From world-class service to decadent cuisine, every wedding is a VIP event in Las Vegas.
By Sarah Fine
What happens in Las Vegas, can only happen in Las Vegas—including an unforgettable destination wedding. While we all know Vegas offers world-class nightlife, entertainment and easy access to natural wonders, it’s also a timeless wedding destination for a reason. From Las Vegas’s unmatched guest services to its sheer number of rooms and venues to choose from, it’s clear why they say, “forever happens here.” Read on to discover six reasons why Las Vegas is the perfect place for any couple to start their forever, together.
1. It’s been an iconic wedding destination for decades.
Las Vegas’ history and flair practically speak for themselves, so it’s no surprise that the city is known as the Wedding Capital of the World. From the Strip to Red Rock Canyon to cuisine of every variety, plus premier entertainment and unrivaled nightlife, the options are endless. Arguably, Vegas weddings reached icon status in the 1964 hit Viva Las Vegas. (You can still spot iconic locales from the film today, like the Tropicana and the Flamingo.) Ever since, Vegas has been home to scores of celebrities tying the knot. No wonder Clark County is on track to issue its 5 millionth wedding license this year!
2. It has venue options in spades.
Choosing a venue is arguably one of the most important parts of planning a wedding, and Las Vegas is chock-full of locales for every kind of couple, no matter their style or price point. Get married anywhere, anytime, any way you want—literally. Opt for a timeless white chapel experience at Chapel of the Flowers, complete with modern amenities like an LED-display waterfall, custom floral arrangements and an outdoor garden. Or, if you’re looking for something that still says “classic Vegas” but caters to a larger guest list, consider The Venetian Resort. Inspired by Italian architecture, photo ops are around every corner with stately marble columns and winding canals reminiscent of the heart of Venice. Or blaze your own trail with a completely custom experience at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, which has a plethora of exclusive luxury venues to choose from.
3. It offers endless experiences for you and your loved ones.
During every wedding weekend—especially those that require travel—guests will most likely have some downtime between festivities to explore. Luckily, Vegas has something for everyone. (Are you starting to sense a theme here?) The Strip and the entire downtown area are full of pre- and post-wedding activities—restaurants, lounges, museums, spas…the list goes on. It’s safe to say your welcome drinks, rehearsal dinner, after-party and, of course, honeymoon can all take place here. Book tickets for one of the visually stunning Cirque du Soleil shows, or strike a pose with the best at RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE!. Take in the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon during an all-inclusive day trip, explore the Las Vegas Arts District or wind down at one of the many luxe spas. And naturally, the shopping is unmatched. Whether you’re in need of something new or blue, you’ll find it on the Strip, with various destinations from designer to everyday. The best part? Most of Vegas’ major hot spots are within 30 minutes' walking distance, making it easy for you and your guests to get around. (Yep, you read that right.)
4. It’s got unbeatable eats.
On top of all that, Las Vegas has an incredible food scene. If you’re looking to sample a variety of flavors all in one place, consider the new Famous Foods Street Food Hall at Resorts World Las Vegas – Hilton, Conrad & Crockfords, which is home to 16 food stalls from the likes of veteran chef Marcus Samuelsson, James Beard Award finalist James Trees and more. Of course, the Strip is also home to dozens of celebrity eateries—from culinary giants like Gordon Ramsay and Wolfgang Puck to newcomers to the Vegas dining scene, like Lisa Vanderpump. Whether you’re craving Italian, the finest sushi, or a tender ribeye steak, there’s a four-star spot in which you can enjoy it. You’ll be globetrotting from menu to menu, no doubt.
5. It’s known for world-class service.
Wedding planning is bound to take a convenient turn once you decide to say ”I do” in Vegas. From full-blown black-tie affairs to intimate ceremonies, every couple gets VIP treatment. Among its many accolades, the destination is known for its world-class service and a wide variety of accommodations. And with so many couples’ plans affected by COVID-19 in recent years, 2022 is set to host the most weddings since 1984. But not to worry, the array of accommodations in Las Vegas means plenty of room availability at every budget (even for those last-minute planners!). Plus, most packages at hotels on the Strip offer a personal wedding planner to help bring your dreams to life.
6. It’s the ultimate destination-wedding location.
With many couples rethinking their travel plans, Las Vegas offers a one-of-a-kind destination wedding—no passport required. For example, you can transport your guests to a natural oasis at The Grove. The lush outdoor venue offers tranquil gardens, blossoming almond trees and an old-fashioned gazebo. For a truly unique experience, head to Mandalay Bay Las Vegas, where you can host a toes-in-the-sand ceremony at Mandalay Bay Beach. The 11-acre aquatic playground is conveniently located on resort property, complete with a private lagoon and unobstructed views of the iconic landscape of the Strip. Or take to the grandeur of the Encore at Wynn Las Vegas for the luxurious feel of a European getaway without leaving the US. Exchange vows at one of three breathtaking wedding salons for an unforgettable experience.
Ready to start planning? Visit Las Vegas has gathered tons of resources to help you plan your day in the Wedding Capital of the World.