The Top 20 Wedding Venues in Estes Park
Planning your dream wedding in the heart of the Rockies? Estes Park, Colorado, offers some of the most stunning wedding venues that cater to every couple’s vision. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand outdoor ceremony with panoramic mountain views, searching for an affordable venue that doesn’t compromise on beauty, seeking a cozy space for an intimate gathering, or even considering a free outdoor location surrounded by nature’s splendor, Estes Park has it all. In this guide, we’ll explore the best wedding venues in Estes Park, Colorado, showcasing a variety of options to help you find the perfect spot to say “I do” in this picturesque mountain town.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Outdoor Wedding Venues in Estes Park
- Small Wedding Venues in Estes Park
- Affordable Wedding Venues in Estes Park
- Free, Outdoor Wedding Venues in Estes Park
Outdoor Wedding Venues in Estes Park, Colorado
Black Canyon Inn
Black Canyon Inn is a picturesque wedding venue in Estes Park, featuring breathtaking views of Twin Owls and Lumpy Ridge. The venue offers multiple ceremony sites, including an outdoor pavilion (The Homestead) and an indoor site (The Boulders). Both ceremony sites offer mountain views. Rentals include exclusive use of the site, tables, chairs, and access to a bridal suite. The venue can be rented for the entire day, allowing for a stress-free celebration.
Prices range from $$5,000 – $16,500, depending on the season and specific requirements. With a maximum guest count of 200, Black Canyon Inn is available year-round. This venue is perfect for couples who desire a rustic yet elegant wedding with the majestic Rocky Mountains as their backdrop.
You can read more about a full wedding day at The Boulders at Black Canyon Inn in my blog post here!
Wild Basin Lodge
Wild Basin Lodge is a breathtaking wedding venue located in Allenspark, right outside Estes Park, offering an unparalleled setting with stunning views of Mount Meeker and the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park. The venue provides two gorgeous outdoor ceremony sites: one along the St. Vrain River and another in a scenic meadow surrounded by towering pines. Included in the venue rental are exclusive use of the property, setup and breakdown services, tables, chairs, and linens. You can rent the lodge for the entire day, ensuring plenty of time for a relaxed celebration.
The cost ranges from $6,000 to $12,000, depending on the season and day of the week. Wild Basin Lodge can accommodate up to 200 guests and is available year-round, making it perfect for those who dream of a snowy winter wedding or a vibrant summer celebration. This venue is ideal for nature-loving couples who want an intimate yet expansive setting with the option to host both the ceremony and reception in one beautiful location.
Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Della Terra Mountain Chateau is a luxurious wedding venue nestled at the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, offering panoramic views of the Continental Divide and surrounding peaks. The venue boasts several ceremony sites, including an outdoor terrace with mountain views and an indoor space with large windows. The rental includes use of the entire property, a bridal suite, a groom’s suite, tables, chairs, and linens.
You can rent the venue for the entire day or for shorter time frames depending on their needs. Pricing varies from $8,000 to $14,000, influenced by the season and day of the week. Della Terra can host up to 200 guests and is available year-round. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive wedding experience with the backdrop of Colorado’s majestic mountains.
YMCA of The Rockies
YMCA of the Rockies offers a versatile and family-friendly wedding venue in Estes Park, surrounded by the grandeur of Rocky Mountain National Park with views of Longs Peak and the Continental Divide. Ceremony sites include a charming chapel and multiple outdoor locations with stunning mountain vistas. The rental includes use of the ceremony site, chairs, and tables, with additional amenities like lodging and catering available on-site. Venue rental costs range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the chosen site and services. With the ability to host up to 300 guests, the YMCA is open year-round, making it suitable for any season.
Note: The Overlook Chapel is open Memorial Day through October but the Sarah Smith Chapel is open year round. This venue is ideal for couples looking for a budget-friendly option with extensive accommodations and activities for guests.
The Stanley Hotel
The Stanley Hotel is an iconic and historic wedding venue in Estes Park, offering sweeping views of Rocky Mountain National Park and Longs Peak. Ceremony sites include the stunning Pavilion and outdoor lawn with panoramic mountain views. Rentals include exclusive use of the chosen spaces, tables, chairs, linens, and setup services. The venue is available for full-day rentals, ensuring ample time for a luxurious celebration.
Costs range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the season and specific needs. The Stanley Hotel can accommodate up to 300 guests and is available year-round. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a historic and elegant setting with world-class service and amenities.
The Landing at Estes Park
The Landing at Estes Park is a charming riverside wedding venue offering intimate ceremony sites with views of the Big Thompson River and surrounding mountains. The venue includes a lovely outdoor lawn and a cozy indoor space. Rentals encompass the use of the site, tables, chairs, and setup services. The Landing can be rented for half-day or full-day events, with prices ranging from $2,500 to $6,000. It can accommodate up to 100 guests and is available from May through October. This venue is ideal for couples looking for a romantic and intimate setting with a focus on natural beauty.
The Cheley Lodge and Grove
The Cheley Lodge and Grove is a rustic and charming wedding venue in Estes Park, set within a lush forested area with views of the Rocky Mountains. The venue features outdoor ceremony sites surrounded by towering pines and a historic lodge for receptions. Rentals include use of the lodge, outdoor areas, tables, chairs, and basic setup services. The venue can be rented for the entire day, with prices ranging from $3,000 to $7,000. It accommodates up to 150 guests and is available from mid-August to mid-October. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a rustic, camp-like atmosphere with plenty of natural charm.
Taharaa Mountain Lodge
Taharaa Mountain Lodge is a beautiful wedding venue in Estes Park, providing breathtaking views of the Continental Divide and Twin Sisters Peaks. The venue offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony sites, including a deck with panoramic views and a cozy indoor lodge. Rentals include use of the venue, tables, chairs, and linens, as well as access to a bridal suite. The venue can be rented for the entire day, with costs ranging from $4,000 to $10,000. It can accommodate up to 150 guests and is available year-round. This venue is ideal for couples looking for a blend of rustic elegance and stunning mountain scenery.
O’Connor Pavilion
O’Connor Pavilion is a scenic outdoor wedding venue in Estes Park, surrounded by the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park with views of Longs Peak and Mount Meeker. The venue features a charming open-air pavilion and an expansive lawn area. Rentals include use of the pavilion, tables, chairs, and basic setup services. The pavilion can be rented for half-day or full-day events, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $4,000. It can accommodate up to 200 guests and is available from May through October. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a casual and picturesque outdoor setting for their wedding.
Venue On The Rocks
Venue On The Rocks (located at Coffee On The Rocks) is a charming wedding venue located in Estes Park, Colorado, nestled beside a tranquil pond with beautiful views of the surrounding Rocky Mountain scenery. The venue offers a picturesque outdoor ceremony site on the lawn by the water, creating a serene and intimate atmosphere for your special day. Rentals include use of the outdoor space, tables, chairs, and basic setup services.
Couples can rent the venue for half-day or full-day events, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $3,500 depending on the duration and specific needs. The venue can accommodate up to 75 guests and is available from May through October. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a cozy and intimate setting with the added charm of a quaint coffee shop, providing a unique and relaxed environment for their wedding celebration.
You can see more of a styled fall wedding at Venue On The Rocks here!
Dao House
Dao House is a serene and tranquil wedding venue in Estes Park, set amidst the natural beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park with views of Longs Peak. The venue offers multiple outdoor ceremony sites surrounded by nature and an indoor lodge for receptions. Rentals include use of the ceremony and reception sites, tables, chairs, and linens. The venue can be rented for the entire day, with prices ranging from $3,000 to $8,000. It can accommodate up to 150 guests and is available year-round. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a peaceful and secluded setting with a focus on wellness and natural beauty.
The View at Crag’s Lodge
The View at Crag’s Lodge is a historic wedding venue in Estes Park, offering panoramic views of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Continental Divide. The venue features a beautiful outdoor ceremony site and a charming indoor lodge with large windows. Rentals include use of the venue, tables, chairs, linens, and setup services. The venue can be rented for full-day events, with costs ranging from $4,000 to $10,000. It accommodates up to 150 guests and is available year-round. This venue is ideal for couples looking for a historic and scenic setting with excellent amenities.
The Estes Park Resort
The Estes Park Resort is a luxurious waterfront wedding venue located on the shores of Lake Estes, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and Longs Peak. The venue features beautiful outdoor ceremony sites by the lake and elegant indoor spaces for receptions. Rentals include use of the ceremony and reception sites, tables, chairs, linens, and setup services. The resort can be rented for full-day events, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. It can accommodate up to 200 guests and is available year-round. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a sophisticated and scenic lakeside setting with top-notch amenities and services.
Small Wedding Venues in Estes Park, Colorado
Planning a simple day with your friends and family? Estes Park has a few small wedding venues that may be perfect for you!
Bristlecone Inn
Bristlecone Inn is a charming, intimate wedding venue in Estes Park that provides you with the best of both worlds. You get the privacy of an exclusive venue with the service of a world class restaurant. Bristlecone Inn can host you and up to 60 guests. For more information, check out their website!
Romantic Riversong Inn
A charming, cottage-core inspired wedding venue with a romantic stream running right through it. I may be biased because I got married here myself, but this is truly the perfect venue for an intimate Estes Park wedding. They offer packages from ceremony only (starting at $495) to a grand elopement experience ($4,495) including a 3 night stay, cake, champagne, florals, charcuterie, a keepsake picnic, handmade mugs, coordination, and a certificate for a 2 night stay on your anniversary!
To inquire, head to their website here. Photography is not included in their packages, so if you decide this is the venue for you, I would love to capture your special day at Romantic Riversong Inn! You can reach out to me here.
Affordable Wedding Venues in Estes Park, Colorado
If you are dreaming of an outdoor mountain wedding, but a traditional venue isn’t in your plans, I have good news for you. You can get married in the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park for just $300. What’s the catch? You have to apply for a permit through the national park and they can sell out quickly. But rightfully so; everyone wants to get married here!
Rocky Mountain National Park has a few different dedicated ceremony sites you can rent for up to 2 hours. The maximum guest count, including you and your vendors, ranges from 15-30 people. However, if you are officially eloping in the park (exchanging your vows and not just taking portraits) then you will also need to apply for the ceremony permit. Your permit does not guarantee exclusive access of the site as the park is still open to the public, but people are generally respectful of your space when they see a ceremony.
You can read more about how to apply for your Rocky Mountain National Park wedding permit here.
Sprague Lake
Sprague Lake is a picturesque ceremony site in Rocky Mountain National Park, accommodating up to 15 people. It features a dock and offers stunning views of the Continental Divide, including Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. The trail around Sprague Lake is easy, flat and wheelchair accessible. The entire trail is 0.8 miles. Restrooms are available in the parking lot! This location can get very busy in peak season, so I definitely recommend carpooling and arriving earlier than you think you need to.
3M Curve
3M Curve can host ceremonies for up to 15 people and provides a panoramic view of Longs Peak, Estes Cone, and the Continental Divide. There is limited parking at this site; you will pull up and park in a pull off area on the side of the road. With this site rental, you are limited to 3 cars max in your group.
Unfortunately, restrooms are not available directly at the site. 3M Curve is ideal for couples seeking a more intimate and less crowded setting, with the dramatic mountain scenery providing a stunning backdrop. To reach 3M Curve, guests should be prepared for a short walk from the parking area, and it’s advisable to bring water and sun protection due to the exposed location.
Here are the coordinates for 3M Curve: 40°22’50.3″N 105°36’13.3″W
Lily Lake
Lily Lake accommodates ceremonies with up to 20 people on the trail or 10 people on the dock. I recommend the romantic dock! This site offers beautiful views of Twin Sisters Peaks and Longs Peak. After your ceremony, we can explore the 0.8-mile loop trail around the lake. It is relatively flat and provides several scenic spots perfect for photos. If you’re up for a little adventure, there’s a secluded, scenic overlook we can walk a few extra minutes to before completing the loop!
Restrooms and a parking lot are conveniently located near the lake, making it accessible for guests. You can literally see the lake when you park! The parking lot is quite small, but less trafficked than other areas of the park. I always suggest carpooling to make parking easier and stay within your max vehicle limit.
I recommend planning your ceremony for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday crowds and take advantage of the soft, natural lighting for photography. Rest assured, no matter what time of day you are able to secure your reservation for, we’ll create beautiful imagery that captures the joy of it all!
Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley is a versatile site allowing for larger groups of up to 30 people. It features views of surrounding forested mountains and offers a more secluded, private atmosphere. The area has a rich history as a former ski resort, and the open meadow provides ample space for various ceremony setups. Restrooms and a large parking lot are available, making it easily accessible for guests. For those interested in incorporating a hike into their wedding day, there are several nearby trails to explore before or after the ceremony.
Upper Beaver Meadows
Upper Beaver Meadows can host ceremonies for up to 30 people and offers a serene setting with views of the Continental Divide and Moraine Park. The meadow provides a natural, ethereal backdrop for your ceremony and photos. Parking is available, but there are no restroom facilities on-site, so you and your guests should plan accordingly. This site is perfect for couples looking for a quiet and scenic spot, with the open meadow providing a sense of vastness and tranquility. Wildlife such as elk and deer are often seen in the area, adding to the natural Rocky Mountain charm of the location.
Hermit Park Pavilion
If you want to avoid the crowds in Rocky Mountain National Park, you can also check out The Hermit Park Pavilion located in Hermit Park Open Space. This is a beautiful outdoor pavilion next to a lush meadow that can accommodate up to 150 guests. To inquire, you can email the park at parksoffice@larimer.org with your name, event type, date, phone number, and any questions.
Free, Outdoor Wedding Venues in Estes Park, Colorado
Having an intimate ceremony with just a few of your loved ones? Or planning to privately elope? Great news – there are a few places where you can get married for free in Estes Park! All that’s required is a Larimer County Photography permit. Don’t worry, I already have mine and there’s no extra cost to you!
The photography permit covers ceremonies including up to 20 people, but does not reserve any specific site for your celebration.
Hermit Park Open Space
Within Hermit Park Open Space, there are many picturesque spots to say I do. If you’re down for a hike, my personal favorite is a lookout point on Kruger Rock Trail! With just a half mile trek, you’re greeted with sweeping views of the mountains and town of Estes. In the fall, the aspen trees are glowing and make the most gorgeous backdrop for your intimate ceremony. This location is also dog-friendly, so your pups could join in on the fun! They must be leashed at all times, so be sure to get them a cute one and a matching collar so they look their best in photos too.
You can read all about a stunning fall elopement I captured at Hermit Park Open Space here!
Knoll-Willows Open Space
Knoll-Willows is located just across the street from the Stanley Hotel. Here, you’ll feel like you’re deep in the mountains without the extra time or effort to get there. There’s a mid-size parking lot with plenty of room for you and your guests’ vehicles. With a short walk around the loop trail, you’ll experience 360 mountain views and truly immerse yourself in the beauty of Estes Park. There is no parking or entrance fee nor reservation required. Unfortunately, pups aren’t allowed here, so you’ll have to leave them at home.
Estes Park Wedding Photographer
Once you’ve decided on your Estes Park wedding venue, I’d love to hear all about it (and document it all)! Hi, I’m Logan, an Estes Park Wedding Photographer who puts your experience above all else. While creating beautiful imagery is the end goal here, you’re getting so much more along the way. As your photographer, my approach is rooted in serving you, honoring your vision, and celebrating the heck out of you. It’s my mission to serve you well and together, we’ll create wedding photos that are anything but ordinary and totally and completely you.
If you are interested in having me capture your Estes Park wedding, you can read more about my services here and then reach out to me to officially get started!
