Should I Get Married in Yosemite?

Yosemite National Park is quickly becoming a hot wedding destination, and anyone who has been to the beautiful park will understand why. For people who appreciate nature, breathtaking views, and providing a fun and experience-rich destination for their wedding guests, Yosemite is an outstanding choice. However, it isn’t necessarily the right fit for everyone. 

Pros and Cons of Getting Married in the Park

There’s so much to consider when planning a wedding: you only do it once and it has to be just right, so it’s important to make sure the location is in line with your vision for your perfect day. Let’s explore some pros and cons of choosing Yosemite. 

Pros:

• Originality: having a wedding in such a beautiful, historic place will be memorable for sure.
• Bucket List Destination: Yosemite is a place many people dream of visiting. What better reason than to watch you marry the love of your life? Who wouldn’t want a reason to come visit the stunning park?
• Expertise: there are countless wedding venues in and around Yosemite that specialize in creating spectacular, flawless weddings. You are guaranteed to be in good hands no matter which venue you choose. 
• Scenery: think of the wedding photos you would have with mountains and waterfalls in the background, your closest loved ones laughing surrounded by a one-in-a-million view.  

Cons:

• Travel: not everyone can easily travel to Yosemite, especially if they live far away.
• Weather: conditions can be volatile, there is always the small risk your day could be impacted. 
• Restrictions: some venues in the park have a limit on how many attendees you can have, and how late you can play music. 

Is Yosemite your Dream Wedding Venue? 

Amazing! There are plenty of options to plan the perfect wedding in and near Yosemite, whether you are planning a smaller, more intimate ceremony, or an all-out bash. Here are some of the top wedding venues in Yosemite:

The Lodge at Two Moons (Indoor and Outdoor Options)

This stunning event and wedding space sits on 100 acres of land just 30 minutes from Yosemite National Park. Per their website: “In the expansive spaces of The Lodge At Two Moons, the only limit is what you can dream up. From intimate gatherings to weddings of five hundred or more, our experienced staff will help guide the planning of your special day, ensuring it is as unique as your love story.” The Lodge at Two Moons has an on-site catering team and the various spaces on the property are sure to guarantee you find what you’re looking for. 

The Ahwahnee Hotel (Indoor and Outdoor Options)

The Ahwahnee Hotel is a National Historic Landmark and a AAA Four-Diamond Hotel located in the heart of Yosemite National Park. The hotel was carefully designed to illustrate the majesty of the park, with views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Glacier Point. The stunning views and elegant details notwithstanding, the hotel also contains a Solarium with huge windows where you can enjoy a four-course meal after the ceremony. Featuring beautiful architecture and well-appointed rooms, a wedding at this hotel will be unforgettable. The hotel is appropriate for weddings of up to 150 people.

Yosemite Valley Lodge (Reception Only; Indoor Only)

This beautiful Yosemite National Park venue is the closest property to Yosemite Falls. Yosemite Valley Lodge is ideal for a reception following a wedding ceremony at one of the many picturesque areas within the park. Wedding Spot adds: “Landscaping of indigenous trees, shrubs and wildflowers further reflect the natural beauty of Yosemite Valley and make an unforgettable venue for the best day of your life.” Yosemite Valley Lodge can accommodate up to 125 guests. 

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite (Indoor and Outdoor Options)

Two miles from the southern gate of Yosemite National Park, Tenaya Lodge is another wonderful option. Wedding website The Knot offers this description: “Generations of visitors have come to marvel at the beauty of the park and its many distinctive and breathtaking features. The Mariposa Grove is comprised of approximately 500 mature giant sequoia trees, some of which are thought to predate the zenith of the Roman Empire.” With 48 acres and numerous event spaces, this venue can accommodate up to 400 wedding guests. 

Rush Creek Lodge (Indoor/Outdoor Options)

Rush Creek Lodge is another great reception option for those getting married inside Yosemite National Park. Wedding Spot paints a glowing picture: “Conveniently located at the doorstep of Yosemite National Park, it is the perfect destination for your dream wedding and honeymoon. Relaxing and sophisticated, the Lodge offers tastefully appointed rooms, suites and hillside villas that overlook nature and sunset views and the amenities are outstanding.” The Lodge can accommodate up to 200 guests. 

Lillaskog Lodge (Outdoor Only)

Lillaskog Lodge, just 11 miles from Yosemite National Park, accommodates up to 150 attendees. The Knot details: “Sitting on 30 acres of lush land, Lillaskog Lodge is an ideal location for couples seeking a tranquil, private place to exchange their vows. The open event lawn features a charming gazebo surrounded by vibrant gardens, which you can use as your ceremony altar. The picturesque views, cozy accommodations, and multiple outdoor event spaces will add an unforgettable touch to your special day.”

These are only a small sample of the many gorgeous, well-equipped venues to choose from when you’re planning your Yosemite wedding. Options abound for everything from a cozier, less formal event to an all-out bash with hundreds of guests. Whichever you choose, Scenic Wonders has you covered for lodging within the park. 

Book Your Cozy Accommodations in the Park 

Look no further for your ideal Yosemite National Park lodging - call Yosemite’s Scenic Wonders at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) or browse our rental options here to begin planning your dream getaway. Scenic Wonders offers quality home, condo, and cabin rentals inside the Park at unbeatable prices.