So, you’re looking for the best elopement venues in Virginia – I got you!
Choosing to elope in Virginia is perfect (in my humble opinion) because there are dozens of options that suit any budget, group size, and vibe you might dream up.
Whether you’re in love with Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, saving cozy bed and breakfasts on your Pinterest boards (no shame, here’s mine), or looking for that perfect vineyard to host an intimate celebration, Virginia truly has it all.
As your friendly local Virginia elopement expert, I wanted to curate a list of my personal favorites, along with some other gorgeous options that I know any future couples of mine would love!
What is a Venue?
The wedding industry can sometimes feel like we have our own language! A venue in this context refers to any setting where you can host a wedding ceremony and/or reception. While many couples choose to host both their ceremony and reception in the same place, one great thing about eloping or hosting a “micro wedding” is that you can be as creative and flexible as you want – it’s your day!
Outdoor venues here refers to places like state and national parks, local green spaces, or anywhere that is completely out in nature.
An event venue is a place that is designed specifically for hosting celebrations. Some might specialize in micro weddings and elopements, while others might be much larger operations that might offer special packages for smaller groups. While they might not be strictly indoors (many venues have both indoor and outdoor spaces available for couples to choose from), they are a great option if you’re looking for a space professionally curated to host you and your loved ones.
Outdoor versus Indoor Elopement Venues in Virginia
One of the first things I ask my clients to think about when researching the best elopement venues in Virginia is whether an outdoor or indoor venue suits their needs best.
Obviously, there’s the weather factor. With any outdoor venue, we’ll naturally have to factor in keeping an eye on the forecast and developing a rain plan. However, eloping outdoors with a small group (15 or fewer) can actually logistically be easier!
With an indoor venue, you’ll generally want to have a reservation booked since it’ll most likely be in a more controlled area. Perks of an indoor venue is that they generally have easier access to amenities like parking, restrooms, and catering – plus, no rain plan needed!
How Big Should My Elopement Venue Be?
When talking to couples about planning their big day, a frequent question I get is, “How big should my venue be?”
Here are some rules of thumb I share with my elopement couples:
- If you are eloping with less than 15 people, you’re usually in good shape to elope with guests outdoors without making any reservations, etc.
- If you’re celebrating with 15-25 people, I recommend thinking about somewhere to hang out after your ceremony. That might be a rental house, local inn or bed and breakfast, an Airbnb or a VRBO, a nearby brewery, or even someone’s backyard!
- With more than 25 people, a small event venue is probably the best option for you. Most public parks and community spaces will not allow a large group without a reservation or permit, and generally your party will be more comfortable in a venue that’s designed for that headcount.
What Are The Best Elopement Venues in Virginia?
This is a tough question couples often have for me during the planning process! The good and bad thing about Virginia is that there truly is something for everyone. I thought I would put together a list of my personal favorites, along with some spots off the beaten path for your perusal. Let me know what you think!
The Best Elopement Venues in Southern Virginia
Outdoor Spots
- Roanoke Star and Mill Mountain Park, an iconic landmark overlooking the city
- Carvin’s Cove, a scenic reservoir offering waterfront views and peaceful ambiance
- Fairy Stone State Park, with plenty of hiking trails and a lake
- The Blue Ridge Parkway, offering dozens of gorgeous stops overlooking the mountains
Local Favorites
- Rising Silo Brewery in Blacksburg, perfect for a post-adventure brew (featured in Frazier and Austin’s big day!)
- Golden Cactus Brewing in Roanoke, right in the heart of the city
- Valhalla Vineyards in Roanoke, at 2000 ft elevation and amazing views of the valley
Small Event Venues
- Vaughan House in Lynchburg, offering three fairytale spaces straight out of your Pinterest likes
- Belle Garden Estate in Wirtz, a historic colonial manor in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains
- Beliveau Farm Winery in Blacksburg, quaint but elegant
The Best Elopement Venues in Western Virginia
Outdoor Spots
- Breaks Interstate Park, offering sweeping views of Breaks Canyon (one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi) and a bevy of amazing hikes and rock climbing spots
- Grayson Highlands, rugged and beautiful – you might even see wild ponies!
- Whitetop Mountain, the second highest summit in Virginia
- Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34 mile rail-to-trail path beloved by bikers and hikers alike
Local Favorites
- Abingdon Vineyards, a rustic riverside winery
- Southern Gap Outdoor Adventures, offering both accommodations and adventures in the form of ATV Rentals and elk tours.
- Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery in Damascus, for a taste of local spirits
Small Event Venues
- The Martha Washington Inn and Spa in Abingdon, blending history, luxury, and old-fashioned hospitality
- Full Bloom Farm House in Abingdon, a lovingly restored 20th century farm
- Damascus Old Mill Inn in Damascus, a haven for Appalachian Trail hikers
The Best Elopement Venues in Central Virginia
Outdoor Spots
- Skyline Drive, home to many panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains including Timber Hollow Overlook
- Dark Hollow Falls, an iconic waterfall hike in Shenandoah National Park
- Barboursville Ruins, the remains of a brick mansion originally designed by Thomas Jefferson
- Belle Isle State Park in Richmond, an island in the middle of the James River in the heart of downtown
Local Favorites
- Lydia Mountain Lodge in Stanardsville, a rustic lodge minutes away from Shenandoah National Park
- The Market at Grelen, a lush tree nursery and farm market just outside of Charlottesville
- The Poe Museum in Richmond, a quirky tribute to Edgar Allen Poe housed in the city’s oldest residential building
Small Event Venues
- Early Mountain Vineyards in Madison, a breathtaking spot in the heart of Virginia’s wine country
- Historic Polegreen Church outside of Richmond, a beautiful open-air church
- Common House in Charlottesville, a modern social club with uniquely curated spaces
- The Wool Factory in Charlottesville, for folks after a more industrial vibe
The Best Elopement Venues in Northern Virginia
Outdoor Spots
- Huntley Meadows, a birdwatcher’s paradise with easy walking paths around the marsh
- Occoquan Regional Park in Lorton, offering access to both water activities, hiking trails, and a full restaurant
- Morven Park in Leesburg, featuring a historic mansion and sweeping grounds
- Great Falls Park in McLean, with extraordinary views of the Potomac River
Local Favorites
- Dinosaur Land near Leesburg, a kooky roadside attraction with a collection of over 50 life-size dinosaur statues
- Loudon County Courthouse, unexpectedly cute and lined with cobblestones
- Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, 95 acres of lush serenity
- Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester – their walking trails are a gorgeous highlight
Small Event Venues
- Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, an old munitions plant repurposed to house galleries and art studios
- Blue Mountain Lodge in Linden, overlooking the Shenandoah Valley
- 48 Fields Farm in Loudon, a romantic barn venue
The Best Elopement Venues in Eastern Virginia
Outdoor Spots
- First Landing State Park, Virginia’s most visited state park on the Chesapeake Bay
- Sandbridge Beach, a picturesque ocean town
- Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, a coastal haven for a variety of birds, native plants, and wild Chincoteague ponies
Local Favorites
- Miss Molly’s Inn on Chincoteague Island, an iconic local bed and breakfast
- Colonial Williamsburg, probably one of Virginia’s most famous landmarks
- Billsburg Brewery in Williamsburg, waterfront views with beer garden vibes
Small Event Venues
- Culpepper Barn in Virginia Beach, a super cute rustic option
- Saude Creek Vineyards near in New Kent, on a hillside overlooking the Pamunkey River
- The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club in Virginia Beach, a waterfront resort with a bevy of famous past visitors
Are you excited to start planning your Virginia elopement?
If so, let’s get started with crafting a day that feels authentic to y’all! If we haven’t met yet, my name is Cameron (she/her) and I’m a Virginia elopement photographer and partial planner. I’d be absolutely honored to help you plan and document your elopement day!
Reach out to me today to schedule your free consultation call! Let’s turn your dream elopement into a reality. Curious about my packages and pricing options? Head over to my pricing page for more information. I can’t wait to hear from you and help you bring your vision to life!
More Resources for your Virginia elopement
Feeling inspired, but need help with planning? I’ve got you covered! Check out of my elopement planning resources below:
