Skip to Content

The Best Places to Throw a Destination Wedding in the American West

Skyblue Overland may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article.

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Discover the best destination weddings in the American West, featuring stunning venues, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Perfect for couples seeking a picturesque and memorable celebration in iconic Western locations.

Highlights: 

  • Stunning Venues: Explore top venues for the best destination weddings in the American West, from Napa Valley vineyards to Jackson Hole mountain resorts.
  • Diverse Activities: Each destination offers unique activities for guests, including wine tasting, hiking, skiing, and cultural experiences.
  • Breathtaking Landscapes: The American West provides picturesque backdrops, from the red rocks of Sedona to the serene shores of Lake Tahoe.


Introduction

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting journey, offering the chance to celebrate your love in a breathtaking and unique location. The American West, with its diverse landscapes, charming towns, and luxurious resorts, provides some of the most stunning backdrops for an unforgettable wedding. Whether you dream of saying “I do” amid the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley, against the dramatic red rock formations of Sedona, or surrounded by the majestic peaks of Jackson Hole, the West offers countless options for a picturesque and memorable ceremony.

From the serene shores of Lake Tahoe to the rustic charm of Sun Valley, the American West caters to a variety of wedding styles and preferences. Couples seeking adventure can find thrill and beauty in places like Aspen and Park City, while those looking for tranquility and cultural richness might opt for Santa Fe or Big Sur. Each location offers its unique blend of natural beauty, exceptional venues, and activities for guests, ensuring that your wedding is not only a celebration of your union but also a remarkable experience for everyone involved.

In this guide, we explore twelve of the best places to throw a destination wedding in the American West. Each destination is celebrated for its stunning scenery, top-tier wedding venues, and array of activities that will delight your guests. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, these locations provide the perfect setting to create lifelong memories. Join us as we journey through these enchanting destinations, each offering a distinct charm and beauty that will make your wedding day truly special.

1. Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley, known for its world-class wineries and breathtaking landscapes, offers a picturesque backdrop for a destination wedding. The rolling vineyards, elegant estates, and charming gardens provide countless options for a stunning ceremony and reception. Venues like the Charles Krug Winery, with its historic Carriage House and iconic Redwood Cellar, or the luxurious Auberge du Soleil, known for its spectacular views and exceptional service, are popular choices for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.

Beyond the ceremony, Napa Valley offers an array of activities for wedding guests. Wine tasting tours, hot air balloon rides, and gourmet dining experiences ensure that everyone can enjoy the region’s offerings. The combination of beautiful scenery, exceptional wines, and luxurious accommodations make Napa Valley an ideal location for a wedding that guests will remember for a lifetime.

Venues like the Charles Krug Winery or the luxurious Auberge du Soleil are popular choices for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.

Sun and clouds at a Napa California vineyard with mountains, valleys and lake

2. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, with its striking red rock formations and spiritual energy, is a captivating destination for a wedding. The stunning natural landscapes provide a dramatic and romantic setting for a ceremony. Venues such as the Enchantment Resort, nestled in the heart of Boynton Canyon, and the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, with its charming courtyards and Spanish-style architecture, offer unique and beautiful settings for weddings.

Sedona’s mystical atmosphere and outdoor activities make it a perfect destination for couples who love adventure and nature. Hiking, jeep tours, and spiritual retreats are just a few of the activities that guests can enjoy. The blend of natural beauty and spiritual ambiance creates a truly unique and memorable wedding experience in Sedona.

Venues such as the Enchantment Resort and the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village offer unique and beautiful settings for weddings.

Sedona’s red rocks and spiritual energy make it a captivating wedding destination.

3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole, located near the Grand Teton National Park, is a dream destination for couples seeking a rustic and adventurous wedding. The breathtaking mountain scenery, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife provide a stunning backdrop for a wedding. Venues like the Snake River Ranch, with its panoramic views of the Tetons, and the Four Seasons Resort, offering luxury and elegance, are popular choices for weddings in Jackson Hole.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the array of activities available, from hiking and wildlife safaris to skiing and river rafting. The charming town of Jackson, with its Western flair and vibrant arts scene, adds to the appeal. A wedding in Jackson Hole promises a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and rustic charm that is perfect for nature-loving couples.

Jackson Hole, located near the Grand Teton National Park, is a dream destination for couples seeking a rustic and adventurous wedding.

Jackson Hole, near Grand Teton National Park, is a dream wedding spot for adventurous couples.

4. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, renowned for its world-class ski resorts and luxurious accommodations, is an ideal destination for a winter wedding. The snow-capped mountains and cozy lodges create a magical atmosphere for a wedding ceremony. Venues such as The Little Nell, known for its impeccable service and stunning views, and the Aspen Meadows Resort, with its contemporary design and scenic surroundings, offer exceptional settings for weddings.

In addition to skiing, Aspen offers a range of activities for wedding guests, including snowshoeing, hot springs, and upscale shopping and dining. The combination of winter wonderland charm and sophisticated amenities makes Aspen a top choice for couples seeking a glamorous and romantic wedding destination.

Aspen Meadows Resort Mountain ski retreat with dining and an outdoor pool that are excellent for a Destination Wedding.

Photo: Aspen Meadows Resort

5. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, with its rich cultural heritage and adobe architecture, provides a unique and enchanting setting for a wedding. The city’s historic charm and vibrant arts scene offer a distinctive backdrop for a wedding ceremony. Venues such as the Loretto Chapel, famous for its miraculous staircase, and the Inn and Spa at Loretto, with its Southwestern style and luxurious amenities, are popular choices for weddings.

Guests can explore the city’s many art galleries, museums, and markets, or take in the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and desert. The blend of cultural richness, artistic flair, and scenic landscapes makes Santa Fe an ideal destination for a wedding that is both unique and memorable.

Santa Fe, with its rich cultural heritage and adobe architecture, provides a unique and enchanting setting for a wedding.

Santa Fe offers a unique and enchanting wedding setting, with its rich cultural heritage and adobe architecture.

6. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains, is a stunning location for a wedding. The natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding forests provide a picturesque setting for a ceremony. Venues such as the Edgewood Tahoe Resort, offering breathtaking views and luxurious accommodations, and the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, with its lakeside charm and elegant spaces, are top choices for weddings.

Lake Tahoe offers a variety of activities for guests, including boating, hiking, and skiing, depending on the season. The combination of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty makes Lake Tahoe an ideal destination for couples seeking a wedding that combines nature and luxury.

Lake Tahoe, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains, is a stunning location for a wedding.

Lake Tahoe is a beautiful location for a wedding, with crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains.

7. Big Sur, California

Big Sur, with its dramatic coastline and rugged cliffs, offers a breathtaking setting for a wedding. The stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the natural beauty of the area create a romantic and awe-inspiring backdrop for a ceremony. Venues such as the Post Ranch Inn, with its cliffside location and luxurious amenities, and the Ventana Big Sur, offering sweeping views and elegant spaces, are popular choices for weddings.

The area is known for its scenic drives, hiking trails, and serene beaches, providing plenty of activities for wedding guests. The combination of dramatic scenery and tranquil atmosphere makes Big Sur a perfect destination for a wedding that is both intimate and spectacular.

Big Sur, with its dramatic coastline and rugged cliffs, offers a breathtaking setting for a wedding.

Big Sur’s coastline and cliffs make a stunning wedding backdrop.

8. Park City, Utah

Park City, known for its world-class ski resorts and charming historic downtown, is an ideal destination for a wedding in any season. The stunning mountain scenery and luxurious venues create a perfect setting for a wedding. Venues such as the St. Regis Deer Valley, with its opulent spaces and mountain views, and the Stein Eriksen Lodge, offering rustic elegance and exceptional service, are popular choices for weddings.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Park City offers a range of activities for guests, including hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the vibrant downtown area. The combination of outdoor adventure, luxury, and charm makes Park City an ideal destination for a memorable wedding.

Park City, known for its world-class ski resorts and charming historic downtown, is an ideal destination for a wedding in any season.

Park City is perfect for a wedding year-round with its premier ski resorts and charming downtown.

9. Sun Valley, Idaho

Sun Valley, a hidden gem in the Rocky Mountains, offers a picturesque and serene setting for a wedding. The natural beauty of the area, with its rolling hills and stunning mountain views, provides a perfect backdrop for a ceremony. Venues such as the Sun Valley Lodge, known for its historic charm and luxurious amenities, and the Trail Creek Cabin, offering rustic elegance and scenic views, are top choices for weddings.

Sun Valley offers a range of activities for guests, including skiing, hiking, and exploring the charming town of Ketchum. The blend of natural beauty, luxury, and tranquility makes Sun Valley an ideal destination for a wedding that is both intimate and unforgettable.

Sun Valley, a hidden gem in the Rocky Mountains, offers a picturesque and serene setting for a wedding.

Sun Valley, a serene and picturesque location in the Rocky Mountains for a wedding.

10. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana

Yellowstone National Park, with its geothermal features and breathtaking landscapes, offers a unique and awe-inspiring setting for a wedding. The natural beauty of the park, with its geysers, hot springs, and wildlife, provides a stunning backdrop for a ceremony. Venues such as the Old Faithful Inn, with its historic charm and proximity to the iconic geyser, and the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, offering rustic elegance and scenic views, are popular choices for weddings.

Guests can explore the park’s many attractions, from the Grand Prismatic Spring to the Yellowstone River, or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching. The combination of natural wonders and historic charm makes Yellowstone National Park a perfect destination for a wedding that is both unique and memorable.

Venues such as the Old Faithful Inn, with its historic charm and proximity to the iconic geyser

Old Faithful Inn, Yellowstone National Park is known for its historic charm. Photo: Courtesy of Yellowstone National Park Lodges.

11. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park, with its iconic granite cliffs and stunning waterfalls, offers a majestic setting for a wedding. The natural beauty of the park, with its towering sequoias and breathtaking vistas, provides a perfect backdrop for a ceremony. Venues such as the Ahwahnee Hotel, known for its grand architecture and luxurious amenities, and the Yosemite Valley Chapel, offering a charming and intimate setting, are popular choices for weddings.

Guests can explore the park’s many attractions, from Half Dome to El Capitan, or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and rock climbing. The combination of natural beauty and historic charm makes Yosemite National Park an ideal destination for a wedding that is both awe-inspiring and unforgettable.

The Ahwahnee Hotel and Yosemite Valley Chapel, known for grand architecture and luxury amenities.

The majestic Ahwahnee in Yosemite National Park is known for grand architecture and luxury amenities.

12. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park, with its towering sandstone cliffs and stunning canyons, offers a dramatic and awe-inspiring setting for a wedding. The natural beauty of the park, with its vibrant colors and unique rock formations, provides a perfect backdrop for a ceremony. Venues such as the Zion Lodge, offering rustic charm and scenic views, and the Cliffrose Lodge, with its lush gardens and riverfront location, are popular choices for weddings.

Guests can explore the park’s many attractions, from the Narrows to Angels Landing, or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and canyoneering. The combination of dramatic scenery and outdoor adventure makes Zion National Park an ideal destination for a wedding that is both unique and unforgettable.

These destinations in the American West offer a wide range of stunning settings and exceptional venues for a destination wedding. Whether you prefer the natural beauty of national parks, the luxury of world-class resorts, or the charm of historic towns, these locations provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable and beautiful wedding.

Discover stunning American West wedding destinations with picturesque landscapes, luxurious venues, and unforgettable experiences.

Zion National Park is an excellent destination for a wedding.

Conclusion

The American West is a treasure trove of spectacular wedding destinations, each offering its unique blend of natural beauty, luxurious venues, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you envision your wedding amid the vineyards of Napa Valley, under the mystical red rocks of Sedona, or against the dramatic peaks of Jackson Hole, the West provides the perfect canvas for your dream celebration.

These destinations not only offer breathtaking settings for your ceremony and reception but also ensure a memorable experience for your guests. From outdoor adventures in Aspen and Park City to the cultural richness of Santa Fe and the serene shores of Lake Tahoe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The combination of stunning landscapes, exceptional venues, and diverse activities makes the American West an ideal choice for couples seeking a destination wedding that is both beautiful and unforgettable.

As you plan your special day, consider these enchanting locations that promise to make your wedding a truly remarkable event. Whether you desire rustic charm, luxurious elegance, or adventurous spirit, the American West has a destination that will perfectly capture the essence of your love and create memories to last a lifetime.


Popular Articles:

Adventure Talk: Rock Climbing Camps For Women

Glamour in the Wild: Explore the World’s 15 Best Glamping Resorts

Discover Colorado’s Hidden Gems: Top 10 Charming Small Towns

Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains: A Luxurious Wilderness Retreat

Adventure Awaits: Exploring the World’s 15 Most Stunning National Parks