8 Magical U.S. Wedding Destinations Right In Your Backyard
Weddings are life’s version of a fairytale. Brides get the chance to look and feel like princesses — a childhood fantasy for many of us. It’s a magical and unforgettable day. Part of what brings this magic to life is the setting. A breathtaking venue sets the tone, allowing romance, love, and your inner princess to take center stage.
From enchanting castles and beautiful chateaus to dreamy forests and tranquil beaches, the U.S. has countless magical wedding destinations. They all offer something unique to make your day extra special. Here are eight magical venues where you can bring your wedding vision to life.
620 Loft & Garden, NYC
Considered one of the best wedding venues in the U.S., this venue embodies the beauty and big-city glamour of New York. Located in the heart of New York City, the rooftop offers a romantic backdrop of Fifth Avenue and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Brides can walk down the aisle in a garden surrounded by iconic New York architecture. The reception can be held in the indoor loft or the garden. As the sun goes down the city’s lights will begin to twinkle, adding sparkle to your celebration.
Rosecliff, Newport, Rhode Island
For brides looking for European grandeur, Rosecliff is an excellent choice. Recommended by Brides, the mansion was modeled after the Grand Trianon chateau in Versailles, making it a rich and opulent backdrop for a wedding.
It has been featured in several films including The Great Gatsby and 27 Dresses because of its Gilded Age lavishness. Float down the grand staircase, dance in the ballroom, and enjoy the cliffside ocean views as you stroll through the manicured gardens.
Joslyn Castle and Gardens, Omaha, Nebraska
Considered a fairy-tale castle wedding venue by Martha Stewart and recommended by “Brides,” Joslyn Castle looks like it came straight out of a storybook.
Influenced by Scottish architecture, the castle boasts carved wood, stained glass, chiseled stone, mosaic tiles, and wrought iron details. With expansive grounds and a large first floor, the venue offers the flexibility of indoor and outdoor weddings for larger or more intimate groups.
Waterfall Lodge, Ben Lomond, California
Named one of the top forest wedding venues by The Knot, Waterfall Lodge is perfect for an enchanting woodland wedding. Here you can hold the ceremony in the Redwood Cathedral or the Mother Tree or stroll nature paths surrounded by one-thousand-year-old redwood trees and take romantic photos at the outdoor staircase.
Make it a magical wedding weekend by having guests stay in the cabins on the property.
Kualoa Ranch, Kaneohe, Hawaii
For a tropical location with lush forests and beautiful beaches, Kualoa Ranch is worth considering. Recommended by The Knot, the reserve’s breathtaking views have been the backdrop of over 170 movies and TV shows.
Hold your ceremony and reception at the Paliku Gardens. You and your guest will have gorgeous views of the Ko’olau Mountains, Kaneohe Bay, and Mokoli’i Island.
Copper Creek Inn, Ashford, Washington
Look no further for a woodland wedding location that gives off Sleeping Beauty or Snow White vibes. Ranked fourth by Venue Report for magical forest wedding venues, Copper Creek Inn is a secluded property perfect for intimate affairs.
The forest amphitheater has a raised stage area surrounded by evergreens, rock steps, and cedar slab benches for guests. All that is missing for a true Disney princess experience are the woodland animals.
The Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina
Built in the French Renaissance style by George Vanderbilt, the Biltmore Estate is perfect for weddings. Highlighted by several publications including “Brides,” “Martha Stewart,” and “The Knot,” weddings here can range from grand and luxurious to intimate and rustic.
The property includes a winery, a conservatory, several gardens, and an inn, there are plenty of settings to choose from for the perfect magical wedding.
The Villa, East Bridgewater, Massachusetts
Ranked second for best wedding venue in the U.S. by TimeOut, The Villa has three unique spaces for creating wedding magic. No matter your vision, whether it’s contemporary, rustic, elegant, romantic, or upscale, you can bring it to life at The Villa. Dance the night away in an elaborate ballroom or under a tent draped in twinkling lights.