Top Wedding Venues In New England
Selecting a wedding venue in New England is not an easy task! There are endless options across the region—from historic estates to waterfront properties—that can make it difficult to land the perfect one. Selecting a venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your big day.
As a seasoned wedding planner, here are my recommendations and advice for selecting the perfect New England wedding venue and my top venue recommendations from personal experience.
How to Select Your Wedding Venue
Your wedding venue sets the tone for your entire day. The first two things you need to consider in the beginning stages of wedding planning are your wedding style and guest list. This will begin to help you narrow down your options. You may be dreaming of an elevated ballroom in a city venue, or a cozy rustic barn. You may be more drawn to the coastal charm of waterfront venues, or your style may lean more modern and industrial.
As you narrow down your options, start to consider your budget, location, season, and venue services. You will need to make sure your venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list, whether you are hosting an intimate celebration or a large gathering. You may also prioritize being near airports and highways or need on-site accommodations. All of this will depend on the guests you have attending and if you live locally or not!
New England’s seasons are all beautiful, but can also present challenges and be highly unpredictable. Having a rain or backup plan is essential for any New England wedding, especially one taking place outdoors. Every venue will vary greatly with what’s included in the venue’s pricing, such as catering, rentals, or additional fees. You will need to evaluate the amenities offered, such as in-house catering, on-site accommodations, and logistics like setup and teardown times to ensure your day goes smoothly. Learn more details about how to select a venue. When touring any venue, these are important things to ask and consider.
Top Venues in New England
Here are some top venues to consider and some of my favorites across New England.
The State Room
Located atop a Boston skyscraper, The State Room is a modern venue with breathtaking views of the Boston skyline. This venue is ideal for couples seeking an elevated and formal setting. The State Room can accommodate weddings both small and large. It has floor-to-ceiling windows that create a dramatic backdrop for your ceremony and reception, perfect in any season.
With on-site catering provided by Longwood Venues, you can expect an exceptional culinary experience. Conveniently situated downtown, The State Room offers easy access to nearby accommodations for guests and is close to all airports and highways. Take a closer look into Jenni and Joe’s State Room wedding.
Boston Public Library
In the heart of Boston, The Boston Public Library is a historic and iconic venue that can accommodate up to 200 guests. Like the State Room, the library can host weddings big and small. With flexible spaces available you have lots of options with different styles and vibes. I recommend hosting a wedding here in the spring through fall weddings, to have access to the beautiful courtyard for your ceremony. The Boston Public Library offers exclusive catering through The Catered Affair. Many nearby luxury hotels provide accommodations for guests.
The Barn at Gibbet Hill
Located in central MA, The Barn at Gibbet Hill is a rustic, yet refined barn venue that hosts up to 220 guests. It is great in all seasons, featuring on-site farm-to-table catering and beautiful views of rolling hills. I love the covered patio space off the barn that is perfect for an outdoor cocktail hour. While there are no on-site accommodations, local hotels and inns are available for guests including the Groton Inn.
Olio
Olio is one of the newest venues on Boston’s North Shore. This historic theater was transformed into a modern, industrial space that accommodates up to 200 guests. It is suitable for year-round events and offers a blank canvas for truly personalized weddings. While the venue collaborates with a list of preferred caterers you can design your wedding vendor team completely from scratch.
Cliff House Maine
Sitting atop a cliff overlooking the ocean, The Cliff House is one of Maine’s top venues. This luxurious, coastal venue can host up to 250 guests. It's ideal for summer and fall weddings in the tent, with indoor options for winter. The venue provides on-site catering with customizable menus and luxury accommodations for guests on the property.
Willowdale Estate
Willowdale Estate, also located on Boston’s North Shore, is a premier venue with incredible gardens and grounds. If you love the look of an old-world estate with modern amenities, this is the perfect venue for you. I recommend a tented summer wedding here for a larger guest list or a smaller intimate wedding in the winter months. Catering, service, and equipment are included in your venue rental. There are no accommodations on the property, but many nearby.
The Gardens at Uncanoonuc Mountain
Located just outside of Manchester, NH The Gardens at Uncanoonuc Mountain is a hidden gem. It is ideal for up to 150 guests for spring through fall weddings. While there are no on-site accommodations, nearby hotels are available for guests. This is perfect for those looking for an outdoor tented wedding but with the amenities of a venue. The gardens and grounds are perfect for an outdoor summer ceremony.
Bradley Estate
The Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate in Canton, MA, is a historic wedding venue offering timeless elegance and natural beauty. This 90-acre property features a Georgian mansion, manicured gardens, and expansive lawns, creating a romantic setting for outdoor ceremonies and tented receptions. Managed by The Trustees of Reservations, the estate blends historic charm with modern amenities, providing a versatile venue just 30 minutes south of Boston.
MassMoca
Mass MoCA in North Adams, MA, is a unique wedding venue offering an industrial-chic aesthetic within one of the largest contemporary art museums in the country. The sprawling venue features soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and flexible event spaces, perfect for creating modern and artistic couples. With stunning galleries and a vibrant, artistic backdrop, it’s an ideal choice for couples looking to host a unique wedding in the Berkshires.
Nauticus Marina
Nauticus Marina is my favorite Cape Cod waterfront wedding venue! With convenient on-site accommodations for guests, this venue can host weddings with up to 200 guests. Typically guests will utilize the tented outdoor reception area that overlooks the water and the marina's lighthouse. This venue is perfect for those seeking a luxurious, nautical aesthetic.
Woodstock Inn & Respot
The Woodstock Inn & Resort is Vermont’s most luxurious wedding venue. With incredible food, service, and accommodations it is the perfect spot for a destination wedding. While it is great in any season, it is perfect for an outdoor tented wedding in the summer months and a ceremony outdoors in the garden or in the beautiful Rockefeller Room. Your guests will love enjoying all that Vermont has to offer like hiking, shopping, and restaurants. Check out Kristen and Jim’s wedding weekend at the Woodstock Inn.
Selecting the right venue is an important step in making your wedding day everything you’ve dreamed of. If you need help navigating the many options available in New England, LeslieJames Events is here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out to Kelly today to start planning your dream wedding!