So you’re getting married in Las Vegas. When you told people of your decision to have your wedding in Vegas, I’m sure at one point or another you were met with the response, “Oh so is Elvis going to marry you?!” Thats because people have a very specific image in their head about what a Las Vegas Wedding might entail. And that image could include visions of a bride and groom strolling down the strip to a quaint wedding chapel to get married while Elvis sings “Viva Las Vegas”. And HEY, theres nothing wrong with that. BUT, for those of you who want something a little different out of your Vegas experience, I’ve compiled a list of awesome places to have your photos taken. So before you plan your Wedding in Las Vegas, check out these “off the beaten trail” locations. Keep in mind that some areas may require permission/and or a permit which your Photographer can obtain (sometimes for additional fees).
Dry Lake Beds
These are great if you’re looking for that sun-kissed, vintage, and rustic dessert feel. So much fun for engagement photo sessions and family photoshoots! There are a few just outside of town. The two I go to the most are the Boulder City and Jean dry lakebeds. And BONUS, during monsoon season, when the lakes aren’t so dry they make a great location for Trash the Dress sessions and muddy family fun!
Directions to the Boulder City Lakebed: from the I-215/I-515 intersection in Henderson, head south on US-93/95 for approximately 8 miles. When US-95 splits from US-93 just before of Boulder City, drive south on US-95. The lake bed is to the right (west), immediately adjacent to the highway. You will find an access ramp to take you onto the lake bed approximately 6 miles from the US-93/95 interchange.
Directions to Jean Dry Lakebed: Jean Dry Lake is 22 miles south of Las Vegas off I-15, exit off the 12 mile mark(Jean Exit) and head east on 161 about 1/4 mile and then turn north on route 6 (also Las Vegas Blvd) for about 3 miles , look for the big brown area to the East or Launch site Signs. (Two good roads lead to the Dry lakebed)
Town Square/Tivoli Village
I don’t know about you, but sometimes I need to get away from the sin city buzz and into a cozy, small town environment. But I can’t always leave Vegas to escape. On those days I love to head over to Town Square or Tivoli Village for some good shopping, food, and fun. Then, to top the day off I find a nice table and read a book accompanied by some tasty tea.
These locations have a whimsical, yet modern feel. GREAT if you hate the desert. Good for autumn, and Christmas themed photoshoots, or for a casual and fun couples’ shoot!
Town Square
6653 Las Vegas Boulevard S. Las Vegas, NV
Tivoli Village
440 South Rampart, Las Vegas, NV
Fremont Street
Ah, capturing the essence of the good ol’ Vegas, and home to the Fremont Experience. Fremont is full of big, beautiful buildings and bright lights. A taste of the strip without as much traffic. Great for a romantic, yet dramatic photo session at night!
Fremont Street Experience
425 Fremont Street Las Vegas, NV
The Neon Museum
One of the most beautiful, and iconic locations in Vegas. The Boneyard is where Casino Neon signs go to die, yet the broken bulbs and cracked paint lend a modern/vintage feel. Be prepared to shell at the cash, though, the boneyard tends to charge a pretty penny for private photo sessions with your photographer. Its worth it though, if you want iconic wedding photos.
For more info, visit their Official Site
Neon Museum
810 Las Vegas Boulevard N Las Vegas, NV
Mt. Charleston
Rustic & romantic. All the whimsy of the wilderness without being in the middle of nowhere. Only about an hour’s drive outside of Las Vegas, Mt. Charleston comes complete with beautiful log cabins, towering trees, and maybe a few bears. It offers the best way to have true “wintery” photos for your wedding or family session. Great for Christmas photos, and I’ve always wanted to hang mason jars with candles from some pines and do a romantic engagement at twilight there!
For more info and directions: Mt. Charleston Official Site
Springs Preserve
Plenty of plant and wildlife, the preserve has gorgeous paths and walkways that make for a perfect and intimate engagement session. Or, if you don’t want the kids to be too bored for the family pictures, bring them here, photos and fun. Great place to get beautiful photos and have some fun after the camera stops shooting!
Official website: Spring’s Preserve
Nestled right in the middle of Las Vegas, Springs Preserve is a city treasure to enjoy.
333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89107
Lake Las Vegas
You know, someone once told me that Oprah has a house out at the community by Lake Las Vegas. If you want an indulgent, preppy, country club location for your photo session, then consider Lake Las Vegas. It offers a beautiful mountain view on the water. Perfect for dock, or bridge shots and also a great location to balance the warm dry desert with a luscious watering hole!
Lake Las Vegas Official Website
Driving Directions: From I-15, McCarran Airport or the Las Vegas Strip:
Take I-215 East towards Henderson. Once the freeway ends continue heading East on Lake Mead Parkway until you come to Lake Las Vegas Parkway. Turn left and follow the signs to your destination.
Ghost Town in Nelson, NV
What a great location for a themed photo session! Nelson’s landing makes its claim to fame in the movie 3,000 Miles To Graceland and also made its video game debut in Fallout: New Vegas. What a cool and adventurous place to take pictures! Pick Nelson if you have a wild and adventurous spirit. Did I mention the coolest feature of Nelson’s is that there is crashed plane there? Awesome right?!
For more info and directions: Nelson’s Landing Wikipedia
Directions: Nelson is located along Nevada State Route 165, about 8 miles (13 km) southeast of its junction with U.S. Route 95. Route 165 continues east 5 miles (8 km) to a dead end at Nelsons Landing on the Colorado River, 18 miles (29 km) by water north of Cottonwood Cove on Lake Mojave. Nelson is about 25 miles (40 km) from Boulder City by road.
Spring Mt Ranch
Image courtesy of http://parks.nv.gov
A luxurious Vegas getaway without the Casino. Spring Mt. Ranch’s history is as colorful as its vibrant red barn walls and relaxing green lawns. GREAT for that rustic, down home country feel. You’ll love this place if you love gorgeous summery, warm, engagement or wedding photos
Learn more at: NV State Parks’ Official Spring Mountain Ranch Site
Spring Mountain Ranch is located 15 miles west of Las Vegas, via Blue Diamond Rd., in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
And lastly, don’t forget that Vegas has an ABUNDANCE of beautiful parks all over the city. The best place for your photoshoot might be right around the corner!!
So if you’re looking for a great place to take your engagement, wedding, or family pictures that is a better fit for who you are than the Strip, check out these places. I think Vegas has something for everyone, you just need to search beyond Las Vegas Blvd. Happy Shooting!
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