Are you looking for a unique, intimate setting in Scottsdale to exchange your vows? Say goodbye to traditional wedding venues and “I do!” to memorable spaces guaranteed to elicit a few oohs and aahs.
Whether you’ve always dreamt of a resort ceremony, you’re picturing an outdoor adventure, or you want a totally unexpected experience that will leave your guests speechless, Scottsdale has something for every couple. Here are 15 unique places to elope in Scottsdale.
Scottsdale Resorts
From elegant ceremonies to casual pool parties, Scottsdale resorts cater to every imaginable type of elopement.
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
The Princess even coined a term for its elopement and intimate wedding offerings: “minimony.” Infinitely customizable, Minimony packages include a 20-person ceremony, use of resort grounds for photos, and complimentary valet for guests.
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, a Gurney’s Resort & Spa
For a truly unforgettable and intimate elopement, treat yourself to a private villa at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain (pictured). Villas offer stunning views of Camelback, outdoor living spaces, and up to four bedrooms, plus come with catering options.
The Hermosa Inn, a boutique hideaway
Historic and tucked-away, Hermosa Inn is ideal for small weddings. The impeccably maintained property has loads of charm, plus it has an exclusive, hidden-gem feel. You’ll also have the opportunity to dine and celebrate at renowned LON’S, the onsite restaurant.
Bespoke Inn Scottsdale
The definition of a hidden gem, Bespoke Inn is a 10-room boutique hotel nestled downtown. Rent the entire property for your elopement or book a bespoke suite, including a 2-story apartment. Take full advantage of the 43-foot saltwater lap pool and dining at Virtu Honest Craft.
Hotel Valley Ho
This beautifully restored Mid-century Modern Old Town hotel can accommodate couples —and up to 300 guests—in its lush Palm Courtyard or on its sleek 7-stories-high Sky Line Rooftop. The rooftop is especially dreamy, with shade and stunning views of Camelback Mountain.
Outdoor Elopement Venues
It’s no secret that the Sonoran Desert is one of Scottsdale’s biggest draws. Thankfully, the city has several outdoor venues that invite you to make the most of it.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
If you love Scottsdale’s iconic desert landscapes and want a unique and truly private elopement venue, head to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. All you’ll need is a $150 Special Use Permit ($100 if you don’t have a professional photographer) and a couple weeks’ notice.
Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical (pictured) is so friendly to elopements, it created a special package just for this purpose. Trailside Weddings are designed for groups of up to 10, offering a choice of three gorgeous locations. Note that these spots are public—but still tucked away.
Camelback Mountain
Up for some thrilling adventure on your wedding day? Consider hiking up Camelback! The scenery combines the beautiful Sonoran desert along the trail, with sweeping city views from the summit. While not private, this “venue” is totally free. You’ll also have major bragging rights!
Best Scottsdale Restaurants for an Elopement
They’re perfect for a rehearsal dinner or reception, sure—but a restaurant for an entire elopement? When the restaurants are as scenic and memorable as Scottsdale’s, absolutely.
El Chorro
El Chorro (pictured) is easily one of the valley’s most acclaimed restaurants, consistently winning both awards and local recommendations. Four distinct onsite venues, both historic indoor spaces and outdoor event lawns, let you enjoy the lush greenery and outstanding views of Camelback.
The House Brasserie
Often—and appropriately—referred to as “The House,” this Old Town Scottsdale restaurant makes an ideal elopement venue. It is indeed a converted Victorian house, with an elegant French-inspired dining room and beautiful shaded back porch with space for up to 100.
Dominick's Steakhouse
Foodies and fans of unique upscale dining experiences will love Dominick’s. The classic steakhouse has a poolside dining room…on the roof! A retractable glass roof allows the space to be indoor or open air, and its focal point is a gorgeous 20x30-foot reflecting pool.
Other Scottsdale Elopement Ideas
Are you a couple who others describe as adventurous, or who like to think outside the box? Consider some of these very non-traditional Scottsdale elopement venues.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Want a bit of an adrenaline rush on your wedding day? Fly high in a hot air balloon! As a bonus, everyone will envy your adventurous, Instagram-worthy wedding! Hot Air Expeditions and Rainbow Ryders (pictured) offer wedding packages that include an officiant and champagne toast.
Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West
The one-time winter home of Frank Lloyd Wright himself and the present-day UNESCO World Heritage Site, Taliesin West is a striking venue for intimate weddings. There are a variety of awe-inducing spaces to choose from, and all events are 100% custom designed.
Scottsdale Hangars
Billing itself as a “blank canvas venue,” you can’t go wrong with an elopement at Scottsdale Hangars. They offer a completely customizable, exclusive experience for two to 1,500 people. Bring in a private chef, create a dance floor, set up a movie theater…the sky is truly the limit!
Rent a Private Bella Palazzo Estate
Sometimes, the best ideas are also the simplest. Scottsdale is home to countless stunning private estates, and many are perfectly suited to hosting special events. The experts at Bella Palazzo Collection can assist in locating the ideal five-star vacation rental that comes complete with beautiful linens, chef-stocked kitchens, and provisioning and concierge services.
