New York, New York
Are you ready to hit the Big Apple? Make sure you bring your camera! The newly renovated NYC Marriage Bureau (shown here) is located in the downtown New York neighborhood of Tribeca—an ideal spot if you want to head over to the Brooklyn Bridge or down to Battery Park for some amazing waterfront pictures. After you’ve said “I do,” you can celebrate at the nearest four-star restaurant or hop a cab to Midtown for a photo op at landmarks like the Empire State Building, Grand Central and Rockefeller Center.
Where: The newly renovated Office of the City Clerk, 141 Worth St.
Why: If the recent $12 million renovation doesn’t win you over, the high-tech service, modern chapels and on-site flower shop most definitely will.
Cost: $60 ($35 for the marriage license; $25 for the ceremony) cash or credit
Website: NYC.gov
Las Vegas, Nevada
Viva Las Vegas! It’s not surprising that Sin City is the number one place to elope in the US—it’s one of the easiest cities to get married in! There’s no blood test or waiting period to exchange vows here, and the local attractions make for a fun weekend wedding adventure. Between the casinos, the hot shows on the strip and the over-the-top luxury hotels, you’ll be set for a swingin’ adventure!
Where: Office of Civil Marriages, 309 S. 3rd St.
Why: There’s no blood test or waiting period requirements, so if you want a spur-of-the-moment ceremony, it’s totally doable. (Just make sure you have a witness.) Once you’ve gotten your license from the Marriage Bureau, you can head over to the Office of Civil Marriages where you’ll exchange vows beneath a greenery-covered arch.
Cost: $55 cash for license; $50 for ceremony
Website: AccessClarkCounty.com
San Francisco, California
Famous for its steep hills and cable cars, San Francisco is truly a cultural haven. Although a little pricier than the other City Hall locations, it’s definitely worth it if you plan an amazing weekend you can enjoy after the wedding: There’s the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the fantastic Pacific cuisine. After you’ve spent some time in the city, you can always drive to Napa Valley for a few days of wine tasting or up to Lake Tahoe for some skiing.
Where: San Francisco County Clerk, City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Pl.
Why: The process of getting your license is fairly simple—all you have to do is choose one of two locations for your ceremony: a private room or the elegant City Hall Rotunda. If you want something a little fancier, you can rent the City Hall Rotunda for two hours for $4,000 (price includes an event manager, tables and chairs for up to 200 people).
Cost: $93 for license; $70 for ceremony
Website: SFGov.org