Cakewalk’s Favorite Outdoor Ceremony Spots in Austin
Austin knows how to do outdoors — and that’s great news for anyone planning a tiny wedding.
Whether you want a breezy lakeside vow exchange, a nature-heavy park moment, or a city-adjacent ceremony with skyline views, Austin has no shortage of outdoor locations that are public, beautiful, and easy to work with. Best part? With Cakewalk, we help you skip the red tape and make it all feel effortless.
Here are some of our favorite outdoor spots in Austin for elopements and intimate ceremonies — all tested, trusted, and loved by Cakewalk couples.
🌿 Zilker Park (Great Lawn Area)
Zilker is Austin’s most iconic park for a reason. The Great Lawn offers clear skyline views, huge oaks for shade, and plenty of open space for up to 20 guests. It’s central, photogenic, and gives you that wide-open feel that small weddings thrive in.
Vibe: Classic, green, and very Austin
Permits: Sometimes required for formal setups; we’ll advise
Nearby photo ops: Barton Springs, South Lamar murals, skyline shots
🌊 Mount Bonnell
If you’re up for a short stair climb, Mount Bonnell rewards you with stunning views of the Colorado River and Hill Country — especially at sunset. It’s simple, breathtaking, and feels like a world away from the city.
Vibe: Scenic, romantic, epic
Permits: Not needed
Best time: Golden hour, always
🐦 Mayfield Park
A little wild, a little hidden, and home to free-roaming peacocks, Mayfield Park has quiet trails, lily ponds, and a tucked-away garden feel that’s perfect for couples who want nature without the crowds.
Vibe: Dreamy, botanical, offbeat
Permits: Usually required, but worth it
Guest size tip: Best for smaller groups under 12
🌇 Long Center Lawn
Looking for a skyline backdrop? The Long Center’s lawn is open, spacious, and perfectly positioned to give you downtown Austin in the background while still feeling like a nature-forward location. It’s also great for post-ceremony photos.
Vibe: Urban-natural hybrid
Permits: Usually not needed for small groups
Extra bonus: Easy access to Auditorium Shores and Lady Bird Lake for a photo walk
🌳 Butler Metro Park
This one’s a bit of a sleeper hit. Less crowded than Zilker, it’s got landscaped paths, native grasses, and shaded groves that feel intentionally wild. Ideal for laid-back couples who want a no-fuss space to say their vows.
Vibe: Serene, modern, flexible
Best for: Morning ceremonies and soft light
💡 Bonus: Guerilla Elopement Spots We Love
Sometimes, the best locations are the ones not listed on wedding blogs. With Cakewalk, we scout and suggest surprise spots that fit your vibe — think:
A quiet hill above Barton Springs
A little bridge in the Greenbelt
An empty overlook with views that hit just right
Small weddings give you freedom. Let’s use it.
📝 What to Keep in Mind
Permits: We’ll guide you. Most of these spots don’t require one unless there’s setup involved.
Weather: Austin heat is real. Morning and sunset are your friends.
Footwear: Bring the fancy shoes, but maybe walk in sneakers. Your feet will thank you.
Sound: Outdoor ceremonies are raw and real — and that’s kind of the point. You might hear a dog, a guitar, or a lawnmower. Embrace the moment.
We’ll Help You Find Your Spot
At Cakewalk, we know that the location sets the tone — and we don’t do “just good enough.” We’ll help you pick a place that fits your style, keeps things simple, and makes the whole day feel right.
Want help picking your perfect outdoor ceremony spot in Austin? Let’s make it happen.