If you’re drawn to vintage Americana, wild desert backdrops, and one-of-a-kind wedding photos, a nelson ghost town wedding might just be your perfect match. Located about 45 minutes outside of Las Vegas in the heart of Eldorado Canyon, Nelson Ghost Town is a historic gold mining site turned offbeat wedding venue—and it’s become a favorite for adventurous couples looking to do something different.

Whether you’re planning a private elopement, a micro-wedding with friends, or just portraits after your ceremony, this unique setting delivers tons of character, beautiful light, and the kind of creative energy that makes for unforgettable photos.

Why Couples Choose Nelson Ghost Town

There’s nothing quite like this place. A nelson ghost town wedding combines rugged desert scenery with rusted-out cars, antique barns, and quirky backdrops that feel like stepping into another era. Here’s why it works so well:

• Tons of variety – Every direction gives you something new: red cliffs, cacti, old trucks, even a vintage plane
• All-in-one venue – You can get ready, get married, and take your photos all in the same place
• Private and peaceful – Far from the Strip and the crowds, it’s just you, the land, and your story
• Truly unique vibes – It’s Western, it’s boho, it’s gritty—in the best way

If you want to skip the ballroom and say your vows somewhere with personality, nelson ghost town weddings are worth a look.

Is Nelson Ghost Town Right for Your Wedding?

This venue is ideal if you’re the kind of couple who:

• Loves old cars, vintage signs, or rustic western charm
• Wants a venue that feels more like an adventure than an event
• Prefers unique photo ops to classic ceremony setups
• Wants to combine elopement ease with great visuals

It’s a popular option for couples eloping in Vegas who want something visually richer and more private than a chapel on the Strip.

How to Have a Wedding at Nelson Ghost Town

This location is privately owned, so unlike public lands like Red Rock, you’ll book it directly with the site. Here’s how to make it happen:

1. Contact Nelson Ghost Town for Availability

The property is owned and operated by the folks at Eldorado Canyon Mine Tours. You’ll need to book ahead for both ceremony time and photo sessions.

👉 Eldorado Canyon Tours – Official Site

2. Pick a Ceremony Package

They offer various options depending on your needs. You can book:

• A simple photo session (no ceremony)
• An elopement package with time for vows
• A micro-wedding for small groups (under 30 guests)

Rates vary, but they’re known for being affordable—especially compared to traditional venues in Las Vegas.

3. Bring Your Own Officiant

Nelson Ghost Town doesn’t provide an officiant, so you’ll need to hire your own. Any legally registered Nevada officiant will work. You can find them through local elopement companies or book one independently.

👉 Clark County Marriage License Info

What to Expect at a Nelson Ghost Town Wedding

The property is filled with photo-worthy corners—classic cars, weathered buildings, vintage gas pumps, and even a crashed airplane. While it’s technically a tourist attraction, it feels incredibly quiet and peaceful once you’re inside the gates.

Keep in mind:

• You’ll need to sign a location agreement ahead of time
• The venue limits the number of guests depending on the package
• There’s no loud music, big parties, or formal setups—it’s more about vibe than formality
• It’s all outdoors, so dress accordingly (especially in summer heat)

Best Time of Day for a Nelson Ghost Town Wedding

Just like with Red Rock, the best time for a nelson ghost town wedding is golden hour—the hour before sunset. The low light brings out the rusty textures, softens the desert shadows, and creates the kind of glow that makes every photo look cinematic.

Avoid midday when the light is harsh, and if possible, plan for a weekday to avoid crowds or overlapping events.

What to Wear for your wedding

This is your chance to go full vintage, western, or boho. Think:

• Flowy textures that move in the breeze
• Earth tones, warm neutrals, or jewel tones to contrast with the environment
• Statement accessories that play into the vibe (think bolo ties, boots, wide-brim hats)

👉 Lulus Wedding Shop – Great for affordable and photogenic desert wedding looks
👉 Reclamation Design Company – Unique boho gowns that photograph beautifully in rustic settings

Most importantly, wear what feels like you. The best Nelson Ghost Town wedding galleries are the ones that reflect each couple’s personal style.

Bringing Your Photographer to Nelson Ghost Town

As a photographer, Nelson Ghost Town is one of my favorite places to shoot around Las Vegas because of its natural texture, built-in props, and offbeat romance.

You’re welcome to bring your own photographer—and it’s one of the best decisions you can make here. I’ve photographed many weddings at Nelson Ghost Town and know how to work with its textures, hidden corners, and shifting desert light. Working with someone familiar with the space adds ease and creativity to your day.

Here are a few tips for getting the best photos:

• Use the entire space – Don’t just stick to one backdrop. The property is huge and full of hidden gems
• Mix portraits and details – Get close-up shots with old gas pumps or inside barn doors for variety
• Lean into the light – The way golden hour hits the metal and stone here is magic
• Bring movement – Walking, turning, dancing—these moments pop even more in a rustic setting

Want to see a real session here? Check out recent ghost town wedding photos.

Portraits at Eldorado Dry Lake Bed

If you’re already making the trip out to Eldorado Canyon, pairing your Nelson Ghost Town wedding with a portrait session at the nearby Eldorado Dry Lake Bed is a perfect way to round out your day. Just a short drive from the ghost town, this expansive desert flat is a favorite for post-ceremony photos.

The dry lake bed offers:

• Minimalist, wide-open space that contrasts beautifully with the texture and clutter of the ghost town

• Epic sunset light that wraps everything in gold

• A feeling of total stillness and cinematic scale—perfect for relaxed, romantic portraits

Many couples choose to do part of their session at Nelson and then head to the lake bed for golden hour or blue hour shots. It’s especially great if you want variety in your gallery without adding a lot of extra travel time.

Just keep in mind: there’s no shade, no restrooms, and plenty of dust—so pack accordingly!

What to Do After Your Nelson Ghost Town Wedding

Once the vows are said and the light is fading, you’ve got options. Head back to Vegas to celebrate, or plan a laid-back evening that matches the mood.

Some ideas:

• Dinner at Lotus of Siam or Main St. Provisions for a local-food vibe
• A celebratory stay at The English Hotel 👉 Book The English Hotel
• Or unwind at Red Rock Casino 👉 Red Rock Casino Resort
• Sunset portraits in the desert on your drive home
• A mini-honeymoon road trip through Arizona or Utah

The best part of a nelson ghost town wedding? You get all the experience, none of the stress.

Final Thoughts

A nelson ghost town wedding is for the couple that wants more than a venue—it’s for those who want a story. With historic charm, desert drama, and zero pressure to perform, it’s one of the most unique places to get married near Las Vegas.

📩 Reach out if you’re dreaming of a ghost town wedding—I’d love to help you bring it to life.