10 Reasons to Get Married along the McKenzie River
Planning your dream wedding?
Nestled between Eugene and Bend, the McKenzie River is one of Oregon’s most stunning and welcoming destinations.
With its natural beauty, charming venues, and adventurous spirit, it’s the perfect place to say “I do.”
Tour local venues, meet vendors, and imagine your McKenzie River wedding:
Here are 10 reasons couples fall in love with getting married along the McKenzie River.
1.
Unforgettable Natural Beauty
The Valley is surrounded by towering evergreens, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views that include snow-dusted mountain peaks and stunning waterfalls. Your wedding photos will capture Oregon’s wild beauty in every frame.
2.
The McKenzie River Backdrop
Exchange vows to the sound of rushing water. The Wild & Scenic McKenzie River provides a romantic and one-of-a-kind ceremony setting.
3.
Venues for Every Style, Budget, and Size
Choose from rustic lodges, riverside inns, family-owned ranches, unique glamping sites, and intimate community spaces. Whether your style is casual, elegant, or adventurous, the McKenzie has a venue at a price point for every budget and size.
4.
Four Seasons of Romance
Each season brings something special—lush spring greens, golden fall colors, cozy winter snow, and warm summer sunshine. Above the fogline, the McKenzie Valley gets less precipitation and is ten degrees warmer in winter and cooler in the summer than nearby urban areas.
5.
Close to the City, Worlds Away
Just 30 minutes from Eugene and 90 minutes from Bend, the Valley is easy to reach for guests, yet feels like a peaceful retreat for your destination wedding – no plane ticket, no passport required.
6.
Delicious Local Food & Drink
From farm-to-table catering and Oregon wines to craft beer and riverside barbecues, the McKenzie offers local flavors your guests will remember.
7.
Iconic Backdrops for Photos
Lush old growth along the McKenzie River, waterfalls like Sahalie and Koosah Falls, the famous Blue Pool, historic McKenzie Pass, local flower farms, and iconic covered bridges create backgrounds for unforgettable wedding portraits.
8.
Adventure and Relaxation for You and Guests
Beyond the wedding day, guests can enjoy a full range of activities, from whitewater rafting, fly fishing, hiking, and biking to golf, hot springs, curated spa treatments, and scenic drives. Your wedding becomes a weekend getaway.
9.
Charming Lodging Options
Your guests can stay in riverside resorts, cozy cabins, boutique inns, glamping, upscale RV parks, or vacation rentals—many just minutes from venues.
10.
Authentic Community Hospitality
Family-owned businesses, local guides, and service providers have welcomed visitors for generations. We take pride in ensuring you and your guests will feel right at home on the McKenzie.
See the McKenzie River area for Yourself
If you’re dreaming of a McKenzie River Valley wedding, the best way to explore venues and services is to attend one of our upcoming Marriage on the McKenzie events:
Community Open House Events.
Tour local venues, meet vendors, and imagine your wedding in the Valley:
- Sunday, November 2, 2025, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Saturday, February 21, 2026, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Love in Oregon Wedding Show
- February 7–8, 2025 | Lane County Fairgrounds
Visit the Marriage on the McKenzie booth, meet Valley vendors, and gather inspiration for your big day.
Start Forever here on the McKenzie River
From rushing rivers to warm hospitality, the McKenzie River Valley has everything you need to celebrate your love. Join us at an upcoming event and discover why so many couples choose to begin their forever here.




