portland
Fireside Inn & Suites Portland
Top attractions to see in Portland, Maine
Portland Head Light is one of the most historic and oldest places in Maine. So if you decided to spend some time in Portland, Maine, make sure to visit this astounding place.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston has gorgeous old buildings and landmarks that make it the perfect romantic place to get married. It’s also a city that’s constantly improving and expanding, meaning there are always new restaurants and attractions opening up.
The city is known for its rich history, which is reflected in the architecture of its older buildings. The city even offers some pretty fun historical tours that you can take with your partner before the ceremony.
When eloping in Boston, you’ll need a marriage license, of course. Couples also need to complete a Marriage Intention form at the City Hall. The marriage license will be valid only for 60 days.
Where to stay in Boston, Massachusetts
The Westin Boston Seaport District
Home2 Suites by Hilton Boston South Bay
Hampton Inn & Suites Boston Crosstown Center
Top attractions to see in Boston, Massachusetts
Having fun and romantic time with your partner during a sunset cruise in the Boston Harbor can be one of the most remarkable times of your elopement. So don’t miss the chance to have this experience.
4. Cheshire, Massachusetts
Cheshire, Massachusetts is a quaint town that offers a beautiful New England feel. It’s best known for its founding by Samuel Cheshire in 1738 and for the iconic “White Horse Tavern”. It’s home to many historic homes and churches and it has many sites that are perfect for eloping.
There are so many beautiful wedding venues where you can arrange your ceremony and have the best time to remember forever. With the scenic landscapes and perfect weather, this place is gorgeous for your dream elopement.
Where to stay in Cheshire, Massachusetts
Americas Best Value Inn – E Greenbush / Albany
Top attractions to see in Cheshire, Massachusetts
To see the best views of Cheshire, Ma, you can visit Mount Greylock State Reservation. The summit offers a 360-degree view of Northern Berkshire County and Central Vermont. Mount Greylock’s summit can be reached by car or on foot; there are trails with varying levels of difficulty available for hiking or mountain biking.
5. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket, MA is an island in Massachusetts and features beautiful beaches and a charming town. This enchanting island will leave you speechless with its ocean views.
Nantucket offers many scenic backdrops–the beach, the harbor, and even the Nantucket Ice Cream Social–that are perfect for an intimate ceremony. The tourism office can help you find a location to host your intimate elopement with vendors that provide everything from flowers to cake to catering.
Where to stay in Nantucket, Massachusetts
Top attractions to see in Nantucket, Massachusetts
If you want to learn more about the history of Nantucket, make sure to visit the Whaling Museum. You can also visit the Surfside beach located directly on the Atlantic Ocean.
6. Salem, Massachusetts
Spooky-themed weddings certainly stand out among the rest of traditional theme weddings. And even if it is just an elopement, having your wedding theme Halloween, is very bold, and everyone loves it. Salem is the best choice for you as it offers great venues for elopements with a Halloween theme.
Even if you’re not going for a Halloween-theme, eloping in Salem has many benefits. Besides the scenery, there are several historic buildings that make for excellent backdrops for your wedding photos. The city also offers a lot of free or low-cost options for eloping, such as parks and public venues.
Where to stay in Salem, Massachusetts
Top attractions to see in Salem, Massachusetts
Salem has a variety of tourist attractions including museums, memorials, cemeteries and parks. If you do just one thing while you’re there, though, make it visiting the House of Seven Gables.
The House of Seven Gables is a classic New England home with sweeping views of Salem Harbor and Marblehead Neck. It was built in 1760 by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s grandfather, according to family legend. The house was given to the city as a museum in 1924 by one of Hawthorne’s descendants.
7. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Martha’s Vineyard is one of the best choices for a destination wedding with its serene gardens, calming energy, and scenic beach views. The beauty of this small town gives your unforgettable day more uniqueness and charm.
The island is full of beautiful scenery which will make your photos pop. It also has plenty of scenic landmarks to choose from like Oak Bluffs Lighthouse in Edgartown or Menemsha Fishing Village in Menemsha.
There are also affordable options like the Beach Plum Inn where you can get great rates on rooms even if it is just you two and you can have your ceremony right on their beachfront property!
Where to stay in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Martha’s Vineyard Surfside Hotel
Top attractions to see in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
You can take many trips while enjoying your time in Martha’s Vineyard, but one of the most popular places to visit is the Edgartown Lighthouse. This island also offers a variety of beaches and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
8. Ipswich, Massachusetts
If you decided to have a small wedding with just the two of you, go for it! Ipswich will make your dream day intimate and romantic with one of the top wedding destinations in New England. Start the fairytale of your life from your elopement.
The town offers many beautiful scenic views that will make your wedding photos come out amazing. In addition to this, there are many attractions in the area like Ipswich Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and Crane Beach.
Where to stay in Martha’s Ipswich, Massachusetts
Wylie Inn and Conference Center at Endicott College
Candlewood Suites Boston North Shore – Danvers
Top attractions to see in Ipswich, Massachusetts
Having a tour in Castle Hill on The Crane, you will have an unforgettable experience. This majestic seaside estate will leave you speechless with its marvelous landscapes and breathtaking views of the shore.
9. Provincetown, Massachusetts
Ptown is a one-of-a-kind destination to choose from for elopements if you want to have a small ceremony with just your friends and family by your side. The brightness and liveliness of the town will fill you with energy and passion.
Stunning beaches for seaside ceremonies and incredible views of secret gardens will allow you to have the most romantic time of your life. Your dream can become a reality in Provincetown.
The town has a long history as a LGBT-friendly destination, as they were one of the very first towns in the US to allow gay marriage.
Where to stay in Provincetown, Massachusetts
Top attractions to see in Provincetown Massachusetts
Make sure to stop by at the Commercial Street in Ptown and have a cup of coffee at a cafe, or buy souvenirs from local shops. This place is a great spot for your elopement adventure.
10. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
A great romantic getaway can be the White Mountains National Forest in New Hampshire. It stretches through northern NH and falls into Maine, offering the most breathtaking mountain views. The Presidential Range is the highlight of this incredible location and the ceremonies here are epic.
The spectacular views of the mountain range will make your special day more unique and remarkable. If you want to have a winter elopement, prepare for snowy peaks and extreme weather changes.
Where to stay in White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
Top attractions to see in White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
Adventurous couples can have hiking trips here. Presidential Rail Trail is one of the famous hiking trails and stunning destinations in the area, with outstanding mountain views and beautiful waterfalls.
11. Topsmead State Forest, Connecticut
The majestic forest views of Topsmead State Forest will give your intimate wedding ceremony more adventurous vibes. Make sure to have a wedding photographer to capture everything about your special day and later remember how sweet it was to get married in the middle of a forest.
There are various intimate wedding packages for this place that has become one of the favorite spots of couples. You need to have a marriage license to legally get married here.
Where to stay in Topsmead State Forest, Connecticut
Days Inn by Wyndham Torrington
Top attractions to see in Topsmead State Forest, Connecticut
Romantic evening walks with your partner will be so memorable during your elopement. With the beautiful scenery and outstanding landscapes, you will feel like in a fairytale.
12. Kent Falls State Park, Connecticut
Gorgeous waterfalls await in Kent Falls State Park. Not only you will have your wedding ceremony here but also enjoy fabulous views and landscapes opening to you in this special location.
Admiring the views, hiking the trails, and strolling around the park is the greatest option for an adventure elopement. Your intimate wedding celebration can be arranged in Kent Falls State Park at any season.
Where to stay in Kent Falls State Park, Connecticut
Top attractions to see in Kent Falls State Park, Connecticut
The Bull’s Bridge is one of the favorite spots for locals near the area of Kent Falls State Park. You can have an enjoyable walk here with your couple and take beautiful pictures.
13. Gillette’s Castle State Park, Connecticut
What is more romantic than having a castle wedding? New England has wide options for epic wedding ceremonies for anyone. The majestic views and extraordinary destinations await you.
There are no charges to get married in Gilette’s Castle State Park. Just set a date, agree with the wedding officiant and have the most intimate wedding gathering at this marvelous location.
Where to stay in Gillette’s Castle State Park, Connecticut
Quality Inn Old Saybrook – Westbrook
Super 8 by Wyndham Old Saybrook
Top attractions to see in Gillette’s Castle State Park, Connecticut
Take the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry to admire the beauty of the Connecticut River and reach Gillette’s Castle State Park for your romantic getaway.
14. Woodstock, Vermont
Either you want to have a Micro Wedding with the closest family members or an intimate elopement, Woodstock is the best location for secret ceremonies and receptions. Get the most out of Woodstock by strolling around the city, exploring each corner, and discovering marvelous places with your partner.
Where to stay in Woodstock, Vermont
Top attractions to see in Woodstock, Vermont
Visiting the Sugarbush Farm, you will have a chance to try different kinds of cheese and various Pure Vermont Maple Syrop. Don’t miss the chance to try the authentic tastes of Woodstock.
15. Moonstone Beach, Rhode Island
Famous for its epic ocean views, Moonstone Beach in Rhode Island is great for romantic elopements. It has rocky beaches and sand beaches with diverse astounding panoramas you can’t take your eyes off.
Moonstone Beach is one of the best places to elope on, as it is a secluded spot due to the restrictions. It is a great place for an epic elopement in New England.
Where to stay in Moonstone Beach, Rhode Island
Top attractions to see in Moonstone Beach, Rhode Island
Boat tours and fishing are popular among eloping couples in Rhode Island. So if it is something you are interested in, take advantage of the opportunity and try to catch some fish.
16. Fort Adams State Park, Rhode Island
Fort Adams State Park has great views of the Newport Bridge. It is an excellent spot for an elopement in any season. With its rocky coastline, this elopement destination allows you to explore the area and the beautiful scenery of Rhode Island.
Where to stay in Fort Adams State Park, Rhode Island
Top attractions to see in Fort Adams State Park, Rhode Island
Explore the beautiful corners of Newport by walking down the streets and admiring the beautiful views of the forts. There are many beautiful places you can see during your walk.
17. Providence, Rhode Island
Another great place for an intimate elopement ceremony in Rhode Island can be planned in Providence. The romantic atmosphere will allow you to fall in love with your partner even more.
Remember this special day with the photos taken by an elopement photographer who will capture all the special moments of the ceremony.
Where to stay in Providence, Rhode Island
Top attractions to see in Providence, Rhode Island
The State Capitole is the landmark of Providence. You can either have a guided tour here or have a self-exploring experience with your partner.
18. West Chesterfield, New Hampshire
West Chesterfield in New Hampshire is great for couples who are on a budget and want to have a private elopement. There are many affordable elopement packages that you can choose from.
You will have a romantic wedding ceremony surrounded by your closest friends and partner of your life. Eloping to West Chesterfield will be one of the most memorable times of your life.
Where to stay in West Chesterfield, New Hampshire
Blackinton Manor Bed & Breakfast
Top attractions to see in West Chesterfield, New Hampshire
If you like craft beverages, make sure to visit Saxtons Distillery. They are specialized in creating maple liqueurs, which you can try during the guided tour.
How Much does it cost to elope in New England?
Everything depends on your preferences and choices. Any couple can find elopement packages fitting to their budget.
You can spend as low as $400 to have an intimate elopement package for your wedding ceremony. The average price is $600-700, and the packages can go as high as $20000.
The most expensive destination of the region to elope is Vermont. You can get much more affordable packages in New Hampshire.
Related: 10 Affordable Places to Elope in Florida
FAQS about Eloping in New England
Where can I elope in New England?
The options are endless and carry depending on your preferences. There are many places you can have intimate ceremonies no matter you want a private and romantic wedding or adventurous elopement.
How long does it take to get married in Massachusetts?
To get married in Massachusetts, a marriage license is required. It will take 3 days to get the license, which is valid for 60 days after you get it. Give the license to the officiant of the wedding for them to sign and return it to the city clerk before the set time period is up.
Do you need witnesses to get married in Massachusetts?
No, you do not require a witness to get married in Massachusetts.
What are the requirements for eloping in Florida?
First of all, you will have to submit an application for a marriage license at the Florida Clerk of Court. The good news is that because of the COVID-19 pandemic, most counties in the Sunshine State now allow couples to apply through online means. It must be noted though that when choosing the online application option, you will likely undergo a waiting period, which is usually three days long. By enrolling in a premarital preparation course, which lasts for four hours, you can get your marriage license on the same day. But you need to be a Florida resident to do so.
When applying for a marriage license, you will have to produce valid identification. Your driver’s license should do. If you don’t have one, a valid passport or a state ID will suffice. Furthermore, you will need to supply your Social Security numbers. If you are under 17 years of age, you will need parental consent from both your mom and dad, unless the court has granted sole custody to one parent only.
Also, you might be delighted to know that unlike the state of Montana, Florida does not require medical examinations or blood tests for marriage applications.
In Florida, a marriage license is valid for 60 days. That means that your wedding ceremony must be held within the 60-day period.
When is the best time to elope in Florida?
Timing is important when picking an elopement day in Florida. It might be a state known for its abundant sunshine, but you should know that Florida has a hurricane season, and it usually happens between June and October. So if you can, try to avoid dates within that period.
Also, spring break is at its peak during the April and May months. So if you want your special day free of potential college revelers who might crash your party, stay away from those months.
That leaves November through March as the ideal window to hold your ceremony. The safest pick is probably within February. Right around this time, the winter season is at its last stages, but spring hasn’t quite started yet, which means that venues are less likely to be overcrowded.
If you can’t book a date within the November-March window, don’t panic just yet. You can still choose between navigating the hurricane season or doing it during winter. Plan for worst case scenarios in case a storm does come. As for a winter schedule, it can still get cold, so might want to explore indoor options instead.
What do you think are the best places to elope in New England based on the above list? Share with us!
I’m a freelance journalist/writer/content marketer with BA Hons in Journalism.
