As an elopement photographer based in Minnesota, I have had the pleasure of photographing many couples who have chosen Minnesota as their elopement destination. I love helping couples find lodging, connect with other vendors they may need, and plan out their timeline in addition to being their photographer. In this guide, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite lodging options for couples who are planning a Minnesota elopement.
This Airbnb is perfect for couples who want a quiet, secluded getaway for their intimate Minnesota elopement. The cabin actually has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, and sleeps up to ten guests. So even if you’re having a few guests, you can have everyone stay here in one place! It’s flooded with natural light, so it would even be a great ‘getting ready” spot for before your elopement. The lake that you’ll have fabulous views of is Ethel Lake, which is one of the cleanest lakes around, and you’re more than welcome to partake in water sports on this lake. You’re about ten minutes away from grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping boutiques in the cities of Perham, Battle Lake, and Ottertail. If you want to elope somewhere scenic nearby, Glendalough State Park is only a short drive away!
This is a resort perfect for couples who want to stay right on one of Minnesota’s most popular sites: Lake Superior. They have twelve cabins on their property, all with fantastic views of the lake. This would also be great if you’re having guests for your Minnesota elopement, because you can reserve multiple cabins. They also have kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, fly fishing, and more super close by at their sister resorts. If eloping on the North Shore sounds like something you and your partner would want to do, this resort also offers wedding & elopement packages.
This is a super unique resort because it’s at the Northwest Angle on Lake of the Woods, so it’s surrounded by Canada on three sides. Keep in mind that you do need a passport to stay here! In case you aren’t familiar, the Northwest Angle is the most northerly point in the United States. There are a total of six cabins on the property, and all reservations come with a complementary 6 ft boat to use on the lake! If you want to elope somewhere nearby, Zippel Bay State Park would be a beautiful place to do it.
This is a boutique located in Minneapolis, the area is surrounded by cobblestones and the Stone Arch. They have seven unique rooms, each with their own personality. Because this is an urban hotel, this isn’t necessarily a quiet spot. Ambient noise is a part of the experience! The Alma Restaurant is upscale and very popular, so you could have an intimate dinner here with just you and your partner or you two plus your elopement guests! They have private dining options, or if you wanted something a little more extravagant they do offer buyout options.
This Airbnb would be perfect for couples who want to stay near the city but not necessarily in the middle of all the hustle and bustle. It’s located in a quiet MN neighborhood, just steps away from the Mississippi River. The light rail station is also super close by for easy transportation to and from downtown. As for the actual property, the home is almost 3,000 square feet, with four bedrooms and six bathrooms. You can have up to ten guests stay here for your Minnesota elopement.
The hotel has a rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the city, perfect for a nightcap after your elopement. They also have a restaurant that serves delicious food and craft cocktails.
There are plenty of things to do in the area, such as visiting the nearby Mill City Museum or taking a stroll across the Stone Arch Bridge. The location is also convenient for getting around the city, with easy access to public transportation.
The Hewing Hotel is an ideal luxury destination for couples looking for an unforgettable Minnesota elopement. Situated in downtown Minneapolis, this historic wedding venue boasts a rooftop lounge with breathtaking views of the city skyline. The hotel combines Minnesota’s rustic history with modern amenities to create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. The Tubilee, the hotel’s restaurant, takes inspiration from traditional Nordin practices of foraging, butchery, and fermentation, using locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes. For those over 21, the rooftop spa pool and Nordic-inspired sauna offer a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a lavish wedding celebration, the Hewing Hotel is the perfect destination for a luxurious and unforgettable experience.
The Four Seasons Hotel in Minneapolis is a luxurious and elegant option for couples planning their elopement. The hotel features stunning views of the city skyline, and its modern design creates an atmosphere of sophistication and comfort.
I photographed an elopement that used Four Seasons to get ready in and stay for their elopement weekend getaway.
There are many great options for where to stay during your Minnesota elopement, depending on your preferences and location. From secluded cabins to urban hotels, there is something for every couple.
Staying in a cabin on the shores of a lake can offer a quiet and intimate setting, perfect for couples who want to get away from it all. For those who prefer the city, boutique hotels like Hotel Alma or the Hewing Hotel offer luxurious accommodations with access to all the city has to offer.
No matter where you choose to stay, be sure to take advantage of all the natural beauty Minnesota has to offer. From state parks to scenic drives, there is no shortage of stunning locations for your elopement.
By working with an experienced elopement photographer like myself, you can ensure that your special day is captured perfectly, from start to finish. Contact me to learn more about my photography services and how I can help you plan the elopement of your dreams in Minnesota!
I also travel all over the country and across the oceans for elopements! Follow along on Instagram, TikTok, check out my website or just reach out to learn more about my travel schedule!
There is no better time than now to get started on planning your elopement in Minnesota! I would love to help you photograph this special day! Your photos are what you will hang up in your home together, look at in albums that sit on your coffee table, and what you’ll share for generations to come. Reach out to me via the contact form on my website and let’s chat!
Other helpful resources for planning your Minnesota elopement:
Follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest for inspiration for your Minnesota elopement.