Planning a wedding in 2021 can be filled with uncertainty – so why not elope for now? If you live in Kentucky, you have even more reason to elope than most, because Kentucky is home to so many gorgeous locations. In this article we will talk about just a few of the infinite natural wonders you can find right here in the Bluegrass state.
For couples in Louisville, Lexington and Bowling Green, we hope to provide options within driving distance! For all of the locations below, we recommend visiting a day early to choose your perfect spot within the park or site. We chose each spot for its vastness and variety of views.
If you have suggestions for more places to add to this article, or if you’d like for us to help you research a special location for YOUR dream elopement, please get in touch with us! We can’t wait to hear from you.
Bernheim Research Forest and Arboretum
With 16,000 acres of forest, lake views and a treetop canopy, Bernheim is full of glorious options for an elopement. Bernheim is home to collections of native Kentucky trees and plants. You’ll also find an edible garden with views of rolling hills and public art sculptures throughout – including a temporary installment of wooden giants. The forest is located just south of Louisville.
Carter Caves State Resort Park
An eastern Kentucky wonder near Olive Hill and Grayson, Carter Caves includes 33 miles of trails to explore for possible elopement sites. Kentucky’s rock formations shine here with arches, bridges and cliffs. There’s even the 45-acre Smoky Lake. Three Bridges Trail looks promising – it takes you through some caverns, under arches and includes overlooks and rock formations.
Columbus-Belmont State Park
Where in Kentucky can you catch a view of the Mississippi river? Columbus-Belmont state park! We like this spot because of the river, a cute little gazebo and an overall humble vibe. It’s accessible and low-key if you’re wanting to host a small group or hoping to avoid a long hike.
Cumberland Falls State Park
Perhaps the most impressive waterfalls in all of Kentucky can be found in the deep South at Cumberland Falls in Corbin. Elope underneath a “Moonbow” or lunar rainbow if you plan your timing right! We think it’s incredible that light refracts this way in response to the full moon – so this is a great elopement location for anyone who studies the cosmos.
Grand Rivers Walking Trail and Beach
Located on Kentucky Lake, this walking trail provides classic waterfront views for a sweet elopement ceremony. There’s views of a lighthouse, pavilion and pier and you can stop anywhere you like. This trail is near the Land Between Lakes Recreation Area, so there’s lots to do nearby for nature lovers. We love this location for an accessible elopement because the trail is paved.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
Jenny Wiley is famous for being home to elks! We also love the May Lodge and Dewey Lake. For anyone considering an indoor elopement but still wanting those incredible mountain views, May Lodge is worth considering. It’s nestled in the pines and has big windows overlooking the mountains.
Laurel River Lake
Located in Daniel Boone National Forest, Laurel River Lake is one of the cleanest and deepest lakes in all of Kentucky. People even scuba dive here! Spend some time wandering because there are piers, rocky streams and clear waterfront views for miles.
Natural Bridge at Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge has seemingly endless arches, bridges, overlooks and wonders so it’s hard to choose just one, but we chose this one because it is so big and well known. At the very least, the natural bridge is a place to start from when considering an overlook elopement at Red River Gorge. We love the natural bridge and nearby Lover’s Leap at sunrise and sunset especially, for perfect dreamy lighting.
Pine Mountain Overlooks
Four overlooks along Highway 119 between Whitesburg and Cumberland make up the Pine Mountain Overlooks. Each of the sturdy, concrete structures offers a spectacular view of Eastern Kentucky mountains, and can be reserved for a small fee. These are amazing views from thousands of feet elevation, easily accessible from parking area.
Shaker Village
For 105 years, the third largest Shaker community in the states lived here in Kentucky. Their buildings are carefully crafted and historically preserved. On Shaker Village’s 3,000 acres, you can find hills, trees, rivers, animals and all sorts of curiosities. We appreciate the Shaker spirit, and the thoughtful minds that thrive here.
That’s all for now!
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about some of the fascinating places to elope in Kentucky. Don’t be a stranger! Honestly, it’s so much fun helping couples find their dream location, and Kentucky has so much to offer. Send us a message if you need any help finding the way.
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Photos can be especially meaningful when you elope. Let us help you with the planning! Send a message and we’ll start scheming.