Considering a Pittsburgh Elopement?: The Best Places to Elope in Pittsburgh
Wondering if there are places to elope in Pittsburgh? If you’re like many other non-traditional couples, you’re probably considering eloping or having a micro wedding instead of a big, fancy wedding. But figuring out where to elope in Pittsburgh can be tricky, as there may not appear to be many options at first glance.
But I’m here to share with you some of the best places to elope in Pittsburgh (and just outside of Pittsburgh), whether you’re a local looking for at-home elopement ideas or someone from out-of-town wanting to do a getaway elopement.
How to Elope in Pittsburgh
Before we get into elopement locations in Pittsburgh, you may be wondering exactly how to elope in Pittsburgh and if you should even elope in the first place. Perhaps you think elopements only happen in Vegas or around more scenic places like Lake Como. The truth is you don’t have to travel to elope, and you’re not limited to eloping at the county courthouse either. There are lots of possibilities when it comes to places to elope in Pittsburgh!
And yes, if you’re considering it, you should elope! Eloping is often more eco-friendly, as it can really cut down on the amount of waste your wedding produces. Plus, it can be more adventurous and romantic.
(Related Post: Why You Should Work with an Eco-Friendly Wedding Planner)
With some elopement packages, you can include guests in your elopement. It doesn’t have to be just the two of you (although, some elopement packages have a limit for the number of guests or witnesses). Another important note is that elopement packages among venues and other wedding vendors (planners, photographers, etc.) are meant for a short and sweet event. So if you’re wanting an elopement that allows you to relax and take the day slowly, expect to pay more full-service prices.
If you’re wondering how to elope in Pittsburgh, my suggestion is to picture what your ideal wedding would look like without restrictions. When you’re eloping, you’re often less restricted and more able to bring that vision to life. Or if you want a super simple option, consider choosing a location that offers an all-inclusive elopement package. I have some great ideas for elopement locations below, so check them out!
The Best Places to Elope in Pittsburgh
From all inclusive elopement packages to wedding venues that can hold elopements or tiny weddings, you’ll find lots of ideas for Pittsburgh elopement locations here.
All Inclusive Elopement Packages in Pittsburgh
For couples looking for an easy elopement in Pittsburgh, these places offer nearly all inclusive elopement packages or customizable packages:
The Edgewood Club offers an all inclusive pop up wedding / elopement package that comes with charcuterie and a photographer. Ceremony decor and beverages can be added on.
Located in the Strip District, Heinz History Center is currently offering both an intimate, micro wedding package and a pop up wedding package from January through March.
*Note: Phipps Conservatory is offering occasional pop up weddings, and Hotel Monaco may be offering micro weddings and elopements on select dates in 2023, so be sure to check in with them for more information.
Elope at a Local Park or Landmark and a Nearby Restaurant
If it’s just the two of you, or if it’s you and a small group of people, this opens up so many options for you in terms of elopement locations. When you don’t have to accommodate a guest list, you can sidestep venue restrictions and choose one of your favorite places to wed.
Imagine eloping on the river rocks in Ohiopyle State Park or on a mountain in the Laurel Highlands! There are also lots of beautiful local parks around Pittsburgh where you could elope and then head off to celebrate at a nearby restaurant instead of holding a formal reception. If the weather is nice, another consideration is to have a picnic.
Just be sure to check to see if you need a permit or to make special considerations for your chosen location and guest count first. And be conscious about leaving the grounds as you found them, properly disposing of waste.
My suggestion is to hire a photographer that is experienced in elopements, as they can also help you with planning other details of the elopement. (I highly recommend Liz Capuano Photography!) Or check out my elopement planning services here!
Pittsburgh Venues That Could Accommodate Elopements with Guests
Although they don’t specifically have packages for elopements for micro weddings, these restaurants and venues can accommodate both a ceremony and reception on site.
Related Post: 20 Micro Wedding Venues in Pittsburgh to Check Out for Your Intimate Wedding
This fine-dining Italian restaurant has room for a small ceremony on the deck/patio or the second floor. While it features a fairly large ballroom, there are also a couple private dining rooms that are perfect for a non-traditional micro wedding or elopement.
While it’s important for you to know that there are many options out there aside from eloping at the courthouse, I would be remiss if I did not mention the Allegheny Courthouse as an option for your Pittsburgh elopement. It features a beautiful grand staircase for a wedding ceremony, as well as a gorgeous courtyard that could be rented for cocktails or dinner afterward, if you don’t plan on having dinner elsewhere.
If you’re looking for a small chapel for your elopement, Tarenbee in Tarentum, PA offers just that. It also has a gathering room that can fit up to 30 people for a seated meal or 75 for a standing cocktail reception. You can also bring your own caterer.
Elopement Locations Near Pittsburgh
If you’re dreaming of a fairytale wedding without the huge guest list, this is the place for you. Buhl Mansion is a castle with beautiful gardens, a spa, and overnight accommodations located in Sharon, PA that offers an all inclusive elopement package for you and up to 2 witnesses.
Located near Portersville, PA near Moraine State Park and Lake Arthur, Forest and Flowers Retreat is a private sanctuary tucked away on 50 acres of woodlands. Forest and Flowers offers space for micro weddings and elopements that can include flowers, an officiant, ceremony music, and reception decor, as well as a space for the couple to stay overnight.
If you love the Laurel Highlands, check out Oak Lodge, located in Stahlstown, PA. It’s perfect if you’re looking to do a nearby getaway elopement, as their all-inclusive elopement package includes dinner and a one-night stay, not to mention a wedding ceremony in their log chapel.
If you’re open to eloping during the week, Succop Nature Park in Butler, PA offers rental space without a minimum guest requirement during that time. The park features beautiful grounds for a naturesque ceremony, as well as a charming house that can seat up to 36 guests. Or… with it being a public park, you could look into holding your wedding ceremony there and celebrating at a local restaurant if you want something more low-key.
More on How to Pull Off an Easy Elopement
If you’re not going with an all-inclusive elopement package, putting together an elopement can be harder than it may seem, especially if you’re looking to elope at a park or landmark.
Finding out what rules you need to follow, whether you need a permit, where to find a florist that doesn’t have a minimum fee, where to celebrate afterward, and how to find vendors that charge elopement prices instead of full-service wedding prices can quickly become daunting.
I know I’m biased, but this is why I recommend finding either: A) an elopement photographer that can provide some elopement planning assistance or B) a wedding planner that can help you plan your elopement or consult with you on it.
Need some help with planning an elopement in Pittsburgh? Check out my elopement planning services here!