Indianapolis State House Wedding Days

There is no backdrop in Indianapolis more breathtakingly grand, more quintessentially Hoosier, and more photographically perfect than the Indiana Statehouse. As an Indianapolis wedding photographer who has documented ceremonies here, I can tell you without hesitation: the Statehouse is magic for couples who want elegance, drama, and a sense of timeless significance on their wedding day.

Completed in 1888, the Indiana Statehouse is a Renaissance Revival masterpiece of Indiana limestone, standing proudly at 200 W. Washington Street in the heart of downtown. Its 256-foot dome is the second-tallest unsupported dome in the world (behind only St. Peter’s Basilica), and the interior is a symphony of marble, mahogany, and murals that feels like a European palace dropped right into the Midwest. For weddings, the Statehouse offers several iconic spaces, each with its own personality and photographic superpower.

Getting married at the Indiana State House is easier and more budget-friendly than many couples realize. Managed by the Indiana Department of Administration (IDOA), the venue offers flexible packages tailored to different group sizes and needs. For smaller gatherings of 1–50 guests, the Standard Ceremony package starts at $1,125 for a two-hour rental during peak times, including setup, sound equipment, and basic amenities. Larger weddings (25–450 guests) can opt for the Full Ceremony package, priced at $1,100 for off-peak dates and $1,650 for peak, which includes four hours of access, tables, chairs, linens, and full setup/teardown. These rates cover the iconic rotunda or atrium spaces, where the dome's natural light filters through stained glass and illuminates marble columns and intricate mosaics. The venue is available year-round, with peak season typically May through October, but winter weddings here glow under the holiday decorations that often adorn the halls.

One of the State House's best-kept secrets is its appeal for elopements. For simple, intimate ceremonies during normal business hours (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.), no permit is required if you're keeping it small and standing-room only, no chairs, no elaborate setups. This makes it an incredibly affordable option, often with little to no venue cost beyond any optional add-ons. Couples can exchange vows in the rotunda with family circling, the grand architecture providing a stunning, built-in backdrop. I've photographed elopements here that feel profoundly personal, with the echoing halls amplifying every whispered promise. For a touch more formality, book a short rental slot, but the beauty of State House elopements is their simplicity, perfect for couples who want history without hassle.

From a photography perspective, the Indiana State House is a dream for outdoor and indoor shoots alike, blending historic charm with abundant natural light. The building's central dome, the marble floors reflect light beautifully, adding depth to images, while the intricate details, gilded moldings, grand staircases, and mosaic floors provide endless creative backdrops.

To make State House weddings even more accessible, I offer a tailored State House Elopement & Intimate Collection with 4 hours of coverage starting at $1,600. This package is designed for smaller ceremonies and elopements and includes 4 hours of wedding photography coverage with a second photographer. This collection is available year round Monday-Thursday. It can be booked 30 days in advance for Friday-Sunday weddings.