There’s something special about desert weddings. Maybe it’s the cotton candy sunsets that color the mountains, or the wide-open skies peppered with constellations. Yes, there’s something undeniably romantic about saying “I do” in the wild desert, with little more than charming, prickly cacti watching over you and your guests. The quiet serenity of the desert can make it feel like the whole world stopped just for you – just for this special moment. If this sounds like your dream wedding experience, then a desert venue may be the perfect place to host your special day. There are so many beautiful and otherworldly desert wedding venues, but we’re going to share eight truly special ones.
8 LUXURIOUS DESERT WEDDING VENUES
1. Desert Botanical Gardens (Arizona)
Situated in Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Gardens offers a variety of stunning indoor and outdoor venues. While there are outdoor terraces and scenic courtyards, there are also luxurious banquet halls and open air pavilions. With 140 sprawling acres, the Desert Botanical Gardens offers beautiful desert art and scenic backdrops to make your big day unforgettable.
2. Amangiri (Utah)
A luxurious, unique wedding venue nestled amid the Grand Staircase-Escalante, Amangiri is truly a one-of-a-kind hotel that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. It’s spacious yet intimate and offers stunning desert and canyon views. Situated across 600 acres, Amangiri will make you feel like you have the whole world to yourself.
3. Hacienda Dona Andrea de Santa Fe (New Mexico)
The Hacienda’s authentic Southwest vibe will make you feel right at home with your wedding guests. This private estate, perched between the Ortiz Mountains, spans 17,000 square feet and is just 25 minutes from Santa Fe. The estate is known for its notably luxurious accommodations for up to 30 guests and offers a variety of ceremony options, such as stunning gardens and a column-lined courtyard.
4. Zion Red Rock (Utah)
Offering majestic views and a convenient location (minutes from Zion National Park), Zion Red Rock has three desert wedding venue options that will instantly take your breath away:
- Oasis: A sprawling estate in the center of 15 acres with panoramic views and a private lake. The 14,000 square foot property offers a hot tub, swimming pool, 7 bedrooms and a grand kitchen.
- Villa: Offering 12,000 square feet of space, the Villa has a Mediterranean vibe, 2 grand indoor venue options and a picturesque landscape. Moreover, the estate is fully equipped for your wedding.
- Chalet: Ideal for smaller weddings, the Chalet offers stunning views of the mountains, and is, of course, fully equipped for your wedding. In addition, the chalet can accommodate up to 22 people.
If you want to add a little adventure and fun to your reception (or if you plan to stay at the resort after the wedding), there are opportunities for paddle boarding, kayaking and other recreational sports.
5. Cibolo Creek Ranch (Texas)
A historic venue located in Marfa, Texas. Cibolo is one of the oldest ranches in the Lone Star State (established in 1857). It offers more than 30,000 acres of breathtaking views of the Chianti Mountains. The open-air venue blends rustic charm with modern luxury and still can accommodate up to 300 guests. In addition, they have many event rentals available to take the stress out of wedding planning.
6. L’Auberge de Sedona (Arizona)
Located in Sedona, Arizona. L’Auberge offers stunning vistas and can accommodate up to 150 guests. Moreover, the venue has several scenic ceremony spots, including a fairytale creekside gazebo and a hilltop canopy with panoramic red rock views. And to take the pain out of wedding planning, the venue also offers a variety of wedding packages, whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a big, extravagant affair.
7. Rimrock Ranch (California)
Situated in California’s high desert. Rimrock Ranch has a true Southwest desert vibe – complete with flowering cacti and howling coyotes in the (far) distance. Rimrock is spread over 36 acres just outside Joshua Tree National Park. The ranch has something for every taste, whether you want wild wilderness or luxury.
8. Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa (Nevada)
Located near the Las Vegas Strip, Westin Lake is a luxurious resort with a peaceful vibe that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Vegas. The resort offers over 100,000 square feet of event space and 35 event rooms. In fact, the spectacular Casablanca Ballroom can seat up to 2,100 guests. Also, there are plenty of outdoor venue options, including the Andalusian Gardens (perfect for romantic weddings). Conveniently located near downtown Vegas, this venue will give your guests plenty to do before and after the big day.
All in all, these special desert wedding venues allow you to enjoy the beauty of the desert in luxury and style. Above all, each one has its own unique characteristics and charm. Find one that fits your vibe and the theme you want to create for your big day.
Check out our latest wedding video with celebration in Joshua Tree: