14 Wonderful Winter Wedding Venues Across the US
Looking for winter wedding venues to host your nuptials? While the fall and summer are the most popular times of the year to get married, per our Real Weddings Study, there's no denying the magic that can unfold when you have a winter wedding. There's just something about saying "I do" around the holiday season or amidst a snowy backdrop that's undoubtedly romantic. In fact, some of the best wedding venues are made for the winter, and they are becoming increasingly popular thanks to the surge in social media shares—the hashtag #winterweddingvenue has more than 1,000 posts!
For some, it simply makes sense to have a winter wedding, whether it's the time of year in which they met or started dating, or because of the timeframe in which they hope to tie the knot. For example, if you got engaged in the fall or winter and hope to be married around a year out from your engagement, wintertime just makes sense. Plus, there are all types of wedding venues to consider, from industrial and modern venues to rustic and cozy.
As Sarah Chianese, owner of Mangia and Enjoy! points out, winter can stir up some comfortable feelings of coziness and togetherness—i.e. snuggling up to fires and enjoying cold-weather sports and games. "Some couples may have met on a ski slope or ice skating rink while walking their dogs on a wintry path in the park or at the local cafe with storefronts brimming with holiday lights," she adds.
You can find winter wedding venues near you (as well as your other vendors!) on The Knot Vendor Marketplace. Here are the winter wedding venues experts say are worth checking out in every region of the US.
The Northeast
501 Union in Brooklyn, New York
This indoor wedding venue is known for its fashionable and chic decor, which blends vintage architecture with a contemporary, up-scale style, making it an excellent choice for couples seeking a modern speakeasy aesthetic. "The ceremony space boasts gorgeous natural light, which is a huge plus for photos, and its monochromatic color palette appeals to those with a minimalist taste," says Megan Breukelman, owner of Megan & Kenneth. She recommends 501 Union for those looking to have a city wedding in a versatile space that's entirely indoors—to keep all the guests warm and cozy.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 144 for seated ceremony, up to 160 for seated reception, up to 250 for floating reception
The Foundry in Long Island City, New York
If you're looking for a rustic, indoor wedding venue for your winter wedding, look no further than The Foundry. Rich in history, this wedding venue was originally used to manufacture steel varnishes, which makes sense as to why it's located in the once-industrial locale of Long Island City. "The interiors are stunning, ensuring that your wedding photos will turn out beautifully," says Breukelman. "With plenty of room and ample natural light, it's a great choice for chilly days—plus, you'll get tons of light for your wedding portraits and have varying aesthetic options for your celebration."
- Guest Capacity: Up to 125 for a seated indoor reception, up to 180 for floating reception
Windham Manor in Windham, New York
If cityscapes are not your thing, and you're instead seeking a more rural backdrop for your stunning winter wedding, Windham Manor, located in New York's Hudson Valley, may be the right venue for you. This winter wedding venue is booked out years in advance—and once you visit you'll understand why. "Their reception space is the most beautifully built, majestic, modernity built barns you will find in the entire area and can comfortably accommodate up to 250-300 people, with full seating available in-house," says Chianese. "Located a mere 5 miles from Windham Mountain Ski Area, it is super convenient for you or your guests who love skiing, snowboarding, or any other activities offered at Windham Mountain." Another fun perk about this venue is that they have a mansion on-property that can sleep up to 28 adults—plus additional accommodations for young children or small adults.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 300 for an indoor reception, and more with additional tenting
Oheka Castle in Huntington, New York
This historic mansion located on Long island is known as America's grandest castle, so it's no surprise Oheka Castle is a popular choice among those looking to have a winter wonderland-themed wedding. Built in the early 20th century, this French-style château was once the second-largest private residence in the U.S. It spans over 400 acres and operates as a luxury hotel, so guests can stay on the premises in elegant rooms and suites with historic charm. "Couples we have worked with over the years who chose this venue for a winter wedding were treated to idyllic snow-covered grounds and danced the night away with the glow of chandeliers and candlelight," says Nudo. "Couples will have the venue all to themselves and the exemplary service of castle staff exclusively."
- Guest Capacity: 350 guests for a sit-down wedding
The Park Savoy Estate in Florham Park, New Jersey
Known for its timeless charm and picturesque surroundings, this grand mansion provides a dreamy backdrop for a winter wedding. "The Park Savoy Estate is the quintessential classic wedding venue with its French-inspired architecture, crystal chandeliers, black and white checkered marble floors, and ornate woodwork," says Nudo. "Couples who we have worked with that hosted winter weddings at the Park Savoy Estate were able to really embrace the winter aspect of their wedding and incorporate poinsettia, pinecones and holly into the decor."
- Guest Capacity: Up to 300 guests
Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
If you and your soon-to-be spouse are seeking a wedding venue that capitalizes on everything that the winter season has to offer, you will find all of that and more at the Omni Mount Washington in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. As you drive up to the giant estate that is this century-old hotel property, you will feel like royalty, as will your guests. Built in 1902 by industrialist Joseph Stickney and designed by architect Charles Alling Gifford, the property still boasts a Spanish Renaissance Revival style with influences from the surrounding White Mountains in the backdrop. The resort offers a variety of accommodation options, including guest rooms, suites and condominiums, with each room showcasing views of the mountains or the hotel's beautiful surroundings. There are several dining options at the resort, including steakhouse Stickneys and new-American restaurant 1902. Guests can relax in outdoor pools and jacuzzis while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding mountains, visit the gorgeous spa for a massage, facial or use of the facilities. There are several banquet rooms to hold your wedding—plus outdoor options depending on the weather and time of year. It is also just two minutes away from the popular Bretton Woods Ski Resort, which you can visit by shuttle directly from the hotel.
- Guest Capacity: 300+
The Midwest
Zingerman's Cornman Farms in Ann Arbor, Michigan
If you're on the hunt for an idyllic and intimate wedding venue in Michigan, look no further than this modern farmhouse, Zingerman's Cornman Farms in Ann Arbor, Michigan, which sits on a historic, 27-acre stretch of land. It is an event venue, kitchen and picturesque estate just minutes from downtown Ann Arbor that has been hosting weddings for almost 12 seasons. The property, however, was built in the early nineteenth century and emits an essence of nostalgia with its restored barn and picturesque white farmhouse—clad with a wraparound porch and rocking chairs.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 75 guests
Rookery Building in Chicago, Illinois
This Chicago landmark is known for its historic and architectural significance dating back to 1888, including the Burnham Library, which is located right inside the property. Upon its inception, it stood as one of the tallest buildings in the world, providing a blueprint for many of the large skyscrapers we know and love today. For winter weddings, the Rookery Building has everything—ornate detailing, large windows and a classic design. Depending on the timing of your winter wedding, The Rookery may feature festive holiday decorations, adding an extra layer of warmth and charm to the venue.
- Guest Capacity: 200 guests for a seated reception with DJ, 175 for a seated reception with band
The Estate at New Albany in New Albany, Ohio
Nestled in the heart of New Albany Ohio and situated on five lush wooded acres of land, The Estate offers a stunning wedding venue for any time of year. Their Grand Foyer features a 28-foot fireplace, glittering chandeliers, an expansive hall and several surrounding ceremony spots and large windows that allow you to look out over the snow in the wintertime. "The venue also offers several wonderful in-house services including a DJ, floral team, catering, and bar," says MacLeod. "Couples can take outdoor photos on the patio that has bistro lights year-round."
- Guest Capacity: Up to 350 guests
The South
The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
This wedding venue, which has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, makes for a show-stopping venue year-round, but the winter months are especially notable. "Known as America's resort, The Greenbrier has both indoor and outdoor activities such as ice-skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, heated indoor pool for swimming, bowling alley, private casino, cozy fireplaces and seasonal dining," says Nudo. "Guests can stay on property without running the risk of inclement weather being an issue, everything is conveniently located without travel being required. While the outdoor spaces may be covered in snow, the resort's well-maintained gardens and grounds offer a serene and enchanting backdrop for winter ceremonies and photographs.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 600
The Treasury on the Plaza in St. Augustine, Florida
If you're looking to get away from the snow and cold for your winter wedding, you'll find warmth and sunshine in St. Augustine, Florida at The Treasury on the Plaza, a venue housed in what was once a bank back in the 1920s. Its classic Beaux-Arts design serves as an elegant atmosphere for weddings, with high ceilings and crystal chandeliers. "One of the most popular features of the venue is the Vault Bar, the main focal point of the Grand Ballroom which has been converted into a bar that serves up delicious cocktails during the wedding reception," says Marissa MacLeod, Director of Marketing for the venue. Florida's annual festival of lights display, The Nights of Lights festival, is held from late November to the end of January during which the town is covered in a string of white lights—this makes for a gorgeous setting for guests to enjoy and explore.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 200 guests
The West
The Madeline Auberge in Telluride, Colorado
This magical wedding venue situated in one of the most breathtaking mountainscapes you've ever seen, offers a winter-wonderland setting. It's most ideal for couples who love to ski, as it's directly adjacent to Telluride Mountain and offers on-site ski concierge and ski butlers for your wedding party. Even non-skiers can enjoy the cold-weather season, as The Madeline Auberge also has its own full-size skating rink. "As you look down from your room terrace, you'll see the twinkling lights, glowing ice skating rink, quaint winter village decor, snow-capped Rocky Mountains, outdoor heated pool fire pits and hot tubs," says Chianese. "Heading from the resort into the quaint town of Telluride, there is a unique transport system where you hop into cozy little encapsulated chair lifts to take you to and fro, so once you valet your car, there's no need to jump back in until you regrettably check-out of the hotel."
- Guest Capacity: Up to a 400-person cocktail reception and a comfortable fit for approximately 250 seated dinner receptions
Timberline Lodge in Mt. Hood in Oregon
Located on the slides of Mount Hood, this historic and picturesque venue makes for a gorgeous winter-themed wedding. With Timberline Lodge's rustic charm, hand-crafted details and, of course, its mountain-soaked backdrop, it offers unmatched photography opportunities such as panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and snow-covered landscapes. "There are several location options, but my favorite is Silcox Hut which accommodates approximately 55 guests," says Nora Sheils, owner of Bridal Bliss. "Your guests can stay at the lodge, and for the wedding festivities are taken up to the hut via snowcats and a small group of guests can stay at the hut in bunk rooms and then take the snowcats back or even ski down the next morning—that is, of course, after your private chef prepares your breakfast." She recommends booking this unforgettable wedding venue ASAP, since it's usually booked solid for up to a year.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 200 people
Bernardus Lodge and Spa in Carmel Valley, California
This luxury resort in California's Carmel Valley serves as an incredible setting for a winter wedding. "Bernardus Lodge is a luxury 5-star property that consistently is awarded best in the West and it is a beautiful setting for a wedding any time of the year," says Sheils. "Their gorgeous European-style rose garden is a perfect setting year round for a ceremony (and reception)." The Bernardus Lodge offers some luxe accommodations, including spa facilities, surrounding vineyards and the ability to offer both indoor and outside accommodations—there are spaces on the property that could be tented even in the winter! For those looking to have a vineyard-hopping experience for their wedding guests, this is the right venue to call homebase.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 250 depending on the spot
The Benefits of a Winter Wedding
The main pro to booking a winter wedding, aside from the couple's preference to enjoy the magical, snow-ridden time of the year, is the cost, Chianese points out. "Many wedding professionals in climates that experience actual winter will offer lower rates during off-season months—December through the end of February," she says. "The portion of your wedding budget you may save on the venue or other wedding professional fees is now available so you can enjoy instilling winter wonderland elements to achieve the dream-like wedding (and plenty of heat sources) you desire."
Costs for your guests may also be lower during the winter season, depending on where they're traveling from—and to. "Vacation rentals and hotel blocks for your guests may be at better rates than in the Spring through Fall months unless they stay in a ski resort town," Chianese says.
The winter season also gives way to a gorgeous landscape if you're looking to cash in on the whole wintery wonderland concept. "Especially weddings around the Christmas holiday or New Year Eve, couples can expect venues to be meticulously and festively decorated, leaving very little decor or design work to be added by the couple," says Kelley Nudo, Client Relations and Operations Director at Momental Designs. "Some of the most gorgeous weddings our team has designed for took place in the winter months, each having elements that departed from the typical flowery outdoor weddings that one would expect to see in the spring or summer."
More Winter Wedding Ideas
Looking for more inspo? Check out these recommendations from our editors for couples planning a winter wedding.
- Winter Wedding Colors and How to Use Them
- Winter Wedding Invitations
- Cozy Winter Wedding Save-the-Dates
- Winter Wedding Ideas
Bonus: Browse The Knot Vendor Marketplace for even more winter venues and vendors including wedding photographers, florists, cake designers and more!