The bride wore an elegant Galia Lahav wedding dress to swap vows with Jake Bongiovi in Tuscany.
Updated Oct 02, 2024The 22 Best Philadelphia Wedding Venues
Say "I do" in the birthplace of America.
You may know Philadelphia for its historic landmarks, such as Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Liberty Bell, Elfreth's Alley and the Betsey Ross House. What you may not know is that Pennsylvania's largest city is also a city of neighborhoods, including notable Rittenhouse Square, trendy Fishtown and Northern Liberties, center-of-it-all Center City, charming Manayunk, classic Old City and stalwart South Philly. Each neighborhood has its own personality—and its own selection of one-of-a-kind Philadelphia wedding venues for every style and size.
Philadelphia is a four-seasons city, meaning your outdoor wedding will be reliant on warmer months (late spring and early fall), and your winter wedding will have to take place indoors. Don't fret, though, because this lively, bustling city offers amazing venue options for weddings year-round. Here, you can exchange vows at an architecturally stunning event space, with American landmarks—adding to the charm of your big day—at your disposal.
In this guide, we've laid out 20 of our favorite venues in and around Philadelphia so you can find the perfect venue for your perfect wedding. From historic venues to grand ballrooms to on-the-water outdoor spaces, there's something for everyone in this East Coast city. And if you're looking for even more Philadelphia wedding venues, visit The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find your dream space.
Cescaphe Weddings in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cescaphe Weddings is a popular Philadelphia wedding brand operating seven unique locations throughout the city—and each is absolutely breathtaking. The venues include Cescaphe Ballroom, Cescaphe's flagship location in Northern Liberties; Vie, Cescaphe's largest location (it can hold up to 600 guests) located just beyond City Hall in Center City; Tendenza, another Northern Liberties reception space inspired by industrial New York City lofts; Old City's Down Town Club overlooking Independence Hall; the gorgeous Water Works, with indoor-outdoor spaces adjacent to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Schuylkill River; the Lucy located on Philadelphia's Avenue of the Arts; and Franklin's View located on Franklin Square, a short distance from the Liberty Bell.
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The Arts Ballroom in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Arts Ballroom is an all-inclusive ceremony and reception venue located in Center City, along Philly's Avenue of the Arts. The 10,000-square-foot space is comprised of a Grand Ballroom, a Sylvania Room and a Lounge & Mezzanine. Throughout the setting, you'll find a stately granite staircase, hardwood floors, mahogany doors, crystal chandeliers, mirrors, a marble fireplace, a marble bar and Juliet balconies. Accommodations at the Arts Ballroom are as wonderful as the site itself; inclusive of a top-shelf open bar, an event specialist, a bridal attendant, a maitre d', a custom wedding cake, your choice of linens and napkins, custom lighting and more, the offering will make planning your special day a lot less stressful.
Cairnwood Estate in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania
Just outside Northeast Philadelphia is Bryn Athyn's palatial Cairnwood Estate, built in 1895 for American industrialist John Pitcairn. The estate's Beaux Arts style was influenced by classical Greek and Roman architecture and French Renaissance ideas. On your wedding day at Cairnwood, you'll have access to the 26,000-square-foot estate and its fountain garden, covered veranda and terrace as well as six historic rooms—the Great Hall, Living Room, Library, Music Room, Dining Room and Billiard Room. You can also celebrate late into the evening, with the option to extend your five-hour reception package until midnight. Another perk? With no minimum guest count requirement, Cairnwood can also be the perfect location for an intimate wedding.
The Philadelphia Cricket Club in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Philadelphia Cricket Club is the oldest country club in the United States, and although it's located in the city, you wouldn't know it from your surroundings. With such renown, you can only expect the very best at a Cricket Club wedding. Depending on the season, your cocktail hour will take place in one of two stellar locations: on nicer evenings, under the stars on a red brick patio overlooking the Cricket Club's Great Lawn, or, when it's cooler, inside two restored 100-year-old dining rooms from the original clubhouse. No matter the weather, your reception will take place in the historic Ballroom, enhanced by French doors, floor-to-ceiling windows, white columns and an arched ceiling.
Downingtown Country Club in Downingtown, Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania's Chester County, you'll find Downingtown Country Club, an extraordinary Philadelphia-area golf course and wedding venue. Your outdoor ceremony will take place under the country club's grand pergola, with lush fairways (and a waterfall!) as your backdrop. Following your vows, host your cocktail hour in the foyer or the covered patio. Another special treat at Downingtown Country Club is the Chocolate Indulgence Room, described by the venue as "a private dessert room created exclusively for you and your guests, featuring a unique display of signature desserts." Additionally—and on brand—your event at the country club also includes a round of golf for you and your new spouse.
HollyHedge Estate in New Hope, Pennsylvania
New Hope is an eclectic Bucks County town located an hour north of Philadelphia, and it's the home of the cherished HollyHedge Estate. The family-run 18th century country home and estate has been servicing couples for 25 years, and the staff is eager to work with your budget to bring your big day vision to life. With beautiful gardens and grounds, historic fieldstone buildings, a traditional stone barn, and a reception facility for up to 200 guests, the 21-acre property can accommodate both indoor and outdoor weddings. Plus, you can take advantage of 15 on-site guests rooms at the Inn at HollyHedge.
Knowlton Mansion in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Knowlton Mansion is a Frank Furness-designed Victorian mansion in Philly's Fox Chase neighborhood. Built in 1881 and lovingly restored by Conroy Catering in 1999, the estate features cocktail terraces, a wedding ceremony pergola, stables and 13 acres of perennial gardens. Knowlton Mansion's contemporary ballroom has impressive vaulted ceilings, glass skylights, carved woodwork and a secret wine cellar, the perfect setting for your reception, and an ideal setup for dinner stations and dancing. You have food and beverage options here, too, because you get to select a Knowlton Gold, Silver or Bronze package for your special event. (Highlights of Knowlton Gold include a top-shelf open bar and a signature cocktail.)
Terrain at Styer's in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania
Terrain at Styer's is a Philadelphia-area event venue (it's located in Glen Mills) and the flagship Terrain Events location. Situated on the landmark J. Franklin Styer's nursery, the horticultural setting encompasses five acres and is perfect for bespoke botanical celebrations of up to 110 people. Your wedding ceremony will take place in the Gardens, an outdoor space that features an Indian wedding temple, oak trees and festival lights. You'll also have access to the adjoining Hot House, a temperature-controlled room included in all wedding packages that can also be used as a ceremony space or as an extension of your wedding reception. Speaking of, the Garden Shed reception space is a rustic, refurbished room enhanced by barnwood floors, twinkling lights, farmhouse tables and "seasonally styled" bookshelves.
Terrain Gardens in Devon, Pennsylvania
You guessed it: Terrain Gardens is another amazing—and equally lush—Terrain Events venue. Located in Devon, Pennsylvania, Terrain Gardens can accommodate 140 guests for seated events and 200 for standing receptions. There's a similar rustic charm shared between Terrain at Styers and Terrain Gardens, but one thing that makes this event space so special is the Ceremony Garden. Built in 2019, the outdoor space is decorated with wisteria trees, reclaimed mantles and a handmade wirework pavilion. Highlights of the Reception Room included barnwood floors, farmhouse tables, string lights, high ceilings with floating installations, and a large skylight.
The Moshulu in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
One of the most famous and historic Philadelphia wedding venues is also one of its most unique. The Moshulu is the world's oldest and largest floating square-rigged vessel, and has not only sailed around the world, but has appeared in such films as The Godfather Part II and Rocky. The five-deck vessel offers seven private dining rooms, including two tented areas and an outdoor bar. Twinkle lights give the ship a romantic feel, and even inside, natural light is abundant. While many boat wedding venues are quite small, The Moshulu has space for up to 200 guests. All-inclusive packages are avilable, including wedding cakes, rentals and more.
Manayunk Brewing Company in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philly's Manayunk neighborhood is home to Manayunk Brewing Company. The greatness of Manayunk can be summed up by the fact that it's in the city, along the Schuylkill River, but it has some of the pleasantries of a suburban area—less traffic, less noise and more grass. Manayunk Brewing Company is a riverfront location with lovely outdoor decks overlooking the water and the River Club, an event venue located in the brewery's loft space. Suited for up to 175 guests for a sit-down or buffet-style wedding (and more for cocktail-style events), Manayunk Brewing Company's River Club is an awesome city location—away from much of the hustle and bustle.
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Finley Catering in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Finley Catering is the mastermind behind Union Trust, Ballroom at the Ben, and the Crystal Tea Room, three distinct but much-loved Philadelphia wedding venues. Union Trust is home to four magnificent indoor event spaces, accommodating up to 190 guests. Striking Union Trust features include a balcony, architectural walls and, most impressive, 65-foot engraved ceilings. The Ballroom at the Ben is also opulent, a regal ballroom with a mezzanine overlooking the reception area. Finally, the Crystal Tea Room is located in Philly's historic Wanamaker building near City Hall. Inside the Crystal Tea Room is a fabulous atrium (it has a water fountain and soaring ceilings) and a grand ballroom embellished with crystal chandeliers, columns and, if you choose, luxurious drapery.
The Kimmel Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Kimmel Center is a famous Philadelphia performing arts venue on the Avenue of the Arts in Center City. It's also an outstanding, one-of-a-kind wedding and event venue run by Garces Events, a caterer led by James Beard award-winning Iron Chef Jose Garces. The Kimmel Center's Hamilton Garden, a glass rooftop atrium atop the Center, will be the setting for your most special event. The unparalleled space seats 200 guests and features a 6,200-square-foot hardwood maple floor and LED lighting. In addition to being an exceptional venue, the Kimmel Center staff just gets it. As the Center's website states, "A wedding is a performance, and the two of you are both the producers and lead actors."
Awbury Arboretum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Here's why you'll love Awbury Arboretum in Philadelphia's Germantown neighborhood: The 55-acre arboretum is home to a Victorian mansion—the Francis Cope House—and Portico, an enchanting wedding venue. The grounds at Awbury Arboretum include botanical gardens, specimen trees, meadows, wetlands, birds, native wildflowers and grasses and a secret garden. On-site, the Francis Cope House features floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in natural light and a picturesque wrap-around porch. Your tented outdoor wedding at Awbury Arboretum can include up to 175 friends and family members. And with the arboretum's many vistas, your wedding party and guests will surely enjoy this stellar setting.
The Fairmount Park Horticulture Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
If you know Philly, you know Fairmount Park. Within the expansive park is the Fairmount Park Horticulture Center, an exhibition hall and greenhouse—and a truly unique wedding destination. The Horticulture Center has history: Built in 1979, it sits on the former site of an 1876 Centennial Exposition building. It's also home to indoor and outdoor gathering areas, gardens, a reflecting pool and so much greenery. What's more, the venue works with Constellation, a caterer committed to the guest experience and spectacular special events. Paired together, the pretty venue and service-oriented caterer will enable you to bring to life the kind of wedding day you can only dream of.
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Wed among the art galleries at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, referred to as PAFA by many. Your PAFA wedding can take place inside the Victorian Gothic Historic Landmark Building (the oldest art museum and art academy in the country), the modern Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building or outside on Lenfest Plaza. PAFA's convenient location down the road from City Hall and many Center City hotels makes it a great option because your guests can take advantage of all the city has to offer. If you're an art enthusiast, you'll be happy to hear that your rental fee here helps fulfill PAFA's mission of "educating tomorrow's artists."
National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
We couldn't list Philadelphia wedding venues without mentioning the National Constitution Center. The Museum of We the People, as it calls itself, is a private, nonprofit organization visited by people worldwide to learn more about the U.S. Constitution. The Center is also a short walk from Independence Hall, where the Constitution was signed, so your wedding day here will be a truly historic experience. Partnering with Brûlée Catering, the venue has two ceremony spaces—the Grand Hall Lobby and the Rooftop Terrace—and one reception space, the Grand Hall Overlook. The Center offers couples an all-inclusive package, featuring an open bar, a champagne toast, standard rentals, linens, a wedding cake, an attendant, a wedding suite for up to 10 guests, and experienced staff.
The College of Physicians in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The College of Physicians of Philadelphia is not what it sounds like because it's not an academic organization at all. Instead, it's a "place for medical professionals and the general public to learn about medicine as both a science and an art," and it is home to the oldest medical society in America (founded in 1787 by a group of—you guessed it—physicians). The National Historic Landmark doubles as a full-service event venue, an old-world one at that, with weddings executed by Catering By Design. You, your spouse-to-be and your guests will delight in the New Beaux Arts-style building, from the Marble Rotunda and grand staircase present upon entry to the second floor's Mitchell Hall, complete with many historic portraits and a 30-foot rococo ceiling.
Glen Foerd on the Delaware in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Glen Foerd on the Delaware is a picturesque waterfront venue along the Delaware River and just 20 minutes from downtown Philly. There's plenty to enjoy on the 18-acre estate, including the historic mansion, lush pathways and gardens, delightful riverfront views, a stone terrace, and the Riverside Pavilion—a fully customizable event space for your big day during warmer seasons. In the winter, your wedding will take place inside the mansion. But you won't be missing out because the interior is next-level: There's an art gallery, sunlit porches, an elegant dining room, a basement rathskeller (fashioned after a German beer hall), and a bridal suite. Indoors and in the pavilion, Glen Foerd is fantastic.
Penn Oaks Golf Club in West Chester, Pennsylvania
Golf clubs are popular wedding venues, and for good reason. They're not only scenic, but often offer all-inclusive packages that make wedding planning simple and stress-free. At the Penn Oaks Golf Club in West Chester, you'll find all this and more. From the beautiful gazebo for ceremonies to the tented reception space, your guests will be wowed by this venue's beauty and attention to detail. Penn Oaks also wins raves from couples (it's won numerous The Knot Best of Weddings awards and is even in the Hall of Fame!). Says one recent bride: "I simply cannot say enough good things about the Penn Oaks Golf Club wedding venue. The entire staff made the whole event flawless! From the first day my fiancé and I met with them, they made us feel like family."
Pen Ryn Estate in Bensalem, Pennsylvania
Pen Ryn Estate is yet another wonderful waterfront wedding venue, but this estate is located just outside city limits, in Bucks County. Occupying 100 acres along the Delaware River, the historic property has much to offer couples. For starters, the Pen Ryn Mansion's facade is photogenic AF, and its interiors make for an unforgettable cocktail hour or intimate wedding. Then, there's the aptly named River's Edge Garden Pavilion, a 10,000-square-foot tented complex boasting dreamy water views you and your guests won't get enough of. Finally, Pen Ryn is also home to the Belle Voir Manor, embellished with seemingly royal architecture and featuring a grand ballroom illuminated by crystal chandeliers.
Normandy Farm Hotel & Conference Center in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania
Closing out our list of Philadelphia wedding venues is Normandy Farm Hotel and Conference Center—and it's located less than an hour from the city in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. Normandy Farm is an ideal destination for rural, rustic weddings not far from urban life. And whether you're local to the area or traveling for a destination wedding, the farm has the amenities for a full-on wedding weekend: guest rooms and suites, three ceremony and reception spaces, after-party accommodations in "the farmer's daughter" bar, the option for a next-day brunch, and much to take advantage of in Montgomery County. Normandy Farm is the Philadelphia area's much adored farm-chic wedding venue.
