Top 20 Best Places to Elope in New Hampshire

Ok so I might be biased since New Hampshire is my home.. but there are truly SO many amazing options for your elopement here! I photograph almost all of my weddings and elopements here and after photographing 100+ celebrations all over the state, have compiled a list of some of my favorites. Whether you are looking for a classic new england inn or more adventurous day in the mountains, there is truly something for everyone here!

Before we get into the list, here are some things to consider when choosing your elopement location:

Best times of year to elope in New Hampshire:

First, you’ll need to decide which season you want to elope and start narrowing down date options based on crowds, travel costs, and weather. Each location in New Hampshire is unique, so the best time to elope will depend on where you’re planning your ceremony. Here’s what you should consider:

• Crowds: How busy is your location during different times of the year? Is there a peak season or an off-season? If you want to elope during peak season, are there any less-traveled trails or secluded spots that could provide a more private experience?
• Travel Costs: Would you rather elope during peak season for the best weather and views but pay more for accommodations and flights? Or would you prefer to elope during the off-season to save money, even if it means cooler temperatures or potential weather challenges?
• Weather: What are the seasonal weather patterns at your chosen location? What elevation is it at? When does it snow? Are certain roads or trails closed in the winter? Does your location tend to get strong winds in the spring or heavy rain at certain times of the year?
  
  

🍂 Fall in New Hampshire: September – October is of course the most beautiful time in New England, but with that comes the crowds. In the White Mountains it can get extremely busy and for this reason I only book elopements Monday-Thursday during this peak season. To be honest, the foliage is A LOT better south of the white mountains, since it’s typically green hemlocks and pines there that don’t change color! I always suggest something in central/south NH for the most vibrant colors 🙂

Requirements to Elope in New Hampshire:

• Marriage License:
  • Obtain from any town or city clerk’s office
  • Both parties must be present with valid ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
  • Valid immediately and for up to 90 days. No waiting period
• Permits:
  • Check if your elopement location (parks, scenic spots, etc.) requires a permit
  • Contact venues for any specific regulations
• Officiant: You will need a justice of the peace or officiant to perform your ceremony

20 BEST places to elope in New Hampshire:

Franconia Notch State Park, Franconia

For couples who love adventure and panoramic mountain views! This area is particularly beautiful during peak fall foliage and offers several different spots for photos and ceremony options.

📷 Best Time to Elope: Late September to early October for fall colors (but VERY busy – I only schedule elopements Mon-Thurs at this time) ; summer for beautiful warm weather.
🚗 Accessibility: Options for easy access or short hikes!

⭐ Cathedral Ledge, North Conway – Top Pick! ⭐

A 700ft granite ledge with BEAUTIFUL views of the Saco River Valley and White Mountains. You can drive up to the top, making it a convenient option if you are having guests or don’t want to hike!

📷 Best Time to Elope: Spring through fall.
🚗 Accessibility: Drive-up access, easy for guests.

Omni Mount Washington Resort, White Mountains

For a luxurious mountain elopement, this resort offers one of the best views of mount washington! Perfect for a more all-inclusive wedding day and great if you are including guests.

📝 Permit Info: Omni Mount Washington
📷 Best Time to Elope: Year-round! Summer for greenery, fall for foliage (busier), winter for a setting (they decorate it beautifully around christmas!!)
🚗 Accessibility: Easily accessible by car with on-site accommodations, dining, and amenities

Lake Sunapee, Sunapee

Waterfront views and charming New England scenery! Whether you exchange vows on a beach or even a boat on the lake, this destination provides such a peaceful setting.

📷 Best Time to Elope: Summer for warm lake days; fall for colorful foliage.
🚗 Accessibility: Easy access with plenty of waterfront locations.

Christmas Farm Inn, Jackson

For a charming and cozy New England elopement, the Christmas Farm Inn offers a romantic setting with rustic elegance. Nestled in the heart of Jackson, NH, this historic inn provides a warm and intimate atmosphere.

📝 Venue Info: Christmas Farm Inn
📷 Best Time to Elope: Year-round! Fall offers foliage, winter brings a snowy wonderland, and summer greenery.
🚗 Accessibility: Easily accessible by car with on-site accommodations and amenities for a stress-free celebration.

Odiorne Point State Park, Rye

If you want a coastal elopement, Odiorne Point State Park offers a perfect mix of rocky shorelines, ocean views, and grassy meadows. The rugged coastline and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean create a romantic and intimate setting for a small ceremony. The park also features historic ruins and tidal pools, adding extra charm to your elopement photos.

📝 Permit Info: Special Use Permit

📷 Best Time to Elope: Summer for warm weather, but fall offers fewer crowds.
🚗 Accessibility: Easy walk from the parking area.

Mount Washington Auto Road

Panoramic views of the White Mountains. Exchange vows at one of the scenic pull-offs or the summit, surrounded by 360 mountain views—an incredible option for an intimate ceremony or a celebration with guests!

📝 Permit Info: No permit needed for under 75 guests

📷 Best Time to Elope: Summer for warm weather or fall for foliage (only offered Mon-Thurs in peak season)
🚗 Accessibility: Easy walk from the parking area.

⭐ Inn at Pleasant Lake, New London – Top Pick! ⭐

A more all-inclusive option! Stunning lake views and a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Ideal for couples looking for an intimate celebration with a quintessential new england vibe. Perfect if you want to include guests as well!

📷 Best Time to Elope: Summer for warm, sunny lake views; fall for foliage, winter for cozy vibes.
🚗 Accessibility: Easy access with on-site accommodations and resturant.

Top of the Ridge Farm, New Durham

For a peaceful countryside elopement, the farm offers a charming and intimate setting with fields, mountain views, and rustic elegance. This location is perfect for couples looking to exchange vows in a cozy farm setting with a natural backdrop.

📝 Venue Info: Top of the ridge farm
📷 Best Time to Elope: Spring and summer for gardens; fall for foliage; winter for a cozy, snow-covered landscape.
🚗 Accessibility: Easily accessible by car with on-site accommodations and a private, secluded atmosphere.

The Glen House, The White Mountains

Stunning panoramic views of the Presidential Range in the White Mountains. This elegant yet cozy hotel sits at the base of Mt. Washington. Couples can exchange vows on the outdoor terrace with a mountain backdrop and is another great option if you are including guests!

📝 Permit Info: The Glen House
📷 Best Time to Elope:Fall for peak foliage; winter for a snowy mountain backdrop.landscape
🚗 Accessibility: Easily accessible with on-site accommodations

Concord Audubon, Concord

For a nature-filled elopement, Concord Audubon has peaceful trails, open meadows, and scenic woodland backdrops. This hidden gem is perfect if you want to say your vows in a quiet setting surrounded by wildlife.

📝 Permit Info: NH Audubon Society
📷 Best Time to Elope: Spring and summer for wildflowers; fall for foliage; winter for a quiet, snowy landscape.
🚗 Accessibility: Easily accessible by car with well-maintained walking trails leading to ceremony spots.

A Cozy Airbnb Elopement – New Hampshire

📍 Various Locations Across NH! I can recommend a list of great rentals that allow small celebrations.

Whether it’s a lakefront cabin or a mountainside chalet an Airbnb allows you to create a unique and stress-free experience. You can exchange vows on a private deck overlooking the mountains, beside a peaceful lake, or even by a cozy fireplace in winter. Plus, you can turn your elopement into a romantic getaway with all the comforts of home.

📷 Best Time to Elope: Year-round, depending on your ideal setting (summer lakeside, fall foliage, winter snow, or spring blooms).
🚗 Accessibility: Varies by location, with many options offering easy access and on-site lodging.

Chesterfield Inn, West Chesterfield

For a romantic and elegant countryside elopement, Chesterfield Inn offers a serene setting with gardens, rolling meadows, and charming New England vibe. The Inn offers elopement packages to make your planning stress-free.

📝 Venue Info: Chesterfield Inn
📷 Best Time to Elope: Spring and summer for vibrant gardens; fall for stunning foliage; winter for a cozy, snow-covered retreat.
🚗 Accessibility: Conveniently accessible by car with on-site accommodations and dining, making for a seamless and stress-free celebration.

Kancamagus Highway, White Mountains

For an adventurous elopement, the Kancamagus Highway offers some of the most stunning scenic views in New England. With endless mountains, waterfalls, and secluded forest trails, this highway provides multiple options for your ceremony and photos!

📝 Permit Info: May be required for certain areas—check with the White Mountain National Forest.
📷 Best Time to Elope: Fall for peak foliage (only scheduled Mon-Thurs. during peak season); summer for greenery; winter for a snowy wonderland!
🚗 Accessibility: Easily accessible by car with multiple scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and pull-offs for a variety of ceremony locations.

Follansbee Inn , Sutton

Charming lakeside setting on the shores of Kezar Lake. This historic New England inn provides a cozy, intimate atmosphere with beautiful water views, gardens, and a peaceful, secluded feel. After the ceremony, you can enjoy a canoe ride on the lake, a sunset stroll, or a fireside toast in the inn.

📷 Best Time to Elope: Summer for warm lakefront views; fall for peak foliage.
🚗 Accessibility: Easy access with on-site accommodations.

Dixville Notch, New Hampshire

For a truly secluded elopement, Dixville Notch is a mountainous area that is off the beaten path. This remote location is perfect for if you’re seeking an ceremony away from the crowds, but still in the mountains! Several options for ceremony and photo locations in this area.

📝 Permit Info: May or may not be needed depending on location
📷 Best Time to Elope: Summer for perfect temps or fall for foliage (Mon-Thurs for less crowds.)
🚗 Accessibility: Accessible by car with several scenic spots off the road, or options for short to strenuous hikes.

Mount Kearsarge, Sutton

For an adventurous and scenic elopement, Mount Kearsarge offers 360-degree summit views of lakes, and forests. This location is perfect for couples who want a mountaintop ceremony with in a more secluded area.

📝 Permit Info: Special Use Permit

📷 Best Time to Elope: Late spring through fall for clear views; fall for peak foliage.
🚗 Accessibility: Requires a moderate to strenuous hike, but Rollins State Park offers an auto-road and from there it’s just a 1/2 mile hike.

Lake Winnipesaukee

For a romantic and scenic waterfront elopement, Lake Winnipesaukee offers several different options! Whether you choose a quiet lakeside spot, a private island, or a scenic overlook, this location is perfect for couples seeking a peaceful lakeside setting.

📝 Permit Info: May be required for certain parks or venues.
📷 Best Time to Elope: Summer for warm lake days; fall for stunning foliage.
🚗 Accessibility: Many scenic spots are easily accessible by car, boat, or a short hike, offering a variety of breathtaking ceremony locations.

Crawford Notch State Park, Hart’s Location

Stunning mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and secluded forest trails. Whether you want a short and scenic walk or an adventurous hike, this area provides endless opportunities for a picturesque and unforgettable ceremony in nature.

📷 Best Time to Elope: Summer for greenery; fall for stunning foliage (elopements only offered Mon-Thurs. during peak foliage)
🚗 Accessibility: Varies by location—some spots require a hike, while others are easily accessible.

Clark Lookout, New London, New Hampshire

This one is truly a hidden gem. For a quiet and intimate elopement with lake and mountain views, this lookout is just a short 5 minute walk from the parking lot (slightly uphill but not strenuous). Overlooking beautiful Lake Sunapee, this spot is perfect for couples seeking a simple yet scenic ceremony surrounded by nature.

📝 Permit Info: No permit required for small ceremonies.
📷 Best Time to Elope: Late spring through fall for clear lake views; fall for vibrant foliage.
🚗 Accessibility: A short, easy hike from the trailhead makes this location perfect for couples looking for easily accessible mountain views, south of the white mountains.

Final Tips for Planning Your New Hampshire Elopement

• Check the weather: Weather can change quickly, so be prepared for varying conditions. I always come prepared with clear umbrellas, hand warmers and snacks!!
• Get the proper permits: Some state parks and natural areas require permits for ceremonies or photography.
• Consider weekday elopements: Popular spots can get crowded on weekends, so opt for a weekday for more privacy.

Which of these spots would you choose for your dream elopement? Let me know in the comments! 🙂