Hidden Gems for Elopements & Small Weddings in the DMV
Your wedding day should feel like you. I know how special it is to find a place that feels like it was made for you. A backdrop that reflects your love, your story, and the way you want to remember this day forever. Hopefully every couple is able to find a place that resonates with their hearts. Whether that's standing on a mountain ridge, whispering vows in a secret garden, or running hand-in-hand up the marbled steps of a historic courthouse, the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) is brimming with breathtaking, off-the-beaten-path spots to make your elopement or small wedding unforgettable.
As a transplant still relatively new to the area, it’s been an absolute joy discovering these hidden gems. If you're still searching for that perfect spot, I truly hope that for couples exploring location and venue options, this can be a helpful starting point.
D.C. Elopement & Wedding Venues
National Arboretum
If you're a fan of sweeping gardens, hidden groves, a bonsai exhibit, and those iconic Corinthian columns, the National Arboretum is a showstopper. It’s a dream for a romantic, nature-centered elopement. You can have a true “just us” moment in a quiet corner of the gardens or invite a small group for an intimate ceremony. Permits from the Friends of the National Arboretum are required for weddings, but trust me, the lush backdrops are worth every penny. Spring and fall? Absolute perfection.
Meridian Hill Park
Meridian Hill has this cool, European feel with its cascading fountain and historic architecture. It’s urban but peaceful and ideal for couples who want a sophisticated but laid-back vibe. Weekday mornings are best for avoiding crowds. Permits are usually around $200, and the park suits both micro-weddings and simple elopements, but no more than 50 guests.
Dumbarton Oaks Gardens
This spot is a secret garden right in the city. Made tiktok famour for it’s Bridgerton-esque wisteria, stone pathways, and tucked-away terraces, it feels like a fairytale. Permits start at $1,200 per hour, and it's best for elopements or super small weddings. I’d say under 10 guests. Spring and fall are peak seasons.
National Portrait Gallery
For artists, this is such a cool, unconventional venue. You can say your vows surrounded by iconic works of art or in the gorgeously lit atrium. It's best for micro-weddings and can accommodate a variety of guest counts, depending on which space you choose. Permits vary, so check with their events team, but it's worth it for the unique ambiance.
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
If water lilies and lotus blooms sound like your dream wedding backdrop, Kenilworth is a must-see. The summer bloom (July-August) is magical, but all seasons have their own charm. Elopements would work best here, with permits needing to be obtained through the National Capitol Region Program.
Union Station
Hear me out because Union Station might not be the first place you think of, but its grand architecture and hidden corners make for a surprisingly lovely elopement spot. Best for just the two of you, it adds a cool, urban vibe to your day.
The Spanish Steps
A tucked-away gem in Kalorama, the Spanish Steps are a romantic, European-style setting for a quiet outdoor elopement. No permit needed for small ceremonies, and it’s stunning year-round.
National Cathedral Gardens
A hidden oasis of peace and beauty, the National Cathedral Gardens are perfect for couples seeking a serene, classic backdrop for their vows. With lush gardens, winding paths, and Gothic architecture towering nearby, it’s a dreamy mix of nature and history. A permit for elopements photographs in the garden will start at $250.
The Kennedy Center
Overlooking the Potomac River, the Kennedy Center offers a sophisticated, minimal, artsy ambiance. Imagine exchanging vows on the rooftop terrace with stunning views of the D.C. skyline or in one of its intimate indoor spaces. It’s perfect for couples who love culture and elegance. Permits vary based on which space you choose, but it’s literally a showstopper.
National Gallery of Art
Art lovers, this one’s for you. The National Gallery’s sculpture garden or grand atriums create an unforgettable backdrop for your ceremony. Whether it's an elopement or a micro-wedding, the blend of art and architecture makes it a timeless spot. Be sure to contact their events team for permits and guest capacity.
Swann House
A charming historic mansion in Dupont Circle, Swann House combines vintage elegance with cozy intimacy. It’s ideal for small ceremonies and elopements, with beautiful rooms, a grand staircase, and a garden patio. The Swann House can hold groups up to 75. Perfect for couples who want old-world, old-money type of venue.
The Line Hotel
A blend of historic architecture and modern design, The Line Hotel offers a stylish, unconventional backdrop for your intimate wedding. Housed in a 110-year-old church, the hotel features breathtaking details from vaulted ceilings to cozy nooks. This hotel is a good fit for couples wanting a unique, city-chic elopement and has spaces that accommodate weddings both small and large
The Tabard Inn & Restaurant
The Tabard Inn feels like stepping into a vintage dream. Its quirky, historic, and full of charm. With its cozy fireplaces, antique decor, and ivy-clad patio, it’s a magical spot for an intimate wedding. Their space hosts up to 70 Guests. Perfect for couples who love a touch of old-world romance.
The Wells
For a sleek and sophisticated elopement, The Wells cocktail bar on Capitol Hill offers a stunning blend of minimalist design and inviting warmth. The modern yet cozy atmosphere suits couples looking for an elegant but understated space. It’s a fresh, contemporary option for a chic celebration.
The Riggs Hotel
Formerly a historic bank, The Riggs Hotel is both grand and modern. Think marble floors, art deco accents, and intimate spaces for private ceremonies. The rooftop views and stylish design make it a prime spot for a luxurious yet small wedding.
Lyle Hotel
Soft, warm tones and artful interiors make Lyle Hotel a dreamy choice for a minimalist wedding. Located in Dupont Circle, it offers intimate spaces and a chic aesthetic. I think it is the perfect place for modern couples who want a stylish but simple celebration.
The Mansion on O Street
If you want a wedding that’s incredibly unique and absolutely unforgettable, The Mansion on O Street is a wonderland of hidden doors, themed rooms, and eclectic decor. It’s bold, whimsical, and perfect for couples looking for an offbeat experience for their celebration.
Virginia Elopement & Wedding Venues
Great Falls Park
For the adventurous souls, Great Falls is stunning. The Maryland side gives you rocky cliffs and dramatic views of the falls. The Virginia side provides a different, but equally magnificent landscape and has easier access to overlooks if accessibility is a concern. Either way, it’s best for small ceremonies (up to 20 guests) and does require a $90 special use permit. Spring and fall are unbeatable, but a winter wedding here would have a wild beauty of its own.
Shenandoah National Park
If you're all about mountain views and golden sunsets, Shenandoah is the place. You can hike to a quiet overlook or find a more accessible spot along Skyline Drive. Permits are usually $150 at this National Park, and guest capacity varies depending on location, but elopements and intimate gatherings are perfect here. Fall is breathtaking, but spring wildflowers? Also incredible.
The Inn at Little Washington
Want a small wedding with a Michelin-starred twist? This charming, ultra-luxurious inn is about as romantic as it gets. It has both dreamy gardens AND gourmet food. I would say that The Claiborne House, Patty O’s Cafe, or The Colonial Ballroom would be most charming for a micro-wedding and because it is indoors the space works year round. The Inn is worth it if you are seeking an intimate and memorable experience for you and your guests.
The Clifton
Nestled in the heart of wine country, The Clifton in Charlottesville combines elegance with a relaxed, countryside vibe. It’s perfect for micro-weddings (20-40 guests) but can accomodate many more and has both indoor and outdoor options. I think a late summer sunset wedding would be absolutely unreal.
Goodstone Inn
The rolling hills of Middleburg, historic charm, and a touch of luxury. Goodstone is a dream for intimate gatherings (up to 50 guests), and the gardens are stunning in both spring and summer. Perfect for couples who want something classic yet cozy.
Luray Caverns
For something truly unique, why not get married inside a cave? Luray Caverns offers a dramatic, otherworldly setting for couples aiming for something different. It works best for elopements or tiny ceremonies. It does look like pricing will vary depending on the size of your event.
Pope Leighy House
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Pope Leighy is an architectural masterpiece. It’s perfect for couples who appreciate art and architectural design, with its organic lines and tranquil wooded surroundings. A unique, serene setting for an elopement or small group. Pricing for this will likely range from $6,500 to $7,500.
Vaughan House
Tucked away in the countryside, Vaughan House radiates rustic, fairytale charm and cozy elegance. Ideal for intimate ceremonies, the venues natural beauty and quiet ambiance create a relaxed and magical atmosphere. It is my dream to film an elopement here, so please do let me know if you are considering your wedding at the Vaughan House.
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens offers a whimsical and romantic setting for your elopement. Spanning 95 acres, the gardens feature enchanting landscapes, serene ponds, and vibrant flora, which would be a picturesque backdrop for your special day. They do have an atrium which can accommodate larger wedding parties, but if you envision an intimate ceremony amidst blooming flowers is a lovely choice.
Maryland Elopement & Wedding Venues
Patapsco Valley State Park
This one’s a hidden treasure for nature lovers. With waterfalls, swinging bridges, and serene trails, it’s a cozy and earthy spot for a simple elopement or micro-wedding. Many locations in the park do not require permits, which makes this a great option for couples seeking something simple and accessible.
Annapolis Courthouse
For couples wanting something simple, the Annapolis Courthouse is classic and intimate. You can exchange vows, then wander the charming streets for photos. No frills, but all heart. After the ceremony you can meander through the town down to the waterfront where you can celebrate by setting sail and enjoying fine dining.
Assateague Island National Seashore
For couples dreaming of a coastal elopement, Assateague Island offers pristine beaches, wild ponies, and breathtaking ocean views. This unique location provides a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for a seaside ceremony.
Looking for an DMV Elopement Videographer?
If you’re considering an intimate elopement, I would love nothing more than to explore and document love stories in these incredible places with you. Check out my wedding videography packages here. Wherever your love story leads, I’m here to capture it in a way that feels as magical as the moment itself.
