Before we were adventure wedding and elopement photographers & videographers, we traveled all over the United States for more than ten years in our RV. Lee was a full-time musician. I was chasing my passion as a wedding photographer. In a seemingly split-moment decision, our family of four packed up in our RV and drove wherever the road took us, from the white sandy beaches of Florida to the majestic Redwoods of the Pacific Northwest, letting music and photography lead the way. When it came time to plant some roots, the decision to settle near Lake Tahoe was easy. Although we have seen some spectacular locations, there is no place on Earth quite like Lake Tahoe. So, when a couple or family asks us for a wedding location recommendation, Lake Tahoe will surely be on our list. 

Why Should You Get Married in Lake Tahoe?

Lake Tahoe has it all: it is easy to access, pet friendly and has plenty to do for couples and their guests. Not to mention, Lake Tahoe is gorgeous no matter what time of the year you plan to get married. We could go on and on, so we’ve created a complete blog resource about why Lake Tahoe is the perfect wedding destination!

However, the wedding venue is crucial to getting married in Tahoe. The area has countless wedding venues on both sides of the border, each with its unique view, vibe and atmosphere. A couple looking for a high-end luxury event for 2,000+ guests will look significantly different than an intimate woodland wedding for just the couples nearest and dearest. 

As a part of our all-inclusive elopement packages, we help couples find their ideal place to say, “I do.” We’re happy to help you find the best location for your big day. In the meantime, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite outdoor wedding venues in Lake Tahoe to help you get started.

Outdoor Lake Tahoe Weddings

Did you know that Lake Tahoe hosts 13,000 weddings every year? With 75% percent of the year full of sunshine and breathtaking panoramic views, Lake Tahoe is easily one of the most popular wedding destinations in the United States. 

On average, 60% and 70% are held outside throughout the United States, with more couples opting to head to the great outdoors since 2020 due to their guests’ health, safety, and comfort considerations. Lake Tahoe has no shortage of beautiful backdrops, from a Scandinavian castle to crystal-clear waters and snow-capped mountain peaks. 

The Best Time to Get Married Outdoors in Tahoe

Honestly, you can’t go wrong getting married in Tahoe at any time of the year. 

Summer in Lake Tahoe typically experiences high temperatures in the 70s, with a monthly average of 1-2 days of rain for June, July and August, making it a safe bet for great outdoor wedding weather. Because of the idyllic weather, many couples opt to get married in the middle of the week to escape the weekend crowds. 

Fall and spring range from the 40s to the 60s, depending on the month. Couples often prefer weddings in spring and fall for a variety of reasons. The cooler temperatures are ideal for many outdoor activities, such as hiking or biking on the trails. Plus, the summer crowds have made their way home, offering a wider variety of available vendors and wedding venues. 

If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland, winter in Tahoe has you covered. With highs in the 40s, you can expect snowy mountains and an icy lake all season for majestic winter wedding portraits and videos. And, if you’re sticking around for a Tahoe honeymoon, it is an excellent destination for skiing, snowboarding or cozying up by a fire. 

How to Choose a Wedding Venue in Tahoe

Your wedding venue is an essential detail in the wedding planning process and should be one of the pieces you decide on first. Not only will it determine the official date of your wedding, but it can influence the rest of the budget, the size of your guest list, and the wedding vendors you’ll need to hire. 

Some details to consider while planning a Lake Tahoe wedding: 

• Availability
• Budget
• Guest count
• Indoor and outdoor options
• Theme
• Settings for portraits
• Pet accommodations
• Nearby activities

Best Places To Get Married in Lake Tahoe

Every couple is unique, from their guest list and budget to the theme of their wedding and if they want their pup to walk them down the aisle. Therefore, creating a short and sweet list perfect for everyone is impossible. So, as wedding photographers and videographers in Lake Tahoe, our list of the best wedding venues focuses on those with indoor and outdoor views, extraordinary views our clients have loved and are versatile. 

Here are five of the best Tahoe wedding venues worth your consideration:

The Resort at Squaw Creek

If you’re looking for a year-round picturesque view with a capacity of up to 500 guests, the Resort at Squaw Creek is an excellent option. As a resort, it is more than just a wedding venue in Lake Tahoe—it’s a destination where families travel year-round. It offers award-winning golf, skiing, heated pools and on-site dining, plus hotel accommodation options for all of your guests, so no one has an excuse to be late for the ceremony!

Visit their site: https://www.destinationhotels.com/squawcreek

Northstar California Resort

In the winter, Northstar California Resort is a snow lover’s paradise with 3,000 acres and 92 different ski trails. However, no matter the time of year, this resort claims some of the best mountain views on the California side of Lake Tahoe, and from June to September, you and up to 300 guests could enjoy epic views for your wedding day! Zepher Lodge is located 8,000 feet up and is accessible by gondola cabins and chair lifts. It also has indoor and outdoor venue space and hotel accommodations for your guests. 

Visit their site: https://www.northstarcalifornia.com/explore-the-resort/about-the-resort/weddings-and-groups/weddings.aspx

Bear Valley Resort 

Bear Valley is perfect for an intimate small wedding with less than 150 guests (or 200 if you want standing room only for cocktails). Your wedding photos can include one of four ceremony sites, including panoramic forested mountain views, water views by the creek, or in front of their four-story fireplace. This is an ideal wedding venue in Lake Tahoe with both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces and dining and lodging accommodations. 

Visit their site: https://www.bearvalley.com/weddings/?doing_wp_cron=1665088280.9924860000610351562500

Rainbow Tavern & Lodge

If you and your other half want an intimate wedding or elopement in Lake Tahoe, the Rainbow Lodge is a favorite. This LGBTQ+ friendly location caps out at 65 guests in winter (November-May) and 120 the rest of the year. They have 115 acres available on the property, with natural backgrounds and historical architectural buildings; however, only indoor weddings are available during the winter. On the other hand, if you’re planning an outdoor wedding venue, you’ll love the spectacular views of the water or the mountains. 

Visit their site: https://www.therainbowlodge.com/

Palisades Tahoe

No Lake Tahoe wedding venue list would be complete without mentioning Palisades. As home to the 1960 Olympic Winter Games, this location is renowned for its world-class skiing and winter amenities, making it a dream winter wedding venue in Tahoe, but it is gorgeous every day of the year. It can accommodate up to 750 guests, offers Lake Tahoe small wedding packages, lodging and dining amenities and is LGBTQ+ friendly. In addition, you’ll have your choice of indoor and outdoor sites, all with unforgettable views. 

Visit their site: https://www.palisadestahoe.com/

We’ll Help Choose a Wedding Venue That’s Right For You

We’ve photographed and visited countless locations and trails throughout Northern California, including Lake Tahoe, Yosemite and Big Sur. Your wedding venue sets the stage for the happiest day of your life, and it is vital to check all boxes to find the right fit. 

Although we’ve compiled a list of some of the ideal wedding venues for many couples, we know that you likely have your own list of requests, and we’re ready to help you find the right one. Whether you want a big traditional wedding or an adventure elopement in Lake Tahoe, the perfect backdrop is out there, and we’re here to help you find it. 

Contact a Lake Tahoe Wedding Photographer and Videographer

As a husband and wife wedding photography and videography team, we are passionate about celebrating the love stories of couples like us! We’ve seen how important it is to have a venue that captures who you are, and we’re here to help you find your wedding venue match and capture every moment of your big day. Contact us today for a free consultation. Give us a call at (605)-728-1980 or contact us through our website. We’ll be in contact ASAP, but in the meantime, our blog is a peek at our portfolio and a resource to help you prepare for your Lake Tahoe wedding or elopement. We can’t wait to know you!