10 best wedding venues in and around Washington, DC
If you're planning to get married in the nation's capital, you'll find there's no shortage of gorgeous wedding venues to choose from. Whether you fancy a stately mansion or downtown hotel in DC itself or prefer to head further afield for the sprawling vineyards and cosy inns of Virginia, there's something to suit every style of wedding.
How much does it cost to get married in Washington DC?
The average cost of weddings in Washington DC was $37,691 in 2021, compared to the US average of $27,063. So where do you start your venue search? We asked Virginia-based luxury wedding photographer and Fine Art Curation member David Abel to share his pick of the 10 best wedding venues in and around Washington, DC.
1. Anderson House
Anderson House is a neoclassical, historic mansion located along Washington DC's Embassy Row. It was completed in 1905 and served as the residence for Ambassador Larz Anderson and his wife, Isabel. The mansion offers grand, sweeping views as well as more intimate spaces, making it an exquisite setting for weddings of any size.
2. Andrew Mellon Auditorium
Designed by San Francisco architect Arthur Brown, Jr., and erected between 1932-1934, the grandeur of the exterior of the Andrew Mellon Auditorium is matched by its interior. Limestone-finished walls and piers define the space and frame views of the east and west staircases, the lobby, and the breathtaking auditorium beyond.
3. Perry Belmont House, Washington DC
With architecture reminiscent of 15th and 16th century French chateaus, Perry Belmont House is the ideal venue for a fairytale wedding. It's possibly the finest, intact example of a Beaux Arts style mansion in DC, with an interior boasting a double marble staircase, soaring 60ft vaulted ceiling and breathtaking crystal chandeliers.
4. Goodstone Inn, Middleburg
If you're looking for a more rural and understated (but no less beautiful) setting, be sure to check out Goodstone Inn. Located on the outskirts of the charming town of Middleburg, Virginia, the Goodstone Inn offers an entire wedding experience, from a welcome pool party and beautiful ceremony and reception spaces, to historic overnight accommodations and a farewell breakfast space, all 265 pastoral acres can be yours.
5. DAR Constitution Hall, DC
The headquarters of the Daughters of the American Revolution is a historic landmark in the heart of Washington DC, offering an array of elegant event spaces that will make your wedding truly memorable. At the DAR Constitution Hall, you can expect crystal chandeliers, antique furnishings and luxurious Beaux-Arts architecture.
6. Great Marsh Estate, Virginia
Just outside of Washington DC lies this restored Georgian mansion sitting in over 120 acres of lawn and woodland. Great Marsh Estate is the perfect country wedding venue, boasting rustic charm amid a beautifully natural setting.
7. Dover Hall, Virginia
Situated in the rolling hills of Manakin-Sabot, Dover Hall is a Tudor-style estate set amid a a lush and serene 55-acres, reminiscent of the English countryside. Dover Hall is replete with spacious getting-ready suites, an in-house culinary program, and picturesque indoor and outdoor areas.
8. The Hay-Adams, DC
Back in downtown DC, The Hay-Adams offers a historic location with a legacy of service and excellence. Overlooking the White House and originally designed and built as a residential hotel in the 1920s, The Hay-Adams of today offers a radiant event space for up to 250 guests with world-class catering.
9. Keswick Vineyards, Charlottesville
Nestled in a valley of rolling farmland and surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, the pristine grounds of Edgewood Estate and Keswick Vineyards are the perfect setting for an elegant yet relaxed vineyard wedding.
10. Morais Vineyards, Virginia
Another perfect choice for the couple who wants to escape the city for some tranquility and scenic views, Morais Vineyards has a romantic and impressive private event venue, known as the Palacio. With beautiful and spacious indoor spaces and many outdoor spots to relax and celebrate, Morais Vineyards has to be seen to be appreciated.
All photography by David Abel.
