Eloping in Orlando Florida: The Ultimate Guide for an Epic, Stress-Free Day

You’re probably here because you and your partner are dreaming of an adventurous, sun-filled elopement—and decided Orlando checks all the boxes. But now you’re wondering where to even begin with eloping in Orlando Florida. Sound familiar? That’s where I come in.

As a Florida native and full-time elopement photographer, I’ve helped couples plan unforgettable elopements all across the state. This guide has everything you need to know—from choosing your perfect location to knowing what to pack and when to go. Whether you’re planning something low-key or epic, this guide will help make your day feel easy, meaningful, and totally “you.”n in!

Here’s What We’ll Cover:

• Best Places for Eloping in Orlando Florida
• When to Elope in Orlando
• How to Legally Elope in Orlando
• Fun Ideas for Your Orlando Elopement
• What to Bring
• Sample Elopement Timelines
• Orlando Elopement Packages

Best Places for Eloping in Orlando Florida

Choosing your elopement location can feel like the biggest decision – and honestly, it sets the vibe for your entire day. Orlando is huge, and every area has its own unique energy. There’s so many options that it’s hard to narrow down specific locations. From everything from The Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, Old Towne, art district and so much more, there’s no end of excitement in Orlando! You’ll find a mix of city life, magical moments, and wild adventure, depending on where you go.

Here are a few top areas to consider:

✨ Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando is perfect if you’re into modern vibes, cool architecture, and that mix of city energy with hidden nature spots. You can start the day with a cozy getting-ready session in a stylish boutique hotel, do your first look near a mural or skyline rooftop, have your vows in front of the Orange County courthouse, and then head to grab celebratory at a nearby cocktail bar. It’s got a little bit of everything—quiet green spaces, lively bars and cafes, and some really unique photo spots tucked into every corner.

? International Drive

If you want your elopement day to feel like one big adventure, International Drive (aka I-Drive) is where it’s at. This area is packed with fun, bold experiences—from the towering Orlando Eye to quirky attractions, themed restaurants, and even indoor skydiving. It’s ideal for couples who want a high-energy day full of movement, laughs, and not-so-traditional moments. Imagine sneaking away for a private ceremony in a nearby garden or hotel rooftop, then hitting up mini golf, a thrill ride, or a killer taco spot.

? Islands of Adventure & Universal Studios

Calling all thrill-seekers! Whether you’re Harry Potter fans, Marvel lovers, want all the vintage vibes, or just want epic roller coasters and wild photo ops, Universal’s parks bring serious adventure energy. You can exchange vows before park opening or just soak up the fun post-ceremony. It’s high energy and totally unforgettable.

Orlando also has gems like the art districts, Old Town, and even hidden gardens that are perfect for more private vows. If you want to learn more about Orlando’s areas, neighborhoods, and main streets, check out this Visit Orlando website!

⚠️ Quick Tip: No matter which region you end up going to, keep in mind that there may be wedding and/or photography permits needed for each county, park, or location. My biggest tip for finding your location? Work with a Orlando elopement photographer who can help you you navigate these permit waters and suggest locations that fit your vision!

Need help finding the perfect Orlando elopement location? Let’s plan something together!

When To Elope In Orlando

Florida = warm and sunny, right? Mostly! But there are definitely better months depending on what you’re hoping for.

Here’s a quick seasonal breakdown:

• Spring (March–May): 70s–80s, humid, and a little rainier toward May
• Summer (June–August): 80s–90s, afternoon thunderstorms, longer days (Sunrise elopements are ideal!)
• Fall (Sept–Nov): Lower temps, less rain, especially after October
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Cool, dry, bug-free, and perfect for outdoor adventure

Keep this in mind before setting a date! Florida’s hurricane season starts in June and goes all the way until November. If you plan to elope during this time, plan an early summer (June/July) as hurricane activity picks up later in the season between mid-August and mid-October. If you want to elope during this time, travel insurance is a must!

Outside of hurricane season, you want to choose a date that will avoid crowds! Plan your elopement during an off-season, non-holiday weekend, or during the week!

We can’t forget about our mortal enemies, the Florida mosquitos and no-see-ums. These biting insects are TERRIBLE in the hot summer months. If you want to avoid getting eaten alive, look to get married during the late fall/winter months (November through February).

Need help figuring out the best time to elope in Orlando? Let me help guide you!

How to Legally Elope in Orlando Florida

Good news—Florida is one of the easiest states to elope in. Here’s what you’ll need:

Step 1: Get Your Marriage License

• Apply at the Orange County Clerk of Court (online or in person)
• Non-Florida residents = no waiting period
• Florida residents = 3-day waiting period
• Cost is usually around $80
• Bring ID—both of you must be present

Once you’ve got your license, you have 60 days to use it anywhere in Florida.

Step 2: Make It Official

Now that you have your marriage license, you’ll need someone to make it official. You’ll need an officiant who is:

• A Florida notary (yep, I’m one!)
• An ordained minister, priest, rabbi or other ordained clergy, or judges of the state of Florida

Pro Tip: If you want to keep things intimate, you can hire a photographer who’s also a Florida notary (hi again ?) so your ceremony and adventure stay simple and seamless.

? Bonus: Florida doesn’t require witnesses—but there’s space on the license for them. Your dog can even sign. Yes. Seriously.

Need help figuring out what you need and when you need it for your marriage license? Let’s plan your elopement!

What To Do For Your Orlando Elopement

Let’s talk adventure. Eloping in Orlando Florida doesn’t have to be a one-hour thing – it can be a full day of celebration and excitement. Here are a few fun ways to make your day unforgettable:

• Visit one of Orlando’s craft breweries
• Ride in a swan boat on Lake Eola
• Kayak the Emerald Cut and say your vows in the water
• Spend the afternoon mural-hopping or checking out vintage shops
• Ride roller coasters at Universal or Islands of Adventure
• Try out a local food hall
• Explore Old Towne

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to elopements—and that’s the beauty of it. You can design the day around exactly what you love doing together.

? Want help creating your dream elopement adventure? I’ve got tons of ideas waiting for you.

Sample Orlando Elopement Timelines

Want to know how your day could look? Here are a few timeline flow ideas from couples I’ve worked with:

Mini Adventure (4-Hour Timeline)

• Quick getting ready + first look
• Ceremony
• Short adventure like celebratory drinks or mural hopping
• Golden hour portraits

Half Day Adventure (6-Hour Timeline)

• Full getting ready coverage
• First Look
• Vows
• Two short adventures like cocktails and bowling
• Sunset portraits

Full Day Adventure (10-Hour Timeline)

• Full getting ready coverage
• First Look
• Vows
• Two epic adventures (or one long adventure like a day at Islands of Adventure)
• Sunset portraits

➡️ Need help mapping out a custom timeline? I’ll build one that fits exactly what you want to do—and keeps everything chill and fun.

Orlando Elopement Photographer & Local Guide

If you’ve made it this far, it means you’re ready to elope in Orlando, but maybe you don’t know where to strat? If that’s you and you would love for someone to help brainstorm ideas, plan out the logistics, give you recommendations, andddddddd capture epic photos, then I’m your girl! Learn about how I can help create your best adventure yet!