Top 5 Easiest Places to Elope in the US in 2025
You may have read my in-depth guide outlining every U.S. state and territory with a relatively easy elopement process. (Read it here if you haven’t!) Today, I’m narrowing it down to the top five most popular and easiest places to elope, because these locations keep popping up for a reason.
5. Connecticut
Connecticut is cozy, coastal, and historic, with elegant estates and hideaways that are perfect for couples who want a slow-paced experience close to New York or Boston. What couples end up liking most about Connecticut is the small details, like cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and secluded Victorian gardens.
What Makes Connecticut a Simple Choice:
No witness requirement
No waiting period
Flexible officiant requirements
Perks of Eloping in Connecticut:
Less tourism markup than Acadia or the Catskills
Lower overall cost than places like Vermont, Maine, or New York
Quiet, underrated beaches with no tourism crowds like Cape Cod
3 of My Favorite Connecticut Locations:
Topsmead State Forest
Keeler Tavern Museum
Minnie Island State Park
Full Connecticut guide coming soon!
4. Ohio
Ohio surprises a lot of people because it has all the ingredients for a down-to-earth elopement experience that’s simple, accessible, and affordable, without sacrificing beauty. With over 300 waterfalls and a cute 19th-century influence, Ohio is one of the Great Lakes’ best-kept secrets for planning easy (and beautiful) elopements.
What Makes Ohio a Simple Choice:
No waiting period
No witness requirement
Flexible officiant options
Perks of Eloping in Ohio:
Lower overall cost than destination states like Colorado or California
Minimal tourism markup compared to places like the Smoky Mountains or Sedona
Diverse scenery with waterfalls, caves, forests, and small-town charm
3 of My Favorite Ohio Locations:
Hocking Hills State Park
Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park
Clifton Gorge & Yellow Springs
Full Ohio guide coming soon!
3. Alabama
When people think of geographic diversity, Alabama isn’t the first thing to come to mind. With beaches, mountains, and southern charm, it’s a great option for couples who want something soulful and scenic, without high cost or heavy tourism.
What Makes Alabama a Simple Choice:
No waiting period
No witness requirement
No officiant requirement (self-solemnization)
Perks of Eloping in Alabama:
Lower overall cost compared to Texas, Florida, and other popular southern states.
Year-round mild weather
Diverse geography without the crowds
3 of My Favorite Alabama Locations:
Cheaha State Park
DeSoto State Park
Bankhead National Forest
Read the complete Alabama elopement guide here
2. Florida
Florida takes the #2 spot because it’s one of the most accessible and flexible places to elope in the U.S., with major airports, year-round sunshine, and things to do ‘round the clock.
What Makes Florida a Simple Choice:
No waiting period
No witness requirement
Flexible officiant options
Perks of Eloping in Florida:
Year-round warm weather for outdoor ceremonies
Weekday, off-season, and last-minute availability
Accessible from most U.S. cities without complicated travel
3 of My Favorite Florida Locations:
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
Silver Springs State Park
Bok Tower Gardens
1. Colorado
Coming in at number one, Colorado is high on the bucket list for many couples, and it’s not surprising because of the state’s reputation for adventure, scenery, and easy processing.
What Makes Colorado a Simple Choice:
No waiting period
No witness requirement
No officiant requirement (self-solemnization)
Perks of Eloping in Colorado:
High-altitude elopements with dramatic scenery
Spots that seem remote but require a short walk or drive
The popularity for elopements means fewer challenges
3 of My Favorite Colorado Locations:
San Juan Mountains
Rocky Mountain National Park
Maroon Bells area
Whether you’re into lesser-known spots that leave people asking where you even went, or you want to do a popular destination the easy, budget-friendly way, I’m here to make it happen.
Check out my state guides or reach out below to start planning your elopement.
