A Guide to the Most Beautiful Places to Say “I Do”. If you’re dreaming of an elopement that feels intimate, meaningful, and very you, the Tri-State area is one of the most underrated places to do it. We’re talking ocean dunes, quiet mountain overlooks, waterfalls, charming towns, city vibes, and those cozy East Coast forest feels. No stress, just a day that feels like the two of you. I’m Tiffany! An elopement and wedding photographer based around NY, NJ, and PA, so of course I feel I’m pretty reliable when it comes to sharing the best Elopement locations in the Tri State area.

Whether you want a spot that’s easy to access, something a little adventurous, or a location with a stunning overlook minus the long hike… this guide will walk you through all the best options in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Every location below includes details you’ll actually want to know: permit fees, accessibility info, seasonal tips, and what the vibe really feels like.

Elopement Locations Tri-State Area- IN NEW YORK

1. Minnewaska State Park Preserve (Hudson Valley, NY)

Vibe: Cliffs, blue lakes, dreamy overlooks
Hike Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (0.5–2 miles depending on the viewpoint)
Permit / Fees: Special Use Permit typically $200 inquire for exact quote
Best Season: Late spring–fall

Minnewaska is one of those places that instantly makes you slow down. With blue lakes, cliffside views, and wooded trails, it’s perfect for couples who want beautiful scenery without committing to a strenuous hike.

Why couples love it: It feels epic, but approachable.
Tips: Weekdays are best, and fall here is chef’s kiss.

2. Central Park (New York, NY) Is an iconic spot

Vibe: Classic NYC fairytale
Hike Difficulty: Very easy / paved
Permit / Fees: Ceremony is $25 for most spots but is only required for 20 or more guests
Best Season: Spring & fall

Central Park is iconic for a reason. It’s romantic, timeless, and full of little hidden gems.

Why couples love it: You can get married in nature… in the middle of Manhattan!
Tips: Sunrise is the best-kept secret here.

3. Taughannock Falls State Park (Finger Lakes, NY)

Vibe: Massive waterfall + canyon views
Hike Difficulty: Easy 0.75 mile, flat trail
Permit / Fees: Typically around $150
Best Season: Spring & fall

If you want that “wow” factor without climbing a mountain, Taughannock delivers.

Why couples love it: It’s easy but looks adventurous.
Tips: Go early, it gets busy fast in peak seasons.

Elopement Locations Tri-State Area- IN NEW JERSEY

4. The Palisades / Rockefeller Lookout (Alpine, NJ)

Vibe: Dramatic cliffs + river views
Hike Difficulty: little or no hiking experience
Permit / Fees: Usually $75–$200 from the Palisades Interstate Park Commission
Best Season: Late spring–fall

If you want breathtaking views the Palisades are such a good pick. You get sweeping cliffs, river views, and golden light at sunrise that makes everything glow.

Why couples love it: incredible scenery.
Tips: Sunrise is unbeatable here and keeps things quiet.

5. Island Beach State Park (NJ Shore)

Vibe: Coastal, calm, soft dunes
Hike Difficulty: Very easy
Permit / Fees: Usually $50–$300 but inquire for exact pricing!
Best Season: May–October

One of New Jersey’s most peaceful beaches, no boardwalk noise, just dunes, sea grass, and pastel sunsets. It’s the perfect setting if you want a simple, dreamy, natural beach elopement.

Why couples love it: It feels private even in the summer.
Tips: Bring a towel if you want to dip your toes in the water!

6. High Point State Park (Sussex, NJ)

Vibe: Mountain summit + open skies
Hike Difficulty: Very easy (drive-up)
Permit / Fees: Typically $100-300+
Best Season: Summer & early fall

If you want 360° mountain views without the sweat, High Point is a gem. It’s peaceful, quiet, and incredibly photogenic.

Why couples love it: Super accessible, but still feels like another world.
Tips: It gets breezy, bring a layer.

Elopement Locations- IN PENNSYLVANIA

7. Ricketts Glen State Park (PA)

Vibe: Waterfalls everywhere
Hike Difficulty: Moderate–Difficult
Permit / Fees: Usually $25–$50
Best Season: Summer & fall

This is for the couples who love an adventure. The Falls Trail has over 20 waterfalls, moss-covered stone steps, and lush greenery that feels straight out of the Pacific Northwest.

Why couples love it: It’s adventurous without feeling extreme.
Tips: Hiking shoes. Always.

8. Valley Forge National Historical Park (PA)

Vibe: Rolling fields + stone architecture
Hike Difficulty: Easy
Permit / Fees: Typically $75 app fee!
Best Season: Spring & fall

Valley Forge is calm, romantic, and full of soft open landscapes. It’s ideal if you want something scenic without going too far from Philadelphia.

Why couples love it: It offers tons of variety in one place.

9. Hickory Run State Park (PA)

Vibe: Pines, waterfalls, Boulder Field
Hike Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Permit / Fees: Usually $50-150
Best Season: Late spring–fall

This park gives you rugged textures, quiet woods, and a giant boulder field that makes for the most unique backdrops in the area.

Why couples love it: It feels wild, but still easy to explore.
Tips: Boulder Field = sturdy shoes required.

Planning Tips for a Tri-State Elopement

Weekdays will always be quieter.

Sunrise is your best friend for privacy + gorgeous light.

Always check permits before finalizing your date.

Build in extra time for weather, especially near cliffs or waterfalls.

Bring layers — East Coast weather changes its mind quickly.

Are you Ready to Start Planning Your Elopement?

If you’re reading through these locations and imagining yourselves there, I’d love to help make that vision real. I specialize in documenting elopements that feel intentional, relaxed, and true to who you are, and I’m here to help with everything from permits and planning to choosing the perfect location. If you’re ready to start planning a day that feels like you, reach out here and let’s create something you’ll love looking back on.