A newlywed couple celebrates inside the rustic chapel at Nelson Ghost Town, the bride lifting her bouquet and the groom raising his hat in warm golden light

Nelson Ghost Town
Wedding FAQ

Everything couples ask before booking a wedding or elopement at Nelson Ghost Town in Eldorado Canyon — cost, the Nevada marriage license, directions from Las Vegas, guest limits, photography and more.

Cost & Packages

How much does a wedding at Nelson Ghost Town cost?

Three flat-rate packages: the "Just Us" Elopement is $850 for the couple only, the Intimate Gathering is $1,299 for up to 20 guests, and the Grand Celebration is $1,599 for up to 50 guests. Professional photography, a licensed officiant, a sunset ceremony option and free date changes are included in every package. See the full packages & pricing page.

What is the difference between the three packages?

The ceremony experience is the same at every level. The larger packages add guest capacity — 20 guests for the Intimate Gathering, 50 for the Grand Celebration — and include desert-inspired bridal flowers, which are an add-on on the $850 elopement.

What is included in every package?

A sunset ceremony option, a licensed officiant who files your certificate with Clark County, professional photography, your choice of a civil or religious ceremony, personalized vows, a free witness, and free date changes. The Intimate Gathering and Grand Celebration also include a bridal bouquet and boutonniere.

Are there any hidden fees?

No. The package price is the price. The only costs outside the package are your Nevada marriage license (about $102 from the Clark County Clerk) and transportation to Nelson Ghost Town, which is roughly 45 miles from the Las Vegas Strip.

Can I add guests beyond the package limit?

The Grand Celebration covers up to 50 total guests including the couple. If your group is larger, contact us for bespoke pricing.

Do you offer vow renewals?

Yes. Vow renewals use the same three packages. If you want portraits at Nelson Ghost Town without a ceremony, see the $500 Ghost Town Photo Shoot.

Booking & Payment

How far in advance should I book?

As early as possible. Peak spring and fall dates book quickly — four to six weeks out is a good target — though last-minute requests are always welcome. Your date is secured with a $300 deposit.

What is the deposit and cancellation policy?

A $300 deposit confirms and holds your date. It is non-refundable but fully transferable — if plans change we apply it toward a new date at no extra cost. The deposit also counts toward your package total, so it is not an added fee.

Can I change my wedding date?

Yes. Date changes are always free. Reach out and we will move your reservation to any available date, no questions asked.

What payment methods do you accept?

Cash, credit card, and check. The $300 deposit is due at booking and the balance is due on or before your ceremony day.

The Ceremony & Marriage License

Do I need a Nevada marriage license?

Yes. A Nevada marriage license is required and must be obtained before your ceremony. The Clark County Clerk's Office in Las Vegas issues licenses the same day, so most couples pick theirs up on the way to Nelson Ghost Town. We provide full guidance when you book.

Can I get the marriage license the same day as my wedding?

Yes. The Clark County Clerk's Office issues same-day marriage licenses. There is no waiting period and no blood test in Nevada. Both people must appear in person with valid photo ID.

Can we have a civil or a religious ceremony?

Either. Every package includes your choice of a civil or a religious ceremony, led by our licensed officiant and written to reflect your beliefs and your story.

Can we write our own vows?

Yes. Personalized vows are included in every package. You are welcome to write your own, and we can also provide traditional vows if you prefer.

How many guests can I bring?

The "Just Us" Elopement is couple-only, with a witness provided. The Intimate Gathering accommodates up to 20 guests including the couple. The Grand Celebration accommodates up to 50 guests including the couple. For a larger group, contact us for bespoke pricing.

How much time should we plan for the wedding?

Plan for roughly 3.5 hours total, including travel time from Las Vegas. That covers the drive, the ceremony, and photography around the ghost town afterward without feeling rushed.

Getting There

Where is Nelson Ghost Town?

Nelson Ghost Town sits on the floor of Eldorado Canyon in Clark County, Nevada, on Highway 165 (Nelson Road). It is a preserved gold and silver mining town about 45 miles southeast of the Las Vegas Strip. More about the setting on the Eldorado Canyon page.

How far is Nelson Ghost Town from the Las Vegas Strip?

About 45 miles, or a 45-minute drive — south on US-95, then east on Highway 165 into Eldorado Canyon.

Is transportation included?

No. Transportation is not included. A personal vehicle works well, and charter transport can be arranged for you and your guests.

Is there parking at Nelson Ghost Town?

Yes. There is free parking on site at Nelson Ghost Town.

Photography & Vendors

Is photography included?

Yes. Professional photography is included in every wedding package — your ceremony, group photos, and candid and creative portraits around the ghost town after your vows.

When will we receive our wedding photos?

Professionally edited, high-resolution images are delivered by private download link, typically emailed within days of your ceremony. They are yours to keep, print and share.

Can our guests take photos?

Guest smartphones are warmly welcome. To preserve the integrity of the ceremony, we ask that guests use mobile devices only — no professional cameras or equipment from guests.

Can I bring my own photographer or other vendors?

No. Outside vendors are not permitted at Nelson Ghost Town, including photographers, videographers, officiants, florists and décor suppliers. We are a full-service company and everything is provided by our in-house team.

Weather & Timing

What is the best time of year to get married at Nelson Ghost Town?

Eldorado Canyon enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year. Spring and fall have the most comfortable temperatures and book quickly. Summer ceremonies are scheduled for early morning or the golden hour before sunset.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Extreme weather is rare in Eldorado Canyon. In the event it does occur, we work with you to reschedule at no charge — date changes are always free.

We're Happy to Help

Reach out any time — or submit a reservation request and we'll confirm availability within 24 hours.

Or reach us at (702) 914-0198  ·  [email protected]