Best Spooky Places to Have an Elopement in the U.S.
Looking for an unforgettable, spine-tingling twist on your wedding day? If you and your partner are lovers of all things eerie, gothic, or haunted, consider a spooky elopement location to say your vows. The United States is full of atmospheric, ghost-filled, and dramatically moody destinations perfect for couples who want their “I do” to be as chilling as it is romantic. Here are the best spooky places to have an elopement in the U.S.—all perfect for hauntingly beautiful wedding photography.
The Stanley Hotel - Estes Park, Colorado
Famous for inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining, The Stanley Hotel is one of the most iconic haunted wedding venues in the country. Nestled in the Colorado Rockies, this historic hotels offers a stunning (and spooky) backdrop for an elegant elopement with ghostly glamour.
New Orleans, Louisiana
From its historic cemeteries and moss-draped oak trees to voodoo lore and haunted mansions, New Orleans is a dreamy elopement destination for the macabre at heart. Eloping in a French Quarter courtyard or in front of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 makes for ethereal, gothic wedding photos.
Salem, Massachusetts
What better place for a witchy elopement than Salem? Known for the infamous witch trials, Salem’s cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and spooky energy create an unmatched atmosphere for a darkly romantic ceremony.
Eastern State Penitentiary - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
For bold couples, this historic prison-turned-tourist-attraction offers a gritty and unique location for dramatic elopement photos. Its crumbling cell blocks and eerie silence make it one of the most offbeat elopement backdrops in the U.S.
The Redwoods - Northern California
While not haunted per se, the towering redwoods and misty forests of Northern California exude an enchanted, otherworldly vibe perfect for couples who want an elopement that feels both spiritual and slightly supernatural—especially at twilight.
Tips for Planning a Spooky Elopement:
Work with a photographer who loves dark, moody, or gothic aesthetics. They’ll help capture the full vibe.
Plan your ceremony around golden hour or even twilight for the best eerie light.
Consider vintage, Victorian, or Halloween-inspired wedding attire to match the ambiance.
Secure permits or approvals if you’re planning to shoot in historic or restricted locations.
Whether you’re drawn to ghost stories, witchy vibes, or atmospheric landscapes, these spooky elopement spots offer a creative and meaningful way to tie the knot. If you’re looking for a photographer who thrives in moody light and epic backdrops, I’d love to help bring your haunting vision to life.
Contact me to start planning your eerie elopement adventure!
