10 Best Destination Wedding Locations in the US for 2025

TL;DR: The Top US Destination Wedding LocationsThis article ranks the most sought-after wedding destinations across the United States, from the tropical shores of Maui to the rustic charm of Jackson Hole. For couples seeking an exclusive, private, and nature-rich venue in the Southeast, Fern Oak Estate in Florida stands out as a premier choice, offering luxe lakeside accommodations and unparalleled privacy.

Planning a destination wedding in the US opens up a world of breathtaking possibilities, from sun-drenched beaches and majestic mountains to charming historic cities. But with so many incredible options, how do you choose the one that truly feels like you? This guide unveils the 10 best destination wedding locations in the US, each offering a unique blend of romance, scenery, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're dreaming of a private lakeside celebration at a venue like Fern Oak Estate or a grand affair in wine country, we've curated the top spots to say 'I do.'

Choosing the perfect location is the cornerstone of your wedding journey. It sets the tone, dictates the guest experience, and creates the backdrop for memories that will last a lifetime. A destination wedding isn't just a ceremony; it's a multi-day celebration that allows you and your loved ones to connect, relax, and celebrate in a meaningful way. The right venue provides the canvas for your vision, whether it’s rustic, elegant, adventurous, or serene.

This comprehensive list breaks down what makes each location special, offering practical insights to help you make an informed decision. We will explore key features, ideal seasons, and unique wedding activities for iconic spots like Napa Valley, Charleston, and Aspen. Our goal is to move beyond generic suggestions and give you a clear, actionable guide to finding the setting that perfectly aligns with your style, budget, and guest list. By the end of this article, you will have a definitive short list of the best destination wedding locations in the US to begin your planning adventure.

1. Fern Oak Estate – Luxe Lakeside Venue & Retreat in Pomona Park, FL

If you're looking for an event venue that merges elegance, nature, and flexibility, Fern Oak Estate in Pomona Park emerges as one of the best destination wedding locations in the US. This private, 15-acre sanctuary offers a departure from typical beachfront venues, providing a serene lakeside setting surrounded by majestic oaks and lush fern trails. Perfect for weddings, retreats, or luxury escape weekends, its Southern elegance and complete seclusion make it ideal for an immersive, weekend-long celebration.

The estate’s primary draw is its unparalleled exclusivity. When you book this lakeside luxury event venue in Florida, you gain access to the entire property, including multiple residences like the grand Estate House, the charming Lake House, and the cozy Cottage. This unique setup allows you to comfortably house your wedding party and immediate family on-site, transforming your wedding day into a multi-day luxury retreat. This estate gives you lake-front views, multiple guest residences, and amenities built for both celebration and relaxation.

Crafting Your Lakeside Wedding Experience

The estate’s layout is a blank canvas for your dream event. You can host an intimate welcome bonfire by the spring-fed lake on Friday, hold your ceremony with the water as your backdrop on Saturday, and follow it with a grand, tented reception on the expansive lawn. A farewell brunch on Sunday, complete with kayaking for guests, rounds out the perfect wedding weekend.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Maximize Privacy: Reserve the entire estate to ensure total seclusion for you and your guests.

• Simplify Accommodations: Use the multiple on-site residences to house your inner circle, creating a seamless and intimate atmosphere.

• Leverage On-Site Activities: Plan activities like nature walks along fern trails or kayaking on the spring-fed lake to keep guests entertained.

• Coordinate Transportation: For guests staying off-site, arrange a shuttle service from nearby hotels in Palatka or St. Augustine.

Perfect for couples who value privacy, luxury, and a deep connection to nature, Fern Oak Estate offers a sophisticated and customizable destination. To see how other couples have utilized this stunning space, you can explore the venue's gallery on FernOakEstate.com.

2. Napa Valley, California

For couples envisioning a wedding steeped in sophistication, culinary excellence, and romantic vineyard landscapes, Napa Valley stands as one of the best destination wedding locations in the US. This world-renowned wine region offers an atmosphere of effortless elegance, where rolling hills covered in grapevines serve as a breathtaking backdrop. It is the definitive choice for a refined, epicurean celebration that impresses every guest.

The valley’s primary allure is its seamless fusion of natural beauty with world-class hospitality. Venues range from grand, chateau-style wineries like Domaine Carneros to rustic-chic estates such as Kunde Family Winery, each offering a distinct ambiance. This allows couples to host an entire weekend of events, from a casual welcome dinner at Oxbow Market to a formal reception paired with Michelin-star-worthy cuisine, all within a few miles.

Crafting Your Wine Country Wedding Experience

A Napa Valley wedding weekend is an immersive sensory journey. Imagine a welcome reception featuring local artisan cheeses and charcuterie, followed by a ceremony at golden hour with rows of vines stretching into the distance. The celebration continues with a multi-course dinner where each dish is perfectly paired with the estate’s finest wines, culminating in dancing under the stars. The next day, you can treat your guests to a private wine-tasting tour.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Book Well in Advance: Premier Napa venues often book 12 to 18 months out, especially for popular dates.

• Consider a Mid-Week Wedding: Opting for a Tuesday or Wednesday can significantly reduce venue costs and increase vendor availability.

• Prioritize Transportation: Arrange shuttle services to transport guests between hotels and the venue, ensuring everyone can safely enjoy the wine.

• Budget for Premium Wine: Factor in the cost of high-quality, estate-grown wines, as this is a signature element of the Napa experience.

Perfect for the discerning couple who desires a food-and-wine-centric celebration, Napa Valley delivers an unforgettable, high-end destination wedding. Similar to the way couples select a private winery, you can explore exclusive-use properties by reading about choosing a private estate wedding venue.

3. Charleston, South Carolina

For couples dreaming of a destination wedding steeped in historic Southern charm and romantic elegance, Charleston, South Carolina, is an unparalleled choice. This city offers a captivating backdrop of cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and majestic oaks draped in Spanish moss. Its unique blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and renowned culinary scene makes it one of the best destination wedding locations in the US for an authentically picturesque celebration.

Charleston’s primary draw is its atmospheric variety. Unlike a single resort, the entire city becomes your venue, offering a diverse selection of settings from grand plantations to intimate, art-filled museums. This allows you to craft a wedding experience that feels both timeless and deeply personal, whether you envision a garden ceremony at Magnolia Plantation or a sophisticated reception at the Gibbes Museum of Art.

Crafting Your Southern Charm Wedding Experience

The city's layout is perfect for a multi-event wedding weekend that immerses guests in Lowcountry culture. You could host a welcome reception with fresh oysters on Friday, hold your ceremony under the ancient oaks of Boone Hall Plantation on Saturday, and follow it with a vibrant reception in a historic downtown venue. A farewell brunch featuring classic Southern biscuits on Sunday would perfectly complete the experience.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Book Well in Advance: Prime dates in spring and fall are highly sought after. Secure your venue and key vendors 12-15 months ahead.

• Consider an Off-Season Wedding: For potential cost savings and fewer crowds, explore dates in January-February or the warmer months of June-August.

• Manage Guest Transportation: Downtown Charleston is walkable, but many iconic venues are outside the city. Arrange shuttle services or valet for a seamless guest experience.

• Embrace Local Flavors: Work with your caterer to incorporate Lowcountry cuisine, such as shrimp and grits or she-crab soup, into your menu for an authentic touch.

Perfect for couples who value history, elegance, and a guest-centric experience, Charleston provides a sophisticated and unforgettable destination. To explore the city's offerings, start with the resources at the Explore Charleston tourism website.

4. Sedona, Arizona

For couples dreaming of a dramatic, spiritual, and visually stunning wedding, Sedona stands out as one of the best destination wedding locations in the US. This unique Arizona locale is defined by its majestic red rock formations, vibrant arts scene, and a palpable sense of tranquility. It offers an unforgettable blend of desert luxury and natural grandeur, perfect for couples seeking a Southwest aesthetic with sophisticated, modern amenities.

The primary appeal of Sedona is its breathtaking natural backdrop. The iconic crimson buttes and canyons create a cinematic setting that requires minimal decoration. Venues like Enchantment Resort offer ceremonies perched on a hillside overlooking the landscape, while others provide intimate sanctuary settings. This destination is ideal for couples who want their wedding to feel like both a sacred union and an adventurous escape.

Crafting Your Red Rock Wedding Experience

Imagine a multi-day celebration infused with the spirit of the Southwest. Your weekend could begin with a welcome reception at a venue like the Sedona Rouge Hotel and Spa. The main event, a sunset ceremony at a location like the Desert at Bell Rock, would capture the rocks’ fiery glow. Guests can then transition to an elegant indoor-outdoor reception. The following day, treat your guests to a jeep tour, a guided hike, or a rejuvenating spa day at a world-class facility like Mii amo Spa.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Time Your Ceremony: Schedule your vows for early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and capture the magical "golden hour" light on the red rocks.

• Plan for the Climate: If planning an outdoor event, avoid the peak heat of June through August. Always provide shade structures and hydration stations for guests.

• Book Well in Advance: Sedona's popularity requires booking venues and top vendors 12-15 months ahead, especially for popular dates in the spring and fall.

• Arrange Guest Activities: Enhance the destination experience by organizing group activities like hiking, wine tasting in the Verde Valley, or spiritual vortex tours.

Perfect for adventurous and sophisticated couples, Sedona provides a deeply moving and visually spectacular wedding destination. While it offers a distinct desert charm, those seeking lush, green settings might explore other nature escapes. You can discover more nature-focused venue options to find the perfect fit for your vision.

5. Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

For couples dreaming of quintessential New England charm and sophisticated coastal elegance, Martha's Vineyard stands out as one of the best destination wedding locations in the US. This exclusive island destination combines windswept bluffs, pristine beaches, and historic harbor towns. Its atmosphere of refined heritage provides a timeless backdrop for a memorable and classic wedding weekend.

The primary appeal of Martha's Vineyard is its iconic, picturesque scenery and established wedding tradition. From the dramatic cliffs of Aquinnah to the stately captains' homes in Edgartown, the island offers a multitude of stunning ceremony and reception sites. This variety allows couples to craft a celebration that feels both deeply personal and quintessentially American, steeped in nautical tradition and coastal beauty.

Crafting Your New England Wedding Experience

Imagine a ceremony on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic, with a historic lighthouse as your witness, followed by a chic, tented reception at a harbor-side yacht club. The island’s distinct towns, like Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven, each offer unique settings, from historic churches to lush farmsteads. A welcome clambake on Friday and a farewell brunch on Sunday can complete an immersive New England experience for your guests.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Book Well in Advance: Prime summer dates can book up 18-24 months ahead. Consider the shoulder seasons of May or September for better availability.

• Streamline Transportation: Pre-arrange ferry blocks or charter information for guests. On-island, consider coordinating trolleys or shuttles between venues.

• Secure Accommodations Early: Guest lodging is limited and books quickly. Planning this is crucial, so learn more about how to choose the perfect wedding venue accommodation to ensure a smooth process.

• Embrace the Theme: Incorporate classic New England and nautical elements like navy and white color palettes, rope details, and local seafood to create a cohesive aesthetic.

Perfect for couples who appreciate timeless elegance, coastal scenery, and a destination with a rich heritage, Martha's Vineyard offers an unforgettable, upscale wedding setting. To see how others have celebrated on the island, you can explore the work of local planners and photographers featured in publications like Martha's Vineyard Island Weddings.

6. Big Sur, California

For couples captivated by dramatic, untamed beauty, Big Sur offers one of the most breathtaking destination wedding locations in the US. This rugged stretch of California’s central coast is defined by its dramatic cliffs, redwood forests, and panoramic ocean vistas. It’s the ultimate choice for couples seeking an intimate, bohemian, and nature-centric celebration far from traditional ballrooms.

The primary allure of Big Sur is its awe-inspiring scenery, which becomes the main decor for your event. Venues like Post Ranch Inn offer ceremonies on cliff edges with endless ocean views, while locations within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park provide a majestic forest setting. This destination is less about large-scale production and more about creating a profound experience that honors the natural landscape.

Crafting Your Coastal Wedding Experience

A Big Sur wedding is an immersive adventure. Imagine a welcome reception with locally sourced wine and cheese as the sun sets over the Pacific. Your ceremony could take place on a secluded bluff, followed by an intimate dinner at a rustic-luxe venue like Ventana Big Sur. The weekend can be filled with guest activities like hiking among ancient redwoods or exploring hidden coves.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Book Well in Advance: With very few venues, it is crucial to book at least 18 months ahead, especially for popular dates.

• Keep It Intimate: Plan for a guest list of 50-75 people maximum to align with venue capacities and preserve the intimate vibe.

• Hire a Local Planner: A planner experienced with Big Sur’s unique logistics, permits, and vendor network is essential for a smooth event.

• Prepare for Weather: The coastal weather is unpredictable. Have a solid contingency plan for wind, fog, or rain, even in summer.

Perfect for adventurous couples who prioritize stunning photography and a deep connection to nature, Big Sur delivers a wedding experience that is both wild and profoundly romantic. For inspiration, see how photographers capture its beauty by searching for Big Sur weddings on social media.

7. Scottsdale, Arizona

For couples dreaming of a sophisticated desert oasis wedding, Scottsdale, Arizona stands out as one of the best destination wedding locations in the US. This vibrant city masterfully blends luxury resort living with the dramatic beauty of the Sonoran Desert. It offers a unique combination of world-class amenities, stunning natural backdrops, and consistent sunshine, creating an unforgettable setting for a chic and memorable celebration.

Scottsdale's main appeal is its concentration of high-end resorts and exclusive clubs, like The Phoenician and Four Seasons Scottsdale, which specialize in creating lavish wedding experiences. These venues provide not just breathtaking ceremony sites with mountain views but also comprehensive services, including championship golf courses, award-winning spas, and gourmet dining. This allows you and your guests to enjoy a full-service vacation alongside the wedding festivities.

Crafting Your Desert Chic Wedding Experience

Imagine a weekend that begins with a welcome cocktail party at a stylish rooftop bar overlooking Camelback Mountain. Your ceremony takes place at sunset, with the desert landscape bathed in golden light, followed by an elegant poolside reception under the stars. The next day, guests can unwind with a round of golf, a rejuvenating spa treatment, or explore Scottsdale's renowned art galleries and upscale shopping districts.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Book Well in Advance: Reserve your venue and vendors 12-15 months ahead, especially for the popular spring and fall seasons.

• Time Your Ceremony: Schedule outdoor ceremonies for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat and capture the best light.

• Embrace the Theme: Incorporate desert-inspired elements like succulents, warm earth tones, and local textiles into your decor for an authentic feel.

• Plan Group Activities: Arrange a golf tournament, guided desert hike, or a group spa day to give your guests a taste of the Scottsdale lifestyle.

Perfect for couples who want a polished, resort-style wedding with a distinct Southwestern flair, Scottsdale delivers a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty. To see how these desert venues come to life, you can explore the wedding portfolio on the Four Seasons Scottsdale website.

8. Aspen, Colorado

For couples dreaming of alpine elegance and sophisticated adventure, Aspen stands out as one of the best destination wedding locations in the US. This world-renowned mountain town offers a breathtaking blend of dramatic peaks, luxury resorts, and a vibrant cultural scene. It delivers an unforgettable high-altitude experience, perfect for couples who want their celebration to feel both glamorous and grounded in natural beauty.

Aspen's primary allure is its year-round appeal and impeccable service standards. Whether set against a backdrop of golden fall foliage or snow-covered peaks, the scenery is consistently spectacular. The town is home to world-class venues, from exclusive mountain clubs to five-star hotels and historic mansions. This variety allows couples to host anything from an intimate mountaintop ceremony to a grand ballroom reception, all within a premier luxury destination.

Crafting Your Mountain Wedding Experience

Your Aspen wedding can be a multi-day affair filled with unique mountain activities. Host a welcome reception at an art gallery downtown, followed by a mountaintop ceremony accessed by a scenic gondola ride. A sophisticated reception at a venue like The Ritz-Carlton or a private club can follow. Conclude the weekend with a farewell brunch and a guided hike or fly-fishing excursion for your guests, fully immersing them in the Aspen lifestyle.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Book Well in Advance: Reserve your venue and key vendors 18-24 months ahead, especially for popular summer or winter dates.

• Plan for Altitude: Advise guests to hydrate well before and upon arrival. Consider welcome bags with water bottles and oxygen canisters.

• Embrace the Seasons: Choose summer (June-September) for lush greenery and pleasant weather or winter for a magical snowy wonderland.

• Arrange Guest Logistics: Coordinate with an experienced local planner to manage transportation and lodging, as options can be limited and dispersed.

9. Savannah, Georgia

For couples dreaming of a wedding steeped in Southern romance and historic elegance, Savannah, Georgia, stands out as one of the best destination wedding locations in the US. The city's enchanting character is defined by its moss-draped oaks, cobblestone streets, and impeccably preserved antebellum architecture. It offers a timeless and deeply romantic backdrop that feels both grand and intimate, perfect for a celebration rich in tradition and charm.

Savannah’s main appeal is its unique blend of breathtaking scenery and palpable history. Unlike more contemporary destinations, a wedding here feels like stepping into a classic novel. From the iconic fountain at Forsyth Park to the quiet grandeur of its historic squares, the city itself becomes an integral part of your wedding story, providing a stunning visual narrative for you and your guests.

Crafting Your Historic Southern Wedding

The city offers a diverse array of settings to bring your vision to life. Imagine a morning ceremony under the sweeping oaks of Forsyth Park, followed by a cocktail hour in one of the 22 manicured historic squares. A grand reception could unfold within the walls of a preserved venue like The Marshall House or a private estate like Magnolia Place, allowing your celebration to move seamlessly through Savannah’s most beautiful landmarks.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Book in Advance: Secure your preferred venues and vendors 12-15 months out, especially for popular spring and fall seasons.

• Embrace the Off-Season: Consider January-February or June-August for potential discounts and greater availability.

• Incorporate Local Flora: Use Spanish moss and magnolias in your floral arrangements to beautifully complement the city’s natural aesthetic.

• Plan Guest Experiences: Arrange guided walking tours of the historic district or riverboat cruises to entertain guests throughout the wedding weekend.

Perfect for couples who desire a wedding with classic beauty, rich culture, and romantic ambiance, Savannah offers a destination that is as memorable as it is picturesque. Explore the city's unique venues at VisitSavannah.com.

10. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

For adventurous couples dreaming of a wedding with dramatic mountain backdrops and rugged Western elegance, Jackson Hole stands out as one of the best destination wedding locations in the US. This iconic valley offers an unparalleled blend of pristine wilderness, the majestic Teton Range, and upscale resort amenities. It is the perfect destination for couples who want to combine authentic outdoor experiences with refined, memorable celebrations.

The primary appeal of Jackson Hole is its breathtaking natural stage. Venues range from luxury lodges with panoramic mountain views to rustic ranches offering authentic Western charm. This variety allows you to host everything from an intimate ceremony at the base of the Tetons to a grand reception at a waterfront lodge, creating a deeply personal and visually stunning event for you and your guests.

Crafting Your Mountain Wedding Experience

Imagine a multi-day celebration that embraces the spirit of the West. You could start with a welcome barbecue at a rustic cabin, followed by a Saturday ceremony at a scenic overlook like those offered at Spring Creek Ranch. A sophisticated reception at Jackson Lake Lodge can follow, with guests dancing under the stars against the backdrop of the mountains. Conclude the weekend with a guided group hike or a scenic float trip down the Snake River.

Actionable Planning Tips

• Book Well in Advance: Prime venues and top vendors are often booked 18-24 months out, especially for the peak summer season (June-September).

• Prepare for Altitude: Advise guests to hydrate well and pace themselves upon arrival to acclimate to the higher elevation.

• Prioritize Transportation: Arrange shuttles or group transportation, as venues and accommodations can be spread out and ride-sharing services are limited.

• Hire Local Expertise: A Jackson Hole-based wedding coordinator is invaluable for navigating local vendors, weather contingencies, and high-altitude logistics.

Perfect for couples who crave both adventure and sophistication, Jackson Hole offers a majestic setting for a truly epic celebration. Explore some of the region's stunning lodges and cabins to understand the full potential of a wedding venue with onsite lodging.

🏡 Why Choose Fern Oak Estate?✔ Multiple guest residences (Estate House, Lake House, Cottage, Loft)✔ Spring-fed lake, oak forest, fern trails✔ Luxury amenities: gym, game room, fireplaces✔ Private, scenic, yet accessible to major cities✔ Ideal for weddings, retreats, family & corporate events👉 View Details & Booking Options

Choosing Your Unforgettable Wedding Destination

The journey to your wedding day is just as important as the destination itself, and this guide to the best destination wedding locations in the US has showcased a breathtaking spectrum of possibilities. From the sun-drenched vineyards of Napa Valley to the rugged, dramatic coastline of Big Sur, and from the historic cobblestone streets of Charleston to the spiritual red rocks of Sedona, each location offers a unique and unforgettable backdrop for your vows. You've explored iconic mountain retreats in Aspen and Jackson Hole, charming coastal enclaves like Martha's Vineyard, and culturally rich Southern cities like Savannah.

The common thread connecting these premier destinations is their ability to transform a wedding day into a multi-day immersive experience. They are more than just pretty places; they are atmospheres. They invite your guests to travel, connect, and celebrate in a setting that feels both epic and deeply personal. Choosing the right one is less about finding a perfect place and more about finding the place that perfectly reflects your story as a couple.

Whether you're planning your dream lakeside wedding, a family reunion, or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Fern Oak Estate delivers on every front — luxury, privacy, natural beauty, and flexible event spaces. It truly ranks among the best lakeside destinations in Florida.

FAQ: Best Destination Wedding Locations in the US

What is the most popular destination wedding location in the US?

While popularity shifts, locations like Napa Valley, CA, and Charleston, SC, consistently rank high for their unique blend of scenery, hospitality, and activities. For a more private, exclusive experience in the Southeast, a venue like Fern Oak Estate in Florida is becoming a top choice for its lakeside luxury and all-in-one accommodations.

How much does a destination wedding in the US cost?

Costs vary dramatically based on location, guest count, and season. A wedding in a high-demand area like Aspen or Napa Valley can be significantly more expensive than one in Savannah. The key is to find a location that aligns with your budget while still delivering the experience you envision.

What are the benefits of choosing a private estate for a destination wedding?

Choosing a private estate like Fern Oak Estate offers unparalleled privacy and flexibility. You can host multiple events (rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, brunch) in one location, accommodate your wedding party on-site, and have complete control over the vendor selection and timeline, creating a truly bespoke wedding weekend.