If you’re thinking about eloping in Texas, Austin offers some of the most flexible and meaningful options. With a mix of Hill Country views, modern spaces, and creative energy, Austin elopement locations allow couples to build a day that feels intentional rather than traditional. My biggest advice is to plan around how you want the day to feel, not how it should look. Elopements move slowly and naturally, often unfolding in between moments. Austin supports that flow beautifully. With the right planning and location, your elopement can feel grounded, personal, and entirely your own.

What to Know About Eloping in Austin

Eloping in Austin gives you a lot of freedom, but there are still a few important logistics to plan for. Knowing what to expect ahead of time helps your day feel relaxed instead of rushed.

What Are the Best Months for Eloping in Austin?

The most popular months for Austin elopements are October through April. Fall brings cooler temperatures and golden light, while spring offers wildflowers and comfortable evenings. Summer elopements are possible, but Texas heat can be intense, especially for outdoor locations. If you’re planning a summer elopement, indoor venues or early-morning ceremonies tend to work best.

How Do We Get a Marriage License in Austin?

Marriage licenses are issued through Travis County. Both partners must appear in person, bring valid photo identification, and pay the required fee. Texas also has a 72-hour waiting period between receiving your license and getting married, unless you qualify for an exemption. It’s best to apply a few days before your elopement to avoid stress.

Are Permits Required for Certain Austin Elopement Locations?

Yes, some Austin elopement locations require permits, especially public spaces like parks, preserves, or rooftops. Requirements vary by location, and availability can be limited. Always check ahead and factor permits into your planning timeline. Having help with this step can save time and prevent last-minute issues.

What Should I Wear When Eloping? What Should I Bring?

Wear something that feels like you, but also consider comfort and weather. Breathable fabrics, comfortable shoes, and layers are helpful for Austin’s changing temperatures. Bring water, sunscreen, touch-up items, and any meaningful details you want included in your day, like vows or rings.

Should I Get a Hotel or an Airbnb?

Austin offers plenty of both. Hotels are great if you want convenience and amenities, while Airbnbs provide privacy and space to relax. Some favorite options include The Carpenter Hotel, Hotel Ella, The Bloomhouse, and East Side Beehive. Choose what supports the pace and experience you want for your elopement.

What to Consider When Hiring a Photographer for Your Elopement

Photography is one of the most important investments you’ll make for your elopement. It becomes the main way you remember and share your wedding day. Because elopements are largely unstructured, it’s essential to choose a photographer who specializes in candid or documentary-style photography. These days aren’t about staged moments, but about how everything naturally unfolds. You should also feel comfortable with your photographer on a personal level. They’ll be with you all day, so connection and trust matter just as much as skill.

Photographers who specialize in elopements may also have planning help built into their pricing, so keep that in mind too.

Best Austin Elopement Locations

Austin offers an incredible range of elopement locations, from intimate chapels to dramatic natural settings and modern architectural spaces. Below are some of the most popular and well-loved Austin elopement locations, along with advice to help you decide what fits your vision best.

Chapel Dulcinea

Chapel Dulcinea is a Spanish-inspired stone chapel located in South Austin with sweeping Hill Country views. It’s one of the most iconic places to elope in Austin — and it’s free to reserve during weekday daytime hours. Evening and weekend reservations range from $500 to $1,000, depending on privacy and timing.

My advice: Book early and check the online calendar often. This location has become extremely popular, especially for weekday elopements.

Sekrit Theater

Sekrit Theater offers one of the most unique elopement settings in Austin. Think greenhouse structures, eclectic gardens, and creative, modern vibes.

My advice: Lean into the location’s personality. This space works best when you keep the day relaxed and let the environment speak for itself.

Austin Public Library Rooftop Garden

For literature lovers, the Austin Public Library rooftop garden offers downtown views and clean, architectural lines. Rentals start around $300, making it an accessible option.

My advice: Plan for timing. Sunset ceremonies here are beautiful but book quickly and require permits.

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Hamilton Pool is known for its dramatic waterfall and limestone grotto just outside Austin. Reservations and modest fees are required.

My advice: Keep things simple. This location shines with intimate ceremonies and minimal guest counts.

Lincoln Chapel

Lincoln Chapel is a striking white chapel perfect for modern, editorial elopements. It also provides shade and relief from the Texas heat.

My advice: This is a great option if you want a chapel feel without sacrificing clean, contemporary design.

Austin Elopement Packages

My Austin elopement packages are designed to support your day without overcomplicating it. For couples who want guidance, packages include planning meetings with unlimited calls and texts, plus a curated timeline that covers vendors, travel, lodging, and activities. I also handle logistics like permits and other behind-the-scenes details so you don’t have to.

Photography coverage ranges from 4 to 8 hours, giving your elopement room to unfold naturally. You’ll receive a digital gallery for printing and sharing, along with Polaroids to have in hand the night of your elopement. Photographer travel is always included, with no hidden fees.

If you don’t need planning support, I also offer flat-rate photography-only elopement options. 

Full planning Austin elopement pricing begins at $2,800.

Recommended Austin Elopement Activities

One of the best parts of eloping in Austin is how easy it is to turn your wedding day into a full experience. Whether you want something adventurous, relaxed, or food-focused, the city offers plenty of ways to celebrate beyond the ceremony itself.

A vintage boat ride on Lady Bird Lake is a favorite for couples who want a slow, scenic way to enjoy the city together. If you prefer something more active, paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake is a fun option, especially in the early morning or golden hour.

For couples who love nightlife, speakeasy bar hopping adds a playful, celebratory feel to the evening. Food lovers may enjoy a five-star Japanese cuisine tour or keeping things casual with a pizzeria and ice cream shop date.

You can also rent out a private space in your favorite local restaurant and host a relaxed celebration with friends and family after your vows.

How to Book Me as Your Elopement Photographer

If you’re planning an elopement in Austin and want photography that feels natural, honest, and story-driven, I’d love to connect. To get started, contact me here and tell me what you’re dreaming up. From there, we’ll hop on a call to talk through your vision, priorities, and ideal timeline.

Once booked, I’ll curate a personalized Austin elopement location guide filled with location ideas, vendor recommendations, lodging options, and planning tips tailored to your day. If you don’t need planning support, I also offer flat-rate photography-only elopement options with no additional fees.

Whether you want help shaping the entire experience or simply documenting it as it unfolds, I’m here to support you every step of the way!