When it comes to eloping in Florida, most people envision a romantic beach ceremony at sunset with the waves crashing in the background and cheesy AF portraits. Not around here, fam. While beach weddings are largely popular, Florida offers tons of alternative options that are just as epic. If you’re seeking an amazing elopement experience that has ZERO to do with the beach, here are some non-beach ideas for eloping in Florida.

For the skimmer, here’s the recap list:

• Botanical Gardens
• Historical Landmarks
• Natural Springs
• Breweries
• Urban Landmarks
• State Parks
• Art Museums
• Boats

If you’re starting to plan your elopement and feeling super overwhelmed, I’m here to help. Part of my elopement experience is guiding couples throughout the elopement planning process by providing guides, vendor recommendations, location assistance, planning guidance, and all the help to make this as stress-free as possible. If that sounds like a total dream, check out my Florida elopement packages, and let’s start planning this thang!

Botanical Gardens

Immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of Florida’s botanical gardens. Picture exchanging your vows surrounded by lush greenery and tropical flowers. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables and Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando are just a couple of examples.

Another option in centeral Florida is Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, with its serene surroundings and enchanting carillon tower, it provides an idyllic setting for an intimate ceremony. For those in the Fort Lauderdale area, the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens offers a picturesque location with its eclectic mix of art, architecture, and natural beauty. Meanwhile, the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion in Sarasota offers a touch of glamour and grandeur. If you’re looking for more lowkey, relaxed vibes, the McKee Botanical Garden in Vero Beach offers a botanical oasis.

Historic Landmarks

Experience the old-world charm of Florida’s historic districts. St. Augustine’s historic district, with its cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture, this city provides a romantic setting filled with TONS of history. Ybor City in Tampa offers a vibrant atmosphere with its rich cultural heritage, while the Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach showcases iconic architecture from the 1920s and 1930s.

Other amazing historical landmarks include the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine, or the magnificent Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami. Alternatively, the Ringling Museum in Sarasota boasts stunning grounds that blend art and culture seamlessly.

Springs

Escape to the natural wonders of Florida’s enchanting springs. Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation. Ichetucknee Springs and Ginnie Springs offer captivating locations where you can embrace the beauty of nature and create unforgettable memories.

Breweries

For beer-loving couples, eloping at a brewery in Florida just hits right! Many breweries offer stylish taprooms or outdoor spaces that can be transformed into an intimate wedding setting like Coppertail Brewing Company (Tampa, Florida). Consider breweries like Cigar City Brewing in Tampa, Funky Buddha Brewery in Oakland Park, or Concrete Beach Brewery in Miami, where you can enjoys tons of amazing local beers in a laid-back atmosphere. Fun fact – I’m a self-proclaimed beer connoisseur and help all my couples find the best spots in their elopement location!

Urban Landmarks

For couples who want those urban vibes, Florida’s cities offer iconic landmarks as epic backdrops to your elopement. From historic theaters, art districts, downtown streets, and huge murals, we got it all. My favorite cities for those urban (yet Florida-esque) vibes are downtown Miami, Tampa, Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Jacksonville!

State Parks

Immerse yourselves in Florida’s state parks with views that only Florida is known for. From the Everglades National Park to the Myakka River State Park or Ocala National Forest, these natural sanctuaries provide the perfect backdrop for nature-loving couples.

Art Museums

Add some art to your elopement by eloping at one of Florida’s renowned art museums. The Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg showcases surrealist masterpieces, while the Pérez Art Museum Miami boasts contemporary art against the backdrop of Biscayne Bay. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota offers an exquisite blend of art, architecture, and botanical gardens. Maybe the museum part isn’t your vibe? Florida has tons of art districts with murals that bring that pop of art right into your Florida elopement!

Boats

Okay hear me out – you get the views of the ocean WITHOUT the beach with a Florida boat elopement! This is Florida’s version of an adventure elopement and one of my favorites. Whether it’s a sailboat, a luxury yacht, or a charter boat, exchanging your vows surrounded by the serene waters of Florida adds a touch of adventure and intimacy you can’t get on land. Consider eloping aboard in locations like the Treasure Coast, the Florida Keys, the scenic St. Johns River in Jacksonville, or the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale.

Ready to start planning your non-beach Florida elopement?

If you’re starting to plan your elopement and feeling super overwhelmed, I’m here to help. Part of my elopement experience is guiding couples throughout the elopement planning process by providing guides, vendor recommendations, location assistance, planning guidance, and all the help to make this as stress-free as possible. If that sounds like a total dream, check out my Florida elopement packages, and let’s start planning this thang!