The Sun Valley region is known for its beautiful mountain ranges, protected wilderness, and boundless outdoor activities regardless of the season. It’s truly an ideal location for your Sun Valley Idaho wedding or elopement. I’m excited to show you all the amazing wedding venues located in Sun Valley! But more than that, I’m here to give you a guide to all things Sun Valley wedding! From where to stay to what to do, I’m delving deep into everything that will make your wedding weekend a success.
Style is important to me as a photographer and when looking at Sun Valley Idaho wedding venues, I wanted to include places that allow for relaxed and natural moments. If you’re looking for venues with a rustic, scenic elegance, you’ll have plenty of options here. I’ve included wedding venues in Sun Valley ranging from historic and quaint to epic and luxurious. As you browse, don’t get too hung up on the image quality on some of these websites. (This is why a good photographer matters)! A photographer who understands your vision will bring any venue to life and will highlight the aspects you love most.
Looking for a Sun Valley wedding photographer or videographer? Schedule a call!
Sun Valley Idaho Wedding Venues
Sawtooth Botanical Garden
A go-to location for many Sun Valley weddings. Located in the valley with views of Bald Mountain and the rustic Trail Creek Cabin. Well-kept weddings grounds and classic outdoor wedding tent. As a result, this is a great spot for a large elopement experience.
This would be a great location for a sprint or summer event. Spanning 5 acres, the Sawtooth Botanical Garden is organized around five major gardens representing the five biomes of south-central Idaho—Sagebrush Steppe, Lava, Alpine, Montane and Riparian. Throughout the property, you’ll find art installations, educational beds, and some very special spaces including the Sawtooth Sandbox, the Garden of Of Infinite Compassion, the Prayer Wheel and, of course, our Visitor Center and Greenhouse.
Not to mention, no matter what time of year you get married, they have year-round events that would be fun for all types of wedding parties.
Availability: Year round
Guest Occupancy: The 5-acre lawn hosts various party sizes 250, and the greenhouse seats 35 to 40 guests
Vendor Restrictions?: none
Venue Style: Magical botanical garden and greenhouse for winter parties
Price: See their facility rental application for details on party size and prices.
Curfew: yes (sunup to sun down) 10pm
Alcohol Limitations?: No
Website: Click Here
Contact Information: 208.726.9358, racheal@sbgarden.org
Knob Hill Inn
The Knob Hill Inn is located in the heart of downtown Sun Valley. It’s a beautiful hotel with a great view of the Boulder Mountains. So if you’re looking for an all-in-one wedding venue, this is the place. You can customize the menu through their on-site restaurant, request rentals and equipment, and plan lodging accommodations for your guests.
It also offers an on-site restaurant, The Grill, that has the capacity to tailor your wedding menu needs.
For bigger weddings, you have the option of renting the entire property, which is a huge plus for those who crave absolute privacy in a warm and elegant setting.
For a small elopement, they offer private ceremonies with a package that includes a lawn, patio, or Fireplace Room ceremony, a night at the hotel, a bridal bouquet, a wedding cake for two, and a credit for your post-elopement dinner at The Grill.
Something to note on this venue: if you choose to have an outdoor wedding here, they’ll require you to put a deposit down on The Grill as well as have a tent in case the weather turns.
Availability: Year round
Guest Occupancy: outdoor space 150 guests, indoor space 125 guests
Vendor Restrictions?: Yes, they provide all catering
Venue Style: Romantic and rustic hotel with patio and garden
Price: $5,000, depending on the size of your party and lodging accommodations
Curfew: Not listed
Alcohol Limitations: Yes, they provide all bar services
Website:Click here
Contact Information: 208.726.8010
Galena Lodge
Located in the Boulder Mountains, this community owned lodge offers a calm escape with lovely scenery, great hiking trails, and campgrounds. You can experience your wedding in a stunning open meadow with wildflowers and an amazing mountain backdrop.
Even with their extensive abilities, Galena is really, at heart, a small business that cares deeply about the people they’re serving! All catering and alcohol is in house which makes it super convenient for any couple wanting to get married there.
The group that runs Galena has a passion for all things outdoors. So, if your wedding crew are interested in any outdoors activities this might be the perfect venue for you!
Availability: Year round
Guest Occupancy: 110
Vendor Restrictions?:
Venue Style: Rustic lodge + Scenic meadow for indoor or outdoor style wedding
Price: $3,400 for the venue, plus whatever catering package you choose
Curfew: 5pm to 11:00pm, additional charge of $500 for midnight departure
Alcohol Limitations?: Yes, Galena will provide all alcohol
Website: Click here
Contact Information: 208-726-4010, info@galenalodge.com
Warfield Distillery & Brewery
Offers 4 different event spaces with classy rustic decor and stunning views of Bald Mountain. Unique culinary experience with James Beard Award-Winner head chef Jay Veregee crafts a seasonal menu for your event. A fun way for guests to experience Warfield beers and spirits and hand-crafted cocktails.
The 4 spaces you get to choose from are The Deck, Restaurant, Mezzanine, and tasting room, each with their own capacity requirements. All the rooms contain their own unique and rustic charm, perfect for any Sun Valley Idaho wedding.
If that isn’t enough, the whiskey connoisseurs in your party, will love the fact that Warfield has it’s award-winning Organic American Single Malt Whiskey and Organic Gin, in addition to the house favorite Barrel-Aged Gin and Organic Vodka.
Availability: year round
Guest Occupancy: 400 guests
Vendor Restrictions?: Yes, they provide all catering services
Venue Style: Sophisticated, rustic mountain distillery
Price: Not listed
Curfew: Not listed
Alcohol Limitations: Yes, they provide all catering services
Website: Click here
Contact Information: 208.726.2739
Forest Service Park
Located in downtown Ketchum, The Forest Service Park is a quiet spot surrounded by spruce trees, historic buildings, and a beautiful mountain backdrop. Laid back and fun place for hosting a rehearsal luncheon or your elopement. Fill out a special event and park reservation application 7 days before your event to snag this spot!
Availability: Year round
Guest Occupancy: 100 +
Vendor Restrictions?: None
Venue Style: Public park
Price: Fees will vary based on the guest size and duration of events, Park Deposit (for reservations with more than 100 people) – $250
Curfew: 10pm
Alcohol Limitations: Yes, permit & license required
Website: Click here
Contact Information: 208.726.7820, events@ketchumidaho.org
Sun Valley Resort Wedding Venue Options
Sun Valley Resort is known as the “palace in the snow” with its historic ski-town charm and amazing mountain views. So if you’re looking for a posh location for all-season events, this is an ideal spot. It’s all-encompassing, with lodging for guests, great photography locations, and several event venues. Browse through these amazing indoor and outdoor locales to find something that suits your style.
Trail Creek Pavilion
A go-to location for many Sun Valley weddings. Located in the valley with views of Bald Mountain and the rustic Trail Creek Cabin. Well-kept weddings grounds and classic outdoor wedding tent. As a result, this is a great spot for a large elopement experience.
This location has a stunning outdoor lawn area for the ceremony, and an indoor tent area with bistro light and chandeliers. Not to mention the stunning view of Balm Mountain. This is one of the most popular wedding venue spots in Sun Valley Idaho.
Availability: May – October
Guest Occupancy: 250 seated
Vendor Restrictions?: None listed
Venue Style: Mountain, Classic
Price: $12,000
Curfew: Not listed
Alcohol Limitations?: None listed
Website: Click here
Contact: weddings@sunvalley.com, (208) 622-2047
Trail Creek Grounds
Nestled at the bottom of the Pioneer Mountains and surrounded by National Forest, the grounds feature an expansive lawn, horseshoe pits, picnic tables, chuck wagon buffets, barrel bars, barbeque grills, paved walkways, and private restrooms. Dance around the natural gas fire pit as the band plays on the charming log bandstand.
Located just across the Creek for the famous Trail Creek Cabin, the Trail Creek Grounds offer the perfect venue for a lively welcome barbecue or relaxed outdoor wedding.
Availability: June through September
Guest Occupancy: 800 seated, 1,500 reception
Vendor Restrictions?: None listed
Venue Style: Relaxed, outdoor lawn, picnic style
Price: $6,000
Curfew: None listed
Alcohol Limitations?: None listed
Website: Click here
Contact Information: weddings@sunvalley.com, (208) 622-2047
Limelight Ballroom
Located in the center of Sun Valley Resort. Features extravagant chandeliers and a private outdoor terrace. With retractable walls, the Limelight Ballroom can be tailored to your guest size. Spectacular location for wedding photography any time of year.
Also, the beautifully appointed Limelight Ballroom, located in the heart of the Sun Valley Resort, offers a luxurious backdrop for your dream wedding or special event. You really can’t go wrong if you’re looking for something mostly indoor and elegant!
Availability: Year round
Guest Occupancy: 550 seated, 1,000 standing
Vendor Restrictions?: None listed
Venue Style: Luxurious ballroom with private terrace
Price: $5,000 to $8,000
Curfew: None listed
Alcohol Limitations?: None listed
Website: Click here
Contact Information: weddings@sunvalley.com, (208) 622-2047
Trail Creek Cabin
Cabin restaurant built in 1937, makes for a historic and charming venue. Next to trail creek and Bald Mountain. Only accessible by sleigh, wagon, or car. Give your guests the full mountain getaway here!
This area also has an extensive lawn for any ceremony! In addition, they have an outdoor fire pit and picnic tables. And of course, if that charm wasn’t enough, the log cabin itself is so charming.
Availability: Year round
Guest Occupancy: 66 guests in the main cabin
Vendor Restrictions?: None listed
Venue Style: Intimate mountain cabin with lawn area, accessible by sleigh, mountain, or car
Price: $6,000
Curfew: None listed
Alcohol Limitations?: None listed
Website: Click here
Contact Information: weddings@sunvalley.com, (208) 622-2047
River Run Lodge
Located between the Big Wood River and the base of Bald Mountain. You can make all the magic happen here with a picturesque lawn for the ceremony, make a toast on the patio, and plenty of space for dinner and dancing in the dining room.
Nestled between the picturesque Big Wood River and the base of Bald Mountain, River Run Lodge provides an unparalleled setting that is equally spectacular in all seasons.
Please note: In the peak summer months (late June through early September), events at River Run must begin after 5pm. During the winter ski season (Thanksgiving through early April), events must begin after 7pm.
Availability: Year round, timing restrictions, see above
Guest Occupancy: 160 main dining room, 350 all dining rooms
Vendor Restrictions?: None listed
Venue Style: elegant lodge
Price: $8,500
Curfew: None listed
Alcohol Limitations?: None listed
Website: Click here
Contact Information: weddings@sunvalley.com, (208) 622-2047
Wild Horse Creek Ranch
Note: This venue is 22 miles SW of Sun Valley)
The Wild Horse Creek Ranch is a stunning, mountainous ranch located in an old mining town between Mackey and Sun Valley. It’s worth the trek if you’re looking for a true western style elopement. Guests have access to a fully equipped industrial kitchen with walk-in refrigerators available to large groups who would like to cook for themselves or bring a caterer. There isn’t a ton of information on their website, so it’s best to contact them directly.
Venue Style: Western lodge and ranch
Website: Click here
Contact Information: 208.588.2575
“We are so grateful to have had you take our pictures this weekend. It was truly a dream, and you were so pivotal in making everything amazing. We’re over the moon.”
– Megan
Favorite Wedding and Event Planners in Sun Valley Idaho
Since Sun Valley is such a unique and niche place, the standout planners who work their regularly will be able to help make all your plans and dreams come true! It’s important to have wedding planners that not only help execute your day, but design it in a way that showcases all the hard work you put into getting there.
Megan Mahoney Creative
Megan has several planning options to choose from. I adore her and actually got to shoot her wedding in Sun Valley, which was such a memorable celebration at River Run Lodge. As Megan has not only planned weddings in Sun Valley, but also gotten married there, she has unique insight into crafting the perfect event for you.
Amanda Seward Absolute Weddings
Amanda is another great planner who has been featured in Martha Stewart Real Weddings and has worked at every Sun Valley wedding venue in existence. She’s been helping plan weddings in Sun Valley since 2004, and knows so many outstanding vendors in the area.
Sprout Design
Sprout will help to design the most beautiful wedding day in Sun Valley Idaho. They’ve created amazing looks from winter wonderlands to New Orleans in Sun Valley. They’ve got such a beautiful array of weddings and testimonials so be sure to check them out for your design and planning needs!
Emily Aitken Events
Emily designs and plans beautiful and show-stopping weddings at venues in Sun Valley, Idaho and beyond. It can be incredibly stressful planning a wedding, let alone a whole weekend for your wedding party or guests in Sun Valley, but Emily has got you covered!
Other Stand-Out Vendors in the Sun Valley Wedding Scene
Mountain Source Music is a DJ that would perfectly complement your Sun Valley wedding! He’s worked at many of the Sun Valley wedding venues, and even got married at one himself! He has lived and breathed music, and knows exactly how to help run your wedding day.
Floret Design Studio enhances every event space with luxury and stunning florals. As the owner was born and raised in Sun Valley, Idaho, she knows the way to perfectly execute any florals for your Sun Valley event. She’s familiar with the wedding venues, the seasons, and what is available to truly enhance your day.
And for your hair and makeup needs, Mane Muse has got you! Located in Sun Valley, Idaho, they area salon focusing on modern and high-end looks that are meant to last you the whole wedding day and be perfect for in-person looks as well as in pictures.
The Weather in Sun Valley, Idaho
The best time to elope in Sun Valley is any time depending on what you’re looking for. The highway will always be tended to and services in the area are abundant. It’s a ski resort town so road crews are out daily making sure the area is accessible. To avoid crowds, I would try for outside of summer and winter but that’s all you’ll need to worry about. And, honestly, if you don’t mind the crowds, then summer and winter are hard to beat for this area! All the activities you could possibly want will be in high gear!
Sun Valley Wedding Venues are Accessible in All Seasons
You can’t go wrong in Sun Valley when choosing a wedding or elopement venue during the summer or winter. And if you’re looking to do a winter wedding with a guest-list full of skiers, you and your family can hit the slopes before the rehearsal dinner in one of the coveted vacation destinations for the rich and famous. Sun Valley Lake is right off the main drag, Sun Valley Road, and easy to access all year.
As a summer wedding option, there’s plenty of accessible spots along the Big Wood River and easy trails full of native wildflowers in full bloom, perfect for wedding portraits. One of the most popular wedding venues is the Trail Creek Pavilion. Barring any weather, a great backup that can be used year round is the Trail Creek Cabin.
No matter what season you choose, your event is sure to be stunning! Of course, just make sure you’re aware of what you’ll need to prepare for the weather. Maybe that’s renting a tent, booking something indoors, or having shade accessible for all your guests.
Because Sun Valley is such a hot spot, I like to remind couples not to sleep on your nearby vendors! Most will book up at least a year in advance so get the ones you want squared away as soon as possible!
Where to Stay for your Sun Valley Wedding
Since the surrounding areas are so close, family and friends can easily book places in Ketchum or Hailey. You can get the full gamut of price points for your Sun Valley Idaho wedding, from luxury lodges to quaint venues. There are many options, but you can generally expect to pay more in this area. Especially during peak seasons of summer and winter.
It’s no doubt worth the experience though. If you’re coming from out of town and expect a level of aesthetic from hired vendors.
5-Star Hotels in Sun Valley
Sun Valley Lodge
Sun Valley Lodge features stunning rooms with custom furnishings, cozy and warm wool carpet, and a granite entry. On site, you’ll find an amazing spa, glass-encased pool, and restaurants. It has all the comfort and elegance you would want in your getaway. Plus, as you’ll notice above, many of the venue locations are on-sight of the lodge’s grounds. So, this is a great option if you and your whole wedding party want to stay close to the action!
Elkhorn Inn
This gorgeous property has been renovated into a spectacular Sun Valley Vacation Lodge with 5 Bedroom suites, A/C, wood burning fireplace, and a huge deck over looking the Elkhorn Pond. Furthermore, guests have access to the Elkhorn community amenities. This includes the hot tub and seasonal access to pools, tennis, and discount to the Elkhorn Golf Course- all of which are literally steps away from the property.
Knob Hill Inn
Knob Hill Inn combines old-world European ski chalet charm on the outside with modern, yet warm amenities on the inside. This is perfect for any Sun Valley Idaho wedding group! From an indoor heated pool to daily breakfast to personalized care, this is such a great stay.
Or, if you’d rather have a more private experience for your Sun Valley Idaho wedding stay, consider these luxury stays at Airbnbs. All would be perfect for a summer or winter wedding.
Ketchum Ski Chalet with Views
Perched above Ketchum with a 360 degree view this newly renovated ski chalet is not to be missed. Cozy and inviting decor will have you kicking your feet up and relaxing in front of the fire. Walkable to downtown Ketchum and minutes to the ski hill. But not to be missed in the summer either where the views are spectacular and the walks are just as sweet.
Serene Ski Retreat
The home is surrounded by towering mountains and flowing rivers perfect for your activity of choice: hiking, biking, rafting, fly fishing, and more! Not to mention, you’ll discover endless powder runs at Sun Valley Resort nearby. When you’re not partaking in heart-pumping adventures, relax at this abode featuring a full kitchen, cozy living area, and spacious bedrooms!
Private Home with a Great Yard and Sun Valley Resort Amenities
You get this whole home to yourself! With a whole load of great amenities like patio that showcases a beautiful mountain view, a shared pool, and a great outdoor space. Perfect for summer or winter!
Things to Do for your Sun Valley Idaho Wedding
There are so many things to do in Sun Valley during both the summer and winter months. If you’re looking into activities and events, check out Festival Meadow. It is an event venue that can help you find perfect activities for your whole wedding crew. Or, you can check out the Sun Valley Pavilion for more events that might pique your interest!
Sun Valley caters to all kinds of enthusiasts. From their Writer’s Conference to ballet performances to musical guests to Oktoberfest. Whatever you’re planning for during your Sun Valley Idaho wedding weekend, this spot can deliver!
Outdoor Activities
Skiing, Riding, Hiking: Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain are the ideal locations for any of these activities. As you’ll notice, skiing is the highlight of winter season on Bald Mountain. It is also where destination skiing was born. Ski and ride on Bald and Dollar Mountains, and experience America’s first destination ski resort. Bald Mountain’s consistent pitch, lack of lift lines, and variety of terrain have earned it a reputation as one of the world’s finest ski mountains. And in the summer, horse back riding and hiking is beautiful on all the trails peppering Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain.
Biking: Bald Mountain has many trails for bike enthusiasts! And, if you don’t bring your own bike, Sun Valley Lodge has rentals for you and your wedding guests. With over 400 miles of singletrack spread throughout the valley, the mountain biking is some of the best and most scenic in the country. Bald Mountain now boasts America’s longest purpose-built downhill trail and over 3,100 vertical feet of thrilling lift-accessed trails. Meanwhile, for a milder, family-friendly experience, head to the White Clouds trail network. Or meander through town along the leafy Wood River Trail, with over 30 paved miles to explore.
Horseback Riding: The Sun Valley Stables offer guided trail rides that wind through picturesque mountain meadows alongside pristine streams, guided by their friendly equestrians. Sun Valley Stables also provides western horsemanship lessons and training programs for children and adults from beginner to intermediate-level riders.
Outdoor Fun for All Ages
Sleigh Rides: Enjoy a charming and festive experience for the whole family as the sleigh guides you through the snow covered landscape. Bask in the beauty of a true Sun Valley sunset with the snowy trees and hillsides illuminated by the stunning alpine glow. Meet at the Sun Valley Inn 10 minutes prior to your reservation. Each ride is approximately 40 minutes long. Dress warmly, blankets are provided, but we encourage guests to also bring their own. Grab a hot cocoa before and enjoy the ride! If that’s not enough, you can actually book a private sleigh ride!
Ice Skating: The Sun Valley Ice Rink is perfect for the whole family! And no need to bring your own gear as they rent everything on site! Not to mention, they have both and indoor and outdoor rink so perfect for all seasons.
Golf: At Sun Valley Resort, golf enthusiasts can indulge in a diverse golfing experience with three distinct courses showcasing unique terrains and charm. Collectively, these courses offer a total of 45 holes, along with two driving ranges and ample opportunities for practice putting.
Canoeing and Paddle boarding: Located a short walk from the Sun Valley Village, Sun Valley Lake is an easy escape from the heat. The calm waters of the lake provide an excellent setting for canoeing and kayaking. Paddle leisurely while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Indoor Activities
Shopping: Visitors can explore boutique shops showcasing high-end fashion and accessories. Browse through unique local artisan goods, and find outdoor gear and equipment for their adventure needs. Additionally, the resort provides a selection of specialty shops, including home decor and gift stores, ensuring a delightful shopping experience for all guests.
Movies: If you need an indoor activity, this might be the perfect option! Situated in the heart of Sun Valley Village, the charming Opera House was built in 1937 and serves as Sun Valley’s indoor movie and performance venue. Additionally, enjoy a great selection of beer and wine, classic movie theater candy, and their signature popcorn with real melted butter. The Opera House shows a wide variety of films, from the latest blockbusters, class films, and documentaries.
Fitness, Swimming, and Yoga: Whether you’re hitting the pool to relax or swim laps, Sun Valley Resort has options for you. Choose from one of three pools – including two year-round outdoor heated pools and one olympic pool open in the summer. The Fitness Center at the Lodge is outfitted with spin bikes, Precor aerobic equipment, Hoist weight machines, free weights, and a serene fitness studio. Views of the new and expansive pool/cabana area and Baldy Mountain are sure to inspire you to push your workout just a bit.
Bowling: Infused with soulful 1950’s vibes and a rich history stretching back decades, the Bowling Alley and Game Room at Sun Valley Lodge is one of the Northwest’s oldest bowling alleys. As a result, this is an excellent destination for families, with kid-friendly features like bumper lanes and lightweight balls, making it accessible for children and beginners.
Visit Sun Valley is such a great resource for all your activity needs!
How to Get to Sun Valley
There are several options on getting to Sun Valley! If you want to get directly into the valley the airport in town has direct flights to and from Salt Lake City, Denver, and Seattle! So convenient and amazing! But, this can be expensive since it’s smaller, local airport.
Another option is to fly into Boise, Idaho, rent a car, and drive the 2.5 hours through the scenic hills to Sun Valley. If you’re able, this is such a fun addition to your wedding trip, and really gives you the beauty in Idaho.
Well, if you made it through the whole guide, then I’m sure you’ve got things covered by now! These are all the resources you need to make your Sun Valley Idaho wedding weekend as perfect as it can be. From searching for the best venue, other vendors, and knowing how to get there and what to do while there, I’ve got all the resources you need to have the best wedding ever. And, of course, if you’re looking for a photographer and videographer team to take everything to the next level, I’d love to connect!
Let’s chat about your Sun Valley wedding! Book a call!
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