How to Get Married in Garden of the Gods
If you’re dreaming of a wedding day surrounded by dramatic red rock formations and sweeping mountain views, Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is one of the most stunning (and surprisingly affordable) places to say “I do.” This free public park is a favorite spot for elopements and intimate weddings, offering couples a natural backdrop unlike anywhere else in Colorado. Here’s everything you need to know about getting married at Garden of the Gods.
High Point at Garden of the Gods
Why We Love Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods park is conveniently located in Colorado Springs and is known for its towering sandstone rock formations set against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. The park is a popular destination for hiking, sightseeing, and–you guessed it–weddings! Paved paths, scenic overlooks, and easy access from downtown make it a top choice for couples looking for a beautiful and affordable intimate wedding venue.
Garden of the Gods Weddings
Not only is Garden of the Gods a gorgeous place to get married, it’s also a super easy, convenient, and budget-friendly alternative to a traditional venue or a National Park. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your wedding.
Best Season at Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods park is open year-round, but we love weddings there from October through May when temperatures are cooler. Winter and early spring are my favorite times because there are less crowds and the weather is best. And the red rock formations with a light dusting of snow on them is truly spectacular!
Getting There
Garden of the Gods is conveniently located right outside Colorado Springs. If you’re flying in, the closest airport(s) are:
Colorado Springs Airport (COS): Just 30 minutes from Garden of the Gods, making it the most convenient option.
Denver International Airport (DEN): About 1.5 hours away. A larger hub with more flight options, ideal for out-of-town guests.
Permits and Fees
The best part about getting married in Garden of the Gods is that it’s completely FREE! You do not need a permit; however, there are regulations for ceremony sites, the number of guests, and other details, which we will cover later. This also means you can’t reserve a ceremony site there, so there are factors to consider when planning your Garden of the Gods wedding.
Wedding Rules at Garden of the Gods
While the Garden of the Gods does not require a permit for wedding ceremonies, there are some important rules to keep in mind:
No reservations are allowed, so all areas are first-come, first-served.
You cannot block off areas from public use. Expect hikers, bikers, and other tourists to be nearby.
No arches, chairs, or large décor are permitted—you’ll need to keep things minimal.
Receptions are not allowed in the park, though you can book nearby venues or restaurants for a post-ceremony celebration.
Self-Solemnization in Colorado
Another thing that makes getting married here super easy: you don’t need an officiant or witnesses to make it legal. Colorado offers self-solemnization, meaning you can marry yourselves without anyone else present to sign your marriage license. Your dog or cat can even sign the document with their paw print! This makes Garden of the Gods an especially great choice for couples who want a private, just-the-two-of-you ceremony.
Where Can You Host Your Ceremony?
While you don’t need a permit for your ceremony, the park does have designated areas where wedding ceremonies are allowed. Each spot offers its own regulations for group size.
Jaycee Plaza – Capacity: ~50 people. Paved area with benches and red rock views, very accessible.
Sentinel Plaza – Capacity: ~25 people. Iconic sandstone formations surround this spot.
Three Graces Plaza – Capacity: ~25 people. A tucked-away area beneath the Three Graces rock formation.High Point Overlook – Capacity: ~50 people. Panoramic views of red rocks and Pikes Peak—one of the most popular spots.
Scotsman Picnic Area – Capacity: ~25 people. A quieter option with shady trees and picnic facilities. You can use the picnic facilities for a small celebration (think cake or lunch), but you cannot bring any alcohol into the park.
South Spring Canyon Area – Capacity: ~50 people. Spacious with mountain and rock views.
Tips for Getting Married at Garden of the Gods
Because Garden of the Gods makes getting married there both easy and affordable, it’s a popular option for couples choosing to elope or host an intimate ceremony. While you can’t guarantee an available ceremony spot or complete seclusion at Garden of the Gods, there are some ways you can prepare to make sure your wedding is as seamless as possible.
Plan for crowds: Garden of the Gods is one of Colorado’s most visited parks. Opt for sunrise, sunset, or weekdays for fewer people.
Be flexible: if the ceremony spot you had in mind is occupied, just wait a little bit or head to a different location.
Share private vows: consider sharing private vows in the park, then meet up with family and friends for photos, a short hike, or celebrations outside the park.
Keep it simple: No décor or setup is allowed, so embrace the natural red rock backdrop.
Think about timing: Sunrise and golden hour offer the best lighting for photos, as well as the best chance of getting some seclusion on your big day!
Choose a weekday: keep in mind that weekdays will be far less busy than weekends, so opt for a weekday if possible!
Consider guest needs: Jaycee Plaza and High Point Overlook are most accessible for guests with mobility limitations.
Check the weather: Colorado weather can change quickly—pack layers, even in summer.
Hotels and Lodging Near Garden of the Gods
If you’re planning a Colorado elopement or wedding, staying nearby makes the experience even easier. I try to discourage couples from choosing lodging that is too far from their ceremony site—it makes things far more stressful on the day of your wedding. So I recommend budgeting for lodging that is close to your ceremony site or venue to make the day as seamless as possible. Some of my favorite lodging options near Garden of the Gods include:
Garden of the Gods Resort and Club – A luxury resort with unbeatable views of the park and spa amenities.
Cliff House at Pikes Peak – Historic and romantic, located in nearby Manitou Springs. Offers quaint rooms, restaurants, and proximity to attractions.
SCP Hotel Colorado Springs – Modern, eco-conscious lodging with a boutique feel. It offers a lobby bar, pool, well-appointed rooms, and views of nearby Pikes Peak.
The Broadmoor Hotel — a bit further from the park is the incredible Broadmoor Hotel. It’s a beautiful hotel with a range of amenities, including shops, a picturesque walkable pond, high-end restaurants, and an award-winning spa. It’s luxury lodging at its finest.
Airbnbs and cabins – Great for couples wanting a cozy mountain escape or larger groups needing space for family and friends.
Restaurants & Venues for Celebrations
Receptions aren’t allowed inside Garden of the Gods, but there are plenty of nearby restaurants and venues perfect for a post-ceremony meal or celebration.
Briarhurst Manor Estate – A historic Tudor-style estate in Manitou Springs, ideal for private group dining.
The Wine Room at Warehouse Restaurant — The wine room at Warehouse Restaurant is a small private dining room directly off the main dining room that seats up to 20 people and is perfect for private celebrations.
Cliff House Dining Room — If you’re staying at the Cliff House in Manitou Springs, the Dining Room there is a cozy and convenient spot for dinner, either with a group or just the two of you.
Edelweiss German Restaurant – Family-style meals and a warm, celebratory atmosphere.
Phantom Canyon Brewing Co. – A casual brewery downtown with private event space upstairs. Great fun and casual dining for groups.
Private Dining Experiences at the Broadmoor Hotel — The Broadmoor offers a variety of unforgettable private dining experiences for your group.
Garden of the Gods Market & Café – A local favorite with group dining options and private event space.
Why Garden of the Gods is Perfect for Elopements
Between the dramatic landscapes, free access, and unique self-solemnization laws in Colorado, Garden of the Gods is one of the most stress-free and magical places to elope. Whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of your closest family and friends, this location offers a wedding experience you’ll never forget. Contact me to plan your Garden of the Gods elopement today!
FAQs About Getting Married at Garden of the Gods
Can you get married at Garden of the Gods for free?
Yes! There are no fees or permits required to hold a wedding ceremony at Garden of the Gods, making it one of the most affordable and beautiful wedding locations in Colorado.
Do you need a permit to get married at Garden of the Gods?
No. Permits are not required, but ceremonies are first-come, first-served, and you cannot reserve or block off areas of the park.
How many guests can attend a Garden of the Gods wedding?
Depending on the ceremony location, capacity ranges from about 25 to 50 people. Larger weddings are not allowed, which makes the park perfect for elopements and intimate gatherings.
Where can I have a reception after my Garden of the Gods wedding?
Receptions are not allowed inside the park, but there are nearby restaurants and venues that welcome wedding groups.
What is the best time of day to get married at Garden of the Gods?
Sunrise and sunset offer the best light for photos and the fewest crowds. Weekdays are also less busy than weekends.
Do I need an officiant or witness to get married in Garden of the Gods?
No. Colorado allows self-solemnization, which means you can legally marry yourselves without an officiant or witnesses.
What’s the closest airport to Garden of the Gods?
Colorado Springs Airport is just 30 minutes away. Denver International Airport is approximately 1.5 hours away and offers a wider range of flight options.
If you’re interested in learning more about hosting your elopement or intimate wedding in the Garden of the Gods, don't hesitate to get in touch with me below.