The Eureka Springs Elopement Guide

Eureka Springs has been called America's favorite elopement town for a reason. There are more ordained ministers per capita than almost anywhere in the country, the marriage license is same-day, and the setting, Victorian streets above an old-growth forest, does most of the work for you.

The marriage license

Apply at the Carroll County Clerk's office in Berryville (about 20 minutes from Eureka Springs). Both partners must be present with a government-issued ID. There's no waiting period and no blood test required. The license is valid for 60 days and can be used anywhere in Arkansas.

Where to actually say your vows

A few of the best spots:

• Thorncrown Chapel. The glass chapel in the woods. Iconic, intimate, and bookable for private ceremonies.
• Lake Leatherwood overlook. A quiet bluff with sweeping forest views, ten minutes from town.
• Eureka Springs Historic Loop. Stone staircases and small park benches along the Victorian streets, perfect for a two-person ceremony.
• A private forest clearing. Many couples opt for a ceremony on private land like Forest Springs Resort, no permit needed, no public crowd.

Officiants & photographers

Eureka Springs has a deep bench of local officiants who can perform short, personal ceremonies for $200–$400. Many photographers offer two-hour elopement packages that cover the ceremony, a short portrait session in the forest, and downtown shots at golden hour.

Where to stay

An elopement is really a honeymoon with a ceremony inside it. Book three nights at Forest Springs Resort: ten private acres, a sauna over the forest, a pool, a cold plunge, and trails right outside the door. Most elopers spend their first morning in the sauna and their last on a slow hike to one of the nearby waterfalls.