Buena Vista Elopement Guide 2025

Buena Vista Elopement Guide

This Buena Vista Elopement Guide has everything you need to know to dream up your wildly romantic Colorado elopement! From when & where to get married to restaurant and lodging recommendations, we have compiled all that you need to know about how to elope in Buena Vista, Colorado! Understand where you can obtain your Colorado marriage license, learn about our Buena Vista elopement packages, navigate your way to Buena Vista from the 3 closest airports, and more!

Buena Vista by the Numbers

Buena Vista is a quaint mountain town located at 7,965 feet above sea level. It is a statutory town and was incorporated on November 8th, 1879. The population is approximately 3,000 people and is located 122 miles from Denver in Chaffee County. Their local motto is “8,000 feet above average.”

Is Buena Vista Worth Visiting?

Yes, the town of Buena Vista is absolutely adorable! Buena Vista is one of our favorite mountain towns because there is so much to do. From rafting, climbing, hiking, snowshoeing, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning, adventure is everywhere! Buena Vista is a less expensive mountain town when compared to places like Aspen and Telluride. In general, you will spend less here to get married than in similar areas.

Where to Elope in Buena Vista

Elopement Permits for Buena Vista

When getting married outdoors, always check with local municipalities to ensure you can have a ceremony and photographs taken in a specific location. Typically, public lands and National Forests require a special use permit. Contact the Pike-San Isabel National Forest – Salida Ranger District to learn if you need a permit for your Buena Vista elopement. For permits at Twin Lakes, contact Rocky Mountain Recreation. Part of our services include obtaining these permits for you.

Buena Vista Elopement Packages 

Our Buena Vista elopement packages start at $5,000. We will help you plan your day, recommend vendors, photograph, and more! Custom packages are also available.

Obtaining Your Buena Vista Marriage License

You can obtain your Buena Vista marriage license at the Chaffee County Clerk. Their office is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30a-4:30p, and they are closed on holidays. You can simply call 719-530-5602 to make an appointment.

Buena Vista Elopement Photographer

We are a husband and wife Buena Vista elopement photographer team. With over 7 years of experience and more than 200 elopements & intimate weddings photographed, our expertise is guiding you throughout the whole process. We would love to get to know each other a little better and help create the day of your dreams!

When to Elope in Buena Vista

Buena Vista is a great elopement destination year round! In order to know when the best time for you to elope might be, we recommend identifying what activities you would like to incorporate into your special day. If you absolutely don’t like being cold, then the summer is the best option for you. For even more detailed information, check out our complete seasonal Colorado elopement guide.

Things to Do in Buena Vista

Place to Stay in Buena Vista

Buena Vista Elopement Reception Venues

• The Surf Hotel
• River + Tree Inn
• The Loft Theatre
• Noah’s Ark (an adventure haven)
• Mount Princeton Hot Springs
  • Reserve their infinity pool overlooking the Collegiate Peaks for a steamy photography session in the waters. Have a pool party instead of a traditional dinner reception!
• Host your elopement reception at your airbnb or vacation rental

Buena Vista Elopement Vendors

Places To Eat In Buena Vista

How to Get to Buena Vista

The three closest airports to Buena Vista are all within 2 hours of driving distance. They are Denver International Airport, Colorado Springs Airport, and the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport. You can rent a car at each one and navigate accordingly.

Things to do Between Denver and Buena Vista

The drive from Denver to Buena Vista is quite enjoyable with many scenic lookouts and mountain views along the way. We recommend visiting Kenosha Pass and the towns of South Park and Fairplay. When you need a snack, the Shaggy Sheep will certainly satisfy your sweet tooth. This drive is the most beautiful during the fall season when the aspens turn colorful and vivid!

Things to do Between Colorado Springs and Buena Vista

When driving from Colorado Springs to Buena Vista, you can visit some of Colorado’s most iconic places! Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Royal Gorge highlight the most gorgeous places to stop along the way!

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