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Updated Oct 02, 2024Write Your Next Chapter at These 12 Historic Wedding Venues in DC
Say "I do" in a city full of pomp, circumstance and centuries of history.
Planning a wedding in our nation's capital means you have your pick of historic wedding venues in DC and the surrounding areas. From 19th-century mansions to politically significant locales to hotels with vintage glamor and five-star service, there are stunning and storied venues where you can say "I do" with the backdrop of our country's most important moments.
There are large and small venues alike to choose from within the city limits, and your guests will thank you for picking an easily accessible location. With three major airports, a train station and public transportation within the city, your guests should have no trouble getting into town. Museums and sights will keep them busy when they're not attending wedding festivities, and DC is the kind of wedding destination where guests might be tempted to tack on a few extra days to play tourist.
Want to narrow down your search to stunning historic venues? Search for venues on The Knot Vendor Marketplace and filter specifically for "historic." But, to kick off your search and help you book the perfect spot, here are 12 historic wedding venues in Washington, DC that should be at the top of your list. Also, don't forget to prepare a list of questions to ask the venues during your site tours.
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The Hay-Adams Hotel in Washington, DC
For a luxe and historic DC wedding, it doesn't get more iconic than the Hay-Adams Hotel. Built in the 1920s, this historic hotel overlooks the White House, but its aesthetic is anything but political. You get stunning views and nods to history but with a beautifully light and airy style. Host up to 200 guests at the Hay-Adams, and the Top of the Hay rooftop space has panoramic views of the city. If you're not ready to end the celebration, head to the Off the Record bar, a favorite of DC locals and tourists alike for generations.
Dumbarton House in Washington, DC
Dumbarton House was built in 1799, and today it serves as both a historic house museum and a wedding venue. There are manicured formal gardens, a grand home and both indoor and outdoor spaces to write your love story. Up to 200 loved ones can celebrate with you at Georgetown's stately Dumbarton House, while up to 75 can explore the museum at a time—adding an educational and entertaining element to your fete.
Daughters of the American Revolution in Washington, DC
The century-old headquarters of the Daughters of the American Revolution is one of the most grand historic wedding venues in DC to say "I do." Located just steps from the White House and the National Mall, this elegant building accommodates both intimate celebrations as well as sparkling ballroom affairs. The stunning marble facade is a classic DC backdrop, perfect for capturing a capital-inspired wedding day portrait that you'll treasure for decades.
National Cathedral School in Washington, DC
Located in the shadow of the towering National Cathedral, the National Cathedral School (NCS) is one of the most charming wedding venues in Northwest Washington, DC. This girls' school, whose history dates back to 1900, has indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions, including Grace Chapel. Surrounded by pristine gardens in the midst of the city, this lovely venue offers history, calm and beauty with the backdrop of one of Washington's most iconic buildings.
Patterson Mansion in Washington, DC
Just steps from Dupont Circle, Patterson Mansion has seen movers and shakers walk through its halls for over 100 years. Formerly owned by a DC socialite, the mansion once entertained politicians and celebrities alike. Today, it entertains the nearest and dearest friends and family of the couples who decide to celebrate their wedding day here. The dramatic ballroom hosts up to 200, while smaller celebrations take place in the library. Each of the spaces blends both the traditional and the modern, and there are 40 guest suites for those who need a place to stay during the weekend's festivities.
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Hill Center in Washington, DC
A Civil War-era Naval Hospital is now the Hill Center, which is an affordable DC historic wedding venue located in the heart of Capitol Hill. With lovely gardens and versatile indoor spaces that host small celebrations and large soirees, the Hill Center is customizable for a range of wedding styles. Host up to 250 of your closest friends and family at this venue, just blocks from the United States Capitol Building.
President Lincoln's Cottage in Washington, DC
There are few places more unexpected yet significant than President Lincoln's Cottage, an 1842 Gothic Revival mansion (not quite an actual cottage). President Lincoln used this home as a getaway to hold meetings, entertain and work on documents that would change the course of history, including the Emancipation Proclamation. Today, the historic wedding venue in Washington, DC hosts dream wedding days, with celebrations on the South Lawn growing to as large as 1,500 guests.
Florida House on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC
In 1891, a Victorian row home was built with an impressive view directly to the US Capitol. Over the next 80 years, the house would pass through several owners, including the last private owner of the Hope Diamond, before eventually falling into disrepair. In the 1970s, the home was purchased by a Florida couple, who turned it into the only state embassy in the District. Today, Florida House has one of the best addresses in the city, and couples looking to host an intimate wedding can say their vows with the Supreme Court and Capitol Building just steps away.
The Mayflower Hotel in Washington, DC
The Mayflower Hotel is a classic 1920s hotel that brings nostalgic glamor to our nation's capital. "Married at The Mayflower" sounds like a storybook start for couples looking for a timeless, unforgettable celebration. With grand ballrooms, sparkling chandeliers and an impressive marble lobby, this is where you bring your closest friends and family for a city soiree that combines a lively Dupont location with classic wedding day style.
Old Ebbitt Grill in Washington, DC
Few American restaurants can boast a history that goes back to the mid-19th century, but Old Ebbitt Grill has its roots in a saloon established in 1856. It's now a favorite downtown restaurant of both tourists and locals and its seafood towers are a DC mainstay. There are several event spaces available within the restaurant, including the Atrium and the Cabinet Room, though the Rooftop Terrace is one of the most impressive historic wedding venues in DC. From high above the city, you'll get wedding day views all the way from the National Cathedral to the Pentagon.
Woodrow Wilson House in Washington, DC
The Woodrow Wilson House is located in Kalorama, one of the most lush and historic neighborhoods in Washington, DC. Just off Embassy Row, these sprawling grounds were home to President Woodrow Wilson and his wife, Edith, after he left the White House. The home has been restored to its 1920s grandeur and now serves as both a Presidential Library and an events space. There are terraced gardens and rooms within the architecturally significant house, including the library, drawing room and dining room, that can be used to host historic soirees of up to 200 guests.
1789 Restaurant in Washington, DC
In the 1960s, an alumnus of Georgetown University purchased two mid-19th century rowhomes in Georgetown to create a duo of restaurants—fine dining upstairs named for 1789, the year Georgetown University was founded, and The Tombs in the basement, a beer and burger pub. Today, 1789 is a beautiful example of Federal architecture and a classic restaurant that hosts small weddings of up to 50 seated for dinner. There are several rooms, each with its own timeless style and color palette.
