16 of the Coolest US Wedding Venues for 2016 and Beyond
Melissa Paniagua
Melissa Paniagua
Melissa Paniagua is a freelance writer with a background in weddings and styling and an appreciation for all things innovative, artful and well-designed. She believes that everyday moments are a cause for celebration and loves green juice and coffee in equal measure. Follow her daily adventures on Instagram.
Once you’re engaged, the real wedding planning doesn’t start until you’ve set a date at that *dream* venue of yours. The location determines your overall vibe — be it beachy-boho, barnyard-rustic or city-minimalist — and will set the scene for your epic celebration of love. The wedding venues below are some of the coolest in the good ol’ US of A and can work for whatever wedding theme you’re going for. Think: rustic woodland treehouse nuptials, boho DIY dessert wedding or industrial-chic warehouse affair. Scroll on to see the picks below, and get ready to start planning your dress, signature cocktails and that perfect color palette around these gorgeous locations.
Korakia Pensione
This super cute boutique hotel is nestled in the San Jacinto mountains in the heart of Palm Springs, CA. You and your guests will be able to enjoy the perfect desert-like weather, gorgeous palm trees and a quaint setting that will add a certain je ne sais quoi to your wedding photos. (via Erin J. Saldana Photography / Ruffled Blog)Blackberry Farm
This romantic and intimate spot is perfect for the couple who wants to escape the modern-day frenzy and slip into a nature-loving state of mind. With more than 9,000 acres in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains, this location will awe you and your guests. (via Tec Petaja Photography / Blackberry Farm)Rimrock Ranch Cabins
This Pioneertown, CA venue — which has housed stars and directors for dozens of cowboy movies since 1947 — is ideal for a non-traditional wedding. Rock a sequin gown, some cool-girl shades and decorate with succulent centerpieces for an affair to remember. (via Studio Vérité Photography)Treehouse Point
Conveniently located just 30 minutes away from Seattle, but also totally tucked away in a forest brimming with all the beauty of nature you can imagine, this is a very unique location to tie the knot. Not only will the photos be one-of-a-kind, but the experience for you and your guests will be sky high. (via Jagger Photography / Green Wedding Shoes)Big Daddy’s Antiques
If your home is filled with the vintage pieces you collected while wandering through flea markets in search of one-of-a-kind treasures, then this venue is for you. As soon as you step into any Big Daddy’s Antiques location — whether you’re in LA, SF, Houston, Aspen or Seattle — you will fall in love with the industrial interior of the venue and their curated decor. (via Amy and Stuart / Green Wedding Shoes)Barr Mansion
From the deep green magnolias to their delightful signature pecan tree and summer veggie gardens, this Austin, TX venue is truly perfect for all seasons. Plus, it has lots of options on the property for you to incorporate as much (or as little!) outdoors as you and your sweetie desire. (via Jake Holt Photography / Barr Mansion)Malibu Rocky Oaks
How about getting married in the hills of Malibu? This private vineyard with an amazing 360-degree view of the Santa Monica Mountains is one of the most amazing spots to say “I do” in California. You and your new hubbie will feel like you’re up in the clouds with all of your loved ones. (via Chrisman Studios)New York Public Library
It should come as no surprise that the New York Public Library made our list of coolest venues in the US. With its classic architecture and timeless charm, it’s the kind of space couples dream about for their “I Do’s.” Whether you’re tying the knot in NYC or thinking of traveling for a destination wedding, this space won’t disappoint! (via Dave Robbins Photography / Smashing the Glass)Camp Wandawega
There’s nothing more special than a magical lake, perfect sunsets and lots and lots of history. If this sounds like something you and your love have been dreaming of for your nature-filled nuptials, then this rad location is just what you need. Just don’t forget the campfire and s’mores! (via Jaclyn Simpson Photography / Camp Wandawega)Thorncrown Chapel
This beautiful cathedral in the woods of Arkansas is known to be one of the most romantic and awe-inspiring places on earth. The tall glass chapel and metal beams inside give off a modern feel for the unconventional bride. (via Hudson Photography / Style Me Pretty)Haiku Mill
This old Hawaiian sugar plantation is filled with tropical elegance and lots of history. The lush, vine-covered ruins are super romantic and make for incredible photos for you two and your wedding party. While you tie the knot, your guests will be totally mesmerized by the backdrop of fragrant jasmine and gardenia blossoms at the ceremony site. (via Bryce Covey Photography / Style Me Pretty)Carousel at Lighthouse Point Park
Between the beautiful scenery of the New Haven Harbor and the Long Island Sound, it’s crystal clear that this historic venue is a great choice for any beaming bride. You could go with a carnival theme or just keep it nautical-chic. Either way, this beachside venue will be the perfect start for your life together. (via Danya Jimenez Photography)Sodo Park
With its blend of industrial style and modern elegance, there’s no question that this totally hip venue is a must on any minimalist bride’s list. It’s located in the heart of Seattle’s historic SoDo district and features exposed beams and reclaimed lighting fixtures that will make an amazing setting for your big day. (via O’Malley Photographers / Finch and Thistle Events Design)Museum of Contemporary Art
This modern yet totally light, airy and very romantic venue will give you the chance to wander from room to room as you gaze at beautiful art pieces on your big day. The dramatic views of the city of Chicago and Lake Michigan will also leave a lasting memory. If you are looking for a totally modern-chic city affair, look no further. (via Simply Jessie Photography / Museum of Contemporary Art)San Sophia Overlook
This breathtaking wedding location in Telluride, CO is surrounded by mountain peaks and towering spruce trees. Your guests will love taking the gondola ride overlooking this stunning landscape. If you want to go all out, you could even go for a total winter wonderland wedding — just be sure to includes lots and lots of blankets. (via Alpine Wedding Photography / San Sophia Overlook)Canyonlands National Park
The glamping wedding trend is here to stay. Take it to Utah with a wedding at the crazy-cool Canyonlands National Park. You’ll cherish the breathtaking views from this 40-acre spot in wedding photos for years to come. Gather your closest friends for a day (or night under the stars!) to remember. (via Amanda Summerlin Photography)Melissa Paniagua
Melissa Paniagua is a freelance writer with a background in weddings and styling and an appreciation for all things innovative, artful and well-designed. She believes that everyday moments are a cause for celebration and loves green juice and coffee in equal measure. Follow her daily adventures on Instagram.