America's Best Wedding Venues

Brides / Designed by Amelia Manley

With seemingly endless wedding venue options to choose from, it’s hard to narrow down your choices and select a spot that aligns with your budget, location, and style criteria. Lucky for you, we did the research and legwork, scouring the country (and the Internet) to compile a master list of wedding destinations that are our go-to recs, year after year. From mountain locales with panoramic views and rustic-glam summer camps to chic landmarks in your all-time favorite cities, we’ve got a wedding venue for you, your partner, and your style.

If you’re into the grand outdoors, check out The Little Nell’s sundeck, which sits at a 11,000 feet and features panoramic views of the Elk Mountains, or Brush Creek Ranch, where you pose for portraits, exchange vows, and party on 30,000 acres of untouched landscape. Want a building with rich history? Wow your guests with the unexpected by booking an old library in Boston or a restored brewery in Austin, Texas. And foodies, don’t think we forgot about you. You’ll find your heaven on either coast, whether you’re into the stellar wine list at Meadowood Napa Valley in California or farm-fresh fare at Blue Hill at Stone Barns in upstate New York.

Keep reading to find more wedding venue inspiration—believe us, we’ve got it.

Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Connecticut

Buy out this charming 30-room escape for great sights and even better service. Photo ops are endless in the Shakespeare Garden, where you’ll exchange vows, as well as inside the resort’s all-white spa.

The Barn at Flanagan Farm in Buxton, Maine

Take a 20-minute drive outside of Portland to this meticulously restored 19th-century barn, which is open year-round. There’s also a cozy farmhouse perfect for unwinding with your wedding party pre- and post-nuptials.

Boston Public Library in Boston, Massachusetts

Charm guests with dinner in book-lined Bates Hall, then head to the Abbey Room for a dance sesh overlooking the courtyard. Bonus: The caterer will ensure you eat, too, thanks to goodie bags filled with fresh entrées, mini desserts, and bubbly for two.

Chatham Bars Inn in Chatham, Massachusetts

Tie the knot on the private beach before moving to a sailcloth tent or one of the oceanfront dining rooms for a lobster dinner and dancing. Then you’re just steps from the bars on Main Street if you want to continue the party.

Bonnet Island Estate in Manahawkin, New Jersey

Want your own private island? You can have that, as well as an open-air chapel and a rustic ballroom (that looks like the inside of a ship) overlooking Manahawkin Bay.

Oheka Castle in Huntington, New York

You may recognize it from T. Swift’s “Blank Space” video, but this mega mansion has even more to offer, like 23 acres of privacy.

Gramercy Park Hotel in New York, New York

If you’re dreaming of a garden oasis in the city, look no further than this 18th-floor terrace. It comes with a customizable Danny Meyer menu and a retractable roof.

Rainbow Room in New York, New York

Take over the 65th floor of famed Rockefeller Center. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another spot with such epic views—or a rotating dance floor.

Blue Hill at Stone Barns in Pocantico Hills, New York

Head to this upscale farm an hour’s drive outside of NYC for the freshest fare, impeccable service, and a bucolic backdrop.

Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This top-notch destination is finally hosting weddings. Choose from the sculpture garden, art-deco Perelman Building, or Rodin Museum, where you can wed in front of The Thinker.

Castle Hill Inn in Newport, Rhode Island

Brides rave about the nightly campfire at this nautical landmark, saying it’s the spot for a nightcap by Narragansett Bay.

The Hay-Adams in Washington, D.C

Give your guests the ultimate District experience at the Top of the Hay, where they can sip champs and snap #selfies with the White House.

Pérez Art Museum Miami in Miami, Florida

If you want something unexpected, this is it. Think hanging gardens, views of Biscayne Bay and the city’s skyline, and a modern open-air portico.

The Breakers Palm Beach in Palm Beach, Florida

Everyone raves about the Gatsby-esque ballrooms (they are stunning), but it’s the resort’s attentive staff—from the pastry chef to the knowledgeable valet—that brides can’t stop gushing about.

The Biltmore Ballrooms in Atlanta, Georgia

In the heart of Midtown, you’ll find this historic landmark, which features an ivy-lined garden and two gilded ballrooms that are over-the-top in the best way possible.

The Cloister at Sea Island in Sea Island, Georgia

Choose between a quaint chapel and oak-filled gardens for the vows, then head over to the lawn for an oceanfront reception.

Fearrington Village in Pittsboro, North Carolina

Even if cows (with cowbells) aren’t your thing, you’ll fall for the grazing pastures and barn at this onetime dairy farm turned Relais & Chateaux property.

Southwind Hills in Goldsby, Oklahoma

With a honeymoon cottage and chandelier-filled barn on 130 acres, this all-inclusive venue has it all, including its own photo booth.

Cannon Green in Charleston, South Carolina

At this downtown restaurant, the staff creates an original menu for every couple. But no matter how you customize, don’t skip the rosé sangria.

RT Lodge in Maryville, Tennessee

Tell your squad to pack for a full weekend because this Smoky Mountain escape has everything you need for a fancy summer-camp experience.

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas, Texas

The service at this historic mansion deserves nothing short of five stars. Brides rave that the staff does its research on you—they even know your cocktail of choice and have it readily available.

Hotel Emma in San Antonio, Texas

This chic hotel is the talk of the town—and for good reason. Brides love the look of the restored 19th-century brewery almost as much as its entertaining chef.

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards in North Garden, Virginia

venue — Photo by Jen Fariello Photography

This beauty is a standout in wine country, thanks to its rustic-meets-chic barn, mountain views, and getting-ready suites for the to-be-weds.

Chicago Athletic Association Hotel in Chicago, Illinois

This Mag Mile hot spot is perfect for the couple who wants to explore Millennium Park before partying in a 19th-century ballroom.

Chicago Cultural Center in Chicago, Illinois

No additional décor is necessary at this Windy City landmark, thanks to mother-of-pearl mosaics and the world's largest Tiffany glass domed ceiling.

The Langham, Chicago in Chicago, Illinois

This modern hotel executes the ballroom wedding to perfection and adds perks like personalized robes in the honeymoon suite.

Zingerman’s Cornman Farms in Dexter, Michigan

It’s all about the food on this 27-acre working farm. From the famous mac and cheese to pulled pork that spent 14 hours smoking, the true farm-to-table fare is sure to win over the crowd.

Grand Hotel in Mackinac Island, Michigan

This resort is known for its front porch, which spans the length of nearly two football fields and overlooks Lake Huron.

Planterra Conservatory in West Bloomfield, Michigan

At this palm-filled oasis, the star staff will happily tackle your entire to-do list, handling everything from custom cocktails to upgraded rentals.

Aria in Minneapolis, Minnesota

With a flexible open floor plan and four VIP lounges (hello, after-party), this theater is ready for an A-list celebration.

Milwaukee Art Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Book the Quadracci Pavilion, designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, for a setting that looks as cool on the inside as it does out.

Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, Missouri

Take your pick of four wedding chapels, then move on to a cabin with 360-degree views of Table Rock Lake or to the lake itself, where there’s a yacht ready to host 45; Big Cedar Lodge.

Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis in St. Louis, Missouri

Four Seasons St. Louis — Courtesy of Four Seasons

Get hitched on the rooftop terrace, which has uninterrupted views of the city’s iconic Gateway Arch. You can’t get more St. Louis than that.

Cleveland Museum of Art in Cleveland, Ohio

CMA — Photo by Genevieve Nisly Photography

Pose for portraits with the museum’s oh-so grand exterior, and then meet your gang inside the glass-enclosed atrium for dinner and dancing under the stars.

Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort in Phoenix, Arizona

At this historic landmark, you can lounge in what was Marilyn Monroe’s favorite pool, then watch as guests are stunned by the hands-on service and breathtaking architecture, co-designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Korakia Pensione in Palm Springs, California

You’ll feel transported to another world at this Moroccan-meets-Mediterranean sanctuary featuring a strict no-kids policy and a nightly candle lighting that creates an über-romantic glow.

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside, California

The property’s gilded chapels and ornate ballrooms attract couples after old-world charm in SoCal. Not to mention, this place has been hosting memorable events for more than a century.

Meadowood Napa Valley in St. Helena, California

Foodies, take note. With a three-star Michelin restaurant and personal relationships with Napa’s greatest vintners, there’s something here to please the most discerning of palates.

Four Seasons Resort, The Biltmore Santa Barbara in Santa Barbara, California

After vows in front of the Santa Ynez Mountains, head to the La Pacifica Terrace for sunset cocktails with views of the Pacific—and perhaps even pods of leaping dolphins.

The Little Nell in Aspen, Colorado

You’ll be on top of the world, literally, as you wed, dine, and take in panoramic sights of the Elk Mountains from the Sundeck, which sits at 11,000 feet.

Dunton Hot Springs in Dolores, Colorado

Make this restored 1800's ghost town, with 13 cabins, a spa, and hot springs, yours for a weekend of outdoor adventures and epic summit scenery.

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino in Incline Village, Nevada

Get the best of the shore and the mountains at this lakeside property, where coordinators excel at even the smallest of details, like surprise mid-ceremony mimosas.

Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada

Find a moment of zen on the Strip at this elegant minimalist property that hosts parties of all sizes, from 24 guests in a luxe top-floor suite to 400 in one of the Waldorf Ballroom.

Castaway Portland in Portland, Oregon

Make this raw space whatever you like—from an industrial-chic fête in the restored warehouse to a romantic affair on the large patio.

Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley in Deer Valley, Utah

Come for the ski-in/ski-out access and stay for the lodge’s ability to host an indoor-outdoor event, which brides call a necessity with Utah’s unpredictable weather.

Sodo Park in Seattle, Washington

You’ll feel at home in this massive industrial space, thanks to its award-winning catering and a design studio that masters lighting.

Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming

Shoot clays in the morning or relax in the spa before you say “I do” mountainside. Later, party in a wooden barn or out in the open on the 30,000 acres of untouched terrain.

George Peabody Library in Baltimore, Maryland

The cast-iron columns and gold-leaf embellishments are perfect photo ops.

Mandarin Oriental in Las Vegas, Nevada

Vegas isn't just for bachelorette parties! This hotel mixes the beat of the city with the service of a luxury resort.

The Grand Arcade in Asbury Park, New Jersey

Go Boardwalk Empire big in this 1920s-era music hall on the Jersey Shore that holds up to 900 guests. For extra drama, exchange vows in the adjoining Gatsby-esque Paramount Theatre.

Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C

Don't let its incredible 62-foot columns and grand vaulted ceilings throw you off: This historic, 1930's federal building may look like it's reserved for the Obama family, but it's totally rentable year-round (and can accommodate several hundred guests). Use one of the Green Rooms for cocktails, then move to the ballroom for the most grand seated dinner ever—and don't forget photos on its famous balcony, overlooking D.C.

Sunset Key Cottages in Key West, Florida

Plan your big day on this private isle, a quick ferry ride from Key West, and have your guests fill the 40 pastel cottages.

The College of Physicians of Philadelphia in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Vows could be made in this medicinal herb garden. It is home to the Mütter Museum of medical history and has a beautiful Beaux-Arts style building perfect for a walk down the aisle.

Meridian House in Washington, D.C

Love vintage details? They'll mesh perfectly with the décor at this Louis XVI-style mansion.

Baywood Greens in Long Neck, Delaware

Before your ballroom reception in the clubhouse, ride to the 18th hole for portraits.

Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia

Get ready to see your name in lights at this Atlanta institution, where you can exchange vows in the opulent Egyptian Ballroom.

Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport, Maine

It doesn't get more romantic than I dos in the woods or gardens of this luxe, laid-back resort.

Crystal Ballroom at the Rice Hotel in Houston, Texas

With 35-foot ceilings and a rich history, this formal space is beloved by go-big-or-go-home Texas brides.

Café Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, Illinois

Dance the night away in the zoo's landmark atrium, with views of the Chicago skyline behind you.

Laurel Hall in Indianapolis, Indiana

The imposing stone facade and dark antique wood give this 1916 mansion a distinctly Downton Abbey feel.

Parker Palm Springs in Palm Springs, California

Listen up, design lovers: This Jonathan Adler-decorated hotel is full of poppy, retro details great for photos.

Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, Ohio

Get ready to save big time on décor. This Victorian-era greenhouse features tropical gardens, iron gazebos, and a Venetian-style fountain.

McNamara Alumni Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota

It's impossible not to make a grand entrance into Memorial Hall, an amazing wood-walled geometric space flooded with light.

Devil's Thumb Ranch in Tabernash, Colorado

Throw on a cozy shrug and wed outside in the winter—the mountain vistas redefine "white wedding"—then bust a move in the ranch's Civil War-era barn.

Sundance Mountain Resort in Sundance, Utah

Ski bunnies, mountain climbers, and nature lovers alike flock to this glamorous snow-capped chalet to tie the knot.

The Edgewater Hotel in Seattle, Washington

Edgewater Hotel in Downtown Seattle — Edgewater Hotel

The city's only over-water hotel sits over a pier with views of Elliott Bay and the Space Needle.

Belle Mer in Newport, Rhode Island

Walk down the aisle on this preppy resort's Ocean Lawn and celebrate in its sunlit ballroom.

Mountain Top Inn & Resort in Chittenden, Vermont

Spend your wedding night in a rental cabin on this secluded hotel's grounds, then explore 700 acres private acres of meadows and woods before joining your guests for brunch.

Laguna Gloria in Austin, Texas

Can't decide if you want a garden wedding or an artsy bash? Get both at this 100-year-old Italianate villa-turned contemporary art museum.

University Club of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois

This beautiful venue is only open to members and their sponsored guests. Even so, history buffs will appreciate its 19th-century private club, with its collegiate crests and lake views — it's like stepping back in time. After a day of getting ready in the club's many rich and impeccably kept rooms (they're filled with leather-bound books and smell of rich mahogany, if you know what we mean), sip Scotch cocktails with your guests in the historic library before dinner and dancing in the soaring Cathedral Hall.

Houston Station in Nashville, Tennessee

In true Nashville fashion, this huge restored early-1900's factory with exposed brick includes a café and band-ready stage for cocktail hour. You can even watch trains go by outside from the dance floor.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands, North Carolina

Watch the sun set over the Blue Ridge Mountains from the gardens at this farm resort. The bridal spa package is a must with your 'maids.

Villa Bellezza in Pepin, Wisconsin

This vineyard's picturesque ceremony spots and top-shelf wine bring Sonoma style to the Midwest.

The Wauwinet in Nantucket, Massachusetts

This preppy, 34-suite island resort can host a wedding for you and up to 150 of your guests. After a ceremony on the zen deck overlooking the ocean, end the day with a lobster bake on the water.

Blue Dress Barn in Benton Harbor, Michigan

Have a getting-ready sesh in the bridal suite, filled with original art, then have a ceremony to impress outside between two towering silos and a reception in the historic barn.

Caramoor Center for Music and Art in Katonah, New York

Music lovers can get married in the intimate sunken garden of this Spanish-style estate, home to year-round classical, opera, and jazz concerts, atop a stone-and-moss flight of stairs.

Front & Palmer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Have the chicest green wedding in town at this singular loft space with 35-foot ceilings. It's partially powered by solar panels, and it offers a sustainable menu by local foodie caterers.

MOHAI in Seattle, Washington

The Museum of History and Industry takes the phrase "industrial loft wedding" to a whole new level. Set in Seattle's Naval Reserve Building, the museum's Grand Atrium soars to four stories and can accommodate up to 750 guests. Make your grand entrance down a spiral staircase, surrounded by historical and military artifacts, and dine on long tables underneath a Boeing B-1 mail carrier suspended from the ceiling.

Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Walk down the aisle above all of Philadelphia in the rooftop garden, under a breathtaking glass dome with 360-degree city views, and make your grand entrance into the sweeping Perelman Theater's grand stage for an ultra-opulent seated reception.

Kunde Family Winery in Kenwood, California

Picture a gorgeous Sonoma vineyard. Now throw in the half-standing ruins of a 19th-century winery. After gasp-worthy vows, clink flutes over dinner in the volcanic-rock wine cave.

Leftbank Annex in Portland, Oregon

Exchange vows in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows at this huge former World War II airplane machine shop, a hipster bride's mecca loft space. (Fighter jet sold separately).

Longview Gallery in Washington, D.C

The art in this sleek gallery is so stunning, you can skimp on your décor budget. Set up long tables in the main hall and guests can peruse the paintings over dinner.

Stifel Theatre in St. Louis, Missouri

We can't decide which we love more for weddings, the ornate theater or the marble grand lobby. Either way, the in-house event staff will nail your celebration.

San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California

Since the 1893, this California dream destination has been the locus of fairy-tale romance for American royalty: Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier were married at the picturesque winery, and JFK and Jackie Kennedy honeymooned here. The 550 acres of vineyard and gardens are just as beautiful for an intimate ceremony and reception.

Maysara in McMinnville, Oregon

Get hitched on the terrace over the 500 acres of Oregon wine country or, on rainy days, in the lodge's main room. Tip: Keep the 74-foot doors open for vineyard views.

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona

The resort's lush gardens will make you forget you're in the Arizona desert. Gawk at the mountain views while you sample fare from celebrity chef Beau MacMillan.

Asticou Inn in Northeast Harbor, Maine

At this old-timey Mt. Desert Island inn, you can dine and dance by spectacular Northeast Harbor, then make your getaway via romantic sea kayak.

The Barn on Walnut Hill in North Yarmouth, Maine

The Barn at Walnut Hill in North Yarmouth

Dreaming of a woodsy barn affair, but don't want to sacrifice one bit of style? Look no further than this restored 19th-century barn and farmhouse, located on 4 acres of pristinely tended land north of Portland, Maine. After an outdoor ceremony, use the reclaimed chicken coop for cocktail hour before getting down in the post-and-beam barn, ornamented with wrought-iron chandeliers and sconces for the most refined rustic affair on the East Coast.

The Biltmore Hotel in Miami, Florida

With its architecture, cathedral-style halls, and white-glove service, this swank Coral Gables spot is a no-brainer for luxury-loving Miami brides.

The Club at Hillbrook in Chagrin Falls, Ohio

The Tudor mansion is a photographer's dream. Have him or her snap you and your partner smooching in the wrought-iron gazebo.

The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa in Manchester, Vermont

This pristine mountain hideaway is gorgeous all year, but a winter bash in the Colonnade Ballroom, surrounded by snow, is magical.

The Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois

It's a science geek's paradise: Offbeat couples can get married in the museum's main hall, Stanley Field, under the watchful eyes of Sue the dinosaur and two stuffed elephants.

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in Charleston, South Carolina

Save the 10-mile private beach for a romantic bike ride and get hitched on this huge golf resort's waterfront lawn for a seaside ceremony without all that sand.