Great Falls Park has been the location for many wedding ceremonies over the years. The most popular locations are next to the Falls overlooks, which offer stunning views of the waterfall and river. The picnic area by Overlook 3 has a nice view of the Falls with space for larger wedding parties.

On this page you will find general information, a printable brochure, important things to know about weddings at Great Falls, and permit information. Please review all information carefully and contact the park at 703-285-2965 with additional questions.

General Information

Anyone planning a wedding at Great Falls Park is encouraged to visit the park and inspect potential wedding sites. Wedding planners are encouraged to select at least two locations. A Ranger or other staff member will be happy to take you out to see potential sites and to explain the specifics about each location.

For a printable copy of our Wedding Information brochure, click on the document link below. It will open in a new window.

Wedding Information- Adobe .pdf file

Some important things to know:

• Weddings may not be conducted on the Falls Overlooks. Weddings are often held adjacent to Overlook 3, but access to the overlooks may not be blocked to other visitors.
• Weddings may not restrict access of other visitors to paths or overlooks.
• Wedding parties do not have exclusive use of the area in which they are conducting their ceremony. No area may be roped off or otherwise reserved.
• No vehicles are allowed in the picnic area.
• Posting of signs on trees or park signs is prohibited.
• Alcohol is prohibited.
• Event tents, awnings and canopies are not permitted. No covered facilities are available.
• Chairs may be used for guests, but must be hand carried to the site.
• Acoustic music is allowed as long as the sound level does not disturb other visitors.
• Picnic tables and grills are first come, first serve. No reservations are accepted.
• Standard entrance fees will apply. Photographers and other related professionals will be required to pay the entrance fee.
• Parking is on a first come, first serve basis. Spaces may not be reserved. Handicap parking is available. On nice weekend days in the lat spring through early fall, it is common to have long entrance lines and waits to enter the park. Parking lots can also fill to capacity on busy days by mid afternoon.

Wedding Permits

All wedding ceremonies require a permit. There is no charge for the permit. However, standard entrance fees apply for all wedding ceremonies.

To apply for a permit, call the George Washington Memorial Parkway permit office at 703-289-2513.

For a copy of the permit application, please open either file below. Fill in the application and mail or fax it to the Permit Office.

Application for Special Use Permit- Adobe .pdf file

Application for Special Use Permit- Word document