Dreaming of a romantic city elopement? Look no further than Cleveland, Ohio! Situated on the scenic Lake Erie, Cleveland has no shortage of beautiful and romantic locations to elope. From historic architecture to scenic parks, Cleveland has a variety of locations and activities for every couple. 

As an Cleveland elopement photographer, I’ve scoped out all the best elopement spots in Cleveland so you don’t have to! Read on to learn more about some of my favorites!

Best Places to Elope in Cleveland

With so many incredible spots to choose from, how do you find the perfect one for your elopement? Here are some of my favorite outdoor and indoor locations in Cleveland!

Outdoor Elopement Locations

• Squire’s Castle – Squire’s Castle is an old gatehouse from the 1890s that’s now part of the Cleveland Metro Parks system. I recommend this location for a weekday since it is a popular spot for weddings and photos.
• Edgewater Park – This is an incredibly scenic park that is most beautiful at sunset. You can take pictures with the Cleveland sign and then say your vows with the city and the lake behind you. 
• Cleveland Cultural Gardens – The Cleveland Cultural Gardens are a gorgeous outdoor location with a lot of variety. Some of the gardens feature elaborate pavilions and statues and would be a beautiful backdrop for your elopement. 
• Cleveland Botanical Garden – If you’re wanting to be surrounded by gorgeous greenery and gardens during your elopement, look no further than the Cleveland Botanical Garden. This location can be reserved for a ceremony and/or reception, as well as just photos.
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park (just outside Cleveland) – Whether you are looking for waterfalls, scenic lakes, or beautiful overlooks, CVNP has it all! You can find my guide on where to elope in Cuyahoga Valley National Park here!

Work with me as your elopement photographer in Cleveland.

Indoor Elopement Locations

• Cleveland Public Library – The Cleveland Public Library has fun rotating special exhibits as well as a variety of beautiful areas you can explore. You can take photos in the entrance, on the staircases, in the garden, and among the stacks. You can definitely take elopement photos here, but you will need to check with the library to ensure they are okay with you saying vows there as well. 
• The Arcade Cleveland – A breathtaking indoor venue with historic architecture and a glass ceiling. You can take elopement portraits here if they do not have a special event happening. If you would like to have your ceremony here, you will need to check in and reserve with the Hyatt Regency. 
• Severance Hall – This Cleveland Orchestra concert venue is stunning. The Grand Foyer has red marble pillars lining the space and the floor features beautiful patterns. Severance Hall would be a beautiful backdrop for your elopement ceremony or photos.
• Cleveland City Hall Rotunda – Another beautiful historic Cleveland location, the Cleveland City Hall Rotunda is a great spot to rent for a small elopement ceremony.  

Keep in mind that these lists are not comprehensive! There are a ton of great locations in and around Cleveland where you could have your elopement ceremony or go during your elopement as a fun activity. As you brainstorm potential locations, think about your favorite local parks, museums, libraries, greenhouses, hotels, wineries/breweries, and restaurants and reach out to see if you can have your elopement ceremony or take photos there!

Feeling overwhelmed with planning? Learn more about my Cleveland elopement photography and planning services.

Elopement Activity Ideas in Cleveland

No elopement day is complete without some fun activities to celebrate with! Here’s a quick list of potential activities in Cleveland:

• Go for a helicopter ride over the city
• Have a sunset picnic at Edgewater Park
• Get matching tattoos at a local parlor
• Eat at a local food truck
• Explore a garden or greenhouse
• Grab drinks and food at a winery or brewery
• Go to the zoo or aquarium
• Explore one of Cleveland’s many museums

I’ve got a ton of activity ideas and help couples plan an elopement day that speaks to their interests. Get started on your Cleveland elopement here.

Best Time of Year to Elope in Cleveland

You can elope in Cleveland year round, but each season will have its different pros and cons. It’s just a matter of what you are looking for in an elopement day!

• Spring: if you’re looking for gorgeous flowers (cherry blossoms!), greenery, and mild weather. 
• Summer: if you’re looking for greenery, warm weather, and longer days with plenty of daylight.
• Fall: if you’re looking for gorgeous foliage at the parks and mild weather.
• Winter: if you’re looking for coziness and snow-covered scenery.

Want more details on the best time to elope in Ohio? Check out my guide on when to elope in Ohio here.

Additional Planning Tips for Eloping in Cleveland

Marriage License Requirements

With elopements, you have two options for taking care of the legal marriage side of things:

1. If you’re not from Cleveland and don’t want to do the legal side of things there, you don’t have to. You can opt for a civil ceremony in your location instead. For example, I eloped in Iceland, but my husband and I did our legal ceremony in Ohio afterwards – it was just easier.
2. You can do the legal marriage on your elopement day in Cleveland. If you are opting for this, check with the court in the county where your ceremony will take place for the most up-to-date guidance and requirements. Here is the guide for Cuyahoga County. 

Want to keep your day as small as possible and need an officiant? I’m ordained and licensed in the state of Ohio. Learn more about my Cleveland elopement photography services.

Permits & Rules

Many locations require a permit either for photography or for using the location for your elopement ceremony. I’ve linked the relevant websites for each of the locations above so you know exactly where to look for the best information.

Ready to Tie the Knot in Cleveland?

Cleveland is a super fun elopement destination! There are a lot of cool and unique locations where you can hold your ceremony and take elopement photos together. There are also a ton of different activities you can do to celebrate your day. 

Want a stress-free and beautiful elopement in Cleveland? I’ll help you plan the perfect day and capture every unforgettable moment. Let’s chat about your vision—reach out today!