sunflowers against a blue sky at dogwood farms in belews creek, nc

Best Places to Elope in Winston-Salem, NC (with Local Tips)

Elopement

Donnaha Valley Farm wedding — Donnaha Valley Farm

couple on their wedding day at the arbors events in cleveland, nc — The Arbors Events

dogwood farms in belews creek at sunset in the field of blue larkspur — Dogwood Farms

the graylyn estate front entrance — The Graylyn Estate

Where to Elope in Winston-Salem, NC: A Local Photographer’s Guide to Scenic & Unique Spots

Planning a small wedding or elopement in the Winston-Salem area? Whether you’re envisioning garden views, a cityscape, rolling vineyards, or mountaintop backdrops, this city has a surprising mix of gorgeous locations for couples who want to do things their own way. If you’ve been searching “Winston-Salem elopement locations” or wondering about the best places to elope near the Triad, you’re in the right place.

Hi, I’m Jenny — photographer, planner, and founder of Golden Hour Elopements. With 17+ years of wedding photography experience and a background in photojournalism, I help couples have a stress-free, laid-back elopement day that feels beautiful and intentional. We offer all-inclusive elopement packages that can include everything from planning, the officiant, photography, video, florals, cake, charcuterie, video and more.

I have lived in North Carolina for 23 years, worked for two different elopement companies in Asheville, and I eloped myself before I started my own elopement company here in the Triad. Eloping sounds easy, but there are actually quite a few things to pull together to make it a seamless experience. Our experienced, friendly team is focused on helping you have a magical, stress-free elopement.

tulip magnolia in full bloom at the Tanglewood Park Arboretum in Forsyth County NC — Tanglewood Park

couple amongst the grapevines on their wedding day at round peak vineyard in mount airy — Round Peak Vineyards

Shacktown Falls in north carolina — Shacktown Falls

elopement ceremony site along the river at elkin creek vineyards — Elkin Creek Vineyards

Feeling overwhelmed by all the location options, sea of vendors to sift through, and figuring out whether you need a permit, how much it all costs, etc.? I’m here to help lead you through. Fill out my contact form, and I will send you a questionnaire to get an idea of what you are picturing for your elopement. I will send you location suggestions and package options tailored specifically for you.

Relax and do what brings you joy! Take a deep breath and know we’ve got your back. Let us plan the whole thing for you, assemble a bad ass team, and lead you through one of the best days of your lives. You just show up, put on your awesome outfits, get married, and enjoy incredible photos and video so you can remember it forever, and share it with your families and friends!

We especially love working with blended families—with or without your kids—and we understand that every love story looks different. I’m divorced and remarried to my forever husband, and I believe deeply in celebrating all kinds of beginnings. No judgment here—just support, experience, and a whole lot of joy in helping you create an amazing elopement day that feels right for you. If you’re thinking about bringing your kids along, let me know—I’ve got four of my own and can suggest kid-friendly locations that are beautiful, manageable, and fun for everyone involved. We also have dog-friendly packages that include a dog cake, treats, and a dedicated helper to watch over your pup when you’re busy taking photos.

couple kissing on their wedding day while holding their dog at round peak vineyard in mt. airy — Round Peak Vineyard

If you’re looking for the best elopement spots in Winston-Salem, or you’re hoping to plan an intimate wedding in North Carolina that feels relaxed and meaningful, check out this curated list of our favorite locations—organized by distance from downtown Winston-Salem:

1. The Courthouse

Just kidding!!! There are SO many amazing places you can get married around Winston-Salem. The Forsyth County courthouse is not a happy place. While a courthouse elopement may seem like the easiest route, it often lacks the feeling and flexibility that make elopements so special. You deserve more than fluorescent lights and a rushed five-minute ceremony. Choosing a meaningful location—whether it’s a mountaintop, vineyard, or flower-filled field—adds depth, beauty, and intention to your day. With a little planning, you can still keep things simple and have a celebration that feels like a true reflection of your relationship. We can help you find the perfect place for your elopement based on your budget and time frame. We have even planned a beautiful vineyard elopement in less than 4 days, which is quicker than you can do at the courthouse! Take it from someone who has eloped at the courthouse before… it’s not that great.

2. The Graylyn Estate

A historic estate with stone archways, garden paths, and old-world charm. It feels tucked away, but it’s right in the heart of Winston. You can stay overnight, and have a delicious private meal for you and your guests.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: Yes (for guests and private dining)
Overnight Lodging: Yes

elopement at the graylyn estate in winston salem during the fall

beautiful room inside the graylyn estate in winston salem nc

side view of the graylyn estate in winston salem nc

3. The Barn at Reynolda Village

A nature-filled escape with formal Reynolda Gardens, wooded trails, and upscale bright white barn vibes. Gorgeous all times of year. They have a bridal suite with beautiful window light and exposed brick walls that make for fantastic getting ready photos. I love this location for winter elopements because the indoor space is so bright and open with a huge window behind the ceremony location, and you can stay warm if the weather isn’t ideal. Spring is my absolute favorite at Reynolda Gardens- late March through May the cherry blossoms, daffodils, azaleas, and other flowers are just amazing. You must book the Barn in order to take wedding photos in Reynolda Gardens, and there is a separate fee to book photos in the gardens.

Indoor/Covered Option: Barn available by reservation
Dog Friendly: Yes, except in the formal gardens
On-Site Restaurant: Yes (Reynolda Village has several restaurants)
Overnight Lodging: No

eloping at the barn at reynolda village in winston salem

reynolda gardens in winston salem elopement location

4. Kimpton Cardinal Hotel

Art Deco elegance meets modern style. Great indoor spot for city lovers and those wanting rooftop photos.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes 1000% they let dogs stay overnight!!!!!
On-Site Restaurant: Yes (The Katharine Brasserie)
Overnight Lodging: Yes

5. Old Salem Museum & Gardens

Cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a beautiful covered bridge that is decorated with Moravian star lanterns in the wintertime. It has a cozy, European storybook feel.

Indoor/Covered Option: No formal elopement space
Dog Friendly: Yes (outside only)
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

Old Salem engagement session with historic buildings

engaged couple on the covered bridge decorated with moravian stars at old salem in winston salem, nc

surprise marriage proposal at old salem in nc

6. The Historic Brookstown Inn

The Brookstown Inn used to be a cotton mill and has vintage charm, great light and interesting architecture. The brick courtyard area offers the most gorgeous warm light that is a photographer’s dream.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: No
On-Site Restaurant: Yes, The Cotton Mill Lounge
Overnight Lodging: Yes

wedding bridal party at the Brookstown Inn in Winston-Salem, NC

wedding at the Brookstown Inn in Winston-Salem, NC

bride and bridesmaid at wedding at the brookstown inn in winston salem nc

7. The Crest

Private Victorian home in the heart of the city, high-end amenities, and beautiful light. A hidden gem for couples planning a small wedding in the Winston-Salem area.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

8. The Little Chapel at Haven Ridge (10 min)

A charming little stone chapel and gorgeous solarium surrounded by meadows, woods and a pond. Feels peaceful and private.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes, at the Inn and Tiny Cottage

9. Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden (15 min)

Lush gardens, a fountain courtyard, and a modern greenhouse feel. Great for couples who love plants.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes (event center)
Dog Friendly: No
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

10. Tanglewood Park (15 min)

A massive park with forests, horses, and an arboretum. Ideal for outdoorsy couples planning an affordable elopement near Winston-Salem. My favorite time there is in spring when the pink and white tulip magnolias are in full bloom, and later when the purple wisteria vines are in full glory in the gardens. You can book a horse-drawn carriage ride, play a round of golf, take a swim in the pool, go for a hike, go on a horseback trail ride… I absolutely love this place and I go there all the time since I live close by. It is very kid friendly.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes (wedding chapel, shelters, and event barn)
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes, at Excelsior at Manor House, which is right next to the arboretum

11. Willow & Stone Events (25 min)

Private estate with gardens, rolling hills, a pond and woodland views. Gorgeous styling, intimate spaces, and relaxed vibes. We love the outdoor fireplace and the mountain vibes without the drive. It is only 16 minutes away from Shacktown Falls, so you could run over there for some epic couples portraits. Stay overnight at the beautiful home on the property. I love the natural light and indoor plants inside, which would be a great spot for getting ready photos or even couples portraits.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes

12. Rayson Vineyards (25 min)

Elegant yet unfussy. This vineyard has sweeping views and great wine.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: No
On-Site Restaurant: Yes, Bistro Europa
Overnight Lodging: No

13. Donnaha Valley Farm (25 min)

Rustic yet upscale farm setting that feels like you are in mountains with plenty of open space. Low-key and beautiful.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes (barn)
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

ceremony location for a wedding at donnaha valley farm

14. Dogwood Farms (30 min)

Wide open skies and dreamy fields of flowers with a view of Pilot Mountain in the background. Seasonal wildflower views make this one of the most scenic Winston-Salem elopement spots, that I am completely in love with. April and May are great for poppies, daisies, larkspur and sweet william. Late summer brings radiant sunflowers that are really something to see!

Indoor/Covered Option: No
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

Dogwood Farms sunset in belews creek, nc with pilot mountain in the background

couple in a field of larkspur flowers at sunset at dogwood farms in belews creek, nc near winston-salem

15. JoLo Vineyards (30 min)

Great views, great wine, and a refined but relaxed atmosphere with a view of Pilot Mountain.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: No
On-Site Restaurant: Yes (End Posts Restaurant)
Overnight Lodging: Yes

16. Nana Mac Meadows (30 min)

Gorgeous rolling hills and wide meadow views at the foot of Pilot Mountain. It feels like your own private world.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

17. Summerfield Farms (35 min)

Farm meets modern rustic. Chic barns, wide open fields, and excellent service. The giant oak tree is my favorite ceremony spot.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes

18. Audamont Farm (35 min)

Long range meadow views, a pond, covered bridge, swing, and farm animals in an upscale yet country setting make this a great elopement spot.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

19. Raffaldini Vineyards (40 min)

Italian villa vibes in NC. Beautiful landscapes, vineyard rows, and Blue Ridge mountain backdrops make this a top elopement destination near the Triad.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

married couple posing with their son and their puppy during their elopement at Raffaldini Vineyards

eloping couple among the vines at their raffaldini elopement

See more photos of this Raffaldini Vineyards elopement here.

20. Round Peak Vineyards (45 min)

A relaxed and scenic vineyard with views of the Blue Ridge and outdoor ceremony spots including a gazebo. They make a sparkling elderflower wine (made with elderflowers grown on the property) that is excellent for toasting with!

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes (tasting room)
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes

couple after their wedding ceremony at round peak vineyeards in mt. airy

21. Elkin Creek Vineyard (45 min)

Beautiful vineyard at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains with a small waterfall, interesting architecture and laid back vibe.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes

couple eloping at elkin creek vineyard in nc yadkin valley wine country

22. Carter Falls (45 min)

This gorgeous waterfall opened to the public in 2018 and is nestled between several vineyards in Elkin, NC. You can actually hike here from Grassy Creek Vineyard. It is an easy, less than a half mile hike to the falls. Take a dip in the falls, hike back to the vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting!

Indoor/Covered Option: No
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

23. Shacktown Falls aka Shore-Styers Mill Nature Park (50 min)

Small waterfall and forest location just off the beaten path. Great for adventurous couples who want to get their feet wet on a hot day. No hike, it’s right there off the road! The best part is that there is no fee to elope here, it’s free.

Indoor/Covered Option: No
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

24. The Arbors Events (50 min)

This upscale venue

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes

wedding ceremony at the Arbors Events in Cleveland NC

building view of wedding ceremony at the Arbors Events in Cleveland NC

25. Jones Von Drehl Vineyards (50 min)

This family owned vineyard offers a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere perfect for an intimate elopement. The newly added Chloe Hall provides a stylish indoor option for ceremonies, while the sweeping vineyard landscape makes a stunning backdrop for photos. It is just down the road from beautiful Stone Mountain State Park, which is definitely worth a mention as well. There are waterfalls, big rock faces and forest trails and creeks that would also make a wonderful elopement spot.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes

26. Fleurish Greenhouse (1 hour)

Located in Taylorsville, this white greenhouse is full of glass windows and has great natural light is is surrounded by gardens, meadow, and forest. It has a simple, yet elegant with a light and airy vibe that stands out.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: No

27. Hanging Rock State Park (1 hour)

One of NC’s best-known parks with waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and a beautiful lake with a sandy beach. A favorite spot for couples looking to elope in nature near Winston-Salem.

Indoor/Covered Option: Shelter only
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes, if you want to camp

Hanging Rock State Park elopement on a motorcycle with black wedding dress

engaged couple at waterfall in Hanging Rock State Park in nc

28. Pilot Mountain State Park (1 hour)

Iconic views and easy trails make this a go-to for couples who want mountain magic without a long hike. There is a river section of the park with a great river elopement spot where you can stand on large rocks and get married right on the water if you are looking for a more wild and free feeling for your elopement.

Indoor/Covered Option: No
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: No
Overnight Lodging: Yes, if you want to camp

elopement and wedding locations at PIlot Mountain State Park in NC

29. Old Beau Resort & Golf Club (1 hour)

Laid back mountain setting with a fantastic view and an indoor option, right near the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is one of my lesser known favorite spots!

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: No
On-Site Restaurant: Yes
Overnight Lodging: Yes

30. Roaring River Vineyards (1 hour)

This riverside vineyard has a great restaurant that overlooks the Roaring River and is very picturesque. You can hear the water and see it as you dine. They also have on site lodging, making it a relaxing and beautiful place to elope.

Indoor/Covered Option: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
On-Site Restaurant: Yes
Overnight Lodging: Yes

black tie moroccan themed wedding at the adamson house in malibu

Did I miss any locations that should be added to this list? Leave a comment and let me know. These are just a handful of the amazing places you can elope in North Carolina! Looking for a mountain elopement spot in WNC or somewhere closer to the beach? I would love to help you choose the perfect place for you to marry your love. We are also available for travel to places beyond NC, like Malibu (shown in the photo above)! We offer photography-only packages for destination elopements and full weekend weddings.

Wherever you decide to celebrate, we’re here to make it easy, beautiful, and totally centered on you. Reach out if you want help picking the perfect spot and crafting a low-stress elopement day that you will savor. If you’re searching for Winston-Salem elopement photographers or the best elopement packages in North Carolina, we’d love to be part of your story.

Jenny Friedrichs of Golden Hour Elopements