12 Best Places to Elope in Washington DC | Your Guide to Unique DC Elopement Locations
Washington, DC, is one of my favorite cities for elopements because it has everything. Iconic monuments, lush gardens, stunning architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and some hidden gems to hide away from the crowds. Whether you want a sunrise ceremony at one of the Memorials, an intimate garden vow exchange, or a day spent wandering museums and historic streets, you can design an elopement that’s uniquely you.
As your DC elopement photographer, I’ve explored so many incredible locations and helped couples plan days that reflect their love stories. Here’s my list of the best places to elope in Washington, DC, plus insider tips on how to make the most of each spot.
Quick Guide to the 12 Best Places to Elope in Washington, DC
- The National Mall
- Union Station & Union Market
- National Gallery of Art
- Enid A. Haupt Smithsonian Gardens & Castle
- The National Zoo
- The Line Hotel DC
- District Wharf
- Spanish Steps & Georgetown
- Rock Creek Park
- The Kennedy Center
- The National Cathedral
- Restaurants & Rooftop Bars
Washington D.C. Elopement Permits
For many of DC’s most popular elopement locations, like the National Mall, monuments, and public parks, you’ll likely need a permit for your ceremony, photography, or both. It might sound like a hassle, but I promise it’s manageable and, as your elopement photographer, I’ll help you every step of the way.
Depending on where you choose, permits are usually issued by the National Park Service or the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. Each spot has its own rules, so it’s important to check the specifics and plan ahead. When we work together, I’ll guide you through the process, handle the details, and make sure you’re covered so you can focus on the fun parts of your day.
If you’re just starting to dream up your DC elopement, you’ll also love my complete guide to how to elope in Washington, DC. Here, I walk you through timing, planning tips, and everything you need to know as you plan your day!
1. The National Mall
The National Mall is an iconic place and one of the best spots in DC to elope, especially if you’re a history lover. You can find all of the famous monuments here, including:
- The Lincoln Memorial and the Reflecting Pool
- DC War Memorial (full guide to elope here)
- Constitution Gardens
- Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Due to crowds, sunrise is the best time for popular tourist locations like the Lincoln Memorial. Why not take portraits at sunrise, go to the courthouse when it opens to make it legal, then kick off your celebrations? Note that you’ll need a permit for filming and photography here.
2. Union Station & Union Market
Architecturally, Union Station has to be one of the most gorgeous elopement locations in Washington DC! Opened in 1907, the soaring archways and columns make a striking and instantly recognizable background for your photos.
Union Market can also make a fun backdrop for wedding photos or even engagement snaps in DC.
3. National Gallery of Art
Imagine strolling hand in hand through the National Gallery, looking at some of your favorite pieces in the collection. Then, saying your vows just outside the gallery before celebrating all afternoon – how fun! If you love art, this would be one of the best DC elopement locations for your big day.
Pro tip: Real flowers aren’t allowed inside, so plan faux bouquets or leave them outside.
Check out my full guide to eloping at the National Gallery of Art.
4. Enid A. Haupt Smithsonian Gardens & Castle
Many visitors to DC are surprised to find that we have an actual castle, but locals know and love this building. It’s a treasured part of the Smithsonian, and it almost feels like a bit of Europe in DC!
It’s stunning year-round, but one of the best times of year to elope at this spot is in spring. The gardens are phenomenal and lush, so I know you would just love an elopement photo session here.
See how magical it can be in this Smithsonian Castle summer micro wedding.
5. The National Zoo
One of the most unique (but awesome) places to elope in Washington DC has to be the National Zoo! It’s also part of the Smithsonian and entry is free, so it would make such a fun place to get married.
Check out the giant pandas, walk through the Cheetah Conservation Center, and simply enjoy a lovely day out as a couple – with an elopement included, of course! Then, there are plenty of great bars and restaurants nearby in Adams Morgan where you could meet friends and family for a low-key reception.
6. The Line Hotel DC
The Line Hotel, also in Adams Morgan, is a stylish and inviting hotel, and bonus: it’s even pet-friendly. If you’re coming from out of town, this would make a great base for your DC elopement.
The hotel also has a really awesome rooftop where you could say your vows – or come up first thing in the morning for sunrise rooftop yoga! Learn more about The Line Hotel here.
7. District Wharf
The District Wharf would be awesome for a summer elopement. Sure, there are lots of cool restaurants, but I also love that you can really make a day of it here: you could rent kayaks, go on a sunset champagne cruise, or try stand-up paddleboarding.
Keep in mind that a lot of events happen here in summer, so please check out the District Wharf events calendar to make sure they don’t interfere with your elopement plans.
8. Spanish Steps & Georgetown
The Spanish Steps are one of DC’s prettiest hidden gems with charming stone steps, a terrace, and a fountain tucked away in the Kalorama neighborhood.
After saying your vows here, Georgetown is right down the road for classic city vibes, cute townhouses, ivy-covered buildings, and the historic waterfront canal. Alternatively, the Foster Collaborative is a modern indoor studio space nearby, perfect for a small elopement celebration.
Get plenty of inspiration and planning tips for your elopement at the Spanish Steps in DC, here!
9. Rock Creek Park
Wondering where to elope in DC that feels like a million miles away from the city? Definitely Rock Creek Park! It’s ideal for more adventurous couples, with trails and creeks to explore. Think bubbling brooks, cute stone bridges, and lots of cycling and hiking paths.
I particularly love Rock Creek for fall elopement photography in Washington DC, since the autumn leaves are so striking here.
10. The Kennedy Center
Modern, elegant, and full of sweeping views, The Kennedy Center is a beautiful choice for couples who want a sleek, architectural look. The clean white marble exterior, sleek design lines, and dramatic columns create a striking look for photos.
My favorite place is the rooftop terrace, though! The rooftop overlooks the Potomac River, Roosevelt Island, and the Georgetown waterfront, so you get the most stunning views! Because it’s a performing arts venue, it’s rarely crowded during weekday mornings and early afternoons, so you can get some privacy.
11. The National Cathedral
With its gothic architecture and sprawling gardens, the National Cathedral feels like something out of a fairytale. A $250 photo permit allows you to take professional photos and host a small ceremony (up to 10 people) on the grounds.
Even without access to the inside, the exterior is breathtaking, and you won’t feel like you’re missing out at all!
If this location is calling your name, read my full guide to eloping at the National Cathedral here.
12. Restaurants and Rooftop Bars
Another fun option is to tie the knot somewhere mentioned above, then celebrate at a restaurant or rooftop bar. If you want to elope with just the two of you, you could then invite family/friends along for the second half of the day to join you. Some restaurants offer private event rentals, or you can reserve a table in advance for smaller groups.
A Few More DC Elopement Locations Worth Mentioning
You really can’t go wrong with any of the elopement ideas above, especially if you prefer something more unique. However, a few more places to consider include:
- The National Portrait Gallery
- The Library of Congress
- Yards Park
- Meridian Hill Park
- The National Arboretum
P.S. DC is also one of the few places where you can marry yourselves, no officiant required! Learn how in my step-by-step guide to self-officiating your wedding in Washington, DC.
Ready to Elope at One of These Stunning DC Elopement Locations?
With any of these options, you can curate a meaningful day (or even a full weekend) to really indulge, celebrate, and relax as part of your elopement. I encourage couples to dig deep when planning their day, thinking about how you’d love to spend your ideal day together, if anything and everything’s on the table. I’m always glad to give recommendations to help you get started, and you can guarantee I’ll be there for every moment of your dream elopement, capturing all the fun, kisses, and emotions on camera! If you have any questions about these unique elopement locations or any others in DC for where to elope in the city, I’m here to help.
I can’t wait to help you craft beautiful memories – let’s do this! Fill out my contact form to get started today!
