If you recently got engaged and love to travel, you may be considering having your wedding in a place you’ve always wanted to go. Destination weddings are on the rise, and there are thousands of spots that can make for the perfect ceremony. In this blog, our PHL Airport members list a few great destinations that are in or are close to the U.S.
Hawaii
No matter which island you choose in Hawaii, you’ll be sure to have a beautiful backdrop of blue-green waters, palm trees, and mountainous terrain. The islands offer plenty to do for guests, including horseback riding, surfing, hiking, snorkeling, and simply relaxing on the beach. Hawaii also boasts warm temperatures year round, which makes it a great spot for a destination wedding.
Aspen
If you’re more of a “mountains” person than a “beach” person, consider getting married in Aspen, Colorado. The Rocky Mountains offer a dramatic setting for your ceremony and the area is full of lodges and resorts to celebrate your special day. Head to the town in the winter for a romantic, snow-capped wedding or during the summer or fall, when it’s less crowded.
Aruba
If you’re worried about rain on your wedding day, opt for a ceremony in arid Aruba. The western Caribbean island sees the least amount of rainfall of any of the islands. With white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and plenty of sunny days, you can book your ceremony knowing it will be a tranquil experience. Plan a wedding on the beach, in a chapel, on a sunset cruise, in a garden, and more.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas is known for its spur-of-the-moment wedding ceremonies, “celebrity” officiants, and an overall feeling of thrill and adventure. No matter what kind of wedding you want to have, you’ll find a spot for it in Vegas. Plus, you and your guests will have plenty to do while you’re there, from gambling to shows to sight-seeing and more. Try to avoid a summer wedding, as the temperatures get pretty hot in the area. Instead, go for spring or fall.
Montreal
If you’re looking for a wedding with romance, class, and glamour, head to Montreal, Canada. This French-speaking city is known for its sophistication and offers everything from bistros to fashion to art and more (plus, it’s much closer than its European cousin!). Head to a historic church, a small French chapel, a lush garden, or a lavish hotel for your nuptials and experience the unique French-Canadian culture.
Lake Placid
This upstate New York location is a great place for a winter wedding. With snowcapped mountains, rustic resorts, and plenty of waterfalls, you’ll enjoy a cozy, romantic experience with abundant photo opportunities. The mountainside village is not as remote as you may think - there are plenty of things to do and see. The area is most popular for weddings in the winter, so try booking yours in April when it’s less crowded but there’s still snow on the ground.
The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys offer everything you could want in a Caribbean island, but it’s right off the coast of the United States. Its location and price point makes it a popular choice for destination weddings, and the 110-mile stretch of islands boasts a distinct laid-back vibe. Have a sunset ceremony in Key Largo, book an island villa in Islamorada, or kick back at a resort in Key West.
San Francisco
This California destination boasts the hustle and bustle of a city, but with the easygoing feel often found on the West Coast. Between the picturesque views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the rolling hills, and the bay itself, you’ll have plenty of spots to choose from for your big day - especially since the weather is warm and temperate all year long. The city’s most rainy month is usually January, but it can be unpredictable.