Whether you’re looking to stay close to home or want to hop on an adventure, your wedding spot should be as special as the event itself.
Although there are some buzzed-about spots that are worth the hype, there are even more that fly under the radar.
Here is a list of 12 cities you may not have considered for your big day — but should!
12. Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is a port city, so you know the views will be oceanic and beautiful. Kick it coastal with a seaside wedding and a reception on a boat. You can even rent a battleship for the wedding or the reception.
11. Alexandria, Virginia
Just across the river from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is the quintessential Virginia city to spend your sweet celebration. Amazon.com even voted it one of the Top 20 Most Romantic Cities.
The vintage architecture and posh feel make it comfortable and photo-worthy. For the reception, rent out a spot at the River Farm botanical gardens.
10. Brooklyn, New York
Manhattan might be a hot spot for weddings, but a quick subway ride could get you to another romantic area — Brooklyn!
Between Dumbo’s cobblestone streets and vintage spots in Prospect Park, you’ll have plenty of opportunity for picture-perfect wedding shots.
9. Fairbanks, Alaska
Alaska is a hidden sweet spot for outdoors-y weddings, and Fairbanks is home to a huge display of arts and arctic animals.
Hit up an ice museum or a cool hiking trail for some post-party exploring. Bonus: If you plan a summer wedding, the sun stays out all day long.
8. Lambertville, New Jersey
From quirky vintage shops to old-school riverside hotels, Lambertville is the perfect space to celebrate a new marriage. It lines the Delaware River and is connected to historic New Hope, Pennsylvania by a walkable bridge.
Lambertville is fit for a wedding any time of year: During the fall, enjoy the scenic fall leaves in front of the Victorian architecture, or enjoy the endless options for outdoor activities during the summer.
7. San Luis Obispo, California
San Luis Obispo — or Slo to locals — has some of the most beautiful views on the West Coast.
Whether you prefer a wedding in the sand or a hike-worthy view, you can count on the weather to be on your side. For a picturesque reception, book a ceremony in the Dallidet Adobe and Gardens or on a old-school ranch.
6. Boston, Massachusetts
We might not recommend Boston for a winter wedding, but the less tumultuous seasons are perfect for celebrating in the New England city.
Go for a classic park wedding in the Boston Common or head to the Boston Harbor Hotel for a coastal celebration. Reserve a place at the Liberty Hotel — a refurbished prison — for a swanky afterparty.
5. Salem, Massachusetts
Salem might be known for its haunted abandoned jails and witches, but its quaint New England feel is really what puts it on the map for weddings.
This space, 15 miles outside of Boston, has waterfront venues fit for your New England nuptials. Plan a group ghost tour, an eerie trip to a haunted house or a scrumptious food tour for fun pre-wedding festivities.
4. Portland, Maine
, Maine, is full of sweet inns and harborside marinas. The spas and golf courses make it a perfect to stay the whole weekend. Plus — just think of all that lobster.
3. Princeton, New Jersey
Princeton is smack dab in between New York City and Philadelphia, but it is the perfect escape from a large city. From wrought-iron fences to scenic biking trails, this college town has spectacular photo-ops for you and your wedding party.
Get some pre-wedding photos at Palmer Square and in front of the ivy-spun gates of Princeton University. For post-wedding noshes, head over to the famed artisan ice cream parlor The Bent Spoon for eclectic flavors, such as olive oil and avocado.
2. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport, Rhode Island is best known for its expansive mansions and swanky yachts.
For a fairytale affair, celebrate at Castle Hill, a 40-acre estate lining the Atlantic. If you want to keep it more traditional, head to the Newport Marriott, which has a nautical-themed ballroom and a seven-story atrium.
1. Montpelier, Vermont
Vermont is not just for snowbirds. Celebrate your wedding in Montpelier with its rich artistic culture by taking trips to eccentric cafes and must-see museums.
Book a spot at the Capitol Plaza, which will take care of all of your wedding planning needs. And nothing says wedding quite like a good glass of wine— rent time at the Fresh Tracks Vineyard and Winery to calm those pre-wedding nerves. For your post-wedding getaway, hit the slopes at neighboring Stowe or Sugarbush mountains.
