Read about the best Philadelphia wedding venues, how this list can help you discover hidden gems and kickstart your planning.
As we enter a new year of love stories and proposals, let’s take a journey to recognize the most sought after wedding locations that stole the spotlight. From historic landmarks to botanical escapes, here are seven Philadelphia wedding venues that emerged on top:
The Top Philly Event Spaces That Took Center Stage This Year
Photo credit: Ryan Eda Photography/ONE North Broad
ONE North Broad
First, let’s take you to ONE North Broad located within the historic Masonic Temple in Center City. It offers a stunning backdrop for fine events featuring grand architecture, arched stained glass windows, and a gold trimmed ballroom. There is even a stately Benjamin Franklin statue for a true Philadelphia experience. Certainly, it has a sense of timeless charm.
The venue provides various spaces for ceremonies and receptions. For instance, there are six rooms to choose from to tie the knot, each with a different theme such as ancient Greece, Italian Renaissance or ancient Egypt. Next, mingle within large marble foyers downstairs for cocktail hour or choose its Foyer Under the Stars upstairs for up to 250 guests. However, its Main Ballroom can host up to 300.
Photo credit: Ryan Eda Photography/ONE North Broad
Customize your menu with an infusion of flavors that speak to you with its exclusive culinary partner Catering by Design.
Finally, you are able to enhance your special day with a docent who will engage your guests with knowledge about its history and art. You will find that the landmark’s classic design, grand staircases and ornate details create a sophisticated setting perfect for unique and memorable experiences.
Photo: Moshulu
Moshulu
The Moshulu is a popular, one of a kind wedding venue situated on a 1904 Tall Ship on the Delaware River in Penns Landing. It offers a breathtaking waterfront setting combining the romance of a historic sailing vessel with the elegance of a AAA 4 Diamond rated dining experience.
Photo credit: Moshulu
Couples may exchange vows on one of its multi-level decks. For example, there is the Bow Deck with views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Or, experience the open air Wheelhouse Deck with its towering masts above and 360 views of the city and waterfront.
Photo credit: Styled Pink Photography/The Moshulu
Next, imagine your reception in its new ballroom, The Stateroom, able to host up to 200 for a seated dinner. Or opt to dine and dance in its all seasons tented space. For example, its Mid Deck can allow for up to 85 for a seated meal with plenty of room for entertainment. However, it can host up to 250 for a cocktail style reception. In addition, more intimate gatherings can be held in its Portside PDR or Starboard private dining rooms.
Certainly, The Moshulu provides a memorable backdrop blending a nautical feel with city lights and historic skyline.
Photo credit: Redfield/Colonial Dames of PA
Colonial Dames
Next, Colonial Dames is a historic wedding venue in Center City dating to 1923. It is known for its classic charm and refined setting reflecting authentic Colonial colors. Weddings typically take place in its period decorated ballrooms or four season garden, providing a sense of old world sophistication.
Photo: Colonial Dames of PA
In fact, Colonial Dame’s Georgian architecture and antique furnishings provide a unique backdrop to celebrate. Upstairs, the ballroom can host up to 120 people whereas the first floor can allow for 10 to 50 among a few appointed rooms.
Lastly, Colonial Dames partners with numerous preferred caterers with diverse menus and price points.
Photo: Morris Arboretum
Morris Arboretum
A wedding at Morris Arboretum is often a nature filled experience full of roses, oak trees, meadows and sculpture. In fact, it even has a pond that is home to swans. The arboretum itself is known for its 92 acres of vibrant gardens and landscapes providing a peaceful backdrop for your special day.
Photo: Morris Arboretum
In fact, there are 10 distinct areas to choose from for your ceremony. Couples may choose indoor or outdoor event spaces. For example, say I DO among romantic blooms or opt to exchange vows on the brick terrace overlooking the meadow. Imagine cocktail hour under bistro lights and open skies. Then dine under the tent for a magical botanical setting.
Photo: Morris Arboretum
Finally, Morris Arboretum can host full weddings for up to 175 guests (155 with dancing) with your choice of five preferred caterers.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers an iconic yet unique setting for weddings. Couples may exchange vows at various locations within the museum that are romantic and inspirational. For example, there is The Great Stair Hall against the backdrop of Diana the Archer. Or choose to tie the knot in the sculpture garden by the reflecting pool. Toast on the balcony, dine among grand paintings and dance in the atrium. In fact, there many options from intimate receptions to grand galas.
Photo credit: Marie Labbancz Photography/Philadelphia Museum of Art
The museum’s classic architecture, breathtaking city views and world class art collections create an dazzling setting unlike any other. You’ll find it provides the perfect venue for those looking to weave art, culture and sophistication into their day. Finally, Philadelphia Museum of Art partners exclusively with Constellation Culinary, an elevated feast for the senses.
Artesano
Artesano Gallery is a hidden gem located in the Manayunk section of Philadelphia just under the bridge. Outside there is one of a kind ironwork. It is a contemporary wedding venue known for its modern industrial chic ambiance. Weddings at Artesano often take place in the sculpture garden, or Chapel filled with green vibrant plants.
Photo: Artesano
Then of course, there is the stylish and spacious Lower Gallery below street level. The gallery features high ceilings, exposed brick walls and artwork. Certainly, it adds a trendy artistic touch to celebrations. No experience is complete without a photo by the expansive live green plant wall.
Next, up the stairs awaits your reception in the Upper Gallery. Imagine your first dance on the balcony and a reception that rivals any fine dining experience with their inhouse executive chef.
Artesano offers a versatile space with industrial charm and artistry for couples opting for a non-traditional ballroom to dine, dance and say I DO.
Photo: Fairmount Park Horticulture Center
Fairmount Park Horticulture Center
Fairmount Park Horticulture Center is a unique Philadelphia wedding venue that draws couples to its magical setting. In fact, its greenhouse with lush greenery, flora and natural light is an inviting ceremony and reception space in all seasons. Outside, a reflecting pool and Cherry Bloosom trees set the scene for a romantic and inspirational backdrop.
Photo: Fairmount Park Horticulture Center
Whether your special day is held in the greenhouse, modern exhibition hall, arboretum or display gardens, it is sure to bring a multisensory experience. Finally, Fairmount Park Horticulture Center can host up to 300 guests for a reception with its exclusive caterer Constellation Culinary.
