Wedding season is upon us!
There's no denying that weddings have changed since the COVID-19 pandemic began. While some couples opted to elope, others hosted intimate backyard weddings. As cases continue to drop, couples just starting out on their wedding planning are likely planning a bigger affair than some recently married couples were able to host. Still, though, concerns about safety may linger as a resul of living through the pandemic. As a result, more couples may be opting for outdoor venues. To help in their search, here are gorgeous outdoor venues in every state:
Alabama—Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion
If you've ever dreamed of a beach wedding, this might just be the venue for you. Say your vows with the sand beneath your toes and the waves washing up on the shore and then head over to the open-air pavilion for the cocktail hour and reception. This venue is the best of both worlds—the pavilion will shield you from the hot sun or any possible rain showers all while feeling like you're simply enjoying a beautiful day at the beach. This venue is located in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
Alaska—Alaska Botanical Garden
Alaska Botanical Garden has a "long-standing reputation for excellent customer service and as a beautiful garden haven," according to The Wedding Spot. The venue has both indoor and outdoor venues so there's some flexibility for any couples feeling nervous about future pandemic-related restrictions. Whether you choose indoors or outdoors, this venue, located in Anchorage, is the stuff of fairy tales with its many enchanting gardens.
Arizona—Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch
This venue is perfect for a wedding weekend packed with outdoor activities. Located in the foothills f the Goldfield Mountains, the Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch is a private retreat available to rent for your festivities. Not only can you say your vows in front of the Bulldog Cliffs, but you and your guests can go kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, volleyball, tubing, hiking, and swimming in the heated pool on premises all weekend long. Guests can stay on-property, as well, in designated cabins.
Arkansas—Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
This beautiful garden setting has it all. Couples can say 'I do' under the Botanical Garden of the Ozark's Rotary Peace Arbor surrounded by the blossoms of the Rose, Perennial Garden & Great Lawn. This outdoor space can accommodate up to 800 guests. Another option is to host your ceremony in one of the venue's small feature gardens. For nine years in a row, this venue was voted "Best Place to Get Married" in Northwest Arkansas by Citiscapes Magazine, as well.
California—Historic Cree Estate
This private estate in Palm Springs, California is a venue your guests will never forget. Wedding experts over at Here Comes the Guide recommend booking the estate for an entire weekend. "With six bedrooms, three kitchens and a formal dining room, the Cree can effortlessly take you from rehearsal dinner to post-wedding brunch," the site reads. The sprawling two-and-a-half-acre estate also includes gorgeous lawns and gardens, two swimming pools, and a swim-up bar.
Colorado—Denver Zoo
Calling all wildlife fans—this venue is for you. Get up and close and personal with your favorite animals while celebrating with your favorite people. Hosting your wedding at the Denver Zoo is certainly an unconventional option, but it will certainly be memorable.
Connecticut—Longshore Pavillion at Norwalk Cove
This outdoor, tented venue in Norwalk, Connecticut has it all. From the gorgeous sailcloth tent itself to the stunning views of the water, you won't need to splurge much on decorations. This venue is perfect for couples who appreciate a good meal, too, as the venue's caterer creates "season, bespoke menus" for their events, according to Here Comes the Guide.
Delaware—Delaware Center for Horticulture
This is a perfect venue for any couple passionate about conservation. According to the Wedding Spot, the Delaware Center for Horticulture, located in Wilmington, was first established in 1977 with the goal to cultivate "a green community by planting 40 community gardens throughout the city and inner-city." To help support that mission, the Center opens its doors for private events like weddings. The gorgeous space showcases a number of plants and sustainable garden art that elevates the venue to something truly spectacular.
Florida—Heitman House
While you may think of bigger cities like Miami, Tampa and Orlando when you think of Florida, but there are some hidden gems in the popular vacation state. Fort Myers is one of those locations. Not only is Fort Myers lose to the gulf and all its beaches, but it also has its own lively downtown area, as well. Sitting right near the bustling city center is the Heitman House, a gorgeous outdoor wedding venue. Built in 1908, the historic Heitman House includes beautiful grounds perfect for photos, both water and sunset views and a stunning wrap-around porch.
Georgia—The Piedmont Garden Tent
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the Piedmont Garden Tent will make you feel like you're in a glamorous ballroom when, really, you're hosting guests outside. The luscious gardens and grounds will be the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos, too.
Hawaii—Sunset Ranch
Located on O'ahu, Sunset Ranch is a favorite (and award-winning) venue among wedding sites like the Wedding Spot. The ranch sits on an expansive thirty acres on the North Shore of the island. You and your guests can take in the exquisite views of the ocean and the island. Guests can also take advantage of the numerous outdoor and indoor venues on location, tropical gardens, and guest suites.
Idaho—The Roosevelt Inn
With both indoor and outdoor options for your reception, the Roosevelt Inn is a great venue for those cautiously planning their wedding amid the pandemic. Couples can say their vows on the beautiful bed and breakfast's property, including hosting an al fresco reception on the well-manicued lawns. The privacy hedges will make your reception feel super cozy and intimate, as well.
Illinois–Odyssey Cruises Chicago
Set sail on Lake Michigan or the Chicago River for a totally unique wedding experience. Shoreline-cityscapes will be the backdrop of your big day if you choose Odyssey Cruises as your venue.
Indiana—Martha's Orchard
Couples can choose between two wooded areas for their wedding ceremonies. Once vows have been exchanged, the party can move on over to the open-air barn. The barn is equipped with all the essentials, including lighting and sound, to make the night epic.
Iowa—Jasper Winery
Conveniently located just minutes away from downtown Des Moines, Jasper Winery still feels like its own little world. According to the Wedding Spot, Jasper Winery specializes in premium wines made from grapes sourced locally in Iowa. The wine, of course, can be served at your wedding. Though there are indoor reception areas, you can have an outdoor wedding in their tent from May through October. Should you opt for the outdoor event, you'll truly be able to take in the beautiful scenery.
Kansas—The Kelly Gallery
This venue offers 10 acres features flower gardens, a lake, English garden walkways, and even a picturesque stone bridge over a small pond that takes you to a tree swing. Couples can say their vows by the water and then host your reception a tent on the beautiful grounds. The Kelly Gallery allows you to create the wedding of your dreams.
Kentucky—Terrapin Hill Farm
Located in the Bluegrass region of central Kentucky, this farm-style venue is the perfect spot for a country wedding. Host your festivities in either the barn or the rustic outdoor pavilion. Up to 8 people can even stay overnight in the 100-year-old farmhouse on-premises.
Louisiana—Afton Villa Gardens
This outdoor location is perfect for a rustic setting. The grounds and gardens are so picturesque you won't need to splurge on too many decorations or florals.
Maine—Merryspring Nature Center
This outdoor venue is perfect for small, intimate outdoor weddings. Merryspring's website describes the venue as "a garden setting, a living symbol of renewal, is a lovely way to reflect the joy and beauty of your special day."
Maryland—Blue Moon Rising
This outdoor venue features natural woodland "cathedral" for you to exchange your vows, which is appropriately called the "Universal Evergreen Chapel of Earth." The chapel sits nestled among pine trees and has a handmade branch arbor. Guests can stay in "tiny home"-inspired cabins on the resort property. Eac cabin has vintage furnishings and front porches to overlook the stunning natural views.
Massachusetts—Museum of Science
The Museum of Science may not be your first thought when you start looking for stunning outdoor wedding venues, but this location is a "matchless riverfront location," according to the museum's website. The open-air, riverfront Washburn Pavilion offers views of the Charles River and Boston and Cambridge skylines. The museum also offers tickets to Exhibit Halls for the weekend of your reception.
Michigan—Grand Hotel Mackinac Island
The venue is a National Historic Landmark, which makes it a great location for this history buffs out there. The Grand Hotel features an "array of unique locations" for couples to say their vows, including the Grand Hotel Front Porch and the Grand Hotel Tea Garden.
Minnesota—Pier B Resort
This waterfront wedding venue is a destination all by itself. Pier B Resort, which is located Duluth, delivers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the Duluth Bridge. What more could you wish for?
Mississippi—Oak Hill Stables Bed & Breakfast
Oak Hill Stables promises that even the "most discerning" brides will fall in love with their charming venue. Located just outside downtown Oxford, this venue is both convenient and beautiful.
Missouri—Margaritaville Lake Resort
Located right on the Lake of the Ozarks, this resort is an unbeatable location for your Missouri wedding. You can tie the knot at Sunset Point, a romantic patio looking out over the lake.
Montana—Camelot Ranch
Camelot Ranch boasts a "combination of country, rustic Montana charm and upscale modern facilities," according to its website. Located in the greater Billings and Yellowstone Valley community in Montana, guests can turn your wedding weekend into a vacation they will never forget.
Nebraska—Falconwood Park
Falconwood Park is a 26-acre oasis in Bellevue, Nebraska. The sprawling lawns are the perfect setting for your outdoor wedding ceremony. Guests partake in a number of outdoor activities, including badminton, sand volleyball, fire pits, and horseshoes. The grounds also have a 6,000 square foot lodge that can be used for your wedding, as well.
Nevada—Cili at Bali Hai Golf Club
Las Vegas may be known as a place to elope, but there are plenty of palces to tie the knot right there on Las Vegas Strip. Cili at Bali Hai Golf Club feels miles away from the excitement of the casinos with its palm trees and tropical flowers all while being a short drive from McCarran International Airport and all other aspects of Las Vegas.
New Hampshire—Waterville Valley Resort
Nestled between 770,000 acres of White Mountain National Forest, Waterville Valley Resort is a magical setting for an outdoor wedding. Guests wiill enjoy 360-degree mountain views, as well as the comfort of a cozy resort.
New Jersey—Molly Pitcher Inn
The historic Molly Pitcher Inn is located in downtown Red Bank and sits right on the Navensick River, offering gorgeous waterfront views for your wedding. Ceremonies, cocktail hour, and the reception can be held on the outdoor promenade under a spacious tent. Guests can stay on-site at the Inn, as well, making this one of the most convenient venues.
New York—The Historic Barns of Nipmoose
Perched on a knoll overlooking the farmlands of the Hudson River Valley, the Historic Barns of Nipmoose is a serene and beautiful spot to host your wedding. Offering three charmingly rustic barns—the Scottish Barn, German Barn, and Corn Crib—you'll have a wide range of options for your festivities.
New Mexico—Casa Rondena Winery
Listed as one of The Wedding Spots' best venues in New Mexico, Casa Rodena Winery is as beautiful and unique as wedding venues come. Not only is this a fully operational winery, but the Albuquergue-based venue also boasts gorgeous architecture and stunning grounds.
North Carolina—The Carolina Inn
Located in Chapel Hill, this event screams southern charm. You can say your vows in a gorgeous courtyard designed to look like a traditional English garden.
North Dakota—Oxbow Country Club
Located in the scenic Fargo-Moorhead area, this venue is both convenient and stunning. A quick stroll through the grounds will be enough for you to know this is the place for you to tie the knot.
Ohio—The Inn at Honey Run
This woodland wedding venue is simply magical. This singularly unique boutique hotel sits among 56 acres of forest and meadows. Say your “I do’s” under the rustic open air pavilion, shielded from any rain or hot sunshine, while still enjoying the gorgeous views.
Oklahoma—Rose Briar Place
Rose Briar Place describes itself as “Oklahoma City's most beautiful, premier, all-inclusive wedding and reception venue” and it’s hard to argue with them. From the stunning outdoor garden to the glowing reviews, this venue is definitely worth a look.
Oregon—Navarra Gardens
The Navarra Gardens are located between Portland and the coast in the small town of Willamina. “With a small river, clearings surrounded by towering oak and fir trees, manicured lawns, five water features and five unique gardens, and a blanket of wildflowers in the summer, there are plenty of options for beautiful outdoor ceremonies,” Here Comes the Guide writes.
Pennsylvania—Talamore Country Club
This venue offers multiple spots for outdoor ceremonies that overlook the lakes, bridges, fountains, and garden on the grounds.
Rhode Island—Regatta Place
This venue is “steeped in Newport’s rich sailing tradition and surrounded by state-of-the-art and classic luxury yachts,” so, it’s perfect if you’re going for a nautical theme. Guests will enjoy the unbeatable views of Newport Harbor, as well.
South Carolina—Uptown Social
If you’re looking for a fun and casual yet chic spot for your vows in Charleston, South Carolina, look no further than Uptown Social. Right on Upper King Street, you won’t find a better location.
South Dakota—Clay Tile Barn
This countryside venue in Quinn, South Dakota is as charming and rustic as they come. Not only is the venue itself a gorgeous destination, guests can truly make a vacation out of your wedding weekend by visiting Badlands National Park and Mount Rushmore, which are just a short drive away.
Tennessee—The Farm at Cedar Springs
The Farm at Cedar Springs calls itself as “a one-of-a-kind venue” for weddings. This gorgeous, rustic venue offers “a private and secluded location with some of the best countryside views near Nashville.” What more could you want?
Texas—Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden
This non-traditional Austin venue promises good food and a good time. You and your guests can enjoy live music and live action cooking. This venue truly offers an unforgettable Texas experience.
Utah—Ruby’s Inn
Located just one mile from Bryce Canyon National Park, you and your guests will be able to soak in the beautiful natural surroundings as you say your vows. Wedding Spot says it best: “Deep blue skies, towering trees, fresh air, and beautiful landscapes surround you at Ruby’s Inn.”
Vermont—Lake Morey Resort
Lake Morey Resort has been hosting weddings for three generations, so, you know you'll be in good hands. The resort boats "spectacular lakeside and garden outdoor spaces" for your dream wedding.
Washington—The Club at Snoqualmie Ridge
With the Cascade Mountains as the backdrop for your ceremony, how could you possibly go wong choosing The Club at Snoqualme Ridge as your venue? The setting is simply unirvaled when it comes to photo ops.
West Virginia—Ace Adventure Resort
Ace Adventure Resort is perfect for adventurers among us. With acres of natural landscapes surrounding the resort, there are plenty of activities, including ziplining and white water rafting, to do before and after the vows. "Bordering the spectacular New River Gorge, this adventure center hosts stunning views and a prime backdrop for photos and ceremonies...it offers couples the opportunity to host a celebration packed with thrills," Wedding Wire writes.
Wisconsin—White’s Wildwood Retreat
Not far from Chippewa Falls WI, this venue is surrounded by forests and apple orchards. This venue is perfect for the creative couple, as White’s Wildwood Retreat describes itself as “a blank canvas” for you to decorate and celebrate as you please.
Wyoming—Diamond Cross Ranch
Diamond Cross Ranch is one of the last family-owned ranches in Jackson Hole, making it an even more special venue. Located at the base of the Grand Tetons, this venue has stunning views of the naturally beautiful Wyoming landscapes. The venue even hosted Kanye West’s record launch party back in 2018.
Photo: Getty