Love knows no boundaries, and when it comes to capturing the essence of your unique love story, why not choose a backdrop as remarkable as your connection? Imagine jaw-dropping cliffs, enchanting forests, and breathtaking lakes that stretch forever — that’s the magnificent Midwest for you!

This region of the States is often overlooked when looking for the best elopement destinations. You might be thinking, “Wait a minute, isn’t the Midwest just endless highways and boring old fields? Why would I tie the knot here?” You wouldn’t be the first person to think this; the truth is, those popular opinions couldn’t be further from reality! In this article, I’ll introduce you to the best places to elope in the Midwest. Whether you and your partner are lifelong Midwesterners or seeking a new adventure, these locations promise to be a canvas for your love story to unfold with all the vibrant colors of the rainbow.

Table of Contents

• Why Elope in the Midwest?
• First: A Few Things to Keep in Mind
• Top 10 Places to Elope in the Midwest
  • Minnesota’s North Shore (Minnesota)
  • Oberg Mountain (Minnesota)
  • Madeline Island (Wisconsin)
  • Badlands National Park (South Dakota) 
  • Devil’s Lake (Wisconsin)
  • Any of the Dunes in Michigan
  • Porcupine Mountains (Michigan)
  • Red River Gorge (Kentucky)
  • Shawnee National Forest (Illinois)
  • Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota)
  • Bonus: Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)
• Permits
• Weather and Time of Year Considerations
• Timing the Crowd
• Have a Backup Plan
• Navigating Elopement Locations as LGBTQ+ Folks

Why Elope in the Midwest?

As an LGBTQ+ elopement photographer, I’ve been able to capture queer love stories from far and wide. But as a Midwesterner, this area of the United States holds a special place in my heart, and it’s only fitting that I share all my knowledge about what makes the Midwest an ideal destination for your intimate celebration of love.

One of the most significant considerations you’ll face when looking to elope outdoors is the scenery. And you’ll be pleased to hear that the Midwest certainly doesn’t fall short in the breathtaking landscapes department. Not only will you experience these stunning backdrops, but this region is also known as one of the more affordable places for eloping (even though, in my opinion, the views and endless experiences are worth millions).

But First: A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Before we dive deeper into the best places to elope in the Midwest, there are a few essential things to keep in mind:

1. When referring to the Midwest, I’m talking about the following states: Indiana, Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin, Ohio, Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas, Michigan, North and South Dakota, Iowa and Kentucky. Yes, there’s a lot of them, which means each part of this region offers great diversity in landscapes and experiences. There’s unique charm everywhere you go!
2. As a photographer sharing elopement locations, it’s vital to uphold the Leave No Trace principles and minimize our impact on these outdoor spaces. Because of these principles, I’ll share general locations and not specific coordinates. This way, we can ensure that these cherished spots remain protected and not overcrowded, preserving their natural beauty for generations. When we work together one-on-one, we can narrow locations, hikes, and experiences down to the specifics!

Top 10 Places to Elope in the Midwest

1. Minnesota’s North Shore (Minnesota)

Nestled along the edge of Minnesota, the North Shore is a fascinating place for eloping couples seeking a touch of magic and serenity — just be prepared to fall head over heels for Lake Superior’s breathtaking beauty and surrounding landscapes.

As the largest freshwater lake in the United States, Lake Superior is one of those gems that has it all, from lakeside views and cliffsides to black sand beaches and towering pine trees. To me, the North Shore feels like a little slice of the PNW. It has the perfect blend of rugged wilderness, pristine beaches, and a charming coastal-like vibe, ensuring your Midwest elopement experience is like no other. 

I’ve done countless elopements at Minnesota’s North Shore, so believe me when I say: There’s no shortage of jaw-dropping spots. I’m in awe every time I’m there! All you have to do is drive along Highway 61 (“Voyageur Highway”), and you’ll find many places to stop along the coastline! 

2. Oberg Mountain (Minnesota)

This is one of the closest things to a mountain experience out here. While Oberg Mountain is relatively small compared to other rocky regions in the States, it still unveils a breathtaking landscape that will leave you spellbound. This Midwest elopement location promises panoramic vistas, vibrant colors, and tranquility that you can only feel wrapped in nature’s embrace.

As you embark on the three-mile trail that winds up Oberg Mountain, you’ll find a lush canopy of trees, creating a magical tunnel of greenery. Once you emerge from the forest, prepare for an awe-inspiring view of Lake Superior and its endless expanse of shimmering waters stretched out to the horizon. Can you ask for a better place to say “I do” to the person you love? Not to mention, saying you hiked to the top of a mountain on your wedding day is an impressive feat!

If you and your partner want something in Minnesota a little more challenging to seal the deal on an adventurous elopement, you can also check out Eagle Mountain. Just ensure you’re fully prepared for the energy this hike might expend. 

3. Madeline Island (Wisconsin) 

Staying on the shores of Lake Superior, but hopping over to a different State, Madeline Island is a hidden gem off the coast of Wisconsin that beckons couples seeking a unique and intimate eloping experience. The coolest thing about this location is that you can get there by plane, private boat, or ferry, which makes for a riveting memory. 

On the island, you’ll have lush forests, a tranquil oasis, and stunning cliffsides all in one place. Additionally, Madeline Island is home to charming and quaint towns full of small businesses, a vibrant sense of community, and welcoming people to cheer you and your partner on as you celebrate your special day.

4. Badlands National Park (South Dakota) or Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota)

I like comparing this Midwest Elopement location to an adventure in Moab without needing to go to Utah. Badlands National Park is often an underrated and forgotten national park simply because of its location: In the quiet state of South Dakota.

Here, the striking geological formations rise from the earth, creating an unforgettable panorama. Layered cliffs, carved by centuries of erosion, reveal a kaleidoscope of colors — shades of red, orange, and pink make the perfect contrast against a stark blue sky. Beautiful for elopement photography, much? 

If you’d prefer to go to North Dakota, Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers sweeping grasslands, equally impressive rock formations, and tranquil rivers that weave through the landscape. This elopement spot is also a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, wild horses, and many bird species.

Both Badlands and Theodore Roosevelt National Park are accessible by car or foot. It all depends on your and your partner’s preferences!

5. Devil’s Lake (Wisconsin)

Don’t let the name fool you — Devil’s Lake is actually a slice of heaven for adventurous couples looking to tie the knot amidst nature’s most captivating landscapes. There are over 29 miles worth of hiking trails, making diverse experiences accessible to everyone.

This elopement destination is unique with its dramatic rocks, sculpted over thousands of years, encircling the pristine lake. As you stand at the shores, you can’t help but stare in awe (it’s probably the exact look you and your partner will give each other on your elopement day). There’s no doubt that we’d get a stunning backdrop here. Devil’s Lake has plenty of intimate spaces that can make celebrating your love even more powerful!

Pro tip: At Devil’s Lake, golden hour in autumn is the secret recipe for jaw-dropping elopement photos.

6. Any of the Dunes in Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Silver Lake Sand Dunes, and the Arcadia Dunes are just a handful of places that you would not believe are in the Midwest — their sandy expanses remind people of Arizona or a far-off desert in another country. 

Imagine standing on top of the dunes, hand-in-hand, as the golden sun kisses your skin and the gentle breeze carries your vows across time and space. With the soothing sound of rolling waves in the distance, the dunes of Michigan are an exceptional place to make a promise of forever. For free-spirited couples looking to incorporate some playfulness into their day, this elopement spot is also the ultimate playground that allows you to run freely with the grains of sand beneath your feet — and I highly recommend you finish off the day by cooling off in the water!

7. Porcupine Mountains (Michigan)

The Porcupine Mountains, also known as “The Porkies,” is nestled within the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula along Lake Superior (by now, you might be catching onto the fact that Lake Superior is where it’s at). Here, love and nature converge in a symphony of beauty, offering an elopement experience that transcends the ordinary! 

When you venture into the heart of this location, you’ll immerse yourself in a world where ancient forests stand tall and winding trails lead you through hidden valleys and reveal tranquil rivers. The Porcupine Mountains also have gorgeous waterfalls, high-top views, and miles of hiking options.

8. Red River Gorge (Kentucky)

This Kentucky gem is a captivating destination for couples who like the sounds of majestic cliffs, a sea of greenery, cascading waterfalls, and bridges. How could your elopement day be more memorable than that, you might ask? Two words: Underground kayaking. You can paddle through the crystal-clear waters in hidden caves and river passages to put the “adventure” in adventure elopement.

To say the least, Red River Gorge offers the perfect place for an intimate elopement — and I’ll happily be there to capture every bit of it!

9. Shawnee National Forest (Illinois)

This location in the heart of Illinois is a breath of natural wonders. Shawnee National Forest has remarkable landscape diversity, from canyons and lakes to ancient rock formations and, of course, a never-ending sea of trees. It’s like stepping into a fairytale where every bend introduces you to a unique discovery!

There are many hiking options, including day hikes and overnight backpacking trips. One of the most popular day hikes in this region is Garden of the Gods (not to be confused with the one in Colorado).

At the end of the day, Shawnee National Forest offers an eloping experience for everyone. The best part? The gentle rustling of leaves and the melodic symphony of birds will be your witnesses (okay, but maybe not literally).

10. Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota)

Voyageurs National Park is a true haven for nature enthusiasts and elopement dreamers alike, offering a one-of-a-kind experience. One of the best things about this location is that it gets smaller crowds despite being a national park. When I did an elopement here recently, we didn’t see a soul on the trail, which made for a more private and intimate experience.

The mainland encompasses vast forests and hills, inviting you to lace up your hiking boots and set off on unforgettable trails. In the warmer months, you can rent a canoe or kayak and explore one of the many islands scattered throughout the sparkling waters. Check out my guide to learn more about eloping at Voyageurs National Park!

Bonus: Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

The Midwest is vast, so I just have to give all you lovebirds a surprise bonus location. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is where nature’s poetry truly comes to life. Here, you’ll find vibrant forests, beautiful hikes, and picturesque waterfalls — all of which add to the perfect experience and backdrop to declare your vows.

Advice For Planning Your Elopement Adventure in the Midwest

As you plan your elopement in the Midwest, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience:

1. Permits

Each state has its own park system with specific requirements. One rule I live by is always assuming that you need a permit for your elopement shoot or event unless you have written confirmation stating otherwise. Trust me, you don’t want to be kicked out of a location on your wedding day.

2. Weather and Time of Year Considerations

The Midwest is indeed known for being a frozen tundra-like place. However, if you plan your elopement for May to October, you’ll mostly be clear from the cold! Don’t get me wrong, winter is also a beautiful season in the Midwest, but it comes with more risk, like 23 inches of snow. 

If you asked me the ideal time to elope in the Midwest, I’d say September and October. These months are when all the beautiful leaves change colors; trust me, it’s a sight to see and will make for absolutely stunning photography. Keep in mind that some of the locations I mentioned above may be busier than usual during this time because everyone seems to agree: Midwest autumn vibes are hard to beat.

3. Timing the Crowd

Although the Midwest may not be as crowded as coastal regions, it still experiences its fair share of visitors, especially during peak summer and fall months. To ensure a more intimate elopement experience, consider choosing a weekday, which can be advantageous because:

• There will be less foot traffic and more privacy.
• You won’t need to worry about finding parking.
• Park areas and trails won’t have crowds.
• Securing a permit is often easier than on weekends because park staff can focus on accommodating your needs without the added pressure of other visitors.

4. Have a Backup Plan

Of course, because all of these spots in the Midwest are outdoors, always have a plan B when planning your elopement. Nature can be unpredictable sometimes, and nothing would be worse than having to cancel your special day entirely because of unsafe conditions. In any event, something tells me that among the many jaw-dropping locations in the Midwest, you won’t have a hard time choosing a backup or two.

5. Navigating Elopement Locations as LGBTQ+ Folks

While it’s essential to be cautious no matter where we go in the world, it’s crucial for us LGBTQ+ folks to be hypervigilant when scouting our elopement locations. 

It’s no secret that some states may be more inclusive and accepting than others. California, for example, is generally perceived as a more welcoming state, while places like South Dakota are traditionally more conservative. While this doesn’t mean that you will experience homophobia if you elope in these conservative-leaning states, it’s important to do a bit of research beforehand to identify the safest and most LGBTQ+-friendly pockets within each area. 

The good thing about elopements is that they can be very private, often with no one else around. Still, it’s just a best practice to be aware of the potential attitudes around you — your safety is a priority, and you deserve to celebrate your love without bigotry and negativity.

Capture Your Midwest Elopement Magic With Me!

Congratulations, lovebirds — you’ve uncovered some of the best places to elope in the Midwest and are now one step closer to finding the perfect backdrop for your adventure of love! As an LGBTQ+ elopement photographer, I’m forever grateful and honored to be invited into your space to capture your love’s genuine moments. Together, we can create a visual narrative reflecting the uniqueness of your connection and the stunning surroundings this region offers. Check out my Midwest elopement packages, or contact me to learn more!