The Best Destination Wedding Venues in the U.S.

Whether you dream of exchanging vows atop a mountain or dancing the night away under desert stars, there are countless unforgettable places to say “I do” in the United States. Picking the right destination is all about zeroing in on what’s meaningful to you as a couple: getting married in a scenic locale, cultivating a vacation vibe, offering a five-star experience to your guests—the list goes on. Focusing on the elements that are priorities ensures your wedding always remains pointed toward its own True North.

The next step in the domestic destination wedding planning journey is to find a hotel, resort, or venue that can execute a wedding weekend aligned with those priorities. The best venues not only have ample event spaces, attentive staff, and top-notch catering, but also provide a unique sense of place. After all, tying the knot away from home is an excuse for a couple to showcase their favorite spots and create memories with their loved ones. But remember: Just because a venue is beautiful or a resort has a long list of amenities doesn’t make it foolproof—it’s the responsibility of the couple to ensure that their friends and family are taken care of. Where possible, aim to offer accommodations at a range of budgets and to offset your guests’ travel investment by hosting events throughout the weekend.

No matter the setting—a bustling metropolis or an off-the-grid retreat—gathering together your nearest and dearest for a multi-day celebration guarantees the experience of a lifetime. To kickstart your search, take a look at these top domestic destination wedding venues and start turning dream into reality for your big day.