Eureka Springs Elopement
It has been called “The Little Switzerland of America” (not to be confused with “The Switzerland of America”, also known as Ouray, CO – read my blog post on that charming town here), but most of us just know it as Eureka Springs, Arkansas. This delightful town is home to historic buildings, live music, curiosity shops, art galleries, amazing restaurants, and one of the most unique downtowns I have ever visited. Maybe I am partial to small mountain towns, but they make some of the best elopement destinations.
If you are planning your elopement in Eureka Springs, the Basin Park Hotel is a gorgeous place to start. Pamper yourself at Spa 1905, eat at The Balcony Bar & Restaurant – which features the (self-proclaimed) “best burger in town”, head across the hall to the glass ceilinged game room, then stop by Jack Rabbett’s Whiskey Bar before heading out to explore downtown.
Eureka Springs is a town that loves weddings, that’s for sure. According to the Chamber of Commerce, Eureka Springs has hosted more weddings than anywhere else in the state of Arkansas (and has even been called “The Wedding Capital of the South”) – which explains why everywhere we went, people were cheering for the bride and groom.
As you can see, there is no shortage of unique backdrops for elopement photos in downtown Eureka Springs. Even though I had been to Eureka Springs several times before this visit, I still scouted around beforehand to find my favorite locations – and they did not disappoint.
After getting a standing ovation in front of the Flatiron Building, we made our way up Spring Street, stopping for pictures at this ivy covered staircase. If there is one thing that is not in short supply in Eureka Springs, it is staircases. It is not called “The Stairstep Town” for nothing – it seems like everywhere you look, there is another staircase. There is no doubt in my mind that I would be in the best shape of my life if I lived there (note to self: move to Eureka Springs).
Long story short, Eureka Springs is an amazing place to elope. If you are searching for an eccentric location for your elopement, look no further. Below is a list of some of the coolest places for your elopement in Eureka Springs – and these are all locations I would love to photograph your elopement (click here to send me an inquiry)!
Top Eight Locations to Elope in Eureka Springs
The Crescent Hotel
If spooky is your vibe, getting married in a haunted hotel might just be the choice for you. Elopements may take place anywhere on the hotel grounds not previously reserved.
What I love about it: if you know me, you know I love things with rich histories, and the Crescent Hotel has just about the richest history in Northwest Arkansas.
Cost: $$$
Grotto Spring
A spring hidden inside an underground grotto – nothing could sound more magical and whimsical. But my favorite feature of this location? The inscription etched above the grotto opening: “Esto Perpetua”. It’s Latin for “Let it be perpetual”, and what a beautiful phrase to stand under while saying your marriage vows.
What I love about it: well, fairies get married in grottos, so … enough said.
Cost: N/A
Thorncrown Chapel
This glass chapel is one of my favorite places to visit in Eureka Springs. Surrounded by a lush forest, this glass paned structure is an architectural masterpiece.
What I love about it: it’s hard to describe the feeling that you get as you walk up to the chapel, but the words peaceful, serene, and awe-inspiring come to mind.
Cost: $$$-$$$$
Basin Spring Park
Say your vows with the iconic blue domed stage in the background, or climb up the stairs to say your vows in front of the spring itself.
What I love about it: the location is convenient, not to mention it’s gorgeous and has a great view of downtown.
Cost: N/A
1905 Basin Park Hotel
Elopements may take place in any public area of the hotel grounds not previously reserved – the glass ceilinged game room is one of the most beautiful rooms in the hotel (and it gets some of the best indoor light in the building!).
What I love about it: there’s just something special about beautiful old buildings.
Cost: $$$
East Mountain Overlook
The gazebo perched on this overlook frames the Crescent Hotel, as well as a stunning view of a slice of the Ozark Mountains.
What I love about it: the Fall colors from this overlook are spectacular.
Cost: N/A
Enchanted Forest Resort
Any of the eight unique and secluded cabins tucked away in a fold of the Ozark Mountains would be the perfect setting for your elopement. Some of the cabins have an outdoor hot tub, and all of them have an indoor jacuzzi.
What I love about it: the private setting makes these cabins feel even cozier.
Cost: $$$
Lake Leatherwood City Park
With over 25 miles of hiking trails, you can either choose the spot that feels right for your ceremony before your elopement day or have it be a surprise on your day.
What I love about it: the several locations and trails to choose from.
Cost: N/A
*The photos you see in this post are from a styled elopement I planned in Eureka Springs. Kaitlynn and Mackenzie are a real couple – at the time these photos were taken they were engaged, and I had the honor of photographing their wedding a few months later. If you are interested in seeing the full gallery from this shoot, let me know and I’d be happy to share it with you!
I’m a wife, a dog mom, a foodie, a wanderer, a registered nurse, and a couples/intimate wedding/elopement photographer … and this blog will cover it all! If you enjoyed this post, first of all thank you, and second of all please follow me on Instagram + Facebook to get updates on future blog posts, see sneak peeks of my amazing couples, and so much more! If you have any questions about elopement photography, my journey from nursing to photography, or my time spent as a full-time RVer, drop a comment and I just might write a blog post answering your question (but I definitely will)!
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